Chapter 1: Whatever it Takes
Chapter Text
The air was thick, almost suffocating. As far as one could visualize with their two eyes: darkness, almost tar-like, and completely unnatural. The girl however, stood steadfast. Up until this very moment, the goal had been clear: do whatever it takes necessary to obtain her goal, regardless of consequences, regardless of morals or values, all for-
Her.
Frisk felt for the first time what may be fear-or regret- trickling down her spine. The moment she had desperately fought for was upon her, so near yet seemingly just as far from her grasp as ever. A small shiver trailed all the way up the small frame of her figure, and her breath seemed to run cold.
I've finally reached it. She thought to herself. I did everything I could, committed atrocities I'll never forget, eliminated anything in my way with no fear or doubt… yet. She gazed down at her feet, flashes of her friends raced through her mind like a ricocheting bullet. I can't seem to take the next step forward. Steeling herself, she mentally imagined walking forward, and found the strength to do so physically. Her breathing turning ragged, as the air proved as difficult to breathe as it felt, and her steps grew cautious. All she had to do now, was speak a simple name:
Her name.
She felt the familiar churning feeling in her stomach she had grown accustomed to on all her journeys. The emotion, no, the concept itself that kept her going, pushed her to do anything; the power itself to stand strong against all odds:
Determination.
"I know you're there." She said plainly and with a short breath.
But nobody came.
"I know everything about you. Your past, your plans," she hesitated momentarily. "Losing your soul."
All she had to do was simply say the name of the unidentified person she was referring to, yet she found herself stalling for reasons unknown even to her. Perhaps a justification was subconsciously needed, or maybe she did not want her journey to come to an overbearing halt, and be all for naught. What was undoubtedly true, however, was her only task she had to do was say one simple name:
Her name.
"Chara."
At first, it seemed like her statement was met with the same silence currently surrounding her, until only a moment later, she heard the faint noise of what seemed to be wind picking up speed, like a storm was rolling in. In the darkness so deep that it seemed to absorb everything around it, the sound picked up and a faint glow appeared before the girl. The once quiet, eerily empty space now deafening noisy and began to feel alive itself. Frisk planted her feet and began to feel the churning in her stomach grow stronger, almost like it was begging for her to make a move, to prepare for anything and everything that could possibly happen. In all of her previous journeys, this was a total first for Frisk, and something else was beginning to take the place of her previous anxiety and fear: excitement.
The howling increased to an unbearable level as the darkness seemed to finally finish absorbing everything in its path like a rouge black hole, and the faint glow turned a deep- almost blood like-crimson. The room became silent once more and the dark crimson aura shined brightly, too brightly, before dissipating completely.
Replacing the aura itself, was a girl, looking no older and unsettlingly similar to Frisk, yet a different frame. Where Frisk was small in stature, and petite in size, the girl before her was taller- almost a whole head so- and supported a more solid, slightly muscular frame. Her dark brown hair was cut neat and straight, hanging shoulder length upon her contrasted with Frisk's fairly messy chestnut bob cut. The girl's face was sharp, yet her feminine features seemed to shine through her almost overly rosy-red cheeks and small nose. Her eyes seemed to glow faintly, a strikingly bright red-many shades brighter than the aura previously in her place- that pierced through Frisk, keeping her planted, almost paralyzed.
Time seemed to halt as the two stared at one another for what seemed a new eternity. Though, to Frisk, it felt more like a sizing up, rather than outright curiosity, that the girl in front of her held her gaze for so long, as if she was preparing to attack her at a moment's notice.
"Know me, do you?" The girl finally spoke, her voice seeped out, like blood dripping off a dagger. "A few dusty tales here and there, a couple lost recordings and messages, and suddenly you claim yourself a specialist?"
Before Frisk could even react or process, she felt a sharp, hot pain across her face, stinging her cheek as the girl slapped her, causing her to recoil back and take a step away from her, rubbing her cheek reflexively.
"Complete mockery. You know nothing of me, my past, my goals-" She sneered, "my sacrifices. You are but a pawn in a larger game, yet you see yourself the King." The look of disgust in the girl's eyes was replaced with what seemed like bloodlust, and a wide-almost too much so- grin spread across her face. "Whom ever gave you the idea that YOU'RE in control?"
The girl began to take a step forward towards Frisk, the grin across her face never wavering. Frisk found herself unable to move, her trembling knees betraying her usual gusto and ever reluctant determination to press forward. Her stomach was churning as much as ever and her heart was pounding. A cacophony of emotions swirled in her chest. She did it. Chara- or at least she believed this was Chara- was standing directly in front of her. She was able to reach her, even if the circumstances were not entirely in her favor.
As Chara closed the gap on Frisk, she couldn't help but feel more excited than scared, and took a deep breath before hopping backwards.
"Wait!" Frisk finally spoke, much louder than she anticipated, causing Chara to stop momentarily. "Maybe you're right, I may not actually know you know you, but I am interested in you. I want to help you!"
Chara laughed, her voice ringing out in the void. "Help me? With what exactly? You've eliminated the entirety of the underground itself, and all for what? For some self-righteous goal you set for yourself? To achieve an ending that justify the means?" She whispered close, seeming to manifest out of thin air, "I've seen your little adventures. I've been there the whole time. Every battle, every friendship, every betrayal- all for your own demented gains."
Frisk winced and her brow furrowed slightly, "Wait hold on, what do you mean my gains?"
The grin spread wider across Chara's face, seeming to creep ear to ear as her face appeared itself to melt. "Do not play coy with me, girl. I must say, however, I admire your dedication. Your small frame betrays your large ambitions and your unwavering strength. The way you relentlessly pursue your goals-throwing caution to the wind- is not unlike myself."
Frisk shuddered having Chara's unnaturally frigid breath tickle against her ear, seemingly crawling its way down to the nape of her neck. Putting some distance between the two of them once more, she looked the girl opposite of her directly in her piercing red gaze.
"I am selfish." Frisk started, her words no longer caught in her throat, instead flowing from her core. "I don't know if the ends will justify all I've done. Maybe they never will, and maybe this was all a mistake meant to satisfy my own curiosity." She smiled, a toothy, innocent-like smile that caught Chara so off guard, her face seemed to snap back to normal. "What I do know, is that everything I did lead me to this moment. To you, Chara."
Chara's eyes sharpened and her grin turned to a scowl. "This is the moment you so desperately craved? An empty world?" She scoffed. "Maybe you aren't like me at all. My goals were never so…"
"Personal?" Frisk chimed.
"Pathetically small minded." Chara retorted, with a small huff. "So. You have your audience with me. Whatever could be in that little head of yours now?"
"I want to help you, like I said. To give you another chance. What happened to you, to Asriel, to the Underground, we can change it, all of it." It was not unnoticed to Frisk that Chara winced faintly at the mention of the small goat-child, Asriel.
"Do not speak of his name." Her words sliced through the air, so sharp Frisk felt the need to quickly rub her neck. "What happened is in the past. It cannot be changed nor reconciled. He is dead-" she paused. "and I am soulless, bound to this underground forever. If you knew me as much as you proclaim, you would know this."
Chara stepped closer to Frisk, though this time with seemingly no mal-intent. "Your plan has failed, and you have failed." She chuckled to herself, startling Frisk more than anything at the moment, "Perhaps we truly are alike."
"Maybe we can't change exactly what happened," Frisk stepped closer, as if to meet Chara half-way, "But maybe we can make a new future, one where there is hope. A good ending for everyone, even you." She reached out her hand, to be swiped away almost instantly by Chara.
"Your optimism will be met with nothing but disappointment. Did you not understand me, or are you purposefully daft?" She poked her head dramatically, as if to emphasize her point. "What's done is done, not even immense power of your oddly deterministic nature will save everyone."
Frisk eyes darted around before meeting Chara's once more. She grinned, "I know you've been with me this entire time, Chara. I've felt your presence and I've heard your voice. I knew it was you. I'm not sure how you're attached to me, but its like my entire body knew that you were a part of me. That's how I know I can do this right. This world would have never given me or you this chance if it didn't mean something."
Chara grinned and stepped forward again. "Egotistical as well as selfish, aren't we? It wasn't you that attached me." She reached out and pointed directly at Frisk's chest. "It was your soul."
Frisk stared in slight confusion as her soul seemed to glow from her very inner being and make its presence in reality alongside the two. A cartoonish shaped, deep red heart.
"My soul?"
"As you are aware, a human soul is many times stronger than a monster's. However, your soul is seemingly many times stronger than any human as well. Your thoughts, your goals, your determination is the very culmination of your being-as well as your power."
Chara's eyes never parted from Frisk's soul, staring intently-too hungrily. Frisk covered her chest, receiving an eye roll from Chara.
"I was revived from my eternal rest as a soulless entity, not quite dead, not quite alive, yet conscious all the same." She grabbed Frisk's shoulders lightly, whispering in her ear once more, causing a cold shiver, and a non-freshly slapped blush forming on her.
"At first, I observed you, curious as to the new life I had been given. Yet it was all too clear to me that I was simply a passenger in your mind, somehow attached to the feelings in your core."
"So you were my passenger?" Frisk retorted. "I hope you at least enjoyed your stay!" She said trying to lighten the mood.
"Enjoyed?" Chara sighed heavily and pushed herself away from Frisk, "I merely endured through your strange power to simply and instantaneously reset yourself to achieve whatever outcome you desired. A god-like power that mocks fate." She looked towards the ground. "I resented that. I still do. Why was I never given such a power? What made you special? Was I not set in my goals? Was I not determined?" Chara's fists curled into tight balls as her scowl deepened.
"I think you're special. " Frisk attempted to input.
Chara raised her hand in a "shush im speaking" kind of way, and was already annoyed of Frisk's rude interjections, "And then it all hit me at once: I wasn't special. I waivered in my plan by feeling concern for Asriel and we could not successfully complete our mission. We couldn't free monster kind. That resentment turned to anger, and finally, into hatred." Chara grinned slightly and met Frisk in the eyes once more. "I began to whisper to you, like a voice in your head, trying to influence you. If I couldn't have my happy ending, then why could you? But it didn't work, even now, after your slaughter of the monster race, I know you can just start again if you choose. Yet you chose to be here, absorb the collective power of the souls of monster kind, just to summon me in a form you can physically talk to." She paused for just a moment, and clapped her hands curtly. "Well congratulations, I am here. Nice to meet you, I am Chara. I hope you feel satisfied with this outcome." She gave a bow, in an almost sarcastic and annoyed kind of way.
