Chapter 6: Habituation and Commencement
The rain is finally stopping outside. Casting a peaceful ambiance over the Heeler family's house. The rhythmic pitter-patter of raindrops is replaced by the gentle rustle of leaves as the sun begins to peek through the clouds, casting dappled patterns of light across the landscape. Inside, the tension eases, replaced by a sense of tranquility that permeates through the living room. The cessation of the rainstorm feels like a symbolic marker, heralding the opportunity for renewal and the promise of brighter days to come.
With after the heartfelt introductions, Bingo!Chara found herself enveloped in the warmth of the Heeler family's embrace, their genuine kindness easing the burden of her unfamiliarity. As they lingered in the living room, the silence stretched on, Bandit cleared his throat, breaking the tension that hung heavy in the air.
"Since you're new here, Bingo... or should we call you Chara?" Bandit began, his voice gentle yet curious. "It might help you get acquainted with our home if we show you around!."
Bingo!Chara's eyes widened in surprise, her confusion evident as she glanced around the living room. She hadn't expected such a gesture from the Heeler family, especially considering her current predicament.
Bingo!Chara nodded in agreement, grateful for the opportunity to explore her new surroundings. "Chara or Bingo is fine, and yes I love to." she replied softly, offering a tentative smile.
Chilli chimed in, her voice gentle yet inviting. "It'll give you a chance to get acquainted with our home," she added, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "And who knows?, maybe it'll help you feel more at ease." Bingo!Chara agreed, her curiosity piqued despite her lingering reservations.
The tour began in this cozy living room/TV room, where the Heeler family often gathered to spend quality time together. The walls were adorned with one sand-like artwork and family photos, each telling a story of cherished moments shared between Bandit, Chilli, and their childrens. The plush couches and a armchair invited relaxation, while the large windows bathed the room in warm, natural light. And a coffee table on beside the armchair, the orange carpet on the floor in the middle of the room and a television for watching with the family.
"This is where we spend most of our evenings, playing games, watching TV, or simply enjoying each other's company," Bandit explained, his voice filled with nostalgia as he glanced around the room.
Next, they ventured into the bustling heart of the house—the kitchen and dining room. The aroma of freshly baked cookies lingered in the air, a testament to Chilli's culinary skills. The countertops were cluttered with colorful ingredients and cooking utensils, evidence of the family's love for homemade meals.
"Here's the dining room." Chilli exclaimed with a proud smile on her face."It doesn't seem like there's much to do here, but we also like to do other activities besides eating here." as she gestured towards the stovetop and oven, she said "and that's where the kitchen is, and yeah there we can usually have breakfast there at the breakfast bar, cooking in there and there's a fridge. Hmm what's next... oh! Come on everyone, let's go to the backyard."
As they came down from the second floor and made their way through the sliding glass doors, the Heeler family stepped out into the backyard, a lush oasis of greenery and sunshine. The sound of birds chirping filled the air, while the gentle rustle of leaves provided a soothing backdrop to their conversation. The most notable feature of the backyard is a large royal poinciana tree with a bench around the base. The backyard also contains a sandbox, shed, trampoline, and tiled patio area.
"Our backyard is like our~ own little slice of paradise." Bluey commented, her eyes alight with excitement as she led Bingo! Chara around on the green grass. "We love playing games out here, or we just enjoying the outdoors."
As they finished touring the backyard, everyone then climbed the stairs to the porch area which was connected directly to the playroom. They Made their way to the playroom and saw that it was filled with an array of toys and featuring the iconic kiwi rug, the room exuded warmth and joy. Two walls opened onto the verandah, allowing natural light to flood the space and creating a seamless connection between indoor play and outdoor adventures. Bluey eagerly pointed out her favorite toys, while Bandit and Chilli reminisced about the countless hours spent playing with their daughters in this room.
As they stepped into the playroom, Bingo!Chara couldn't help but admire the colorful array of toys scattered across the floor. "Wow, there's so much to see here," she remarked, her eyes lighting up with curiosity.
Bluey grinned proudly, gesturing towards her favorite toys. "This is where I spend most of my time playing with my friends and family," she explained, excitement evident in her voice.
