Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hello there! Before I start with the story, I want to throw out some personal words, how I am going to plan out this project (no spoilers, of course) and the obligatory credit list for all the characters. Of course, if you're not interested in any of this, you can skip this foreword and go straight to the story.

***

To all the ones that decided to read this: Hello again! Although I only came in contact with the Undertale fandom about half a year ago (probably way too late, I know; I was too lazy to play Undertale for four whole years, huehuehue), I became quite invested in this game and many of the alternative universes. It just happened to be during the time in my life in which, well, let's say unpleasant things started to occur, causing me to get more and more apathetic about everything, even towards my beloved hobby of creative writing. However, playing Undertale, hearing its wonderful music every day, thinking about its characters that make me laugh and feel something for them... you could say the game really keeps me somewhat sane nowadays although you might argue that it developed into an unhealthy dependence or something like that. Life can be quite shitty, I guess.

You know, I swore to myself to not get tangled up with fanfictions that much anymore since I wanted (and still want) to work more on my original stories. Also, despite having written some myself in the past, I never really cared about other's fanfictions because, well, you probably already know about their bad reputation among some people. Regardless, I have started to read a couple of them in the hope to fill the empty hole in my heart and it... actually works somewhat, at least. I got to know a lot of great stories, for example those about the Afterdeath couple by Golden_AU (it became my OTP; thanks for that, mate) or Harrish6's interpretation of 'the Forced God of Destruction' (was really sceptical about that idea at the beginning, but man, the new version is so well written up until now; hope to see more of it in the future). All of them help me to get through my monotonous days, so thank you all for it, I guess. Huehue~

Additionally, creating a fanfiction means, to me at least, to express your deep passion towards the universe you're writing about. Therefore, it is almost like a kind of love letter, as cheesy as it may sound. So, uh, to all of you creators: Accept this story as such. And, you know, I hope that there are some people out there who are maybe in a similiar position like me and enjoy my work as a neat distraction from the exhausting gray reality. It just would make me happy knowing I am doing something purposeful in my life.

***

Now then, let's go from the embarassing emotional stuff to some dry facts: First off, I divided this story into three phases, having overall ten arcs plus prologue and epilogue. The plot of the first phase (prologue and the first three arcs) is already planned out; it will include about 50 to 60 chapters, so if I manage to pace everything correctly, every phase will have this length, more or less.

So that you gain more references: In average, a single chapter has around 20 to 30 pages (DIN A5, font size 12). There may be some with a ridiculous length or really short ones there and then, but I try to keep this average number as best as I can (can't promise though, because I always calculate wrong when it comes to chapter length). Now, one arc can have around ten to 20 chapters and they get longer the nearer they come to the end of a phase.

To summarize this mess: three phases with ten (or twelve) arcs and all in all a chapter length of 150 if I predict this correctly.

For a chapter with average length, I need a little less than a week, provided I have a certain amount of motivation (which is quite high at the moment I write this introduction). So somewhat realistically spoken, I might need at least three years (with high motivation) to finish this story. This probably sounds pretty insane, right? Maybe you can guess already that I can't promise to get this ever done. Nevertheless, I will try at least. As long as my self-confidence doesn't get in the way, as long as my need for escapism remains and as long as I stay determined (sneaky reference there; I'm starting off great, huehue), this story will continue.

***

Now: the holy list of credits (which might be edited as time goes on)!

• Original Undertale - Toby Fox
• Ink!Sans - Comyet / Mye Bi
  
• Error!Sans, Geno!Sans and Fresh!Sans - LoverOfPiggies / CrayonQueen
  
• Æther!Sans - me
  
• CORE!Frisk - DokuDoki
• Dream!Sans and Nightmare!Sans - Jokublog
• Swap!Sans and Swap!Papyrus - Popcornpr1nce
• Cross!Sans and X-Tale!Chara - Jakei95
• Killer!Sans - Rahafwabas
• Dust!Sans - Ask-DustTale
• Horror!Sans - Sour-Apple-Studios
• Science!Sans - TalkingSoup
• Underfell - Vic the Underfella
• Swapfell - Khoppang
• Reaper!Sans - Renrink
• Color!Sans - superyoumna

***

Well, I've said everything I wanted to say. Hope ya'll enjoy the story as much as I enjoy writing it (seriously, the characters are just so fun to write; I love all of them, huehue)~

Chapter Text

Prolog

***

Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔

Well, now he had done it this time.

Probably not the wisest idea to take the hit since Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ was lying helplessly on the ground now as a result of it, his whole body feeling numb due to the pain, his vision becoming a blur and the noises of the on-going battle in the background so far away.

It was not the first time Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ had acted on impulse and suffered the consequences of it. His friend D̸̢͓͒̆r̸̙̖͊͂ē̴̟̻ḁ̷͙̇m̴̩̏͌ always lectured him on this and recommended to stop for just a few seconds and think about the situation before doing something stupid he would regret later. Huh, maybe a good thing then that D̸̢͓͒̆r̸̙̖͊͂ē̴̟̻ḁ̷͙̇m̴̩̏͌ was too occupied with fighting to see Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ like this since he was pretty sure he had lost a limb or two... although he could not quite confirm it in his delirious state.

Like he said, he had really done it this time.

But, you see, sometimes, you just did not have the time to sit down and think. Additionally, when a sudden inspiration or, dare he say, emotion flared up in his empty core, Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ could not resist and had to chase this feeling before it vanished like paint being washed away. And in this case, if Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ had not taken the hit-

...

Wait, what was he doing again? What was he thinking about?

He groaned when he tried to move.

Right, he was injured pretty badly.

Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ let his heavy-lidded eyes wander over the scenery. Thousands upon thousands of sparkling stars resided above him, some of which enveloped by a foreign gloomy energy before dissolving into nothingness. For a moment Ï̶̞̕n̵̮̣̅͒k̷͚̠'̵̬̀s̵͇̝̋ body shook violently as if it responded to the universe fighting back against their foe. Then it went numb again. This was when he finally noticed the black blur standing right before him.

Had it been there the entire time?

Despite Ï̶̞̕n̵̮̣̅͒k̷͚̠'̵̬̀s̵͇̝̋ vision being a fuzzy mess, he could locate a pair of mismatched eyes, glowing a bright red, with blue stains coming out of them, looking almost like streams of tears, yellow teeth and various particles, or rather glitches, floating around the strange black thing.

Then the realization hit hard.

E̶͔͎͒r̵̢̰̥̮̔r̵̥̒̾͝ó̷͙̮̌͗r̸͚͈͝.

E̶͔͎͒r̵̢̰̥̮̔r̵̥̒̾͝ó̷͙̮̌͗r̸͚͈͝ was standing there and just... staring.

Thanks to his presence, Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ remembered again what happened just a minute ago. Somewhat. And he really wished he could see his face better.

Huh, apparently E̶͔͎͒r̵̢̰̥̮̔r̵̥̒̾͝ó̷͙̮̌͗r̸͚͈͝ said something, but Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ did not quite catch that. However, he forced a weak grin and answered regardless. Whatever he had uttered caused E̶͔͎͒r̵̢̰̥̮̔r̵̥̒̾͝ó̷͙̮̌͗r̸͚͈͝ to become more distressed and to glitch even harder. Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ smiled a bit brighter, and if his ribs did not feel like they had been crushed, he would have laughed for sure.

Yep, whatever the others might say, it was totally worth it, just for this reaction alone.

Unfortunately, the glitchy D̸̼͝e̸̝͊ͅs̷̬͚̅ẗ̷̢͓́r̸̨͠o̷͖̒̀y̵̥̬͂̅ê̶͍̳r̴͇͚̓ ran away, or to be more precisely, ran to the huge dark mist behind him to join the combat, leaving Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ alone on the cold ground. The C̶̚ͅṛ̶̘̏̓e̴̻̱̔̃ã̷̜͈ţ̸̪͐̍o̴̫̿r̷̪̯͑ followed his movements with an eager gaze and kept watching from his uncomfortable position. It really was a unique sight, one you never could have imagined, even in your wildest dreams: the S̶̫̃͆t̸͖̍͝ā̴͉r̷͔̥̊͑ ̸̠̫̇S̵̖̓a̶̳̐n̷̡̓s̶̳̽ę̶̢̍s̴̹͍̃͆ fighting alongside with the N̵̤̲̄̒i̶̯͍̎́g̴͈̽h̶͍̕̕t̶̮̾m̸̡̘̍ā̷̖̚r̴̬̎ͅę̸͛̅s̵͖͓͂ and the D̸̼͝e̸̝͊ͅs̷̬͚̅ẗ̷̢͓́r̸̨͠o̷͖̒̀y̵̥̬͂̅ê̶͍̳r̴͇͚̓ for the fate of the whole multiverse...

…

...or rather what was left of it.

A part of Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ wanted to capture this one-in-a-lifetime moment in a picture, however, an even stronger part wanted to stand up and fulfill his duty, protect his precious universe and its creations. Regardless of his wishes, his body would not obey. Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ could do nothing except watch. He felt so... weak. Utterly useless. What a great protector he was.

Minutes, hours or days had passed, he really did not know, when suddenly, the ground began to shake. First gently, almost soothingly, then it became stronger and stronger as the seconds went by. Like being hit by a lightning strike, a burning sensation filled Ï̶̞̕n̵̮̣̅͒k̷͚̠'̵̬̀s̵͇̝̋ entire being, causing him to let out a deafening scream and his body to spasm.

He did not need clear senses to know that the universe was dying. It was dying, it was dying, it was falling apart right before his eyes and until the very end, he could not do a single thing about it.

He failed terribly, he could not even do his only job right.

He failed the creators, their creations, all the universes... his companions...

He failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed he failed-

The ground gave in right underneath him, but a fair amount of magic strings kept Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ from falling into black nothingness. Blue strings... E̶̤̊r̸̖̥̈́r̵̤͂̋ö̸̱͔́̄r̵̬̽'̶̪̈́̇s̶̨̢̽̓ strings...

This really was the end, was it not? 

Inky tears rolled down his cheeks. 

Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔, who still was wrapped in the strings which had nothing to hold onto anymore, and all the others started to fall, fall, fall...

On the very edge on his consciousness, he recognized a black-colored hand reaching out for him. Ḯ̵̧͚̬͗̍̕n̷̳͂͆k̵͚͙̔ reached back...

…

And lost his grip on reality.

…

***

Loading...

ÆTHERVERSE

Continue

Settings

> T̶̨̼̀͆̏͘͠ͅͅr̸̟̱̱̬̺̯̓u̴̠͖̍͌̒̕e̸̬̘͗͂͒ ̴̡̧̖̭̬̔͒͝R̵̤̼̞̺͊e̶̢̨̙̺̫̹͋ṡ̶͋̀̓͜͝ë̸̗͈̮́̿t̷̝̤̟̥̫͋̃̈͛̏̚ <

***

Chapter Text

Prolog

***

Long ago, two races ruled over the land: HUMANS and MONSTERS.

One day, civil war broke out between the two races.

After a long battle, the humans were victorious.

They banished the monsters and created two territories: the 'Human District' and the 'Monster District', separated by a giant wall.

Many years later...

EBOTT CITY (the capital)

190X

Rumours say humans who land in the Monster District never return...

***

Chapter Text

Prolog

***

Frisk

Frisk awoke on a familiar bed of golden flowers. Their senses were too numb to recognize anything other than that at first, but once they had recovered more or less... they could not believe their eyes.

It was a dark night with only a few stars shining, the rest were hidden behind clouds and smoke. Frisk was surrounded by ruins of houses, and when they turned around, they saw a giant wall; its incredible height made the child's head spin. In the distance, they could hear loud engines... cars?

Their head hurt badly... like several memories overlapping and mixing together in a weird mess: a seemingly endless fall into darkness and a fall from the top of the wall, two separate occurrences which had somehow taken place at the same time and somehow... not.

Frisk frowned. Nothing made any sense. Despite everything, they were still them, but...

They knew about this world and somehow not.

They knew about other worlds and somehow not.

They knew about timelines starting and ending, but after the supposed end, something new had begun-

The sudden realization made them gasp. Frisk had been so sure that they would not survive and still, they had ended up here. Alive. By that logic, those who had been with Frisk must be alive somewhere too!

They and... and it.

The entity was probably alive as well.

Would it still be a threat to this world? Would everything just end again? Frisk... could only guess.

...

Finally, they stood up. Not knowing for sure what would happen next, what they would find, clinging onto the small suspicion that made their SOUL pound, filled Frisk both with nervousness and excitement. A new adventure had started for them. Furthermore, the sound of their echoing steps on the gloomy streets gave them even more DETERMINATION.

***

After Frisk passed a flickering street lamp, a voice they knew just too well called out for them, „*Howdy!“

So they turned around and spotted a little flower, which had not been there before, in the middle of the light circle, beaming at them. Although it was not an ordinary flower but a mechanic one: Its head was a gear that rotated frequently and its wavy, spiky petals shone in a metallic golden color. Curiously, Frisk approached the familiar flower.

„*I'm Flowey, Flowey the flower!“ he introduced himself in a friendly manner. However, his voice gave off a strange echo as if Flowey spoke through a metal filter. Despite the uncanny vibes, Frisk waved shyly at him and smiled a little.

„*Hmmm...“ Flowey watched them with his yellow eyes, which never blinked once. „*You're new to the Monster District, aren'tcha? Golly, you must be so confused!“ His gear head rotated faster due to his excitement. „*Someone ought to teach you how things work around here! I guess little old me will have t-“

Flowey's speech was interrupted by a loud noise coming from the sky. Frisk covered their ears instantly and looked up with fear written acrosd their face. A giant oval balloon, no, an airship was flying above them; its turbines produced deafening sounds and the red lights on the sides were blinking rapidly.

Flowey waited silently while his previous smile had turned into a displeased line. He even tried to frown but since the little flower was not able to move his face that much, he sighed instead (although any sound was swallowed by the airship). After the flight device had gone by however, silence returned. The edges of Flowey's mouth rose once more.

„*Well, as I said, someone needs to teach you how- uh...,“ he began, but trailed off once he saw Frisk curled up into a ball and shaking uncontrollably. „*Buddy, you okay there?“

The frightened child did not answer because they still had their ears covered.

„*...Don't tell me you're scared of the airship? These things come and go, like, every hour. How do you even live in Ebott City like this?“

Still no reaction. Flowey sighed again.

„*Geez, why do I always get the tiring ones? Well, doesn't matter.“ In the next moment, two shining metal tendrils emerged from the ground, slowly reaching out for the motionless child. Flowey's smile widened as much as it could while the light of the street lamp casted a sinister shadow across his face. „*After all, it just makes my job much easier~“

More and more, the tendrils creeped towards Frisk...

...until Flowey was hit by a fireball and sent flying with a surprised shriek.

„*What a terrible creature, torturing such a poor, innocent youth...,“ a female voice spoke softly. Once she laid her gaze upon Frisk, she hurried towards them and hugged them tightly. „*There, there. Do not be afraid, my child. It cannot hurt you anymore.“

Subconsciously, they hugged back. When they felt familiar fluffy fur, they looked up. A huge white goat monster with kind ruby red eyes smiled reassuringly at them. „*I am Toriel, caretaker of the Ruins.“

For a moment, Frisk held their breath. Although it should be not a surprise to meet her here, her appearance and warm motherly embrace stroke an emotional and nostalgic core in their soul, so naturally, Frisk weeped even harder.

„*There, there...“

At the same time, Flowey kept himself hidden in the background and watched the scene unfold. He huffed.

After some minutes had passed, Toriel took Frisk's tiny hand in her giant paw, squeezed slightly and started to guide them through the place. To Flowey's utter surprise, Frisk looked around and waved at him once they spotted him farther away. With an even grumpier noise, the flower vanished into the ground.

„*You are the first human to come here in a long time,“ Toriel explained. „*It is for the better if you stay at my home for this night. It is not that far away. Say, do you prefer cinnamon or butterscotch?“

Frisk remained quiet for most of the time, occasionally answering her questions. They rather studied their surroundings and steeled their awareness so they would be prepared for any more sudden loud noises. On their way, they spotted more monsters wandering around: a jumpy frog with a giant head named Froggit, a scared flying bug creature with thin little arms called Whimsun... The familiarity of the place and its inhabitants made Frisk relax.

But suddenly, the dark streets were illuminated by another light source from above. The moon? No, it appeared to be much brighter than that, yet not quite as bright as the sun. What was going on? „*Oh my,“ Toriel exclaimed, surprised. „*Look, my child, are the stars not pretty tonight?“

Frisk followed her gaze and gasped when they saw a huge rift in the sky. It probably extended several kilometers and its inside revealed a different kind of night sky: colors changing all the time, from dark blue to cyan to violet to pink, shining like an aurora. Hundreds of stars were spread across the rift and sparkled more beautifully than the normal ones outside.

It was... mesmerizing.

„*I see something like this for the first time,“ Toriel said. „*I haven't expected to witness such a beauty in a big city like this. Normally, smog prevents the stars to be seen on most days. My, we are really lucky today, are we not?“

Both stood there for a while to watch this strange phenomenon until the upcoming clouds hid the rift and darkened Ebott City once more. And so, hand in hand, Toriel and Frisk continued their way.

However, the former did not notice the child's thoughtful expression.

***

Chapter Text

Prolog

***

...But a human child named Frisk made it all the way through the monster capital to their leader Asgore Dreemurr and despite the dangers and hostility, never losing their kindness or determination.

Frisk gave them hope for a better future between monster- and humankind and decided to act, with the help of all of their new friends, as an ambassador.

Three years have gone by and now, the doors between the two districts stand wide open, allowing the partnership to blossom again.

It is still a long way to go. However, in the restless times of technical progress, steam engines running non-stop and airships inhabiting the skies, of the glorification of romanticism and adventure tales, of free-minded and peculiar individualists, changes can occur faster than expected...

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Three years later...

Ink

Early in the morning, when the first rays of the warm summer sun are shining on the high buildings of the capital, the busy city life in the area of Roadin starts to kick in steadily: Bunny merchants are opening their inns and shops, salesmen and scholars are racing in an incredible speed to their workplaces and universities, most of them located in the district's center area, 'New Home' (everyone knows Asgore is not good with names), and the city guards, mostly consisting of giant dog monsters, are patrolling to guarantee safety (although some of them are hanging out at 'Grillby's', playing poker and smoking dog treats, but do not worry, the barkeeper will send them back to work eventually).

Also, after the reunion between the two races happened a while ago, humans have started to visit the Monster District out of curiosity; now almost half of the passersby you see here in Roadin are humans, buying sweet cinnamon buns at the bakeries, interacting with other monsters (also wondering why the neck of Lesser Dog gets taller when you pet him) and educating themselves at libraries about the foreign and fascinating magic of monsters.

Indeed, it seems like another peaceful morning.

Until, at eight am, the infamous clock tower begins to ring to greet this new day in a cheerful and refreshing manner.

Loudly.

Absurdly loud.

So loud in fact that even Asgore can hear it all the way to New Home while he is watering his flowers in his garden at this exact moment and jumps in surprise, thus dropping his can.

Every citizen knows when you want to sleep properly, you wear ear plugs. It is the very first advice people give you when you move to the capital's Monster District (the second most important one being to never talk to a monster called Jerry). However, there will always be individuals who are not willing to learn and repeat their mistakes over and over again.

Like Ink, for example, who just has opened his eyes widely in shock before he realizes that it is just the stupid clock tower again, so with a grumpy, unintelligable noise, the skeleton monster puts his blanket over his head and rolls over to the other side of his bed, proceeding to sleep... only to land face first on the ground because his bed is too small. (Please do not be like Ink.) Without moving his body, he peeks up and looks at this comfy little room with tired eyes. Besides his table and commode, the floor is covered with books, art supplies and dozens and dozens of papers. When Ink's gaze reaches the corner across from him, his expression brightens up.

„G'morning, Penny,“ he greets his giant pen (since Ink does not like her being objectified), almost as big as him, whose vertical golden and dark red stripes are gleaming in the light. „Well this time, the fall wasn't so, heh, ground breaking, am I right?“

He fingerguns at her. Silence.

„Yeah, you're right. Not my best joke.“ With that, Ink plants his face into the pile of papers again. Somehow he does not feel as tired as before, but he still does not want to stand up just yet, so instead, he starts to hum a random melody while swinging his legs back and forth and waving his arms to make a paper angel, which makes him giggle like a child. To his defense, Ink once thought about tiding his room, but then he heard about this term, you know, creative chaos? And since he adores every activity and every little thing you can put your creativity in, well, why not put it in your unhealthy messy tendencies? Besides, these two words form an alliteration, so bonus points!

Finally he decides to stand up from his covered floor whose color he forgot long ago (no seriously, how does it even look like again?) and stretches his tired bones. From the corner of his eye, Ink notices his precious dream diary, laying lonely on his nightstand, which reminds him to write yesterday's dream down before it can get lost in the spheres of his goldfish brain again. Motivated, he picks up a nearby pen from the ground, sits down on his bed and starts a new entry:

'06/07/191X

Ink's Dreamlog #968

Same as dream #1. Nothing new. Still too blurry to see anything.'

With this, his daily entry ends. Disappointing, actually. Why was he so excited a moment ago? Ink frowns at the page. There are days on which his dreams are so wild and crazy that he could write a small novella about them (which he actually did). His adventurous dreams are, in fact, Ink's greatest source of inspiration for his stories. Yes, he may be an artist, but at the same time he is an author and storyteller too! Anyway, sometimes dreams are not that exciting or just reoccur without anything new happening.

...Although, is it normal when the same dream reoccurs for about the hundredth time?

…

What has he been thinking about?

Anyway, Inks shrugs it off and puts his diary on his nightstand again before leaving his room and entering his bathroom to splash cold water on his bony face. A look in the mirror reveals the ever-changing symbols of his eyes, reflecting his current emotions. One blink and they change: a yellow star and a light blue oval. Blink. An orange moon and a turquoise sun. Blink. Again, a light blue oval and a yellow circle.

While staring at his own image, Ink subconsciously rubs his right cheek where a permanent black stain settled down a long time ago due to careless usage of his magic. At least Ink is not so dependent on it now than in his earlier years, so no more unwanted smudges on his face or clothes. Blink. For a moment, one of his eyelights shows a brown spiral, but in the next moment, it is gone again.

Ink returns to his little chamber without thinking about it. On his chair, semi-neatly folded, are lying his clothes, which he picks up in good spirit to put them on. First he buttons up his white shirt (its sleeves have the exact same pattern as his dear Penny) and attaches his suspenders on his pants (again, the same design; Ink likes to go with partnerlook). Next he puts on his black boots and his fingerless gloves, followed by a brown jacket with fluffy fur on its ends around his hips. Now the most important items: his long beige scarf (tainted with even more black ink magic and not even twenty wash cycles could get them off), his unused but not needless goggles around his neck, his cap with three stars on it and last but not least, a bandolier with all of his vials of paints on it, including a little bag for pens and brushes.

Some may say Ink wears way too many unnecessary accessories that are just bothersome in his daily activities and a skeleton monster does not really feel temperature that much to ever need that ridiculous amount of clothing layers, but truth to be told... these people are absolutely right. This includes for example his friend Dream, who always looks at Ink with disappointment written on his face whenever he trips over his own scarf before helping him up (really a reliable pal), or his former classmates and instructors when he was still visiting the academy in New Home (again, why always these weird looks directed at him?). However, this does not matter to him, really. Sometimes, you must sacrifice safety measures for art and individuality (he came up with this phrase after tripping over and falling down a staircase, Dream and Blue sent him to a hospital after that. Man, that had been a lot of stairs).

Soon enough, Ink stops thinking about his past and out of habit, picks up one end of his scarf to check his most recent notes:

'- buy new groceries (important: new sketchbooks!!!)

- art lessons on weekend days, 2 pm

- monster and human reunion anniversary on September 15, no work on this day!

- Sci brings new paint on Monday'

Ink's eyelights change to green exclamation marks. Today is Monday, is it not? Huh, maybe it is not so bad then that the stupid clock woke him up since Sci likes to come early. Grinning, Ink walks down the wooden stairs to his shop on the first floor. As always (well, almost always), the unpleasant things in life seem to turn into pleasant ones on their own when given time to recover.

Just when Ink bathes in this reassuring thought, he stumbles over his scarf again and falls.

Yeah... almost always.

***

Meanwhile Ink has settled down in front of his counter, reading an art magazine and waiting for potential customers. Only a few minutes later, as predicted, the shop bell rings and his old acquaintance Sci, wearing his usual light brown coat and emitting a strong scent of coffee, enters the store.

„Here comes the delivery,“ said friend announces with a tired grin. „Morning, by the way.“

„Good morning to you too!“ Ink answers joyfully while watching him putting a suitcase on the counter and opening it to reveal dozens of vials of all the colors you can possibly imagine.

„Well, how is your condition doing? Emotions balanced? Not one too strong or too weak?“ he asks.

„Nope! Everything's fine!“ Ink responds, filling his almost empty vials on his strap with the new paints. Once he is done, he takes a tiny sip from eleven of them, leaving out the white and drinking a bit more from the yellow color, and feels instantly more energetic and motivated for the upcoming day.

„Hmmm,“ Sci hums thoughtfully and studies the other carefully. „Say, you're drinking less from the pink one, aren't you?“

„Uh,“ Ink utters, taken aback by this sudden question. His eyes become a gray exclamation mark and a violet drop. „Yeah, so...?“

His friend sighs. „You've been doing this for a long time, huh? Last time I was here, I saw some leftovers on the floor and catching dust.“ He leans over the counter to look at the other side and truly, near Ink's feet, stands a box that contains the said vials, some of them even untouched. Sci raises a bonebrow at that. „Hmm, figures.“

„Well, I guess I'm not really in need of them...?“ Ink says while scratching the back of his head sheepishly.

„I can understand you taking less from the black one. Doesn't feel that funny, I can imagine,“ Sci explains with a worried expression. „But pink is not so bad, you know. And you need to drink a fair amount regularly. Otherwise, your body will accustom to not having it and, well, you can become apathetic to it.“

Since Ink remains silent, Sci adds with a sly wink, „With the right usage, pink can be just as fun as yellow or orange. Just try it out, could be a fulfilling experience.“

As a response, Ink snorts and giggles (hoping his laugh sounds earnest enough) before exclaiming, „I got it, I got it.“ Then he rests his chin on his palm while looking suggestively at him. „What kind of fun? The one you have with your boyfriend during your working hours~?“

As Ink expected, Sci's face is immediatly covered with a bright blue blush. He coughs and pretends to look at an invisible pocket watch. „Ohboythatlatealreadygottagotothelab,“ he babbles nervously and turns around to leave the store quickly, but almost knocks over a shelf with writing materials in the process, getting a honest laugh out of Ink this time. Before leaving however, Sci looks back at his friend with a serious expression again.

„Please remember what I have told you, will you? About the paint I mean,“ he stresses.

„Will do!“ Ink replies and takes a nearby pen to write it down on his scarf, which makes Sci's face relax again.

„Great. Don't want your dads to call me at night times again 'cause they worry about you. Well then, see you around.“

„Bye!“ Ink keeps waving for a while even when he is already gone. Then he slowly puts his hand down on his strap, his smile vanishing as he takes the vibrant pink paint and stares at it. Experimentally, Ink jiggles it a bit and watches the little bubbles go up. Next, he opens the heart-shaped lid and leads the bottle to his mouth... only to stop before actually drinking it. Ink puts the vial back, tapping it, and resumes to read his magazine while humming a happy tune.

No one was there at the moment to see that the artist's normally colorful eyes turn to white pinpricks for a split second.

***

Until late afternoon, no customers arrive. Actually not that unusual since Ink's stationery shop is not that big and sometimes just... gets forgotten in the giant mess of other businesses. The ones in New Home probably have a larger and richer collection to offer than his but... nonetheless, Ink is still proud of his 'Doodlesphere'! Eventually, the day will come on which his comfy, wondrous realm gets the appreciation it deser-!

„*Hey, you're listening to me, mister?!“ A voice suddenly interrupts Ink's thoughts, which makes him blink irritated multiple times. The artist did not even notice the bird monster coming in. His name is Sootdrake, easy to recognize by his huge puffed up head and his feathers always being covered with gray soot.

„Oh, sorry,“ Ink finally replies and laughs a bit before checking his scarf for notes. „Hm, your lesson is on Saturday again or did you want something else?“

„*Yeah, about that...“ Sootdrake's wary little eyes wander in different directions. „*...My dad kinda lost his job recently, so we won't be able to pay for the lessons... sorry.“

„Oh,“ is all Ink manages to say. Perhaps he should add something to this (console him, maybe?) but since a certain feeling is lacking, he stays quiet.

„*Yeah...,“ Sootdrake murmurs.

Because the silence makes the situation even more awkward, Ink decides to speak up although he talks more to himself, „It's kinda strange how so many workers are struggling lately...“

„*Y'know, a lot of factories and companies are losing their money and are forced into bankruptcy,“ the bird monster whose eyebrows twitch angrily explains. „*And people like my dad have to pay for it.“

„But why?“ Ink asks with a frustrated undertone. „Aren't we living in prosperous times right now? So why do people have financial problems all of a sudden?“

„*Uh, well, have you heard of 'Blue Strings', mister?“

Ink's eyes become curious question marks. „No? What's that?“

„*Seriously never heard of them?“ Sootdrake utters, surprised. „*You know, it's this one company that makes contracts with others, mostly inventors, don't ask me why, and invests money in their projects. Although they have really helped some to get to the top, well, many and I mean many others aren't that lucky and get into pretty deep debts...“

„I see,“ Ink mumbles while writing this name on his scarf so he can find out about this obscure company later.

„*Just don't get into trouble, mister,“ he warns, slightly worried. „*Don't get involved with Blue Strings, they just mean bad news.“

„Hmm, will do,“ the skeleton mutters, absentminded.

„*I, uh, will get going now. My dad will send the rest of the teaching money to you next week when he gets his last pay check,“ Sootdrake states before intending to leave. „*Goodbye, mister, and, you know, take care and so.“

„Bye,“ Ink replies and waves, but cannot bring himself to smile this time.

Again, a customer has left him for good and it is not that long ago since the last one, and last one, and last one... A dark blue teardrop and a red whirl appear in his eyes as he pouts. Under these circumstances, is there anything Ink can even do? Is there anything he can do to protect his Doodlesphere?

…Well, he has never been good in protecting something anyway. That is why the artist failed at the academy to become a city guard, after all. In his dreams, he may be a great protector of... something, the universes as it seems, but in real life, Ink feels... useless.

...Now the lack of feeling he had while talking to Sootdrake really starts to kick in. It bothers him endlessly. After taking a generous sip from the dark blue paint, Ink finally decides to take the pink one and puts the tip of his tongue in it. It tastes... awfully sweet and a shiver runs down his spine. It reminds him of this sort of medicine with an artificial taste of strawberries or bananas, which tries to trick little kids into drinking them with its deceptive sweetness. However, it will always, always taste... false.

Putting his head on the counter, Ink lets out a long sigh while allowing the paints to fill the empty hole that is his being. Until closing time, the Doodlesphere remains quiet... and forgotten.

***

The next day, Ink wakes up even more motivated, yesterday's worries completely pushed aside (not even another greeting from the ground can deminish his mood). Straight after he has opened his store, the artist sits down behind the counter, takes a sketchbook and opens it.

This time, Ink dreamed about an epic fight again, one where the fate of an entire AU (apparantly short for 'alternative universe') had rested upon his shoulders and he won! Now the artist is inspired to draw some of the scenes he vaguely remembers. Luckily (and weirdly) enough, Ink's dream memory works somewhat reliably. Maybe the whole thing about dreams being forgotten very easily is an exaggeration? Or maybe Ink is just an exception to the rule? This would be funny, considering his otherwise pretty bad memory in reality. Perhaps he should see this as a compensation or whatever.

After drawing a rough sketch, Ink continues with proper outlines, so he turns his attention to the one skeleton in the picture whom he is almost always fighting against in his dreams. He remembers him being called 'the Destroyer' occasionally. His longtime rival, as it seems. The thought alone makes Ink's eyes change rapidly in excitement. Just how much fun would his life be if it was like in his dreams? Visiting new AUs every day, going on adventures with friends, fighting enemies and protecting whole worlds... It sounds even more entertaining than being a simple city guard! Now that would be a fulfilling existence!

At the moment, the artist is emphasizing the crazed look on his enemy's face, the odd glitches around his dark body that are always present, the 'error' signs sticking on him... It took some time and hard concentration on Ink's part to properly remember the Destroyer's appearance but fortunately, his nemesis has distinctive characteristics which are easy to recognize. By now, the artist has drawn several sketchbooks full of their fights or other situations they found themselves in. Ink snorts when he recalls some of them:

One time, him and Glitchy were fighting in a cave filled with waterfalls. After a powerful strike from Ink, the other was thrown into the water and started to, well, glitch so hard he fainted and then floated motionlessly on the water surface for about half an hour (Ink was laughing all the while). However, once Glitchy had woken up, he chased the cackling protector through the whole cave (Ink ended up defeated with several bruises and stomach pain).

Another time, Ink was visiting an AU where candy and chocolate were literally growing on trees and, by accident, he saw the Destroyer there, happily collecting the sweets, stuffing them into his jacket and wearing a grin like a child receiving a present from Santa himself on Gyftmas. Fascinated by this, Ink decided to stand there and watch silently... until he was spotted by his foe, who stared at him in shock, glitched again while making incoherent noises (which kind of sounded like a dying washing machine?) and then made a portal in which he vanished. The expression Glitchy had is also Ink's very first picture of him...

Ah, good ol' memories dreams...

With a sense of nostalgia on his side, the artist finishes his drawing with one last touch: strings that are the Destroyer's signature move, connected to his fingers...

…

These are... blue strings.

…

Huh, weird. Where did he hear that before?

…

Ah, right, that one company. What a strange coincidence. Would be even stranger if...

…

Nah, never.

***

If there is one thing that Ink curses even more than his bad memory or his clumsiness, then it would be the fact that he is easily bored. Like right now. Again, late afternoon and no customers at all. After drinking some of his red paint, he lets his frustration out by drumming very loudly on the counter while looking angrily on the door as if his stares could magically bring customers in.

Ink groans for what feels like the hundredth time. By the Æther he is so, so bored! And the sudden art block is definitely not helping right now! Maybe a break would be appropriate. He could close his store earlier today and stretch his legs... perhaps he could even visit some friends? The ever-present silence is bothering Ink anyway.

Determined, he takes a sip from his orange paint before leaving Doodlesphere and heading to his destination.

***

Truly, his friend's house is quite outstanding in Roadin. A large part of the citizens here is living in apartments or simple townhouses, but this one stands on its own. Everyone in this neighborhood can point out with ease whom this self-made property with the gray metallic facade belongs to. Cheerfully, Ink rings the house's bell, which gives off an unpretty buzz sound, and rocks back and forth on his heels while observing aimlessly the area around him until the door is finally opened. To his surprise, it is the human child or rather young human teen Frisk who is standing on the threshold, drinking a glass of milk.

„Hey, didn't expect you here today,“ Ink greets with a smile, getting two silent but firm nods as a response while their shoulder-length brown locks make a bouncy movement. As always, Frisk is wearing their creamy yellow shirt whose sleeves are way too long, a violet bow tie with blue stripes and a beret although the artist notices a new accessory on it: a bronze gear.

„I'm really bored right now, so I came here to visit Sans,“ he explains.

After taking their time to finish their glass, Frisk responds quietly, „*At his workshop. Follow me...“ Without further ado, they take his hand and lead him inside, mainting their stoic expression. A weird kid, but who is Ink to judge anyway?

„Ah, sorry, by the way. If I knew you were here, I would have brought the manuscript of my newest story!“

„*It's fine. Then next time,“ they whisper. „*Have you thought about... publishing it?“

„Oh, no! No, no!“ Ink answers with a hearty laugh, getting a tiny frown from Frisk.

„*Why not?“ they ask.

„Uh, how do I explain it? Those plot ideas come from my dreams, as you know, and not really from me. I mean, it is my subconscious, but it's not like I'm actively inventing them, more like I'm helping to realize those ideas. So publishing the stories and taking credit for them... would kinda feel like art theft?“ Ink pauses before laughing again. „Probably doesn't make much sense, huh?“

„*...It does,“ Frisk murmurs.

„Really? You gotta explain to me, then!“ he replies, amused.

Finally after walking through some rooms and a long corridor, they stand before a door that leads to the house's back area. Frisk opens it and both of them walk inside. Already outside of the workshop, a very loud noise and screeching can be heard but once you are inside, it gets even more deafening. On the right of this large hall, a bulky flight device with only semi-finished wings and a semi-finished front side is resting there imposingly, illuminated by the sunlight coming from the dome's windows. With the back to Ink and Frisk, a figure is standing on a ladder, leaned against the aircraft, and is currently operating a welding torch to work further on his construction.

„*By the love of Æther! Couldn't you have taken a tool that is less obnoxious than this hellish thing?!“ Flowey, who is sticking out of a pot on a table nearby and is trying to dodge the sparks, screams angrily.

„*huh? what did ya just say, weed?“ Sans speaks up. „*can't quite hear ya by this torch-uring noise. heh.“

„*OH MY GOD,“ Flowey yells while trying to smack his face on the table to end his pain.

Pouting, Frisk walks over to him to place the pot further away and to glare daggers at Sans.

„*heya, kid, back again?“ The skeleton pauses his activity and strips off his safety goggles to get a better look at them. Innocently, he explains, „*we were just having fun, that's all.“

Frisk's reproachful glare does not budge a bit.

„*'kay, understood, boss. not doing it again.“

During Sans's walk down the ladder, the kid points at Ink, who is still standing on the door frame. „*We've got a guest,“ they say.

So the short skeleton (shorter than Ink, he wants you to know that) turns around and gives him a friendly smile. „*heya, bored again i assume?“

„Got me,“ Ink answers, laughing as he approaches them.

„*Great, another idiot,“ Flowey mumbles to himself.

„*i'm working on my aircraft right now, so, uh, not sure if I can entertain ya,“ Sans states while searching for another welding torch in a locker. „*but ya can stay for as long as ya want.“

Ink studies his friend. The inventor is wearing his beloved brown pilot jacket (which has an odd similarity with Ink's) with different badges on it, some of them with skulls and bones as symbols and one, located on the right side of his chest, with the icon of the 'Delta Rune' (a circle in the center surrounded by two wings and three triangles in the bottom), a matching pilot hat and dark brown gloves.

Besides, an equally important fact: He is shorter than Ink.

„*so, something exciting happened lately?“ Sans (almost an entire forehead shorter!) asks.

„Huh? Uh, nope. Nothing at all,“ Ink confesses, leaning against the workbench. „That's kinda the problem. No customers at all these days. It's getting really boring. And lonely.“

„*doesn't sound all too well, pal,“ Sans acknowledges while carrying a new welding torch and a box full of small components back to his spot. „*would definitely grind my gears if i were ya.“ This gets a snicker out of everyone except Flowey, who just lets out a metallic sigh. „*by the way ink, behind ya is my unfinished plate of pasta casserole. i think it's already cold, but ya can eat if ya want.“

„Cool, thanks!“ Since Ink can never decline free food, he takes his first bite...

„*my bro cooked it. he's really trying with this new recipe.“

...and reflexively, as soon as the taste kicks in, spits it out again.

„*You probably mean he's trying to poison all of us!“ Flowey comments with a disgusted stare on the plate of food, which is now taken and eaten by Frisk, whose blank expression remains.

„*like I said,“ Sans begins and stares down at the flower, a sinister shadow spread across his face although his friendly grin stays. „*he is really trying his best, got it?“

„*Y-Yes, I got it, I got it already!“ Flowey surrenders while his geary head spins faster due to his nervousness. „*Now quit staring at me like that!“

„*you better not say something stupid to his face when i'm not around,“ he warns before looking at Frisk with a much softer expression. „*kiddo, can ya pass me the milk, please?“

Meanwhile, Ink is writing down on his scarf to think twice next time before accepting a meal from Sans's brother again and in the process, comes across a note that transforms his eyes into green exclamation marks. „Hey, you as a part of the inventor community know for sure about a company called Blue Strings?“ he asks curiously and is surprised to see Sans nearly choke on his milk.

„*urgh, please don't say that name in here,“ he requests, suddenly annoyed as he wipes away the remains of the drink around his mouth with his sleeve. „*why are ya even asking?“

„Some people are losing their jobs because of them and it kinda effects my business too, so I got curious.“

„*...of course it does,“ he huffs. „*not having mercy with anyone. typical.“

„Wow, you really do hate them,“ Ink notes and watches with amusement how Sans's casual attitude turns into a passionate rant.

„*'course i do! name me one who doesn't!“ he exclaims while swinging his torch angrily.

„*Congratulation, now you've triggered him,“ Flowey says sarcastically. As if he is taking a break, his petals start to close and hide his face.

„*can ya even imagine how many hopes and dreams of us they have crashed?! so many of my colleagues gave up because they're too demotivated to invent and build again! only a sick freak can do that to someone's passion!“ Sans curses under his breath when he tightens up a screw way too strong in rage. „*there's a very good reason why their chef error is called 'the destroyer of progress' among us. damn bastard.“

For once, Ink stops laughing when he finally registers what has been said. He blinks twice. „Error?“

„*yeah, that's that weirdo's name,“ Sans confirms while nodding. „*is a skeleton too, has those odd glitches and 'errors' floating around him, also has those crazy-looking blood-red eyes. all in all, not a trustworthy impression if ya ask me.“

Although Sans's rant continues, Ink has already faded his voice out and is now staring blankly at nothing in particular. This cannot be true, right? Again an uncanny coincidence... The guy whom Ink has been dreaming about since almost three years is a real person? And despite not ever seeing him or hearing about him once in real life, all those attributes seem to match: his appearance, his blue strings, his title.

How could Ink dream about a person he has not known up until now?

…

He snorts. No, this just sounds way too good to be true. If Dream were here, he would scold Ink too for overthinking his fantasies again and keeping his hopes too high up. Instead, it is very likely that he just read about this Error guy years ago in a magazine or picked the information up somewhere. After all, Ink has the most unreliable memory in the world!

…

But just... what if ...?

„Say uh, Sans? Do you know when Blue Strings was founded?“ Ink inquires, feeling a subtle sting of hope inside him as he holds his breath.

„*lemme think,“ his friend answers before putting his goggles back on and turning on the much quieter torch. „*two and a half years ago, i believe? not that long actually.“

After hearing that, Ink's eyelights begin to change faster than ever before. Just the thought of the possibility of something supernatural happening to him, of a mystery probably meant to be solved and maybe, just maybe of other things in his dreams being true, makes his head spin and he barely holds back with vomiting out his excitement.

For a brief moment, Frisk's calm voice brings him back to reality, „*Hmm... this reminds me of this Destroyer from your stories... what do you think?“ They smile a bit at him whereas Ink just nods mindlessly.

In fact, he is so lost in thoughts for the rest of the day that he does not even register when or how he went back home again. The skeleton heads upstairs to his room, letting himself fall onto his bed.

So Error is his name, huh? He giggles at that.

***

Although it is certainly not Ink's area of expertise, he quite adores the crazy inventions humans and monsters come up with these days. After all, it is a form of expressing your creativity as well! So in the past, he at least tried to learn something about mechanics by helping Sans with his machines but unfortunately, it turned out to be way more complicated than Ink had imagined and he was constantly setting things on fire, so for his (and everyone else's) sake, he gave up early. Besides, thanks to Frisk's diplomatic skills, they achieved to convince Sans to forgive Ink's mistakes and is since then allowed to set a foot in his workshop again (supervised).

Long story short, the artist admires other's inventions, even though on a rather superficial level, and loves to motivate them in creating more; this is why he likes to go to the monthly conventions which take place in Roadin and give others the chance to broadcast their projects and ideas, or why he likes to visit Sans reguarly for example.

Additionally, Ink just cannot help but marvel at how these revolutionary inventions make one's life so much easier; like the gorgeous home theaters, reduced to a mere square on which all of Ink's favorite stories can be watched: Vissy! (Normal people call them television!) Or the amazing metallic apparatus that can heat up any sort of bread and make them crispy: Toasty! (Normal people call them toaster.)

Ink is even using one of these wonders right now: a mettaphon (his version of the name is currently a work in process)! A blocky device which allows you to communicate with others by speaking or via text messages and the newest 2.3.7-0723-4563.72.04-0089 version (no one really understands the function behind the last lines of numbers its inventor Alphys keeps adding up) can even take pictures! This has probably been Ink's greatest investment since... his last sketchbook.

Pressing the mettaphon's buttons, which look like those of a typewriter, provides a nice distraction for the lonely artist who is still waiting for customers. He tells his dads that everything is fine, teases Sci a bit more (who sends a random arrangement of letters and numbers back every time when he is flustered; Ink has already seen all possible combinations), sends Frisk his new drawings, delivers puns back and forth with Sans... but the moment he sees a new message coming from Blue, his eyes become stars.

Conversation with ☆ Blue ☆

< GREETINGS, INK! HOW ARE YOU DOING???

Of course he writes everything with capital letters again. His reasoning is for one, to appear prominent and secondly, to make it more conveniently for his friends to read since the screens are so small. Typical Blue.

Conversation with ☆ Blue ☆

hey blue! ☆ >

im now in my store but its boring ༄ >

< INK! YOU ARE AN AUTHOR, THEREFORE MIND YOUR PUNCTUATION!

nah its not a novel >

< THEN CONSIDER THIS AS A TRAINING FOR YOUR WRITING SKILLS!

< BECAUSE, TO BE HONEST, YOU ARE WORSE AT IT THAN MY BROTHER.

< I HAVE CORRECTED YOUR LAST WORK BY THE WAY.