Frisk took a moment. Everything that Chara had said had made her head a mess of thoughts and emotions. Her outlook on her entire journey and plans felt flipped upside down. Had this been what she truly wanted? Was this merely her soul doing the job for her? Was she just a pawn like Chara had suggested? She shook her head lightly, brushing doubt from her mind. No. Her soul was only powerful because she herself had willed it that way. Her determination is what powered her soul, not the other way around. She found herself with yet another goofy grin on her face, much to Chara's displeasure.
"Nice to meet you, Chara. I am Frisk." She sweetly stated, giving a small, untrained curtsy. "I am going to help you and save the rest of the underground as well. Despite what you assume about me, this is just a step in my overall hopes and dreams." She reached out her hand towards the girl just an arms-length away, "Lemme show you how large my real ambitions are. Let's do this together. I'll make your wish come true and we'll truly become the fate of human and monster kind." Frisk's smile never wavered, and her hand never trembled.
Chara stood straight, bewildered by the girl in front of her. After everything she said, somehow it seemed it went in one ear and out the other. Was this a trick of some kind? What could she possibly do now? How would they even fathomably accomplish her goals together? Morbid curiosity took the better judgement of her, "And what if I disagree to help you? What if I end your plans here and now?"
Frisk did not waver. "Then I will keep trying until you do. It's like, kinda my thing."
Chara's face flushed in slight anger and embarrassment. "Do not toy with me."
Frisk did not waver. "Toys are for playing silly, this isn't a game. Give me a chance. Let's do this again, once more. I'll show you a new future, one for all monsters."
Chara eyed the girl up and down. She stood strong, not a hint of regret or doubt. It was incredibly frustrating to see. How could she stand like this, so determined and calm after all she's been through? How can she say with such certainty she will not fail? The resentment began to build again in Chara's empty chest.
"A deal with you then," Chara spat out, the poison in her tone as dark and visible as tar. "Give me your soul and I'll go back with you." She reached out her arm as well, putting only inches of distance between the two. She grinned knowing her "deal" was impossible to complete. This girl in front of her might be extremely naive- if not downright mentally challenged- but she would never give up her power over this world so easily.
Frisk, however, did not waver. "Half," she said plainly.
Chara's grin was replaced by outright confusion. "Excuse me?" Her hand dropped to her sides.
"Half. We will share it. You'll have a soul again, and I won't be an empty ol' shell like you."
Chara's face flushed again, her bravado crumbling into pure bewilderment. "What trickery is this? How would you even give me half a soul? Are you dense, or just stupid?"
"Dunno. I'll figure it out though. Are you planning on going back on your word?" Frisk looked directly into Chara's piercing red eyes, now betraying a hint of doubt.
Frisk's eyes, a deep and dark brown seemed to burn a hole in Chara's mind. Was this her determination in full force? She had never been on the receiving end of it, and admittedly, felt small- overwhelmed. Was this what she exerted on others all the time? She thought for a moment, staring at the girl in front of her. Maybe, just maybe she was the key. Maybe her sacrifice would not be in vain. The ending she always truly deserved may be unlocked using this girl.
Chara grinned widely, her eyes seeming to twinkle brightly with intention. She grasped her hand firmly.
"Consider it a deal."
With that, a light so bright the world seemed to fade into complete white nothingness, began to surround the two girls. Chara was blinded and completely bewildered by the moment, yet she swore she saw a faint smile purse across Frisk's lips before her vision completely vanished.
Chapter 2: The True RESET
Chapter Text
Nothingness was an all too familiar companion for Chara. The feeling of emptiness. Unimaginable, yet so unmistakable in it's presence. Being untethered to mortality and thought; Chara was, in some way, completely free- listless and unchained. This bizarre concept was commonplace for what felt like eons to the girl; however now, she could feel something else, nostalgic, yet utterly foreign: her soul. It screamed in her mind, flooding her thoughts and feelings, fueling her with motivation and drive, and destroying her with regret and sorrow. Struggling to keep it all within, as if she was desperate for air, but smothered by the depths of an ocean of consequences.
"..ara.." a small voice rang out.
Chara tried to move, but her body refused, trapped in a paralyzing daze. She could see herself struggling, but could do nothing. She tried to scream, but could not. She was nothing if not a helpless spectator of herself.
"..ara..!" The voice seemed to be closer.
Chara struggled in vain once more, trying to make herself known to the disembodied voice. Seeing if anything, anyone could help her in this panicked state.
But nobody came.
The girl resigned herself, realizing her resistance was futile. She wondered if this was her punishment- an eternity of suffering for squandering her life and Asriel's. As she lay completely frozen, a faint glow began to emanate from her chest, as a small tear-shaped object rose from her, floating just above. Despite everything, she struggled as she tried to reach out to it, barely feeling her arm move slowly against the impossible weight.
"..chara.." the voice was even stronger now, and perhaps, recognizable?
Chara pushed through, a rush of determination coursing through her like white-hot fire, causing her stomach to churn. Her entire being felt like it was being tortured simultaneously as she continued. Was this her soul? Was her grand gesture worth it? Did their plan work? Was everyone finally free?
"Chara!" The voice, now a loud an echoing noise, surrounded her. "Stay determined!"
With another agonizing, adrenaline filled movement, she finally grabbed onto the tear. It was warm, but not unpleasant, and surprisingly soft to the touch, putting her at ease, silencing everything that was aching her. She held it tight, unable to allow herself to release it, like it would disappear if she did, and pressed it tightly against her. In moments, it faded back in her chest, and Chara was left alone. She felt... normal. She felt alive.
"C'mon Chara! Please! Get up!"
The voice- unmistakable now- was Frisk, the girl she just took "half" a soul from. The memories flooded back to Chara like a broken dam, the sudden pressure forcing her into consciousness. She sprang up with a heavy gasp as she opened her eyes for the first time.
With a heavy breath and eyes unfocused, she darted her head back and forth attempting to take in her surroundings.
"Where? What happened? What?" She stammered, her usual tone and mannerisms seemingly lost in confusion. As her vision returned and her head stopped spinning, she found herself sitting on a bed of small golden flowers, not unlike the flowers she remembered from the King's garden. The room, dark and spacious, illuminated only by a strange hole of light directly overhead seemed to have no discernable details or recognizable features. She turned to face the only thing in the room along side her: Frisk.
Frisk smiled in relief, and let out a heavy sigh, "Oh, finally. I was real worried for a secon-" she was interrupted suddenly by Chara, who grabbed her collar, pulling her close.
"Where are we?" She demanded, her eyes bright like fire. "What. Did. You. Do."
Frisk's smile faltered and was replaced by a genuinely scared mask, her hands hovering as she peered directly into Chara. For a split second, it seemed that Chara had actually loosened her grip on Frisk.
"W-what do you mean? I took us back!" She placed her hands on top Chara's, "do you not remember?"
The fear and slight moisture in Frisk's eyes, paired with her soft, tentative touch hit Chara like a freight. The warmth of her new soul-a traitor in her chest- forced her to loosen her grip and put some space between the two. She looked down at the flowers beneath the two and took a breath, closing her eyes.
"Apologies. I did not mean to lose my composure and intimidate you. Tell me where we are." She did not yet raise her head.
Frisk was surprised, not expecting an apology from the girl, but nevertheless relieved she was no longer angry. She shuffled a bit before continuing, "We are at the base of Mt. Ebbot, where my journey always starts. I took us all the way back to square one." She made a wide gesture with her arms from her left side to her right, despite Chara not looking. "From here, we'll do it all over, me and you! We'll make everything right, just like I told ya!"
Chara looked up at her again, and then to her surroundings once more. She gazed at the light above. Sunlight. Something she hadn't seen with her own eyes, or felt with her own body since she died. It's warmth a pleasant sensation across her pale, rosy face. Though barely just a preview of the full picture, Chara relished in it's glow for a brief moment.
"Ah. I see, yes I remember now." She proclaimed in a voice just above a whisper. "We truly are at the beginning once more. Your fate defying ability never ceases to impress."
Frisk blushed, putting her hand to her cheek. "Oh well, I don't know about impressive! It's just ya know.. my determination doin its thing!" Frisk stammered, not knowing exactly why she felt so flustered, earning her a suspicious side glance from the girl in front of her.
"After that theatrical performance before and all that bravado, now you act so innocent and humble?" Chara chuckled, picking a flower from beneath her. "If I had not been an involuntary passenger on your adventures, I'd believe you to be playing me for a fool." She reached over, placing the flower in Frisk's hair, tucked between her ear, earning a deep red flush from the girl.
Frisk's tongue continued to be caught in her mouth. Chara seemed to be completely different than before. Was it because she had a soul- or at least half of one? Maybe she was always like this, and years of being soulless has caused her to be so hostile? Not unlike a particular flower that I know, she thought. She touched the flower in her hair ever so gently, as to not disturb it's delicate presence given by Chara. She noticed that Chara was still gazing at the light above, her eyes lost in thought, her naturally rosy cheeks seemingly absorbing the rays and storing them for later. Frisk couldn't help but take the moment of respite to clearly take in Chara's features more clearly than their original encounter.
"She's so pretty," she caught herself saying out loud, in a barely audible tone, yet enough to rouse Chara from her trance.
"Come again?" She said, leaning her head to the side, to meet eye to eye with Frisk.
"Nothing! I was just admiring, uh, the sun's glow! Its very pretty!" Frisk quickly pulled from nowhere, giving herself a mental pat on the back for the quick save.
"Yes, I suppose it is lovely indeed." She turned her head slightly and smirked evilly, "Though I do not believe you were talking about the sun."
Frisk's face turned bright red as Chara's eyes, and she found herself scrambling to maintain eye contact.
Continuing her short staring contest with the sun, Chara sighed shortly, "I wish the citizens of the Underground could bask in it's gentle embrace just once." Her small, mischievous grin curved downward into a faint frown that betrayed a hint of melancholy.
Frisk beamed and jumped to her feet, causing a small flinch from Chara. "That's the spirit! Let's make that happen, just you and I! I'll show you it's possible, and we'll bring everyone to the surface with us!" She reached out her hand with her palms open wide.
Chara gazed up at the girl's face, and couldn't help but think it was glowing brighter than any sunlight. She looked at her hand before giving a quick nosy laugh, and helping herself up to her feet. "Spare me the theatrics. I've seen past your facade. You're making this up as you go along. You never had any real plan." She laughed, a real, genuine laugh.
Frisk's eyes widened hearing such an outburst, "Hey! I totally have a plan, what's so funny ya jerk?" She crossed her arms and pouted.
"Here I am, yet again a unwanting sidekick in your travels, yet this time I chose to be here of my own volition." She rubbed one of her eyes, "Perhaps I was foolish for allowing myself to believe your talk of grandeur was even possible."
She approached Frisk and placed both her palms on the girl's cheeks, squeezing slightly.