Bandit nodded in agreement, his gaze sweeping over the room fondly. "We've had countless adventures in here, haven't we?" he remarked, a hint of nostalgia coloring his tone.
Chilli smiled, her eyes shimmering with warmth. "Yes, this room holds soo many precious memories for us," she added, her voice filled with affection.
Bingo!Chara listened intently, her heart swelling with gratitude for the chance to share in the Heeler family's cherished memories. "It's a beautiful place," she commented, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "I can see why it's so special to all of you."
Next, they headed to the stairs to go up to the 2nd floor again then walked until they arrived and made a quick stop at the bathroom, a small yet essential room in any household. The tiled floors and pristine white fixtures gleamed under the soft glow of the overhead lights, a testament to Chilli's meticulous cleaning habits. Inside there is 1 bathtub, 1 shower and a mirror and sink which directly faces the bathroom entrance.
"It's not the most exciting room in the house, but it's definitely an important one (small laugh)," Bandit joked, his voice echoing in the tiled space. Everyone cringed a little by Bandit saying that.
Chilli: "(Sigh), Bandit... "
Continuing, they walked down the hall until they stopped in a room that looked like a study room. As Bingo!Chara stepped into the study, her eyes widened with intrigue at the sight of the shelves filled with books and the array of historical artifacts displayed around the room.
"This room is quite impressive. What do you use it for?" Bingo!Chara said, with an amazed face looking at all the objects in the room.
"Well, welcome to my study room, Chara. This is where I work from home. I'm an archaeologist, so I spend a lot of time researching and studying historical artifacts." Bandit explains, shows the contents of his work room.
Bingo!Chara, examining a shelf of books: "Archaeology?... That sounds fascinating. What kind of artifacts do you study?"
His tail then wagged after hearing her question. "I specialize in ancient civilizations and their artifacts. and those books contain a wealth of knowledge about past cultures and societies that I have researched in the past, and there are other books to help me with my work or for other things too. I also have a keen eye for digging and analyzing bones, which can reveal invaluable insights about the health, diet, and lifestyles of those who lived long ago." Bandit responds with a smile.
Bingo!Chara, eyes lingering on a map on the wall: "And what's that map for?"
Bandit explains, pointing to the map: "That's a map of an archaeological site I'm currently studying. It helps me visualize the layout and plan my excavations."
Bingo!Chara, nodding in understanding: "I'd love to hear more about your work sometime. It sounds like you have a fascinating job."
Bandit, with a grin: "I'd be happy to share more about it with you Chara. But for now, shall we continue the tour?"
Continuing their tour after exploring Bandit's study room, the Heeler family led Bingo!Chara to the sunroom, a glass-walled haven bathed in natural light. With its expansive windows and skylight, the sunroom offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, inviting the outdoors in. Bandit explained how this room served as a tranquil retreat, perfect for basking in the warmth of the sun's rays or stargazing on clear nights. As Bingo!Chara took in the breathtaking sights and soothing ambiance, she couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over her, grateful for the opportunity to immerse herself in the beauty of her new home.
"Wow, this sunroom is amazing. It feels so open and peaceful." Bingo!Chara remarks.
"Glad you like it, Chara. We spend a lot of time here, especially during sunny days. It's a great place to relax and unwind." Bandit says to her.
"Yeah, it's one of my favorite spots in the house. I love how the sunlight filters in through the glass walls and skylight."Chilli then adds to what Bandit said.
"And at night, we can even see the stars through the skylight! It's like having our own little observatory." Bluey exclaims.
"That sounds incredible. I can imagine it must be nice to just sit here and enjoy the view." Bingo!Chara responds, she thinks this place might become her favorite place some time later.
"Absolutely. Sometimes, it's the simple things like watching the clouds drift by or listening to the birds chirping that bring us the most joy." Bandit says, While arranging the messy books on the coffee table.
"And if you ever need a quiet place to reflect or just be alone with your thoughts, this room is perfect for that too." Chilli adds.
"Thank you all for showing me around. It's comforting to know there's such a peaceful space in the house." Bingo!Chara says in a polite manner and gesture, which might be considered strange in people's eyes because it doesn't represent a 5 year old little girl.