Thanks! ☆ >

< YOU CAN ALWAYS RELY ON THE MAGNIFICENT BLUE!

< MWEHEHEHEH!

< WELL, I WANTED TO ASK YOU IF YOU HAD TIME FOR A VISIT AT DREAM'S. I EVEN BROUGHT MY FAMOUS TACOS!!!

< BUT I FORGOT THAT YOU HAVE TO WORK TODAY, SO MAYBE NEXT TIME.

I wanted to take a break anyway, so sure ill come! ☆☆☆ >

< WAIT.

< DID I JUST PROVIDE YOU WITH AN EXCUSE TO SLACK OFF FROM YOUR WORK???

never ever would the magnificent blue do that ✎✧ >

< WHAT EVEN ARE THOSE SYMBOLS???

☠☆⌨⊰☆⌤➳⊱✐☆Ѷ >

< !?!?!?

Imaging Blue's confused face right now and laughing at the thought, Ink stands up from the chair behind his counter and goes on his way to New Home to (not) slack off from work.

***

After taking a seat in a trolley car, Ink's mettaphon suddenly vibrates, indicating a newly received message.

Conversation with ☆ Dream ☆

< Hello, Ink. If you're coming to visit us, then please be careful on your way. The city isn't that safe anymore nowadays...

will do~ >

< I mean it. Stay on the main street and avoid shortcuts through alleys you're not familiar with.

yeah yeah >

< And don't trip on your scarf!

Like always, Dream is way too overprotective. Ink guesses it is probably something he should appreciate, but it just gets tiring after a while. Is it not a waste of time to constantly worry about everything and everyone? Well, to Ink, at least. Maybe this is the one crucial trait that has gotten Dream to his high position as a city guard now.

Yes, to truly protect someone means you have to care about them first.

For a moment, Ink glances down at his vials. Regarding his job as a decent protector, he really never has had a chance to begin with.

***

About half an hour later, the trolley car arrives at New Home, so Ink gets off. Today is such a sunny day! Since it was raining last night, the streets are now filled with sparkling puddles in which the happy skeleton jumps occasionally to watch the drops, shining like little pearls, fly in all directions. Some of the wealthy citizens here give the goofy artist an irritated look, but he does not mind at all.

Besides, despite being daytime, you can even now witness the mysterious rift high up with its twinkling stars in it. The 'Ætherlight', so the people are refering to this phenomenon, presents certainly an interesting contrast to the light blue sky. And just how the sun is shining on the yellow and golden facades of the luxurious townhouses, creating such a brilliant picture in front of Ink's eyes...! It surely inspires him to paint this scenery. If he just had brought anything to draw with... the artist would most likely capture this moment with oil. Or watercolor. Or both.

…

Oh, Ink has spaced out again. Where is he again? He snorts loudly, surprising the other passerbys around him in the process. What a silly biscuit he is! Next, Ink takes one end of his scarf to check his notes. Somewhere, he wrote down the route to Dream's home, just in case something like... this happens. It is not the first time, mind you.

…Ah, there it is! A map drawn by Ink although it is a bit... smudged by now, but he can still work with it! Following the route, his eyes are for the most time glued on the map to not be distracted by his surroundings again. However, he almost collides with other people and even cars as Ink does not look both ways when crossing a street, earning so disapproval glares and angry remarks from them, which he keeps ignoring like a master. Now, just around the corner and he is almost-

Bump! Clack!

...Well, that was to be expected. The sudden impact causes Ink to lose his balance and so he lands on the ground on his butt with a yelp. Whomever he just has clashed with hisses angrily.

„wAtcH whERe you'RE GoIng, dumBaSs...!“

Wait, what kind of voice is that? It just changes randomly from one octave to the other and has a weird echo effect to it, which lingers for about a second...

This is when Ink's and his eyes meet. These red eyes he has drawn countless times by now and which he know just to well: the right one more squinted than the other with a small white dot in it and the other with a larger blue iris, surrounded by a yellow ring.

These eyes belong undoubtly to the Destroyer.

To Glitchy, or rather to Error.

He stares at him and Ink stares back. Both of them not moving an inch and just looking at each other, like the time around them is frozen.

This Error is dressed quite fancy but still somewhat humble: He is wearing a long black coat, almost the same color as his bones, whose ends are sewn together with another blue fabric which blends in really nicely with the darker one. A cobalt-colored scarf is hanging loosely around his shoulders and despite his coat being buttoned-up, a part of the collar of his red shirt can be seen, a blue ribbon tied around it. The only thing causing Ink to frown internally, however, is his cylinder. Is it really that necessary? That thing just makes him higher than he already is! Putting his complexes aside, Ink simply continues to look at his face.

This is real, right? This is reality?? Then someone ought to pinch Ink right now because this feels (quite literally) like a dream coming true! His emotions are rumbling wildly in him, so once again he has to hold back with puking there and then. Nevertheless he has also the urge to drink all of his paints until they are empty! Oh wow, regarding his excitement, his eyes are probably changing like crazy right now. That would at least explain the irritated look Error is giving him- no, wait, could it be?! Is there a glint of recognition too?! Or is Ink just imaging that?!

Gulp. Aaaand another vomit attack is prevented. That would make the situation even more awkward than it already is, would it not?

…

Perhaps one of them should have said something by now. Even the people around them begin to stare. Ink notices that Error's gaze goes slightly off, so he follows it and realizes that a golden pocket watch is lying right next to him. Most certainly it belongs to Error. So why does he not just take it?

…

Ink picks up the watch by its chain and holds it to Error with an innocent smile. „Yours?“ he asks.

Before he can say anything more, the black skeleton snatches it from his hand and inspects every side of it carefully. Then Ink opens his mouth to speak, but Error proceeds to walk away, making a curve (a very generous curve) around Ink. However, he gives the other one last curious look over his shoulder before suddenly summoning, with a simple wave of his hand, a floating black panel, tipping and sliding on it skillfully and then lets it disappear again.

Wait a minute, Ink remembers this part of his magic! ...Vaguely. Well, he does not even know what it does. Only the blue strings stick out the most. Now and then, he recalls the phantom pain from his dreams; being tied up by them is not much fun. A shiver runs through Ink's body.

…Wait, no time for daydreaming! His Glitchy is getting away! But there is still so much to ask him; you do not encounter your nemesis from your dreams every day, after all! Quickly, Ink stands up (tripping only two times in the process) and starts to follow the other skeleton.

***

Okay, this is quite possibly a very dumb idea. Not necessarily Ink's dumbest one, no, he can name at least three others from just a week ago (one of them having Ink's Toasty and Dream's mettaphon in the equation).

So this is what happened: He followed Error to a café and was about to call his name when he saw another skeleton approaching him. This one had an elegant black suit with silvery vertical lines and a fedora, but what really stood out were his eyes, devoid of any light, and an odd black liquid streaming out of them, also a red target symbol floating in front his purple tie.

Ink instantly stopped dead in his tracks because he knows this skeleton from his dreams too, and not the pleasant ones. Yes, he remembers him being a part of another group of enemies the protector constantly had to fight against and seeing him there together with Error... it triggered an old instinct in Ink, one that judges whether it is better to keep fighting or to flee. With him being outnumbered, he sensed it would be wiser to retreat and any rational person would follow this instinct.

…

Fortunately (or rather unfortunately), Ink is not a normal person. So instead of running away, forgetting about everything that happened and moving on with his life, he now sits in the corner of said café, a menu hiding his face, and glances occasionally to the two talking skeletons although he cannot understand a single word due to the distance and the noises around him. Well, Ink is not that stupid. If anything here has any resemblance with his dreams, then both of them together are up to no good. Better not confronting them at once. Still, Ink simply cannot let this opportunity to talk with his nemesis pass by, so he will follow them around until Glitchy is alone again.

However, if this stranger is as shady as in his dreams... wow, would it not mean that Error, the boss of a big company, is doing maybe, just maybe, something illegal?! Could he be a corrupt businessman?! How interesting would that be?! Now, if Ink only were a city guard, then they would be his legitimate enemies since they are acting against the law, right? He would protect Ebott City from them... he would be a real protector like in his dreams! It costs every bit of Ink's willpower to not just swallow the entire content of his orange paint. Consuming it would make him jump around like crazy and that would only draw their attention to him (see, he is a smart investigator already).

Some minutes pass and when Error and the other one stand up from their seats and leave, Ink follows them, suppressing giggles of excitement.

***

What did Dream say again in his last message? Something about shortcuts and alleys? Ink is reminded of that now because he is currently in one, hiding sneakily behind a garbage dumpster! This part of New Home does not seem that trustworthy, though; the large buildings cast cold shadows, no sun is coming through in this area, junk is lying around everywhere and the noises of people and traffic are far, far away now. In those short years Ink was going reguarly to New Home, he never has heard about or seen areas that suspicious. It really surprises him.

„In here?“ the dubious skeleton asks, getting Ink's attention, who peeks his head out just a bit to spot both of them standing in front of a door.

„YeS,“ Error answers plainly.

Then his partner looks around him, causing Ink to retreat his head behind the dumpster again (if he had a heart, it would pound wildly!), and knocks several times on the door that is opened after a few seconds. The two skeletons go inside, leaving only silence behind. That means Ink has to wait, does it not? So he uses his break from the espionage to drink a bit from his cyan paint. Now... he waits.

If he just had brought his drawing materials with him... So naturally, he makes a note on his scarf to always carry at least a little booklet that he can use to kill time whenever he follows shady people from his dreams and has to hide for Æther knows how long. Then Ink scribbles some random monsters on his scarf but since fabric is not the best surface for drawing, he stops eventually.

Unfortunately, the signal here is way too weak for the mettaphon to function properly, so he does not even bother to play with it. Now he is humming while drumming with his fingertips on his knees, the clicks matching the melody. Sometimes Ink spaces out and has to remind himself every time why he is even here in the first place. He cannot even tell how much time has passed by now.

Maybe he should not have followed them after all. It is more boring than he-

Thump!

Ink turns around again. The door in which the two skeletons vanished has been opened up violently, a bunny monster with ragged fur and clothes stumbles out, but is captured by blue strings in the next moment. When suddenly his soul, which resembles a white upside down heart, is pulled out, Ink's eyes widen. The way it pulses painfully in the strings's grasp... it makes him gulp.

„You didn't put up much of a fight, huh,“ the empty-eyed skeleton states dryly, wielding a knife. „C'mon buddy, I even gave you a fair chance.“ Error follows him silently, his blue strings attached to his fingers while some of them are still leaking out of his eyes.

„*P-p-please! Mercy!“ the bunny monster begs, fear written on his face.

„Nah, won't do,“ the stranger replies, shrugging. „You lent too much money from us without giving back a single G. Now you'll pay for it. That's the circle of life.“

„*I-I'll give it b-back! In a f-f-few days! Promise!!“

After hearing that, the skeleton tilts his head and taps the knife's point several times against his cheekbone as if he is considering this option...

Tap, tap, tap...

„...You're boring me to death.“

The bunny's hopeful face drops when the pain of the strike sets in and his soul, the culmination of his very being, begins to crumble...

Then it shatters.

Reflexively, Ink muffles a surprised gasp with his hand. The monster starts to dissolve until only a pile of dust remains, which gets blown away by the wind.

„But it seems as if the one being dead ain't me, huh,“ the stranger comments nonchalantly and shrugs a second time while Error is dispelling his strings.

Once again, Ink hides behind the dumpster fully and catches his breath. Now that was... interesting in his own way, huh. Again, the lack of a certain feeling becomes present, now even stronger than last time, and the artist has to clench his fists hard to suppress the almost painful impulse to drink this one specific vial...

„WaS ThaT aLl?“ To distract himself better, Ink starts to listen more carefully to Error's fascinating voice, which echoes even longer in the alley. „i hAve AsSignMents tO atTend To, sO if niGhtMare hAs anY mOre stuPid jobS-“

„Nope. That's all,“ the other cuts in.

Nightmare? Now, that name sounds oddly familiar. Quickly, Ink scans his scarf for more information and indeed, there it is:

Warning from Dream: stay away from Nightmare's gang

Ah, right! It is that one group of mafia! ...Wait, wait, wait! So Ink has been right all along: Error has really something to do with them! His smile grows.

„Hmm, but just one quick thing,“ the stranger says. „Boss wants to know if you thought about his request?“

„WhAt? ThE oNe on tHe AnNiverSary?“ Error's expression darkens. „I alReaDy sAid no. I sEe no BeneFit fOr me.“

„If it shakens the relationship between humans and monsters, it can hinder upcoming inventions.“

Error laughs, the pitch of his voice constantly changing. „MaybE if iT haPpeNed tWo yeArs agO, bUt nOw iT's tOo latE.“ His face gets grim again. „i'm noT doIng tHis nonSensE. NiGhtMare hAs a BacKuP pLan fOr sUre, hE ShoUld jusT go wIth thAt. I'm nOt onE of hIs HencHmen he caN oRdEr arOund as He pleAsEs.“

The other tilts his head. „Of course not.“

„gOod. NoW go anD tEll hiM thAt tHe exAct sAme waY I'vE tOld yoU.“

„Okay. But just so you know, boss won't be happy about this.“

„I doN't cAre,“ Error replies while grinning smugly.

„Just don't tell me I didn't warn you,“ the other skeleton mentions before going his own way, leaving Error alone.

As fast as Ink can, he writes down the last bit of this conversation on his scarf. „If it shakens the relationship between humans and monsters, it can hinder upcoming inventions.“ Apparently, he has just stumbled upon a very fishy scheme, has he not? If he could only ask Error about this... speaking of which: He is standing there with his back turned to him and seemingly searching something on his magic panel he summoned.

So, how should Ink proceed at this point? Not the best idea to come out right now since he witnessed a crime, so maybe he will follow him a bit longer until he is in the safe part of public place again? Yes, then Ink just talks to him casually and pretends like their second meeting is nothing more than a coincidence.

Confidently, he nods to himself. For once, a foolproof plan he came up with-

All of a sudden, Error turns his head. Ink goes into full hiding again as quickly as he can.

Did he see him?! He could swear that Error looked directly at him as if he has known of Ink's location all along. So now what? Is this is his cue to leave? But if Ink flees, is there a chance he can meet Error ever again? Maybe Glitchy did not see him, maybe it only was his imagination or maybe he hid fast enough from his gaze... but what would happen if he found him right now?

…

Hesitantly, Ink takes his black vial, the most underused one, for his escape tactic.

However, he waited too long.

Blue strings wrap around his body, dragging him unpleasantly to its user and immobilizing him at the same time. Ink tries to free himself, but must realize soon enough he is like a helpless fly caught in a spider's web. There he is now, facing the madly grinning Error. Well, not the best circumstances to get to know each other, but you know, Ink can work with it too. Probably.

„wEll, weLl, WeLl, wHo do We hAvE hEre?“ Error hums, amused as he eyes his prey. However when he notices Ink's mettaphon, which is half hidden in his scarf's nest near his neck, he uses another pair of strings to snatch this device.

„Hey!“ Ink protests, yet his nemesis does not listen and keeps checking the phone's content while occasionally looking up to Ink and giving him distrustful stares. When Error is finished, he pockets it in his coat, earning a very angry pout from Ink.

„sO dId yoU FolLoW us All tHe wAy hEre to sPy on Us? WhO weRe You gOnNa gIve tHis inFormaTion anYwAy?“

„Uh, no one, actually,“ Ink responds while maintaining an innocent smile. „Just here aaall by myself.“

„AnD i sHall bElieVe You whY?“

„Because lying wouldn't be that smart, considering my life is hanging on a, heh, very thin thread right now?“ He winks at him, leaving Error with a dumbfounded expression until he slowly starts to smile himself.

„pfFffF,“ he snorts, which earns a tiny laugh from the other. „YoU'rE riGht. GuEss I'm thE One pUlliNg tHe sTriNgs in tHis sitUatIon~“

Ink's laughs die out the moment his captor tightens the grip of the threads, making his eyes widen in pain. The strings around his neck allow only restrained groans to escape. Instinctively Ink's body fidgets, trying to get away from this deadly hold, but to no use. As the edges of his vision start to become darker, however, Error lessens the pressure and allows him to recover. Although it is a unnecessary reflex for skeletons, Ink greedily inhales the air like his life depends on it.

...That is, by far, a way more painful experience than he remembers from his dreams. If Ink only were like any other normal skeleton monster he knows, then he would escape by summoning bones or blasters, but of course he has to be an exception to the rule: Penny is not just there to look pretty, she is also a very important catalyst for Ink's magic. Without her, his attack power is basically non-existent! The only way out of this situation is to make use of his other part of magic, but for this he needs some kind of liquid that is big enough for him...

Out of the corner of his eye, Ink notices a rain puddle to his right, about half a meter away from him, and even though his leg is tied up too, he can move it at least a little bit, so maybe if he can stretch it far enough to reach it-

„So tEll Me whY yoU're HeRe tHen. I dOn't haVe aLl dAy to deAl wIth aboMinatIons liKe You,“ Error demands, which stops Ink from daydreaming again.

„Weeeeeell...,“ he prolongs while carefully retreating his right leg to avoid any suspicion. „To be honest, I'm here because of you.“

Interested, Error raises his bonebrows. „mE?“

„Yup!“ Ink nods enthusiastically. „Because I'm constantly dreaming about you!“

He blinks several times. Okay, Ink must admit, formulating it like that sounds kind of creepy. Hopefully, this comment does not throw Error over the edge-

„wHat kiNd oF drEamS?“

Okay then, better not mess this up. „Basically, I'm the protector of all universes and you're my enemy who tries to destroy everything, so we fight all the time! When I heard you're a real person though, I got curious, so here I am now!“ While telling this, Ink's eyes become two bright stars, which makes Error flinch. However, the spark of interest never leaves the glitch once, if anything, it becomes even stronger after hearing the other's description.

„...sHoulD've guEsSed. YoU toO tHen, hUh?“

Now it is Ink's turn to blink, surprised. Did Error just imply that-?

„Do You kNow whAt is goiNg oN wIth tHis wOrld?“

„What do you mean?“ Ink's eyes become question marks.

„LeT me ShoW yoU,“ Error suggests and moves closer to the other. With a wave of his hand, he summons the transparent black panel on which a lot of numbers and letters are scrolling down uncontrollably. Ink tries to grasp anything, but the attempt alone makes his head spin more than reading one of Sans's overcomplicated manuals, so he gives up.

„thIs iS The wOrLd's cOde, shOwn on soMetHing I cAll 'the ScrIpt',“ he explains. „eVerytHing hEre, eveRy StoNe, eVerY laW of PhysIcs, eveRy peRsOn, evEn yOu aNd mE, is nOthiNg mOre tHan sOme liNes of coDes, a foRmAtion Of nUmbeRs and coMmaNds...“

Ink glances at Error. Would he let him go now if he asked him nicely...?

…

Just this time, Ink will not risk it. Since he is distracted by his panel, apparently searching for something, the other tries again to reach out for the puddle. Damn, he can only overcome half of the distance before his leg gets stuck!

„ThIs is yoU.“

Curiously, Ink peeks up.

INK

LV: 1

HP: 75/100 MP: 250/300

AT: 1 EXP: 0

DF: 1 NEXT: 10

SOUL:

[Very curious.]

Sure, Ink saw his stats before during checkups by a doctor on one of those big machines, however, he has always thought there is no such magic that can show this data so casually. You learn something new everyday, he guesses.

„As yOu cAn sEe, tHesE aRe YouR sTats aLthoUgh i doN't knOw whAt's Up wiTh youR souL...“

Ink squirms under Error's suspicious looks and quickly avoids his eyes as he feels his shame crawling down his spine...

„WhAteVer,“ he suddenly brushes off. „tinY gLitcHes hAppeN alL tHe tiMe. NoW wAtch tHis.“

While Ink is letting out a silent sigh of relief, Error randomly selects another file:

*KNIGHT KNIGHT

LV: 5

HP: 230/230 MP: 50/50

AT: 36 EXP: 180

DF: 36 NEXT: 20

SOUL: MONSTER

[*Sleeping.]

„CaN yOu spOt tHe dIfferEnce?“

„The, uh, asterisk?“

„eXactLy. I noTiced tHat eVerY bIt of CodiNg stArts wiTh aN aStErIsk in iT. I didn'T pAy muCh aTtentIon tO it at The begInninG...“

Oh! Whether it be Error's magic tiring out or him being focused on his speech, the strings loosen quite a bit! Ink grins as he gets nearer and nearer to the puddle...

„...unTil i LoOked inTo mY oWn cOde...“

Almost there...

„...anD iNto otHerS wHo aRe lAckIng aN AsterIsk. AlL of TheM hAve oNe hUge cOmmoN grOund: tHe sAme dReAms Of oTher WorLds.“

…

„...And what does that mean?“ Ink asks.

Error looks at him. Never before has his grin been that bright and his red eyes seem to shine like warning lights in the darkness of the alley.

„cAn't yoU guEss iT? YoU anD mE,-“

„-we'Re nOthinG mOre tHan anoMaliEs.“

A wave of nausea hits Ink the moment Error speaks.

What is... that?

It feels like a déjà vu, but alongside with it, Ink keeps seeing two images at once, overlapping with one another. But which one is the memory and which one is the present? Ink cannot distinguish it anymore.

Error laughs madly. „Isn'T it HilAriouS?! We'Re A buNch of ouTcoDes-“

„-whO don'T eVen bElonG in tHiS unIveRsE!“

Ink hates this feeling, he hates these words. They make him sick.

„AnD cArefRee, sTupiD AboMinatiOns liKe yOu-“ Error gets a step closer, staring menacingly in his eyes.

„-dOn'T rEaLiZe ThEy ShOuLdN't EvEn ExIsT.“

…

…

…

Ink only realizes he threw up when his dizziness vanishes and his vision becomes clear.

Right there on Error's coat.

Who is staring now in complete and utter disbelief as if he is now the one being detached from reality.

„DiD yOu jUst-?“ Error looks down at the ink stain.

„Uh, I mean,“ the other speaks up. Now, how to handle this awkward situation? „Are you gonna do something or are we stain here for all eternity?“ Smooth, very smooth, Ink.

However, one of Error's eyes twitches...

„...Error? You okay there?“

...before they get clouded with several 'error' signs. His glitches intensify until a bar appears above his head, 'REBOOT: 1%'.

…

What.

„Earth to Error?“

No response. Wow, Ink really broke someone. And there he is, thinking that day would never come despite all the warnings.

R EBOOT: 10%

…

Oh, the ink he vomited out is now a convenient puddle before him on the ground! For once, his annoying habit to puke whenever his emotions overwhelm him saves the day! Hooray! Not very hygienic though, but who is he to be that picky in such a situation?

So Ink puts one foot on the puddle and activates his magic: His body starts dissolving and becoming one with the liquid. In this state, he moves far away from Error, about 20 meters, in an incredible speed before returning to normal again. Although Ink sways back and forth since this kind of magic costs a fair amount of his energy, he gets his balance back rather quickly and looks behind him where his nemesis is still standing motionlessly.

REBOOT: 45%

Well, now is probably a good time to listen to Ink's instinct for once, so he mixes his violet and orange paint before starting to make a run for his life. After racing around the second corner, he hears a familiar voice echoing through the entire alley: „I'Ll KiLl YoU, yOu StUpId SqUiD!!!“

Ink snorts and giggles like a child being caught doing a prank.

Hilarious! Real Glitchy is even more hilarious than he could have imagined in his wildest dreams! And his face when this reboot happened...! By the Æther, he wants to go home as quickly as possible, so he can draw this expression, which is almost as entertaining as the one from the chocolate AU.

Ink laughs even harder when Error screams bloody murder a second time.

This must be, undoubtedly, the most exciting day in his life!

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Error

This must be Error's most exhausting day in his life.

First he had to find out this morning that he has no cocoa powder left. The store he visits regularly did not, yet again for the third time in a row, have his favorite brand in stock. (He makes a mental note to drive the shopkeeper out of business for that.) Then, without the required energy from his sweet, tooth-aching drink to go through this day, Error received a last-minute call from Killer, who told him to help find a hiding client for them although he has his own job to do and Nightmare knows that. Still, this bastard keeps calling Error at the most inappropriate times. Maybe he will pretend to not hear or simply forget his request, just to spite him.

However, Error could have shrugged off these annoying events easily, he is a reasonable gentleman after all, really, if not-

„I'Ll KiLl YoU, yOu StUpId SqUiD!!!“

-that happened.

Ink.

This is the name of the insufferable thorn in his side, or at least Error determines him as such ever since his dreams have started. Unwillingly,he begins to remember the Creator's (so is his title in said dreams) irritating colorful eyes, constantly changing the shapes of its pupils (why even in the first place? Is Ink doing this on purpose to annoy Error?!), his stupid mocking jokes, his stupid carefree laugh, his stupid childish grin he is probably wearing right now while he is escaping; everything about Ink is just infuriating and beyond stupid, sTupId, sTuPiD!

After letting out yet another angry glitchy scream, Error tries to calm himself down with slow and steady breaths. He cannot help but allow a confident smirk to creep onto his face once he is again reminded of his superiority in this situation. Well, this Ink thinks he is so smart and can get away that easily after humiliating the Destroyer himself, huh?

With that thought in mind, Error opens his 'Script'.

Besides its ability to show every single line of code in existence, there is yet another hidden thing you can do with it, one which the Nightmares, for example, really like to make use of: 'bookmarking'. Not only can Error save single files separately to find them easier later, he also can 'access' them, which he once found out when he tried to hack into the system out of curiosity. So he opens Ink's file, whom he bookmarked right after meeting him, scrolls down his stats until Error reaches the brackets that indicate the Squid's emotional wellbeing, clicks on it several times, types something into a console window that has popped up automatically and voilà: The Script turns itself into a screen which shows the world in Ink's eyes. Despite the sound being muted (Error has yet to discover how to change that), it is still more than enough to find out anyone's current position.

Right now Ink is walking down New Home's sunny streets again (did he just trip over his own feet? What a moron) and quickly jumps on a bus the moment he spots it.

There is no way Error can catch up to the Creator now, let alone confront him in public (let us be honest, the Destroyer will most likely get violent again), so he sees no other choice than postpone this matter for later. Revenge is a dish best served cold after all, right? Error dismisses his magic and takes a look at his pocket watch, ignoring the unpleasant memory from earlier in which Ink gave him the item back while he was grinning goofily at the glitch like an idiot. Thank Æther the Squid at least did not touch him in the process.

Now, it is almost time for Error's next meeting...

He looks down at himself grimly.

...after he has changed his clothes, that is.

Before leaving the alley, however, Error spots a strange black vial lying on the ground. It looks like one Ink carries around all the time. In his dreams, the Creator drank them reguarly for whatever reason. Curiously, Error picks it up and pockets it where the Squid's mettaphon is still located. He did not even think about getting it back while the glitch was rebooting. That idiot.

***

Ink

Whenever something exciting happens in Ink's life, he cannot remain silent about it for long, no, he just has to share it with someone at some point before he implodes or explodes, or both at the same time. Fortunately, he remembers the meeting with Dream and Blue again, so after taking three wrong buses before getting the right one to his destination, he now stands before his friend's nice townhouse and rings the bell. It only takes a few seconds before a small skeleton opens the door, his eyes becoming two blue stars once he sees the other.

„Ink!!! It is about time you arrive!“ Despite their heigth differences, the smaller one grabs Ink around the waist, lifts him up a bit and swirls him around for several rounds, causing him to giggle. He has already gotten used to Blue's surprisingly strong greetings; in fact, he even welcomes his energetic nature since it can get unpredictable (sometimes Blue spins around like crazy until he is dizzy or he greets him with very firm, but exaggerated handshakes, and when the smaller one is in a particular good mood, he even tackles Ink to the ground). Thankfully, Blue is not wearing his spiky shoulder plates today, so the hug does not feel that uncomfortable this time. However, he still keeps his gray trainee shirt on, together with his obligatory blue gloves and blue scarf on which a red-winged badge of the Delta Rune is fixed.

„My, you're hugging him to death again,“ a familiar voice speaks up, giggling lovingly.

After hearing that, Blue lets go of Ink, who just catches sight of Dream approaching them from behind. His yellow eyes are shining as soothingly as ever, no equipment of a city guard to be seen, just a plain light blue tunic with a leather belt. (Ink really needs to change Dream's clothing style. Something with vibrant colors and cool-looking patterns!)

„Hey there, Ink,“ Dream greets with a more gentle kind of hug. He has always a special positive aura surrounding him that makes others feel safe and comfortable. Ink likes to compare it with drinking ten vials of his yellow paint without the need to throw it up again, so yeah, it is nice to have Dream around.

„Come in now already! There are leftovers of my famous tacos, just for you!“ Blue announces proudly and runs back into the house while laughing, „Mweheheheheh!!!“

The two guests sit down at a table on which a vase with sunflowers is standing in a nicely decorated living room (the pastel-colored wallpapers with rose patterns seem, yet again, so old-fashioned to Ink) while they are watching Dream bringing a plate with three cups of tea.

Blue bounces on his chair, excited. „With that, 'the Council of the Star Trio' is assembled again!“

Ink snorts, almost spitting out his taco. „Oh my gosh, you're still using that name for us?!“

„Ink, caution,“ Dream warns and puts the drink next to him so he does not choke on his food, which Ink acknowledges with a nod.

„Why not? Is something wrong with that??“ Blue asks, glancing between his friends.

„Not at all,“ Dream reassures with a smile. „It's cute.“

„Cute??“

Meanwhile Ink tries desperately to restrain his chuckles. „It's just-“ He swallows the last bits of his taco. „-funny how dedicated you're to it. I'm not even a guard if you remember.“

„Well, your profession does not matter!“ Blue objects enthusiastically. „What matters is, besides a certain amount of coolness, of course, a sense for duty! Justice! And lofty, cheesy speeches as this one! Because!!!“ A dramatic pause. The other two expect another loud outburst, but instead his posture relaxes and his voice becomes quieter as he speaks, „...You know, just the three of us hanging out together is fun. I just assumed naming our circle of friends would give it more meaning. Mweheheh.“

„Nawww, Blue,“ Dream murmurs and hugs the other from the side. „It sounds so cute coming from you.“

„Cool! You mean cool!!“ Blue corrects, making Ink laugh once again.

„By the way, Ink,“ Dream says after finishing his hug, „you're almost two hours too late this time. Did something happen? Did you get lost again?“

„First off, you mean only two hours,“ Ink responds cheekily, „and second off: yeah! Something really did happen! I need to tell you guys this! You won't believe it!“

During Ink's colorful description of his meeting with Error, Blue especially appears to be taken aback (if Ink interprets that weird look on his face correctly). However, it passes quickly, so Ink does not bother to mention it.

Dream hums thoughtfully. „So this Error from the company you met today is the same as in your dreams? Well, he must have left quite the impression on you subconsciously-“

„No, no, no! You don't understand!“ Ink cuts him off. „I've been having those dreams since three years, but Error and his company are known publically since two and a half years.“

„Then, uh, you met him even earlier than that? Not like he started to exist two and a half years ago. Maybe you had seen him randomly on the street like you did today?“ Dream suggests.

„But someone like Error stands out. I would've spoken to him or at least remembered him being a real person instead of an imagination,“ Ink protests. „Come on Dream, my memory may be bad, but I remember a person I'm interested in.“

„It's okay, I believe you, Ink,“ Dream answers unsurely but still encouragingly. „So, what happened next?“

„I followed him, of course! Then there was this other skeleton-“

When a certain thought occurs to Ink, he immediatly stops. What would happen if he mentioned Error's connection to Nightmare's gang? Not like he had any proof whatsoever, but considering Dream's trusting nature and obsession for this criminal group (hell, he keeps overworking himself with the case and even brought Ink to write it down on his scarf as a warning), he might even keep Ink away from Error for his safety! In the end, Ink would not listen and distance himself from his companion and, well, what would be the worst result? A broken friendship, perhaps?

„Ink, you space out again,“ Dream remarks and giggles, amused.

„Oh, uh, yeah. What was I talking about?“ heasks.

„You followed Error and then there was another skeleton...?“

„Ah, yeah, uh, I forgot about that one!“ Ink laughs sheepishly. „Whatever, he went away. But Error spotted me!“

„How did he react?“ Blue speaks up.

„Well, we talked for a little while,“ Ink explains (and decides to leave the part out where he got strangled by strings), „until I got so excited-“

Dream furrows his brow. „Oh no, please don't tell me-“

„-I puked on him!“

While Dream lets out a frustrated groan into his hands, the other's face twists in disgust. „Eww, Ink!“ Blue cries out. „I hope you apologized to him properly at least!“

„Yes, I mean no. He literally froze-“ Ink snorts at that image in his head. Ah, he needs to draw it so badly! „-and I ran away! Man, he really got angry! You should've heard his screams!“

„We just can't leave you alone without you getting into trouble, can we?“ Dream sighs.

„Nope!“ Ink confirms happily. „It'll be fine, though. When I see him next time, I just say, 'Sorry' and the problem is solved!“ Well, he cannot guarantee for sure that he can keep a straight face while doing so and will most likely burst into laughter again, but hey, the others do not need to know that (maybe they already do).

„So you really want to meet him again, huh?“ Dream asks.

„Maybe you could, uh, wait a few days before doing so?“ Blue suggests. „According to your description, this Error may have quite the, uh, temper, so perhaps give him a bit of time to calm down, I guess??“

„I don't even know where he lives, so it won't happen anytime soon anyway.“

„Oh, okay then,“ Blue replies (seemingly relieved?) „And what did you two talk about, by the way?“

After retelling everything Ink still remembers, he again causes surprise and worry among his friends.

„There are even more with those dreams?“ the guardian replies skeptically. „What's the meaning behind that? That sounds... unsettling.“

„Do you two remember when I talked about my dreams?“ Blue mentions with a thoughtful expression. „The three of us were a team, fighting against the evil! I am always thrilled after having these dreams, mweheh...“

„Yes, I have those too,“ Dream adds. „I always thought they came from reading too much of Ink's stories since they share a lot of similarities, but what if they really are connected somehow? Then they wouldn't be just normal dreams anymore, right?“

„YoU anD mE, we'Re nOthinG mOre tHan anoMaliEs.“

That sentence keeps repeating in Ink's head over and over again (just why is it that the uncomfortable memories stick around longer?). What exactly did Error mean by that? Is it bad that they are not 'normal'? Why should they not belong to this world?

…

„You know, I had a funny thought just now,“ Blue speaks up. „So all of us are having the same dreams, we have concluded that, right? What if they are not ordinary dreams but, I do not know? Memories from our past lives if something like that exists??“ He laughs a bit.

„Do you have this one particular dream too which reoccurs over and over again?“ the guardian asks while drawing circles with his thumbs. „I've never talked to anyone about that yet because I've always thought this was just a result of my work stress, but now...“

„What happens in them?“ Ink inquires, his interest piqued.

„I can't remember really well, but there are a lot of stars, everyone is fighting against something desperately, and there is this giant... shadow, I think. In the end, everything just gets dark and I-“ Dream, whose positive aura decreases noticeably, hesitates and he stares down to the table surface before continuing, „...Sometimes, I think I die at the end of it.“

Ink and Blue exchange looks with one another.

„...So, do you have this kind of dream too?“ the guardian asks and although no one dares to respond to it due to the tension hanging in the air, the silence is answer enough. „If we assume these dreams are some sort of memories, then could you tell me what it means?“

No one speaks up, just staring quietly at each other as the cups of tea have long gone cold by now.

…

At the end of the day, Ink leaves in a quite sour mood. Which paints to take in this weird situation? He decides on the blue, violet but also on the gray one once he remembers that he lied to Dream today and wants to compensate for that. However, when he goes through his vials, he notices that black is missing, which alarms him immediately. When did Ink lose that vial? Maybe he has left it at Dream for some reason? Better call him-

…

His mettaphon is gone too.

***

Error

Wandering through the halls of the now empty and silent factory fills the Destroyer with satisfaction. To see the fruits of your hard work for yourself is exactly what you need to not only lift your spirits, but to receive the needed validation for your project you put your heart and soul into (and just how sweet victory tastes). After knocking on the door of the (former) director's room three times, Error happily bursts in without waiting for a confirmation to come in. Pyrope, a flame monster with a constantly burning head and a rope wrapped around his entire body, jumps a bit at the sudden intrusion, but then sinks back in his chair with hanging shoulders.

„GoOd aFteRnooN~,“ Error hums, amused at how the other flinches at his glitching voice.

„*...Good afternoon,“ Pyrope answers reluctantly, averting his gaze.

„noW, whY doN't we dIreCtly sKip to tHe fUn pArt?“ he offers while grabbing a piece of paper underneath his coat and slamming it proudly on the table. „jUst SigN hEre.“

Slowly and carefully, the other reads the contract although he already knows the content. „*...That won't save my company either,“ he mumbles.

„pFffFf, of cOurSe nOt,“ Error agrees. „iT's caLleD 'dAmagE coNtrOl', eVer hEaRd of That teRm? If yoU enTruSt YouR pAtHetic fActoRy sIde to Me, yOur fInaNcIal prObleMs wIll bE coVerEd, so HurRy uP alReaDy. Not LiKe yoU hAve aNy oThEr chOice iN thIs mAtteR.“

While Error is gazing and waiting patiently, the former boss uses his magic to guide one end of his rope to wrap around a nearby pen so he can write down his name obediently but also grumpily. As soon as Pyrope is finished, he hands the paper back to the skeleton (who avoids the physical contact as good as he can). „*Just leave already,“ he requests.

„ThaNk yoU VeRy mUch~,“ Error responds and turns to leave the office.

However, Pyrope speaks up one more time, „*...What are you going to do with the factory anyway?“

Error stops before he can grab the doorknob. The look the glitch gives him lets the director's blood run cold and the fire illuminating his head becomes smaller, dropping the room's temperature in the process. „NotHing.“ 

„*What?“ Pyrope asks in disbelief.

„YoU've HeaRd mE: abSoLutelY nOtHing.“

„*Are you kidding me? This isn't funny!“ the other yells, his frustration growing.

„No, nOt jOkiNg. NoT tHis TimE aT lEasT, hEh.“

„*What is even the purpose behind this?! What is the reason hundreds of workers lost their jobs?!“

„YoU'rE reAllY EaGer to Hear iT, HuH? Then LisTen cArefUlly,“ Error begins while leaning casually against the door behind him and crossing his arms. „WhAt evEn Did thIs fAcTorY prOduCe? ThoSe sTuPid mAgiC mArbLes thAt cAtch FiRe aS soOn as thEy Get in ConTact witH oXyGen? Or tHosE cRapPy sPinNing TopS tHat dAnCe iN thE aIr beForE jUst diSsOlvIng iNto fReaKing sMokE? WhO eVen nEeds thaT gaRbaGe aNywaY?!

YoU InvenTors noWadAys thInk you'Re sO sMarT, vOmiTing oUt yoUr oH-sO 'cReaTive' nOnsEnse fOr whIch tHe ciTy geTs mOre aNd moRe pOllUted.“ His body starts to glitch more violently. „I deSpIsE eVeRy. SiNgLe. OnE oF yOu.“

By the end of Error's speech, he turns around to leave for good this time. However, all that built-up wrath causes Pyrope's flame to burn brighter and not only heat up the room but to shoot little fireballs uncontrollably. Before some of them can hit the skeleton, a wall of red bones emerges from the ground, which protects him from the attack. Only then Pyrope recognizes his foolish outburst and stops immediatly.

„...lAsT mIsTaKe,“ Error whispers menacingly. Next, the wall of bones disappears as fast as it came before he shoots out his strings to trap his target. „AttAckIng fRom BehInD iS vEry Rude, dOn't yOu tHinK~?“

„*L-Let me go!“ Pyrope yells desperately while fidgeting and kicking his feet like a buffoon, which gets a laugh out of Error. More fireballs are thrown, however, once the Destroyer tightens his grip, he winces in pain and stops his assault again.

„...aNd aTtAcKinG Your bUsinEss pArtNer iS a HeaVy cAse of brEacH oF ConTraCt fRom YouR pArt, aM I rIgHt?“

After these words are spoken, Error pulls the other's soul out and begins to exert more pressure on it, which causes cracks to appear.

„*H-Help! Help!!!“ Pyrope screams, but who is there to hear his cries in this lone factory anyway? Of course nobody would come.

As the flame monster turns into dust, Error dismisses his strings again and lets out a sigh. Normally, he does not lash out at his clients that easily, but all the time spent doing Nightmare's dirty jobs seems to have made the Destroyer more and more reckless, he guesses. Speaking of which, he probably will not need his help this time to sweep this incident under the carpet (Error can very much do it himself; quite literally since he sweeps the remaining dust under the carpet, heh). This Pyrope will not be missed anyway, he knows that, and because the signed contract is all he needs, he intents to leave the office again.

„Help! Somebody!“

Error turns around, only to find a room that is still empty. No, these cries for help are just the monster's last words, which echo obtrusively in his mind. Just his imagination. Although this voice... sounds different.

„Help me!“

Error grins. Yes, nobody was there to hear his cries, so naturally, nobody came.

After exiting the building, he is instantly greeted by the impossible smell of gas and smoke. How he hates to pay the hellhole that is Hotland a visit. Since Error denies to use any of the common public transports, he relies on the River Person instead, who always guides him through Ebott City. Although this method results in a slower path home, Error would take the weirdo's boat over crowded buses and infuriating traffic any day.

„*Tra la la. The clouds are quite dark today,“ the River Person hums.

„JuSt shUt Up And dO yoUr jOb.“

„*Tra la la~“

While the boat slowly starts to move, Error looks to the right where the empty factory he just visited is located. Thanks to the Destroyer's intervention, there is one worthless piece of junk less in this crammed city.

No more noises to come from there.

No more dreadful stenches.

No more unnecessary waste of time and energy.

Nothing more than a building filled with deadly silence now.

Absolutely and undeniably pErFeCt.

So who cares if Error makes losses there and then? Who cares if the other abominations hate him for what he does? After all, he is here to bring the gArBaGe out.

A thankless job but a job nonetheless.

As Hotland's other industries go by during the ride, Error is yet again reminded that he has still a lot of work to do. But all of their time will come too...

And the Destroyer will enjoy every second of it.

***

In the evening, as Error opens the door to his home and closes it behind him, he sighs contently. After turning the light switch on, he is greeted with the sight of his one large square living room, surrounded by plain white walls and only sparingly decorated. The panoramic windows provide a generous view of the tidy streets of New Home, however, Error covers them immediatly with his white curtains before walking over to his comfortable green couch in the center on which he flops down. Whiteness and silence (well, only if you leave out the voices that occasionally whisper incoherently in his skull)... yes, the best kind of safe haven.

Like every day after work, Error turns on the television to watch the newest episodes of his favorite series: 'Æthernovela'. Despite him being called 'the Destroyer of Progress' by morons who do not know any better, he can still appreciate inventions, mind you. Useful ones. Those that enrich life and not pile it up with filthy junk until you do not have enough space to breathe anymore.

Since there is an advertisement currently running for a new MTT product, Error takes the time to check and answer his messages:

Conversation with Abomination #2

< hey error, how you doing?

< you didnt answer my calls today

i was busy. >

and what i do doesnt concern you. >

so freaking stop with calling me all the time. >

< well, i still feel responsible for you, you know that

youre not my mother. >

< i mean

< technically speaking...

i swear to god if youre going to deny my claim, i will annihilate you for good. >

< joking

< just worrying bout you, thats all

you mean about what im doing, yes? >

no need to pretend, glitch. >

< error, please

< even if you dont want to believe me, there are people who care bout you

< even fresh asked me recently how you doing

< error, you still there?

Aaaaand this is where the conversation ends for Error. Any other unread messages? Ah, Abomination #15 (Error should at least start writing their true names in brackets; this whole abomination thing escalated a long time ago when he reached the one hundred mark):

Conversation with Abomination #15

< GREETINGS, ERROR! I HOPE YOU HAD A WONDERFUL DAY!

< WELL, I HEARD FROM A FRIEND OF MINE THAT THE BOTH OF YOU MET TODAY? YOU KNOW, INK?

< I HOPE YOU TWO GOT ALONG WELL!

Error does not even bother answering that since he is not in the mood to recall the previous events. Besides, it still baffles him that #15 and the Creator know each other. Well on second thought, maybe not; both of them are quite the morons, they certainly go well together. Speaking of which...

Reluctantly Error takes out Ink's mettaphon, still located in his dirty coat that is hanging at his clothes rack. Ignoring the irritating wallpaper (which is a giant pen wearing a cap and a pair of glasses while the sun is setting down in the background... just why?), he opens the list of his contacts. How does the Squid even know Abomination #5 too? Well, if he truly is the one as Error assumes. Curiously, he looks into their last conversation...

Conversation with Sci √

< Heya, just here to remind you to drink your paints respectively.

Of course doc ♢ >

< Good.

then let me remind you to keep your hands from your boyfriend while researching~ >

< nwodnf29g387bpok,pq29u

...Yes, most likely him. But Error still does not understand the deal with these paints. Although he remembers seeing Ink drink them in his dreams, he has never gotten to know why... Since this is coming from #5, does that mean they are some kind of medicine? Intrigued, Error fishes out the black vial from his coat too, watching it closely. What does it even taste like? After opening the lid, he carefully takes a tiny, tiny sip... and is immediately so disgusted by it that his glitches become more unstable.

It tastes... like normal paint but with a ridiculously strong aftertaste to it. Is medicine even supposed to taste like that?! Whatever, Error just throws Ink's belongings to the other end of the couch, then slides down while crossing his arms with a scowl.

His show has already started by now, so why even bother with the idiot's private life?!

***

…

…

…

Error awakes the third time this night. His insomnia again...

