Chapter 4 - The Dreemurrs
6:30 PM.
The journey back to the Citadel felt like a long one to Asgore. Over and over again would his mind replay the scenario of trying to talk to Toriel about letting Drake stay inside of their home. It's too dangerous for Drake to be out in the open like this and he couldn't just keep him in the Inn. He's already asked enough of Phobane for one day and he'd like to have Drake somewhere safe. Asgore glanced up at the palace walls where they would come up into view. The grand Citadel Palace of the Dreemurrs. A palace that had been in place for hundreds of years. It's a magnificent size and build for New Home. More monsters could fit inside this city which meant that Asgore didn't have to worry about population size for a while until they had to try and dig out the mountain again.
That's all they could do, right? Keep expanding and expanding. A part of Asgore worried one day they'd dig out the mountain so much that there would be no place to explore or excavate. No. He can't think like that. What happens in the future will happen when it does. For now, he just had to worry about one thing at a time. Or multiple things if one could say that.
Focus on Toriel and Asriel first. Then, could Asgore get Drake back here alive and in one piece. He couldn't bring Drake out in the open which a disguise would probably have to be in order. If he wouldn't find one, then he'd probably have to hide Drake inside of his cape whilst carrying him. Those are his only two options as of right now to get Drake here safely. The Citadel is a place where monsters could live their lives peacefully.
New Home. Monsters here wouldn't be ready to see King Asgore with a human child as of yet. So; this would have to be a process. Step by step to let monsters become more used to seeing Drake here. All Drake needs now is some good rest. In a comfortable bed where he could feel safe enough to sleep. Unlocking the palace gates with a special silver key with the Deltarune symbol inscribed into the key. Turning the key and unlocking the gates, he would enter into it and close the gates behind him smiling warmly at the royal guard positioned in front of the castle.
"Good evening, gentlemen. I'm afraid my stay will be short as I will be leaving again shortly." He would tell the guards with a wave of a goodbye, and enters into the palace. Here he is again. Not two hours ago he was standing in the middle of the corridors sipping on warm golden-flower tea. Enjoying the sunset evening, only for it to become dark enough for the torches of the halls to be lit up in unison.
They were all burning the same way. Strangely even dancing the same way, as if. Magic is very potent and powerful here. It's clear to Asgore that it is very late. And he couldn't stay unfortunately as he would have to go back out soon once this errand is done. Asgore had hoped that it would work out. It had to. Fate needed to be on his side right now. The walls were aligned in marble and stone. This portion of the castle had been standing for centuries. It all looked so majestic for a person who might come here. But, for Asgore? It's a lot. Sure; the scenery is nice. But it doesn't really represent who he truly is. As Asgore.
Royal Guards would be all about the place. Monster caretakers as well. There's a place for everyone here in the palace. Asgore always saw the better of people whenever he hired them into the care of the palace. It didn't matter what species or kind of monster they were. Every one deserved a second chance. There is plenty to go around in the castle. They all waved and greeted each other at Asgore. Some smiled his way. Everyone here respected Asgore. They all owe him their lives because of how much he's given to the Underground and how much he's sacrificed for them. They all owe it to him. Asgore too, owed them for giving him the chance to make up for his own wrong doings. For everything that the war cost them.
Families. Friends. Homes. Hope. It all weighed down on Asgore. A part of him couldn't forgive himself for what had happened. Yet; they all reassured him that it wasn't his fault the way things happened. If Asgore had done nothing, the humans would've surely wiped them out sooner. Or even taken their home and done something worse. They all had hopes for Asgore that he'd figure something out. And by all means, Asgore will.
Asgore follows the carpet path back towards the section of the castle only accessible to some of the closer guards. This section of the castle is the Dreemurr's home. A place where they call didn't have to worry about the palace or the royal outlook they live in. It was just… simple life. Once Asgore hung up the cape, he could be just Asgore. That's all that he ever wanted in life is to just be him and not this constant state of authority. He's happy to be king and helping monsters, don't get him wrong. But the unbearable weight and stress of it all sometimes made it hard to just be a family man too. He sometimes gets worried that he isn't around his child enough. Asriel's been through a lot these last two years, and Asgore hoped he wasn't pressuring his son either. Asgore loved his son to death and wanted to make sure he had a say in all this too. Asgore would find a way. He would.
The walls started to become less shiny and marble filled and more colorful from where he's going. The walls were painted a gentle purple hue. Like the ones in Old Home. Flowers covering the ground on the sides of the floor making a 'red carpet' towards the home. New Home wasn't too far away from where Asgore worked within the castle. That way if his family needed him at any time, then they could come get him just a walk away from the Dreemurr section of the palace. Memories of this place flooded in. Asriel was born here. The first time he cried. The first time he lost a baby tooth. His birthdays whenever they happened. Asgore and Toriel spoiled their son, and they didn't mind at all. He deserved to be happy here in New Home. A fountain spilling water out gently from the top and into the bottom of the cone shaped marble art piece. The top is a star shaped object with the tip of the star spewing out the water and the two sides of it doing the same. The fountain on the middle reads:
"Welcome To The Dreemurr Residence."
He sighs in bliss. Home sweet home. The home itself is a nice, yet quaint home. Something you'd only see in those human fairy tales he used to read to Asriel when he was much smaller before bedtime. He still reads to Asriel at night of course if he asks for it. But, those didn't usually happen as much anymore. He's a growing boy and suppose that they didn't interest him as much anymore. Still, the memories were a welcome one. The home is a tan color as a paint with red and golden flowers tucked nicely against the front and sides of the home to give it more… 'homely' feel to it. A couple ornaments strewn here and there. It's moderately sized. Two stories. They only needed upstairs and downstairs.
The childrens rooms were upstairs while the living room and kitchen were downstairs. Bathrooms also upstairs as well. The house looked like it was a singular story house from the outside. But, like a human quote once said: 'It's bigger on the inside.' There's a welcome mat on the front of the door too. There's a noticeable light coming in from the inside where its yellow bulbs made out a shadow inside of the home. A small one. It could only mean one thing.