"Anytime, Chara! We're happy to have you here with us." Bluey responds, not noticing her polite attitude earlier.
As they stepped onto what looked like a balcony after exiting the sunroom, Bingo!Chara was greeted by a wooden deck adorned with potted plants, creating a cozy atmosphere. Bandit gestured towards the barbecue grill, where they often cooked meals together as a family. Nearby, a dining area was set up for outdoor meals, complete with a large table and long chairs.
"So Chara, this is our balcony." Bandit said with a genuine smile on his face. "We often come out here for barbecues and meals, and sometimes for events."
"wow, it's a lovely place." She said after looking around the balcony and seeing the view from the balcony ledge. "I can imagine how nice it must be to enjoy meals out here."
"Oh yes, we have some wonderful memories on this balcony. Like the time when we had a barbecue with Uncle Stripe and his family." Chilli says remembering that day.
"Yeah, hey remember when Bingo got all frustrated because everyone was only talking about the barbecue meat and not the salads?" Bandit tells, recalls the events of that day.
"That's. . . sounds like it was quite the scene." Bingo!Chara comments, try to guess it.
Bandit then nodded, confirming what she said."It was, Bingo got so upset and cried out, 'Isn't anyone going to mention the salads!' It was a funny moment. but it's also made us realize, how much She appreciates everything." Bandit says nostalgically.
"And after that, we all immediately praised the salads along with the barbecue meat. It made us appreciate Bingo even more." Chilli added, moving closer to Bandit and holding his palm with a longing smile as well.
"Yeah... we really miss her." Bluey says, her voice tinged with sadness.
BingoChara then says: "I'm sure she was a wonderful sister. It's moments like those that make family so special."
The atmosphere there suddenly dropped because of... that.
"It's moments like those... that make family is so special." Bandit repeats that sentence, his voice heavy with emotion.
Chilli then said. "it is seems like it, but it's also moments like those that make us miss Bingo even more."
Bluey: *tears welling up* "I-I'm sorry... It's all my fault. If I hadn't pushed her... IF I try to not be mad at her, (she then Inhale as hard as possible) IF I COULD CONTROL MY EMOTIONS BACK THEN!!!"
Bandit: *placing a comforting hand on Bluey's shoulder, then he hug Bluey tightly* "Bluey!, mate, it wasn't your fault. None of this is."
Chilli: *Joining the hug to calm her* "your dad right, Bluey. We all wish things had happened differently... but blaming yourself, is not good for you. and it won't bring her back either."
Bluey: *sniffling* "I just miss her so much..."
Bingo!Chara, who couldn't bear to see Bluey crying freely, tried to give her a advice. "I. . . understand losing someone you love is incredibly hard. But... we can't change what happened. We can only cherish the memories we have and support each other through the pain."
Bandit: *nodding, Then stroked Bluey's back.* "Chara's right. Let's try to focus on the good times we shared with Bingo."
Chilli: "You're both right. Thank you, Chara. And Bluey, please don't blame yourself. We're all in this together, as family."
Bluey: *hugging her family tightly* "I.. I'll try..."
then after the session of a tight family hug, Bandit then sigh then stand up and scratched his head. "How about we continue the tour? There's still more of the house to see."
Chilli: "That's a good idea. Let's show Chara the rest of rooms in our house."
After exploring... the balcony, Bandit and Chilli led Bingo!Chara to their bedroom. The room exuded warmth and comfort, with a king-sized bed as the centerpiece. Potted plants adorned the space, adding a touch of nature to the room. A dresser with a large mirror stood beside the door, reflecting the soft glow of the bedside lamps. Through the open door to the verandah, the gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of jacaranda flowers in bloom, creating a serene atmosphere.
Bandit: "And here we are, our bedroom."
Chilli: "It's where we come to unwind and relax after a long day."
Bingo!Chara: "It's lovely. The plants add a nice touch."
Bluey: "Mum and Dad love taking care of them. And sometimes me and Bingo help too."
Bandit: "You do, Bluey. And you're quite good at it too."
Chilli: "Remember when we bought that big mirror for the dresser, Bandit?"
Bandit: "How could I forget? It took us ages to find the perfect one."