"Sweet, naive Frisk believes she can fairytale her way to happiness, me in tow." She grinned.
"Bu-i can if yu just wissen.." Frisk tried to speak between squished cheeks.
Releasing herself from the girl, Chara stepped back and put her hands behind her back, gazing intently at her.
"A deal is a deal however, and I must say I am infinitely curious as to your method of achieving said goal. So let's go forth, Frisk, to fufill your.. 'hopes and dreams' was it?" She said with finger quotes, giggling to herself.
Frisk's blush never seemed to disappear, almost matching that of Chara's natural rosiness. That girl was surprisingly very touchy and personal despite her haughty attitude and the way she carried herself. Frisk didn't mind, however. In fact, she found it quite endearing that it seemed that Chara was, at the very least, willing to cooperate. Perhaps with time they could warm up to one another, and maybe even be friends. Frisk smiled softly to herself, hoping for her dreams to come true, regardless of Chara's mean teasing. Her plan was already in motion, and the hardest part was already complete. She finally had brought Chara back, and would even be able to finish her adventure together with her! The thought made Frisk's chest feel a little tight and didn't help the blush ready on her face. With a skip in her step and a bright smile on her face, Frisk bounded ahead of Chara.
As Frisk bounced ahead of Chara, she took one last observation of the room. She felt a little discomfort, as if she was being watched by something, before she snapped back to reality by Frisk's loud: "Chara! Come on, keep up, we got to get goin!" She rolled her eyes, and gave a quick sigh.
Why did I allow myself to be involved in this mess? She thought as she slowly trekked along to where Frisk was. Something about that girl.. I simply cannot fathom. Perhaps she reminds me of a certain someone. She shook her head lightly, shaking the thought from her mind. No. She is merely a means to an end. A tool for my personal purpose. I was given this opportunity to correct my mistakes and I will not squander it again.
As she caught up to Frisk, she couldn't help but be slightly captivated by the girl's enthusiasm, it's contagious energy seemingly forcing a small grin to form on her own face.
Together they walked forward out of the chamber, into the first leg of their true journey.
Chapter 3: The First (Sprained) Leg
Chapter Text
Frisk walked briskly, a newfound pep in her step as they made their way with Chara down the first corridor of their adventure together. Inside the dimly lit room was a small mound of grass, illuminated only by cracks of sunlight from above. The small flowers that sprouted in few areas along the footpath seemed to almost turn away as the girls approached.
Frisk felt her chest tighten in anticipation and nervousness. How would an interaction between Flowey and Chara go? How would that flower react upon seeing her?
He begged me not to awaken her. Frisk thought to herself, stealing a quick glance behind her, receiving a small eyebrow raise from her companion. Is he simply afraid to see her again after all this time? Or is it…something else entirely?
She readied herself mentally as well as spiritually for any outcome as they continued on, approaching the grassy patch.
But nobody came.
Frisk paused- This was unusual. She had never failed to see Flowey at this exact spot before. Was it due to Chara's presence?
"Frisk-"Chara began to speak, waving her hands in front of Frisk, snapping her out of her haze.
"Oh. Yes, Chara? What's up?" Frisk answered, a little more shocked than intended.
"Do you intend on admiring this mound any longer, or may we proceed? Your odd behavior is beginning to irk on my nerves." Her voice was clipped, as if her patience was already fraying.
She tilted her head slightly, giving Chara a puzzled look. "Do you not remember what happens right here? The flower?" She pointed at the center of the patch.
Chara's eyebrows furrowed lightly, and her tongue made a tsk sound in quick annoyance, "My memories have been quite a jumbled haze since my abrupt awakening in my new soul. I cannot be expected to remember every detail of your endeavors whilst sorting through my own," she said turning her nose up, her doubtful tone betraying her declaration.
Frisk smirked, "Oh-ho, I see. Wasn't it you that told me she remembered all my struggles and judged me for them?"
"You'd be wise to watch your tone with me," Chara sneered, her blush growing deep in her cheeks, the sunlight from before adding to their hue.
"Oh lighten up, I was just teasing you, silly. A little payback for messing with me so much!" Frisk giggled waving her hand.
"Mess with you? I do not play such silly games, I simply believe a girl of your maturity is not worth my energy for manners." She crossed her arms, and turned away from Frisk briskly. "Besides,"She stated, a mischievous grin spreading across her face, turning her head slightly, "It would behoove you to not to aggravate one who's caught your gleaming little eye. They may push you away…"
Frisk blushed, a now commonplace occurrence this time pointed at Chara, "Hey now! Who said anything abou-"
"Well, golly! I sure don't mean to interrupt the lover's spat!" A voice rang out, cutting off Frisk, her eyes now wide with surprise, she had forgotten in the banter about Flowey.
From the grassy patch, a single golden flower sprouted. Unremarkable from any other flower, except for the small, child- like face where the pistil would normally be.
"Howdy! I'm Flowey, Flowey the flower!" The small flower spoke, in a smaller, shrill voice.
Seeing the flower speak caused Chara to become extremely wary, and she dropped her hands reflexively. She had never in her years seen a flower talk.
Was this a plant controlled by magic? No, that couldn't be possible. She inferred. Plants and other inanimate objects could not hold magic. What on Earth could this possibly be?
Before she could interject, Flowey spoke again. "Geez, I didn't think you'd actually go through with it…" His face morphed into that of a demon-like scowl. "Maybe you ARE stupid!" He laughed maniacally before turning to meet eye contact with Chara, "and maybe you're dumber than I remember," he sneered.
Frisk darted her eyes back and forth between the two of them. Flowey seemed a lot more composed than he was before; perhaps even morbidly delighted to see Chara. That didn't sit right.
"Frisk, pray tell, what is this, thing, referring to?" Chara said, her guard completely up, eyeing Frisk like an animal caught in a corner.
Frisk seemed at a loss for words, she hadn't really came up with a plan on their inevitable confrontation, but she needed to come up with something quick. She didn't want to evoke Chara's wrath.
Honesty was always the best policy, and perhaps this was a good time to put those words into action.
"Chara. This flower isn't quite what he seems," She started.
"Yes, I can very well see that, you twit," Chara jabbed, her voice riddled with frustration.
"Well, see he-"Frisk's eyes shot open. "Hey, that was mean! Why would you say that?"
"I simply stated the obvious. It is entirely your fault for your less than helpful answer," Chara retorted, as if she was completely justified in her actions.
"Because you didn't let me explain, ya jerk!" Her smile wavering as Chara's words cut deeper than expected.
Flowey had a look on his face that looked a mix of befuddlement, and disbelief. "Uh, you two, are you-" He answered before being cut off:
"Perhaps next time you should get to the point instead of hot-footing around, and you will not be referred in such a manner." Chara's icy tone sliding from her palate easily, as if she was speaking to an underling. She had already forgotten about the actual matter at hand, and was more focused on her annoyance at the girl across from her.
"You should learn to listen more!" Frisk replied, her hands in tight frustrated fists.
"Ladies? Hello? Hellooooo?" The Flower spoke again.
But nobody listened.
"Do not lecture me when you yourself cannot lead through example." Chara faced Frisk, and said with a poised look.
"Says the girl with the history of bad planning!" Frisk spat.
Chara's eyes burned brightly, causing a sudden shift in the room.
Flowey reflexively shriveled down.
"So states the girl who betrayed her loved ones for a mere frivolous dream."
"Oh yea?" Frisk shot back, her frustration reaching its peak, eyes slightly moist. "At least I'm not the one with a borrowed soul!" Frisk caught a slight gasp escape her mouth, seeing Chara's grin turn into a large, intimidating smile.
"So!" Chara dramatically clapped, "The high and mighty hero of the Underground: Frisk, who just moments before now, promised me a redemption-"She balled her fists together, raising them to her chest, kicking a single leg behind her, "and an oh-so-happy heartwarming ending!" She kicked her leg back down, ending her mocking theatrics, "Revealing her true colors: regarding me as nothing but her debtor rather than partner. A shame, really. Pathetic." Her last words tipped with enough poison to glean jealousy from a cobra.
Flowey continued to look upon the two, who had long forgotten or even acknowledged his presence. He sighed, and glanced once more at Chara, a trickle of nervousness washing over his petals. His mind flashed to memories long since passed, her wide smile as sinister and spine (or stem) tingling as ever. He wanted no more part in this and decided he would meet with them again later. He dug back into the soil with a quick, "I'm outta here!" Leaving as quickly as he arrived.
Frisk's frustration left her body and was replaced with shame and hurt. Her moist eyes began to water, as she lost eye contact with Chara, instead seeking solace in the unbiased and non-judgmental dirt below her feet. Tears began to fall from her face like gentle rain as Frisk failed to contain her feelings.
Chara continued to look at the girl in front of her, now a shaking, crying mess. Her chest tightened and her face began to soften. Perhaps I was too harsh in my words. She shook her head and furrowed her brow, No, the girl brought this upon herself, I am in no wrong.
As tears continued to stream softly down, Chara's demeanor began to erode away; her soul echoed in her chest, urging her to relent, despite her pride. She complied her thoughts, took a deep breath to reset her emotions, and approached the girl.
"Frisk, I-"She began, her hand slowly reaching out, before she quickly retracted it as Frisk's head shot up.
"Chara I apologize. I am so sorry, and I should not have said that to you." Frisk whined, her voice cracking and her volume barely above a hoarse whisper. "I got mad, and I said something I didn't mean." She looked at Chara, trying to meet her in the eyes.
Chara raised her eyebrow, "Indeed. That was childish and selfish of you."
"I know. I don't know what to do to make you forgive me."
Chara looked at her for a moment. She did not doubt the sincerity in Frisk's words, in fact, she knew her previous statement did not bear any malcontent, either. Chara did not really know why she acted in such a way to begin with. It was unlike her to allow herself to engage in such trivial banter or arguments. The tightness in her chest would not cease, and she could feel something similar to dissatisfaction. She didn't particularly enjoy seeing the girl in front of her so deeply upset. Whether she enjoyed the idea or not, they shared two halves of the same soul, essentially bound together by fate itself. It would do no good to have their already paper-thin partnership be torn and irreparable.
"I would be remiss not to mention my own faults." She breathed out. "I, too, was childish in my remarks and overstepped."
Reaching out, she brushed the bangs from Frisk's forehead, exposing her eyes fully. "I forgive you. Let us ensure it does not happen again, on either side."
Frisk looked deep into Chara's bright red eyes, no longer sharp and angry, but soft, warm-and almost even… kind.
"Your eyes," Chara stated, "a deep and dark brown-like chocolate-my favorite. They tell stories of your previous adventures, yet still contain that naïve optimism you so desperately cling to." She pulled her face closer to Frisk, their noses only centimeters from touching, arising a deep blush from Frisk. "Please do not sully their beauty with such nonsense as tears. They will wash away the memories you've built, leaving the well dry with regret."