The door cracked open all of a sudden and peering out is a small, young goat monster whose appearance is that of a smaller himself as if. Asriel. His son. Wearing the same striped shirt as usual. He always loved those sweaters and shirts. It just suited his personality so well. His smile said it all. Those little black pupils shimmering in excitement of his father finally coming home. Usually Asgore was done with his duties by 5:00 PM. But. it's nearing 7:00 PM now. And Asgore felt bad about keeping his son waiting. He's here now and he would at least stay a little while before heading back. Asriel leaving the door open would rush outside to greet his father where a laughing embrace comforted Asgore's soul hugging his father tightly, smiling widely. He's missed him. Everyday when he's on duty, he thought of his wife and son. Fighting for them. Keeping them happy. This simple moment always gave him the courage to keep going.
"Dad! You're finally home! I really, really missed you!" Asriel gleefully said, looking up to him. Asriel is still young, but he knows his father works hard to keep him happy too. He's always happy to see him come home to just be with him and play with him! Toriel had her own duties as queen too of course, but she's taken a slight step back to help raise Asriel more as Asgore fulfilled his duties as king of the Underground.
They switched positions every so often to make sure one helped the other with the role of Asriel. Few days will be for Asgore, and the other few days will be for Toriel. Before the war, and during it… Toriel had a more hands on approach with the duties. If her presence is truly required, then she will go. Otherwise, her duties were to Asriel and tending to the home. Asgore knows it wasn't easy either, but, he still had to play the role of king JUST a little bit longer. He laughed and smiled still. Hugging his son tightly against his chest where their laughter mixed into the air happily.
"Well, howdy to you too, Asriel. I missed you too, son!" Asgore would reply and glance down at his precious treasure. He always saw himself in Asriel. He took a lot from his mother and father. Their personalities. Their protective nature. Their golden-hearted sweetness. Asgore is proud to have Asriel. He rubbed the fluff on the top of his head playfully. Asriel's snorting giggles began to play. A sound that always cheered up Asgore whenever things felt hard.
"Daddd! You're messing up my fluff!" He laughs out, and tries to squirm from the playful little 'noogie' of Asgore. Of course, he wouldn't ever want to mess up his special fluff! So, he lets him go. An ever lingering yet bittersweet smile left on his face. He just wanted to stay home with his son tonight. To make sure that he didn't think his dad didn't want anything to do with his family or that his duties were more important. He'd never think that or take priority in his duty over his family. But, he had to do it just a little bit longer. Asgore would sigh happily.
"My apologies, son. I wouldn't want to mess up that handsome head of yours." He would tease his son and make Asriel fluster bashfully.
"Heh heh.. Dadd.." Asriel groaned. Still in a playful sense. Asgore chuckled following it.
"Hey dad?" Asriel began looking up to him where he raised a brow curiously. "How come you came home so late? You're usually never home late.." Asriel had a right to know. Asgore couldn't keep it from his son. But, he would tell him in a little while. Asgore frowned a bit.
"I'm sorry, son. I know I must've worried you. I had something very important that needed my help. I had to leave the castle for a little while. Unfortunately I won't be able to stay. I will have to leave again soon."
"Awww… why dad? You're coming home tonight, right? Mom made a special dinner for us.."
Asgore smiled again at this reasoning. It's such a warm innocence that he wished to protect. But, it is still an important reason. "I will be coming home tonight, I promise. It's still something that needs my attention. How about I tuck you in personally tonight and I'll read you a story?"
"Hmmm.. okay! That sounds good." Asriel agreed. Which left a great big smile on Asgore's expression.
"Alright then, it's settled. After dinner tonight, I'll read a story of your choosing. That way it's fair." Asriel giggled.
"You always let me choose the story!"
"Hmmm, then I'll surprise us." Asgore replied, patting his son's head.
"Okay! I can't wait, hehe!" Asriel agreed hugging his father again.
"Alright, alright. I won't keep you too long." He would state to Asriel looking up and noticing another figure smiling in happiness at him. Toriel would lean against the door, seeming to enjoy this moment between Asgore and Asriel. She too had been missing him. She had heard earlier from the royal guard that Asgore would return late. And here he is.
Nearly two hours late coming home. She hoped he had a good reason. But, if the guard said it were urgent then she supposes she cannot put fault to him. She's just glad he's home now. Toriel and Asgore exchanged glances at one another.
"Please come inside and wash up before dinner, dear." Toriel would gently advise to her son where Asriel waved back.
"Okay! Coming!" He exclaimed back.
A wave from Asgore. "Alright. Head back inside, son. I'll be with you shortly. I just need to talk to your mother about something." He promises and would gently stand up from where he was as Asriel would rush back over to Toriel and goes back into the house to wash his paws before dinner since it's a common courtesy within the Underground to do such a thing since Asriel had been playing around the gardens earlier.
Toriel approached and would hold Asgore's hand pressing a soft kiss against the others lips. "I'm glad to see you home safe and sound. You had me worried, Asgore." She would speak softly as if to make sure they didn't speak too loud. Asgore knows that he cannot excuse himself from coming back to them in an untimely manner. But, he knows he has to make this conversation happen. Asgore sighs.
"I am sorry for keeping you both waiting for so long. I know this was not in my intention, but something has come up that is important. I… need to speak to you about something. This matter involves all of us." He'd begin. Toriel's expression changed to something more concerned. Is this why Asgore was so late? She doesn't really know what's going on as she is home most of the day. But, Asgore always made sure to fill her in on anything that had happened. As she is also still queen as well, so whatever happens in the Underground is her responsibility too.