He tosses and turns in his white four-poster bed, trying to keep these annoying voices in his head at bay... but to no avail, they just will not stop with their incoherent babbling. It goes on and on until the glitch cannot take it anymore. „ShUt Up AnD lEt Me SlEeP!“ he yells into his lonely room.

For a moment, there is indeed silence...

…

However, they soon start whispering again, causing Error to cover his head with his pillow in the hope to reduce the volume. Voices from people he does not know, voices from his past, voices that suddenly stop and start repeating themselves over and over, like they came from a broken record... Especially at silent nights like these they like to torment Error, who has the suspicion that they became more obnoxious ever since the dreams have begun. Although there exists a method that allows him to rest without being disturbed by the voices, which is to force a reboot upon himself, it is not as satisfying as real slumber. And Error, being stubborn as always, just does not want them to win!

In order to tire himself out, he opens his Script and begins to scroll down. Looking randomly at the bookmarks, Error notices that almost everyone is asleep by now. It is almost two am, after all. However, a certain someone seems to be awake as well, which again succeeds to strike his curiosity. Without further ado, Error opens the screen to Ink's point of view. At the moment the moronic artist is sitting on his bed, sketching something, and his exhausted mind needs time to process that he is indeed drawing... Error. But why?

…

Not that Error likes to admit it, but the Squid is fairly skilled at what he does.

…

There lingers a certain thought in the back of his mind that keeps bothering him since their first meeting yesterday, even now at his sleepless state...

The thing is: Error has already given up to examine these dreams any further. In the past, he tried to document his regularly, however, his insomnia became more and more troublesome to the point where he sometimes passed out, due to exhaustion. Error's determination and willpower allowed him to keep this up for about a year until the desire to sleep was too strong, so he has started to rely, reluctantly mind you, more on his reboots, which always hinder dreams to appear. Additionally, with new projects for his work piling up, there never has been the amount of time to write them down properly, so he put that mystery aside for a long time.

Of course they were other sources Error used, most of them coming from #2 and #5. However, #2's dreams began to become... repetitive, always being about a world engulfed in black with only a single spot of flowers blooming (he calls it his 'Savescreen'). #5's were quite interesting because, despite staying in the same place that was his laboratory, he interacted with many people from various worlds, helping them with their problems. But similiar to Error, #5 has quite the sleeping troubles and not really the time to deal with that issue, even though he is curious himself.

Then #15 came along who revealed that Ink was as one of his friends, thus piquing Error's interest. The fire of curiosity began to burn once again and he nearly gave in, but despite all of his fascination for the Creator, he managed to restrain his thirst for knowledge, telling himself time and time again that it will only lead to nasty consequences. Error has already enough experiences with those.

...However, as time went on, he realized that there exists one strange, unspoken rule in this world: No matter the unlikelihood, sooner or later, outcodes will always meet each other at some point, as if they were predestined to...

„Because I'm constantly dreaming about you!“ Ink's happy voice suddenly resounds in Error's head, blocking out the rest of the annoying whispering. The expression in his eyes he had when he said these words, filled with child-like excitement and honest curiosity... For a brief moment, Error thought he saw himself in them. Did his eyes had the same kind of shine too before he gave up, he wonders (minus those weird star-shaped pupils)? ...No, Error is certainly not implying that the stupid Squid inspired him or something like that. Nope.

So this one fleeting thought that gets on his nerves is the following: What if he and Ink worked together on this dream problem? After all, 'the Creator' and 'the Destroyer' are involved in the multiverse's matters all the time, always traveling around and observing everything from above, something not every outcode is able to, so having Ink's perspective may offer a fair amount of unique stories. But a cooperation between them would never work, would it? First off, Ink might not want to have anything to do with Error after what happened today and second off, despite it being their first meeting, the Squid certainly strikes him as that kind of person who would cost him all of his brain cells (he has enough dreams about that moron to back up his claim).

No, this could never work. Neither in another timeline nor another universe. Just... no. No!

…

Meanwhile, Ink finishes his drawing with some last final touches. It looks really good. No, stop complimenting him!

No one has ever drawn Error before, so he is... unsure how to feel about this? Well, he is too tired to give this any more thought anyway...

Huh, Ink starts a new picture... Is he not tired...? Following the artist's skillful movements, Error's eyes grow heavier as the minutes go by until, with two sudden flickerings, the Script vanishes into thin air and the the glitch falls into a deep slumber at last.

In the next morning, he will remember a dream about a sky, filled with a seemingly endless ocean of stars, and a skeleton sitting right next to him whose eyes reflected all the colors of the rainbow... and after recalling said dream, Error will stand up to find his old, dusty dream journal in which he will write down everything.

***

While cramming down some fried eggs, Error maintains a baffled expression. Just how in the world can anyone be that dense?

So he has been watching Ink drawing again until that moron has lost sight of his pencil that he is searching for right now. Some seconds later he realizes that he has been holding it the whole time and therefore, continues with his activity again. It would not be that ridiculous if it happened only once, but this is the fifth time now. In only five minutes.

This reminds Error of a dream in which he tried to play a cheap trick on the Creator: In a battle, he told Ink there was one of his beloved abominations behind him, on the brink of being eradicted, and like the idiot that he was he really turned around, allowing the glitch to snatch his his weapon out of his hands with his strings. When Ink realized it was gone, he seemed genuinely confused and looked helplessly around before spotting his tool hanging in the air right above him. Thinking about this gets a laugh out of Error.

Later in the noon, he finally tries to wash the ink stain out of his coat, but no matter the amount of water and detergent, it just will not. Go. Away. Frustrated, Error decides to throw it away. He has enough substitute cloths anyway, so why even bother?! To let out his anger, the glitch opens Ink's bookmark again, giving him death glares through the screen. Right now the Squid is balancing some boxes around the store Error presumes he is working in (is he actually carrying four of them at once?) when suddenly, he bumps into a shelf he does not see and falls backwards, spilling out everything.

„SeRves yoU rIghT, iDiOt,“ he murmurs smugly, pretending for a second his glares have actually worked.

In the afternoon Error receives two calls from Abomination #2, which he keeps ignoring. Bothersome messages are one thing, but whenever they talk over the phone, the subject always drifts to that one cemetry caretaker #2 cannot stop complaining about, and Error will certainly not deal with those kind of problems.

Ignoring the freaking third call, he proceeds to knit a scarf while wearing his red glasses he only uses when he is alone. During this process, Error occasionally looks up to the screen to see Ink watching over a kid's shoulder and pointing out some passages in a text. Even an idiot like him can give private lessons, apparently. After some time has passed, Ink decides to sit across from the kid and the talking flower (or rather gear?) next to them. From time to time, the child's deadpan expression changes and a smile appears on their face while the metallic plant rolls their eyes. Although Error cannot hear a thing, he can imagine Ink telling them some dumb puns. So while observing the screen and their reactions, he just fills the silence with his own jokes in his head (why did the programmer quit his job? Because he did not get arrays. HeH hEh)... Error chuckles to himself.

Like this, the Destroyer goes through his day off: attending his hobbies while watching the moron doing his thing. Only in the evening when Ink comes back from a grocery store, Error suddenly realizes that he knows his address now. Huh, he did not even need #15 to ask for that. So the store is called 'Doodlesphere'? That sounds... somehow familiar.

However, now that Error knows his whereabouts, how to proceed next? Will he really... ask him to work with him together?

…

No, that is still an absurd idea. The Creator and the Destroyer...

…

No, stay away, stupid curiosity!

…

ArGh.

Maybe deep down inside, Error knows he has already decided on this. Whether it has been this morning when he wrote down his dream, whether last night when he witnessed Ink drawing or even yesterday when he saw those sparkling eyes of his; well, it does not matter. Grabbing another coat and a top hat, he leaves his beloved home to walk to his new destination.

Even if Ink does not want to cooperate with him, Error can still change his mind and go with his old revenge plan. No matter the result, he will win either way.

***

A few hours ago...

Ink

„*So you really met the Destroyer in person, yes?“ Frisk asked. It was so rare for them to show that kind of enthusiasm that Ink was taken aback at first.

„Uh, yup. Really cool, huh? As if the dreams are more than just dreams,“ he answered.

„*But do you believe it yourself?“

„Hm? What?“

„*That dreams have a deeper meaning to them.“

„I mean, maybe?“ Ink shrugged while laughing. „To be honest, I'm not sure myself.“

„*Hmm,“ Frisk hummed thoughtfully, „*then what would it take for you to believe it?“

„Uh, dunno. But you know, recently when Glitchy and me talked, I had this really strange sense of déjà vu.“

„*Oh, really?“

„Yeah! I can't describe it well, but it felt so strong I got dizzy from that!“ he explained, excited. „So I guess if these... incidents pile up, I will become convinced eventually.“

„*...I see,“ the kid whispered, contracting their eyebrows. „*Then... time will do the trick then, huh?“

Ink snorted. „You want me to believe that or what?“

That made Frisk blink in surprise before responding with a weak smile, „*...I would find it cool too, you know, if the universe you dream about were real...“

***

Frisk's weird behaviour makes Ink almost forget about the insecurity he feels for lying to Dream about Error. Well, technically it is more of a half-truth than a lie, is it not? To be honest, he only thinks about that now because he found the dialogue between that gang member and Glitchy written down on his scarf not so long ago, so he is reminded of yesterday again.

„If it shakens the relationship between humans and monsters, it can hinder upcoming inventions.“

This one phrase just does not want to leave him alone! Despite it sounding so exciting at the beginning, Ink definitely does not want that to happen. Maybe it would have been smart to tell Dream about that encounter after all even if it means consequences for the relationship between him and Error?

Ink puts his head on the counter, letting out a frustrated groan in his empty store. Just why does Error have to be involved with Nightmare's gang?! Reckless decisions made by Ink are predestined to happen under these circumstances! The universe, Æther or whatever deity is currently standing above him should have created the situation less complicated, god dammit!

Ring.

Should Ink think it all over again? A reasonable person would do that...

„HelLo, iDiOt.“

...but being reasonable also means to live a boring life in which nothing ever happens, so screw that! Besides, Error probably possesses the means to cover up his criminal stuff, so even if Ink knew that, it would not make a difference, right?!

„arE You DayDreaMing oR wHat?“

Yes, it will work out in the end. Somehow. See, being unreasonable means to leave all of your worries behind and see everything in a brighter light instead (or is it what people call 'delusional'?)!

„SnAp OuT oF iT aLrEaDy, YoU bIrD bRaIn!“

Although a reasonable person may have noticed a certain someone standing right before him and yelling at him all the while to gain his attention...

Confused, Ink blinks two times.

…

…

…

Oh. Oooooh.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Error

„Oh sorry, pal. Didn't see you standing there,“ Ink apologizes in a suspiciously good mood while his eyelights take the form of orange sickles. „So, uh, how did you find me?“ Error's body stiffens involuntarily for a moment when he loosely puts one arm around the oversized pen next to him, one of his pupils changing into a violet target symbol. This thing... surely reminds him of that comically large brush the Creator was always carrying in his dreams. Even now, Error can feel the phantom pains of being hit by that monstrosity. Better be careful around that one. But at least, Ink seems somewhat more warily in Error's presence despite keeping the same happy-go-lucky grin. Good, if the Squid is not that stupid, Error can work with him then.

„ThAt dOesN't maTtEr,“ he responds while trying to regain his composure (he will be damned if he appears even a bit intimidated by that idiot and his freaking pen). „I'vE cOme tO taLk wIth yOu.“

„Really?“ Ink asks, whose eyes change between yellow stars, orange swirls, green triangles... Æther, Error should stop looking at them! They are distracting as hell! „Wait, are you not here to kill me? You said something like that last time, didn't you?“ Oh, great. So he still got to hear his curses. Really excellent conditions to build their potential truce on.

„reLaX. I'vE...,“ Error mutters, averting his gaze towards the shelves filled with writing materials and gulping down his pride, „...cOme iN peAcE.“

„Wow, so you're forgiving me for that incident with your coat?!“ Ink blurts out.

„...i GuesS sO,“ Error answers reluctantly.

„Awesome! So I don't have to apologize for that anymore!“

„WaiT a moMenT. I diDn'T sAy yOu dOn'T oWe mE an ApoLoGy.“

„Oh. Okay, then,“ Ink agrees and shrugs. „Sorry, b-buddy.“ Wait. Is he holding back a laugh there? ...All of a sudden, Error thinks he needs to get paid for doing this to himself.

„WhatEver. I cAme hEre tO tAlK wiTh yoU abOut Our dReamS,“ he explains. „aRe yoU wiLliNg tO hEar me Out oR nOt?“

Ink's eyes widen in surprise. „Of course!“ he answers cheerfully. Well, that was easier than expected.

Suddenly Ink comes forth behind his counter and bounces towards the entrance, making Error take a step back in the process.

„Let's talk in my apartment, it's just above the store.“

„Do wE hAve tO?“ Error grumbles, not even trying to hide his reluctance, which causes the other to let out an amused snort.

„Did you take a look at the clock? It's evening and I want to close my shop,“ he argues while turning the sign on the door so it says 'closed'.

„...fIne. YoU tAke tHe lEad tHen.“

Humming obnoxiously, Ink climbs up the stairs whereas Error follows him silently and tries to maintain a safe distance. By the Æther, how narrow the space is in here, a nightmare for everyone who is claustrophobic. Additionally, the creaking steps leave the impression that they might give in any moment. This is definitely not the kind of place you want to let your guard down; especially if the one in front of you is Ink, who is still casually carrying his club-like pen. After opening the door and entering the (still incredibly narrow) hallway, he turns around abruptly to face Error, almost causing the other to let out a surprised yelp.

„Can you maybe, you know,“ Ink starts, pouting at his cylinder in particular, „leave your stuff right here?“ A bit confused, Error takes off his coat and his hat and puts it on the clothes rack, earning a bright smile from the other. „Yup, that's much better.“

Does the Squid... have a size complex? That would be hilarious. Better start inventing silly nicknames to test out his theory in the future. Error forces himself not to chuckle maliciously at the thought. However, upon getting to see Ink's room, his good mood vanishes in an instant.

„SquId, wHat The hEll aM i looKinG aT?“

„Huh? My room, silly!“

Wearing a deadpan expression, Error scans his surroundings. „WhEre iS tHe grOunD evEn?“

„Well, it has to be somewhere.“ Ink laughs while whirling up some papers with his foot. God, the room looks even worse in real life than through the his screens.

„caN't wE jUst gO to yOur liVinG roOm?“

„Oh, I don't have one.“ You have to be kidding him. „But there's still the kitchen. Although...“ Thoughtfully, Ink tilts his heads, his eyelights becoming cyan hourglasses. „...I think I haven't cleaned it in weeks. Or was it months?“

„GoD, sParE me thE siGhT of thAt,“ Error retorts.

„Alrighty, make yourself at home then!“ Ink announces. „Is there something I can bring you? Water? Tea-“

„hoT cHocOlaTe,“ he cuts in sternly. To his surprise, the other snorts loudly as a result. „wHat's sO fuNnY?“

„Nah, just-“ He snorts a second time when seeing the other's baffled expression. „-remembered a certain dream.“

Before Error gets an opportunity to question it, the artist walks off, leaving him alone in the mess that is his room. Begrudgingly, he looks around once more. No, even with all of his willpower, Error will certainly not stay here when it remains that way! So he starts picking up the piles of papers, throwing them in the corners and collecting them. Let Ink handle the organization of them himself later, that is not Error's problem. He just wants to have a little more space! Is it too much to ask for?!

After five minutes have gone by, he hears Ink's voice calling him from behind, „Hey, Error! Do you want your hot chocolate with-“ When he appears on the doorframe, he stops immediately, inspecting his somewhat tidied up room in awe as his pupils are taking various forms. „Oh, so that's how the floor looked like!“

„I'm noT dOinG tHis AgaIn. StarT cLeaNing yOur oWn mEss yoUrsElf fRoM noW On,“ Error insists, annoyed by the other's merry expression.

„I mean, I didn't ask you for it but thanks anyways,“ Ink answers, shrugging.

„WhAt dId yoU wAnt tO aSk mE a mOmeNt aGo?“

„Uuuuh.“ He zones out, thinking very hard until he finally notices the two cups he has been holding the whole time. „Oh, yeah! Do you want your hot chocolate with something? For example marshmallows?“

„iT's fIne aS it iS,“ Error comments and starts frowning when Ink holds the cup out to him, expecting him to take it with an oblivious smile on his face. „...jUst pUt iT doWn oN tHe tAbLe.“

„Okeydokes~,“  Ink agrees, not suspecting anything, and after fulfilling the other's request, he takes a seat on his bed and begins to sip on his drink.

Finally Error picks up his cup too, staring at the vine-like ornament drawn on it (probably by Ink himself) at first before taking a cautious sip. It certainly does not taste as good as his favorite brand, but... „...iT's NoT bAd, I gUesS.“

„Phew, I'm glad I didn't mess up this one,“ the Squid responds and laughs. „Last time, I think I set my kitchen on fire.“

Error almost chokes on his drink. How even in the world-? Whatever. His questionable incidents are not the reason he is here for.

„Hey, by the way, what's with that 'reboot' thing that happened when we met?“ Ink inquires. „Looked hilarious!“

„FiRst oFf, i'M noT goInG tO anSwEr thEsE kIndS of QueStiOns,“ Error determines harshly, „aNd sEcoNd oFf, I wiLl bE thE oNe asKinG yOu wHat I waNt to kNow.“

„And why?“

„BecAusE I sAy sO.“

„I don't see the logic here?“

„JuSt dO aS I saY oR I'lL leAve.“

„Okay, okay. Geez,“ Ink agrees, rather amused as he drinks from his cup.

„So, aBoUt yOur dReAms,“ Error begins, „eXplAin tO me AgaIn wHat uSuaLly hApPenS in tHem.“

„Sure!“ he speaks up excitedly while his eyes become the familiar yellow stars again. „Like I said, I'm the protector of all universes. This is the role that has been apparently given to me for some reason I don't really know. Anyways! I'm always travelling through the AUs to check if everything is fine and in balance.“

„So YoU tOo aRe fAmiliAr wiTh thEse tErMs?“

„Of course! And the combination of all the existing alternative universes is called 'multiverse', right?“

„ThAt's hOw I unDerStanD it tOo, yEs,“ Error confirms, nodding thoughtfully. „AnD aRe yoU aWarE oF yoUr tiTle as 'tHe CreAtoR'?“

„Yeah, an odd name.“ Ink furrows his brow as his eye lights transform into a green question mark and a brown zigzag. „Strictly speaking, I didn't create the worlds all by myself. I just... helped with the process and inspire the real creators as far as I interpret it. Hey, you know that you're called 'the Destroyer' in it too?“

„YuP. DreaMs are noT tHat fAr frOm reAlitY aS it SeEms. HeH,“ Error answers with a proud grin.

„...Can I ask you why you're so keen to destroy all of the AUs?“ Ink questions (surprisingly serious for the Squid's standard, Error may add).

„ArE You sEriOus? YoU'vE seEn tHesE unIverSes tOo, hAveN't yoU? A wOrlD wHeRe eVerYoNe iS an eVil vErsIon oF tHemSelVes aNd iS weAriNg oBnoXiouS reD anD bLacK cOloRs? Or wHat aBouT tHe oNe wHerE theRe arE parAsytE flOweRs tHat kiLl eVerYboDy sLowLy aNd pAinfUlly? Oh, aNd dOn't forGeT thE oNe wHerE aLl of The mOnsTerS aRe sOme crEepY gHosTs fLoaTing aRouNd! If tHis mUltIveRse is anYthiNg liKe oUr wOrlD we'Re liVinG iN, tHen tHesE aUs woUld Be likE OuR fActOriEs toDay: a wAstE of SpaCe. I cAn iDenTifY wIth dReAm mE wAntiNg to EraDiCate eVerYthIng.“

„Hey, every AU is unique in its own way!“ Ink protests, pouting. „And by the way, who are you to complain about 'obnoxious' colors?“

At that remark, Error stares down at his red shirt. „...tOucHé. HoWevEr, my ArgUmeNt sTilL stAndS.“

„Awww c'mon, Glitchy.“ ...'Glitchy'?? „There's no way you hate all the universes.“

„tHey'Re alL abOmiNatiOns.“

The Squid chuckles. „Is this your favorite word or what?“

„...mAybE,“ Error adds quietly. „wAit, dO yoU heAr my DreAm sElf uSinG tHis wOrd a Lot oR hoW do yOu kNow iT?“

„Yup, all the time. Not very creative after a while, though.“

„As iF i cAre. Or... mE in The DreAms, aT leAst.“

„Oh, I've had an idea just now!“ Ink suddenly exlaims. „I write down all of my dreams in books so I don't forget them. I can show you some if you want.“

„OkaY tHen,“ Error, whose interest is piqued, agrees.

Excited after hearing his approval, Ink walks over to his shelf, scanning it intently for said books while his tongue is peaking out. Some seconds pass before Ink begins to pick the ones he has been searching for. One, two, three... ten. Then with a loud thud, he puts them down on the table next to the other, grinning absurdly proud of himself. Error, on the other hand, cannot help but stare with his jaw hanging wide open. How many... pages are there even? 400, maybe 500 per book?

„...hOw mAny dReaMs hAve yOu rEcoRdEd so Far?“

„Wait, lemme look...“ Ink opens the book on the very top and flicks through it. „...I'm currently at... #975.“

What. The heck. Some stupid idiot like him possesses more discipline and dedication to document his dreams than Error?! Of all living beings it has to be him?! After gulping down the rest of his hot drink, Error takes a random book from the stack and opens a random page:

'02/04/190X

Ink's Dreamlog #456

I was patrolling in the AUs again! I jumped from portal to portal, watching over the brighter universes this time (especially covering those with the swapped personalities since Glitchy had targeted them a while ago; that was a thought that was constantly popping up in my head, at least).'

„WhY thE Hell 'gLitChy'?“

„Oh,“ Ink blurts out and giggles. „Just because it sounds funny!“

„dO yOu eVer Use mY rEal nAme?“

„Uh, tibia honest, I always assumed that was your real name~“

„...wHat tHe hEll iS wrOng wIth yOu?“

„What? 'Error' would be way too simple, wouldn't it?“

„AnD 'InK' is Not oR whAt?“

„Well, then give me a cool nickname too instead of 'Squid',“ Ink offers happily. „The best names end with an 'y' if you ask me.“

Rolling his eyes, Error takes his time to come up with something. Something... diabolic. As an idea pops up in his skull, the corners of his grin curl upwards. „PffFf. 'SHorTy'.“

Ink's eyes widen in surprise and he blinks, irritated. Then he frowns slightly, one pupil being a green exclamation mark and the other a red crosshair. „Yeah... just forget what I said,“ he insists while nodding slowly. „'Squid' is fine by me actually.“

„ToO lAte~,“ Error hums smugly. „yOuR cReaTiviTy jUst iNsPireD me tOo muCh tO gIve up On tHat iDeA.“

Ignoring the other's incoming protest, he continues to read the passage.

'Before doing my duty though, my scarf reminded me to visit Blue again, so I did! Dream had promised me to come too so I could finally introduce both of them. I was always thinking that they would get along well, so this meeting was long overdue!'

Skipping occasionally through some parts, a certain thought suddenly enters Error mind. „HeY, so yOu hAve beEn reCorDing TheM sInCe tHreE yeArs agO, I prEsUme?“

„Hm? Yeah?“ Ink responds, his anger already gone. „I sometimes forget to write them down there and then, but overall, I've collected most of them since they started.“

„WhEn exActLy dId yOu sTarT wRitIng tHem? YoU EveN pUt thE dAteS oN thE tOp.“

„Oh, you see, my very first multiverse dream was also my very first dream in general, so I wrote it immediately after waking up because I was so excited that it finally had happened to me!“

Error blinks, surprised. „WaiT, wHat dO yoU mEan? YoU'vE nEvEr drEamEd bEfOre tHat One thAt occUrEd tHreE yEaRs aGo?“

„Uh, yeah? Strange, right?“ Ink laughs a bit (is he nervous?). „However! I can look up on which date my first dream was!“

That... sure is interesting. Is it even possible for someone to have no dreams for the most part of your life? At least Error has not heard of it up until now. Maybe he will inform himself about that matter later...

However, more important is the date of the first dream. Not even Error knows when it all started exactly; he had gotten suspicious of them for some months, maybe even a year later before he considered solving that mystery. According to other outcodes, they all began around the same time three years ago. Now, if Ink is truly correct about this, then there is a way to determine that for sure.

„Here is my very first 'Dreamlog'!“ Ink exclaims cheerfully after carefully getting the book from the bottom of the stack. „You can read it for yourself. I wrote it on the piece of paper that sticks out somewhere between the first pages.“

'09/15/190X

My first dream

I finally had a dream last night! Everything was super blurry, I couldn't really recognize a thing and my body hurt like hell. I think there was a starry sky, blurry like everything else but still pretty, and some people I know were gathered in the background.

There was an earthquake or something like that, then everything turned black and the dream ended.

I feel super drained right now; I never knew you could feel emotions that intense in your dreams too. I thought I would die. That was so awesome!!! ✧✧✧'

„September 15 it was then!“ Ink announces, who has been reading at Error's side the whole time (the other still maintaining his fair distance).

„...iS tHat aLl?“ he questions, reading the entry over and over again.

„Unfortunately, yeah. This dream keeps appearing again and again. Some more tiny details come up sometimes, but overall...“ Suddenly, Ink notices the other's serious expression. „...Error? Is something the matter?“

„...it'S noThiNg.“

„Of course there is something! What have you been thinking about just now?!“

„reMemBer oUr agrEemEnt wE MaDe? I wOn't aNsWer yoUr sillY qUesTioNs,“ Error responds firmly.

Ink's happy face drops for a moment. „Oh, don't be like that! You've answered my questions before!“

„WelL, I'm nOt oBliGeD to aNswEr mOre of tHeM.“

„But-“

„No bUtS. OuR aGreeMeNt, sHorTy.“ Before the Squid gets a chance to whine and complain, Error speaks up, „HoWeVer, tHiS dAte cOnfIrmS sOmeThiNg I'Ve alReaDy SusPecTed.“

„And will you explain to me what it is?“

„do YoU kNoW wHat HapPenEd oN tHat dAte?“

Crossing his arms and staring to the ceiling, Ink ponders (come on, it is not that difficult to remember). After some seconds, he picks up one end of his scarf, scanning it thoroughly. „Oh! That's the day of the anniversary!“

„YuP. AnD...?“ Stars, Error really has no patience to explain everything to him like he was a child (well, mentally he certainly is one).

„Uh, that's the date where our ambassador Frisk arrived in our district, right? Oh, and...“ Eventually, his eyes widen in realization. „Oh, ooouh! The Ætherlight appeared that night for the first time!“

„YeS, thAt's tHe eVenT i WaNtEd to PoInt ouT.“ Error crosses his arms. „ yOu knOw, nOt onLy thEse dReAms anD thAt unExpLaIned pHenOmeNon hAppEnEd aRoUnD ThAt tImE.“

„What else?“

„It'S aBoUt mY ScRipt.“ With a wave of his hand, he summons the floating screen in the middle of the room. „SoMe daYs lAtEr, i fOuNd a ForEigN bUncH oF cOdEs I cAnnOt deCipHer.“ He scrolls down a bit. Normally, it never takes that long to find that huge anomaly. The other lines of codes are always fleeting, jumping up and down and very hard to catch if you are not standing directly next to the objects or people they refer to (that is why his bookmarks are best to create when the certain thing or person is nearby). This anomaly, however, is very easy to find because it is almost always there. „HeRe.“

Once again, Ink's eyes shine in admiration as he sees the phenomenon before him. Huh, Error probably looked like that too when he witnessed it for the first time (less stupid, though). In the Script there goes a strange line, uneven and seemingly random, seperating the normal white letters and numbers of the world's coding on the black screen from the ones with an illuminated rainbow-colored background. The lines of codes there are not scrolling, but vanishing and appearing again in mere seconds at random spots.

„That's so beautiful,“ Ink whispers. Of course a rainbow moron like him would love it. „What is it, though?“ Only when he turns to the other, Error all of a sudden realizes he has been watching those irritating star-shaped eyes the entire time, so he quickly averts his gaze and shakes his head to come to his senses.

„I dOn't KnoW. I cAn't rEaD it BeCaUse iT's aNoTheR lAngUagE. buT I wOuLd aSsiGn thIs aNoMaly to tHe ÆtHeRliGht sInCe thE timEs of TheIr aPpeAranCeS seEm tO corReLate.“

„So, uh, if I understand it correctly...“ Ink comes a bit closer, tilting his head from one side to the other as he inspects the colorful display before him. „...the text written here tells us all about the Ætherlight?“

„If mY hyPothEsiS iS coRreCt, yEs.“

„Wow, that's pretty cool, but... what does it have to do with our dreams?“

„I cAn't tEll yOu wIth my CuRreNt kNowLeDge, bUt it iS at LeAsT sUspiCioUs tHaT thE dAtEs mAtcH.“

„Huh,“ Ink utters, confused.

„...tHeRe iS oNe mOrE tHinG,“ Error mentions and calls forth the screen filled with his bookmarks, which he scrolls down (however, doing it fast enough so Ink cannot catch a single name on it) until a certain term comes into sight: '████'. Next he clicks on it, letting another screen appear that is stained with an odd black liquid.

„Now that looks funny,“ Ink comments and snorts. However, once he touches the screen and the strange material keeps sticking to his fingers, his eyes glitter in excitement again. „Hey, Error! Error, look! That weird stuff-“

„I knOw, sQuiD.“

„What is that?!“

„I haD iT tEsTeD it iN the LaB onCe,“ he explains (and rolls his eyes as the moron gathers more of it on his fingers). „ApparEntLy, iT is hAte in liQuiD fOrm.“

To Error's surprise, Ink suddenly stops and looks down at his hand with an unreadable expression. „Oh,“ he murmurs.

„YoU kNow wHat It iS?“

„Uh yeah, heard about it somewhere...“

Stars, this guy is so unpredictable sometimes. One moment so happy as a monster can be and now, without any warning, so serious. How exhau- „wHaT tHe HeLl?!“

Ink licks some of the stuff off his fingers, which causes his face to twist.

„HaVe YoU cOmPlEtElY lOsT yOuR mInD?! WhY did yOu PuT a DaNgErOuS sUbStAnCe In yOuR mOuTh?!“

„Uh, morbid curiosity?“ Although Ink gives the other a shaky smile, he then covers it up with his hand.

„DoN't YoU dArE puKe aGaIn!“ Error hisses, enraged.

As a response Ink holds one finger up and retreats quickly from his room. With a drawn-out sigh, Error lets the Script disappear again before flopping down on the bed. Yes, very much exhausting.

Ten minutes have passed when the Squid finally comes back.

„LeSsoN leArnEd?“ Error asked with a raised bonebrow.

„Huh? Uh, yeah,“ Ink confirms, nodding and smiling. „So, how does that thing fit into everything else?“

„ThAt I dOn't KnoW. I hAppEneD to fInD iT bY aCciDeNt onE dAy, mAyBe a yEar aGo? I cAn't eVeN teLl if tHiS is a PeRsOn, aN iTem oR sOmeThiNg eNtirEly dIffErenT. HeCk, iT eVen maY hAve nOtHinG tO Do wIth OuR dReAms oR tHe ÆtHeRliGht aT aLl.“

„Did you try to just... scrape that stuff off the screen?“

„TrIeD, bUt nO maTter hOw mUcH oF iT You cLeAn, tHeRe iS nO enD to ThIs.“

„Mhm,“ Ink hums while sitting down next to Error. „Then why are you showing me this?“

„SinCe tHis iS the sEcOnd bigGesT aNomAly in The ScrIpt, tHeRe mIghT be a cOnNection too,“ Error elaborates. „So ThaT yOu kNow aBouT tHe iMporTanCe oF aLl of tHis: tHe ScRiPt rEpreSentS oUr wOrlD. TheSe anOmaliEs suDdeNly appeArinG wIthoUt aNy exPlanAtioN whaTsoEveR iS tHerEfoRe a cOncErnIng mAtTer. EspeCiaLly wHen oNe oF tHem is liTeraLly lEakIng oUt aNd tAkiNg a PhySicAl fOrm.“

„...And will you explain to me why you're telling me this, of all people? I thought you only came to talk about our dreams, but here you are, mentioning some weird anomaly thingies that may or may not have something to do with them. You just, uh, don't seem like the sharing kind of person, that's all.“

Well sooner or later, this question had to come up. After taking a deep breath, Error responds, „I cAmE hEre to WoRk wiTh yOu tOgeTheR on ThiS cAse.“ Bewildered by that request, Ink opens his mouth to speak, but the other interrupts him, „FiRsT I wAnT tO saY tHat I caN't sTanD yoU aT alL.“

„Yes, I've noticed it myself,“ he says and laughs.

„HoWeVer, I'm WilliNg tO pUt mY... disTasTe fOr yoU aSiDe if It mEaNs yoU wilL be heLpInG mE bY cOllEctIng tHe dReAms. AfTeR aLl, yOu hAve a wIde vArietY of TheM.“

„Wow. How much of your pride did it cost to come to me for that?“

„...don'T. AsK.“

As expected, Ink cannot contain his cheerful laugh. What a dumbass. „Soooooo,“ he replies while wiping a laughing tear away, „how did you imagine us working together? And how will collecting the dreams help at all?“

„WeLl, thE dReaMs aRe qUitE rAnDom wIthOut aNy pRopEr oRdEr. I... kIndA hOpeD iF wE pUt tHem tOgEtheR iNto oNe coHerEnt sToRy, we MigHt gEt an AnsWeR ouT oF tHem.“

„That's... kinda vague.“

„Oh, rEalLy nOw?“ Error remarks sarcastically. „Do yOu hAve a betTeR pLan, oh ShOrtY?“

„No, no, I'm just teasing you! I would love to do that!“ Giggling, Ink playfully nudges him, causing Error to cringe at the sudden touch.

„HoWeVer, I wAnt To eStaBliSh sOme cOndiTioNs. FiRsT rUle: Don'T aSk Me sTuPiD tHinGs.“

„What do you consider stupid?“

„FoR eXamPle quEsTioNs aBoUt wHat HapPenEd in ThaT alLey wHen yOu fOllOweD mE.“

„Oh,“ Ink mutters, dissappointed. „Fine, I guess.“

„SeConD rUlE,“ Error continues strictly, „doN't tAlk wiTh anYonE, aSiDe fRom uS OutCoDes, aBoUt aNy oF tHis. FoR noW, iT oNly cOncErnS us.“

„Oh, but I probably already did-“

„ThEn DoN't Do It AnYmOrE!“ he snaps.

„Okay, okay, will do. I mean, uh, won't do? Uh...“

„WhAtEveR. ThIrD rUle: TaLk tO me FirSt beFoRe cOnsIderIng teLliNg oTheR oUtcoDes aBouT tHis.“

„And why so?“

Error looks at him with a deadpan. „I iMaGine yOur cIrcLe of FriEndS aNd aCquAinTanCes bEinG vEry AnNoYinG liKe yoU, sO i wAnt tO gEt acCustOmEd to yoU fiRst bEforE deAliNg wIth moRe of YouR sOrT. AnD fOrTh aNd lAsT ruLe: Don'T cAreLesSly meNtiOn uS wOrKing tOgEtheR or sOme sTuPid cRap liKe Us 'bEinG frIenDs'.“

Ink snorts. „Okay, Mister Anti-Social.“

„...Do wE hAve A tRuCe nOw?“

„Looks like it~“

„gOod. I wIlL nOw borRoW sOme oF yoUr bOokS; ThE fIrst tHree foR thE beGiNniNg. Ah, bY thE wAy-“ Error takes out Ink's mettaphon out of his pocket to throw it at him, who manages catch it quite well. „-yOu FoRgot sOmeThinG.“

„So there it was!“ Ink exlaims contently.

There is still the vial in Error's other pocket...

…

No, why bother? The other does not even seem to miss it all that much. Besides, he is still interested in getting behind the paint's secrets... Asking Abomination #5 may be an option here, but he will probably not tell Error anything since there is this whole crap about 'patient's privacy'. Perhaps he could ask Ink himself somehow...? Anyway, for the time being, he will keep the vial with him.

„I'vE aDded mY nUmbEr on YouR pHonE. JuSt doN't mEsSage or Call mE fOr UsEless stuFf.“

„Mhm,“ Ink hums quietly, not even looking up to him, instead playing on that damn device. God, he will bother him with his phone, will he not? What has Error done?

„...I'm SenDing yOu a MesSage wHeN i'm DoNe wIth tHe boOks.“

„Oh, hey, before I forget it again! I also wrote a novelized version of my dreams if you're interested in them!“

„DoEs tHat mEan yOu'vE alReAdy pUt yOur sToRiEs in orDer?“

„Hm, yeah and no?“ Ink answers, swaying his body from left to right. „I mostly changed the phrasing, put my own interpretations there and then, made everything more dramatic-“

„ThE raW vErsIonS aRe mOre tHan eNoUgh,“ Error interrupts firmly before his skull starts to hurt with all the imagination floating in.

„Oh, okay then.“ Ink nods, still smiling although it seems... quite forced? However, like always, that little glint of disappointment flies by fast. „Can I read your dreams too, then? Well, if you have written them down like me.“

„...NeXt tiMe,“ Error promises in a muttering voice.

Grinning very brightly once again, the Creator offers his hand. „I'm very glad we're working together!“

…

Come on, Error, one stupid handshake and he is done. He cannot continue running away from his weakness forever since it may become very obvious at some point.

One... handshake...

…

Begrudgingly, Error returns the gesture... slowly... very carefully... but halfway through, Ink grabs his hand surprisingly strong, forcing the other to repress a yelp.

„You know, I've always dreamed about us getting to know each other better!“ Chuckling, Ink resumes with his enthusiastic squeeze, completely oblivious of the Error's pained hissing.

„yEs, YeS, yOu caN Let gO nOw.“ Why must that squirt have such a ridiculiously firm grip?!

„I dunno if I told you this before, but you've always been a great inspiration for my works!“

„sQuiD-“

„Hey, are you available for posing for pictures, by the way? I already have some ide-“

„SqUiD!“

Using all of his force, Error shakes off Ink's hand. After calming down his glitches, which have largely spread across his body, he takes one last disgusted glance at that ever-grinning skeleton before angrily stamping his way out of his room.

„See ya then!“ Ink calls after him, only earning a low growl as an answer.

On his way home, Error thinks about which abomination number he should give the Squid. Probably one of a high rank, right? As if the voices in his head decided to taunt the glitch, they go suddenly quiet, leaving space for Ink's annoying high-pitched laughter, which seems to resound from all directions.

…

Yes, a very high rank, indisputably.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Ink's Dreamlog #11

[Proofread by the one and only Blue!]

Lately, our grand multiverse was growing and expanding gorgeously. New worlds and stories were born daily thanks to the creators to whom I had promised to protect their imaginations.

One of those new wonders was an alternate universe, or AU for short, filled to the brim with vast landscapes: sand and more sand as far as the eye could reach! I wandered through this place to verify if everything was as it should be, meeting humans and monsters only now and then even though I had set up that one rule for myself to not get involved with the world's characters or stories, so I screwed up again.

[INK! NO NEED TO PRESENT YOURSELF AS AN IMBECILE IN YOUR OWN STORY!! - Blue]

However, the beautiful part of this universe were neither the burning sun nor the identical-looking hills nor the fata morganas that messed with your head; no, the real magic could only be seen if you persevered long enough to find it, as its creator had intented. Because hidden among sand and dust, there stood the remains of an ancient civilization: houses, temples, even towers, although a significant part of them was already buried deep down by the desert and time itself. Naturally, I admired all the hard work the creator had put into this universe. It ended up being a long and tedious project, and my assistance had been needed for many months, but now, seeing the results... it made me smile. After fooling around for a bit, I left this place, satisfied to return to my home I called the 'Doodlesphere'.

Some weeks passed in which nothing significant happened. Patrolling, aiding with creations... that was how my days went by. Of course I could talk about all the AUs I worked with during this time: the zombie one or one where everyone wears neon clothes or where monsters had become cannibals and were consuming each other's dust and blood. How funny creators could be sometimes.

[DO NOT GET SUDDENLY SO GRAPHIC WITH THAT KIND OF STUFF! EW! AND DO NOT DIGRESS! - Blue]

But on one fateful day, I began to feel a strange tickle inside me. At first I ignored it, labeled it as a side effect of an unfortunate mixture of my paints, and went on with my activities. However as time passed, that tickle got stronger until it developed into a heavy tightness in my chest. It had never happened in the past and started to feel pretty uncomfortable... and annoying. But before I could even consider my options, a painful sting caught me off guard, causing me to drop to my knees.

If I wanted to use an understatement, then I would probably say it burned like hellfire. But realistically speaking, well... it was like being torn apart in a million pieces, over and over again.  Was I still alive? Was I already dead? Since my own consciousness kept betraying me, constantly fading in and out, I couldn't tell.

Then it just stopped.

I lied on the ground motionlessly, my mind too empty and numb to form even a single thougth. Once I regained my strength, I lifted myself up, still shaking. Maybe it was an instinct that had always been inside me because I immediately knew, without the need to confirm it beforehand, what that sudden pain meant: the death of a universe.

Not losing any more time, I picked up my giant brush called 'Broomie' in order to travel across the universes fast. (Penny, I'm so sorry you're not part of this story.)

[YOUR PROOFREADER IS NOT. - Blue]

After some tries, I finally managed to locate that specific AU that had been attacked not so long ago. Apparently it hadn't vanished completely; a chunk of codes and glitches remained in an empty, dark space. This world... it had been my beloved desert world. All of the golden sand, the mystical ruins, all of the creator's hard work... just gone, as if it had never existed in the first place.

However, on the invisible ground, there were lying... blue strings.

From that point on, these incidents kept happening frequently. Whenever one of my spasms occured, I tried my best to ease my mind and concentrate on the source of the attack to find it before it was too late. Four more AUs were destroyed, but I got better every time, at least. As soon as the familiar feeling rumbled within my chest for the fifth time, I finally tracked down the endangered universe. So I opened the portal, excited and alarmed at the same time about what I would find at the other side...

Right away, my attention was drawn to the several cobalt blue strings that hung across the dark gray sky. Where were they even beginning and ending? I spun in circles as I stared at the web-like construct, entraced by its pattern...

…until I heard his laughter.

So peculiar how the pitch of his voice went up and down, and these uncanny glitchy sounds were certainly enough to send a shiver down anyone's spine. But I was not one of them.

I walked down the dust-covered path until I spotted a black skeleton with outstretched arms and his back turned towards me. „Was that all you've got?!“ he screamed to the sky while his shoulders shook from his mad laughter. „Just another abomination!“

Using Broomie as support, I waited there, crossing my legs and placing one hand on my hip, until the mysterious intruder would eventually stop laughing. I coughed, causing the other to freeze.

„Hey there. Dunno what your deal here is, pal,“ I remarked and added with a sly wink, „but monologuing evilly and cracking up like a lunatic is quite the cliche, don'tcha think?“

He turned around.

That was my very first meeting with the Destroyer.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

One year ago...

Ink

On the very top of the long staircase, there was sitting Ink, watching the white clouds floating by with a blank expression as the fresh wind whirled up the ends of his scarf. Only when the giant golden doors of the Judgement Hall opened behind him and a very happy Blue followed by Dream came out, he turned around, showing his best smiling face.

„Ink!“ Blue called out in a cheerful manner and waved at his friend. „I passed the exam!“

By the time Dream finally caught up with him, the smaller one had already taken Ink's hands and jumped excitedly up and down. „From this day on, you may refer to me officially as the 'Very Splendid and Magnificent City Guard of Ebott City, the One and Only Blue'!!“

„Come on now,“ Dream interrupted and chuckled. „There's no way Ink will remember anything past the third word.“

„Hey, that's not true,“ said skeleton disagreed strongly. „I even remember the first four words this time! Uh, it starts with 'very', right?“

„Yes... just do not think about it any further. I will make a special exception since it is you!“ Blue answered.

„And, uh, I don't want to burst your bubble, but there's still an annual traineeship left for you to absolve,“ Dream mentioned.

„Mweheheh, as good as done!“ the other replies while the three of them started to slowly walk down the stairs, especially Blue, who had a spring in his step.

„Soooo, how did it go?“ Ink inquired.

„Oh, the theory part went quite flawlessly,“ Dream explained, infected by the other's good mood. „Though there were some complications in the practical part, he did very well overall.“

„Embarassingly, I must admit that my special attack did not work the way I wanted it to,“ Blue commented and huffed.

„Oh, I thought it did though? You mean the one that turns the soul blue, right?“

„Well okay, correction: Half of it worked. But it was supposed to become orange at some point! Although I had been working so hard on it with my brother to get it right-!“

„Blue, please watch your step,“ Dream insisted calmly. „I don't want another heart attack from a staircase incident.“

„Huh? Why are you looking at me all of a sudden?“ Ink asked innocently.

The guardian sighed. „You know what? Once I find more time, I'm going to practice my healing magic so I can be more of a help in case something happens again...“

„Why do you keep staring like that?!“

For a while, the three friends maintained their joyful conversation. However, Dream furrowed his brow at Ink, who had been surprisingly quiet all the while. „Are you feeling alright?“ he inquired, concerned.

„Hm? Why shouldn't I be?“ Ink asked without losing his smile.

„Uh, well,“ the other uttered. „Maybe you don't like us talking about the whole graduation thing?“

Blue gasped all of a sudden. „Oh, I am very sorry, Ink! I did not think about it! This was probably insensitive of us, was it not?!“

After exchanging some looks between his worried companions, Ink started to laugh. „What are you two talking about?! Go ahead and chatter about it for as long as you want! Doesn't happen every day, after all!“

„Are you sure?“ Blue questioned.