Bingo!Chara: "It's nice to have those little moments to cherish."
They went to the verandah right next to Bandit and Chilli's bedroom.
Bandit: "So, what do you think of our verandah, Bing-ergh Chara?"
Bingo!Chara with Understanding smile: "It's okay Bandit, you and everyone can call me Bingo, so it doesn't look suspicious in public. Annd yeah it's lovely. I can imagine it's a nice spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors."
Chilli: "Yes, it's one of our favorite places to unwind, especially on warmer days."
Bluey: "yeah... Sometimes we have snacks out here, and Dad tells us stories about when he was younger."
Bingo!Chara: "That sounds wonderful. I bet there are a lot of memories tied to this place."
Bandit: "Oh, definitely. This verandah has seen its fair share of family gatherings and quiet moments alike."
Chilli: "It's a part of our home's history, just like every room inside."
Bingo!Chara: "I'm looking forward to seeing more of it. Thank you for showing me around."
Chilli: "you welcome, Chara. But enough about us. How are you feeling, Chara? Is there anything we can do to make you more comfortable?"
Bingo!Chara: "uhh, So far I feel more comfortable because you all helped me introduce the various rooms, thank you. And it looks like here also definitely has a lot of pleasant memories.
Bandit: "it is. But for now, why don't we finish the tour with one last stop?"
Chilli: "yeah I'm gonna make the lunch's after this tour, Would you like to see Bluey and Bingo's bedroom, Chara?"
Bingo!Chara: "I.. I like to. please, show me their room."
After their tour in Bandit and Chilli's bedroom, They led Bingo!Chara to Bluey and the real Bingo's bedroom. The room exuded a playful and cozy atmosphere, reflecting the personalities of the sisters who once shared it. As they entered, the leadlight and skylight bathed the room in natural light, casting a warm glow over the space. A ladder leaned against the ledge above the beds, inviting exploration and adventure. The room was adorned with colorful paper lanterns and mobiles, adding a whimsical touch to the decor. Bluey's watermelon-patterned rug added a pop of color to the floor, while a Himalayan salt lamp emitted a soft, soothing light. Outside the window, a plumeria tree bloomed, infusing the room with a sweet floral scent. A cupboard of toys stood against one wall, with marks denoting the heights of Bluey and Bingo over the years. A small toy box sat nearby, brimming with childhood treasures.Next there is what seems to be the doorway, leading to what seems to be the second verandah, a watermelon-shaped seat beckoned for cozy moments of contemplation. On the opposite wall, a low desk and shelf displayed books and drawings, one of then is like Bingo wearing a jetpack; her favorite thing, and another of Bluey with someone the same age as her. The room was a testament to the bond shared between the sisters, a sanctuary filled with cherished memories and endless possibilities.
Bandit: *with a proud smile in his face* "And last but not the least, this is where Bluey and Bingo used to sleep, and spend most of their time together."
Chilli: *nodding* "this room holds so many memories. We wanted you to see it, Chara."
Bingo!Chara: *Amazed* "wow.. It's beautiful. Thank you for showing me this room."
Bluey: *wipes away a tear* "I miss Bingo so much... By just standing in this room..."
Bingo!Chara: *puts a hand on Bluey's shoulder* "I know…, Bluey. She will always with you in spirit… and memories."
Chilli: *Small sigh* "Okay, why don't you two take a moment together? We'll be right in the kitchen if you need anything."
Bluey: *nods, grateful for the gesture* "Thanks, Mum."
Bingo!Chara: "Yeah, thank you Chilli."
Bandit and Chilli exit the room, leaving Bluey and Bingo!Chara alone*
Bluey: *sniffles* "Sorry, it's just... seeing her belongings again..."
Bingo!Chara: "It's okay, Bluey. I can't imagine how hard it must be for you."
Bluey: *sits on the edge of the her bed* "You really do understand, don't you?"
Bingo!Chara: *pauses, feeling a pang of empathy* "... Actually I do, Bluey. In my own way. I've experienced loss too, but in a different context."
Bluey: *surprised* "You have?"
Bingo!Chara: "Yeah, I had an adopted sibling once. Losing him was... tough."