Asgore would close the door behind them, leading Toriel towards their rooms where they could speak privately. The home inside is just as cozy and warm as it looked like on the outside. The floors are made of wood and a couple carpets lie about here and there. The atmosphere is just perfect. A place fit for a family to grow up in. Although, sometimes if it were just as important, there would be a few visitors who came in every now and then. Asgore knows there isn't turning back now that he's home and with Toriel. A part of his being is despising having to bring this up to Toriel. Leaving the door cracked a bit where the two sat down.
"I am not sure where to begin with this, Tori. It is a very hard thing to grasp even for myself. I am not the best at coming outright with saying things, so, I will just say it. Please just listen to what I have to say and.. I will understand if this is a lot to take in." Asgore began. Toriel nodded in understanding. This must have something to do with the Underground if it takes Asgore this much to try and say what's on his mind. It's making Toriel nervous to see Asgore like this. This side of him hasn't been seen in a long time. Asgore is always the type to make others smile and laugh and feel like they could be safe around him. But, it seemed something was troubling Asgore so much so that it had to be brought back to Toriel for guidance and help.
She would always be here for him. They'd discuss it and work through it. Like they always had and will. Asgore continued.
"...There was a report earlier this afternoon in the Illustrious Sector. More specifically in Clearport. There… was a human who fell into Clearport." Asgore stated holding onto Toriel's paws as a means for comfort and guidance. They tightened. Toriel's expression said it all. Shock. Complete and utter shock. She couldn't believe what she's hearing. Another human? How is that possible? Humans were incredibly rare to the Underground! And, she knows it's soon the anniversary of her fall too. Toriel stunned in silence, stared at Asgore's paws. A loss for words. She couldn't believe it. Another human. A second one too. In just two years. This felt like this had to be some sort of sick joke played on her by the universe. Her expression became a bit sadder. This is why Asgore was late. To deal with a human? A lump is swallowed into her throat. She felt her heart slowly becoming undone.
She spent the last five years trying to move on, and another human came along. She couldn't go through this again. But she did say she would hear Asgore out. Her eyes focus back onto Asgore's. And it pained his own heart to see her like this.
"A-Asgore.. It.. it can't be.." She didn't want to believe it. And a part of her couldn't believe it. But the way Asgore is speaking right now is nothing but the truth. In her own heart she knew.
"Oh, Tori.. I am so sorry. I know this isn't what you wanted to hear. But, I found the human isn't only just a human, but they are a small one as well. His name is Drake. Monsters said he came from a hole in the ceiling in Clearport which supposedly wasn't there before. Our guards in Clearport are still looking into it to see if anything changes or not. But, I won't get another report until tomorrow afternoon." Asgore continued. "He was in Clearport for about an hour before I arrived. He was injured with a misplaced leg and soaking wet when I found him. Sentry Undyne said he 'tried to take a swim'. I am unsure what she meant by that, but my only guess is that he tried to escape from the monsters crowding him and found the Clearport river as the only means of escape. That might've explained why he was wet." Toriel could only picture it in her mind about this human. A small human. A child. She couldn't have imagined how scared he must've felt seeing something such as monsters for the first time.
Asgore began to soothingly rub his thumbs between her knuckles. "That is the reason I am late coming home to you both. I guided the human away from Clearport where they are safe in Yeshfiah at the moment. I… convinced Phobane to let him stay there for now. But, I cannot leave him there. I did not know what to do or where else to take him. Phobane didn't make this easy on me either. He wants the human gone by the time I return." She knew of Yesfiah. The town before Hotlands. She's been there only a couple times, but she doesn't remember a whole lot of it. But, when Asgore mentioned Phobane, even she was surprised by the fact that Asgore brought the human to him out of all monsters.
Phobane. Toriel knew of him in a bit of his younger years. Very loyal and always said what was on his mind.
Even when it got him into trouble at times. Toriel couldn't imagine how Asgore convinced someone as Phobane to let a human stay there when Phobane lost so much to the humans. But, she didn't want to know. She didn't want to think of what Phobane was going through at that moment when Asgore left the human there. She wasn't as close to Phobane as Asgore was, but even she could understand what Phobane must've thought and felt at the time. Her brows furrowed trying to process this all. Toriel wasn't afraid to let her mind unfiltered at times as she is very through into what she believed in. But even this is a lot on her.
"Asgore.. I hope you are not suggesting what I think you're suggesting." Toriel knew how she felt about this and so did Asgore. She could not POSSIBLY think of what Asriel would think too. She cannot speak for Asriel, but with the anniversary of Chara's fall approaching next month… this would certainly also be hard on him too. Toriel let go of Asgore's hands and began to stand up looking up at the window staring off into the 'stars' outside.
The twinkling of crystals in the night. She didn't want to fathom the idea of bringing another human to this household. She knows in her heart she couldn't just leave the human child exposed to the world in the Underground. But this is a decision she just cannot possibly make easy! Her mind wandered back to the day when they all first met Chara. How happy Asriel was to meet her. How happy they all were. How everything felt like it was just at the right place. Toriel felt tears well up from just thinking about her. She missed her adopted daughter very much. Asgore could notice that Toriel is starting to become upset, where he joins behind her wrapping his arms around her stomach to hold her close in her state.
"I'm sorry, Tori. I don't know what else I can do with young Drake. Humans are our responsibility."
"I do not believe so. I.. not after her death." Toriel felt scared to open her heart to another human, but this would be against her own morals to send a human to his death. Her paw pressed against her snout trying to quell the tears that wanted to fall. She is going to cry, she knows she is.
"..." Asgore would remain silent trying to let her process it. Old wounds opening back up between them both. He couldn't imagine talking about this with Asriel who loved Chara with all his heart.
"Is.. is it not possible we cannot just send him back through the barrier? He would be far off better with his own kind, Asgore.." Toriel suggested. Even Asgore had thought of this. But, there are some things that even Asgore didn't know. The barrier is one of them for now. He would glance outside as well with her, taking in the moment. Trying to find the word to say to her that might make her reconsider.