Frisk's eyes widened in surprise.
"Thank you, Chara. I'll do just that!" A small smile forming across Frisk's wet sniffled as Chara pulled herself away, wiping her tears. Her warmth and comforting touch now absent, Frisk felt almost like she had lost something. Chara had gotten very close to her; she could almost feel her heart beating out of her chest.
In all the commotion she had almost completely forgotten about…"Flowey!" She gasped, looking back at the grassy patch, but he was nowhere to be found.
"Ah, I suppose he left. Matters not. I was not particularly keen on keeping him around anyways. His presence felt, unnatural." Chara said, her eyes squinting in the direction of where the flower used to be.
Frisk lingered for a moment, a beat too long, arousing suspicion in Chara, who proclaimed, "You seem to be unsure. Come, I shall lead the way." She turned her back and walked forward further into the chamber, leaving Frisk steps behind.
I figured things would be different, Frisk pondered, her mind a river of thought. But things are happening in ways I've never seen so far. Ms. Toriel hasn't even come yet, isn't that weird? Did this reset throw off the Underground's rhythm? For the first time in many resets, she felt out of control, and conflicted.
She gave her cheeks a quick smack and smiled, shaking her head. "All right! This could be a lot of fun! Let's see where this takes us!" She announced aloud, trotting up to Chara ahead of her.
Chara rolled her eyes with a smirk, "Your enthusiasm is as obnoxious as it is contagious.
"Frisk poked Chara's shoulder teasingly, "Oh, someone is actually excited! I see past your cool guy face!"
Chara swat away her hand lightly saying, "Please refrain from over familiar contact," yet her smirk never faded. "Perhaps you are not completely incorrect," she said, barely above a breathy whisper.
Says the girl who was just inches from my face a second ago…Frisk pouted to herself, bounding ahead a few paces in front of Chara. She couldn't quite shake the feeling of unease swirling in her chest as they stepped into the familiar unknown that lie ahead of them, but she was ready and felt that with Chara by her side, they hurdle through any obstacle.
___
Off in the distance, was a small presence, watching from afar. Flowey hadn't truly left the two behind, he was too curious despite his reluctance to approach Chara.
"The idiot really was able to bring her back…" Flowey spoke to himself and his grassy audience. "What was she THINKING?" His face contorted and he scrunched his small body, "but… she seems… different." Flowey peered down the long, dimly lit corridor as the girls small backs faded off into the distance. "That new soul of hers. It makes her feel, makes her empathetic, and makes her…"his face stretched into a wide and wicked smile, "weak." His laugh, loud and heinous, echoed down the corridor, seeming to chase after the girls.
"Oh this will be so much fun!" He proclaimed before burrowing himself into the soil once more.
Chapter 4: Ruins [pt.1]
Chapter Text
-CLICK-
Suddenly, a loud thud could be heard, and the door blocking the way had swung open, allowing the girls further entry into the ruins.
Frisk and Chara had continued their way forward after their short run in with the talking flower proclaiming itself to be “Flowey the Flower”. It seemed like this time around, things were already different than expected for Frisk, whose bearings were as fresh and nostalgically unfamiliar as her original fall into the Underground.
Upon their arrival to the entrance of the ruins, they had still not been approached by Toriel. No matter the amount of times Frisk used her ability to reset herself, she had always encountered her without fail. Anxiety tightened in her chest. Frisk was worried of the consequences of having Chara around; as she was almost definitively- yet unknowingly- the catalyst driving the strange occurrences. Despite this, Frisk could feel the anticipation growing within her. She had always been one to seek adventure and new experiences, and this was no exception.
Frisk pondered to herself as she solved the ruins first couple of puzzles through muscle memory alone. Her gaze continued to dart towards the entrance of the room, half expecting Toriel to appear out of the blue. Her eyes then found Chara, appearing to look around the room like a tourist on vacation. She seems really unaffected… or maybe doesn’t even realize things are different. Seems like Chara’s memories of my adventures aren’t as crystal as she let on.
While she finished a small puzzle to open another door blocking their way in the dull purple cavern, curiosity got the better of Frisk, and she turned around to the girl, quietly following behind her.
“Hey, Chara?” Frisk began, trying to gain her attention.
--
Chara’s thoughts wandered while she oversaw Frisk’s seemingly memorized movements. After their encounter with the strange flower, they hadn’t spoken much- they simply walked forward. She noticed Frisk seemed to be confused, or perhaps, searching for something, though Chara could not imagine what. Admittedly, she could not seem to recall much of anything before their first meeting with Frisk and their reawakening in the Underground. It was if her previous memories were trapped behind an opaque lens. She could make out the shapes, but failed to recall any specific details. What she did have, was the present. She took the silence as time to gather her surroundings and observe the ruins they found themselves in.
While at first glance it seemed bland and uninspired, the ruins had a lot to offer. The dull purple tinted walls were covered in a moss that added a pop of color not immediately noticeable. The faded path beneath her feet seemed to suggest that this was formed from years of well traversed passerbys, perhaps from a time before the ruins had reached their current state. Small monsters unsuccessfully hiding from view added a breath of life, striking against the vines covering the many surfaces in the area that seemed dry and all but faded away. While not particularly remarkable in any way, Chara couldn’t help but notice that it felt alive.
“Hey, Chara?” She heard, snapping her back to reality, looking at her wayward companion, Frisk, whose face of feint worry betrayed her usual bravado.
“Something troubling you?” Chara replied, attempting to sound empathetic.
“Does anything seem strange to you so far? Like, something is missing?”
“Whatever could you be referring to?” Chara’s eyebrows arched questioningly as she placed her hands on her hips.
“Well, I mean, I know you observed my previous adventures, or whatever, but it seems to me like you don’t remember much, like when we met Flowey. You seemed to be completely unaware of who he was.” Frisk's eyes darted slightly, as she failed to keep eye contact with Chara.
“As I stated previously, I cannot be expected to remember every minute detail of your journey.” She paused briefly, “However I will admit my memory of most everything before our deal seems... obscured. Is this a problem for you?”
“No! Not at all!” Frisk waved her hands innocently, as if to ensure Chara there was no negative intentions. “I just have been noticing some weird things happening so far, a bit different than what I’m used to, is all. When you see the same things over and over, and something finally changes, it feels a little off, ya know?” She laughed half-heartedly.
“I see. I am well aware my presence here is as unnatural as your strange powers of resetting. Perhaps that is affecting the Underground in ways unknown. Only time will tell of our fate. For now, I suggest taking it one step at a time,” She grabbed Frisk’s hand and pulled her forwards, “Come now, I believe I see the way forward!”
Frisk’s cheeks blushed a bright red as she allowed herself to be led by Chara, seemingly unbothered by the situation.
Pressing forward, the girls continued on their trek through the ruins. Chara had yet to let go of Frisk’s hand as they walked side by side; a detail that Frisk purposefully did not mention as to mitigate the
chance that Chara may release her grasp. The hallway they currently found themselves in was long, narrow, and straightforward, seemingly endless.
“You’ve been in such quiet introspective thought for some time now,” Chara said out loud, looking forward. “Have you come to regret your choices?” Her face seemed blank, but her voice had what sounded like a subtle note of resignation.
Frisk looked at Chara, who did not meet her gaze, and squeezed her hand. “Of course not!” She said, louder than intended. “I would never even think that! I guess I was letting the little things bother me too much before.”
This earned an eyebrow raise and an eye glance from her companion, “Little things? I did not take you to worry about… well, much of anything really.”
Frisk giggled, “I’ll try to take that in a good way. I guess what I mean is that I was a little worried about things I didn’t know. With your memory being a haze for you, and things not happening the way I expect, I suppose I let my doubt get the best of me! Now though, I’m ready to face whatever is out there, one step at a time, right?” She smiled brightly.
Chara continued to stare ahead, a small grin escaping her mask. “Correct.”
She’s right! Frisk thought, a smile creeping on her face. If Chara isn’t worried about it, then I’m gonna enjoy it to the fullest, and make the most of it! A personalized adventure, a la Chara. She giggled to herself, earning a short quizzical look from her companion.
Frisk’s smile turned into a playful smirk as she squeezed Chara’s hand once more. “I didn’t ya’d be so worried about me, Chara. What gives?”
Chara’s rosy cheeks became a deeper saturation as she furrowed her brow. “It is as you said, no? When something familiar changes, it feels off putting. I had noticed your rude and irritating tendencies seemed to be replaced by melancholic stares into nothing.” She unfurled her fingers from Frisk’s, instead putting her hands in her pockets.
Frisk attempted to grab her hand back out of reflex, to no avail.
“I see, however, my assessment was unfounded. Still as inconsiderate as ever.”
They continued their path down the hall, Frisk trying-and failing- to appease Chara. Frisk giggled as she attempted to do anything to win back Chara’s favor, and perhaps her hand once more. Chara, while appearing to be annoyed, allowed a smile or two to sneak pass.
This banter continued until they reached the end of the corridor, where a small group of frog like creatures appeared to block their path.
Noticing this, Frisk turned her attention away from Chara and pointed at the creatures. “Hey, look! Froggits up ahead! Cute little guys.”
“They’re blocking the way.” Chara huffed out, annoyance dripping off her tongue. Her gaze turned sour as she looked at them as a lord would look upon their prisoners.
Frisk bounded ahead, eager to interact with the Froggits. Chara observed as she approached. Frisk seemed to be talking to them as one would to a cherished pet. She gave them compliments ranging from their color to their jump height. Despite this, they only communicated back with “ribbit” noises. The small monsters, whom seemed somewhat hostile upon her first approach, looked to soften up and even enjoy the company of Frisk.
This seems trivial. Why does she waste time and not just demand they remove themselves from our path? Chara thought while still watching her companion. While lost in thought, not paying attention, a small, single Froggit had hopped close to Chara, bumping against her foot, attracting her attention. She peered down and noticed it was smaller than the rest, and a very light shade of green, unlike its darker brethren. It stared at her, as if awaiting a response.
”Be gone, little one, I have no time for you.” Chara spat, her hand waving dismissively.
The Froggit did not move, and only uttered a short “ribbit” in reply.
Chara’s brow furrowed, a small tsk of annoyance escaping her mouth. “Remove yourself from my presence, before I force you to do so,” She threatened.
“Ribbit,” it answered.
“Bold are we?” Chara’s temper was starting to build as the monster did not immediately obey her command. She raised her foot, hovering directly over the Froggit, attempting to intimidate it. . “Perhaps you will not retain that attitude now," she hissed.
“Ribbit,” it replied, not moving.