Bluey: *softens* "I'm so sorry to hear that, Chara."
"Thanks, Bluey." Bingo!Chara said with a soft smile. "It's been a journey, but being here with you and your family... it's helping me heal, Even a little."
Bluey: *smiles warmly* "I'm glad you're here, Chara."
Bingo!Chara: ..., :) "Me too, Bluey."
Bluey: "Do you want to talk about him? Your adopted sibling, I mean."
Bingo!Chara: *shakes her head* "Not right now, if that's okay? I need a little time to process everything. Hmm actually, could I go to the sunroom for a bit? Just to think."
Bluey: *nods* "Of course, Chara. Take all the time you need. I'll see you at lunch."
Bingo!Chara: "Thanks, Bluey."
They exchange a brief hug before Bingo!Chara heads to the sunroom, needing a moment alone to collect her thoughts.
...
As Bingo!Chara heads to the sunroom, Bluey watches her go, feeling a pang of sadness and empathy for the who now inhabits her sister's body, and for her new friend's loss. Bluey knows all too well the ache of missing someone dear. And... She knows that sometimes, being alone with memories is the best way to process loss.
After a moment, Bluey decides to honor her sister's memory in their shared bedroom. Taking a deep breath, Bluey walks over slowly to her sister's bed and sits down, take and clutching a photo tightly in her hand. It's a selfie of her and Bingo, both of them beaming with joy. Bluey's winking and waving, while Bingo's hands are out of view, as if they're wrapped around her in a hug.
With tears welling up in her eyes, Bluey gazes at the photo, feeling a bittersweet ache in her heart. She speaks softly to the image of her sister, pouring out her thoughts and memories.
Bluey: *softly, to the photo* "Hey.. Bingo, now it's just you and me again... (Sigh). I-i miss you so much, sis."
She pauses, her voice trembling with emotion.
Bluey: "we meet someone this morning… I think maybe, she's a girl and her name is Chara, and she… she is the one in your body right now… but-but she's trying her best to understand and help me cope. I know you'd want me to try and give her a chance and… and i will, I promise."
Bluey takes a shaky breath, trying to steady her emotions.
Bluey: "But it's hard, you know?... Sometimes, I just wish you were here with me. I wish I could hear your laugh, feel your hug..."
Bluey: *sniffles* "I know Chara's not you... But I think she understands what it's like to lose someone-just like me. And Maybe... we can help each other through this, in our own way. But... But no one could ever replace you, sis. You were the best sister anyone could ask for."
Bluey takes a shaky breath again, her hand trembling slightly as she holds onto the photo tighter.
Bluey: *whispers* "But I'll always have our memories, won't I? Like this one... the day we took this selfie. You always knew how to make me smile, even when things were tough."
Bluey's voice wavers as she speaks, her words filled with longing and sadness.
Bluey: "I wish you were here to meet her, Bingo. I know you'd will like her. She's kind and understanding, just like you were. I... I hope you're watching over us, wherever you are. And I hope you're proud of me, of us, for trying to move forward."
Bluey's tears spill onto the photo as she holds it close to her heart, finding solace in the memories they shared.
"I love you, Bingo," she whispers, her voice barely above a whisper. "Always… and forever."
Bluey... settles back against the pillows, clutching the photo to her chest. In the quiet of the room, she finds solace in the memories of her beloved sister. She know that their bond will never fade... but it can't feel it again like they once did.
Alone in the sunroom, Bingo!Chara found herself lost in memories of her beloved adopted brother, Asriel. She remembered their adventures together, their shared laughter, and the unbreakable bond they had forged. As she sat In available seat there, surrounded by the warmth of the sun's rays, she couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness for the loss she had endured.
Closing her eyes, Bingo!Chara focused on the memories of Asriel, allowing herself to be swept away by the bittersweet nostalgia. She recalled their conversations, their dreams for the future, and the promise they had made to always be there for each other.
But amidst the memories, a determination stirred within Bingo!Chara—a determination to honor Asriel's memory, and find hope in their shared past. With a deep breath, she resolved to tap into the power she had once possessed in her previous world—the power to SAVE.