"I.. have thought of this too, Toriel. I believed that was the right decision at the moment too. However, I feel it in my bones and in my soul that there's something wrong. That if we were to send him off; than it would be the same as sending him to his death.
There's just so much we don't know about the barrier. Humans had created it, yes.. But a human child? I do not know how his soul would react to it." Asgore had a point. Toriel doesn't know much about the barrier either besides for the fact it's very powerful and unknown magic that their royal scientists are trying to get around that's keeping them here. Them all here. Silent tears fall thinking of Chara. How afraid she must've been for her death. And having to watch for nearly two months of her bedridden and dying. To know she wasn't able to do anything except to watch her die. Toriel is afraid of moving on. Chara deserved better than that! Asgore noticed Toriel shaking a little bit from her crying pressing his cheek against her temple swaying a little bit to soothe her.
"I can't go through this again, Asgore. I-I'm afraid of him going through the same fate." Toriel answered.
Asgore's own emotions started to well up. He knows what she meant by that. "I miss her too, Toriel. I always think about her every day. But, you have my promise that he won't. He'll be safe here. Until he's ready to go through the barrier.. We can't just abandon him at the barrier. This wouldn't be right." Again, Asgore had a point. Toriel didn't want to leave him in a world where he didn't know anyone or didn't know where to go. Toriel knows too in her own soul that Asriel deserved to be happy too. She knows how lonely Asriel can be without friends and monsters his age.
There weren't too many or many that Asriel generally got along with. Sometimes he played with Gaster's children, but even Asriel has expressed they didn't seem to really want anything to do with Asriel at the time. Toriel takes a shuddered inhale to calm herself down. Wiping away the tears with her thumb. She wants to see this human first. This human needed them more than Toriel would like to admit. Asgore's been with the human this far. So; there's no turning back anyway. Asgore is right. No matter how much Toriel wanted to deny it, this is now their responsibility as queen and king of the Underground. She finally nods.
"Okay.." She mustered out. "I'll only agree to this if Asriel is okay with it too. We cannot just force our decision onto him either." Asgore nodded back.
"I know, Tori. I had planned to talk to him after our discussion. It is something that should involve him too. I will let him decide for himself. This is up to him." Asgore reassured pressing a kiss against her cheek. "I'm sorry this had to be what it came to." Toriel sighs and chuckles pitifully.
"No, Asgore. You did the right thing. This is just hard on everyone as it is and you did what you could under the circumstances. But, please make sure that Drake comes here safely. I need to tend to dinner. Please talk with Asriel. I'm sure he needs his father in this moment more than ever." Toriel pressed her head against his chest. "Please be careful about this, Gorey. We can't be sure how monsters will react to this news once it's time."
Asgore knows this much. This will be a huge shock to everyone in the Capital. They all knew of Chara. Who she was. But, her death affected them greatly.
The Capital might be the only place that is very accepting of humans due to them having loved Chara. They just… needed to adjust to Drake's presence too. "I will. I promise. I will return soon."
"Goodbye, Asgore. Dinner will be here for you when you return. I'll be sure to heat it up for you."
"Thank you, Tori. I love you."
"I love you too, Gorey." Asgore exhales and would press another kiss against her lips where he would depart for the kitchen where he would talk with Asriel. Toriel just needed a moment right now to contemplate everything. Asgore exits the room pressing a hand against his snout. Toriel wasn't easy, neither would Asriel be. If it's one thing that truly mattered in this world and the Underground is Asriel's opinion of him. He's afraid of feeling like he'd be forcing this decision onto Asriel. But, Asriel had a right to say what he felt in the matter.
Asgore would understand if Asriel wasn't comfortable yet. He'd find another way. Another place to keep Drake. He would find a way! He.. he promised Drake he'd find a way. Asriel is sitting at the kitchen table kicking at his legs patiently looking at the special made meal that awaited him and his family. Seeming to grow hungry at the scent. The clock. It read 6:50 PM.. Asgore should be back by the time that it's dinner time for him. The scent sure is delicious. He sits down next to Asriel smiling warmly.
"Heya, kiddo. Your mom cook us up something delicious?" He asks playfully where he glanced at the oven reading ten more minutes for dinner to be done. Asriel glanced up grinning happily.
"Yep! Mom says that it's… lasagna? I think? I don't know what's in it, but I SURE can smell it being cheesy! Hehe!" Asriel heard from Toriel it's a certain new recipe that she wanted to try out. She said it's a surprise. But he's heard Toriel reading out the recipe instructions for the meal, so he heard what it's called. Other than that, he didn't know much else. Asriel is super excited to try it out! He thinks it's going to be very delicious. Toriel is always trying her hand at new things to make here and there. Asgore is glad he's excited.
"I'm going to be super jealous that you and your mom get to eat it first." Asgore replied back, just wanting to have a moment with his son before a serious discussion. Asriel giggled.
"Aww, don't worry. I won't eat it all, I promise!" He glanced back at the oven. 6:51 PM. Asgore knows he's just buying time he doesn't have. He can't avoid this discussion. He then turns his attention back to his larger paws on the table. He just needed to get this out of the way.
"Thanks, kiddo. I'll be sure to remember that. But, I wanted to ask you something.. And I understand if you won't be comfortable with it. It's no pressure if you're not okay with it. Just say the word and I'll keep it in mind. How would you feel… about someone staying with us for a little while?" Asriel turned to his dad, seeming a little confused at the context.
"Uhm.. I mean, I wouldn't mind. Is it a friend?" Asriel asks curiously. Where Asgore would semi shake his hand in a yes and no way.
"Sort of. They're someone that… I met recently that needs somewhere safe to stay. They're.." He grimaced a bit.. "..Human.." Asriel blinked for a moment upon those words leaving his dad's mouth. Shifting back and looking at the table nervously.