As her temper reached its peak (perhaps far too quickly), she raised her foot higher with a short, “Oh that does it!”
Frisk, having noticed the spat going on behind her, quickly grabbed Chara, pulling her away from the monster, who had still not moved from its original position.
“Chara! What are you doing? Were you seriously going to step on the poor guy?” Frisk asked in genuine concern, a little angrier than intended.
Chara shook herself from Frisk’s grasp, brushing her bangs out her eyes with a huff, “I gave it proper warning beforehand. Actions have their consequences.”
Frisk crossed her arms and frowned deeply, “You have no reason to hurt him. He’s just a harmless Froggit, he was just curious about you.”
“He may direct his curiosity elsewhere.” She pointed behind her with her thumb, “We need to press onward.”
“We don’t havta be in such a rush, Chara. We can enjoy ourselves and make friends along the way!” Frisk smiled and gestured around her.
“Pointless. We have an objective, and I intend to reach it as efficiently as possible. You are impeding our progress with silly matters.”
Frisk bent over, offering her hand out to the small Froggit, to which it finally moved, hopping on her palms. She brought it close to her face, poking its small cheeks. “Did this mean ol’ demon give ya trouble little buddy?” She said, giggling and looking at Chara.
Chara’s cheeks deepened in color and her nostrils flared, “Excuse your rude mockery this second!”
“Apologize to Little Lime first!”
Chara paused, her anger seemed to dissipate. “Little… what?” She said, stunned.
“Little Lime! That’s the nickname I just gave him.” She looked at the Froggit, “You like that?”
“Ribbit,” It (happily) replied.
“See! Now tell Little Lime you’re sorry!” She held out her hands, bringing the small monster close to Chara’s face.
Chara caught her eyes meeting the monsters, now at eye level. She did recognize it was indeed non-hostile and harmless. That was not her concern. What she did not understand was Frisk’s incessant need to entertain such niceties as befriending and familiarizing with each individual monster. Was she not the one so concerned with the task at hand just moments ago? The aggravating way she bounced back and forth from one thing to the next was a clear indicator on just the kind of person her partner was.
No. Chara thought, breaking eye contact with the Froggit. Her kindness and naiveté are what truly define this girl. She is simply doing what she feels, no thought or plan involved.
Chara closed her eyes and took a deep breath, collecting herself, before reaching out to the monster slowly, placing two fingers on its small head. “My sincerest apologies, little one.”
The Froggit made a slight flinch as Chara touched its head, but her gentle tone and delicate pet replaced its worry with ease.
With a satisfied smile, Frisk put the small named monster down, and set it on its way to join the others. Meanwhile, Chara slowly continued ahead, allowing Frisk time to catch up with her. As she bounded up beside her, Frisk couldn’t help but steal looks at Chara’s free swinging hand. She could still feel the warmth of their shared touch from the hallway, as it seemed to spread upwards to her chest and face.
She wanted to hold them again. She had never felt this way about another person before. She liked the strange warm, yet tight feeling in her chest whenever Chara got too close, or offered a rare moment of kindness. There was just something about her that was different from anyone she had met previously. She shook her head lightly, dismissing the thought.
Maybe it’s cause we share a soul now. I’ve never done that before. Frisk rationalized.
She felt that was an acceptable excuse, one that Chara would assumedly come up with as well. A small part of her, however, was wishing for something more…
Chapter 5: Ruins [pt.2]
Chapter Text
“This is different,” Frisk stated, staring high upwards, seemingly dumbfounded.
Chara stood beside Frisk, eyeing her with a tinge of doubt. “Oh? In your countless endeavors, you’ve yet to encounter this?”
“Uh…” Frisk began, her mouth now agape. “Nuh uh.”
“’Nuh uh’, huh,” Chara mocked. “Well what do you suppose we do?” She furrowed her brow, lightly slapping the bottom of Frisk’s jaw. “And close your mouth. You are not a baby bird awaiting a meal.”
Frisk reset herself, taking a moment to think. Before her and Chara was a floor-to-ceiling doorway, though it was better to describe it as a sealed wall, blocking their path. Beyond this room was nearby to where Toriel’s home in the Ruins was located. However, this wall-like blockade had never been present before. It looked relatively new comparatively to the crumbling enclosure and dead greenery surrounding it. Small cracks and subtle wear etched the surface of the wall, but the color was unnaturally deep and saturated against the pale purple of the aged ruins. Across it, in large white color, was a strange symbol, similar to what Frisk had seen in the Royal Capital.
“The Royal Crest,” Chara began, staring intently.
Frisk looked over to Chara. She appeared to be in another place entirely. Her body was present, but she was not.
Chara remained unmoving as she stared into the symbol. The Royal Crest. It was everything she once had- and lost. Time around her seemed to stand still as she heard whispers coming from all directions. Fragments of the past. Her hair felt as if it stood on end, and her breath ran cold. A feeling she had not felt in ages gripped her soul.
Fear.
“…riel..” came the disembodied voices.
Chara dared not move, clenching her fists.
“..asriel..” they whispered louder.
“Do not speak his name.” Chara threatened, yet with no authority.
“..his death...” the voices started to talk over the other, repeating themselves. “Asriel’s death is on your hands…”
“HE failed! HE died! Do not pin this on me! You know nothing of our plight!” Chara could not move, even if she wanted to, which she did not. She simply closed her eyes and bit her lip, hard enough to draw blood.
“you returned… he stays gone…” the voices continued, repeating and becoming unbearably loud and incomprehensible.
Chara’s breathing became aggressive and her eyes remained closed. She could see Him in her mind. She could hear nothing but the echoes of the voices around her; but could feel something rising within her chest: her soul.
Determination filled her body, her mind becoming clearer. She opened her eyes and took a breath. “Begone. You would be wise to cease this nonsense. I am no meek pawn, I am Chara. I am here because I was willed to be so. His death, our failure shall not be in vain.” She controlled her breathing once more, as the voices died around her, leaving silence, and a small girl beside her, staring.
“Do you enjoy burning a hole into my skull with those small, precious eyes of yours?” Chara said, a smirk spreading on her non-bloodied lip.
Frisk blinked hard, “Chara, I called your name like, twenty times! You just kept starin’ at the door there. Is everything okay? You’re sweating and seem kind of pale.”
Chara took another breath, turning towards Frisk. “Worry not for me. Rather, concern yourself with our current predicament. We still do not see a way forward. Have you thought of a solution?”
Frisk looked Chara up and down. She feigned confidence and nonchalance, but moments before she snapped from her trance, she looked as if she met death himself.
What happened just now? Obviously she doesn’t wanna talk about it. Frisk wondered. I hope she opens up, but prying might make her angry.
“Oh, um! No not yet, but we should look around!” Frisk turned on her heels, feeling the situation becoming awkward, not knowing how to proceed.
“Indeed.” Chara replied simply.
Frisk was puzzled, and worried about Chara, but chose to focus on figuring out this new mysterious door. This had been yet another conclusive piece of evidence that the journey this time around was going to be completely new. At this point, she was choosing to accept it and take it with stride, and more anticipating what could possibly come next.
Chara paced across the room opposite of Frisk, in an attempt to solve the puzzle on her own, and collect her thoughts without being bombarded by questions by her partner. I have not had to think about Him for a time now. She said very quietly aloud to herself, climbing over a short ledge. These thoughts and gut-wrenching aches I feel cannot be mine alone. It must be a direct result of this soul I share. Her train of thought was suddenly interrupted as she stubbed her toe on a small sized boulder looking object.
She flinched, a rout of anger welling inside her as she kicked the object with a huff. It started to glow a white hue and blinked a few times before fading away.
“Interesting.” Chara stated her anger starting to simmer down. “But annoying.” She placed her hand on it and it began to glow again, this time steadily, as if it followed the rhythmic beat of her heart. Chillingly cold to the touch, despite its warm glow. She released her hand and the glow ceased once more.
She turned around to find Frisk across the room, and before she could speak she heard her yell first-
“Chara! I found something interesting! This rock thing glows when I touch it!” She waved her hands frantically in the air, attempting to catch Chara’s attention.
“I too have- Will you cease your jumping and waving like a buffoon?” She called back. Frisk stopped and instead gave a curt wave in its absence. Chara sighed, “I also stumbled upon such an object!”
Frisk put her hand to her chin, in an over-dramatic “thinking” pose before answering, “Is yours a pretty bright red, too?”
“No, it has a white glow to it, and is frigid to the touch. Do you believe that is important?”
“Hmmmmaybe! I was just curious if yours was pretty too. Mine sounds better though, I’ve always liked the color red.” Frisk said, admiring the object.
“Ah, of course, nonsense as usual. How delightfully charming.” Chara dramatically waved her hand in the air, rolling her eyes.
“Chara! Chara look!” Frisk called out to Chara, who had already turned her back and continued her investigation of the object.
“I cannot, dear Frisk, for I am far too busy ignoring you.” Chara responded, a trickle of sarcasm flowing from her tongue.
“Chara! Come on! Look! The door- it’s glowing when I touch the rock!” Frisk said, desperately demonstrating in quick taps her discovery.
Chara turned without continuing the conversation; she was genuinely concerned she may lose her mind if she allowed herself to entertain Frisk’s eccentric behavior.
The door did seem to respond to Frisk’s touch. The opposite side of where her partner stood from the Royal Crest shined a bright white light. Chara placed her hand once more on the object in front of her. The cold sensation quickly made its presence commonplace throughout her body. Nostalgic, in a way, reminding her of when she was a soulless being, alone and adrift. As she did this, the opposite side of the crest began to glow red, and after a moment, the colors seemed to combine into a bubblegum-like pink. Her hand began to feel warmer, as the colors molded into one, the cold and empty sensation washed away akin to a gentle tide. She found her eyes wandering to the other side of the room, where Frisk stood, highlighted by the red glow of the object she rested her hand upon. It was only for a moment before the door opened completely, revealing the path; but Chara felt she stared at her partner for an eternity, afraid that if she looked away, the warmth too would fade.
The glow of the room stopped as the objects returned to being simply rocks, leaving the girls across from each other, and the path now revealed. They met at the foot of the now open corridor, Frisk raising her hand high in the air.
“We did it! Great teamwork!” Frisk exclaimed excitedly, her hand patiently awaiting.
“Indeed. Though I do not know what you are doing there. Do you require medical assistance?” Chara’s tone felt purposefully loaded with false concern.
“A high five, silly! Don’t pretend you don’t know what that is!” Frisk said with a smile, keeping her hand ready to receive.
“I am aware of the concept, yes. What I do not understand is what you believe you accomplished to earn such a prize.” A devilish grin spreading across the demon’s face.