„'course I am! Now stop making those long faces, guys! It's a cause for celebration!“

„Well, if you say so,“ the trainee responded, the edges of his mouth slowly turning into a confident smile again.

Quite lively, Ink swung his arm around Blue's shoulder and promised, „You know, I'm very happy for you too!“ As he said that, one of his eyes became a golden-shining star and the other a dirt brown circle.

***

Present time...

Conversation with ⌨Glitchy⌨

hey error >

error >

error >

when do you stop ignoring me ☁ >

error >

< when you stop sending me random images of your stupid pen.

first off her names Penny >

second off >

i forgot what i wanted to say ☆ >

< thank god.

„Can you believe that, Penny?!“ Ink asked, outraged as he is looking at his companion who is leaned against the chair next to him. „He still can't get your name right!“ Sipping on his spider cider (for spiders, by spiders, of spiders) outside of a café, he continues typing:

Conversation with ⌨Glitchy⌨

I remember again ☆ >

have you finished my dreamlogs yet? I wanna read yours too >

< you asked me the same question mere hours ago.

Well how am i supposed to remember that? >

< i dont know, maybe scroll up the conversation?!

Hey thats brilliant ✧ >

< and the answer is still no.

Ink tilts his head in Penny's direction. „Yes, I know I got his name somewhat wrong too at first,“  he admits, nodding. „However, I've improved by now! And you were there too to confirm it!“

Silently, he awaits her response.

„So sassy today,“ Ink murmurs, frustrated altough the cider's sweet taste lifts his spirits rather quickly, making him hum again. After a short while, he stretches his stiff body with a bone-cracking sound before sinking back into his chair, his hands supporting the back of his head while staring at the Ætherlight inhabiting the blue afternoon sky. Huh, if you take a closer look, its form reminds you of a huge grin with ragged edges and the single clouds floating above appear like its eyes. Kind of funny, actually.

Ink cannot remember whether he has ever thought about the phenomenon's origin for more than five seconds. There are people out there like Sci, who are very much interested in finding out what it exactly is and where it comes from, or Sans, who is super into the adventurous stories surrounding it... Ink, on the other hand, just thinks it is a neat motif for his pictures. However, thanks to the information Error has given him this week, he cannot help but wonder which connection there could be between the grin in the sky and their dreams...

…

The mere thought lets a smile creep onto his face, possibly brighter than the Ætherlight's. Oh stars. Someone better ought to stop him before Ink gets a chance to drown himself in his orange paint (it literally almost happened once; the liquid got stuck in his skull for days and it was so hilarious to watch the reactions of other people whenever it was leaking out of his nose). He probably looks weird(er than usual) right now, does he not? A rattling skeleton snickering out of nowhere...

„Good thing I haven't started to talk to myself, right, Penny?!“

…

„Yes, I think so too!“

Well, his public image completely aside, Ink cannot contain his excitement any longer! Oh, how much he wishes that Error would be available right now! He is practically on the verge of asking Glitchy for the third time about his books (but Ink has already done it twice, right??). Instead, the excited skeleton takes a picture of Penny and sends it to him. Yes, speaking of Error: The café's view is quite nice and the drinks and food taste really yummy too, so maybe there is a possibility to invite him to lunch, just for fun?

...Ink snorts at that. No, not yet, at least.

To be honest, he did not predict such a lucky outcome at his store last time. Although death and destruction could have been a comical scenario too to a certain extent (unfortunately, you cannot have all the fun in the world at once), this is, most likely, the best result ever! Them, investigating together! Followed by the last drip of the spider cider, Ink drinks a good amount of his yellow paint too, which draws more giggles from him (still ignoring the weirded out people around him like a pro). Truly, despite the incident with the horrible black liquid and feeling so drained afterwards, their conversation ran smoothly overall.

...The black liquid...

Because Ink wondered if it tasted like his black paint, he tried it out of curiosity, only to regret his decision later. Yes, both of them are really similar, however, his body rejected the foreign liquid immediatly for some odd reason. Since that day, Ink has not consumed anything from his black vial, as the memory of its terrible taste alone is enough to make him recoil.

...All of a sudden, the juice and the yellow paint do not seem that sweet after all.

…

Oh, a new message from Error:

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

< stop. sending. me. these. garbage. images.

< or else i might do our planet a favor and eliminate you dirty anomaly piece. by. piece.

< stupid shorty.

Oh wow. In his head, Ink pictures a very annoyed Error writing this message... while his glitches are running wild... possibly fuming... reproducing broken sounds of a random electronic device again... Glitchy really never fails in making him laugh like a madman.

Oh, by the Æther and everything it stands for! This image just has to be a part of Ink's new collection of Error sketches! Ah, someone help him before he dies from laughter (hey, another near-death experience to add to his list! Neat)!

And like that Ink stays there, responding back and forth on his mettaphon while forgetting the world and time around him.

***

When the apartment door opens, Ink expects a happy little Blue (emphasis on 'little') to greet him, but instead another skeleton, wearing a bright orange jacket (a pack of cigars hidden in its breast pocket) and a lopsided bow tie in the same color, is standing before him. Even in his regular bent-over posture, he remains way too tall, always forcing Ink to look up, which makes his neck go stiff after a while.

„Oh hey there, Stretch. How's it going?“

The taller one's tired gaze falls lazily upon the other, one of his eyes twitching very slightly. „Oh, it's you,“ he answers (not very much thrilled? Nah, probably just Ink's imagination) before leaning a bit forward to check the hallway behind his visitor. „Your other friend isn't here today?“

„You mean Dream? No, he's got work to do,“ Ink explains. „Sooo, do you let me in now or...?“ Shifting a bit awkwardly on his heels, he eagerly awaits Stretch's response, who really seems like he is considering his options here.

Finally, he steps aside and as Ink enters their home, he warns firmly, „Don't go anywhere near our kitchen.“

Ah yes, Ink's infamous cooking incident. Last time he tried to make tacos together with Blue, he somehow managed to scatter the tortilla dough everywhere in their apartment (even in the toilet and Stretch's trombone, do not ask how), which threw the tall skeleton so much over the edge that he almost threw Ink quite literally over the edge of a window. However, his brother was able to calm him down in the last second. Moral of the story: If your friends can forgive your silly taco slip-ups, then you can forgive their murder attempts on you too!

„Blue, your guest has arrived,“ Stretch calls out, suddenly sounding much more relaxed than before.

On command, Blue's head peeps out of the left room's door. „Finally!!! And only half an hour late! Way to go, Ink!“ he exclaims and comes out to guide his friend to the table in the center.

„Well, I'm gonna take a nap then,“ Stretch mentions and is about to walk to the living room when his brother suddenly stops him.

„Hold on a minute, is your jam session not supposed to be scheduled for today??“

„Kinda?“ the older brother responds while shrugging nonchalantly.

Blue huffs. „What do you mean by 'kinda'?! Either it is or it is not!“

„Okay yes, it's today.“

„Then do not let your bandmates wait any longer!!“

„Don't worry, they can just start without me,“ Stretch reassures although it only achieves to make Blue frown and cross his arms. While chuckling and nudging the other playfully from the side, the former adds, „Awww c'mon, bro. I'm just closing my eyes for a few minutes, that's all. So-“ He turns around again. „-if you need me for anything, just scream.“

„Lazybones!!!“ Blue shouts after him.

„Love you too, bro,“ the other responds.

While Blue is massaging his nasal bones, Ink has already taken out his mettaphon to pass the time.

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

hey there ☆ so Im with a friend right now whos probably an outcode too, so can I involve him in our project too??? >

< not yet.

< and remember rule four too.

What? But are the almost two weeks of adjustment period not enough to speak with Ink's friends about it already? What a grumpy, anti-social monster his Glitchy is! Although Ink has been so excited to finally talk with someone about it... such unfair rules!

...But oh well, 'rules are there to break them', right? How is Error even supposed to find out if Ink tells it anyone?

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

< you know, i can see and hear what you do through my script. that's how i found you in the first place.

No way >

Ink has already been prepared to laugh at him, but only mere moments later, Error sends him a picture of a screen showing his phone display and then a second one of the room Ink and Blue are currently in. So... he can actually see the world through Ink's eyes?

…Well, there goes his plan.

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

so youve been stalking me? Creepy ☆ >

< says the one who followed me all the way to an alley.

< and putting a freaking star behind that statement makes you the creep, not me.

„Ink? Are you listening??“ Blue, who is sitting across from his friend, asks.

„Oh, sorry. What did you say?“ Ink inquires and puts his mettaphon down.

„Wowzers, you were grinning from ear to ear just now! Who is the one that puts such a smile on your face?!“

„Eh,“ Ink utters, his pupils are wandering from side to side. „My buddy Sans. We were exchanging some puns; you wanna hear them?“

Blue's face scrunches up instantly. „Ew, no! My ears can and will not withstand such tomfoolery!“

Without any warning, Stretch emerges from the other room. „You know, I have some good ones to tell too-“

„No! Not hearing anything!!!“ Blue cries out as he is holding both sides of his skull. After his brother has disappeared again with a laugh, he regains his composure and clears his throat before asking, „By the way, regarding that Error: Have you met him again by now?“

„Nope,“ Ink denies without batting an eye this time. Wow, he probably should drink his gray paint again after that, should he not?

„Oh, I see. Okay then,“ his friend says, nodding thoughtfully. „Uh well, but actually! I wanted to ask you something else!“

„Then ask me right away, Magnificent Guard Blue!“

„Yes! It is actually related to that!“ Blue confesses while trying to tame his excitement in order to sound more serious. „So I know that your shop is not... running particularly well nowadays. Do you have some sort of, uh, backup plan? In case, uh, you know!“

Upon hearing that question, Ink's eyes become question marks. „I'll just decide spontaneously. Why do you ask?“

„Oh well... I kind of predicted you would say that... However!! I wanted to know if you would be interested in becoming a guard after all!“ A hopeful gleam lingers in Blue's eyes.

Ink blinks once. Then twice. Then bursts into uncontrollable laughter, much to the other's surprise. „I... do no get what is so funny about it?“ Blue questions, confused.

„Oh boy, Blue. Are you serious?! I didn't think you were the type for jokes!“ Ink utters between his cackling. Æther, dying from laughter twice in such a short span!

„But... it was no joke.“

For once, Ink takes his cyan paint in order to calm his giggles down. As soon as he is finished, he states, „There's no way I'm going to relive all exams again! I mean, you and Dream are my best witnesses, so you should know it: I would just fail spectacularly again!“

„Oh! But did you know that due to a lack of workers, they scaled down the requirements needed in order to pass?!“ the other explains with that glint of hope again (quite amusing, the little Blue). „Well, not that I am on board with that decay of quality... but anyhow! It is a perfect opportunity for you!“

„No matter how much they scale it down, the theory part will still crush me. My bad memory is not made for such things.“

„Do not worry! For we, Dream and I, will help you as best as we can because we can accomplish anything as a team!!“ Blue shouts proudly while he takes a stance so epic that Ink almost goes blind (seriously though: Where does the light shining behind him suddenly come from?).

„Even if I somehow magically gained all the discipline in the world, I think I wouldn't be interested anymore in becoming a city guard, you know?“

If Ink just were able to mention his deal with Error, then he could explain it properly to his friend. The thing is that he feels as if he is a part of something bigger now. What Error showed him on the screens, the mysterious connection between their dreams and the Ætherlight, this strange unexplained liquid... matters that not only concern the city but the world itself. And what if it turns out that these things are potential threats? Error and Ink would have to deal with them, would they not? Therefore, he would act as the protector of the world. Being a simple city guard seems suddenly so unappealing and lame in comparison to that!

However since Ink cannot talk about it freely right now (which bothers him to no end), he stays silent and watches Blue's hopeful expression slowly fade away. „I-I see,“ he whispers, disappointed. „Well if you change your mind, you can always count on us to help you out! Mweheheh!“

Surely the day will come on which he can be a part of their project too; then he will understand his decision. „Thanks but it's better like this anyways, really,“ Ink comments and snorts. „Wow, just imagine me being a guard! I would probably fail everyone in this city!“

***

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

< ive read them. ill come visit you in the next days so we can start putting them in order.

☆❀♡♢☃⍢ >

< stop being a dumbass.

So finally after two weeks have passed since their agreement, Error once again visits the artist's store (without telling the concrete time beforehand, so Ink is pleasantly surprised when he looks up from his sketchbook to find the familiar grumpy face in front of him). As they enter his room, Glitchy glares at the piles of papers in the corners, still untouched since his last visit, but does not comment on them any further. Instead he puts the three books he has borrowed down on the table.

„LeT me tEll yOu wHat I nOtiCeD wHen I reAd thOsE,“ he states sternly. „thE nUmbEr oF oCcurRenCes a DreAm haS sEemS to CorreLate wiTh iTs poSitiOn iN tHe tiMeliNe of All eVenTs.“

„What do you mean by that?“ Ink inquires.

„FoR eXamPle: yoUr vEry firSt DreAm oCcuReD aroUnd 31 tiMeS wHeReAs a cErTaiN diCusSion wiTh yoUr fRiEnDs haPpEneD 12 tImEs anD oUr firSt mEetiNg oNly oNce; aCroSs tHe fIrsT tHreE bOoKs aT lEasT.“ Glitchy makes a small pause for the other to process this information before continuing, „ThAt mEanS tHe mOrE oFtEn yOu dReAm aBoUt sOmeThinG tHe hiGheR thE liKeliHooD is tHat sPecIfiC eVeNt tOok pLaCe laTer. My drEaMs sEem tO apPly tO thaT RuLe tOo.“

„And can you also explain why?“

„...i hAve a TheOry.“ Error crosses his arms. „It cOuLd Be bEcAuSe sOme eVeNts aRe sImpLy fReSheR iN oUr mIndS, liKe meMoRiEs.“

„Or maybe some left a bigger impact on us?“

While letting his arms hang down loosely again, Error stares at Ink with a deadpan face. „ThEn i woUlD'vE hAd NiGhtMaRes oF oUr fiRsT cOnfRonTaTioN eVeRy sIngLe dAy.“

„Oh, awesome! So you had that dream too!“ Ink exclaims excitedly. „Wasn't that a cool fight?! Man, if I remember correctly, then you didn't attack another AU for months after that!“

„BeCauSe a cErTaiN sOmeOnE bRoKe sOme BonEs in mY aRmS.“

„Well only because another certain someone lashed out at me with his strings instantly even though I had greeted him politely~,“ he counters cheekily. „But you pretty much trashed my legs in that fight, so that makes us even.“

„WoW, yoUr gOldFisH bRaiN wOrKs foR oNce. I'm aCtuAllY iMpResSeD,“ Glitchy answers (sarcastically? Yes, that sounded definitely sarcastic).

„Of course I would remember our encounter! It's one of my favorite dreams after all!“

Surprised at that, Error blinks several times before averting his gaze and grinning for a split second. „hEh. WeirDo.“ When he spots the pinboard hanging directly above the table, he starts to take down all of the papers and notes attached to it. „LeT's UsE ThAt to gEt Us an OvErvieW.“

Enthusiastically, Ink follows his example although he throws some of the papers behind him in his excitement instead of simply putting them down on the table. During the process, he sometimes lets his hand 'accidentily' brush against the other's, watching him in amusement whenever Error recoils in disgust. Yes, his fear of touch has become very obvious since last time, even for someone like Ink.

Oh Æther, could Error be allergic to water too like in his dreams?! Ink has to test out that theory thoroughly in some kind of prank totally serious and important experiment. However since Error possesses a certain temper, the other cannot just go ahead and do his thing; it could potentially hurt their truce. Time is the key to all of this to discover the invisible boundary between them so Ink does not overstep it, but can have his fun regardless. This is probably the first time ever he has to consider something like that because normally, he just does whatever he wants without thinking much about 'limitations'. Unexpectedly enough, holding himself back is exciting too! Like a challenge to test his willpower!

„...yOu caN GeT SoMe blAnK pApErs anD pEnS in The meAntiMe,“ Error rumbles, annoyed (and quite weirded out by that mischievous glint in the other's eyes).

„Will do~,“ Ink hums and marches straight to one of the piles. „Which size?“

„ReLatiVelY sMaLl. We'Ll nEeD SomE sPaCe.“

„Hmmm, I think I'll use scissors then~“

While Ink is cutting out the pieces, Error starts to explain, „ThE lAtEsT eVenT hAs tO be OnE You SaW in YoUr FirSt dreAm sInCe alL of tHe oThEr OuTcOdeS I tAlKeD tO cOnfiRmEd toO tHaT it Is tHe moSt rEoCcuRinG onE. So leT's stArT cAlliNg iT sImPly 'thE eNd' fOr sHoRt.“

„And how do you remember this dream?“

Error goes silent for a moment before continuing, „I reMemBeR a fiGhT in oUteRtAlE, bUt i cAnNoT rEmEmbeR aGaiNst wHoM. WhEn i Try tO pIctUrE tHeiR fAcE, tHeRe jUsT cOmEs a BlaCk bLuR iNtO mInd. OthEr oUtcOdEs wEre tHeRe toO uNtiL eVerYthIng sImPly eNdS.“

„Oh, did you see me too? What was I doing all the while?!“

After staring blankly at nothing, he answers with a shrug, „...nO iDeA. YoU wEre pRobaBly kNocKed oUt fRoM tHe sTaRt.“

„That's kinda lame.“

„PffF. NoT mY pRobLem,“ Error states as he watches the pouting Ink in amusement.

„But you do remember the AU's name?“

„SiNce i wAs vIsiTinG iT vErY oFtEn, I guEsS it StuCk wItH mE,“ he responds and adds with a smug grin, „WhAt? DoEsN't thE cReAtoR hiMsElF reMemBeR tHe naMeS of The uNivErsEs?“

„Of course I do!“ Ink disagrees vehemently.

„HaRd to ImaGiNe YoU of aLl pEoPle cAn kEep tHouSaNds of NaMeS iN tHat TiNy bRaIn oF yOuRs~“

„But I can! So there's Underfell, Underswap, Swapfell-“

„YeS, yeS, yoU cAn geT tHe mAin OneS. WhAtEvEr,“ Error cuts in and throws one of the Dreamlogs on the bed, pointing at it. „ThEn pUt yoUr alMiGhtY kNowLedGe aT usE anD sTarT wRiTiNg dOwn thE eVenTs frOm tHis boOk oN thE piEcEs oF pApEr. ShoRt suMmArIeS oNly. AnD mAybE WriTe tHe tiTleS oF tHe oCcUrIng AuS toO.“

„How am I supposed to summarize them shortly? They're some long ones."

„I dOn'T kNoW, geT cReAtiVe. IsN't tHat yOur tHiNg?“ Glitchy proposes while rolling his eyes.

„Ooooh. I see~,“ Ink says before throwing himself on the bed with an energetic jump. „Maybe instead of writing their full names, I just use a symbol for each AU~?“

„IniTiAls aRe fIne ToO.“

„And each one will have its own color~“

„ArE yOu eVen LisTenInG?“

„Oooh, I think I'll give Underfell a red skull and Underswap... will get blue arrows!“

Error sighs.

In the following time, Glitchy sits at Ink's desk, reading the next volume, whereas the the latter writes the descriptions while laying on his stomach and swinging his legs back and forth in a good mood. However, he cannot help but let his mind wander until his gaze falls upon his silent guest.

…

„...I cAn fEel yoU sTaRinG at mE,“ Error grumbles.

„What? Do you have eyes on the back of your head?!“ Ink asks, snorting (and yes, he very much hopes that is true so he can include them in his future drawings!).

Unwillingly, the dark skeleton turns around on his chair. „So, wHat iS it nOw?“

„Weeeell...“

„JuSt gEt to tHe goDdAmN pOiNt.“

„So I was wondering...“ Ink prolongs further in a dramatic fashion (as an author you must know how to build suspense, after all!). „Why are your eyes red?!“

„...whaT,“ Error utters, perplexed.

„C'mon, it's not that strange to ask!“

„It'S coMpleTeLy rAnDom.“

„Was just thinking about that,“ Ink states innocently, shrugging.

„...rUle oNe, sHorTy,“ Error stresses and turns around again. „No StUpiD qUeStIoNs aLloWeD.“

„But! What if!“ Come on, Ink! Think of a sly way! „What if... you answer my question and I answer anything in return!“

„AbOut wHat?“

„Uh, anything like I said! You can even ask about my eyes too if you want! Most people do, actually!“

To his surprise, Error stares back at him and hums thoughtfully. „DeAl. OnE qUeStiOn foR a QueStiOn.“

Wow, that was easier than Ink thought it would be! He was even prepared to annoy Glitchy endlessly until he would lose all of his nerves and give in, but hey! Sometimes, plan A is all you need! Forget about all the other useless letters!

„So, rEgaRdIng my eYe cOloR,“ Error starts, bringing Ink on the edge of his seat, „...it'S rEd beCaUse oF 'dEterMinAtioN'.“

After processing this information for way too long, realization finally hits Ink, which causes his eyes to widen in wonder. „No way,“ he whispers, amazed.

„YeS waY.“

„How even?! I've always thought monsters can't have it!“

„Of CoUrsE tHey cAn, stUpId. RarE bUt noT imPosSibLe. EduCatE yoUrSelf bEtteR.“

„How do you have it in the first place?! Where did you get that?! In a lab? Or is it natural?!“ Ink blurts out.

Meanwhile Error, taken aback at first, regains his composure and interrupts the other with a cough. „OnLy onE quEstIoN, sQuId,“ he declares firmly. „NoW, it'S my TuRn-“

„So my eyes-“

„I dOn'T cArE aBoUt YoUr sTuPiD eYeS!“ Glitchy yells, frustrated as he gestures furiously with one hand (oho, but he definitely cares!). „InsTeAd, I wAnT to KnOw wHat TheSe vIalS yoU'rE coNstAntLy caRryiNg aRe foR.“

…

…

…

Crap. Ink should have seen this question coming, huh.

„...Medicine?“ he answers with a stiff smile.

„I diDn't aSk whAt thEy arE, I aSkEd whaT theY aRe foR.“

„...An illness??“

Quite unpleasantly (no, no: very, very unpleasantly), the Destroyer's glare feels like something piercing through Ink's being, demanding a response hungrily. Not able to withstand that force, he looks away, his old grin still glued to his face as his eyes become violet, gray, blue, brown, gray, violet, violet, violet-

„YoU woN't tEll mE aNy moRe deTaiLs, wiLl yoU?“

„...Nope. Private.“

„...ThoUghT sO.“

The moment Error averts his gaze Ink lets out a long relieved sigh. Well, dodged a bullet there. But before he can sip from his calming cyan paint, the other skeleton suddenly speaks up, „By ThE waY, thErE's anOtHer thInG i wAntEd to KnoW fRoM yOu reGaRdIng yoUr sTatS.“

„And what?“

„YoUr soUl sTat is stiLl eMptY.“

Oh crap.

„I thOugHt iT woUlD be jUsT a gLitCh thaT vaNisHes aFteR soMe tIme bUt sIncE iT's sTilL tHerE, tHat mUst mEan It's anOthEr aNomAly i hAve tO tAke CarE of. So...“ With a serious expression, he looks at Ink again. „...tEll mE wHat thAt meAnS.“

„Hey, pal, 'one question for a question'; forgetting your own rules now?“ he counters, his laughter sounding forced.

„FiRsTly, thIs iS noT oNe of yoUr SiLly qUeStiOns; tHis aFfeCts tHe ScrIpT. tHeRefoRe it'S a mAttEr iMpoRtanT enOuGh tO inVesTigAte further. AnD seConDly...“ All of a sudden, his voice takes on a venomous tone. „...iT waSn'T a qUeStiOn bUt a dEmAnD.“

With an offended huff, Ink replies, „How should I know that?! Then something must be wrong with your screen thingy 'cause my soul is a-okay!“

„...buT i dOn't BeLieVe thAt.“ As soon as Error stands up, pulling out his strings from his eyes, Ink's inner alarm bells start ringing, so he gets up to a sitting position immediatly.

„Hey, what are you doing?“

„I'm GoinG to cHeCk yoUr sOul. If iT's 'a-OkAy' as yOu sAiD so, tHen thErE shOuLd be nO pRobLem, shOuLdN't it?!“

„Dude, you're invading personal space by doing that!“

Ignoring the other's outcry, Error simply rolls his eyes at that while already lifting one of his arms. „JusT sTay StiLl-“

All of a sudden, Ink stands up to grab the other's hand. Hard. Letting out a shocked shriek, Error instinctively tries to pull it back but to no avail in the face of Ink's ridiculous strength.

„I find it really unfair if you're the only one setting the terms,“ he determines with crosshair pupils shining a bright red (and without knowing for sure if his paralyzed captive is even listening since he is flooded with glitches), „and I'm asking for just one thing: Don't try to pull out my soul unasked again, otherwise I'm cancelling our truce.“

Then Ink finally lets go of the other and watches him stumble backwards against the table whereas he crosses his arms. Although no reboot has occured, Error needs a whole minute to calm down. Still breathing irregularly, he questions, „ArE YoU seRiOus nOw?“

„Yes.“ Actually no. This is a bluff, more or less. Yes, even if Error knew about his condition, he still would not want to give up their new-formed bond. Yes... probably. However, that does not mean Ink wants him to know that! No one has to! „...And I can promise you that this has nothing to do with our world being weird or anything like that.“

After all those painfully long seconds, Error responds, , „...aGreEd. No moRe pRiVatE qUesTiOns frOm aNyOne oF us.“

As it turns out, they have discovered that 'invisible boundary' sooner than later, huh. After Error has settled down on the chair again, cursing quietly by himself, Ink's tension fades away at last. So he lets himself fall onto his bed, letting out a drained sigh.

***

...Oh. Ink has fallen asleep? For how long? Considering the moon is already shining outside, it must have been a couple of hours. After rubbing his tired eyes, he plants his face on his pillow and groans discontently.

„An uNpleAsaNt dReaM?“ Error inquires, still sitting on the same spot.

„You're still here?“ Ink asks, surprised.

„pFffF. YoU waNt mE goNe thAt muCh? doN't wOrrY, i'll fiNiSh tEn moRe NoTeS aNd leAvE.“

Suddenly insecure, Ink lifts himself up a bit. „Have you-?“

„No, i DiDn'T puLl oUt yOur sOuL wHiLe YoU wErE slEepIng,“ Error interrupts with a yawn. „AnyOnE woUlD'vE fElT thaT, eVeN in YoUr sLeEp, stUpiD.“

„Uh, yeah. Right.“

„BeSiDes, beLieVe iT or nOt: I'm sOmeOne whO kEeps hIs pRomIseS.“

„...Promise?“ Ink tilts his head.

„DiD yoU sAy aNyThinG?“

„...Nah. Just thought I had a déjà vu again.“

„hm. ArE yoU sTiLl mAd, by ThE wAy?“

„Mad about what? Ah, you mean about my soul?“ Ink laughs it off. „No, not really, I guess.“

„...yoU'rE wEiRd.“

„I think you might've said that one before!“

„If i rEmInD yOu oFtEn eNouGh oF tHat, yOu mAy cHanGe sOmeThiNg aBouT iT eVenTuAllY.“

„Nah, doubt that~“

Ink lays down on his bed again, letting his gaze wander across his room without any special thought in mind. The soft sound of a pen, moving frequently, fills the small chamber while the dim yellow light of Ink's table lamp fatigues his already tired eyes even more. Oh, there is almost no space anymore on the pinboard because of all the notes created today. Maybe he should buy a larger one if there is any G left... He might need to loot his cash box for that. Wait, he should probably perform an inventory of his stock before he forgets it again...

…

„Ah, I remember now,“ Ink speaks up although his voice lacks enthusiasm. „I think I dreamed about us fighting. Isn't that funny?“

„AnD whO wOn?“

„Unfortunately the dream ended before I could tell.“

Error snorts. „oR YoU don'T wAnT to AdmIt yOur deFeAt.“

„Meanie.“

…

„Wouldn't it be cool if we lived in that multiverse? It'd be more exciting than here for sure.“

„...i GuEss sO,“ Error answers hesitantly.

„...and more purposeful,“ Ink adds quietly. „If you had a choice, would you rather live in your dreams or here?“

„DoEsn'T tHaT fAll uNdeR 'pRiVatE qUeStiOns'?“

„Nah, no need to answer this time,“ he says, chuckling while floppily waving one of his arms. „I have an inkling anyways. Heh~“

„...PfFf. If yoU SaY sO.“

More minutes pass before Ink, whose eyes are already closed, hears some shuffling and Error saying, „I'm LeAviNg.“

„Yeah, yeah, g'night,“ he murmurs and covers himself with his blanket. Error merely acknowlegdes it with a grunt before closing the door behind him. For a while, Ink listens to his footsteps resounding in the hallway, which get quieter and quieter as time goes on... then silence. Wearing a goofy smile, he drifts into sleep once more. What will he dream this time? Will his former dream continue or will it be something else? Whatever it may be, Ink is more than happy to find out.

Because in his dreams, he is a true protector.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Sans

'Æther'.

A term that has been used since centuries and once only described specific scientific phenomena which either could not be observed with the bare eye or for which no satisfying explanation existed, referring to things yet to be explored. Examples were: light, atoms or magic. However, thanks to the uprising of the so-called romanticists, consisting of ambitious inventors, authors, artists and philosophers, this old, dusty term was taken away and reformed; as a result, it has become popularized among the common folk, probably more so than any other word you can think of.

But what kind of appeal does it have to make thousands of thousands of people exclaim, „Oh Æther!“ or uninformed humans call magic 'Æther' in such an awestruck manner?

Basically, the new 'Æther' can mean everything and nothing.

It can be the awful heartache whose reason to exist you do not understand yet, it can be the howling noise in the night sounding more like laments than the actual wind, it can be part of a stupid joke („How many people does it take to change an Æther bulb?“ „No one knows!“ Heh. Classic one), it still can be the atoms and light particles dancing around you...

...or it can be a rift in the sky filled to the brim with stars: the 'Ætherlight'.

Watching through a telescope that is unobtrusively set in one of the corners of the workshop, Sans is able to recognize almost every individual star, although their exact shape still remains a mystery due to a bright shine surrounding them. (Are they even stars or something different?) After a good while, he finally averts his gaze to write down some numbers on a piece of paper that is lying on a table right next to him. For a moment, his face turns grim as he checks the previously recorded values again, but then simply leans back on his chair with a tired grin.

Only seconds later, Sans suddenly hears the workshop's door being opened and closed, causing him to smile a bit more sincere while he stands up to walk over to his visitor.

„*hey there, 's that you, kiddo?“ he asks in a casual tone. „*did the bus come late again? man, their tardiness really, heh, tires me out; wouldn't ya say that too?“ The moment the skeleton catches sight of the young human at last, he furrows his brow in disappointment. „*oh, it's you.“

„*No, it's me! Your friend Frisk!“ the kid insists happily while waving both of their little hands and putting on a smile that seems as if it got stuck in place. No, not the good kind like the one his bro has; this is straight up bone-chilling. (Note to Sans: Better cut the skeleton puns, he has already grown out of them).

„*ya know, a joke loses its appeal if ya repeat it too many times,“ he comments and changes his direction to the workbench located behind him, the tiny human following him like a duckling.

„*Of course a comedian like you would know that,“ 'Frisk' answers calmly, the derogatory tone in their voice only shining subtly through. „*Maybe you can teach me and show me some good jokes? How about your newest invention~?“

Sans turns around to meet their bright red eyes. Sure, they almost look and sound like the nice kid he knows and in the past, he very often mistook both of them for the other, but in the end, it will always be as clear as day whom he is actually dealing with.

„*how 'bout ya drop ya charade and allow frisk to come forth?“ Sans demands firmly, earning a startled expression from the kid when he takes one step towards them (yup, looks definitely better on them than the constant smug grin).

Then they proceed to roll their eyes (not respective of elders, are they? Wait, correction: respect for living beings in general). „*Whatever,“ the kid mumbles and takes a chocolate bar out of their pocket. „*Just let me have this moment, okay? Your invention won't run away or anything. Unless you gave it legs and it leaves out of shame~“ While snorting at their own remark, they tear open the package with too much force, letting little crumbs of chocolate rain and land on the ground.

By the Æther (yes, this term is very much applicable to Frisk's cursed situation), why is it that the kid must share one body with this insufferable brat?!

***

Two and a half years ago...

„*Sans? What are you doing?“

„*'sup, kiddo. didn't hear ya coming in,“ Sans replied while carrying yet another crate to the pile of metal and oddments that had piled up in the middle of his workshop the last hours or so (boy, Paps would throw a tantrum if he saw that mess; the inventor better ensured no spiky things were lying around. Or his milk cartons. Or dogs). „*am just collecting some junk for a new project, that's all.“

„*Aha...,“ Frisk answered, looking confused. „*Sans, are you alright?“

„*huh? why shouldn't i be?“ he questioned. „*oh, it's 'bout that argument at grillby's last night, amirite? don't worry, bucko, 'cause i got 'em to agree that hot chocolate is best served with at least 50 percent pure milk. my arguments were just that convincing. heh.“ Almost as convincing as his passionate yelling voice of which even his brother would have been proud if he had been there to see him. ...nah, maybe not on second thought: Paps would have dragged him out of the bar and berated him for the embarrassing act before forcing Sans to help polishing his action figures as compensation. Yup, he was just that cool of a guy.

„*No, I mean... why are you all of a sudden so diligent?“

„*eh, 's that a problem? 'cause ya're looking pretty worried 'bout that?“

„*No, it's not, but...,“ Frisk disagreed hastily and knitted their brow as they were thinking about their next words (you need to learn to be patient with them, so of course Sans waited silently). „*Just two days ago, you were lying on the couch and doing nothing.“

„*was just having a cozy nap.“

„*...A nap that lasted twelve hours?“

„*time's relative, kiddo.“

„*And when Papy tilted the couch and you fell down, you kept sleeping on the floor.“

„*not the worst place i've slept on. ya should sometimes look in the laundry basket. or in the fridge if it's a friday.“

Frisk sighed. „*The only thing I don't understand is what made you so motivated all of a sudden. I believe... you said your last invention was a year ago? So what changed?“

„*nothing special, really,“ Sans insisted and sat down on the crate, still smiling innocently. „*look, uh, talking about your source of inspiration is just sometimes...“ His white eye lights suddenly wandered off to the side as a golden blush spread across his face. „*...embarrassing, i guess?“

„*But I wouldn't laugh,“ Frisk insisted.

„*and i believe ya, i really do,“ Sans stated and patted their shoulder reassuringly. „*don't take it too personal, 'kay? i wouldn't even tell paps 'bout that.“

Just as he stood up again, Frisk grabbed one of his sleeves all of a sudden and looked- oh no, it was that look again. „*What if I tell you a very, very big secret of mine and you tell me yours?“

„*that's uh, sweet, kiddo, but-“

„*I just want you to know that you can trust me, Sans,“ they said with a determined glint in their, uh, eyes (technically they were always closed; how they even managed to see is only one of Ebott City's many wonders... but the spirit was definitely there).

„*depends on the secret, i guess?“ Sans responded and shrugged. To be honest, he had gotten a bit curious himself.

Wearing a hopeful smile, Frisk gestured to him with their hand to come closer, so the kid could whisper it into his non-existing ear (to make it more dramatic? They were clearly hanging out too much with that Ink guy. Welp, it was amusing nonetheless).

Sans felt the tension rising with every silent second that passed...

...and then, finally: „*There is a ghost following me all the time...“

After letting that sink in, Sans withdrew to take a look around his workshop. „*don't see any ghost here. 's that dummy annoying you again? should i have a talk with him?“

„*No, not a ghost monster,“ they objected and shook their head. „*A human ghost.“

„*…what.“

„*Yes, they're even here in this moment,“ Frisk revealed and pointed at the empty spot next to them.

…Huh. So this was what they meant by 'humans behaving oddly when they entered their teen-age years'? And there Sans had thought his brother was clueless about this species (thinking they descended from skeletons), but as it seemed, he still had to learn much too. Maybe he should ask Toriel about that matter next time...

„*Oh, only I can see them, but they can take control of my body,“ the kid explained quite optimistically (which was... weird, considering how concerning that just had sounded, but oh well, who was Sans to judge someone for strange behavior anyway?). „*Wait, let me show you!“

„*uh, okay, i guess,“ he agreed, unsure of what to expect.

After giving him a big smile, Frisk first hid their face with their hands only to surprise the other in the next moment when they suddenly presented their red eyes and a cheeky little grin. „*Greetings! My name is Chara!“ the supposed ghost introduced themselves. „*My partner Frisk asked me very nicely to show myself, so here I am~“

That... surely was more than just weird. Had their eyes always been like that? And their cheeks that pink? Even their hair had gained a reddish tone... Sans had not even blinked when that happened, so how were they able to pull off that magic trick?

„*Cat got your tongue?“ Chara asked and giggled. „*Or are you thinking of a lame joke right now?“

„*Chara!“ Frisk suddenly exclaimed, their appearance changing from one moment to the other without any warning. When they noticed Sans's skeptical look, they murmured, „*...You don't believe me, do you?“

„*uuuh,“ he uttered while scratching his bony cheek.

„*It's okay. There's a way to proof it better to you,“ the human assured, determined. „*Chara can float about two meters away from me, so why don't you take something behind your back and let us tell what it is?“

Sans simply shrugged. „*sure, why not?“ Spontaneously, he decided to use the items inside the crate he had been sitting on and made sure to block the view with his body, so Frisk could not sneak a peak (not that he did not trust them; he knew they were an honest child after all although everything still sounded way too... eh).

„*'kay, kiddo, so what am I holding?“

After a short moment, Frisk (no, rather that 'Chara') replied, „*A screwdriver. A yellow one with gray stripes.“

„*not bad,“ Sans complimented while hidding his growing uneasiness. „*and now?“

„*A milk package. MTT brand. And it's expired since last week.“

„*oh shoot,“ the other grumbled as he checked the date on it, making Chara laugh again.

Twenty items (and all of them guessed correctly) later, Sans began to frown. No mirrors or anything were nearby, humans could not use magic anyway, so the only conclusion would be that they had spoken the truth.

„*Sans?“ Frisk called out, giving him a concerned look.

„*...fine. don't worry, i believe ya now,“ he answered, earning a relieved smile from the kid.

„*Finally. I was getting bored of that game,“ Chara complained and yawned intentionally loud. Yeah, it would take some time for Sans to get used to them. He could feel it in his bones.

„*does anyone else know about it?“

„*Only you, me and Gearey,“ Frisk explained (and Sans must grin for a moment upon hearing that nickname they had given that grumpy bucket of weed). „*They don't want anyone to know about them, but they allowed me to tell you after I asked them.“

„*they 'allowed' you?“ Sans repeated. „*hey, can they force ya to do something you don't want to?“

„*Can you two stop talking as if I'm not in the same room? I'm still here and he knows about my existence now anyway,“ Chara insisted and clicked their tongue. „*And to answer your question, comedian: At default, Frisk is the one in control. However, I can take over if they allow me to do so, like right now, or if they're weak or in distress. By the way, I don't force them; they're just being a very understanding partner.“

„*sure they are if ya use the right words.“

„*Are you assuming I'm manipulating them?!“

„*'s that so far-fetched for ya?“ Sans commented while shrugging nonchalantly before leaning a bit forward to stare directly into their angry eyes. „*pal, if i find out that you're playing some twisted games with Frisk or harming them in any way... oh buddy-“ His eye sockets became empty. „-you'll wish you'd rather have stayed d e a d.“

„*Please don't argue!“ Frisk suddenly squeaked, startling Sans in the process.

„*...joking, of course. am as peaceful as a whimsun after all. But that aside: since when are ya two together?“

„*Since the first night I've come to the Monster District.“

„*and... do you know why?“

„*...No.“

„*huh. sooo is there a way to solve this problem or-?“

„*Oh, now you're seeing me as a problem now?“ Chara interrupted. „*I'm really sorry for all of you, but you've got no other choice than tolerating me.“

„*maybe get rid of all regrets from ya past life to move on or something?“

„*Very funny, but this isn't some dumb horror movie. Besides, there is not a single thing I would regret~“

„*...yeah, doesn't take me much to believe that,“ Sans said quietly before speaking up, „*but kid, why are ya that willing to tell me any of this? not even tori knows it, i suppose?“

„*Like I said at the beginning: I want you to trust me,“ Frisk answered calmly as their gaze started to shyly wander around. „*You just... keep things for yourself all the time and I don't think it's that... healthy... so I want you to know that you can talk to me anytime and I won't tell anyone. Your secrets are safe with me.“

„*nawww, kid,“ Sans whispered, touched by their speech. Under these circumstances, how would he be able to say 'no'? That proof of trust they had provided him without batting an eye... it would be unfair of him if he did not return it, would it not? Additionally, compared to Frisk's secret, his was insignificant. Only... embarrassing, but in the end, what did it matter? They were a good kid, so of course he would trust them too.

...Welp, looked like Sans had lost that fight without much resistance, eh?

„*okay then, if ya wanna know that badly what inspired me...“

***

„*Hey!“ Chara shouts when Sans snatches their chocolate, holding it up so the kid cannot reach it.

„*ya sure sweat a lot, buddy,“ he remarks, keeping the tiny human at bay by putting his other hand on their forehead as they try to grab the sweet with their short arms. „*did you run all the way here?“

„*Not my fault. Frisky had decided to walk today and there was a stupid traffic jam where some brain dead idiots started an angry honking contest against one another,“ Chara justifies, who begins to breathe heavily during their desperate attempt to get the chocolate back. „*They got stressed... so I took... control... like a good partner... would... God, give it back already!“

„*and overworked their body again, didn't ya? you don't care 'bout their weak stamina, huh?“

Chara huffs. „*Why do you even care?! Just let me feel alive again for one. Single. Moment!“ Suddenly looking to the side, presumably glancing at Frisk, they pout. „*Don't use your puppy eyes on me! He started it!“

Sans sighs as he gives in at last and lets the chocolate fall into their greedy hands. „*fine.“

„*Finally,“ the kid whispers, still eyeing the other menacingly while they take a bite. Boy, if looks could kill, then Sans would be dead by now (assuming they could even land one hit on him, heh).

„*the bucket of weed's not with ya today?“

„*Good old Azzy wasn't in the mood to deal with your oh-so funny jokes today, so he stayed at home,“ Chara replies. To this day, Sans has never gotten to know the backstory behind this nickname they have given Flowey. Generally, they never speak much about themselves, which only accomplishes to make Chara appear more suspicious than they already are. Sometimes, Sans wonders if there are more secrets that Frisk keeps from him for Chara's sake and somehow, the thought leaves a strange twist in the pit of his soul now and then...

Welp, but all of this is absurd anyway: After all they trust each other, so there is no need for some silly worries.

„*However, there is one thing I didn't tell him,“ Chara mentions. „*Toriel was going to rearrange her book collection today, so she probably will ask Azzy for his help.“ A little giggle escapes them. „*Oooh, hundreds of volumes about boring snail facts and stupid puns... He will never hear the end of them. Poor, poor Azzy, but this is what the traitor gets for not helping me find that cookie jar~“ Without any warning, they burst out laughing devilishly.

...Oh boy. You cannot imagine Sans's irrational fear of finding himself at their knife's point, which has just overwhelmed him out of nowhere (really scary how vengeful a sweet-hungry human can get).

„*I'm done. I'm leaving the bonehead to you, partner,“ Chara nonchalantly states while discarding the wrapping on the floor. Never has Sans been so relieved to see Frisk's deadpan expression again than at this moment (which is why he audibly sighs).

„*I'm sorry for causing you two trouble,“ they apologize and pick up the garbage that the other has left behind.

„*not ya fault, pal,“ Sans assures. „*but next time, better take the bus, capiche?“

„*Y-Yes,“ Frisk reluctantly agrees with a nod.

„*now lemme brighten up ya mood a bit by showing my invention for the upcoming convention. heh, nice rhyme, eh? bet ink would've liked that one.“

Hearing their gentle giggle behind him, Sans proceeds to take a device, about as big as a shoe carton, from a shelf nearby and puts it carefully on the workbench.

„*Is this... some kind of projector?“ the kid inquires curiously as they come closer.

„*yup, ya score a point there,“ Sans confirms, flipping a small switch on the wall to let the blinds move and cover up the ceiling windows. „*now, would ya like to have the honor to activate that machine?“ Sans points at a button on the top of the projector.

Flickering appears at first before a breathtaking image of an ocean of stars fills the entire room and slowly begins to wander in circles.

„*cool, huh?“ he asks while putting his hands on his hips and watching the result of his work.

„*It's so pretty,“ Frisk comments.

„*and, uh, that's not all actually,“ Sans reveals sheepishly. „*try ta press the other buttons.“

Following his command, Frisk activates the violet one, causing the background image to become said color and more stars to appear. By pressing the blue button, yet another tone is added that blends into the previous one.

„*i created different layers of film rolls that stack on top of one another. ya can also remove them by pressing again; reminds one a bit of a kaleidoscope, eh?“

„*Now that I see it... it's the Ætherlight, isn't it?“

„*yup. took some pictures of it with my telescope.“

As Frisk tugs on his sleeve to get his attention, Sans curiously glances down, beholding their encouraging smile. „*It's really amazing.“

„*...nah, ya exaggerate,“ he responds while nervously scratching the back of his head. „*it's nothing innovative or anything. besides, it's far from perfect; the pictures are a bit blurry and the flickering is quite annoying, so there are still plenty of things to correct. ah, and there's also the problem with-“

Frisk tugs on his sleeve a second time, but now staring strictly at him (well, as strict as a small pouting human can look).