"..Oh.." Is all he could say at that moment. Asriel didn't expect his dad to say that at all. Asriel seemed to think a little bit. Trying to find something to say. "Well.. uhm.. A-are they nice, dad?" Asriel asks softly, turning his attention back to Asgore. Asgore supposed that it's hard for Asriel to process entirely too. Asriel seemed to think back on the past too. Maybe he's afraid of history repeating itself. To have a human as a best friend only to lose them in such a short time. Asriel might've been afraid of saying no. Asriel does have a hard time saying no and Asgore knows this. So, he placed a hand onto his son's hand furrowing his brows in concern. He wanted Asriel to be honest with him. He didn't want him to feel forced as Asgore had thought Asriel is pressured to say yes.
"They're a very nice human, I assure you. His name is Drake. He's even your age too. I think you'd like him.. But.. Asriel. Please, tell me what you're really thinking about.." He offered and let Asriel squeeze his hand. Asriel's expression changed more. Seeming to exhale a breath.
"I just… I'm really scared that.. They're gonna.. Y'know.. Go away too." Asriel said to Asgore, staring back at the table. Silence filled the air for a few minutes. Asgore letting Asriel have all the time he needed to process his thoughts. Asriel wanted to agree, but there's just something that's holding him back from agreeing entirely. Asgore could probably tell where this is going, as Asriel wasn't sure what to say next.
"It's about Chara, isn't it?" Asgore suggested as Asriel hummed with a nod with his expression tightening. "Oh, Asriel.." Asgore would pull his son close to him for a soft yet good hug to let Asriel express how he felt. The smaller arms wrapping around him, tears welling up. "I promise, Chara won't ever be replaced or forgotten. She's always going to be in our hearts and memories as long as we live, okay? She'd surely want us to be happy and remember the happy times too." He'd tell Asriel soothing his back.
"I'm sorry, dad. I miss her." His voice quivered in a soft sob. Tears rolled down his face slowly.
"I know you do, Asriel. Me and your mother miss her dearly too. We won't ever forget her. We're always going to think about Chara no matter what. That's what family do. They remember the important people in our lives." He would smile softly down to him using a thumb to help wipe away some of the free flowing tears. "You're a good kid, Asriel. It was never your fault what happened back then. You gave Chara the happiness to live a life she didn't have before. And I think that's something special to consider." Asgore rubbed his own eyes.
"But… I didn't fulfill her promise. I-I.. I said I would and then.. I didn't. She at least would have a place where she could rest.." He sniffled, hugging closer to Asgore. That thought plagued him. The what ifs. The idea of crossing the barrier to place her body into the patch of flowers she loved before she left her village. Asriel said he would do it for Chara. Because that's what best friends did, right? They did things for each other. And in those last moments of Chara's… he chickened out because he was scared of what to do with her body or even know where to take it.
He saw her soul.. The red determination of her soul. It was floating there, just mere inches away from him to absorb, and Chara never mentioned that at all. She did say to take her soul, but he didn't know how. Or, maybe he was too scared to take it thinking that it would be inside of him forever. That he wouldn't be Asriel anymore. He felt like he lied to her. His closest and only friend, and he lied to her at her deathbed. How could he ever forgive himself for that? For… for being a coward? It wasn't easy to get over that. Asriel just needed to forgive himself for that.
Asgore would place his hands onto his sons shoulders. "You are forgiven for that. You always have been, my son. Chara loved you to the ends of the Earth. And she would want you to forgive yourself for being safe." Asgore knew of what Chara's request was, and he is SO very glad that Asriel made the right choice to stay in the Underground instead of foolishly going out to the surface. Humans would have killed him, no doubt. They were here for a reason. "Please. You must forgive yourself, okay?" Asgore would be there for his son every step of the way. Asriel sniffled another breath.
"O-Okay.." He'd reply sniffling when he'd closed his eyes for a moment. Things haven't been easy, and Asriel would like to forgive himself. He's only nine after all. It's harder on him to process emotional things such as the death of a loved one. But… Chara would want him to be happy, right? Asriel looked up. "Dad?"
"Yes, Asriel?"
"Do you think.. Could me and Drake be friends?" Asriel asked, looking up to Asgore as if needing some sort of consolation. Asgore would sigh a breath of contentment and nodded.
"I think Drake would like that very much." He responded with certainty. He glanced back at the clock. 7:03 PM. It's going to be a walk from here to Hotlands again. It's been two hours since he left Drake alone at the Starry Bound Inn. He needed to get going soon. But, before he did that, Asgore would once again hug his son. "I promise, it'll be okay. He just needs a place to feel safe at." Asriel hugged his dad back one more time and rubbed his eyes.
"Okay, dad. I'll.. I'll make sure that he likes it here!" He cheered up a bit now. Which Asgore is grateful for.
"Thank you, Asriel. I need to go back out to get Drake. I'll be back soon. I'll be sure to give you that story as I mentioned earlier. I should be back before you're in bed."
Asriel would nod. "Okay! I'll see you in a bit?" He asked so that way he remembered to know when Asgore got back!
"Yep. In a bit. I'll see you soon." With that he would get up from where he was and begin to make the journey back to Hotlands to acquire the human he left behind. He just hoped that Drake would still be there when he got back…
—-
7:40 PM.
How long has it been? Drake's been asleep for nearly three hours now.. Yet he woke up around 20 or so minutes ago. He couldn't fall back asleep. Sometimes, Drake is too afraid to sleep. He's afraid of the nightmares that come with it. So; he just sat on the bed, huddled into a ball. His leg still hurts. But it wasn't as bad as before. He suffered through terrible pain with the procedure and now he's better because of it. All it took was two hours of Drake having to wait for Asgore, and then another half an hour to traverse to Yeshfiah. It was semi-worth it in the end. But, all the question that remained in his mind is: Where is Asgore? He said he'd come back for him, right? So why isn't he back? Drake is getting anxious.