“Oh come on, don’t just leave me hanging!” Frisk pleaded, putting much emphasis on her still awaiting hand making its new home in the air.
“Let us continue, posthaste! I am growing weary, and would like to rest soon.” Chara walked forward towards the exit, without as much as a glance at Frisk’s hand, her grin never fading.
Frisk stood, hand very much left hanging, her mouth joining. She watched as Chara continued to walk away, never even sneaking a glance behind her. Frisk sighed deeply, this wound cutting deeper than any blade, as she high fived herself, and began to catch up to her partner.
That was an interesting puzzle, at least. Frisk thought, catching up. I wonder what else is going to be different. I would’ve been unable to do that one if it was just me here… will other puzzles need both of us? Sounds like fun to me! Bringing Chara back must be one of my greatest ideas! With her mental pat-on-the-backs out of the way, she focused her attention on the area they approached. They were closing in on Toriel’s home, however, with Chara in tow, Frisk had no idea what the outcome might bring.
The area was not quite like the rest of the ruins before. While the same old, dull walls still surrounded them, they seemed to reach a clearing of sorts, with dead grass and a single large tree, well beyond its years, continue to stand proud at the center point of the area. Decaying leaves stayed scattered around, a lack of natural breeze giving them no chance to lie anywhere not kicked up by a stray passerby.
The girls observed the area as the slowly made their way forward, it was then Frisk finally spotted who she had been watching out for since their arrival:
Toriel.
She sat still, underneath the tree, a large book in her grasp. She seemed relaxed, as if she had been there for some time, uncaring of the world around her.
“Chara,” Frisk started quietly.
“Yes, Frisk. I see her.” Chara replied plainly and nothing more. Her normally bright crimson eyes that burned like fire were replaced by a muted and mournful stare. “How long have you known?” She asked, though her voice did not hold any weight or aggression.
“The whole time,” Frisk answered meekly, her eyes planted in the ground. “I’m sorry.”
Chara did not move or shift her vision. “Worry not. I would have preferred not knowing regardless.
Frisk had never heard Chara’s voice and words crawl with such a slog. She wanted to reach out and take hold of Chara’s hand, but was unsure of herself. To her surprise, Chara had noticed out the corner of her eye, and inched her hand closer to Frisk’s, their fingers slowly meeting to intertwine. In a rare moment, neither said a word. Frisk wasn’t sure what to say. Chara did not need to speak. The air felt heavy, a weight they bear together, their single soul, carrying the load of two burdens.
Another moment later, Chara was the first to break the silence. “I am ready,” was all she said, unfurling her fingers from Frisk’s, abandoning their comfort and warmth.
Frisk smiled reassuringly, “Of course, let’s do this.”
For the two of them, this was a preview of what awaited them in the Underground. The adventure was only just beginning, and they would have to take it one step at a time.
Chapter Text
It was quiet. It was dark. It was… a little cold and lonely.
Frisk lay in a small bed within Toriel’s home, staring at the ceiling. This place was as familiar to her as her own favorite striped shirt; the faint smell of butterscotch pie dancing through the air all the way from the kitchen, and the feeling of a well worn-in mattress beneath her, comfy all the same. Yet, it felt further from her established normal than ever. Despite the numerous changes on their adventure thus far, Frisk realized she couldn’t help herself from expecting everything to be on its regular path; sans Chara of course. She loved the unknown, thrived on adventure—so why did this feel so worrisome? She rubbed her eyes, leaving her hands on top of them.
Maybe I got too used to everything. She thought: It was all so easy and fun before… but my heart is all fluttery for some reason. Why am I so nervous about what will happen next? I try and I try to forget about it and stay positive so much that it makes me look bad in front of Chara. She paused for a moment, seeing Chara’s face in her mind’s eye- that unamused look she’d get while hiding a grin whenever Frisk made a joke or did something silly. The way her rosy cheeks would deepen when she was flustered or angry. I hope she’s alright. She let go of her eyes, gazing longingly to a small dark figure in the corner, curled tightly, unmoving. Chara had been that way the entire time they had been in the room together. She hadn’t said a word. Frisk sighed sadly, unknowing of her next move, her thoughts racing back to earlier in the day.
-
To claim that what had happened between her soul partner, Chara, and Toriel was anything but a spectacle would be a grievous misinterpretation. Frisk had never seen Toriel, so strong, with a face so contorted and eyes swollen with tears, her past crashing over her without warning. She seemed more confused than anything initially, before the tide rolled in, her emotions crashing over, until she collapsed, sobbing on her knees. Frisk had tried to say something, but was surprised to see Chara react before her, as she reached out for Toriel.
“Ms. Toriel, please do not cry for me.” Chara started, unsure on how to proceed. Her hand, placed on Toriel’s large furry shoulder, looked small and frail. “I do not quite understand the circumstances that led me here before you again, but I assure you it is no trick nor illusion.”
Chara stood, her hand unmoving from Toriel, until the large goat woman finally calmed her sobs, and moved her face from her paws. She looked at Chara again, as if she was confirming her existence. She really, truly, was present. Chara could see in her large, sore eyes glistening with tears- a mother who had been alone and hurt. They contained a deep sadness from years of grievance; and deep in Chara’s shared soul, she could feel that melancholy as her own. Her chest heaved with a rush of emotion that could only be described as a flurry of sucker punches. A single tear from her left eye ran its way down across Chara’s cheek. The pure and raw feeling of sadness caught her off guard, placing her free hand on her face, confirming her own doubts on herself. She had never cried, not even when she was alive all those years ago. She glanced quickly over to her partner, whose right eye carried its own weight of grief.
Frisk stared at the two, unmoving. She had nothing to say or add to their reunion. Her hand twitched, wanting to reach out but unsure how to bridge their pain. How could she? She was now an outsider, looking at an unfamiliarly familiar pair. She could not begin to understand the history they had. She could only feel their pain and grief. It hurt her down to her core. It was that gut-wrenching kind of feeling that only came with tragedy, and it made her cry. She didn’t want to cry in front of them, but she couldn’t help it. When she glanced over and saw Chara’s face, stained with the same tears flowing from her own, she called out to her: “Chara, you’re-”
“My Child,” Toriel’s voice suddenly interrupted. “It is really you. You are- you’re not… but you..” She stammered, still in shock, and recovering from her sobs, her voice slightly hoarse.
“I am here, Ms. Toriel. I had passed yes, and I have, by a stroke of fate, returned. I apologize for the turmoil this must be causing you.” Chara took a step back from Toriel, and performed a deep bow. She had been taught while she was still in the care of the Royal Family proper manners for many things, something ingrained deeply within her, even now, though her tone betrayed its usual polish.
Toriel shook her hands, flustered still, “No, no, My Child, rise! I am so glad to see you once more, whatever the circumstances may be. You must not apologize, this is a most wondrous occasion! Rather, I have to apologize to you for losing my composure.” She did not bow, catching Chara slightly off guard.
Chara could see Toriel’s attempt at being optimistic, and losing her somber mood. It was better than her sobbing, but felt forced. She balled her fists and mustered up her best shot at a small smile to help ease her, though it probably didn’t. “No need. I am simply glad we are able to be reunited after such… unforeseen consequences.”
“Consequences?” Toriel stood tall, raising herself from the ground, her tears dried. “Whatever could you mean? Your departure from this world was an accident, was it not?” Her ears twitched, her eyes searching Chara’s.
Chara’s eyes widened slightly. Had she never learned of the true story? The thought floated in her mind as quickly as an excuse was able to leave her lips- “Yes, of course, I was referring to my unfortunate illness. Who could have known it would lead to my untimely demise.” Chara’s lie flowed smoothly, and easily, like silk. A soothing deception was preferable to a truth that would deepen her already reopened wounds.
Toriel managed to smile warmly, though her mind was not quite at ease. She attempted to reach out to Chara, but retracted her hand quickly, seeing that she had flinched at the near-touch. Toriel’s smile faltered, and she cleared her throat. “Well, never mind the past. What matters now is the fact you are here with us again.” Toriel’s eyes darted quickly to Frisk, though it appeared she was expecting someone else, “Where are my manners? And who might this young beauty be?”
“I’m Frisk!” She answered quickly, wiping her tear stained face clean with a quick swipe. “It's nice to meet’cha!” She thrust her hand out towards Toriel with gusto.
“Oh my! What an energetic one! Frisk, my dear, it is very nice to meet you as well!” She shook Frisk’s hand with a small chuckle and a smile. “How are you acquainted with Chara?”
“Oh, well, ya see I actually-”
Chara quickly interjected, placing her body between Frisk and Toriel. She turned slightly to Frisk, her bright crimson side eye piercing straight through her, stopping her in place. “She and I awoke in the underground somewhere in the Ruins. We have no indication nor know of how or why.”
Frisk looked at Chara in confusion, but could not open her mouth in reply. Her body shrunk back reflexively, and she only managed to smile and nod her head in agreement. Toriel picked up on the obvious deflection, and decided not to mention it.
“I see. You two stumbled upon one another with a stroke of luck it would seem! Not unlike you and Asriel, Chara!” Toriel smiled, her hands clasped together. Her eyes appear to catch the end of the area more and more frequently. “I assume he will be joining us soon as well?”
The mention of Asriel’s name sent Chara’s stomach plummeting down to her feet. Her hands had become clammy and she could feel her naturally rosy cheeks lose their color all simultaneously. This was inevitable, Chara reasoned already she would undoubtedly bring his name up, but her body and mind was not as prepared as she had assumed. Her world began to spin around her, her eyes unfocused. She was unable to speak, her words swallowed by her regret.
Frisk looked at her partner, paler than any ghost. A wave of nausea hit her like a freight, as she barely kept her composure. She had seen Chara this exact way in front of the large door before reaching this area, and she had just pieced together the reason why. Her hand instinctively reached out to Chara’s, grasping it lightly, to no resistance. She looked to Toriel, “Um, no. There is no one else with us. I’m sorry if you were expecting someone else.”
Toriel’s ears twitched, and her face gave a faint look of resignation, her smile faltering. She took a small step back, and glanced down back at Chara, who could only manage to stand and stare forward. “Oh! My, um.. No, I was only assuming… I.. um.. I apologize. I should have known.. Of course he’s..” She stopped, her words seemingly caught in her throat. She looked back and forth between the two, the air around the three of them growing increasingly awkward and heavy. “Butterscotch!” She exclaimed randomly.
“Butterscotch?” Frisk asked, her nausea fading slowly, a slight smile forming at the random outburst.
“Yes, do you like it? Or perhaps cinnamon?” Toriel asked again, her tone suggesting the conversation had to go somewhere else quickly.
“Well, I like both, actually,” Frisk replied, knowing where this was leading, but going along with it to appease Toriel and hopefully lighten the mood.