„*eh sorry, did i digress again?“

„*A bit,“ they answer quietly and then proceed to watch the starry sky in silence.

„*...and thanks by the way, kid,“ Sans adds hesitantly before following their example.

It feels actually quite nice: simply standing and existing, not working for once... When even was the last time Sans was that relaxed? Not being occupied with his big project, occasional stuff for a convention or helping Papyrus with one of his glorious fabrications? Huh, he cannot even recall it. Maybe he should start taking regular naps again once in awhile... But seeing those stars reminds him afresh of the goal he has been trying to achieve since more than two years now. So as he follows an especially bright-shining star with his eye lights, which reflect the picturesque scenery around him, Sans feels his soul thump in excitement for a brief moment.

Eventually, Sans catches sight of the little gear that Frisk is still wearing as an accessory on the side of their cap, allowing a fond memory to return into his mind. Intuitively, he pats their head, surprising the other in doing so, and promises once again, „*let's see the real stars up close one day: you, me and paps.“ A few moments pass before the kid gives him a silent nod of approval (and of determination too, of course).

At long last, the inventor turns off his machine and lets the sunlight shine through the windows again.

„*Did Papy see your invention already?“ Frisk asks.

„*nope, wanna improve it beforehand, so don't spoil anything yet, 'kay?“ Sans requests while putting the projector back on the shelf. „*hey, speaking of which: i think i might've heard a trousle of bones in the distance.“

As if his words have summoned him, both of them start to hear heavy footsteps outside that grow louder and louder as the seconds pass by...

Stomp. Stomp. Stomp.

„*I HAVE FINALLY FOUND IT!“ his brother proclaims the same moment he flungs open the door. „*AS IT SEEMS, MY MARVELOUS TOOL KIT WAS HIDING FROM ME UNDER MY BED THE WHOLE TIME! BUT NO ONE CAN ESCAPE THE GREAT PAPYRUS'S WARY GLANCE! NYEHEHEHEH!“

Æther, the tall skeleton surely has a tendency towards pompous entrances, huh? They can consider themselves lucky that they are no windows on the walls, otherwise Papyrus would definitely burst through them in a dramatic fashion... although he may find a solution to come through the ceiling someday (maybe the time has come to finally place some mattresses. Just in case).

„*I HOPE YOU ARE READY, HUMAN, TO LAY YOUR EYES UPON MY GREATEST INVENTION SO FAR.“ After making his way to the other two with major steps and putting down his box, he readjusts his googles on his forehead multiple times until they sit in a perfect angle. „*I AM EVEN SURE IT IS SPLENDID ENOUGH TO GUARANTEE ME A PLACE AT THE 'GRAND WORKSHOP'!!!“

Positioning himself with one hand on his hip and the other on his chest, right where his golden star pendant is located, to show his pride, his striped red and brown scarf begins to wave alongside his open leather jacket (yes, even the workshop's non-existing wind acknowledges his coolness).

„*awesome, bro, but ya could've just used the tools here instead or the ones on ya always carry on ya belt,“ Sans suggests. „*what makes those so special?“

„*WELL, BECAUSE THIS KIT HERE IS A VERY SPECIAL GIFT FROM A VERY SPECIAL FRIEND. I SIMPLY HAVE TO USE IT FOR THE LAST FINAL TOUCHES TO MAKE MY MACHINE PERFECT!“

Confused at this, Sans tilts his head. „*uh, which friend, exactly?“

„*WHY, METTATON, OF COURSE!“ Papyrus answers happily with a flushing face. „*HE HAS BEEN SO KIND TO GIVE ME THE OLD TOOL KIT THAT WAS USED TO BUILD HIS FABULOUS EXTERIOR WE ALL KNOW TODAY. NYEHEHEH~“

Oh no, anything but that narcissistic robot. Maybe there is still a slight chance left of his brother forgetting about him if Sans just gives him more action figures of cyborgs next Gyftmas (he can at least hope)?

Apparently his grimace is obvious enough for Papyrus to notice it. Frowning, he says, „*SANS, I KNOW THAT LOOK-“

„*nah, was just thinking how bolt it's of him to bestow ya with presents to gain ya trust.“

„*REALLY?? BUT ISN'T IT NORMAL AMONGST FRIENDS TO-“ As soon as Papyrus realizes the strange emphasis on the word, a deep scowl replaces his confused features, glaring at a beaming Sans. „*...YOU KNOW WHAT? I SPONTANEOUSLY DECIDED THAT I'VE OVERHEARD YOUR LAST SENTENCE.“

„*huh, didn't know ya could choose that afterwards.“

„*THE GREAT PAPYRUS FOR SURE CAN!“

„*wow, you're so cool, bro.“

„NYEHEH~,“ the tall inventor snickers sheepishly. „*NOW THEN! LET ME GUIDE YOU TO MY APPARATUS; IT'S STANDING RIGHT HERE IN THE CORNER, WAITING TO BE UNLEASHED!“

So that you know: Papyrus always builds his inventions with passion of which Sans is more than proud and like any passionate tinkerer would, he constructs his works by giving them a very special signature, you could say; something that makes them stand out from the crowd (inventing is like art and a form of identity too, after all).

Welp, his brother's machine is so special that Sans cannot even imagine in the slightest what it is meant to be: So the thing in the core surely looks like some kind of furnace... and at the bottom in front of it, there is standing an empty plate, several pipes hovering above it that are partly connected to the oven and partly to the other components on the sides... But what are those for? For instance that sink? Or that huge bowl of red sauce (at least he thinks that is sauce)? Or that bear dog trap?

Clearly a case of 'creative freedom', he supposes.

„*What... does it do?“ Frisk questions, eyeing the machine curiously (and maybe a bit disturbed?).

„*A VERY GOOD QUESTION INDEED, HUMAN FRISK!“ Papyrus exclaims, lifting his index finger. „*SO I WAS THINKING ABOUT AN EFFICENT METHOD TO CREATE DELICIOUS NOODLE BAKE WITHOUT THE ACTUAL NEED TO COOK IT IN THE KITCHEN. INSTEAD! THIS APPARATUS WILL SERVE YOU THE MEAL IN ONLY ONE MINUTE! ONE MINUTE!!! A TRUE REVOLUTION OF PASTA MAKING!“

„*cool, then we don't have to clean the kitchen after one of your cooking sessions anymore.“

„*MY THOUGHT EXACTLY!“ the other shouts cheerfully. „*BY THE WAY, I CALL THIS CUNNING INVENTION OF MINE 'THE PASTA MAKER 3000™'!!!“

„*what happened to the numbers one to 2999?“

„*UNFORTUNATELY, NONE OF THEM WON THE LOTTERY AS I WAS CHOOSING THE OBLIGATORY INVENTION NUMBER,“ Papyrus explains with thoughtful nods. „*HOWEVER! TECHNICALLY, THE MACHINE MUST BE READY ENOUGH TO PRODUCE AT LEAST ONE MEAL, SO LET US TRY IT OUT RIGHT NOW!!!“

„*uh, maybe i should check the sprinklers first?“ Not that Papyrus is as bad as Ink when it comes to accidental fires (thank god), but Sans's paranoia has remained ever since.

„*NO NEED FOR THAT! TRUST ME, THEY WORK PERFECTLY FINE! ALTHOUGH I APPRECIATE YOUR SAFETY MEASURES, OF COURSE,“ the other objects and grabs the red lever. „*HERE WE GO!!!“

Pulling it down with way too much force (it almost broke), the Pasta Maker 3000™ commences with an obnoxious rumble, black (and pink?) smoke emerging from the oven. Finally, after about one minute, the machine comes to a stillstand with a heavy sigh before the ingredients pour out of the pipes (sounds like the remains of a toothpaste being squeezed out with a farting noise) and land directly on the plate.

Wow... it certainly looks like death itself interesting. Basically, the soggy noodles are somewhere at the bottom, burried under a still bubbling red orange sauce that starts dropping from the plate as if it tries to escape and the minced meat... wait, is that even meat? What???

„*I SEE THE RESULT ASTONISHES YOU!“ Papyrus notices proudly.

„*uh, sure,“ Sans utters with the best smile he can muster.

„*NYEHEHEH! OF COURSE! NOW THE ONLY THING LEFT TO DO: TASTING THE DISH! HUMAN!!!“ Frisk visibly flinches although their poker face still remains. „*THE HONOR NATURALLY GOES TO YOU!“

As Papyrus passes the plate alongside a nearby fork to them, the kid stares silently at the failure food at first, a little frown beginning to form with every second that goes by.

„*hey, uh, paps?“ Sans interrupts quickly. „*they probably need something to drink; how 'bout a nice glass of milk? i think there's one in the cupboard behind ya.“

„*REALLY, SANS? YOU STILL CANNOT KEEP YOUR DRINK IN THE KITCHEN LIKE ANY REASONABLE MONSTER WOULD?“ Papyrus replies disapprovingly, but turns around nonetheless.

Meanwhile Sans gently nudges Frisk with his ellbow and points at the plate, gesturing to give it to him. Luckily, the inventor is a master of letting items mysteriously disappear (he simply knows his shortcuts). However, they shake their head.

„*are ya sure? ya don't have to,“ he whispers.

„*HAVE TO WHAT?“ Papyrus questions as he hands over the glass of milk to Frisk.

„*uh, nothing.“ Sans gives them an unsure glance. Such a brave kid... he will forever remember them as the determined soldier that they were.

Slowly, Frisk takes their first bite...

…

…and freezes.

„*...kid? ya okay?“ Sans inquires, sweating.

No answer.

„*UUH, DID I PUT TOO MUCH SALT IN IT??“

At last, they raise a very shaky thumb up, the edges of their mouth twisting as if they try to force a smile. „*G-Good...“

„*WOWIE! DOES IT TASTE SO INCREDIBLE IT MADE YOU SPEECHLESS?!“ the tall skeleton asks enthusiastically with a single tear of joy in the corner of one of his eye sockets.

„*Y-Yeah... but, um, maybe a little less sauce next time...?“

After a thoughtful pause, Papyrus calls out, „*WHY YES! HOW OBVIOUS! OF COURSE I SHOULD IMPLEMENT AN OPTION TO CHOOSE THE DESIRED AMOUNT OF ANY INGREDIENT!“

„*Yeah, a good idea...,“ Frisk agrees weakly. „*I'm sorry, I already ate not so long ago, so I'm... not that hungry now.“

„*THAT IS NOT A PROBLEM AT ALL! LET ME TAKE THAT MEAL OF YOURS AND I STORE IT IN THE FRIDGE FOR LATER!“ Papyrus suggests before receiving the plate and racing out of the room. As soon as he is gone, Frisk greedily gulps down the milk.

„*am proud of ya, kid,“ Sans praises them while patting their back reassuringly. Like every other time, it amazes him how far Frisk goes to make his brother smile (even by risking food poisoning). Maybe someday, he should return the favor to express his gratitude (and to apologize at the same time). When a happily humming Papyrus returns after a few moments, he mentions, „*cool idea, bro, but i think i might've spotted a small, uh, flaw regarding your thingy.“

„*AND WHICH FLAW?“

„*welp...“ He points with his chin at the entrance. „*...how are we going to fit it through the door?“

The heads of the other two turn simultaneously towards it. Silence follows.

„*...OF ALL THINGS THAT COULD HAVE DEFEATED THE GREAT PAPYRUS, THIS IS BY FAR THE MOST UNDERWHELMING ONE,“ Papyrus mutters.

„*nah, no problem. we can just take the sledgehammer and extend the entrance. i've wanted to do it since quite some time anyways.“

„*SPLENDID IDEA! NOW, WHERE IS THAT CRAFTY TOOL?“

„*in one of the drawers, i think,“ Sans responds, pointing at the ones right below the cupboard. While Papyrus starts from the very top, the other gives Frisk a mischievous wink.

„*...SANS, I'M BEGINNING TO FEEL VERY CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR CHOICE OF STORAGE LOCATION FOR YOUR GREASY CONDIMENTS,“ his brother states sternly as he holds up three empty cartons of milk.

„*what can i say?“ Sans shrugs. „*gotta remind myself to keep my bones healthy and strong.“

Grumbling incoherently, Papyrus opens the next one that contains a turkey made out of rubber. Giving it an unimpressed look, he accidentally squeezes it, which results into a barking sound escaping from it. While the skeleton drops it out of shock, it at least gets Frisk to quietly snort at that display.

„*YES, VERY FUNNY INDEED, SANS,“ Papyrus mumbles sarcastically. „*WHY DO WE EVEN POSSESS SUCH A THING??“

„*ya really wanna know?“

„*...ACTUALLY, NO.“

And so Papyrus continues to rummage through the drawers, finding more hilarious items like soap dispensers, socks, holiday decorations, whoopee cushions, bicycle bells, a restraining order (okay, not even Sans knows how it got in there) and so on... until finally, the drawer at the very bottom reveals the desired hammer.

„*AH, WONDERFUL! AND THERE I BEGAN TO THINK I MAY HAVE TO SPEND THE REST OF THE DAY SEARCHING FOR IT, BUT LO AND BEHOLD!!! NOT EVEN MY BROTHER'S OLD 'MISPLACING TOOL PRANK' CAN STOP THE GREAT-“ When Papyrus attempts to grab its handle, the sledgehammer stays fixed with its head on the drawer's ground. „-NYE???“

„*what's the matter, bro?“ Sans asks gleefully, one arm resting on the workbench and his chin cupped in his hand. „*ya eyes are really glued on that thing.“

„*SANS-“ the taller one utters breathlessly, as he tries to pull the tool free by using as much force as possible.

„*yeah, ya're right; it's better if i just stick to inventing than joking. heh.“

After a tired sigh, Papyrus lets go of the hammer in order to stare reproachfully at him, his arms folded. „*SANS.“

„*that's me.“

„*CAN YOU END YOUR CHILDISH PRANK SO WE MAY CONTINUE WITH THE MORE IMPORTANT THINGS IN LIFE?“

„*so laughing isn't important?“

„*NO ONE FINDS THESE JOKES FUNNY!!!“

Frisk raises one hand, stating nonchalantly, „*I find them funny.“

„*thanks, kiddo.“

„*OKAY!!! SO BOTH OF YOU HAVE A TERRIBLE SENSE OF HUMOR! I GOT IT!!!“ Papyrus shouts and rubs his face in frustration.

„*relax, bro. the solvent is right there next to the tool,“ Sans explains calmly.

„*OOF, GREAT.“ As he spots the bottle in the corner, he reaches for it...

…

…and finds out it is glued to the ground as well.

…

Later, citizens will say that day on that fateful hour, a roaring 'NYEEEEEEEEEEeeeeee...' could have been heard all across Roadin...

…and that is the story how his brother becomes an ætheral phenomenon himself. He truly is the coolest, is he not?

Ten minutes of screaming and removing the glue later, Papyrus passes the heavy hammer to Sans and announces, „*SO WHILE YOU ARE TAKING CARE OF THE DOOR, FRISK AND I WILL WORK ON THE FINAL ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE PASTA MAKER 3000™.“ He looks at the kid. „*IF YOU WANT TO ASSIST ME, OF COURSE.“ Upon seeing their eager nods, he becomes motivated yet again. „*FANTASTIC! THEN LET US NOT LOSE ANY MORE TIME! ASSISTANT HUMAN FRISK: HAND ME OVER THE TOOL KIT!!!“

Slowly, Sans makes his way to the door, very content about his achievements today so far (fooling around is a skill not everyone accomplishes, after all). However, he finds himself looking back at the happy sight of his brother and the kid tinkering on that funny creation (oh, the sink has just fallen off). …Sans cannot even express the warm tingle he suddenly feels in his soul. No, he rather does not even attempt to because giving away the answer is the same as taking this moment's magic: The unspoken is what makes it romantic and beautiful (this is what Æther is all about).

„*OH NO! THE SNARE GOT MY ARM!“ Papyrus cries out as Frisk tries to free the other (yup, he has fallen into one of his own constructed traps).

Chuckling by himself, Sans carries on to watch them from the distance, basking in the blissful view that is his family on that late afternoon.

***

When darkness falls over the capital, Sans decides to escort Frisk back home. As always, a somber mood hanging in the air greets them as they reach the Ruins. Although, already being accustomed to it, neither Sans nor Frisk are bothered by it. However, feeling restless around this area is not uncommon: The remains of the civil war are still resting here after all, untouched so they will serve as a constant reminder of what prejudice and hatred can cause. For many it certainly feels like travelling back to the past...

Well, despite most buildings lacking proper infrastructure and renovation, a fair amount of monsters are willing to spend their days here, those who underestimated how tough city life can be and have no place to return to anymore except for the Ruins where Toriel Dreemurr tries to provide shelter for everyone who desperately needs one. Every time Sans walks through this part of the city, he occasionally comes across some familiar faces, and even though he tries his best to greet them with a smile, he cannot help but feel a ping in his soul. The vast majority of them used to be plain factory workers, doing their best to feed their family, or 'romanticists' like him who wanted nothing more than follow their dreams, but failed.

…It had not been as bad before the Destroyer showed up.

…

Once again, Sans feels a familiar tug on his sleeve that brings him back to reality.

„*hm? what is it, kid?“

„*You were daydreaming,“ Frisk murmurs, concern hidden in their voice. „*We're there in case you didn't catch that.“

At first glance, probably no outsider could guess whom this property belongs to, the home's purple facade blending in with the rest of the Ruins very well and overall appearing far too modest for the monster leader's wife itself to reside here every now and then whenever the opportunity arises. In front of the house, there is a small yard where Sans sometimes spots the kid sitting near the tree in the middle and hanging out with the weed and the ghost brat.

It bugs Sans that Frisk has not more friends at a similiar age to spend their time with. (Admittedly, Sans does not know neither Chara's nor Flowey's age, but come on: One of them is a manipulative pile of junk and the other very likely descended from the devil himself... wow, just who is who in this situation?) Maybe he can set things up so Frisk approaches other kids more often?

After ringing the bell and waiting for several seconds, the gentle goat monster wearing a plain violet dress with the Delta Rune symbol on it opens the door while carrying a pot that is inhabited by Flowey, who looks as discontent as ever.

„*Greetings to you two,“ Toriel says, her voice soft.

Oh boy, the opportunity is just too perfect. „*knock, knock,“ Sans replies, watching with a smirk how her smile grows brighter whereas Flowey visibly cringes.

„*Who is there?“ she asks.

„*disguise.“

„*Disguise who?“

„*disguise bringing the kid home.“

As expected, Toriel snorts adorably, overhearing the flower's tired sigh all the while. At the same time, Frisk takes the bucket of weed out of her paws, receiving a pat on their head from her who still giggles. „*Oh my,“ she says between her chuckles, „*it has been a while since since I was laughing that much on a single day.“

„*yup, kid's mentioned something 'bout ya rearranging some punny books?“ Sans inquires, who is now leaning against the doorframe.

„*Yes and I could not help but look through some books again,“ Toriel explains and holds back another laughter as if she has remembered another joke. „*Despite that; the cemetry keeper was visiting and delievering some great puns again. It seems as skeletons have the same natural sense of humor. Is this not odd?“

„*welp, ya could say we just have a funny bone for those.“ Sans almost bites his own tongue after realizing that joke. Again, an unwanted skeleton pun (it really has to be a natural thing like Tori said, huh?). However, it brings another laugh out of the goat lady, so his self-doubts do not matter.

„*Yes, indeed!“

During their conversation, Frisk has moved sneakily to the background while Sans can only faintly make out their words.

„*Why the hell did it take so long?!“ Flowey snaps. „*Can you imagine how much I suffered-“

Suddenly Chara turns up and manages to silence the other immediately with their presence alone. „*I hope you've learned your lesson for the stunt you pulled last time.“

„*S-Stunt?“ he stutters. It certainly is pretty unsettling how submissive the weed becomes when confronted with the little demon. Thus far, not even Sans has succeeded to frighten him to this extent.

„*Oh no, you don't remember?“ Chara answers with fake sweetness while pulling on one of Flowey's petals, which causes him to wince. „*The cookie jar, Azzy. Not at all ringing a bell? Well that's okay, but better help me next time like a good friend would, understood?“

„*Y-Yes! Yes! I understand!“

Fortunately for him, Frisk appears again and lets go of his petal. „*You know,“ they mumble like always with a calm voice, „*you could've decided to say no or just go away instead of spending the whole day with her. But you didn't, apparently.“

For once, Flowey has no counter or other snarky remark in store, so he stays silent while staring blankly at Toriel.

„*Sentimental, aren't we?“ Chara comments.

„*My child?“ Toriel calls out and in an instant, the ghost brat vanishes. „*Sans and I have been talking about you staying at him for a couple of days since I must help your father with the upcoming anniversary. Of course you also could come with me, but we will be quite busy for some time, so I figured it might be for the best if you instead visit with him and his brother; that way, you would not feel lonely.“

Smiling happily, Frisk nods. „*Wonderful!“ Toriel exclaims, also very content. „*Ah, and there is a convention again in a few days, right? All of you will surely have tons of fun!“ A skele-ton. Heh. „*I hope this does not cause any inconveniences for you?“

„*nope, not at all,“ Sans disagrees. „*paps is always happy to entertain someone with his inventions or cooking skills. and, ya know, the kiddo is the best guinea pig for new puns ya could ever imagine.“

„*Well, then it is settled,“ Toriel announces and claps her paws. „*Frisk will come visit you in two days again.“

„*'kay, if that's all, then i'm gonna head out now.“ Before stepping away from the door, Sans waves at them. „*see ya two around.“

***

According to Sans, there is only one true way to conclude an overall good day: a visit at Grillby's and luckily enough, the skeleton passes the bar on his way home anyway. When he opens the door, the heavy smell of alcohol, cigarettes and greasy food instantly invades his nostril but in a pleasant, nostalgic way. Like every evening, the lights are dimmed, only a few lamps on the walls are giving off a red shine that is always reflected prettily in the glasses and bottles filled with liquor. Without any hurry, Sans walks over to the bar counter, situated at the very back, meanwhile taking in the happy chatter of the other guests and the amateurish-sounding ragtime music performed by a pianist on the stage at his left, which he almost cannot see due to the clouds of smoke. Additionally, as if it has become a tradition, the inventor is greeted by several of his fellow monsters on his way:

„*Hey, Sans,“ one of the local city guards calls out, sitting on a large table and playing poker with his pals.

„*Hi, Sansy~,“ the crazy bun hums drunkily.

„*Sans, ma man,“ the horse-like monster biker who sits near the counter says in high spirits. „*A newbie just told me no milk belonged in hot chocolate. Just screams for one of yer good ol' 'debates', huh?!“

„*nah, am too much in a good mood for that,“ the skeleton declines. „*but maybe the following week, so no need to put on a long face. heh.“

While the other burst out laughing (well, rather neighing), Sans climbs up the high stool with practiced ease, facing now the bartender Grillby whose candle head produces soft crackling noises, looking good as ever with his elegant black tuxedo. „*'sup, grillbz,“ he greets, fingergunning.

The other acknowledges him by silently nodding before tilting his head quizzically at the skeleton.

„*a nice cold glass of milk for me, 1.5%.“

After ordering his drink, Grillby goes to the small fridge where the desired item is always being stored, located in the corner behind his counter. Sans honestly cannot remember if it has been ever used for something different than his milk; after some months of visiting the bar and becoming pretty much a regular, the flame monster just placed it wordlessly there although the only ones ordering it are Sans and occasionally Frisk if they come along.

Huh, he has never said 'thank you' for that once, now that he thinks about it. (He should, should he not? (Nah, it is just a business investment, so there is no need- (Would be embarrassing (No, it would be more embarrassing to act that impolite (Come on now, Sans, why making that much of a fuss about that???)))))

A cough from Grillby brings him back to reality who only notices now that the milk is standing in front of him on the counter.

„*heh, uh, thanks,“ Sans blurts out, trying to hide his bashfulness. Nah, someday, he will show his gratitude properly... hopefully.

For a moment puzzled about his behavior, the bartender knits his brow (well, a bit hard to tell with that flame face) before pushing his glasses closer to his face and resuming to clean the dishes. A silent minute between them later, Grillby once again tilts his head at Sans, who, knowing the other for years, immediately understands his question: „*am doing great; paps is excited like always 'bout the convention, kiddo's a great help and i'm making progress too. everything's pretty alright, i would say.“

After hearing that, the other nods, which means something among the lines of, „*I'm glad to hear that.“

A pleasant silence between the two follows and Sans's thoughts start to wander as he sips on his drink now and then...

Tori is a pretty great woman: constantly working either on Asgore's side in New Home to make the district a better place or in the Ruins where she helps the poor ones in need by directly listening to their worries and tackling their problems firsthand... Sans has never shown his appreciation towards her either. And Frisk, still being so young, carries the ambassador's burden gladly, despite their reserved nature; someone like Sans would not have the nerves after a while. Kid will need a break after all the anniversary stuff is over, though. And thinking about Grillby's good deeds... Oh stars of Æther, Sans really has some amazing friends. He better cool himself down with the milk before he gets all the fuzzies again.

„*hey, didn't know shyren would be singing today,“ Sans comments as he looks at the stage again, now preoccupied by a fish lady with long blue hair that hides most of her face and a body reminding of a mermaid (rumors say her 'body' is actually her agent all along), also wearing a sparkly turquoise dress. „*must be my lucky day, huh?“

After tipping insecurely on the microphone several times, she clears her throat before signaling to the pianist to start playing. A smooth yet solemn tune fills the bar... and then the lyrics kick in:

„*Another day goes by~

Another day goes by~

And we're still relishin' in our comfy lil' lie.

*When I walk home alone~

When I walk home alone~

Ah, I know like this I'll get lost in my black world's tone.

*Why won't you walk with me~?

Why won't you walk with me~?

Over mountains, flower fields, all the skies and the sea.

*In the night a bright gleam~

In the night a bright gleam~

It's too late to realize it's the end of the dream.“

***

Two and a half years ago...

„*...so your inspiration comes from... your dreams?“ Frisk repeated carefully.

„*uh, yup,“ Sans agreed, nodding sheepishly. „*embarassing, i told ya so.“

„*What's so embarassing about that?“

„*uh, dunno how to explain this... may just appear... stupid to realists. heh.“

Determined, they shook their head. „*It's not stupid at all.“

„*It is~,“ Chara suddenly said before being replaced by a shocked and disappointed Frisk.

„*Chara! Don't be mean!“ they exclaimed.

„*...yeah, uh, a well-meant advice for ya, kid: better keep your ghosty roommate at bay,“ Sans suggested, but his worried face turned suspicious in the next moment. „*...unless they're doing that against ya will after all?“

„*N-No, it's fine! I'm fine!“ Frisk insisted. „*So, um, what are you dreaming about?“

Although Sans had expected that question, he could not help but hesitate again. They just had to be that curious, huh? Eventually, he gave in with a sigh and started to explain, „*i'm dreaming 'bout some foreign places. heh, maybe even other worlds in general.“

„*And what do you see for example?“

„*welp, uh, last time, i saw a snowy town.“ As the memories returned, his smile grew brighter alongside his new-found confidence. „*it's kinda funny; it reminded me strongly of our roadin, but it was so much smaller and practically a winter wonderland... really comfy, actually. i saw grillby's, the 'librarby' and even our house that was decorated with gyftmas stuff. heh, gets me suddenly in a holiday feeling when i think 'bout it...“

„*How do you experience these dreams? I mean, um, are you wandering around or something?“

„*here's the strange part: my dreams are always structured the same way. i'm like... some sort of outsider watching without anyone noticing me; sometimes i'm just standing there, then i'm flying like a bird or something. however, before a scenery changes, it gets dark for a moment like, uh... a transition in a movie, i guess. that's basically all. i don't think i've ever actively participated. it's a bit like watching a documentary.“

The whole time Sans was describing his observations, Frisk kept listening although it seemed as if their thoughts were simultaneously somewhere else. By their worried look alone, he began to wander if... they were hiding something?

…

No, he probably overinterpreted it. The kid had always been socially awkward. They were honest, so they surely would have told him if something was on their mind, right?

„*And how do these dreams inspire you to build a flying machine?“ Frisk asked.

„*welp, it has to do with the delta rune myth, actually,“ Sans replied. „*ya know, the legend goes like this: 'outside our orbit, where the stars are residing, there lies a realm unknown to monsterkind, a realm beyond our imagination, a realm yet to explore. the day will come on which an angel sets foot on our earth, luring all the brave adventurers to follow them, and like this, silence will fall over the world'.

so when the rift in the sky appeared, people started to connect it to this legend, for some reason claiming this is the portal leading to this 'realm'. some big dreamers tried crossing it, but weirdly enough, when ya get too close to the ætherlight, the engines act suddenly crazy and fail, so until this day, no one has ever achieved to go through it. ya following me so far?“

Frisk nodded. „*So you think you can build something that won't crash like the others?“

„*hopefully. would be otherwise more than just one or two broken bones, heh,“ Sans joked cheerfully, but flushed again once he thought of his dreams. „*ya know, i saw plenty of cool stuff in my sleep: waterfall as a giant cave with sparkles on the ceiling that look like stars or hotland as a literal lava field... they somehow remind me of the stories i used to read to paps. they're all about adventures, the mystery, the unknown; i remembered us fantasising about going on a journey to a place far away when we get older. however, over the years, i started to forget about our dream...“

For a brief moment, nostalgia washed over him, causing his features to soften, a melancholic glint hidden in his eye lights. But very quickly, he became cheerful again, maybe even more so than before. „*so this is how this project came to life. i wanna see this 'realm' with my own eyes and i want paps to see it too. i wanna see if the stories' magic is true or not... heh, guess that makes me a hopeless dreamer, eh?“

After pouring out his metaphorical heart, he eagerly awaited their response. Though slowly but steadily, his eagerness transformed into nervousness since they stayed quiet. Of course it was normal of them, but... it was uncharacteristically long. Oh, so his dream sounded silly after all, did it not? Were they thinking about a nice way to comfort him? Stars, he should have not told them. No, he should not have started with this project at all; of course it was a stupid idea driven by childish dreams. Why are they still not speaking? They should just say anything at this point before Sans drowned in his own sweat.

„*uh, kiddo, ya gotta throw me a bone here eventually, heh.“ Great, even his puns sucked under mental pressure. „*...kid? please?“

Finally, Frisk realized the other's uneasiness after a thoughtful pause, loudlessly gasping before putting a hand on his arm reassuringly. „*Oh, I'm so sorry! My mind was somewhere else for a moment!“

„*so, uh...?“

„*Sans,“ they began and, to his surprise, put on a bright smile. „*This is a wonderful dream.“

„*...ya really mean it?“ he uttered, his hope rising.

„*Yes, I mean it,“ Frisk confirmed. „*It's not an unusual wish to go out and explore other places. I... pretty much felt like that too when I first came to the Monster District. It's what you call 'wanderlust', right? Don't worry; there's nothing ridiculous about it and the dreams reminding you of your childhood with your brother just makes it cuter!“

„*w-wow, stop right there, bucko,“ Sans stuttered and pulled on the ears of his flying cap in a vain attempt to hide his flustered face. „*i start to think the only embarassing things here are you and your words...“

„*You're so silly sometimes!“ Wholeheartedly, they laughed. „*Oh, and please remember, whenever you meet someone who says your dream is nonsense-“ Putting their hands on their hips, they are, yet again, filled with determination. „*-then just bring me to that person and I'll tell them how wrong they are a thousand times.“

Sans snorted. „*ya're my friend or my parent now?“

„*Hehe, I'm your very-“ Their expression suddenly became deadpan again as they gave the skeleton two fingerguns. „- frisky assistant.“

…Oh man. There was no real reason to laugh that hard like Sans just did. Even his non-existent gut started to hurt!

„*wow, i wonder which funny guy taught you the art of perfect line delivery?“ he questioned while wiping away his tears of laughter.

„*I learned from the best,“ they stated and began to giggle too as the other took their hat off to tousle Frisk's hair. „*Hey! Stop!“

„why? situation suddenly got too hairy for the great ambassador to handle?“

Eventually, both of them stopped fooling around in order to calm down and catch their breath. Frisk is the first to become silent, wearing now a serious expression. „*But you know, what I've been thinking about just now...“

„*yeah? what was it?“

„*So... when did your inspirational dreams start?“

„*uh, can't really tell ya, bucko. probably a couple of months ago if i had to guess?“

„*Hm,“ they simply hummed. „*And, uh...“ They hesitated again.

„*...and?“

„*Um, I was just wondering if...“ Frisk paused. „*...if you had any nightmares so far.“

***

Shyren's song ends on a beautiful note, causing a fair amount of applause. Sans too claps, then takes some coins of G out of his pocket and places them on the counter. „*welp, am gonna head out now before it gets too late,“ he declares and jumps from his stool. „*see ya next time, grillbz.“

With a silent nod, the bartender bids farewell to his regular customer. And like this, the skeleton leaves the establishment and its warmth behind.

***

Once Sans enters their home, no light is burning and no sound can be heard. As expected, Papyrus must already be lying in his bed, sleeping. His brother always hits the hay early so he can wake up at six o'clock in the morning or so (sometimes even earlier if he wants to be especially diligent). Tomorrow, Paps will surely start the day by recalibrating and improving his invention... Man, he really is the coolest. In that case, Sans will definitely not stay behind.

Although Papyrus's room is located on the second level, he still tries his best to avoid any loud noises by closing the door carefully behind him and evading the parts of the wooden floor that creak the most. After walking up the stairs, Sans stands now before his own room, but his gaze wanders to his the where his brother's is. Out of old habits, he decides to check on him to see if the other is fine, so he tiptoes to his door and opens it as gently as possible...

„*...SANS? IS THAT YOU?“ Papyrus, who is currently lying in his bed, asks sleepily, startling the other in the process.

„*sorry, did i wake ya up?“ Sans whispers.

„*HM, NOT REALLY, I HAVE BEEN ALREADY AWAKE.“

„*yeah? why so?“

„*WELL, I STILL CANNOT STOP THINKING ABOUT MY-“ He yawns. „-LATEST CREATION. I STILL DID NOT MANAGE TO INTEGRATE THE FUNCTION TO CHOOSE THE DESIRED AMOUNT... IT IS MORE DIFFICULT THAN I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE.“

„*nah, ya'll find the solution eventually. ya're the great papyrus, after all. and ya can ask me any time if ya need a helping hand or two.“

„*HMM, THANK YOU, BROTHER,“ Papyrus murmurs.

„*so, ready to go to dream land?“

„*WELL, SINCE MY FORMER PLAN TO FALL ASLEEP BY COUNTING SHEEPS FAILED AND MY SECOND BY COUNTING SQUIRRELS INSTEAD TOO, I THINK THE BEST METHOD WOULD BE... TELLING A STORY.“

Interested and surprised at the same time, Sans opens the door a bit further. „*really? might've been ages ago since ya asked me that.“

„*...ARE YOU IMPLYING THIS IS SOMETHING FOR BABYBONES??“

Despite him not being able to fully see Papyrus's face in the dark, he can at least imagine very well how grumpy he must look right now, so Sans suppresses a chuckle. „*nah, never,“ he denies. „*of course i can read something for ya if ya ask me so.“

Then Sans turns on the light in the corridor, so a tiny bit can shine through the gap of the door; that way, he will be able to see enough without his tired brother being bothered by the brightness too much. After that, Sans enters the room and strolls to the bookshelf ahead. „*any preferences?“

„*HMMM, I THINK I'M IN THE MOOD FOR AN ADVENTURE NOVEL.“

A certain title catches Sans's eye as he goes through the volumes: 'The Grand Journey of Fluffy Bunny', whose cover shows an aircraft, its bulky design similiar to his own invention he is working on (well, this is where the inspiration came from, after all), being piloted by a brown-furred bunny across the blue sky. A pleasant feeling of nostalgia suddenly hits him, the corners of his mouth rising automatically.

„*hey, bro, how 'bout 'the grand journey of fluffy bunny'?“

As an answer, he only receives a sleepy hum. After placing the desk's chair right next to the bed and sitting down, Sans opens the book and starts reading, „*'once upon a time, there lived the great fluffy bunny. he was the smallest of all the bunnies in the kingdom, but no one was as brave as him or had a dream as big as his...'“

In the past, he developed the habit to change the course of the story every time he read it to his little brother. When Paps was really young, he thought the story was changing itself because it had been enchanted or something, so being fascinated by it, he always picked it as his bedtime storybook (Æther, how adorable he was). Of course Sans would not claim he was a master storyteller or even that creative, but at least, it got the other satisfied (Papyrus always fell asleep so quickly... heh, maybe his stories were boring after all). However, with his dreams now acting as a source of inspiration...

„*'...one day, fluffy bunny hopped in his airship to travel across all the places in the world no one has ever seen before...'“

„*AND WHERE DID HE TRAVEL TO?“ Papyrus has always asked the same question at this part of the story and it somehow makes Sans happy that he does it again after all those years.

„*...first, he discovered a giant mountain.“ He closes his eyes to picture the scene in his mind. „*deep inside, there was a hole he fell into, but luckily, fluffy bunny was unharmed, and when he woke up, he stood before ancient ruins.“

„*RUINS OF WHAT?“

„*of a city long gone. however, brave as he was, he stumbled through the remains, over boulders and debrises, over chasms and dangerous puzzles, until he finally found the door that led him out of the dark, crumbling ruin-“

„*OH, SO HE IS OUTSIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN AGAIN?“

„*not yet, fluffy bunny is still underground and what he finds next is a cold forest where the falling snowflakes are covering the conifers-“

„*WOWIE, THERE IS ALSO A WHOLE FOREST???“

„*yup, pretty cool, huh? you'll be surprised if i tell ya what else is down there; so fluffy bunny continued his journey, hopping through the snow...“

As the story progresses and the hero reaches a festive town, cyan-glowing lakes, hot seas of lava, a grand resort and finally the [U]nderground's capital, Sans tries his best maintaining his narrator voice to convey a sense of mystery. „*...and like this, fluffy bunny escaped and, with his flying ship, traveled all the way back to his kingdom to tell the others the story of his unforgettable adventure. the end.“

…Okay, Sans has predicted that: Papyrus fell asleep, possibly halfway through. Slowly, he puts the chair and the book back to their original places before leaving the room. „*love ya, bro. g'night,“ he whispers and closes the door.

Finally he sets foot in his own room and instantly goes for his bed onto which Sans lets himself fall with a sigh. Just this time, he spoils himself by not changing his clothes, giving in to his laziness before tomorrow, he must work hard on his projects again. Yes, it has been a good day, and the inventor cannot wait for the upcoming convention, the kid's visit, Papyrus being all happy and excited again, investing his time in his half-finished aircraft once everthing is over...

…

…

…

That is why, of all the possible days, Sans has not expected a nightmare to occur tonight.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Sans

„*Um, I was just wondering if... if you had any nightmares so far.“

„*uh well, everyone has at some point?“ Thoughtfully, Sans rubbed his neck. „*though i can't recall when my last bad dream was... could be even years ago. why do ya ask in the first place? did i mention something about nightmares without noticing it myself?“

„*Oh, um, that's because, you see...,“ Frisk suddenly stuttered and bit their lip. „*I just... got worried when I thought about what would happen if you had a terrible nightmare... You would tell someone about it, wouldn't you? You wouldn't keep quiet and bottle up your worries as usual? Can you promise me that?“

***

The strong scent of coffee fills the kitchen as the morning sun shines teasingly through the window, causing Sans to blink several times before he decides to pull down the blinds to let his tired eyes rest. Despite the bitter taste making him feel nauseous no matter the amount of milk he pours in, he takes yet another sip. Sighing heavily, Sans plants his skull on the table, regardless of the headache that consequently follows. Taking a brief nap now suddenly sounds like a tempting idea. Maybe he can close his eyes for a second or two after all...

…

„*SANS? YOU ARE ALREADY AWAKE?“ Papyrus's voice startles Sans before he gets the chance to drift off to sleep.

„*morning, bro,“ he greets the other who is still wearing his orange pajamas (of course the one with the Mettaton pattern) and a bobble hat.

„*I AM QUITE SURPRISED TO SEE YOU UP SO EARLY,“ Papyrus comments while rubbing one of his eye sockets. „*OR DID MY SELF-MADE CLOCK FAIL ME AGAIN AND IT IS ACTUALLY NOON ALREADY??“

„*nope, it's working just fine. i, uh, just didn't want to sleep anymore. that's all.“

„*REALLY NOW?“

Sans shrugs, surpressing a yawn all the while. „*hey, even i can have my good days.“

„*IF YOU SAY SO...,“ Papyrus murmurs and walks over to the counter to grab his cereals (you probably can already guess the brand at this point), but stops when he finally picks up the smell. „*DID YOU MAKE YOURSELF COFFEE???“

„*yup,“ Sans, whose eyes flutter open again, confirms.

„*AND HOW MUCH DID YOU DRINK ALREADY?“

„*...two cups?“ Upon noticing the one still standing right next to him on the table, he quickly corrects, „*three.“

After hearing that, Papyrus stares at him, a look of something between disapproval and plain confusion. „*DO I NEED TO WORRY???“

„*why? it's just coffee.“

„*THE LAST TIME YOU KEPT DRINKING IT TO MAKE IT THROUGH THE NIGHT, YOU VOMITED ON OUR CARPET.“

„*welp, but it's in the morning now and i don't see a carpet anywhere, therefore it's not a problem at all.“

„*NYE???“ Papyrus utters, confused as he furrows his bonebrow and tries to figure out the logic before shaking his head. „*WAIT! THIS IS NOT THE POINT I WANTED TO GET ACROSS; YOU WOULD NEVER DRINK COFFEE VOLUNTARILY!“

„*huh, looks pretty voluntarily to me.“

„*YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN!! YOU ONLY EVER CONSUME IT IF YOU DESPERATELY WANT TO STAY AWAKE!“

„*maybe i finally developed a taste for it?“

Unimpressed, Papyrus crosses his arms. „*YOU HATE COFFEE MORE THAN I HATE YOUR JOKES.“

„*nah, don't exaggerate now. i can get accustomed to the taste like any other adult monster can.“ To prove his point, Sans gulps down the rest of his drink in one go, which results in his eyes widening and his bones rattling for a moment. „*...see?“

Since he expects a sarcastic remark at least, he finds himself surprised instead as the other's expression turns worried. „*I MIGHT HAVE BEEN NOT CLEAR ENOUGH ON THIS, BUT I WAS SIMPLY WONDERING IF YOU ARE ALRIGHT?“

Oh shoot. This is exactly the one thing Sans has been trying to avoid. As a result, his eye lights wander around aimlessly before finally coming up with something. „*relax, bro; i promise i'm fine or do i look that depressod to ya? am actually as frappe-go-lucky as usual, heh.“

Groaning in annoyance, Papyrus dedicates himself to his cereals again. „*WELL IF YOU ARE IN THE MOOD TO PUN AROUND, THEN I SUPPOSE YOU ARE DOING PERFECTLY FINE AFTER ALL.“

„*yup, totally,“ Sans agrees, watching his brother sit down across from him.

As the flakes fall into the bowl, a sly smirk creeps onto the smaller one's face, which Papyrus recognizes immediately. „*SANS-“

„*there's no need for ya to be so-“

„*I AM WARNING YOU-“

„*...cereals.“

And so, the taller skeleton buries his head in the bowl, screaming for about a minute by himself. Meanwhile, Sans stands up to take a carton of milk out of the fridge, places it next to his brother (of course obligatory for cornflakes) and pats his back soothingly before disappearing into the living room.

***

Unfortunately Sans does not only detest coffee, but it has never been that effective on him as he wishes it to be. That is why in the afternoon, as he is tinkering on his projector to improve it, he cannot concentrate properly and starts to use the Pasta Maker 3000™'s sink to splash cold water on his face. With every hour that passes, that little action becomes more and more frequent, slowly frustrating Sans.

„*c'mon now,“ he rumbles while returning to his stool. „*just small adjustments.“ Then he picks up his screwdriver, but before actually using it on anything, he stops mid-air and draws it back, fidgeting the tool now between his fingers and staring at his work like a critical artist hesitating to draw any further. Yes, it is obvious by now: Sans is stuck.

…

Funny how skeletons are not in the same need of breathing or food, but as it seems, sleep possibly remains forever as the one thing neither humans nor monsters can beat... Heh, wait a minute: Why put the blame on his drowsiness? As if one single sleepless night would be enough to deminish anyone's creativity. No, Sans has just always been... that slow...

…

Oh, the cold water's effect has worn off again. Great.

…

To prevent himself from falling asleep, Sans slaps his cheeks and starts pacing up and down, hoping the movements will keep him awake. But at last, he hits his forehead on the golden surface of his aircraft in frustration. „*stars, i'm too tired,“ he slurs.

Staring up at his invention, Sans snorts as he realizes that it looks more like a submarine with wings rather than an actual flight device, at least if you compare it with the more conventional ones that fly with balloons. Heh, he does not even know for sure yet if his aircraft will be able to lift off, but thinking back to Papyrus's happy face when his brother revealed the plans for the first time, showing the similarities between this machine and Fluffy Bunny's, Sans begins to believe again that this has been a good design choice (and oh boy, his bro's death grip that is his embrace is the biggest kind of approval you can ever achieve).

As he strolls towards the aircraft's open entrance on the side, his gaze falls upon the comfy-looking red seats, practically begging him to rest on them and considering his weak willpower at the moment, he follows their metaphorical call. Well, Sans has wanted to take naps more often anyway, so why not start now? And once he is fit enough, he can finally finish his projector... Yes, just a short nap sounds... too good to resist...

…

So as his heavy eyelids fall and his world is slowly being consumed by darkness, a familiar dream begins to manifest itself.