He didn't like the idea of being alone for too long. His other free leg bounced up and down. Drake's afraid that Phobane downstairs would kick him out if Asgore isn't coming. He didn't know where he would go or what he'd do! He'd probably go back to Clearport as his next best option. Maybe Undyne could still be there to help him? And since she worked with Asgore, she could let him know that he's back in Clearport! Thankfully Phobane hasn't done anything yet, so he's still got time.
Drake would try again with his leg. Glancing at the edge of the bed, Drake furrows his brows and slides his once injured leg off the bedsheets and onto the floor. "Mmphh..!" He mustered a groan of pain. He can't back down. He had to do it. He's tired of Asgore having to carry him around. He felt annoyed doing that. "C'mon.. Drake.. Jus'.. do it." Okay. Now for the other leg. An uneasy popping noise in his knees emits from his leg, wincing heavily. He can stand better at least. "Okay.. that hurts. A bit." Drake muttered. He should check on the curtain. Drake began to strangely walk over to the window where the curtains were still drawn. His leg slightly dragged behind him using his hand to push aside the window curtain.
Scouting the area only to find not much. All he can see is a few monsters walking about. But not the one he's looking for. Sitting down on the other bed whining, he would lie on his back against the mattress staring at the ceiling. Has Asgore forgotten? No. He couldn't have. He made a promise to come back. All Drake has to do is wait a little while longer. Drake has faith in Asgore. Another pile of waiting where it turned into minutes. Watching the digital clock strike a number every now and then. It felt like he's going insane.
7:53 PM.
This is going nowhere. Drake decided to sit upright and mess around with his magic while he waited for Asgore to come back for him. His mind is focusing. Just a small ball of water.
The tingly sensation came back. His pupils illuminating a glowing light blue. That's how he knew his abilities worked whenever he wanted to use them. Forming from the thinness of nothing would form a little sphere of water hovering about. He thought about it. Twice his abilities almost cost him his life. He wanted to practice while he had a chance to do so. The magic itself seemed strained, but it's there. He never gets a chance to really practice his magic due to the fact that humans on the surface.. Well where he's from would never understand it. Even he didn't understand it. Swirling the ball in a spinning motion. The water is cold to the touch. Even at room temperature here, did the warmth of the room not affect the chill of the ball itself.
"So.. small stuff only works, then?" Drake processed the idea that his body couldn't really handle such big things. But, if that's the case then how did the bubble earlier save his life? The answer he didn't know? His soul. The soul when it has a quality is in a strange way like adrenaline. It gives the caster and its user a power boost when in danger or in a dire situation which is how Drake survived that fall. But, now that he isn't in a dire situation, Drake is just… Drake. "I wonder if I can make it bigger?" Drake attempts it. Straining his focus to make the ball a bit bigger. Grunting to put more size to it. Slowly, but surely did it begin to manifest a tiny bit bigger than before.
That was until a sudden knock at the door caught him off guard. Gasping out and making him drop the ball of water onto the carpet. His attention shifted at the door. "Wh-Who is it?" He called out. If.. it's another monster, then he hoped they didn't realize there were humans inside of this room. Nervousness wracked at his being standing up again. The pain didn't seem to register, not paying any mind to it. Drake would ball his knuckles into a fist. Untill…
"Oh! You're awake, young Drake! I was worried that you would still be sleeping and I hoped I didn't interrupt it!" A certain muffled, yet deep tone answered back. Oh, for the love of..
"Sigh.. Y' scared me, Asgore!" Drake huffed beginning to make his way over to the door and unlocked it for Asgore since he did so earlier just in case any monster would just randomly enter. The likeliness of it happening? Slim, but never zero. Opening the door, he would be greeted by the king of the monsters rubbing the back of his neck.
"I apologize, young Drake. It wasn't my intention to frighten you. I just had thought I would be back while you were still resting. But it is good you've awakened. I have good news for you! My family has agreed to let you stay with us for the time being. If and until you feel ready to cross the barrier that is.." Asgore added. Drake didn't want to be a permanent resident here, but at the same time.. He didn't want to go back to living a life like he had. He'd have to think about it for now. But, now that Asgore is back. They could start to leave this place. Drake would exhale.
"R-Really? I don' know wha' t' say. Uhm.. thank you.. And your family." Asgore would beam lightly.
"It was nothing. We should get a move on. I'm certain you'd like to leave this place." Drake would hold onto the hand of Asgore.
"It's good to see you can.. Somewhat walk again too." Asgore added. Drake still needed to take it easy. He can't push himself too harshly if he doesn't want to irritate the inflamed area. Closing the door behind them would Asgore lead Drake to the elevator. Entering it to the 'Ding!' chime play to the effect of them going down the stories of the Inn. The humming noise of the machine pushing the contraption downwards to the first floor. Another 'Ding!' and out they went off the elevator. The reception area being a small area thankfully they could lead out the door quickly. But… before Asgore and Drake could leave.. Drake stopped Asgore for a moment, turning his head over his shoulder to the counter where Phobane was reading something. Drake knows it was a long shot, but…
"Hey? Mister Phobane?" He called out.
No reply. Only a glance up from the item he's reading to stare at the kid who is about to finally leave his Inn. Drake knows it wasn't much to him, but he's incredibly grateful he helped him. "Thank you for helping me. It really means a lot." He said, flashing a small smile to the other monster. Though, Phobane wasn't as grateful as Drake is. Only giving a grunt as a reply and turning back to his book or logbook. Whatever it was.
"Leave." He simply said. Yeah. It was a try.
Asgore sighs. "Come, young Drake." He would guide the boy out of the Inn and back towards Hotlands where they would take a small detour through it where they could reach the Citadel easier. Drake knows it wasn't his place to ask, but he wanted to ask anyway.
"Asgore? I hope this isn't too much to ask.. But how come Phobane doesn't like me? I mean.. I know you said the war and all.. But, I'm just curious.." Drake inquired, wanting to know more about Phobane and his hatred for humans. Asgore knows he probably shouldn't say, but what one doesn't know doesn't hurt. After all, Drake would most likely not see Phobane again. Asgore would keep walking and finally explain.