“How lovely, I just so happen to be making a cinnamon butterscotch pie as we speak! Should be ready to throw in the oven by now. Allow me to treat you two; Chara always loved my pies!” She gestured behind her to a medium sized home, placed directly at the end of the area, her eyes darting back and forth between the two girls.
Frisk’s grasp on Chara’s hand tightened, as she looked back to her. She remained unmoving, staring forward. Frisk’s mouth curled downward in worry, but she managed to bring her smile back around. “Yes of course, we would love to! Is it possible to rest before that though? Me and Chara are a little tired from our journey here,” She suggested, hoping to give Chara some time and a quiet place to recollect herself.
“Of course, my child, anything you two desire. Please, follow me, I’ll show you to an extra room.” She turned around, her mood seeming to improve, and led the way to her home.
–
Frisk opened her eyes. She had fallen asleep during her retrospective thoughts, and felt slightly disoriented. She sat up in the bed, and gathered her surroundings, looking to the corner of the room. Chara was still there, though she was just as present as the unplugged lamp beside her.
“Chara?” Frisk said aloud, getting no reply. She rose off the bed, her small feet making a thud on the old wooden floors.
“Chara, are you okay? Please talk to me.” She pleaded. She could not feel anything in her soul, like half her heart had gone silent. This was a first since their shared experience. Typically, their emotions only conjoined together if it was a particularly strong one, but she could always at the very least feel Chara’s presence.
A very small, very faint sigh could be heard from the dark corner, “Whatever could you mean, dear Frisk?” Her voice whispered, hoarse from prolonged silence.
Frisk inched closer to the corner, “Oh don’t be like that, Chara. You know what I’m talkin’ about. You haven't said anything since Toriel mentioned Asrie-”
“Do not speak of his name.” Chara’s voice rang out coldly, dripping with malice.
Her voice caused Frisk to flinch backwards, a small pang of fear running down her spine. She still wasn’t used to hearing that kind of tone. She swallowed hard and inched closer, not backing down. “Why do you refuse to talk about him? It obviously bothers you, I’m just worried.”
“Spare me your condolences. I requested you not to speak of him, do not make me demand it.” Her head that had been firmly planted in her scrunched up knees turned, her crimson eyes piercing through the darkness.
“That was a pretty rude way to request something, but okay.” When Frisk was close enough to Chara, she sat on the floor next to her, leaning on the wall. Chara tensed up slightly, pulling her knees slightly closer to her chest. “I won’t ask again or say anything. If you want to talk to me, I’ll just be right here with ya.” Frisk tilted her head, her voice soft but earnest.
Chara rolled her eyes in frustration and unraveled herself, placing her hands on the ground and stretching her legs, “You will sit there for an eternity then. I have no desire to ‘open up’ to you, or whatever it is you say. Why do you believe you’ve earned such a privilege?”
Frisk giggled softly, earning a short huff of anger from Chara.
“You would laugh at me, as well?”
“You’re a real character ya know that? You are nice to me and my friend sometimes, other times you're my enemy and you can’t stand me. I never know how to act around you, Chara.” Frisk tapped her fingers on the floor, inching them closer to her partner. “I like that about you though. It really keeps me on my toes, ya know? I don’t know how I can earn your trust, but I do know that we’re in this together. We made a deal, remember? I just want us to be close and enjoy this adventure together.”
“I never agreed to be close with you…” Chara’s voice trailed off.
“We share a soul, silly. I think we are as close as two peas in a pod could be.” Frisk smiled again, her analogy earning herself a self satisfactory grin. Her fingers continued to wriggle closer to Chara’s, the darkness hiding her sneak attack. “I just don’t want you to hurt alone.”
Chara stayed silent for a time. Frisk’s annoying optimism and kind heartedness was not something she was surprised by, but it was still an unfamiliar feeling to her. She looked at her partner, eyes softer now having calmed her previous frustration. “Your rare moments of wisdom are clever as they are childish. Two peas, are we?” She rolled her eyes, hiding a small smirk. “I never much cared for peas.”
“You like my little comparison, huh? I thought it was pretty clever, too!” Frisk giggled.
“Humbleness is not your strongest trait, is it?” She sighed, “It was… refreshing, if not a little foolish.” She felt Frisk’s fingers creep onto her own, her body reflexively tensing up; her initial thought to swipe away quickly, yet strangely, she allowed herself to relax, leaving their hands touching.
Frisk took the opportunity to nudge herself closer to Chara, the two sitting side by side, hands together. Her face felt slightly warm, and she was secretly happy the room was so dark, so the embarrassment on her face would not show. They sat together for a time, silent, but a comfortable silence, until to Frisk’s surprise, Chara spoke first.
“Perhaps one day I will tell you the full story. We are indeed partners, and our foundation should be one of trust. So far, I suppose you have not given me a reason to distrust you.” She leaned her head on Frisk’s shoulder, her fingers tightening, earning an even deeper shade of red on her partner’s face. “For now, allow me some time for rest. This day was extraordinarily tiring.” She closed her eyes and drifted off, allowing the fatigue to finally wash over her.
Frisk couldn’t help the embarrassed grin from spreading on her hot face, and tried to instead focus on keeping her breathing calm and stable. She thought she would never get another chance to have Chara rely on her for support like this. It took her a few moments to return to normal, realizing Chara was as still as a statue, her breathing slow and rhythmic.
“She must’ve been exhausted, jeez.” Frisk said quietly to herself. “Guess I’d be too, given the circumstances.” She slowly leaned her own head on top of Chara’s. She did not feel tired after her nap, but dared not disturb Chara, and closed her own eyes. Surely enough, she began to fall back asleep as well after a short time, her body requiring more rest than she thought.
–
A small, quick knock came from the large door at the entrance of the room to no reply. The door slowly creaked open, Toriel poking her head through.
“Frisk, Chara?” She asked, before spotting the two in the corner, napping. They looked at peace, the trouble from the day washing itself away. She looked questioningly at the empty disheveled bed, but shook her head lightly. She smiled, her chest warm. “Ah, my apologies,” She spoke in a whisper. “Sleep well, enjoy these for when you awaken, my children.” She placed two plates on the floor, near the girls, each containing a large slice of warm, fresh baked cinnamon-butterscotch pie, and tip-toed out the room, closing the door.
The room was dark, and quiet; but it was warm.
Notes:
My apologies for the long wait for the chapter. I try to write little by little due to my schedule and overall flow of life right now. I will continue to write this story, I enjoy it greatly, and I hope it is improving my writing style as well. I hope you enjoy the character dynamics and direction so far. Any comments, suggestions, or criticisms are appreciated and welcome. Thank you all for checking out my story, and I hope you enjoyed so far!
Chapter 7: Reflections in Crimson
Chapter Text
Chara awoke to find herself in the same dark corner as before, still leaning on her partner, Frisk. She took a moment to let her mind wake up, and readjust to her surroundings. She did not know how long she had slept, nor when she had actually fallen asleep. Frisk was breathing softly, making faint noises- most likely dreaming. Chara lifted her head and looked around the room, now smelling of cinnamon, and noticed the two plates of pie sitting beside her and Frisk.
Ms. Toriel must have left these here. She did say something about pie I believe before taking us to this room.
Chara’s mind was a bit of a haze from their encounter with Toriel. The broad idea of what had transpired was still fresh, but the smaller details were fuzzy- like they were purposefully hidden away. She did not care to bring them into full view. Her body felt warm from the contact with her partner, her hand still clasped in Frisk's. A small feeling in her chest swirled. Comfort perhaps? She could not name it directly. It was a warmth of a different kind, but somewhat pleasant all the same. She breathed out, slowly, and released herself from Frisk, moving quietly out the room.
The light in the hallway was bright, and caused her to squint her eyes, needing to allow them to adjust. The uncomfortable feeling moved down to her stomach as she heard a familiar voice call out to her:
“Chara? My child, I see you’re awake. Did you rest well?” Toriel had asked from down the hall, spotting her. She seemed to act as if the situation was normal, merely calling out to the guest in her home.
Chara froze for a moment, and closed her eyes with a short sigh, to recalibrate and reset. “Yes, Ms. Toriel. I was just going to use the restroom, if that is acceptable.” She half-turned to look at Toriel, her voice maintaining its usual polish, though it did not help to settle the feeling in her stomach.
“Oh, of course. The restroom is all the way down the hall to the right. Please,when you are finished, you and Frisk come join me in the living room. I just started a very interesting new book!” She smiled brightly, offering her invitation.
“Thank you. I will inform Frisk.” Chara replied curtly, doing a short pivot and walking quickly to the restroom.
Chara splashed cool water on her face and stared down into the large sink. She needed the knot in her stomach to disappear. Her frustration in herself began to build as she tightened her grip onto the counter. She looked up into the mirror to see herself scowling, her hair disheveled. She huffed, her expression softening ever so slightly.
“It's you.” She said plainly.
She had not seen her own reflection in quite some time. She studied her own features, as if she was meeting someone new. Perhaps she was. She was no longer the same person as before, whether she cared to admit it or not. Her second chance at life, and she could hardly recognize herself. She allowed her face to relax, returning to her normal expression. She then smiled. It looked unnatural- forced even. She wondered if Frisk had ever thought similarly. She then opened her eyes wide, her crimson eyes reflecting in the light.
When she was younger, she was a topic of gossip due to them. Relentless teasing and questions. She grew to despise them. Even Asriel, who she did not want to remember at the moment, popped into her mind- he always told her they looked scary. She used that to her advantage, coercing him into whatever scheme she could think of. It was not until she met her unlikely remarkable partner, Frisk, had she ever thought of them as anything but a burden.
“So pretty, she claims,” She spoke quietly. “What beauty does she see in them? They are that of a demon’s. Her naïveté and the way she sees the world is just so…” her mind and eyes wandered in thought, unable to find the word she was searching for. She looked at herself once more, “endearing.” She concluded.
She thought perhaps this soul within her was affecting her mind, blending her thoughts with Frisk’s. She would never conceive herself believing in such a statement, yet here she was. In the short time they had known one another, she had an unmistakable change in her way of perceiving the world. She found herself enjoying Frisk’s ability to befriend all she came across. She allowed herself to play into Frisk’s annoying way of blabbering nonsense, adding to it rather than stopping her. She even was physically intimate with her, holding hands and leaning on her for a rest. When did she ever act that way around another? When was she ever vulnerable? Has she truly grown soft? Frisk was supposed to merely be a means to an end. Used to free herself and monster kind and take revenge on those she felt wronged her. Though, anyone she previously knew was long gone, dead and buried. Was there a point anymore? She did not know.