***

An early evening. A dark sky. Snow falling and remaining on the ground. An ancient door firmly sealed. A pathway surrounded by coniferous trees. Chimney smoke in the distance. A branch broken in two. Footprints slowly vanishing.

Black screen.

Glazed frost. Lonely guard stations. Sculptures made out of ice. Puzzle, puzzle, yet another puzzle. A hanging bridge leading to a small town...

Black screen.

A sign: 'Welcome to Snowdin'. Houses; roofs covered with snow, icicles hanging. A tree decorated with vivid lights. People laughing, children playing. Warmth. Dancing snowflakes. A cold breeze, yet warmth. A festival about to begin. Sweet promises being made. Warmth, warmth, warmth...

B l a c k s c r e e n.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream.

Scream-

Cold.

***

Drenched in sweat, Sans awakens with a jolt, looking erratically around him while his sense of reality slowly returns. No light is shining through the windows anymore since the sun has already almost reached the horizon of the deep orange sky. Waking up in his dark, lonely workshop after a nightmare like that makes him feel... uneasy. He gulps as his breathing is getting normal again.

What the hell was that dream?!

It is the exact same one Sans kept experiencing over and over again yesterday night... causing him to awake several times. Visually, it appears to be the same kind of dream as always: looking at the environment from far away, changing locations... Nothing harmful has ever happened before, it has always been so innocent.

But oh dear god, the screams. These bloodcurdling screams.

Why has Sans started to hear them at the end every time? And why this numbing cold? Did Sans eat or drink something bad to cause these dreams? Or is this stress gnawing on him? No, nothing makes sense. The past couple of days were not unpleasant; in fact, they were quite great. So why is this nightmare coming up now?

The uncertainty behind this situation... makes Sans shiver for a moment as if the coldness from the dream creeps into reality and over his bones. Soon, he cannot stand to stay in the workshop any longer, so he quickly leaves, escaping into the warmth of his living room.

***

By the next day, Sans's frustration and exhaustion have only grown. Giving his projector glares for almost one hour, he cannot help but let a certain thought enter his mind: This has been an uninspired idea to begin with. Now and then, he looks at his brother's pompous machine. Despite its, well, flaws, it is still unique in its own way and apart from the pasta's terrible taste, it certainly is a fun process to watch nonetheless (and hey, maybe if you change the sauce, it could even become somewhat edible).

Sans's invention however... there is nothing innovative to be found. Would it not be embarrassing to show up with this amateurish thing, surrounded by hundreds of other more creative devices? The thought alone flusters him. Yes, he did better once... and now, thinking about those blurry pictures, the stupid, stupid flickering he cannot get rid of or its ugly exterior, Sans determines it is nothing more than a failu-

Confused, he blinks several times.

Black droplets.

Black droplets of... something have fallen on his projector's surface from... Sans's face?

Still irritated, he rubs it with his hand and then discovers traces of an unknown liquid on his glove. When did he smeared himself with oil? Wait, he cannot remember using oil for anything lately... After rummaging through a box that contains all kinds of random oddments and components, Sans finally discovers a rearview mirror and holds it up to his face.

…What? Was this liquid... coming from one of his eye sockets? The smudgy trace at least suggests it... Should he be worried?

…

No, come on. Because Sans always works with oil, it gets everywhere all the time, even if he does not notice it himself. Additionally, not being fully awake right now, there is a good chance of... of it intruding his socket accidentally, probably (hey, if Ink manages to get some of his paints in his skull, then Sans can screw it up too in his current tired state). Hence no need to worry.

He lets out a sigh after wiping the stain off with a nearby towel. Now, back again to his creation... He should probably discard it. With that idea in mind, Sans stands up and puts the projector back on his shelf, but hesitates for a moment as he looks at it one more time. No, actually... he does not want to be reminded of it either, so he takes a gray sheet and covers it up.

However, the odds being against him, Papyrus just so happens to storm in shortly after, his bombastic loud voice letting Sans jump out of his metaphorical skin.

„*I AM MORE THAN READY TO COMPLETE MY FANTASTIC MACHINE!!!“ he announces while holding up a paper triumphantly, possibly containing his plans and calculations.

„*heh, uh, that's cool, bro,“ Sans comments, trying to hide his surprise.

„*NYEHEHEH, INDEED!“ Papyrus agrees proudly and places his paper on the workbench his brother was sitting at some moments ago. „*SPEAKING OF INVENTIONS: IS YOURS ALREADY FINISHED?“

The other freezes.

„*...SANS? AM I ALLOWED TO FINALLY SEE IT??“

„*eh.“ How to explain that? Knowing his brother, he will certainly not accept embarrassment as an excuse. „*ya see, i have a, um, confession to make...“

„*HMMM?“

Sans gulps upon seeing his clueless expression. „*sooo, tibia honest, heh, i kinda... don't have it yet?“

„*WELL, THEN I WILL GLADLY ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR PROJECT,“ Papyrus suggests.

„*no, the thing is... it doesn't really exist.“

„*I DON'T UNDERSTAND-?“

„*well, ya see, i've been slacking off again lately,“ Sans quickly interrupts. „*i tried to work on it now and then, but nothing came outta it and i got no new ideas, so... yeah.“ What a lame white lie. Or does it still count as half-truth?

„*SO... YOU HAVE BASICALLY NOTHING?“

He nods hesitantly, getting a sigh out of the other.

„*BUT THE CONVENTION STARTS IN THREE DAYS, SANS. IF YOU HAD TOLD ME BEFORE, I COULD HAVE HELPED YOU,“ Papyrus explains calmly although disappointment is clearly written on his face, causing Sans's soul to twist in guilt. „*DO YOU HAVE A SPARE INVENTION LEFT TO PRESENT INSTEAD?“

This may be a good chance to paddle back with his plan, but... „*n-nope. sorry, i screwed up.“ Sans averts his gaze... No, wait, he cannot hang his head right now; he needs to stay positive, right? „*but hey, uh, lemme help ya with your machine instead. these are ya adjustment plans, aren't they?“

„*WELL, YES, THEY ARE,“ Papyrus confirms as his face slowly brightens up again. „*OF COURSE I WOULD BE HAPPY IF I HAD ANOTHER HAND TO HELP ME OUT.“

„*cool, cool, then let's start right away, eh?“

***

„*SANS? SANS!“ Papyrus shouts while shaking the shoulder of his sleeping brother.

„*eh? what?“ Sans mumbles groggily as he lifts up his head from the motor he has been working on for... how many hours now? Eeeeh...

„*SANS, ARE YOU ALRIGHT???“

„*'course i am. why not?“

„*THIS IS THE FOURTH TIME YOU FELL ASLEEP.“

„*really?“ He yawns. „*feels like the third...“

„*NORMALLY, I WOULD ACCUSE YOU OF NOT TAKING ANY OF THIS SERIOUSLY,“ Papyrus huffs, but his features soften again the very next moment. „*...BUT I HAVE NEVER SEEN YOU THAT... TIRED BEFORE. IS SOMETHING DISTURBING YOUR SLEEP?“

„*ya really don't need to worry, paps,“ Sans assures and stands up from his stool, swaying drowsily. „*i just charge ma battery with another cup of coffee. will be right back.“

„*BROTHER-“ Despite his efforts to stop the other, the small skeleton is already on his way out of the workshop.

„*ya'll see: i'll be as fit as a fiddle so i can continue with the fiddling again; heh, sneaky wordplay there, amirite?“ Sans halts for a second to think about his last sentence. „*wait, this sounded way better in my head. whatever, y'know what i mean.“

„*BUT-“

„*chill, i have everything under-“ When he turns around, his reflexes are too slow to register the wall in front of him in time, so he carelessly walks against it, causing his balance to falter for a moment. „*...w-welp, not total control but close.“

Finally, Sans leaves the workshop to get to the kitchen. With a sigh, he leans against the counter. Very great, he has been a burden for his brother so far. Why is it that only two sleepless nights are enough to bring him down?! There exist people out there with a perseverance so strong that they can stay awake for days and by the Æther's mystery, Sans will prove he can manage it too even if it kills him!

…

He has not been a good brother, has he? First lying, then not helping him properly by napping all the time. At least the latter he can prevent more easily with enough willpower (and gross coffee). Welp, speaking of which: It is high time to get it over with and return to the work-

„*SANS?“ To his surprise, Papyrus is suddenly standing on the doorframe (looking determined?).

„*uh, yeah? sorry, am right ba-“

Without any warning, the taller one grabs Sans and throws him over his shoulder to carry him.

„*p-paps?!“ He yelps as the other begins to stomp with big and quick steps to the second floor towards Sans's room. As soon as Papyrus enters it, he finally puts him down on the bed and wraps him in a blanket. „*thanks, i guess?“ Sans replies, still confused.

„*SHUSH, I AM NOT DONE YET,“ he huffs and before leaving the room, he adds, „*I WILL RETURN IN A MOMENT, SO STAY RIGHT THERE.“ Dramatically slow, he steps out of the chamber, all the while keeping the other in view with squinted eyes.

…

Only a few seconds later, his head pops up again. „*OH AND BY THE WAY: YOU HAVE SOMETHING UNDER YOUR NOSE.“ He points at the space between mouth and nostrils and then vanishes entirely. Intuitively, Sans touches the spot, smearing more of the unknown liquid on his glove. How much more of that oil did he get in his skull? Perhaps a proper shower can help... Before thoughts of concern get a chance to form, his brother returns with a glass in his hand. „*I, THE GREAT PAPYRUS, PRESENT YOU THE BEST MILK OUR HOUSEHOLD CAN OFFER!“

After handing it over, Sans takes his first gulp, the sweet warmth soothing his soul. „*honey milk?“ There was a time in which he used to serve his favorite drink this way whenever his brother or he were ill or not feeling well in general, but this tradition, like some others, have become forgotten over the years. So Paps still remembers it...

„*WELL, I HAVE DECIDED IT MAY BE FOR THE BEST IF YOU REST FOR NOW,“ he explains. „*OF COURSE I AM AWARE OF YOU BEING A SKELETON WITH A NEED FOR SLEEP TO STAY FIT. SO JUST THIS TIME, I WILL FULLY SUPPORT THIS ACT OF LAZINESS!“

„*uh, okay.“ A bit perplexed, Sans takes another sip. „*tastes good, bro.“

Suddenly, Papyrus's look of pride alters to one of sympathy. „*YOU KNOW YOU CAN TELL ME IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING ON YOUR MIND. I THINK IT WAS THE EXPECTATION TO BUILD AN INVENTION THAT PUT YOU UNDER PRESSURE? AND I THINK I MIGHT HAVE BEEN ANNOYING WITH MY CONSTANT BABBLE ABOUT THE CONVENTION THE PAST COUPLE OF WEEKS? MAYBE??“

„*wait, it's not your fault-“

„*NO, NO, IT IS ALRIGHT!“, Papyrus replies with a reassuring smile. „*BECAUSE!! ONLY THE GREATEST OF THE GREATEST CAN ACCEPT THEIR OWN MISTAKES AND WORK ON THEM IN ORDER TO BECOME A BETTER PERSON IN THE FUTURE! RIGHT?!“

„*uh, yeah, heh,“ Sans confirms, smirking at the confident glint sparkling in the other's eyes. „*sounds pretty cool coming from you.“

„*PHEW, I AM GLAD!“ he relies, then mumbles, „*AND THERE I BEGAN TO LOSE FAITH IN THE CREDITABILITY OF FORTUNE COOKIES...“ After a cough, he continues, „*WELL!!! FRISK AND THEIR LITTLE FLOWER FRIEND ARE SUPPOSED TO COME IN TWO HOURS. MEANWHILE, YOU DRINK YOUR GREASY MILK OF GREASINESS AND USE THE TIME TO RELAX UNTIL OUR DINNER!“

„*wow, milk and a nap? and both being suggested by you? has to be a crazy dream.“

„*YES, I KNOW; I FOR MY PART PINCHED MYSELF THREE TIMES ALREADY. NOW!!! I WILL WORK ON MY MACHINE AGAIN.“ As Papyrus grabs the doorknob, he stops for a moment, apparently remembering something. „*AND SANS?“

„*yup?“

„*I THINK I HAVE NEVER SAID ONCE HOW PROUD OF YOU I AM.“

Sans's eyes widen. „*what?“

„*YOU PROBABLY RECALL THE TIME WHEN YOU DID NOTHING BUT SLEEPING AND SLACKING OFF? BUT THEN: WHOOSH! ALL OF A SUDDEN, YOU STARTED WORKING ON THAT AIRCRAFT OF YOURS AND EVEN BEGAN TO INVENT OTHER THINGS AGAIN. WHATEVER GOT YOU MOTIVATED: IT CERTAINLY CHANGED YOU FOR THE BETTER! AND OF COURSE IT PUSHED MY MORALE TOO! YOU INSPIRED ME TO WORK MORE ON MYSELF AND MY CREATIONS!!“

„*p-paps, stop, that's embarrassing,“ Sans requests, hiding his face under the blanket now.

„*NYEHEHEHEH! BUT IT IS TRUE!“ he shouts while doing a striking pose by crossing his arms and lifting his chin (and, well, the obligatory scarf waving in the '''wind'''). „*AND IF NECESSARY, I WILL GO OUT AND TELL EVERY HUMAN AND MONSTER HOW GREAT MY BROTHER IS!!!“

„*god, please don't,“ Sans begs and becomes even smaller and smaller with every passing second.

„*WELL, MY WORK IS DONE HERE! OFF I GO!!!“

The curled up skeleton hears his laughter and rattling under his blanket and the moment it gets quiet, he lets his face and the milk peek out again. „*...i swear to the stars i'm gonna lead a hermit life if he was serious about it.“ Eventually, Sans sits up and begins to enjoy his drink properly. Thinking about his brother's words, he cannot help but smile. „*heh, i'm possibly prouder of you than you are of me.“

At last, the warm milk accomplishes its job by making Sans more tired, and so he lays down with a content sigh. Even the fear of another nightmare is gone in that moment, only happiness remains as his consciousness drifts away.

***

Very soon, the skeleton wakes up thanks to a small hand softly shaking his shoulder. „*Sans?“

„*morning, kiddo,“ he replies, rubbing his eyes. Despite still feeling quite exhausted, there was no nightmare this time around at least (and hopefully, there will be no more. Honey milk can work wonders sometimes).

„*It's evening,“ Frisk corrects, then tilts their head quizzically. „*Papy said you hadn't enough sleep lately? Maybe I should leave you resting here instead?“

„*nah, it's-“

„*Wait, what is that on your face?“ they interrupt before taking a tissue out of their trouser pocket and using to wipe something off his cheek.

„*woah, that's sudden,“ Sans comments, who is still too sleepy to really do something against it. „*and cheeky too, don'tcha think?“

Frisk does not answer, just staring at the tissue that was white a moment ago and now has a black stain on it. Did Sans not clean himself properly last time? Or... did it happen while he was sleeping?

„*What is that?“ Frisk asks with worry in their voice.

„*uh, oil, i guess. happens sometimes if ya work with machines, ya know?“

Almost suspiciously, they sniff the tissue. „*Then... isn't it supposed to smell?“

„*uh...“ Being constantly surrounded by strong scents in his workshop, Sans did not even think of it. He takes the tissue and tries it too.

…

It is odorless. Perhaps he should really get his skull checked later, huh?

„*it's fine. it's just a stain.“

„*But I believe it came out of your eye...“

„*c'mon, something just got in my socket; ya know weird stuff can happen to skeletons. don't worry, it doesn't hurt or anything.“ After jumping out of his bed, Sans adds, „*paps is making dinner, isn't he? then let's get going and protect the kitchen from his 'visionary cooking', hm?“

„*...Did you have nightmares?“ Frisk questions as the skeleton is about to leave the room.

Sans looks back at their calm yet thoughtful face. Again, this question they keep asking over and over again. Although, with Sans having not slept well, it does make sense in that case...

…

But still... he cannot shake off the strange feeling he currently has.

„*...let's not talk 'bout it right now, 'kay, bucko? am in the mood for food in the moment,“ he answers, trying to sound as laid-back as usual.

„*...Okay,“ Frisk agrees quielty and follows him down to the kitchen.

In said room, the scent of cooking noodles has already filled the air, automatically triggering Sans's inner alarm bells, who prepares himself for the worst, despite still looking as carefree as possible (he loves his bro, he really does, but all the traumas and heart attacks the older skeleton went through... oh Æther be with him). While Flowey is sticking out from his pot on the table and slurping a glass of oil with a drinking straw, Papyrus is diligently stirring the pasta on the stove.

„*PERFECT TIMING!“ the cook screams upon seeing the human. „*THESE PESKY NOODLES ARE ABOUT TO ESCAPE!“

Frisk promptly rushes over to avoid the pot's contents to spill out while Sans takes a seat on the table, remarking, „*food really has a life of its own whenever ya cook something, bro.“

„*IF THEY ONLY WERE OBEDIENT ENOUGH...“

„*hey, no wonder they wanna rebel if ya say things like these.“

„*WHAT SHOULD I TELL THEM INSTEAD? MOTIVATIONAL SPEECHES??“

„*i don't see a problem with it.“

„*...You mean despite the fact he would start to talk to food like a crazy person?“ Flowey mumbles.

„*like we're talking to a gear head right now?“

„*What a clever counter,“ he responds sarcastically. „*But oh well, I guess everything's better than talking to a monster pen.“

„*heh, to each his own if ya ask me.“

„*SANS, ARE YOU FEELING BETTER AFTER THAT NAP, BY THE WAY?“ Papyrus inquires, giving the other a quick look over his shoulder.

„*yup, feel definitely more alive now,“ Sans confirms with a thumb up.

Flowey inspects him from the side. „*You look like a corpse.“

„*welp, what can i do? i'm a skeleton, after all.“

„*I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU MEAN BY THAT??“ Papyrus rubs his chin thoughtfully, Frisk meanwhile taking care of the noodles.

„*nah, ya don't have to. see it as an insider.“

„*WELL, THE LESS I GET YOUR JOKES THE BETTER.“

„*oh, 'course i could tell ya some funny pasta jokes-“

„*GOD, PLEASE DON'T,“ Papyrus and Flowey growl simultaneously.

Everyone sits on the table when the dish is finally prepared, looking and smelling quite nice mostly thanks to Frisk (maybe some day, his brother can learn from them and start cooking better on his own; that would be like a dream coming true).

„*tastes good. ya two did a great job,“ Sans comments.

„*WOWIE, THAT IS GOOD TO HEAR! I ALREADY HAD DOUBTS SINCE UNDYNE HAD TOLD ME THE BEST MOVE WAS TO SMASH THE TOMATOES ON THE COUNTER WITH ALL OF YOUR FORCE AND-“

„*woah, stop right there; don't just believe everything that fish lady tells ya.“

„*AND WHY??“

„*Because why would you want to smash the tomatoes to death?“ Flowey counters, holding back his condescending tone.

„*EH, TO GIVE THE FOOD AN EXPLOSIVE FLAVOR??“

„*The only things that explode are our gu-“ Flowey goes silent immediately when he notices Sans's not so subtle glare.

„*'GU...'?“ Papyrus repeats, irrated.

„*...Forget it,“ Flowey grumbles and continues to slurp his oily drink, trying to ignore Sans's victorious grin (easy as always to shut him up).

„*I think it's fine to experiment by using, um, more extraordinary methods...,“ Frisk states.

„*YES! IT INDEED IS!“ Papyrus exclaims approvingly. „*FRISK, WE SHOULD ABSOLUTELY COOK WITH UNDYNE AGAIN! IT IS MORE FUN WITH FRIENDS, AFTER ALL! AND THERE EXISTS NO BETTER TASTER THAN YOU, OF COURSE!“

„*Um, sure,“ they reply nervously but happily at the same time.

„*GREAT!!! I MUST TELL YOU ABOUT A NEW TECHNIQUE OF HERS WHICH CONSISTS OF SPEARS AND BONES USED AS A STIRRING DEVICE...“

„*...They are going to die a horrible death, aren't they?“ Flowey murmurs, deadpan.

„*...i'm not even sure if i can disagree this time,“ Sans whispers back.

After the spaghetti is finished, the dessert is being served: Toriel's popular butterscotch cinnamon pie, which Frisk brought with them as a present.

„*I AM ALWAYS SURPRISED HOW YOUR EYE COLOR CHANGES EVERY TIME YOU EAT SOMETHING SWEET,“ Papyrus mentions as they watch the kid, now being possessed by the ghost brat who, of course, greedily grabs one piece. „*IS THIS SOME KIND OF ALLERGY? OR A HUMAN THING?“

„*Totally a human thing,“ Chara confirms, snickering. „*Just like us hiding under your bed at night or stealing your milk teeth~“

Papyrus gasps loudly. „*SANS! SO THERE REALLY WERE HUMANS UNDER MY BED WHEN I KEPT ASKING YOU AS A BABYBONES?!“

„*heh, nope, they're just pulling ya leg.“ Sans pats the kid's head a bit too strongly, causing them to wince. „*and they should probably stop scaring ya like that.“

„*Got it already,“ Chara hisses and glares daggers at Sans after he stops (ouch, that metaphorical hurt). Well, it gets a snort out of Flowey, who almost chokes on his second glass of oil (karma truly is everywhere).

„*REALLY NOW, BROTHER, I AM OLD ENOUGH TO NOT BE EASILY SCARED ANYMORE,“ Papyrus objects firmly. „*BESIDES, I WOULD HAVE GUESSED AT SOME POINT THAT THIS IS NOT TRUE BECAUSE, AS EVERYONE KNOWS: THE TOOTH FAIRY IS NOT REAL.“

„*I'm shocked,“ Chara answers, faking their surprise quite skillfully (though not losing their smug smirk entirely).

„*I WAS TOO WHEN I FOUND OUT! BUT DO NOT WORRY-“ In a whispering and awestruck tone, he continues, „-SANTA IS NONETHELESS! NYEHEHEHEH! I CAN SHOW YOU ALL OF HIS RESPONDING LETTERS LATER!“

While Papyrus indulges in his memories, Chara leans over to Sans, murmuring, „*So you are allowed to tell him fantasy stories but I'm not?“

The skeleton shrugs. „*get better with your storytelling first.“

Huffing, the kid stuffs their mouth full with yet another piece of pie before asking Flowey in anger, „*Can you believe that?!“

„*He's just being a stupid smiley trashbag as always,“ he replies, his gear head spinning faster in contempt for a moment.

„*Exactly~,“ Chara agrees, snickering. Wow, so much antagonism in the air. …And still, it somehow makes Sans chuckle too.

„*the pie is really good,“ he remarks and hums contently.

„*YES, MRS. DREEMURR'S PIES ARE THE BEST! FRISK, MAYBE YOU CAN GET HER TO GIVE US THE RECIPE SO WE CAN BAKE IT TOGETHER ONE DAY?!“

Shrugging, Chara agrees, „*Pfff. Sure, why not? I'd like to eat it whenever I want instead of waiting for her to make it.“ At Papyrus's expression, full of hope and gratitude, Chara snickers (but noticibly less malicious this time, Sans may add).

As the evening progresses, today's stars show themselves with a sparkle more luminous than ever before in the dark sky. And Sans, enjoying his time, does not get to realize yet that he subconsciously wishes this night to never end.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Ink

A certain thing has kept Ink pondering for a while now, yes, even disrupting him when drawing or arranging new stationeries in the shelves, his head being so much in the clouds that he somehow managed to place his breakfast waffles between the erasers and quills. Originally, his day started like any other one: rolling out of his bed in an artful manner, bouncing down the stairs (without even tripping once!), opening his store and, after sitting down on his usual spot behind the counter, grabbing his mettaphon to message his favorite glitch:

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

errööööööööööör >

youve got three guesses in which AU i saw you last night >

heres a hint: it has something to do with chocolate coins growing on candy cane trees ❂ >

< you know, ink stain, busy people like me have to do something called work at a time like this.

< but by all means, go on spamming me again if youre that eager to bite the dust earlier.

Wow, how generous of you ☆ >

and its Chocotale, by the way >

< please go drown yourself in a river.

Of course the first thing Ink did was laugh because: two threats of murder in a row (well, the second one being more of a desperate plea)! That can only mean that Glitchy is getting more honest and unfiltered towards him; the pathway to a real friendship is already forming!

However, happiness only lasted for a moment. Upon rereading his messages several times, especially the one with the emphasis on Error's work, the final realization caused Ink to slap himself on the forehead for not thinking about that sooner: Even though this is reality and not his dreams, Glitchy remains 'the Destroyer'. Not the one of alternative universes, but of inventions instead. And not that Ink remembers every detail of Sans's rant from last time, but the overall impression of Error being the metaphorical killer of some people's creativity still stays.

But why is he doing that in the first place? Due to that one stupid rule, Ink is not even able to get an answer from Error directly (it would possibly result in some kind of argument again), so he can only speculate by himself. However, he can imagine all too well that the reasons behind his actions are probably the same as his dream counterpart's concerning the AUs. Yes, Error certainly talks a lot about them being abominations and what not. Even Ink has got most of his slogans memorized by now thanks to these dreams.

And still, the Creator cannot get his head wrapped around his logic and it starts to get frustrating, especially considering the fact that the Destroyer's influence is damaging his beloved Doodlesphere too! It is actually funny: The Destroyer keeps destroying, but the so-called 'protector' cannot protect a single thing from him...

...or can he?

So this is where Ink begins to formulate a plan: What if he could change the other's perspective? Show him more of the beauty of inventions and how much fun they can bring? After all, even the Error in his dreams has a couple of AUs that he holds dear enough to spare them, so perhaps there is a chance of getting his Glitchy to show more appreciation towards inventions? Maybe even to the point of, well, not necessarily giving up his job entirely, but... you know, being at least less of a narrow-minded, bitter philistine! There, he said it!

But how to do so? Even Ink recognizes this is as a rather piquant matter and he does not want to ruin it. Telling Error about his plans is absolutely excluded anyway since he would probably not go along with any of this voluntarily. No, all of this must happen in secret and with patience on Ink's part to make this change appear natural...

…

…

Then when Ink catches sight of an article in the newspaper, an idea finally hits him, his eyes changing rapidly again at the mere thought: In the last week of July, a convention is taking place in one of Roadin's quarters again (yeah, he even noted it down on his scarf too!) and, luck being on his side, Error and he have already agreed on their next meeting, which so happens to be in the same week!

Bouncing and giggling excitedly on his chair like a child, Ink does not even notice that his current customer, an older lady, is more than weirded out by his behavior.

Now, just which excuse to use to lure Error into the convention? So far he has only visited Ink, but they have not been together in other places yet (well, besides their first encounter). There is only one way to tackle this problem: get creative! So on the day of their arranged meeting, Ink contacts Glitchy again:

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

heyho glitchy-o ✧ >

so about our meeting point... would you like to relocate it to a cafe? I know a fancy place around here ♪ >

< why.

Why not? ✿ >

< because why would i want to be seen with you in public?

< in case it still didnt get saved in the small memory space of your brain: its not my intent to become all buddy buddy with you.

Well, that was to be expected. However! It is not over yet for Ink! Time for the next strike:

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

but you see, there's a problem with my meeting place >

i recently tried to clean my rooms and now everything is flooded~ >

Of course Ink can only hope that Error does not watch him all the time with his television magic (whatever it is called again) and therefore get behind his lie. But, as it seems, he is lucky again:

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

< how?

You'd be surprised how sneaky water can be if you don't keep an eye on it >

oh and i set my kitchen on fire too~ >

< what the heck is wrong with you?!

Okay, Ink must admit that the last lie is too overboard. But hey, as long as Error believes it...

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

so basically there's gross moisture and the smell of burned toast everywhere, so i thought a visit to a cafe would be nice ☆ >

< or ill just come another day after you got rid of this problem.

Buuuut think of it this way: I surely owe you an apology for something ive done, right? >

< what exactly are you thinking of?

Dunno, anything; you give me an example >

< your existence?

Yeah we can go with that if you want to ♢ >

so you can see this invitation as an apology >

my treat and all >

the place i'm talking about has huuuge chocolate ice cream sundaes by the way~ >

like, gigantically huge >

For a while, no answer comes back. Perhaps Error is really considering and thinking about it? Ink hopes so at least; just what kind of bait could be more effective for Glitchy than the promise of chocolaty sweetness? Wow, now Ink looks like some sort of strategist on a psychological level! How neat it can be to feel smart!

However, Error keeps him waiting for longer than expected and as a result, he starts to get restless. To bridge his time, the artist begins to doodle random things: an airship, a flower, a cat while occasionally checking his messages. He pouts when there is still no answer, so to let his temporary frustration out, he decides to give the cat a top hat and the grumpiest face he can think of, pressing the pencil lead stronger than usual on the paper. Truly, his childish anger has led to the creation of the one and only 'Error cat', making him snort so hard that he almost spits all over his sketch. Boy, this is definitely worth a place on his fridge (although by now, there might be no place anymore)!

Eventually, Ink stops drawing to polish his loyal Penny while humming a song that changes its melody all the time since he always forgets his own notes. During this process, he finally receives a message from Glitchy, his eyelights changing into bright exclamation marks:

Conversation with ⌨ Glitchy ⌨

< whatever, im fine with your 'invitation' because im not in the mood for you dirtying my place either.

< but if anyone asks, youre just a client of mine and if you embarrass me in any way, shape or form, no sundae in the world will save you from annihilation.

< and also if that dessert doesnt have the size you proclaimed so proudly.

Ink cries out triumphantly after reading this, drinking a fair amount of his yellow vial and then embracing his pen companion whom the skeleton swings around as if she was a dancing partner. „I did it! I convinced him!“ he cheers euphorically. „And if I managed that, then I can change his mind too!“

Again, lost in his own world, he does not notice the looks his two customers, this time school kids, are giving him while Ink spins around like crazy until dizziness lets him collapse backwards, still with Penny in his arms.

„*Should we call someone for help?“ the human child asks nervously.

„*No dude, that's totally normal here,“ the yellow armless monster objects. „*You only call when he stops moving. Eh, mister, are you still alive down there??“

Meanwhile, Ink continues to grin goofily as he stares at the ceiling above him and is already thinking about his future plans. Sure, it is not as cool as in his dreams, but nonetheless, he is still protecting creativity in his own way and that is what counts, right?

Well, now he really wants to say a sentence like, 'Nothing could possibly go wrong at this point!' to boost his motivation, but of course he is not that stupid and knows whenever a character speaks that way, something terrible will definitely happen. So the only logical solution to counter this would be reverse psychology: Everything could possibly go wrong!

„*He, uh, has started laughing now...“

„*Yo, let's just leave...“

***

In the early evening when the time for their meeting has finally arrived, Ink does not dawdle around for a change and tries his best to be punctual this time. However, Error is still the first one there, standing in front of the café with crossed arms and no particular expression until he spots the other who already waves happily at him at a fair distance, making the glitch sigh in annoyance. Error immediately chooses the table in the lonely corner, Ink following him obediently. When they sit down across each other, the latter hums, very pleased at the very comfy seat covered with soft pillows. As he bounces a bit with a giggle, Error rolls his eyes.

„WhY diD yoU eVeN brInG yOuR pEn wItH yOu?“ he questions and points at his companion leaned next to him against the seat.

„She would feel lonely otherwise!“

Error squints his eyes at him, distrustful. „doN't pReTenD aS if i DidN't kNoW tHat YoU uSeD yOuR sTuPid gIaNt PaInTbrUsH aS a WeaPoN.“

„Aww, c'mon now; you really think I would walk around with Penny and lambast other people with her or what?“ Ink asks and snorts at that image in his head. „And she's totally different from Broomie, mind you!“

„...so CreAtiVe wIth yOuR nAmEs, aRen'T yOu,“ Glitchy murmurs sarcastically and then adds a bit louder, „BuT i gUesS coNsiDerInG yoUr sTatS I saW, YoU woUldN't bE aBle tO hUrT a flY. So yOu'Re jUsT bEinG a MorOn aGaIn.“

„Ouch,“ Ink answers with fake hurt and simply laughs it off. „So, it's not so bad here, right?“

Error gazes over the almost empty café, the setting sun shining through the windows and illuminating the place with yellow-orange colors as the scent of fresh pastries blends together with the coffee's aroma, muffled music playing from a radio nearby and the distant sound of clanging dishes and a humming voice being heard if you listen closely enough. „...i GueSs iT's a NicE cHanGe,“ he admits rather reluctantly. „WaY bEtTer tHaN yOuR cRaMpEd homE fOr SuRe.“

Yes, Ink's plan is working so far! Now the most important thing to do is to keep the other in a good mood and avoid teasing him too much (sometimes, sacrifices must be made). This will certainly be a tough challenge, but as long as he reaches his desired goal, he gladly accepts it!

Eventually, the promised ice cream sundaes are served: a chocolate one for Error and a strawberry one for Ink, both of them being around 30 centimeters high. „And? Does it fulfil your expectation?“ the latter inquires.

Staring at the huge dessert in surprise, Error responds, „It'S fiNe eNouGh.“ Then he wastes no time and tries his first spoon of ice cream, his expression instantly lighting up. After taking another and another bite, he finally notices the other observing him, Ink's chin cupped in his hand as his eyes become an orange flower and a yellow sickle. Error slides down his seat, hiding behind his cup. „qUiT sTaRinG.“

„You're sitting in front of me, what else should I stare at? The ceiling?“

„hOw aBouT yOuR oWn fOoD, yOu cReeP?“

„But food doesn't get all flustered when I stare at it long enough~“

While Glitchy utters some incomprehensible gibberish, (a strange mix between swearwords and the noise of a beeping printer being stuck with paper jam), Ink holds himself back from taking a picture of this moment all the while (oh, but how tempting it is!). To distract himself, he starts eating his own portion, humming alongside the trumpet's music coming from the radio until Error calms down again.

„So, tO gEt to tHe pOiNt,“ he speaks up after he has finished half of his ice cream. „I fOunD mY boOk aGaIn wHerE I wRoTe doWn eVerYoNe eLse'S dReAmS aNd Put aLl oF tHeM rOuGhLy oN a TimEliNe, iNclUdiNg mInE, tHouGh it hAs beComE cOnvOluTed by noW.“

He takes out a small notebook and opens a certain page before placing it on the table so Ink can see it too. 'Convoluted' is really an understatement: A horizontal line is drawn across the middle of the pages while top and bottom are scribbled with small notes so erratically written that Ink has a hard time deciphering them. Arrows that start from these entries are pointing sharply at some spots on the line. However, there are so many of them and some intersect or are even carelessly drawn over other notes, making them almost unreadable.

„Uh, you know you could've used more paper and space between them?“ Ink comments, scratching his head as he looks at the pages as if they were some sort of riddle.

„i'M nOt as wAstEfuL as yOu Are,“ Error counters while digging for the tiny chocolate pieces hidden in the ice cream.

„Aren't you rich or something?“

„DoEsn'T meAn tHaT I poLluTe mY iNveNtorY wiTh unNeceSsAry stUff liKe oTheRs do.“

Ink chuckles. „Dude, it's just paper.“

„JuSt taKe a LoOk at tHe nOteS, wiLl yOu?“ Error insists. „BeCauSe You'Re thE onE WitH thE mOst rEcoRdEd dReAmS, we'Re gOiNg tO uSe yOuR tiMeLinE we StarTed lAst TimE as The bAsiS anD aDd thOsE nOtEs to It. I prObabLy hAve tO maKe cOrrEctiOns rEgaRdinG tHe Old oRdeR aNywaY.“

Ink simply hums in agreement since he is too much occupied with reading and simultaneously eating his sundae. Despite the wild handwriting, he can still recognize some of the notes:

- one new universe

- sitting in the Anti-Void, no destruction

- five new universes

- destruction attempt: Mobtale original (?)

-> destruction successful

- one new universe

- destruction attempt: Storyshift alternative (2-4?)

-> destruction FAILED

Funny how the writing becomes more aggressive whenever the Destroyer fails, making him look like a sore loser. There certainly lies a good opportunity here to tease him again, but nah, Ink holds himself back once more, just to be sure.

- two new universes

- Nightmare raids Fellswap universes

„Say, are the Nightmare from the dreams and the one from the gang the same person?“ Ink asks, his eyes still glued to the book.

„YeS, thEy Are,“ Error confirms, nodding. „I goT a CouPle oF hiS dReAms toO.“

„So... is he helping us too?“

The other's eyes widen in disbelief. „ArE You iNsAne?“ After looking around to be sure no one is nearby, he continues, „I'm nOt iN thE mOoD to oWe hiM anYthInG rIgHt noW, sO i'M defiNitEly nOt gOinG to Ask foR hIs heLp.“

„Was just asking,“ Ink explains and shrugs nonchalantly.

„ThEn aSk lEss stUpiD qUeStiOnS neXt tiMe. Or nOne aT alL, thAt wOulD aCtuAllY be oPtiMal.“

Ink turns a couple of pages, skimming through the notes until on the seventh one, a certain entry gets his attention:

- no new universes

- destruction of Underfell

That is... kind of weird? Normally, Error writes a number behind an AU since one alone can have so many alterations. Besides, it is not even refered to as a failed or successful attempt. Was he getting lazy at this point?

„You kinda forgot to write the number behind Underfell.“

„WheRe?“

„Here,“ Ink says and points at the note.

„Oh, tHis onE. No, tHerE is nO miStaKe tHerE.“

„Okay?“ he responds, confusion written all over his face before he starts chuckling, adding jokingly, „Then I guess the entirety of Underfell just vanished?“

After letting Ink giggle for a few more seconds, Error states blankly, „It DiD.“

His laughter dies off. „...What?“

„I sAiD it diD. EveRytHinG oF iT gOt dEstRoyEd.“

„Wait, you're kidding me, right?“ Ink asks in amused disbelief, already expecting the punch line to come.

Error, narrowing his eyes, answers, „Do i lOok liKe I jUsT mAdE a jOkE?“

…

…

After a pause, Ink grabs his green vial, drinks a good of amount of it and exclaims in utter shock, „Wait, how come I didn't dream about it already?! It happens even later according to this timeline, so I must've had several dreams about it at this point, right?!“

„CalM thE hElL doWn FirSt,“ Error demands strictly and continues to casually eat his sundae all the while. „WhAt dO yoU tHinK, hoW oLd aRe oUr dReaM sElfS? HoW mAny yEarS of TheIr liVeS aRe wE eXperIenCing? ProBabLy qUitE a fEw, hUh? OnE dReaM cAn cOntAin a whOle dAy, seVerAl mOntHs or JusT a siNgLe mOmeNt aNd wE'rE haVinG tHeM sIncE oNly tHreE yEarS, so Of cOuRse yOu wOulDn't haVe sEen eveRythIng aT thIs pOinT, noT to mEntIon tHe FacT tHat sOme oF thEm aRe rEoCcuriNg alReAdy. So yOu jUst hAd bAd lucK, oR mAyBe eVeN goOd lUck, I don'T knOw, tHat yOu didN't dReaM abOuT thAt specIfiC tHinG yEt, bUt i gUeSs iT WilL cOmE eVentUaLly.“

„But when? I wanna know about it now!“

„DoN't aSk Me, I dOn'T hAve fReaKing cOntrOl oVer ThIs eitHeR.“

„That's unfair,“ Ink declares with a pout.

„Oh, tHen exCusE mE yoU don'T gEt yOuR WiLl, kInG oF sQuiDs,“ Error says with a sarcastic voice while waving both of his hands and rolling his eyes. „ThEn jUst taKe thAt stUpiD boOk anD rEaD it foR yoUrsElF, bUt doN't yOu dAre sPilLiNg pAiNt or whAtevEr crAp yOu elSe haVe oN it!“

„But, uh, there's still one thing I don't get.“

The dark skeleton sighs. „YeS, whAt elSe?“

„How did you even manage to destroy all of the Underfell universes in the first place?“

Snorting, Error responds, „It wAsn'T eVeN me wHo diD iT thIs tiMe!“

„But who-?“

„Don'T bOthEr aSkiNg; i dOn't kNoW eIthEr.“

Still unsatisfied with the answer, Ink continues to look at the notes. The further he goes, the more prevalent a certain pattern becomes:

- no new universes

- destruction of Echotale

- no new universes

- destruction of Altertale

- no new universes

- destruction of Storyswap

Now that the Ink thinks about it: He might have dreamed about some of them after all. Yes, they were sometimes dreams in which he prominently felt a pain, exactly the one that always occurs whenever an AU is dying. It often times ends unspectacularly with Ink losing consciousness until he finally awakes. Maybe his more intense ones could be those? It sounds at least plausible that the pain becomes greater with an entire AU complex vanishing.

- no new universes

- destruction of Flowerfell

- no new universes

- destruction of Zombietale

- no new universes

- destruction of Littletale

Oh, the good old pain.

As the 'Creator', who helped forming those wonderful worlds, he cannot help but feel them dying every time. A far greater torment than the Destroyer's attacks could ever inflict on him probably. And at some point, Ink started to believe it exists mainly as a punishment for his failure.

- no new universes

- destruction of Axetale

- no new universes

- destruction of Heavenfell

- no new universes

- destruction of Aftertale

Why is it that the true creators stopped inventing new worlds and stories? Why did they abandon all of the things they worked so hard on? Why did they abandon their creations? Why did they become suddenly unneeded?

Why did Ink become unneeded?

- no new universes

- destruction of Chocotale

- no new universes

- destruction of Outerfell

- no new universes

- destruction of Dancetale

… … …

- no new universes

- destruction of Haventale

- no new universes

- destruction of Dreamtale

- no new universes

- destruction of Underswap

Ink turns the final page.

- no new universes

- presumed destruction of Outertale

- 'The End'

„ArE yoU doNe?“ Error questions, causing Ink to look up with slight surprise since he forgot the world around him for a moment. Now he even registers the radio's music again, a merry melody playing.

„Uh, yeah,“ he confirms while closing the book although the last two words seem to still stick in his mind's eye.

„ArE You seRioUsLy sAd noW beCauSe of sOme dReaM woRldS beInG deStroYed?“ Error asks, raising a bonebrow.

„Huh? Do I look sad?“

„yoU're aT leAsT noT gRinNing liKe aN iDioT aS uSuAl,“ he explains and then quickly adds, „Not tHat I rEallY cAre, mInD yoU.“

„...I don't really know?“ Ink answers, rubbing a spot on his empty chest where he suddenly feels an annoying tug, a desire to be filled with certain paints slowly building up.

Blue, gray, brown? But why? Although he enjoys the life and the worlds he is dreaming about, this sudden urge to lament about them seems so... odd. This time, Ink decides to ignore it, instead taking a sip from yellow after being reminded by a certain note on his scarf again that he still has important plans for today.

„I'm totally fine,“ he assures as the blue whirl in one of his eyes is getting replaced by a yellow sun. Then he takes out his mettaphon, pretending to look at a text message. „Oh, hey, I just received the info that the guy I hired to get rid of all that dumb stuff I caused is finished! How convenient! Soooo we can go now to my place and do more of the dreamy dreamy work if you want~“

Unimpressed, Error just leans back, crossing his arms.

„What?“ Ink asks innocently.

„...yOu tRicKed mE inTo sPenDinG tiMe WitH yOu in A caFé, diDn'T YoU?“

„Uh, no?“ Damn, and there Ink thought he was more than convincing. Perhaps he should put 'acting' higher up on his priority list of 'creative skills to master' (carving soap and doing macaroni art just seemed more important, okay?).

After a sigh, Error insists, „JusT bE hOneSt.“

„Welllll~,“ Ink prolongs as he twirls his thumbs, still wearing an innocent smile. „'Tricked' sounds so mean, don'tcha think?“

„SquId.“ Error's grip on the spoon becomes harder as he narrows his eyes. „I doN't liKe bEiNg tOyEd wItH.“

„Sorry for treating you to an ice cream then?“ Ink replies, laughing carefreely as always. „C'mon, you don't hate being here, do you?“

„...tHat'S nOt thE PoiNt,“ he mumbles grumpily, his frown deepening (wow, the resemblance with his drawn cat counterpart becomes stronger and stronger!).

„Then I just owe you another apology then!“ Ink declares and starts watching Glitchy, who avoids the other's gaze with a disgruntled look on his face. „Well?“

After a pause and some incoherent grumbling, Error pushes his finished sundae aside, demanding, „...aNoTher cUp.“

Oh Æther, oh stars, anyone better ought to stop that crazy skeleton man from bursting out laughing again. To at least not overdo it, Ink puts his hands on his mouth (and also to avoid them grabbing his mettaphon to capture this moment after all), his shoulders shaking as a couple of giggles manage to escape. But before Glitchy can complain again, he quickly calls for the waiter, wiping away his tears of laughter all the while.

***

Outside, the first street lamps are already illuminating the area, the sun already almost gone although the sky is still shining in a light orange light. Walking on a cobblestone road, Ink tries to curb his joyful anticipation so the glitch does not get suspicious.

Oh, his goal feels so close already! Just a little nudge in the right direction, then the protector will have his duty fulfilled! The only thing to worry about is to not let that said nudge become a violent push down the cliff by accident. (Metaphorically, of course! There is not even a cliff around here!)

Suddenly Error halts behind him, probably already hearing the cheerful chatter and the noises of running machines in the distance. „hOld oN,“ he says, „iT's thAt dAy TodAy, iSn'T it?“

„What are you talking about?“

„The sTupiD cOnvEntiOn.“

Ink tilts his head thoughtfully for a moment before exlcaiming, „Oh yeah, I completely forgot about that!“ He laughs and as the reluctant Error still remains unmoving, he asks, „Uh, do you have a problem with it? This way is the fastest way home, you know?“

„...nO, whY shoUlD i?“ he answers, still disgruntled.