"..While in the war, Phobane had.. Lost his only son to humans." He would admit looking down to Drake who seemed to finally understand. "His son, a bright individual. His name was Yargas. He had always wanted to join the royal army. He wanted to be just like his father when he came into the royal army. He wanted to be a doctor. Heal all kinds of monsters and feel like he is helping a cause. And he was. Did.. anyway, during one particular siege that happened on the surface; monsters were being injured left and right. We were under heavy attack, Humans came from everywhere. We were doing all we could to preserve as many monsters as possible."
Asgore remembered it all. The last fight before they were pushed to the Underground. Old Home. He stayed silent for minutes on end with Drake essentially dragging his leg through Hotlands. He wanted to understand. Maybe he's a bit too curious, or, maybe he wanted to understand the Monsters' struggles better. Drake held closer to Asgore's hand, as if trying to comfort him.
Asgore felt like he owed a lot to Phobane. Even blamed himself for losing Yargas. But the one thing that Phobane had always comforted Asgore in knowing is that Yargas knew what he signed up for and knew what he was in for. It was that courageous attitude that always made him proud of his son for doing what he thought was best. "He… Sacrificed himself in the end for other monsters." Agore felt a tinge of guilt beginning to rise. "Sigh.. I apologize, Drake.. I do not wish to talk about this anymore." Drake felt like he asked something he should have. Darn his stupid curiosity! Drake knitted his brows in his own guilt.
"I'm sorry, Asgore. I-I didn't mean to make you upset." He would feel bad for even mentioning the topic. He knows now not to bring it up anymore with Asgore.
"It is okay, young Drake. You did not know. I just don't like remembering that part of my past. Too many mistakes and remorsing." He eased Drake's own guilt by pushing Asgore's down the back of his mind. Asgore would forever have to live with that mistake of the war. Even if it wasn't his own fault. He still felt to blame. They continued in silence for the rest of the way through Hotland.
Drake didn't realize how expansive that Hotlands were. How long it felt. Even when Asgore forgave Drake, the silence felt like tormenting shame and guilt. Drake isn't trying to upset Asgore. A lot of what Drake could relate to. That shame. That shameful past. Could they ever look at Drake the same if they knew that? What has he done? That's why he kept it all inside so much. To NEVER let anyone know. At least, he truly did understand what Asgore meant by the 'too many mistakes part'.
—-
Some time Later.
Traversing through Hotlands wasn't too bad in the end as they are close to arriving into the main city of the Citadel. Asgore stopped for a moment glancing down at Drake. Drake tilted his head a bit looking up to the monster. "Why did we stop? Is something wrong?" He inquired. Asgore thinking about something it would seem.
"I.. do not think it wise to let monsters see you in New Home just yet. I wish for them to allow time to get used to your presence. So; I will need to hide you for the time being. Please enter here." He would drape up his cloak for Drake to enter under his cloak.
"Oh.. uhm.. Okay?" Drake didn't fully understand, but he's not going to argue about it. Not when they're so close to the palace. Entering into the cape would the large cloak fall around him. Asgore's larger hand making sure to hold onto his smaller one. Drake felt uneasy with being hidden, but he trusted Asgore's decision. Asgore would make sure Drake is ready to walk.
"Ready, young Drake? Don't worry. I'll be sure to let the guards know of your time here in the morning. I just don't want other monsters seeing you just yet. I don't believe they're ready to see a human inside of New Home. B-but rest assured! The Citadel is more accepting than the rest of the Underground! It's just… recent events that don't pertain to this have left the monsters here.." He shook his head. "Nevermind. They'll come to see you more in due time. Just follow my lead." With that, the two began to walk forward where he could hear the bustling of voices around him.
The sounds of idle chatter here and there. He could even hear a few monsters calling out to greet the King returning. And he'd greet them back in a good evening. Drake's heart is hitting against his chest. Trying to stay calm for Asgore. No hasty movements. No need for anything rash. Asgore would guide him through the Citadel. Drake couldn't see anything. Just… darkness except for the small glimpses of the outside he could make out through the cracks of the cape. He could see they were approaching somewhere big. Drake couldn't tell for sure. Drake just kept a tight grip onto Asgore's hand.
"Evening again, gentlemen. I do believe I had forgotten something earlier. Please excuse me." Asgore spoke with the front guards again. Asgore subtly tucking Drake closer to his leg where his right arm would begin to pocket at the small pouch on his left side belt fishing out the silver key again and jangled it into the front gate. "Have a good night." And with that, the both of them were into the palace and walking up to the castle. Once the coast was clear, Drake was allowed freedom from the dark cape, and before his very eyes were a MAGNIFICENT scene. A castle of pillars and marble. Stone mixed in with the marble. If Drake's eyes could shine at that very moment it would've. Drake's expressions said it all, leaving a small chuckle from Asgore.
"Impressive, isn't it? The very heart of New Home. Welcome to Dreemurr Castle, young Drake." Drake would take the time to glance at his surroundings. The nightly lit torches of the castle halls dancing in view once more.
"Wait.. Asgore? Aren't you worried someone might see me?" Drake worried about a royal guard seeing his presence. A shake of the head comes from the King.
"Ah, no. No need to worry about them. Many have returned to their homes. The guards here- They are aware of your visit. I had not mentioned the ones outside, unfortunately. I will correct that before you awaken tomorrow." Drake glanced at the guards across from them who didn't even take a glance at the human boy next to the king. "Come with me. We shouldn't be long. We are almost there." Asgore guides Drake via hand once more away from the main palace. Drake couldn't believe the sights he's seeing. How majestic everything looked. This really did look like it came out of some sort of fairytale.