She washed her face and fixed her hair before leaving the restroom where she saw Frisk, standing in the hallway outside the room. She had a piece of pie in one hand, and a plate in the other. The overly sweet aroma wafting in the air, bombarding her scent.
“Something so heavy and sweet immediately upon waking? Your priorities are… not surprising.” Chara rolled her eyes, approaching her.
“Oh, Chara!” Frisk spoke, mouth half full of pie, taking a hard swallow. “There you are. I was wondering where you went, you left your slice!” She took another bite, uncaring.
“I simply needed to use the restroom; no cause for concern. Rather, do you not see the issue in your breakfast?”
“No?” Frisk responded like Chara had asked her an absurd question, finishing off her pie slice. “Are you upset I didn’t wait for you? Sorry, it was just sooo good!” She smiled.
“No that is not-” She groaned, realizing it was fruitless to continue. “Ms. Toriel requested our presence in the other room, would you care to join?”
“Sure! Do you want me to grab your pie?”
“No need. I am not hungry.”
Frisk considered taking the pie anyways, in case Chara changed her mind, but decided to leave it be. The two of them went to the living room, where Toriel sat in a large reclining chair, her focus ensnared into the book she held.
Frisk walked to the kitchen and placed her empty plate into the sink, before returning to the living room to see Chara sitting at the dining table. She looked like she was purposefully avoiding interacting with Toriel. She couldn’t blame her. Their interaction the day before was not the happy reunion it could have been. She walked over to Toriel and poked her large, fluffy arm.
“Toriel! Chara said ya needed us for something?” She spoke with a grin.
Toriel jumped lightly, her fur stiffening being sprung from her attention to her book onto Frisk, standing beside her. “Oh! Frisk, Chara, my apologies, I did not notice you two walk in!” She sat up straight in her chair. “I have this new book I’d like to share with the two of you, it is called: 101 Uses for Snails! Interesting, is it not?” She smiled, showing her book off proudly.
Frisk giggled, she remembered this book well. She might have even heard all 101 at this point. Nonetheless, she humored her, “Of course! Sounds really neat! Hit me with a snaily fact!”
Toriel’s face beamed, opening to a random page. “Well, right here it says, ‘Did you know, snail mucus has historically been used to treat wounds and burns’.”
Frisk faked a shiver down her body, “Gross! Snails are cute, but I wouldn’t want the slime all over me!” She laughed, imagining someone pouring a cup of snail slime on her head. “What about you, Chara?” She turned to her partner, minding her business at the table.
“I do not like snails. I would not enjoy the feeling of their mucus on my flesh, I would reject treatment even if that was my only option.” Chara side-eyed them, answering with an as-a-matter-of-fact tone, her lips twitching up despite herself.
“Hmm, yes, a very quaint Chara answer indeed,” Frisk mocked, attempting to imitate Chara’s normal way of speaking, rousing a small laugh from Toriel, and a huff from Chara.
“How about this one instead,” Toriel began, her chuckles peeking through her reading. “Only certain types of land snails are used for culinary purposes! They are cleaned- or purged- thoroughly to eliminate toxins and clean mucus!”
Frisk’s nose scrunched, imagining cleaning a bunch of snails. “I wonder if they taste any good.” She wondered out loud.
“That is an excellent question! I have often wondered that myself,” Toriel smiled, closing the book. “Snails sure are useful, are they not?”
Chara managed a small haughty laugh, “If they are so versatile, perhaps one has the ability to teach our dear Frisk some manners and sensibility.”
“Well maybe they could teach you to have a sense of humor!” Frisk retorted back quickly, smirking at herself proudly for her speed.
Chara’s face twitched, but she did not allow herself to react heavily in front of Toriel. “I have sense plenty, perhaps you are just not humorous. You should find a new passion.”
Frisk gasped lightheartedly, but somehow offended. Toriel could not help but laugh at the two’s interaction.
“You two seem to get along very well. I am glad Chara has found such a caring and sweet friend.” Toriel smiled, though it looked as if she was hiding a sadness behind it. “I believe the three of us will have a fine time here. I know we do not have much, but I promise you we will be happy! I’ve even gone ahead and thought of a curriculum for your education, I have always wanted to be a teacher you know-” Toriel began to ramble on.
Frisk’s smile dropped slightly, this was always a tough thing for her to do. She needed to tell Toriel that they were going to leave the Ruins, inevitably prompting her to try to destroy the exit, and having to force their way past her. She hadn’t considered that it would be even harder on her with Chara being back as well. Her soul beat in her chest, a swell of determination flowing through her, rousing a reaction from Chara as well. She looked at Frisk with a puzzled expression.
“Toriel,” Frisk interrupted.
Toriel stopped in her happy speech, with a look of embarrassment spreading on her face. “Oh, my, I did not mean to ramble on so! What is it, my child?”
“When can we leave the Ruins?” Frisk asked, her eyes meeting Toriel’s.
Chara raised her eyebrows slightly, surprised at Frisk’s sudden request. She figured her partner would want to stick around, eating all the overly sweet pie she could manage. She turned her body to face the two, interested in the outcome.
“Leave? But you…” Toriel peered over at Chara, hurt in her eyes. “You just arrived! Surely you do not mean immediately.” She looked around, a wave of panic slowly starting to take over.
“We need to leave, Toriel. We can’t stay here.” Frisk replied, her tone uncharacteristically stern.
“Um, uh, well, did you know that snails are also a great source of protein, and-”
“Toriel.” Frisk interrupted again.
Toriel’s face went from flustered to one of resolve immediately. “You two stay here. I must do something.” She declared, before running off in the other direction.
Chara watched with wide eyes as she ran off. She had never seen her move that quickly, but she barely had a moment to process before Frisk had grabbed her hand, yanking her out of her chair.
“Quickly, Chara! We have to follow her!” Frisk proclaimed, a hint of worry in her voice. She wasn’t sure if Toriel would act more recklessly than normal with Chara being here with her, and didn’t want to take that chance.
“Frisk! What is the meaning of this?” She yelped, almost tripping while being pulled along by the frantics of Frisk.
“Toriel is going to try to destroy the exit so we can’t escape! We have to stop her so we can move on! Don’t you remember?” Frisk yelled back at her, leading her down a basement level in the home.
Chara continued to run, being pulled by Frisk, her mind a haze. She could faintly recall a similar scene from Frisk’s previous adventures. Why did she keep finding herself unable to clearly remember the past?
At the end of the long corridor underneath Toriel’s home, the large goat woman stood in front of a large rocky entrance. It appeared to already have sustained some damage, as if it had been hit by something powerful. There was debris and dust scattered around, and the air smelled thick of strong magic.
The two girls stood behind Toriel, her large paws illuminated by small flames of fire magic, her back turned to them. She turned halfway, a menacing look in her eyes.
“Behind me is the exit of the Ruins. The only exit. I will destroy it, and you two will be safe here with me. Turn around, it is for your own good.” She stated, her voice echoing power against the crumbling walls of the Ruins.
“Toriel, please, we can’t stay here. We need to continue!” Frisk yelled.
Chara simply observed for now, peering at the magic Toriel was exuding. She had not seen her use her fire magic often. It was powerful, and uncommon to see. There was a reason she was once queen of the Underground, not just her marital status.
“For what reason must you go? Why must you leave me again?” She asked, yet it sounded like a plea. “I have finally been reunited with my child whom I lost years ago, and you would take her from me? It is too dangerous out there for you both!”
Toriel spoke like she was torn between her ideas. Was she just worried about losing Chara? Did she care for both of their safeties? No. She was simply a mother out of options, and backed into a corner.
“Toriel, please! We will be fine out there, we have each other! We…” Frisk had to act quickly and think of an excuse, “we could help free monsters!” She didn’t particularly like using that as a reason, she didn’t like the idea of people thinking of her journey as some righteous hero story.
“Free us?” She scoffed, her flames growing a tint brighter. “Every child who falls down here meets the same fate. They go out into the underground, they die. The king… Asgore, will surely kill you.” Hatred seeped from her tone, her breathing growing heavy.
Chara’s ears perked at the mention of Asgore. Of course, he would most likely be back at Home. Toriel must have left after her and Asriel’s death.
“Mr. Asgore?” Chara chimed in, breaking her silence. “He has never been aggressive. What causes you to believe he will harm us?”
Toriel’s expression turned to apparent annoyance. “He is trying to free the monsters himself. After losing you and.. Asriel, he vowed that any human who falls into the underground must die. He killed them in cold blood, and he will kill you as well. He is heartless, and spineless.”
“You would purport he would kill me as well? Surely you are blinded by rage. Do not claim what you have no evidence of.” Chara’s eyes and sharp-as-steel tone pierced through Toriel, causing her to falter in her magic.
Frisk looked at Chara. She didn’t think she would react like this, or even input at all. Maybe she would be able to convince Toriel herself.
Toriel took a deep breath, her flames starting to wildly surge in her paws. “Fine,” She breathed out. “You wish to leave so badly? Prove to me you are strong enough to survive.” She balled her paws tightly concentrating the flames within, and stood tall and imposing. “Take my life here, it is the only way for you to pass.”
Chara’s eyes grew wide. The woman she grew up with just told her and Frisk to take her life. Anger welled within her chest. How could she say something so selfish? How could she act this way? Her eyes were glued to Toriel’s stern expression, her anger beginning to boil over, before she felt a familiar, cold touch on her hand, grounding her back down. She looked over to see Frisk, with a soft smile on her face, as if she was saying “it’ll be okay”, grasping her hand.
Frisk felt the anger in her chest that Chara was building, and needed a way to simmer it down. She had never seen Toriel quite this hysterical, but she knew her heart would not be able to stand bringing harm to them, despite her claims. She could feel Chara’s heart slowly return to normal, and she let go of her hand.
“We can do this Chara. We don’t need to hurt her, we just gotta show her we are tough.” Frisk said, giving Chara a thumbs up, and a cheeky smile.
Chara’s doubt was not fully settled, but she was able to think rationally once more, due to Frisk’s unending optimism. She sighed, and rolled her eyes, but cracked a small smile and gave her a thumbs up in return. “You had best be correct, Frisk. I will not tolerate such disrespect, even from Ms. Toriel.”
The two girls looked to their opponent, prepared for what would come their way. This would be the first real fight, a test of their teamwork and journey so far.
Despite the opponent, Frisk and Chara were filled with determination.
Thervzin (Guest) on Chapter 1 Thu 31 Jul 2025 05:48AM UTC
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Your_Secret_AdmirerO7 on Chapter 3 Fri 18 Jul 2025 02:54AM UTC
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Thervzin (Guest) on Chapter 5 Thu 31 Jul 2025 07:59PM UTC
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Thervzin (Guest) on Chapter 5 Thu 07 Aug 2025 05:46AM UTC
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