„Theeen we can continue going, right?“

Again a pause as though Error is pondering. Come on, just agree! The protector's plan cannot just end here! At last, he sighs and moves on again. „JusT doN't CompLaiN iF yoU gEt stAreD at tOo.“

Yes, Glitchy agreed! Ink feels like exploding into millions of ink blots right now, but he still cannot show too much joy in front of the other. However, he takes a sip from the orange and yellow vials. „Okay~,“ he sings merrily, bouncing a bit. „But it's not a problem; people already stare at me all the time.“

„I woNdEr wHy.“

„Me too!“

A very long and narrow street runs straight ahead and booths presenting their inventions are standing left and right, probably hundreds of them on this day! Lampions in all different colors are hanging above them, shining soft pools of light on the ground, which seem to glow brighter whenever the clouds decide to hide the Ætherlight's luminous stars for a moment. Due to the summer's heat, there are not as many visitors as last time, so at least Glitchy will not get stressed by a crowd: perfect conditions!

„ThEy cOulD bE aT lEasT leSs nOisY,“ Error mumbles by himself. „ArE thEy gOinG to Be hEre All niGhT? ArEn'T thEy DisTuRbiNg aNyoNe's slEeP?“

Meanwhile Ink keeps ignoring his complaints, instead looking curiously around him as he is searching for interesting stuff to show his grumpy companion. When something finally catches his eye, he quickly walks over to the stand and returns with the same speed. „Error! Look what I've got!“ he exclaims proudly while opening a tiny bag to reveal a red-glowing marble... which starts to burn immediately.

„goD, nOt tHesE stUpiD tHinGs.“

„Wow, the first time I've set something on fire by just touching it,“ Ink remarks, watching the marble closer since the flame neither burns his bones nor feels hot at all.

„tHat'S whAt tHeY dO: fReaKinG bUrN wHeN gEttiNg iNto cOntaCt wiTh aIr,“ Error explains, rolling his eyes at the other's childlike fascination while taking out his booklet and a pen. „AnD i tHouGht I lEt alL of thEm diSapPeaR fRom tHe mArKet...“

Pouting at the glitch who has already continued walking, Ink takes out another item he got from the stand. „Look, I also have a spinning top-“

„SpAre mE frOm tHat abOmiNatIon!“

As both of them stroll along the path again, Ink cannot help but glance at all the machines and other curiosities in wonder despite not even understanding what they may be for at first sight. Sometimes when something really piques his interest, Ink comes closer and lets himself be explained by its creator what it is for, forgetting about his impatient companion entirely for a moment. However, he still notices that Error too is observing his surroundings, even halting for a few seconds now and then to look at something, his skeptical stare vanishing for a split second, so it seems. Ink does not comment on it yet, but he grins gleefully nevertheless.

One time, they come across a stand promoting a so-called 'muscle polisher', its mascot being none other than the merhorse Aaron, equipped with an impressive twelve-pack. After rubbing some of the gel on his arm, it starts to emit a brilliant light, blinding the passersby around him while he takes out his sunglasses and begins to flex his muscular arm regardless of the whiny protests of the people whose retinas are burning.

He flexes and flexes and flexes... until he flexes himself skywards.

Both skeletons follow him with their curious gazes, the floating and shining monster becoming a mere circle of light after a while. And to Ink's surprise, it is Glitchy breaking the silence first with a quiet snort. „HeH, guEsS hIs amBitiOnS wEre jUst wAy tOo hIgh.“

As Error continues to walk away, a wide grin spreads across Ink's face and he follows him hastily with a spring in his step. „The demand for his invention will probably be skyrocketing, huh?“

„As iF. He'Ll cOme doWn To eArtH eVentUaLly,“ Error counters, smirking.

„I disagree with that heavenly!“

„BeCauSe yoU'rE aN aIrheAd!“

„You're just not as flexible as I am!“

„AnD yOu're nOt as gRoUndEd as I aM!“

Both of them begin to laugh simultaneously, earning a couple of looks from others.

Some minutes later, Ink believes he might have discovered a perfect invention for Error, so he takes one of his long sleeves to lead the way, the other stiffening for a moment at the brief touch. As it seems, it is a machine specifically made for producing hot chocolate in many different sorts: white chocolate, brownies... jelly beans? Well, if that is not creative, then Ink does not know either! As expected, Error is indeed interested in the device, already trying out one of the free samples.

„Which one did you choose?“ Ink inquires.

„tHe cHiLi oNe.“

„Cool, lemme try one too~,“ he says and takes one cup, sipping on the hot drink. It tastes sweet at first, making him hum happily, but... oh boy, that spicy aftertaste! Like an unhealthy overdose of his red paint!

„WhaT? CaN't hAndLe it?“ Error questions, watching the coughing skeleton in amusement and continues to drink his cup without batting an eye.

„Eh, guess it's not exactly my taste,“ Ink comments with a chuckle. After putting the hot chocolate down, he glances around him again, already in search for more awesome inventions.

...Wait, that tall skeleton over there... it is Sans's brother, is it not? Oh yeah, of course they would be here too! Hold on, there was something Ink wanted to do... Checking his scarf, he remembers what it was: He wanted to ask Sans something! But bringing Error along would possibly be... too risky, considering Sans's ranting nature and the Glitchy's short temper. Okay, Ink must admit that a part of him really wants to see what would happen if both of them met each other, but the protector is still on an important mission after all! So unfortunately, he cannot risk getting Error all angry when they are having so much fun with inventions at the moment! Well, maybe some other time.

„Say, are you going to try the other sorts too?“

„HaVe a ProBleM wIth it?“

„No, not at all!“ Ink disagrees, hiding his true intention behind a laugh. „I think I just saw a hot dog stand over there and I guess I'll buy some. Do you want one too?“

„No iNteResT.“

„'kay, theeen just wait here and I'll be right back!“

„doN't geT lOst.“

„It's only one street!“ Ink calls after him, as he is already on his way.

„OnE tOo muCh fOr soMeoNe liKe yOu,“ Error responds before paying his attention to the hot chocolate again.

Finally reaching the booth, Ink cannot help but stare curiously at the enormous apparatus that is currently making the most crazy noises he has ever heard. The younger brother is apparently fixing something (a fallen-off sink?) as Ink suddenly feels a tug on his scarf, asking for him to turn around.

„*Hey there...,“ Frisk greets, their whisper barely audible.

„Hey, I wanted to talk with Sans. Is he here?“ Ink inquires, checking now and then if Error is still occupied with his drink.

„*Yes, behind the machine... but, uh-“ Before they can say anything more, Ink has already turned around and walked off, finding Sans napping with his head on a table on which Flowey is also sitting. Frisk, who quickly follows him, states, „*H-He didn't have much sleep lately, so you better-“

„Nah, I just wanted to ask him one thing! Doesn't take long!“ Ink cuts in, already shaking the inventor's arm. „Sans, hey Sans, can you wake up? Sans? Sans?“

Groaning, said skeleton lifts his head. „*yeah, what's it, paps? the sink again?“

„Nope, it's me!“

Eventually Sans blinks and turns his gaze towards the other, giving a groggy smile. „*...oh. should've figured. 'sup, pal? already broke something or caused a fire?“

„Not this time! Everything and everyone is still intact!“ Ink announces enthusiastically.

„*wow,“ he utters, supporting his cheek with a palm. „*am proud of ya, hope ya can keep that track record for the rest of the day.“

„*Uh, Ink?“ Frisk speaks up. „*Is that... Error standing there?“

„*...what?“ Sans looks at the black skeleton who is standing several booths away, his eyes widening in surprise as he slowly rises from his seat. „*what the heck is that guy doing here?“

„That's, uh, a long story. Okay, maybe medium long when I think about it-“ The moment Sans begins to stomp towards Glitchy, Ink gets immediately alarmed and quickly grabs his shoulder. „Woah, hey there, what are you doing?“

„*what does it look like? i'm gonna ask that weirdo what he's up too.“

When Sans attempts to walk off again, Ink gets a hold of his collar in order to stop him. „Wowowowowow, you can't do that!“

„*w-what the hell, ink?!“ he grumbles and tries to break free from his friend's grasp by stubbornly moving forward (which does not do much considering Ink's strength).

„That's unnecessary! I have a plan here!“ he protests.

„*welp, me too and mine contains asking him very politely what kind of dirty scheme he's planning, so lemme go already!“

„Nope, can't do!“

Both of them are swinging back and forth for a while until Flowey suddenly snaps, „*Oh my god, could you two just stop?!“

„*I MUST AGREE WITH MY FLOWER FRIEND HERE,“ Papyrus adds, still too focused on his machine to turn around. „*WHY DON'T YOU JUST CALM DOWN AND TALK IT OUT LIKE ADULT MONSTERS?“

Finally, Sans stops resisting and Ink relaxes his grip. „So the thing is: Error is here with me.“

„*what?!“ Sans exclaims in surprise while Frisk gasps quietly.

„Yup!“ Ink confirms, chuckling at their baffled expressions. „I brought him to the convention to show him a couple of cool inventions! I thought I could change his mind a bit this way!“

„*...you... brought the destroyer to a convention.“

„Yup.“

„*to show him inventions.“

„Yup.“

„*to change his mind.“

„Yup.“

Sans facepalms. And then slowly, agonizingly slow, lets his hand slide down to suddenly reveal a sympathetic face.

„*ink,“ he says, casually swinging an arm around the other's shoulder. „*buddy, friend, pal.“

„Yes? What is it?“ he inquires cluelessly.

„*tell me, please: just how many times did you hit ya skull on something hard? hm?“

Quickly, Ink scans his scarf. „I lost count after the 72^nd time!“

After letting the other go, Sans sighs. „*ya see, i understand ya, that's a nice goal and all, but you're just wasting ya time and energy here.“

„And why?“

„*'cause there're people out there who won't change no matter what.“

„*But Sans...,“ Frisk murmurs, disappointed.

„*am sorry, kiddo, just my opinion,“ Sans answers with an apologetic look on his face.

„But you don't know him personally, do you?“ Ink questions.

„*don't have to 'cause i judge him for his actions and buddy...“ Sans shakes his head. „*...i'm sorry to say this, but he means bad news only. if i were ya, i'd gave up.“

Ink glances over to Error, who is still sipping on the different sorts of hot chocolate; his face scrunches up as he apparently drinks something he does not like and brightens up again once he tries another cup, grinning contently and maybe a bit goofily at the same time, making Ink laugh.

„You know, bad news have never stopped me anyways,“ he states confidently. „And I wanna try at least! Nothing will ever change if you just sit around and twiddle your thumbs, after all!“

After a pause, Sans answers, „*can't stop ya, but don't say afterwards i didn't warn ya.“ Frisk, on the other hand, shows their support by nodding determined at Ink, his spirits rising once more.

„Great! But, uh, maybe it's not a good idea confronting him. For my plan to work, he shouldn't be that angry.“

„*heh, it's okay, i hold myself back,“ Sans promises, whose good mood is back again. „*then just maybe keep him away from our stand. don't wanna ruin paps's mood either.“

„Okeydokes!“

„*...You wanted to ask Sans something, right?“ Frisk reminds him.

„Uuuuh... oh, yeah! Almost forgot!“

„*welp, how can i help?“

One more time, Ink turns around to make sure Error is not watching him since he does not want to get caught breaking one of the rules, after all! „So I wanted to know if you regularly have dreams about other worlds!“

Surprised by the question, Sans stays silent for a moment. „*uh, why you wanna know 'bout my dreams?“

„Well, do you remember some of my stories I showed you?“ Ink asks, getting a nod from the other. „So they're actually inspired by my dreams and as it seems, there are also more people having the same ones! Weird, huh?!“

„*uh, yeah, i guess: and ya think i'm a part of ya club too?“

„It's possible! Because I might've seen you too; in my dreams, I mean, because there are a lot of skeletons I know who are alternative versions of one another. So I thought you may have those too!“

Of course Ink could have waited for Error to check whether Sans is an outcode or not with his Scripty (that was his magic's name, right? Sounds right), but Glitchy is still uninterested in bringing other people in and Ink just cannot wait any longer! He wants to still his curiosity at least a tiny bit by simply asking Sans directly.

„*eh, can i ask ya something beforehand?“

„Sure!“

„*so several people ya know have the same dreams-“

„Well, not exactly the same, actually. It's from everyone's own perspective, but the story still matches!“

„*okay, got it. so i guess ya believe there's something more to them. are there also other reasons why ya think so?“

„I dreamed about Error before ever meeting him once. The first time I got to know that he's even a real person was when you told me about him!“

„*huh, i see,“ Sans utters skeptically.

„Yeah, and that's not all! All of our dreams began at the same time, uh-“ Ink looks on his scarf to check. „-on September 15 three years ago!“

„*on the kid's arrival? and also-“

„Yes, the Ætherlight! Can't be a coincidence, right?!“ Ink interrupts him in his excitement, his pupils transforming into yellow and orange stars. „So that's why Error and I are collecting our dreams!“

„*So... the two of you are working together? That's nice to hear,“ Frisk comments, smiling softly. „*Are you getting along well?“

„We're doing great! We even have nicknames for each other!“

„*Ah, I see,“ they answer before giggling all of a sudden. „*If I had to guess... I'd say yours has something to do with your... height?“

„Wow, are you a psychic?!“

„*could we maybe go back to the topic again?“ Sans requests. „*so why are you two doing this? just for fun?“

„Hmm, well, it sure is fun, but...,“ Ink begins, his eyes shining brightly again to reflect his passion, „imagine them having some kind of meaning! Or, I don't know, maybe being somewhat real! Wouldn't that be awesome?!“

…

...Huh? Why is Sans suddenly so quiet? And even for a skeleton he looks pale.

„Did I say something weird?“

„*uh, ya could say so,“ he utters. „*dreams being real... that sounds... uh, pretty crazy...“

„*...Sans?“ Frisk murmurs, squeezing his hand reassuringly.

„*eh, 'm fine,“ he reassures and smiles again as usual. „*have to disappoint ya, pal, but i don't have those dreams you're talking 'bout.“

„Really not?“

„*nope, they're more about, heh, the traumas of ya fires and what not.“

„Oh, okay,“ Ink says, indeed disappointed.

„*nah, don't be sad. ya still have some exciting plans ahead of ya, haven't ya?“

„Plans?“ His eyes turn into a gear and hourglass before he finally exclaims, „Oh, yeah! Error's still waiting for me!“

„*better not let him then, huh?“ Sans suggests and adds with a worried expression, „*and take care of yourself.“

„Will do~,“ Ink hums and strolls back again, waving them goodbye.

„WhaT tHe hEll tOoK yOu sO loNg?“ Error questions, annoyed.

Ink is about to answer as he suddenly stops and thinks for a moment. „Wait, can you tell me what I wanted to do again?“

„BuYinG a hOt doG?“

„...Oh, yes, a hot dog! Kinda got distracted by some of the inventions,“ he confesses, chuckling before grabbing Error's sleeve again to quickly pull him out of reach of Sans and the others. „I saw a cool thingy over there, have to show you~“

„sToP gRaBbInG mE lIkE tHaT eVeRy TimE!“ he cries out. „...wAit, aM i sMelliNg bUrnEd paStA riGhT nOw?“

„Yes, I think you are.“

„...tHe InvEntOrS arE getTiNg cRapPieR eVerY yeAr.“

So both of them continue their way. Sometimes, Ink indeed gets to notice some of the stares of those who apparently recognize the Destroyer; they start to frown and whisper among each other. To avoid potential conflict, Ink makes sure to skip their booths and quickly move on. But at the same time, he still looks out for some interesting devices to show to Error of course!

„Look at this thing!“ Ink calls out excitedly.

„WhaT tHe hEll iS thAt eVen?“

Two mechanical hands attached to a longer stick are currently peeling a banana after its wielder pressed a button on the handle. „It peels fruits!“

„HoW imPreSsiVe,“ Error comments sarcastically. „BeCaUse nO onE cAn dO iT tHemSelVeS noWadAyS or wHat?“

„Well, what about people with no arms?“

„ThAt's wHy wE seLl fRuIts thAt arE alReaDy peEleD,“ he explains, watching its inventor taking the same yellow fruit for the third time to peel. „AnD cAn tHat tHinG oNly dO bAnAnas?!“

„*Hmph,“ the red bird monster huffs and takes an orange instead. The mechanical hands slowly, very slowly start to peel...

...and without any warning crushes the fruit, its juices hitting Ink's and Error's faces. While the former is still grinning and blinking goofily, the latter wipes it off with his hand and curses.

Next, the two of them spot a puppet theater, Ink being the curious one to stop and watch. In a niche at the very back, a small lodge with an opening in which the little stage is located is standing there, a scarfed mouse sitting at the top operating the strings while their partner, a red-horned monster, is gleefully narrating the story to their child audience sitting in front of the booth.

„*...and so, the Angel from another realm created a rift in the sky to catch a glimpse of our world and we, living here, could sneak a peek at the realm's night sky too.“

After turning a crank at the booth's side, the stage's dark background begins to change its colors: pink, violet, blue while several little light bulbs start burning, representing stars. A winged figure floats down, completely made out of metal pieces and wearing an empty expression.

„*The Angel wanted to give us a chance to visit their realm, so they called out to all adventurers brave enough...“

The figure waves their tiny hands, a welcoming gesture to invite someone. „*...'Come with me, I will show you a world so wonderful you will never want to return anymore'.“

Apparently, Error is already bored and starts to walk off, so Ink quickly follows him, only hearing the last words of the show behind him. „*And so, because everyone of our world had vanished, following the Angel's call, silence was all that remained. The end.“

Of course not only monsters participate in the convention; humans do too! They meet a group of them who is wearing weird robes and masks with a long beak, brewing bubbling colorful potions. One of the humans is currently mixing two substances together, achieving a little cloud to puff out of the flask that takes the form of a heart while their partner next to them tries to do the same, but nothing happens. Irritated by that, they shake the bottle a bit before all of a sudden, black smoke erupts from it, the shock wave knocking them out.

However, as one of the mixtures gets poured onto a bright blue Echo Flower that starts radiating a beautiful light in the rainbow colors, Ink is happy to see that Error seems to enjoy the spectacle too. Although upon noticing his stare, he coughs and proceeds to stomp away, putting on an unimpressed look again (geez, where does that funny stubbornness come from?).

The next stand that grabs Ink's attention is all about... soot?

„*Um, Mister Ink?“ Sootdrake whispers, sweating nervously (wait, the artist knows him, right?). „*The guy next to you-“

„*What is he doing here?!“ his father, emerging from behind, shouts as he glares at the Destroyer with wide eyes. „*There is no place for heartless bureaucrats here! Shoo, I say, shoo!“

„Uh, guess we should be going then,“ Ink suggests, still in good spirits, and is about to grab Error's sleeve again, however, the glitch quickly shakes his hand off.

„Is ThiS yOuR wAy oF trEatiNg yOuR cuStoMerS?“ he counters, grinning gloatlingly at him. „In tHaT cAse, yOur buSinEss WoN't sUrviVe fOr lOnG, buT oH weLl, nOt liKe aNyoNe wOulD mOurN oVeR thAt~“

Fluffing up his feathers in rage, the bird monster replies, „*Oh, yes?! Then that counts for your company all the more! In fact, plenty of people would even be happy with you left out of the picture!“

„BeCauSe mOst of yOu aPpaRentLy liKe liVinG in A ciTy fiLleD wiTh fiLthY fActOriEs. It sUitS yoU aT leAsT wElL.“

„Soooooo~,“ Ink interrupts hastily. But wait, he has never settled a dispute, has he? This is normally a specialty of Frisk and Dream (Ink being the 'standing on the sidelines and enjoying the show' or even 'causing someone or something to explode in the first place' type of guy). „How about we calm down for a bit and instead admire the cool thingies again? We don't wanna ruin the, uh, party atmosphere, right??“

„*Y-Yeah, exactly,“ Sootdrake agrees, stuttering. „*We're keeping visitors away by creating a drama now, dad.“

„*Hmpf, it's more because of his presence here,“ his father grumbles and thinks for a moment before stomping away. „*I need to cool myself down before the stress makes my feathers fall off.“

„ReAllY noW, evEryOnE heRe is uNgraTefUl aS heLl,“ Error huffs, half-amused and half-frustrated, and takes out his booklet again. „aNd thIs sOot sTufF is sTupId tOo.“

„What exactly are you writing all the time?“ Ink inquires and curiously sneaks a peek from the side although Glitchy distances himself immediately again.

„I'm mAkiNg nOteS fOr mYseLf.“

„Of what?“

Huh, these seem to be descriptions of some of the inventions they saw today if Ink deciphered Error's handwriting correctly (seriously now, he has to work with him on it eventually to make it prettier). Oh, perhaps he wrote down all of his favorites-

Error chuckles. „aWfuLly pErsiStenT, arEn'T yOu?“ he remarks and smirks proudly. „I'vE beEn coLleCtiNg inForMatIoN on aLl of The aboMinAtioNs thAt I haVe to gEt riD of in The fUtuRe.“

...Oh.

„But these are... a lot,“ Ink notes, baffled at the amount of notes. This has to be at least half of all of the stuff they saw, right? No, very likely even more, and both of them have almost reached the end of the convention by now.

„BeCauSe thIs pLaCe hAs a loT of GarbAge to oFfeR.“ Garbage? „sO tAkinG thIs rOutE acTualLy beNefiTteD mE aNd mY woRk. HeH, noW i kNow wHat tO loOk oUt foR in thE fuTurE.“ Upon seeing the other's frown, he rolls his eyes. „ComE on, Do yoU sEriOusLy feEl sOrrY foR aNy of tHiS amAteUriSh cRap? I bEt You'Ll haVe fOrgOtTen mOsT of iT by tOmoRroW anYwaY.“

„Uh, I mean-“

„WhaTevEr, i don'T caRe. I'vE haD enOuGh nOteS fOr toDaY, so lEt'S jUsT cOntiNue WitH oUr orIgiNaL pLan wE haD,“ Error interjects and turns around to walk off.

…

Wait, this cannot just end here, right? Admittedly, Ink did not expect him to change his mind completely tonight, but... stars, this was a ridiculous amount of notes. No way he would... he would seriously take care of all of them, right? ...Would it not mean that the Creator failed at his job? That he even participated in helping Error with his plans?

Ink laughs heartily. „Aww c'mon, how can you hate any of that cool stuff?!“

Error turns around again. „YouR sTanDarDs musT be PreTty loW.“

„Nah, coolness has nothing to do with standards, silly! I mean, look for example aaat...,“ Ink prolongs while his eyes are quickly scanning the items, in search for something interesting.

However, the glitch crosses his arms with a sour face. „SquId, yOu beTteR noT chAllEngE mY pAtiEncE noW, I'm nOt in tHe moOd For moRe-“

„Ah, look, a neat snow globe!“ he exclaims as he triumphantly holds said object that shows a little city inside, but the actual fascinating part are the gray little clouds floating above the globe, probably created with magic.

„*Actually, this is a soot globe,“ the bird monster, still standing unobtrusively in the background, corrects.

„Really? That's even better!“ Ink cheers and starts to excessively shake the object with both hands, causing the dark powder to be spread everywhere.

„WhAt ThE hElL?!“ Error calls out while recoiling. „wHaT's ThE pOiNt Of A sTuPiD sOuVeNiR tHaT iS dIrTyInG eVeRyThInG?! aNd StoP sHaKiNg tHaT gArBaGe ArOuNd aLrEaDy!“

„Eh, it's at least fun,“ Ink answers, looking at his black hands and giggles. „Well, what else is here~?“

„SqUiD-,“ Error hisses, grinding his teeth, which the other happily keeps ignoring.

„What's that? Some kind of waffle iron?“

„*That's a sootflake tamper. You put some soot into the form, close it, push a button and then, after a couple of seconds, it produces, uh, a flake. Made out of soot.“

„Neat~,“ Ink states and follows all of the steps until he holds a dark, mushy snowflake in his hand, as big as his palm. Funny how squishy it is! You can even knead it like dough- oh, it just melted. Now his hand is all sticky. „Eh, is it supposed to happen?“

„*Uh, it's still work in progress,“ Sootdrake explains.

„Well, that's soot-hing to hear, hehe~,“ he answers joyfully. „And what are those? Wind chimes?“

„*They're actually soot chimes-“

„CaN yOu FiNaLlY qUiT yOuR nOnSeNsE?!“ Error suddenly cries out, more glitches spreading across his body and flickering wildly. Oh, his patience is really wearing thin, huh? „I knoW yOu'Re aWfuLlY aNnoYinG by dEfaUlt, buT wHy cAn'T yOu juSt lEarN wHeN to bEtTer sHuT. uP.“

„Wow, you better chill-“

„LeT mE fInIsH!“ he demands. „So I'vE baSicAllY toLerAteD yoUr inFurIaTinG beHavIoR uP unTiL tHis pOinT, I doN't eVeN knOw wHy i Did, aNd i beGiN to BeliEvE iT wAs a HugE mIsTakE sInCe yOu apPaRenTly can'T stOp wItH- I dOn'T knOw, pRovInG soMe kInD of PoiNt tO me bY shoWinG me tHesE abOmiNatioNs?!“

„Dude, no need to be so uptight. Relax.“

One of his eyes twitches. „I'm PerFecTly reLaXed!“

After a chuckle, Ink starts to explain, „You know, I kinda hoped you'd open up a bit when you encountered some fun inventions.“ He takes one of the soot globes again, looking at it from all different sides with a smile. „And I mean, you had some fun today, right? You even liked a couple of the things here!“

Sighing in annoyance, Error attempts to leave once more. „tHis iS a wAstE of tImE.“

„So I don't understand why your list needs to be that long!“ Ink takes a step forward and although his hopeful voice remains, a slight hint of growing desperation can be heard. „No, actually why it exists at all! Why ruining things others put so much effort and creativity in? Isn't there a way to convince you somehow...?“

Ink blinks, confused as Error suddenly grinds to a halt, remaining silent for a while. „Uh, Error?“ Maybe he has actually gotten him to think about it?

„...hOld oN a MomEnT.“ He slowly turns around again. „You dRagGinG me tO a StuPid caFé waSn'T eVeN yoUr mAin GoAl, waS iT? No, YoU haD anOthEr UlteRiOr mOtiVe.“

„Uuuuh, okay?“ Ink utters. Wow, has the atmosphere shifted?

„YoU acTuaLly wAntEd me tO sEe tHinGs yOuR waY aLl aLonG. YoU wAntEd to gEt me tO liKe tHeSe AbomInaTiOns, dIdn'T yoU?!“

It starts with Error's facial expression gradually brightening up until the first snicker escapes him, slowly developing into a howl of laughter that draws attention of other people nearby. Ink, meanwhile, is still silenty standing there, unsure how to react.

„Wow, wHaT a cUte AttEmpT thAt wAs, 'CreaToR',“ he comments gleefully, his laughing getting quieter again. „It'S a pIty iT diDn'T wOrk, hUh? AnD eVen aFteR I hAd gIvEn yOu a wArnInG, yoU sTilL wEnT wiTh yoUr pLaN. LiKe i sAid...“ His cheerful expression is slowly being replaced by a scowl. „i DoN't LiKe BeInG tOyEd WiTh.“

As Error takes a step forward, Ink reflexively takes a step back, one eyelight becoming a violet exclamation mark.

„Woah, buddy, why always so confrontational?“

„i'M noT yOuR buDdY anD neVeR wAs,“ Error huffs and after summoning strings with one of his hands, he snatches away the globe Ink is holding. „BuT i mUsT saY: i DidN't exPeCt yoU to Be tHat mUch oF a slY fOx, trYinG to mAnipUlatE mE.“

„I just wanted you to see-“ Ink starts, his frustration slowly rising.

But Error interrupts him, growling, „ShUt It.“ He too takes a closer look at the invention, a condescending smirk appearing again. „...And You bEttEr wRiTe doWn whAt i'M aBouT to SaY oN thAt dUmb sCarF of yOurS so yoU'rE noT foRgeTtiNg it AgaiN.“

He holds the globe in front of him.

„YouR oh-sO-beLovEd crEaTiOns liKe tHeSe hAve noT a siNglE goOd rEaSon to eXisT anD thE beSt thInGs thEy cAn dO aRe waStiNg spAcE aNd cAtcHinG duSt. TheReFoRe...“

His grin widens.

„...tHey'rE uSeLeSs.“

He lets go of the globe, the glass breaking into countless pieces as it hits the ground.

While Error carelessly drops some coins onto the table for the broken item, then again attempting to leave for good and Sootdrake is still standing there helplessly, Ink kneels down and blankly stares at the pieces, his face reflecting in the various shards.

…

…

…

Error holds on when he hears a silent snort behind him. „Hey, buddy,“ Ink calls out, causing him to turn around with a growl. He is surprised to see the Creator collecting the pieces of glass. And all the while, he keeps on smiling.

„The things you've just said...“ He stands up, putting them carefully on the table before looking at Error again. „...I'd rather have you taking them back.“

„oH?“ he says in amusement and crosses his arms. „Or whAt elSe?“

„'What else'?“ the other repeats, shrugging innocently. „Oh, my friend, you and me might have a problem, mate.“

„NoW yoU'rE reAllY oUt foR pRovOkiNg mE, aRen'T yOu?!“ Error snarls as his rage is building up again. „i WaS sO kInD to lEt yOu gO tHis tiMe, buT iF yOu keEp gOinG-“

„Me provoking you?“ Ink laughs, a glint of red briefly appearing in one of his eyes. „But, oh well, you know, threats kinda lose their scariness if you keep saying them without doing anything in the end~“

„sO... YoU wAnt thEm To coMe trUe?“ Error questions, wearing now a dangerous grin. „FeElinG pRettY suIciDaL toDaY, aRen'T wE?“

„All of this is not necessary, of course. All I do is nicely asking you to take your words back~“

He snorts. „wHaT, stAnDinG uP foR thOsE abOmiNatiOns?! It iSn'T eVen wOrtH it!“

A little frown appears on Ink's face. „Stop calling them that.“

„Oh, iT's prObabLy abOuT yoU fEeliNg liKe a GreAt pRotEctoR, rIghT?! WeLl, iN thAt cAse, beTtEr keEp oN drEamIng, sHorTy!“

„Stop.“

„BecAusE iN rEalitY, yoU sTilL rEmaIn inSigNificAnt; iT doEsn'T mAtTeR hoW fAncY oR imPorTanT yoU'rE in yOur dReAms!“

Ink clenches his fists.

„aNd leT's bE hOneSt heRe: nO onE woUld eVen rEmemBeR yoU iF yOu jUst vAniSheD rIghT noW!“

As the words sink in, clouding his mind and repeating, repeating, repeating until he feels dizzy, his hand automatically moves to his vials. Ink chooses red.

After taking a couple of gulps, he stomps towards Error, who starts walking back as soon as he gets too close for his comfort. Nonetheless, Ink still manages to grab both ends of his scarf, harshly pulling him down at his eye level.

„Say.“ Although his voice is calm, his crosshair pupils, a pulsating red, tell a different story. „Would you finally shut up if someone were to break your bones?“

Both of them stare into each other's eyes for a while, Error being the one to sweat nervously under the pressure of his glare and closeness. As soon as Ink weakens his grip, the glitch immediately takes his chance and shoves him away. Although the contact makes him hiss, it is followed by a silent sigh of relief. After that, he stares at the angry skeleton in front of him wordlessly at first.

„...yOu won'T leT gO of tHis mAttEr, wIll YoU?“ Error asks, eyeing him carefully. „WelL, nEiTheR wiLl i noW.“

Then he falls silent again, apparently weighing his options until a particular thought crosses his mind, causing him to smirk.

„HoW abOuT wE seTtLe ouR diFfErenCes tHe wAy we dO in OuR dReaMs? ThE 'oLd-fAshIonEd' waY, so to spEaK~“

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Ink's Dreamlog #38

(raw version)

Today's dream was total chaos. So I had gotten used to Glitchy's presence in the multiverse, yes? And it had been really funny at first; battling him, I mean. And just speaking to him while doing that, I guess. And teasing him. And following him after the battle to find out he was stealing chocolate from other places and oh, that he wore glasses when he thought no one was around and that he spoke to himself and that his height was- wait, even I think this entire comment here is getting strange.

However, this whole destroying thing was getting out of hand. While some AUs recovered from the damage, others never did. Cleaning up after him every single time, hearing about 'abominations here, abominations there' every single time and getting the strings out of my clothes that reminded me of the universes I failed every single time is getting on my nerves

Oops. My pencil lead just broke.

So I had gotten used to Glitchy. Totally.

At the very least, he didn't even get near the original universe. Well, yet. I don't even know if I would let him get away with just a broken limb in that case. But the destruction of other worlds continued nonetheless, no matter how much I tried to talk him out of it (with and without Broomie's help). I can't even tell in how many AUs we fought in this one dream alone; it felt like ten or something. Everything's like a red blur now and I have a headache from just thinking about it.

Oh, but there's one thing I can still remember clearly: The moment I drank my red paint and saw the Destroyer's smile fade away before I chased him down across several universes until I took Broomie and beat some reason into his stubborn skull

Oh. My pencil broke in two. Now I forgot how the dream ended. Shoot.

[This is definitely not getting in the novel version.]

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Ink

„*Tra la la. Oh my, the tension in the air is remarkable-“

„qUit yOuR obNoXioUs sIngiNg! YoUr joB is tO TranSpoRt, noT tO be As aNnoYinG aS pOssIblE!“

At first the River Person, their face as always veiled in darkness thanks to their hood, wordlessly turns around to glance at Error, who is sitting at the other end of the boat and is glaring daggers in return. Very soon, the chauffeur looks ahead at the dark water, illuminated by street lamps, again. „*Tra la la. Some skeleton thinks he knows my job description~“

„SiNcE wHeN aRe YoU tHaT sAsSy?!“ Error shouts, his glitches intensifying for a moment.

Ink, on the other hand, is sitting across from him, quietly polishing Penny with his scarf, only occasionally looking up to see an angry Error staring at him suspiciously. In any other situation, he would certainly laugh at that sight, perhaps even consider to capture it in a picture, but the red has long ruled out the yellow. Although from time to time, another color manages to sneak in for a fleeting moment, causing Ink to stop and stare at nothing.

Yes, as if a silent voice of reason is warning him in the back of his mind. But let us be honest: Listening to reason has never been Ink's strength and at this point, it would already be too late. The decision is made. So he regularly keeps drinking a tiny bit of his red paint in order to maintain his passionate flame, but also mixing it with orange since he wants to save more of the former vial for later. The resulting feeling from both of them together is comparable to an exciting kind of adrenaline building up, like on a rollercoaster.

„...lOoK arOunD yOu,“ Error suddenly speaks up, now crossing his arms and glancing to the side.

Ink curiously follows his instruction and sees Hotland's factories going by around him, some of them even working at night and producing thick smoke and distant sounds of running machines. „What about it?“

„ThiS is tHe wOrsT thE oh-So-gLorIouS 'rOmaNtiC eRa' hAs tO ofFeR: UseLesS cRaP mAnuFactUreD in tHoSe AtrOciOuS mOnStroCitiEs.“

„You just have to be cynical about everything, huh?“ Ink huffs, frowning.

„No, i'M siMplY beInG a ReAliSt,“ Error corrects and grins. „AnD thEn thErE aRe moRoNs liKe yOu, bEiNg aTtrActEd By aLl tHe gLittEr aNd sPaRklE tHoSe aBoMinAtiOns EmiT LikE sOmE tOyS bEinG wAveD aRoUnd iN fRonT oF a bRainLeSs cAt. AnD soMetiMeS, yoU'rE tHe eXaCt sAmE pEoPle ComPlaiNinG aBoUt bAd aIr AnD teRriBlE wOrkiNg CoNdiTioNs. HeH, iDioTs, aLl of You.“

„Now hold on! You should've watched yourself how you looked at some of the stuff; you liked the 'glitter and sparkle' too!“ Ink retorts.

„DoEsn'T mEaN i-“

„Besides, you're clearly more of a cat person between both of us!“

„WhA-?!“ Error utters, taken aback. „whY, of AlL poSsiBlE coUntErS tO uSe-?! WaIt, yOu'Re trYinG tO pUt mE oFf, aReN't You, pIpsQueAk?!“

Ink gasps and then pouts. „Well, and you're a grumpy killjoy!“

„yOu'Re An InK-sPoUtInG dUmBaSs!“ Error yells back while pointing at the other.

„Mean philistine!“

„RaInBoW mOrOn!“

„Expired spider donut!“

„WhAt KiNd Of DuMb InSuLt Is ThAt?!“

„At least I stay creative!“

„yOu MeAn DeNsE!“

At last both of them have enough, turning away simultaneously to look at anywhere but at each other.

„*...Tra la la. Two children arguing-“

„I'lL tHrOw YoU oUt Of ThE bOaT!“

***

Arriving at a lonely factory building, far away from all the other working ones, Ink looks around curiously as they set foot in the dull entrance area whose only remaining furnishings are a dusty table and a chair on the side. „How do you know this place?“ he asks.

„oNe oF my pRopErtiEs,“ Error explains and tries to get rid of the table's dust by blowing it off. „it'S moStlY eMptY, sO we cAn bAsiCallY raMpaGe aRouNd wIthOuT anY caRe in thE woRlD as MucH aS wE waNt tO.“

As he proceeds to take off his coat, scarf and hat, a sudden thought crosses Ink's mind and he stares down at the bandolier with his vials. There certainly is a chance of them getting broken in the fight, is there not? Although the vials are pretty robust to prevent it from happening (Ink's clumsiness taken into account), it is still not impossible. It happened a couple of times in the past and now, being a bit rusty when it comes to fighting and having none other than Error as an opponent, the chances seem to be even higher than usual.

Of course misplacing or losing the vials are one very annoying thing that occasionally happens, but the sight of them breaking and the liquid running out right before Ink's eyes... is straight up unpleasant. Besides, Sci potentially scolding him for his carelessness for what feels like the hundredth time is not very funny either.

…

Hesitating, Ink decides to take his bandolier off, feeling suddenly so naked without it, and places it next to Error's items on the table. However, he still grabs the red and black paint and puts them tightly in the nest of his scarf.

„WhaT? Not GoiNg tO taKe oFf YouR sTupId scArF?“ Error remarks mockingly. „WelL, noT mY pRobLeM if yOu TriP miSerAblY~“

When he walks to the next door, Ink follows him with a pouting face.

The hall they enter is empty and quite long, probably 50 meters or even more, the ceiling supported by several pillars. Lights from the moon and the stars are shining through the row of windows, illuminating everything. At some point, Ink remains still and lets his gaze wander although there is nothing expect boring gray concrete to catch the eye.

„It'S quItE niCe heRe, iSn't iT? siLenCe aNd eMptYnesS...“ Error continues walking and suddenly stops about five meters away from the other. He turns around, grinning. „...aS it shOulD bE.“

With Penny in his hands, Ink takes a fighting stance, his eye lights burning with a determined red. Meanwhile, the other pulls on the blue tracks streaming from his eyes.

„GueSs it WaS inEvitABle fOr Us aFteR alL, bUt oh wEll, iT doEsn'T reAllY suRprIse mE thAt mUcH.“ He tilts his head, putting on a pseudo-sympathetic face. „BuT yoU knOw You bAsiCallY lOsE thE momEnT mY sTriNgs geT yOu~?“

Ink snorts and laughs, making the other frown. „Like the last time you strangled me?! And still I got away pretty easily. If that's the best thing you can do, then that's weak sauce~“

Grinding his teeth, Error shoots out his strings. Two quick swings with Penny, spreading splatters of ink from her head all the while, and the oh-so-dangerous threads are parried.

„Said so~“

Bewildered, Error tries to pull on his strings that are now lying before his feet, but the sticky ink has hardened and keeps them glued to the ground. „...hUh,“ he utters before dissolving the threads again. „wOuld'Ve bEen tOo BorInG otHerWisE~"

With a snap of his fingers, a wall of red bones appears in front of Error, about as high as him and one meter wide, rushing towards Ink, who reflexively sidesteps it. However, with every evasive manoeuver, another one and another one pops up until he starts running in circles. But while sprinting, he comes closer and closer to Error and when the distance becomes small enough, Ink gets himself ready for lunging at his opponent.

Error snaps again.

Swoosh.

As soon as Ink hears the sound behind him, his instinct screams at him to quickly dodge, which he does by throwing himself to the side. Glancing back, he spots a laser beam being fired at the spot he stood on just a moment ago, coming from- wow, Error's blaster looks even more impressive in real life! A giant dragonesque skull is floating there, all in black, covered in glitches and the same blue tracks under its eyes. It shoots a beam for a few more seconds until it stops and vanishes.

Wow, there is a hole in the ground now, a bit of smoke rising up. Plus, a part of his scarf has been burned off during his attempt to dodge. And judging by the angle from which the blaster was firing...

„Wow, that could've grilled my legs!“ Ink blurts out.

„WouLdn'T haVe beeN tHaT tRagIc, wOulD it?“ Error remarks with his hands behind his back. „ThaT wAy, YoU at LeAst wOulDn't be AblE to DraG me aLoNg eVerYwhEre liKe tHe aNnoYinG pEsT yoU arE!“

Another wall of bones appears, but this time it is barely below Ink's knee level and their ends are sharp, pointing dangerously at him. So reflexively, he jumps when it comes at him.

Grinning deviously, Error has already revealed another bone behind his back, throwing it at the other. It impales Ink's left shoulder, as he is not fast enough to react this time. Inhaling sharply, he lands with a stumble, forced to hold onto Penny with only one arm.

„Uh, nice hit, I guess,“ he comments while looking down at the bone penetrating his shoulder and the blood staining his clothes already. Damn, he will not be able to swing Penny freely around this way, will he not? In that case, he has to use-

„ComPlimEntS wOn'T saVe YoU noW,“ Error replies and is ready to pull out his next set of strings.

However Ink quickly forms a plan and so he kneels down, using Penny as a support to hide behind. „Wow, that kinda hurts. Maybe, uh, we can slow down for a bit?“

Surprised at first, Error holds on for a moment. „pFfFf. WhaT, tOo muCh fOr yoU alReAdy?“ Meanwhile, Ink secretly takes his red vial. „YoU'rE moRe pAtHeTic thAn I thOuGht~“

The Destroyer raises his hand with the strings, the Creator gulps down every drop left.

When Ink gets wrapped by them, the sudden rush of adrenaline has already overrun him, and so with sheer strength alone, he fights back against the hold of the string, making them tear.

Since Error cannot help but stand there, bewildered by what he has witnessed, his opponent loses no time and dashes towards him despite the thin bleeding traces the threads have left behind, his pain numbed thanks to the paint. Using a great amount of force, the artist swings Penny diagonally at the other, letting a thick trace of ink strike him which catapults Error backwards where he gets stuck to a wall.

Ink has expected him to become unconscious from the recoil, but no, of course Glitchy's stubborn skull is just too hard to crack! Instead, Error's head spins in circles as he slowly gains his focus back, so the other uses this opportunity to charge at him. At last, Error's eyes widen in panic as soon as he fully registers an angry Ink running towards him, but he quickly summons another blaster. As it approaches Ink, it causes him to back off again.

This time, the flying skull does not vanish after one attack, no, it keeps chasing the Ink across the whole room. With every beam that he dodges, another hole gets created somewhere: the ground, the pillars, the windows... However, its aiming ability is horrendous to say the least. Is Error even concentrating at all?

Meanwhile he keeps attacking the blaster with Penny, hoping that it either breaks or gets glued to something by its ink, which is not that easy regarding its large surface. Finally, after what seems like minutes, he pushes the beastly skull one last time against the ceiling, the force of the hit being great enough to make it dissipate, only leaving small glitches behind.

Ink takes a deep breath...

Swoosh.

...which turns into a groan as soon as he hears another blaster forming behind him. Seriously now, how much magic does Error have left?! Ink is not an expert on this type of attack, but come on, letting that giant beast rampage around for that long would have exhausted anyone by now!

Lucky for Ink, blasters tend to have one big weakpoint: Once they lock onto a target, they need to stop firing first before they select another (though they still are able to move around while shooting, but the target remains unchanged). This gives Ink the time that he needs in order to dodge.

Every swing he does is accompanied by an angry scream to let his rage out. At one point when the blaster is low enough, Ink manages to jump on it, and after several aggressive stabs on its forehead, it disappears once more. As he lands on his feet, he suddenly feels a painful sting in his left shoulder again, making him wince.

At this rate, the effect of his red paint will wear off soon...

But putting that aside for a moment: Error must get pretty desperate, huh? Since it seems as though the best way to defend himself is by using blasters that cannot even hit their targets properly. Funny, this kind of tactic reminds him of something... but what exactly? Come on, brain! Cooperate for once!

In the past Ink trained regularly with Blue, who is a blaster user too (not as strong as Error, though). Yeah, that familiar tactic that he always used... letting one of those things run wild... frustrating Ink to no end...

...as a distraction method...

...Oh shoot.

Ink darts his gaze around in search for the dark skeleton, and finally spots him, still glued to the wall. However, Error managed to free one of his arms and is now scrubbing off the ink with a sharp bone of his while cursing under his breath.

And he is almost finished.

Grabbing Penny firmly again, Ink sprints in his direction.

Upon noticing the other Error summons another blaster, but it vanishes after only one beam this time. So he is getting tired after all, huh? Sweating, he instead sends wave after wave of his bone walls towards Ink, which he dodges in a slalom run.

At last, he prepares himself for the next blow.

Error removes the binding ink and sidesteps. Penny hits the wall instead.

...Oops. This... actually was too much force. Her head is now stuck.

It does not take long for Error's state of shock to wear off, so while he tries to pull out his weapon, the other steps back. But Ink cannot let him get away that easily, can he?