Just by the size of the place, he could fit SO many monsters in here. He's never seen such a place before. Never in his life did he get to imagine seeing and being in a castle. A smile never left his face. He's glad he's finally out of the woods and in a safer environment. It only took.. About 5 hours for him to come to this place. Sheesh. It really did sound that bad. Working their way through the castle, Drake noticed how decently warm it is here.. Not a draft. Just… Silence and peace. The walls again… they were changing color. From the warm tan and cream colors of the palace walls to the purple hues and the flowers aligning the floor. Even more silence. The only noise being their footsteps and Asgore's cape shuffling against the floor.
They were approaching their destination up ahead. In front of them is the fountain that leads up the stairs to the Dreemurr Residence. 'Welcome to the Dreemurr Residence.' The fountain would read out. "Up here, young Drake." Asgore smiled down at him letting go of his hand feeling safe with Drake merely following him. Drake would make his way up the stairs in slight pain. His feet were killing him at this point. They had been walking for a good while now and Drake is growing absolutely exhausted. But, he had to push through. Drake is just there. His family's home. Drake pushed onwards up the stairs where he followed behind Asgore.
In the middle of this portion of the home would sit a quaint home. The flowers. Red and yellow in color. The floral scent here permeated his senses. A few windchimes dangling next to the door. Even if they couldn't play, it was a good attachment to the feel of the home itself. Drake is awestruck by such a place. His old home wasn't as nice as this. Drake could only just take this in. To experience this. Drake would blink a couple times before the sound of a door opening aways from him would catch his attention. Standing in the doorway would be a monster that looked very much like Asgore. A little bit smaller, but not by much. Her clothing a white and purple robe with the deltarune symbol on her chest. Her horns are smaller than Asgore's. The look on her face welcomed warmth and yet, sympathy? He couldn't tell from here. Asgore would kneel down to Drake's height.
"Welcome to my humble home, Drake. I hope you are comfortable here. That there is my significant other. Toriel. She won't hurt you, you have nothing to fear." Drake took Asgore's hand where he stood back up and helped Drake towards the home. His messy hair hides his eyes a bit. Toriel smiling softly down at him. This is the human he had been talking about. Asgore wasn't kidding. He really did look so young. Upon approaching the front door, Drake would politely yet shyly wave to Toriel. She too knelt down to his height to hope to quell his worries.
"Welcome, Drake. It is nice to meet you. My name is Toriel. I'm sure it's been a very long and scary day for you. You have nothing to be afraid of, child. You are welcome here." A reassurance for him to not be nervous of staying in the Dreemurr Residence.
Drake hadn't expected her to be so.. Nice. It's a welcome feeling. Drake weakly smiled back. "It's.. really nice to meet you too, miss Toriel. Thank you for letting me stay here. I-I promise I won't be trouble." Toriel laughed softly.
"Fret not, Drake. I'm sure you won't be. Are you hungry? You must be after having such a day." She wanted Drake to feel like a guest here. Not scared. "I have made monster lasagna if you'd like. Oh, I should ask.. Are you by chance allergic to anything?"
"Jus'... peppers. M'parents always said I couldn' have pepper stuff." Toriel made a note of that.
"Very good. Do come inside. I do not wish for you to be standing here all day." She would offer. But, before she could let him in. Two pairs of eyes were staring at one another through the crook in Toriel's shoulder. Drake instantly noticed this and stared off into this distance.
"Hm?" She would turn her head around to notice Asriel standing behind her, watching curiously and leaning against the railing of the staircase. Toriel's expression softened.
"Oh, it's okay, my child. This is Drake. Our guest your father mentioned to you about." Asriel ascended the rest of the stairs to approach behind Toriel where the two would meet face to face. Drake stood about the same height as Asriel. Asgore placed his hand onto Drake's shoulder to ease his shyness too.
"And this Drake, is my son Asriel. Don't be shy. It's okay." Drake would stop clutching close to Asgore's hand, blinking a moment before approaching Asriel.
"H-Heya there.." He would wave to the younger monster. "S'uh…s'weird day isn't it?.. Aheh.." Drake felt like slapping himself for sounding so awkward. This wasn't exactly the best of times that Drake felt like being social. But, he's not going to be rude either. Drake would smile weakly at the other. Asriel too isn't sure what to say since this is the second time he's ever seen a human. "Sorry, s'.. Been a REALLY weird day for me." Drake excuses. Drake wasn't really good at making friends. When he DID have friends, they were minimal. Maybe one or two back on the surface. Asriel gives an awkward laugh back.
"Yeaaah.. Heheh.. It's okay! Why don't I show you a tour of the house? That'd be fun!" Toriel places a hand onto Asriel.
"Now, now, my child. Let's have Drake eat first, then you can show him the house. How does that sound?"
Asriel can agree with that. He couldn't imagine having fun on an empty stomach! "Okay! Mom's lasagna is really good! You'll love it!" He doesn't know why, but Asriel's cheery attitude is helping Drake become a little more comfortable around them both. It's strangely contagious. He'll accept it.
"There we are, young Drake. Let's have food in your stomach, hm?" Asgore suggested and guided Drake by his shoulder into the Dreemurr household where Asgore closes the door behind him to leave the royal duties to tomorrow. Unaware that tonight wasn't going to be done with the dramatics unfortunately…
—-
AN: Hey guys! I'm REALLY sorry this one dragged on and felt rushed. There was a LOT that had to be covered in a singular chapter from the discussion between the Dremurr family, to Drake being picked up, to Asgore guiding Drake back to the Citadel and Drake meeting Asriel and Toriel. I promise I will try to stick to at LEAST 6,500 words to 8,000 words per chapter, but unfortunately this is one of those chapters that has a lot to cover, so, I'll be working on the next chapter in the next couple days as I need to have a small break for tomorrow. Don't worry! I'll be posting the next chapter soon! As this next chapter is one I've been really looking forward to for the last few days~ With Drake finally inside of the Dreemurr home, all seems well! Or will it be? Can Drake find it past himself to move on as well? Find out next time on Cry of Bravery!