Focusing her thoughts, Bingo!Chara reached deep within herself, searching for the dormant energy that lay dormant within her soul. With each passing moment, she felt the power growing stronger, a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness that threatened to consume her.
And after a while she focused on trying to access her power in herself. then, it happened. With a surge of energy, Bingo!Chara felt the power of SAVE flow through her, filling her with a sense of purpose and determination. Opening her eyes, she gazed around the sunroom, her heart swelling with pride as she beheld the manifestation of her newfound ability.
In the corner of the room, a shimmering star-shaped savepoint appeared, its ethereal glow casting a soft light upon the surroundings. Only someone with the soul trait of DETERMINATION could see it, a testament to the strength and resilience of those who possessed it.
With a smile of satisfaction, Bingo!Chara approached the savepoint, reaching out to touch its surface. As her fingers made contact, she felt a surge of power course through her, a connection to the very fabric of time and space.
But amidst the joy of her newfound ability, Bingo!Chara couldn't shake the lingering worry that haunted her thoughts. She couldn't shake the memory of her previous world, where her savefile had been lost during the process of uniting her soul with Asriel to break the barrier.
The thought of losing her progress, of being unable to LOAD and undo the consequences of her actions, filled Bingo!Chara with dread. She couldn't bear the idea of history repeating itself, of losing someone she loved because she couldn't use LOAD to save them in time.
And so, with a heavy sigh, She voiced her concerns aloud, her voice tinged with frustration and anxiety.
"I hope this time… the savefile will not be lost again," she murmured to herself, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "And I hope... I hope that the same incident won't repeat itself in this new world, the same incident that led to... to someone I love is dying and being unable to LOAD because there was no savefile... won't happen again… in this world."
With a sigh, Bingo!Chara made a silent vow to herself. She would do everything in her power to ensure that her savefile remained intact, that she could protect her loved ones, and that history would not repeat itself in this new world. With Determination burning in her soul, Bingo!Chara resolved to forge a new path—one filled with hope, courage, and the unwavering determination to shape her own destiny.
Being Bingo!Chara are still remained in the sunroom, bathed in the soft glow of the savepoint in front of her, she felt a wave of remorse wash over her. With a heavy heart, she began to speak, her voice soft yet filled with sorrow.
"Asriel, I'm so sorry... for everything." she whispered, her words carrying the weight of guilt. "I'm sorry for the pain I caused you, for the burden I placed upon you. I know now that my actions were selfish back then, that my desire to free the monsters, are led to tragedy... to both of us, to our family. I never meant for any of this to happen, for you to suffer because of me."
She paused, allowing the memories of their shared past to flood her mind. She remembered the day they had enacted their ill-fated plan, the weight of their shared burden pressing down upon them.
"I wish I had seen your hesitation, Asriel. I wish I had listened to your doubts, instead of forging ahead recklessly. Maybe then... maybe then things would have turned out differently."
Bingo!Chara's voice trembled with emotion as she recalled the final moments of their past life together, the pain of their shared fate still fresh in her mind.
"But... even in the face of death, you showed compassion, Asriel. You carried my body home, despite the danger it posed to you. And when the villagers attacked, you refused to fight back. Your kindness, your innocence... it cost you everything."
The quiet and only lit by sunlight from the room and the glow from her savepoint, she continued.
"I wish I could go back... change what happened," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I can't. All I can do now is try to make things right in this new world, to honor your memory and the bond we shared at that time."
She bowed her head, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.
"I miss you, Asriel," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "And I don't know whether my actions in this world will have a bad impact on the people I know and care and... People that i will meet in the future."
"I... I don't know what will happen next, but..." She wiped her eyes which were slowly flowing with tears and said
"But... I promise, Asriel, I'll do everything in my power to make things right in this new world. I'll use the power of SAVE to protect those I love, to ensure that no one else suffers because of me. And... and I'll never forget the sacrifice you made for me, for all of Monsters in the underground. Rest in peace, my dear brother… my very best friends. I will always carry your memory in me… forever."
With those words hanging in the air, Bingo!Chara remained in the sunroom, her thoughts filled with memories of her beloved brother and a determination to forge a new path—one guided by love, forgiveness, and the hope of redemption.