Hidden near his neck in his scarf, he takes out a small bag of soot he stole borrowed from the last booth they were at and quickly sprinkles its content on Error's eyes before he could withdraw fully. Neat, it had been just a random idea that popped up in Ink's mind when he saw the soot before they left, but it has actually proved itself useful! Creativity wins once again!

So while Error cries out and stumbles back, Ink gets his needed time to get Penny out of the wall. The former shoots out his strings in anger.

Ink tries to parry them, but... the sudden pain in his shoulder prevents him from lifting his arm. However, the strings only manage to capture Penny.

„CaN yOu ImAgInE hOw MuCh I wIsH rIgHt NoW tHaT i DuSteD yOu WhEn I hAd ThE cHaNcE?!“ Error shouts, enraged as he blinks erratically.

Ink holds Penny as firmly as he can when he pulls his strings, but he knows he will not keep up for much longer with his left arm. Without her, he would be pretty much helpless.

…

The moment he lets go, Error smirks triumphantly. Meanwhile, Ink takes out his black vial and spills the liquid on the floor. Throwing Penny to the side, Error does not get another chance to use his strings since the other has already immersed into the dark puddle and moves towards him.

Bewildered at first, Error starts to throw bones at that blot, but keeps missing every time. Although he tries to back off, it eventually reaches him, Ink emerging again...

...who grabs the glitch by both of his wrists and wrestles him down.

As expected, his eyes are pretty much instantly flooded with error signs as he squirms in his hold to escape the touch, panicking. Ink can only hope that the other crashes very soon since he can still gather enough sense to-

Swoosh.

-summon another attack. Huffing, Ink jumps back to avoid the laser beam coming from the right.

After the floating skull vanishes, he is about to lunge at the other again when suddenly, a tent of red bones appears around Error, keeping him protected. Seriously now, does he have to make everything more annoying?!

Obtaining Penny again, Ink rushes back in the hope to break this barrier by force, however, his now shaky arms do not allow him to lift her properly. Groaning in frustration, he kicks the bones several times before he starts to angrily walk up and down to let out the rest of his excessive energy. All the while, he keeps glaring daggers at the pile of bones Error is hiding behind, the buzzing sound of glitches filling his ears; he is probably rebooting, huh?

Only when Ink begins to feel dizzy, he decides to take a break and plants himself on the ground, sitting cross-legged, one of his elbows resting on his knee and his hand being cupped in his chin. Frowning and eyes still a glowing red, he keeps listening to the glitching Error, who may plan another attack. Unless he has given up by now... but nah, certainly not someone like him!

Wait, Ink has forgotten something, has he not?

…

As pain shoots through his left shoulder again, he remembers: There is still a foreign bone sticking out. Oops. Without much thinking, Ink pulls it out in a swift motion, briefly crying out before gritting his teeth and hissing while the blood is staining more of his sleeve. Next he uses his scarf as a bandage, wrapping it firmly around his wound and... there! Damage as good as undone!

Glancing at the bone barrier again, his frustration from before boils up once more and so Ink starts pondering what to do when Error finally shows himself, and if the Creator wins...

...then what, exactly? What will happen then?

If it were his dream world, then fighting off the other would mean protecting the alternative universe, right? Well, until he recovers and attacks again, at least. But in reality... it is not like Ink can just trash him over and over again to stop Error from 'destroying' inventions. Even winning this battle will do nothing in the longer run, will it not?

So... what is the point of all of this again? How have both of them even gotten into this situation in the first place?

…

Ah, the red keeps vanishing...

Suddenly, the glitch sounds get so quiet they become nearly inaudible. Ink carefully stands up, always keeping an eye on the bones. Nothing is moving yet...

…

Carrying Penny with his right arm, he takes a cautious step forward...

...when before his eyes, a wall of red bones appears, no chance to dodge this time. It rushes towards Ink, pushing him away for a couple of meters until it vanishes again and making him land on his back. In the meantime, he loses his grasp on Penny.

„'wEaK sAuCe', HuH?“ Error grumbles, already stomping towards Ink, who can do nothing but back off. „ThEn whY doN't yoU tRy EsCapIng noW~?“

Strings wrap around him.

...He is screwed, is he not?

Ink yelps when Error pulls on them, causing his face to hit the ground before getting dragged to... somewhere. „Uh, can I ask you what you're going to do?“

„CaN't yOu juSt sHut yoUr sTupId mOuTh foR onCe?!“ he shouts and pulls a bit harder, making the other wince.

After reaching his destination, Error skillfully conducts his strings so both ends wind around two pillars, Ink being held in the middle spot. At last he separates his magic from his fingers and uses the break to stretch his hands, which results in a cracking noise of his bones.

„I caN't rEmeMbeR anYonE stResSinG me Out tO thAt dEgrEe beForE aNd i'Ve neVeR waNteD tO eVeN thInK yOu'D be The onE cAusInG thE moSt tRoUblE in a BatTle-“

„Aren't we pretty much equal in the dreams-?“

„ShuT iT. LosErS doN't geT tHe rIgHt To spEaK,“ Error interrupts, narrowing his eyes.

„Huh, didn't know of that rule,“ Ink answers, shrugging as best as he can with both of his arms being stretched out and bound by the strings.

Error growls. „YoU knoW, yOur nOncHalAnt aTtiTudE sOmeTimEs ProbAbLy pIsSes me Off tHe MosT aBoUt yOu, evEn taKinG yOur aNnoYinG lAuGh oR yoUr IrriTatInG eYeS inTo aCcoUnt!“

„Why my ey-“

„BuT tHat AsiDe,“ he cuts in again and his grimace turns into a victorious smirk while he proudly crosses his arms. „I reAllY wIpeD thE fLoOr wiTh YoU, qUitE liTerAllY aCtuAllY, heH~“

„Yeah, I get that, heh. Funny and all,“ Ink comments, squirming a bit in the tight grasp of the strings.

„DesPitE yOur diSgusTinG iNk cAtchIng mE oFf gUaRd fiRsT, iT seEmS aS yOu diDn'T hAvE a ChanCe tO beGiN wItH~“

„You know, it's kinda getting uncomfy here-“

„AnD YoU PrObaBly tHouGht yOu weRe sO sMaRt whEn yoU thReW thE sOoT inTo mY eyEs, bUt heH, aLl fOr noThiNg iN thE enD!“ Oh Æther, he is going to bask in his victory thoroughly, is he not? „aNd nOw, yoU'rE aT my MerCy OncE aGaiN~“

„...And what are you going to do with me next if I may ask finally?“ Ink inquires, tilting his head in curiosity.

„WhaT i Am gOiNg tO do wItH yoU?!“ Error repeats, laughing in amusement until he abruptly stops, frowning now. „...whAt aM i goInG to Do WitH yOu?“

Silence settles in between the two in which Error keeps pondering with a concentrated look on his face while Ink, waiting for an answer, glances around, watching the ceiling's cracks where small piles of dust are raining down.

„The situation is getting more awkward the longer you hesitate, you know?“

„I'm Not heSiTatiNg!“ Error objects strictly. „BeliEve mE, alThoUgh i'M moRe thAn in thE moOd foR enDiNg yoUr pAthEtic eXistEncE rIghT heRe-!“ He stops and groans in annoyance. „...i cAn't jUst kiLl oFf oUtcOdeS whEn thE mYstEry iS stiLl uNsoLveD, so... i GuEsS i HavE to leT yOu oFf thE hOoK thIs TimE.“ He pauses. „...rElucTantlY, mInd You.“

„Neat, 'cause I barely remember what got me so angry in the first place!“ Ink replies and laughs. Well, it is more about his red paint being almost entirely consumed and exhausted for the sake of his adrenaline rush. Once it is over, there is not much left to care about anything anymore, right? It has always been this way.

„MorOn,“ Glitchy huffs and is about to snap his fingers again, presumably to dissolve the strings...

„...Error? I'm still waiting.“

...but he does not do that. Instead, his eyes widen as if a sudden thought has entered his mind. Slowly lowering his hand again, a mischievous grin spreads across his face. That... is not a good sign, huh? „YoU knoW whAt? I juSt rEmeMbeRed a liTtlE thIng fRom bEforE.“

„...About what?“ the other questions, confused.

„DiDn't yOu brEaK thE fiRst rUlE pRevIouSly?“

„Uh, remind me of the rule again?“

After another groan, he explains, „aSkinG stUpiD tHinGs, pRivAte qUesTioNs aLso. BuT...“ Error's smirk rises. „...aT tHe eNd oF ouR cOnveNtiOn tOuR, yoU kePt pUshInG me fOr an anSweR reGarDinG mY moTivEs, dIdn'T yoU?!“

„Pretty sure you're exaggerating here a bit-“

„ArE yoU EveN caPablE of dEnyiNg iT? YoU biRd brAin cAn'T eVen RemeMbeR tHe laSt sEnteNce yOu sPokE, dO yoU?!“

„I mean, you're right, but-“

„TheN i'M afRaiD yOuR oPiniOn heRe doEsn'T cOunT!“ Error snaps back. „BuT yoU knoW whAt bReaKinG thE ruLes meAnS? It mEanS bReaKing oUr tRucE~“

Ink pouts, the little remain of the red paint in him showing itself again. „Come on, I asked you stuff before and you didn't see it as 'breaking the rule'!“

„WelL, beCauSe I , thE peRsOn beInG aSkeD, gEt tO deCiDe iF thAt coUntS aS an aWfuLly sTupId qUesTioN or nOt.“

„You're being nitpicky,“ he huffs.

„How dId yOu thInK thE rUle woUlD wOrK, huH?! AnD yoU wEre ActuAllY rIghT bEfoRe: aFteR tHreAts, cOnSequEnceS muSt fOlloW, bUt thE sAme goEs foR rUleS, aM i rIghT?“ Error laughs and turns around. „...ThAt meAnS, ouR cOllAboRatiOn iS oVer. “

As the strings vanish, Ink keeps looking at the other skeleton with a dumbfounded expression. „W-Wait, this is a joke, right?“

„nO.“ Error attempts to leave, but the Ink runs after him.

„Come on, Glitchy, you can't be serious!“ He laughs. „Can't you just let it slide? Why even see this little thing as a big problem?“

When Error holds on all of a sudden, so does the other. „NorMallY a bRokEn cOntrAct mEaNs a BrokEn dEaL, buT of cOurSe thEre aRe meThoDs to cOmpeNsAte fOr yoUr miStaKe.“

„Oh, what did you think of?“

„HoW abOut... i bReaK onE oF tHe ruLeS aNd geT aWaY wiTh it uNscAtheD tOo? ThaT waY, we wOulD be EvEn.“

Huh, odd. Which rule would Error want to break? Ask a private question, perhaps? Wait, what were the other rules again? Yeah, something with not telling anyone about this, but this would not make sense in his case. Then Ink takes a look at the notes on his scarf wrapped around his shoulder; although some of them are burned off, he wrote the rules on several different places just to make sure he would not accidentily miss them. Ah, there they are!

Wait, there was a fifth one?

…

...Oh, right. There technically is a fifth one, one that Ink himself established: Error not trying to look at his soul.

…

He is going for the fifth one, is he not? Ink gulps.

„mY pATienCe is nOt eNdlEsS aS yOu alReaDy kNow, sQuiD,“ Error speaks up, causing him to flinch a bit. „Yes Or nO?“

„I... just don't understand why you overcomplicate everything this way.“

Error snorts. „'OveRcomPlicAte'? FoR yoU, mAybE.“

„I mean, you're just as curious as I am, so why even, uh, you know? Be so insistent on the rules?“

„YeS, i Am cuRioUs, bUt dO yoU knoW tHe biGgeSt diFfeRencE beTweEn uS reGarDinG thIs wHolE mAttEr?“ he responds and swiftly turns around again. „AltHouGh I'm cUriOus, i Am nOt iN nEed oF aNy of tHiS.“

„What do you mean...?“

„ThaT yoU arE tHe oNe neEdiNg OuR coNneCtiOn moRe tHan aNytHinG eLsE!“ Error states with a smug grin. „ThiNk aBouT it: WhaT eVen wAs YouR liFe beForE yOu mEt me?! BeiNg tHe oWneR of aN oRdinAry sTatiOneRy sHoP anD thE oNly kInD of exCiteMent pRobabLy coMinG fRoM yoUr dReaMs yoU'rE so ProUd of!

But I diDn'T oNly pResEnt yOu a cHanCe of theM hAvinG moRe mEanIng, i aLso sHowEd yoU tHe anOmaLieS in tHe sCriPt; sAy, wEren'T yOu eXcitEd? BeinG iNvolvEd in tHe mAtTerS of The wOrlD iTselF?  YoU neEd me mOre tHan I nEed yOu. WhaT woUld yOu eVen Be wIthOut mE?! NoThInG! “

Ink stays silent.

„...nO obJecTioNs? ThoUghT sO.“ Error continues to walk off again. „TheN haVe fUn wItH yoUr bOriNg liFe.“

„W-Wait!“ Ink cries after him, making the other stop in his tracks. After more seconds of hesitation, he eventually gives in, letting his arms hang loose in defeat. „Okay. Just... let's get it over with.“

In an enthusiastic matter, Error pulls out his strings, grinning like a maniac. „GrEaT. TheN juSt stAy stiLl fOr a MomEnT if You Don'T waNt thIs tO huRt~“

Looking away in shame, Ink clenches his fists. And as the strings come after him...

...nothing happens. Lifelessly, they drop on the floor before they can reach him.

„...wHaT,“ Error utters, deadpan. He tries again and then again, but the result remains the same. He growls in frustration. „As iF my MaGic is ToO exHauSteD to pUll oUt a SinGle sOul!“

When the next try fails again, Error screeches to the ceiling.

„...Can we leave now?“ Ink asks with an expressionless face.

„No! We'Re noT gOinG aNywHerE unTiL i FinD oUt wHat's WroNg wiTh yOur soUl!“ Error retorts loudly and begins pacing back and forth, which gets a sigh out of the other. After a couple of moments have passed, he apparently gets impatient and demands, „OkaY, yOu knoW whAt's Up, dOn'T yOu? SpiT it Out!“

„We agreed on only one rule, didn't we? I don't have to answer anything.“

„Well, YoU woUlD'vE jUsT lieD oR aVoiDeD tHe QuEsTiOn if I hAd piCked tHe othEr rUle!“ Error counters, earning a shrug from him.

While he proceeds to pace back and forth, Ink gazes around once more. Have the cracks on the ceiling always been that big? „Uh, Error, maybe we should go-“

„ForgEt iT.“

„Now you're acting like a child.“ Wow, Ink has never thought he would say those words to anyone.

Squinting his eyes at the other, Error shoots out his strings. Again, a fail. „...i hAte You dEeplY.“

„Uh, love you too, I guess?“ he replies and chuckles as the nervousness slowly fades away. „Sooo... it's late, I'm kinda bleeding and I need to drink my vials again, so how about we call it a night, hm?“

„...yOuR suPpoSed 'mEdiCine', huh?“ Suddenly, Error's eyes widen. „No, wAiT a SecOnD.“

„What is it?“

„...aLl oF thIs mAkeS sEnsE iF...,“ he mumbles and shaking his head, he adds, „...nO, tHis sHoulDn'T eVen bE pOsSiblE.“

„Care to explain?“

„...i diDn'T thInK aBouT it mUcH aT fiRsT, buT tHeSe mOoD sWinGs of yOuRs... tHeY hAppEn eVerY tiMe aFteR yOu dRinK yOuR 'mEdiCinE'.“

„Uh, and? Where's the connection there?“ Ink questions with a seemingly clueless smile.

„nOt sO loNg aGo, I woUld'Ve mAybE sAiD thEy CouLd bE jUsT a siDe eFfeCt oR yoU bEinG wEiRd aS alWayS, buT thE moOd cHanGeS aRe toO cOnsIsTent. So cOulD thEy bE tHe DeSireD eFfeCt?“

„I... don't understand where you're going with this-“

Error groans. „eMotIonS cOme FroM thE sOul, dOn'T tHeY?!“

Ink's smile slowly vanishes.

„...sO tHiS caN be tHe oNly pOsSiblE exPlanAtioN,“ he continues although he himself seems doubtful. „ThE viAls fOr thE emOtioNs, yoUr eMptY sOul StaT aNd aT lAsT...“ He throws his threads one more time. „...The StriNgs fAiliNg.“

…

…

…

Ink chuckles. Seeing Error sweat as he is probably processing his own conclusion right now, he begins to understand that there may be no point in keeping this a secret anymore.

„What is it, Glitchy?“ And with a louder laugh filled with bitterness as light shines from behind the Creator, a shadow casting over his face, the words are spoken: „...Trying to search for something that isn't even there?“

Under different circumstances, Ink would find Error's disturbed expression, looking as if he was seeing a ghost, pretty amusing (and it still is, do not get him wrong), but for some reason, he does not have enough strength for another laugh.

„HoW...,“ Error finally utters, still taken aback by the reveal, „...hOw arE yOu eVen aLivE aT thIs PoiNt?!“

Ink shrugs. „The universe has its creative ways, I guess.“

„No, JuSt StOp BeInG a MoRoN fOr OnCe AnD aNsWeR mY qUeStIoN!“ he demands louder this time, startling the other a bit. „You ShoUld bE duSt by NoW, afTer AlL!“

„...And yet, here I am. Look, we can basically stand here all day and discuss this topic with no end in sight because I don't know either how it works,“ Ink explains calmly. „Yes, you've figured out I'm soulless. Aren't you satisfied enough by this?“

Upon hearing that, there is no answer Error can come up with immediately, so he stays silent, averting his gaze and furrowing his brow.

„...Are you still creeped out or what?“ Of course this kind of reaction is always to be expected; no one meets a soulless creature every day, after all. But still...

„I-i'm NoT cReEpeD ouT!“ the skeleton denies vehemently. That too is easy to predict. Funny. However, Ink has not expected Error's smirk to return so soon. „nO, wHen i ThiNk abOuT it... tHis iS aCtuAlLy qUitE hiLarIouS.“

When he tilts his head in confusion, Error's grin only grows. „BecAusE yoU'rE eVen mOre oF a sIcK fReAk tHan I oRigiNallY tHougHt yOu wEre!“ As his glitching laugh echoes through the hall, the only thing Ink can do is stare. „WhaTevEr tHe reAsOn fOr yoU bEinG aLiVe mAy bE; yOu eXisTinG is CerTainLy bY soMe kInD of bIg mIstAkE, iS it nOt?!“

No answer.

„iF 'AbOminAtioN #1' wAsN't aLreAdy TakEn... wEll, I'd GlaDly gIvE thIs TitLe tO yOu. Heh,“

As he attempts to walk away, Ink asks, „Where are you going?“

„HomE. Or rEallY aNy pLacE whErE yOu'Re noT,“ he answers and then adds with a gloating expression, „But DoeS a SoUllEsS bAsTarD liKe yOu cAre AbOut aNytHinG iN thE fiRsT pLaCe? TeLl mE.“

…

...Ink should be angry now, right? He should. But there is no more red left.

...Oh, and sad too. Right now it feels like every emotion is lacking to a degree, but with his blue vial, he would be able to cry his worries out. But sadness too will vanish just as quickly. A finite resource.

Yes, he can show that he cares! After all, Ink is capable of feeling emotions too! He can at least pretend.

… Even though they are fake anyway.

Forgetting his train of thought as soon as Ink notices Error walk away again, he quickly catches up with him, now following him silently. The only kind of response he receives is when the glitch turns around and groans in annoyance. If both of them had not to leave through the exact same door, then Error would possibly react angrier than just now (or maybe he is tired too. Who knows).

However, they have not even bridged half of the distance when they suddenly hear a loud noise behind them, making them turn around.

One of the pillars just collapsed.

„Uh, you know, the factory hall is kinda a mess now,“ Ink comments as he looks around again.

„WeLl, aNd wHo's FauLt iS tHaT?“ Error replies with a snarky tone.

„Not mine because I don't use blasters?“

„But YoU woUld'Ve iMpAleD me wItH yoUr sTuPid PeN if I didN'T uSe tHeM, WouLd'Nt yOu?!“

„Wow, you're really unforgiving, you know that? Maybe stop living in the past and then you wouldn't be that stressed out all the time-“

„It HaPpenEd liTerAllY tEn. MiNutEs. AgO.“

„Oh, really? Felt like 15 for me.“

Growling angrily at the other, Error then yells, „SeE?! ThaT's wHat I meAnt bY 'nOnchAlanT aTtiTudE'-“

The sudden cracking noise above followed by the first pieces of the ceiling falling down let Error become quiet again.

„That's uh, probably not good.“

„You Don'T sAy.“

Both start running while more of the ceiling is breaking apart, the pieces now becoming big boulders. They continue their desperate escape until-

***

Frisk

For what feels like the hundredth time this night alone, Frisk sighs as they look up to the sky, not paying much attention to the inventors around them who are already removing their machines for today. From the left a familiar face with bright pink cheeks comes into sight, and so they return their curious look.

„*You're still worrying, aren't you?“ Chara inquires, as always hovering above the ground in a sitting position with legs and arms crossed (being a ghost surely seems comfy sometimes). „*You could've followed them yourself, you know.“

„*I doubt I would make it far,“ Frisk objects, wearing an insecure smile.

„*And that's what I am here for, after all. I would take over whenever you get too tired.“

„*But we share the same unathletic body, silly,“ they respond with a giggle.

„*And? The spirit is what counts.“ Pouting, Chara pretends to hit Frisk's shoulder with their fist, but of course their transparent body is not able to touch anything. „*There's nothing impossible if it's the both of us. And Azzy can be sometimes useful too, I guess.“

„*That's... nice of you to say. But in this form... I'm not always sure myself,“ they whisper. „*But I actually wanted to look after Sans anyway-“

„*ya called?“

Suddenly, a glass of milk is being held in front of Frisk, who gladly accepts it.

„*You're getting bad stomach pains if you keep drinking this stuff,“ Chara comments and glares at the skeleton who of course is unaware of them.

„*so... 's everything fine? the hustle here not stressing ya?“

„*It's okay... Chara takes my place when it gets too much,“ Frisk explains and sips on the milk. Seeing a good opportunity, their ghost friend possesses their body for a short moment, smirking proudly at Sans. „*Like a good partner would~“

He only rolls his eyes. „*yeah, yeah, i've got that already. ya want some cookies as a reward or what?“

„*That's the only way your lame milk is enjoyable, after all~“

„*welp, this 'lame milk' isn't even for meant for you,“ Sans answers, his smile just as fake as the other's. „*so if ya don't mind...?“

Huffing, Chara leaves their body again, then smooths out the wrinkles in their white sailor shirt before tugging on the green ribbon in their hair to calm themselves down. „*The fun always ends with his stupid milk, huh?“

„*Please don't be offended,“ Frisk requests after regaining their balance from the sudden body change (at least they have gotten used to it over the years).

„*who? me or the brat?“

„*Both.“

„*Oh, Frisky, I can never be offended by a clown like him~“

„*...i feel like they insulted me just now.“

„*Let's just... change the topic, okay?“ Frisk suggests with a tired sigh.

„*heh, whatever ya say, boss,“ Sans agrees, shrugging as he drinks his milk too.

Silent moments between them pass in which Frisk cannot help but wonder (or rather worry) about several things. As their thoughts wander towards their skeleton friend, they finally speak up, „*So you didn't tell Ink about your dreams.“

„*mhm,“ Sans states. „*y'know how much of a chatterbox he is; can't have the risk of him accidentally telling paps 'bout them just yet.“

„*Mmh, I see,“ Frisk responds while watching Chara floating by, cross-legged and yawning. „*But... why keep it a secret from Papy?“

„*nah, there's no need for him to worry 'bout some silly dreams i have,“ he explains, turning around to see his brother clean the machine from all the stains of sauce while humming a happy tune.

„*They can't be just 'silly' if they still keep you constantly awake...“

„*how else am i supposed to call 'em? listen kiddo, from now on, i try to not think about them that much... or think about the possibility of them being real like ink said. this way i think they'll go away quicker.“

„*He's just running away from his problems, isn't he?“ Chara murmurs, earning a firm look from Frisk. „*What? I'm just sharing my thoughts here!“

„*eh, but that aside: it's kinda late now, so time for ya to go to bed, hm?“

„*I'm still waiting for Gearey.“

„*he's not here?“ Sans asks and looks at the spot on the table where the flower previously was.

„*I asked him if he could watch Ink for me.“

„*really? he?“

„*Spying on others is the best thing the idiot can do, after all~,“ Chara explains (is it mockery or pride in their voice?).

„*ah, so... i guess you're worrying 'bout ink and his 'plan'?“

„*Yes... a bit,“ Frisk confesses with a tiny nod. „*I actually wanted both of them to get along, but now I think... I might have been too naive.“

„*eh, and whaddaya think is the worst case scenario that could happen? both strangling each other or what?“ Sans questions and chuckles, but he slowly stops as soon as he sees the kid's uneasy expression. „*...that was a joke, y'know?“

„*I'm afraid this is actually... not that unlikely.“

„*...wait, ya serious now?“ he questions, furrowing his brow. „*eh, i mean, i don't know 'bout the destroyer, but ink? i think i've never seen him in some kind of argument or anything. he doesn't seem the type for that stuff. although...“ A pause. „*...it's actually hard to tell what's going on in his head, to be honest. heh, probably everything and nothing at once.“

Before Frisk can answer, a small glow appears on the ground in front of their feet all of a sudden, gaining everyone's attention. After a couple of seconds, Flowey pops up from the spot. „*God, I'm ne-ne-ne-ne-ne-never doing any of this again!“ he stutters strangely.

Gasping, Frisk kneels down to inspect their flower friend. „*Oh my god, what happened to you?“

„*Wow, he really does not look... that healthy,“ Chara remarks, surprised as well when they see one of his petals broken off, three of them twisted in weird directions and his gear head does not even rotate correctly because it is stuck.

„*'What happened,' you-you-you-you ask?“ Flowey repeats, his anger still as vivid as ever despite all the defects. „*A stupid pillar fell-fell onto me! All because these moronic psy-psy-psy-psychopaths busted an entire factory hall!“

„*Wait, what factory hall? What are you talking about? Where are Ink and Error right now?“

„*I followed them to Hotland-land-land-land-land-“

„*...Gearey?“ Frisk carefully asks, but Flowey will not stop repeating himself.

„*eh, kiddo, the weed's pretty damaged and i guess he used his last magic resources to get back to us, so-“

Suddenly, Flowey freezes and is being caught by Frisk as he livelessly bends forward.

„*-he's having a short circuit.“

„*What an idiot,“ Chara whispers in anger and rolls their eyes, but their gesture, caressing one of his petals, remains gentle. „*He should have come back earlier. That's what he gets for his mistake. He's going to hear from me once he's functioning again...“

Meanwhile Sans rubs his neck nervously as he stares down at the unconscious flower. „*okay, so what kind of trouble did ink get himself in this time?“

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Ink

An awful headache is the first thing Ink feels once his consciousness returns. Grumbling while rubbing the painful spot on his skull, he tries to slowly get up again. Why in the world is it so dark in here all of a sudden? Before he can think about it any further, the pain in his head grows bigger as he accidentally hits... the ceiling? Yes, after fumbling around for a bit, he can indeed confirm that there is concrete above him that prevents him from standing up. Curious. Luckily enough, Ink's confusion does not last for long as a ray of light shines through a small hole between some boulders to his right, revealing the 'chamber' he is currently in: He is surrounded by gray rubble that is being held in place by several red bones and despite some cracks running through them, they seem to be stable enough to support the weight at least.

Suddenly, Ink gets to hear a very familiar grumble from the same direction and is surprised to see Error lying there with his face on the ground. He has probably spent the rest of his magic to create these bones and is therefore unconscious now. Or he did get hit on his head too. Or both. Naturally, Ink's first response is to poke Error's skull a couple of times, hoping to wake him up, but the only kind of reaction he receives is just weird glitching. Sighing, he gets himself comfortable by leaning back against the wall of rocks behind him and folding his hands. Now this will get boring pretty fast if nothing happens in the next minutes.

There is no other possibility for Ink than to keep waiting and waiting. Sometimes the ray of light gets weaker; probably the fault of the clouds for covering the night sky for a brief moment. But whenever it becomes completely dark and he cannot see a single thing anymore despite his eyes being wide open... a nervous shiver runs down Ink's spine.

A displeased groan and the sound of shuffling manage to distract him from his thoughts and filled with anticipation, he watches Error finally getting up too.

„Slept well?“ Ink asks, only receiving an angry growl as an answer. „Oh yeah, you should probably watch out-“ When Error hits his head, the other snorts. „-for the ceiling, I wanted so say.“

„WhaT thE hEcK-?“ he mumbles drowsily but after looking around him, his gaze falls upon Ink waving at him and he quickly comes to understand this situation. „Oh, hElL nO.“

„Sooo, we're kinda stuck here together, hm?“

„nO, I'm Not GoiNg tO aCcePt tHat,“ Error protests and begins pushing himself against the wall of rubble.

„What are you doing?“

„TrYing tO geT ouT, sMarT bRaiN.“

„Huh, I think you need some muscle mass for that, pal.“

„Oh, ShuT uP,“ he snarls and gives up when exhaustion catches up on him. Breathing heavily, he hammers against the wall and shouts, „i CaN't BeLiEvE tHiS cRaP!“

„Nice to see you're energetic enough to yell like that,“ Ink comments, giggling.

„...i ThinK yoU diDn'T geT thE wEigHt oF thiS sItuAtiOn yEt,“ Error hisses through his teeth. „We'rE sTucK. In An iSolAteD plAcE.“

„Well, I can see it's not that good-“

„'nOt tHaT gOoD'?!“ he repeats in disbelief. What wrong thing did Ink say again to make him that angry? Geez. „It'S aN aBsoLutE nIgHtmAre! ThE onlY thInG i WaS aSkiNg fOr waS a BreAk frOm yoU, buT noW I'm stUcK wiTh pOsSibLy tHe moSt inSuFfeRabLe pErSon oN thIs pLanEt!“

„Who?“ Ink asks, but the quick realization makes him snort. „Oh, you mean me!“

„YeS, yoU,“ Error confirms and sighing heavily, leans back in the same manner as the other. „GoD, eVen #13 wOulD bE a beTtEr cHoiCe rIghT noW.“

„Who's that?“

„DoEsn'T maTteR.“

Since Error seems way too grumpy to continue this conversation on his own, Ink of course takes over. „Do you have your mettaphon with you? Maybe we can call someone?“

„In My cOaT,“ he mumbles, still sounding as if he might lose his temper any moment. „bUt iT pOsSibLy wOulDn'T wOrk aNywaY; wiTh uS beInG qUitE fAr oUt aNd aLsO tRaPpeD bEtwEen rUbBle, iT wOulD be A mIrAcLe iF wE goT aNy rEcePtiOn.“ When he looks at the small hole next to him, he asks, „CaN't yOu bEcoMe a DumB bLot aGaIn anD fIt tHroUgH tHeRe?“

„Well, depends whether you have some kind of liquid for me.“

„I sAw yOu maGicAllY pRodUciNg sOme InK beFoRe, sO whAt'S thE pRobLeM noW?“

„Can't do without Penny,“ he explains and then gasps in shock. „Oh stars, I completely forgot about her! What if she is buried under concrete too?! How am I supposed to find her?!“

„YoUr StUpId PeN iS oUr SmAlLeSt PrObLeM rIgHt NoW!“ Error cries out angrily. „i Can'T bEliEve YoU're aCtuAllY thAt uSeleSs!“ Ouch. „HoW mucH liQuiD dO yoU nEed FoR thAt tRiCk?“

„Well, first off I want to say that I probably wouldn't have enough energy for that anyways; I'm tired too, you know. And secondly, the amount is always about one full vial of my... paint...“ With wide eyes, Ink scans his chest, actually expecting his bandolier to be there as always, but he finds nothing. What? Where in the world? Why are his paints not with him?! Oh no, he remembers again: He left them in the entrance area so they would not break during the fight...

„Uuuh, Error?“

„wHaT?“ the dark skeleton shoots back in deep annoyance.

„How long... are we actually staying here?“

„...eXaCtly One HoUr aNd 47 MinUtEs.“

„Oh, really?“

„No, yOu mOrOn! TeLl mE hOw i Am sUpPosEd tO kNow iT?!“

...When was the last time Ink drank one of his paints, excluding the red one? He cannot remember. He cannot remember. He. Cannot. Remember. When will the others stop to have an effect? If it happens... if he loses all the colors... then Error will be there to witness it. As the urge to vomit overcomes him, Ink instinctively covers his mouth.

„WhAt's YoUr pRoBleM alL of A sUdDen?!“ Error screeches and presses himself further against the corner. „I sWeAr, iF yoU'rE gOinG tO puKe In hEre, i'Ll fOrgEt aBoUt aLl oF my PriNciPlEs aNd aNniHilAtE yOu sIngLe-HaNdedLy!“

After a hard battle, Ink manages to repress his urge and gulp it down instead, getting a sigh of relief out of the other. No, he cannot allow himself to vomit right now because it means he would lose some bits of his paints too. He wants to keep them as long as possible...

„...AlthOuGh yOu coUld'vE uSed YouR vOmiT aS a LiqUid, aS disGusTinG as iT sOundS.“

„I already said that I'm too tired. I would very likely pass out trying it.“

„By thE wAy, wHaT wiLl eVeN haPpeN iF yOu dOn't drInK yOur pAinTs?“

…

„WeLl, I'm GoiNg tO fiNd iT ouT aNywAy, I suPpoSe.“ Suddenly, as realization kicks in once again, Error starts to glitch harder, overtaken by his stress. „Oh gOd, i WilL aCtuAlLy rOt iN heRe wItH yoU, wOn'T i?“

Ink gulps.

***

„Hey, Error.“

Said glitch, sitting with crossed arms and staring sternly at the wall in front of him, stays silent.

„Errooooor.“

He grits his teeth, but remains stubborn.

„I'm super bored. How long are you going to be mad at me?“ Ink whines while watching the tips of his shoes clash against each other over and over again.

„I'm nOt heRe fOr yOuR eNteRtAinMent,“ Error snaps, shooting a disgusted glare at the other. „WoUld You MiNd aNd mOvE oveR thErE?! I nEed My PerSonAl sPaCe hEre.“

„Uh, 'kay,“ he simply complies, moving a bit more to the left.

„MoRe.“

Ink does it again.

„...morE.“

And again.

„GoD dAmN iT, mOvE eNtiReLy To ThE sTuPiD cOrNeR!“

„Geez, okay, 'Personal Space Man', gotcha already,“ Ink replies, laughing as their distance becomes as far away as possible. „Are you now willing to talk?“

„nO.“

„Aww, c'mon-“

„I'm nOt in tHe mOod, SquiD,“ Error insists firmly. „JuSt dO me a FavOr aNd sTaY qUiEt sO mY hEaDacHe dOesN't gEt wOrsE.“

„But-“

„SaY, dO yoU acTuaLly WanT mE tO pUncH yoU?“

„That would require you to touch me, right?“

„...ForGeT whAt i SaiD,“ Glitchy mumbles almost non-audibly, making Ink chuckle a bit.

Without saying anything more, he instead proceeds to watch the grumpy skeleton from the side, counting his glitches until he forgets the number and starts over again, which seems to be the only other option that does not result in complete boredom (...and keeps him distracted enough from other unpleasant thoughts that sometimes dare to creep into his mind). After a couple of minutes or so, Error suddenly groans, apparently frustrated again. „I'm sTiLl BlaMinG yOu fOr alL of tHis.“

„Uh, why?“

„BeCauSe yOu dOn't kNoW wHen tO juSt stOp. WhY diD yoU cOme uP wItH sUch a StuPiD plAn iN tHe fiRsT pLaCe?! NoT eVen i aCtiVeLy tRieD to cHanGe yOuR mInD, dId i?! I waS jUsT iNteResTed iN tHe dReAmS aNd nOthIng moRe.“

After a silent pause, Ink quietly responds, „...You were doing something I thought was wrong, so I was trying to change it.“

„WeLl, I diDn'T asK foR iT, huH?“

„Yeah, I got that already.“ Rubbing his wounded shoulder, a small hopeful smile grows on Ink's face. „But you know, you can at least admit that you had fun today before, uh, things escalated a bit.“

„...wHy ShoUld i?“

„As a compromise?“ Ink says and when being treated with silence as a response, murmurs, „Uh, please?“

„...WiLl yOu sHut uP aBouT iT iF i AgrEe wiTh tHaT?“

„Sure.“

Very reluctantly, Error finally utters, „ThEn... i GueSs I hAd soMe... fUn... tO a cErtAin dEgrEe?“

Ink's eyelights immediately brighten up again. „Cool, cool. ...'cause I had some fun too.“

„YoU'lL fOrgeT aBouT iT eVenTuaLly aNywAy.“

„Nope, I won't,“ he objects, surprising the other with his confident tone, „because sometimes, there are days even I can't get out of my head and somehow, I believe this is one of these.“ Ink suddenly laughs at a certain image in his head. „I mean, have you ever looked at yourself when you're eating chocolate you like? That's absolutely hilarious!“

„...tHis iS tHe oNe tHinG thAt sTucK wIth yOu?“

„Of course not! You make many funny faces, you know!“

Hiding his flustered expression behind his hands, Error groans (suuuuuper long this time) and then grumbles, „You'Re iMpoSsiBle.“

„Mmh, I hear that often.“ A cheeky smirk appears on Ink's face as he gets an idea. „...But that's not really a concrete description of me, don't you think?“

Upon recognizing the subtle stress of this word, Error carefully peeks between his fingers. „...nO, yoU caN't seRioUsly- nOw, of aLl tiMeS?“

„Why not? I don't leave aaany stones unturned in search for a good joke opportunity~“

„ThaT's deFinIteLy nOt a goOd oPpoRtuNitY foR jOkeS. Oh ÆthEr, jUst sToP.“

„No need to hit the ceiling 'cause I'm only fooling around-“

To Ink's surprise, Error makes some kind of weird noise behind his hands. Was that... a restrained snort? After both of them exchange looks with each other, blinking several times, Glitchy eventually coughs in an awkward manner while taking his prior sitting position again. „...wHat?“

„Noooothing~,“ Ink hums, wearing a sly expression.

„StoP lOokiNg tHaT waY.“

„And how do I look right now?“

„...liKe yOu.“

Eventually, Ink stops laughing as soon as his yellow paint is exhausted.

***

„Error? How long do you think we've been here already?“

„DoN't kNow. It'S prObaBly pAst MidNigHt aLreAdy,“ he answers, sounding more tired than before. „aRe yOu fiNalLy sHowInG sOme PropEr cOncErN foR ouR sItuAtiOn?“

„...I am worried too, you know,“ Ink insists as he frowns. „But constantly complaining about it won't get us out either.“

„...GueSs So.“

„How high are the chances of someone finding us?“

„WitH sOme LucK, soMeoNe fRoM a faCtoRy neArbY wiLl nOtiCe tHe dEstRucTioN sOonEr or LatEr aNd cHecK it OuT, buT i Don'T knOw hoW thE dAmaGe lOokS fRoM ouTsiDe; mAybE it'S noT viSibLe aT alL,“ Error explains before grumbling in anger again. „CraPpY bUilDinG cAn'T evEn wIthStaNd soMe bLasTer sHotS. WhaT a biG joKe tHesE coNstRucTioNs aRe.“

„But you kinda overdid it too, to be honest.“

„OkaY, mAyBe i diD. ArE yoU hApPy noW thAt I adMiTteD it?!“

Ink shrugs. „I actually don't care that much if you see it as your fault or not.“

„...tHeN foR whAt diD i JusT saY thAt?“

„Dunno. Remorse?“

„As iF,“ he objects, apparently finding the thought of it quite amusing.

After a short moment, Ink calls out again, „Error?“

„Hm?“

„What should we do if... no one ever finds us?“

„...diDn'T tHinK yOu caN geT pEsSimiStiC tOo.“ Getting himself more comfortable by sliding down the wall and supporting the back of his head with his hands, he continues, „YoU knoW, deSpiTe tHat onE tHinG i TolD yoU on thE cOnveNtiOn, yOu pRobAbly haVe sOme fRieNds whO aRe dUmb enOugH to bE wOrrIeD aBouT yOu anD wiLl tHerEforE tRy seArchIng For yOu at sOme pOinT. So tHeRe's thAt.“

„Don't you have anyone too who may be looking for you?“

„mE? PfFffF, nOpe, forGeT tHat.“ Error dismisses it with a chuckle. „My diSaPpEaRanCe wOulD rAthEr bE a jOyfuL oCcaSioN foR moSt pEoplE.“ When Ink does not comment on that, he also adds, „It SucKs moRe tHan aNytHinG, buT tHe onLy tHinG wE cAn dO riGhT noW is tO waIt aNd HopE.“

Ink stops asking questions when his orange paint dries out too.

***

In fact, it is pretty silly: There is always this tiny shred of hope that maybe, just maybe despite the paints wearing off, emotions have settled deep enough in Ink's core by now so they will actually remain forever. After all, being already used to them, it seems way too surreal that they just... vanish as if they never have been there in the first place. So Ink sometimes imagines that through the strong power of his own wish or something, he may grow real emotions. That is why in the past, he tried to stop consuming the paints again and again, hoping his wish would come true.

However, reality does not care for romantic fantasies.

The order of the vanishing colors is almost always following a certain pattern: Yellow, orange, cyan and pink. The ones considered to be the most positive. Red is usually around the middle part although in that specific case, it vanished first. Green is pretty random. And the rest? Then everything turns into some kind of dumb joke Ink is not even able to find funny anymore anyway.

The ray of light is getting dimmed more regularly by now. At one point, it stays dark for a whole minute straight, resulting in Ink holding his breath the entire time until the light reappears. However, there he comes to realize that Error's eyes are actually glowing a bit in the dark. Not very much, but enough to cling onto it with his gaze like a greedy moth. Unfortunately the glitch gets tired, thus closing his eyes.

„Uh, Error? Could you maybe keep your eyes open?“ Ink requests weakly.

„WhY? YoU wanT tO conTinUe tAlkInG oR whAt?“ the other asks, sounding quite annoyed as expected.

„No, just...“

„wElL?“

...There is probably no point in trying, is there? Error is not going to do him favors anyway. „...It's okay. Forget it.“

„...wEiRdo,“ he comments before closing his eyes with a heavy sigh.

Pressing his knees against his chest and embracing his legs, Ink is left alone with his own thoughts again.

One more time, it gets dark.

…

Ink counts 30 seconds.

There is no need to be afraid. Everything is still there. He can feel the cold ground underneath him, the hard wall behind him and when Ink stretches his arm, he can confirm the low ceiling is there too. There is no nothingness. He just cannot see things. That is all.

Ink counts 60 seconds.

Where does that uneasiness come from? Somewhere deep in his mind, there is a memory he cannot grasp yet. ...Does he want to, though?

No, this is silly. This is just darkness. It will go away eventually and his uneasiness is just the fault of a certain paint while others are missing. Everything is fine. Everything is there.

Ink counts 120 seconds.

...This kind of absolute darkness feels actually familiar. Like the one from his most common dream, the one Error calls 'the end'. Everything vanishes and becomes black. For everyone who dreams of it. This memory coming up... why now?

Ink counts 145 seconds.

He was thrown into nothingness. Falling endlessly. There was not even a ground. Just the end of existence.

Ink counts 167 seconds.

Oh stars, this darkness. Why is there nothing? There cannot be nothing! Everything was there before, so why is it gone?

Ink counts 173 seconds? 189? 209??? He probably miscounted at some point; there is no way so little time has passed. Can there even be time in nothingness? Oh god, the ground is going to vanish again, is it not? He will start falling again. Or is he already falling? One second, two seconds, three seconds- No, there is no point anymore! Ink being forgotten does not hold any meaning. Neither his failures. Neither his creations. Because there is nothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingthingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothingnothing

„WhAt'S wRoNg WiTh YoU?!“ A sudden outcry brings Ink back to reality. Looking up again, he notices a weak red shine illuminating their prison. Error. „WhY arE yOu hYpeRvenTilaTinG?!“

„...Hyperventilating?“

„ GoD, yoU aLmoSt gAve Me a FreAkiNg hEaRt atTacK hEre,“ Error huffs. „iS it ClaUstRophObiA?“

„No...“

„DarKneSs tHen?“

No answer.

Error sighs tiredly. „You'Re kiLliNg mE, sQuiD.“

After some moments have passed with him not returning back to sleep, Ink tilts his head at him, irritated. „BefOrE yOu aSk: i Can'T faLl aSleEp aNywAy whEn yOu stArT pAniCkiNg aGaiN. tHaT's whY yOu aSkeD aBouT mY eyEs, rIghT? BecAusE tHey EmiT liGhT?“

„...Yeah,“ Ink confirms hesitantly. „Thanks...“

Glancing at him out of the corner of his eye, Error sighs yet again. „SerIoUslY, i WiSh I sTaYeD aT hoMe tOdaY.“

Alongside the violet color, Ink's fear disappears soon after.

***

Error

Error realizes rather late that there is something in the pockets of his trousers. In the right one, and he is genuinely surprised at first to find it in there, is Ink's vial he obtained once. Probably due to their rumble before, some cracks have been created through which most of the black liquid has leaked out.

...Wait a minute.

…

Yes, there is indeed a disgusting black smudge on his right pocket now. Glaring at the Squid to his left, Error gets even more furious when he notices the unmoving expression on his face, still staring wordlessly at the ground and occasionally blinking in a stupid manner. Why it has started bothering him, he cannot tell himself… maybe because Ink looks dumber than usual that way. Yes, that is probably it.

Looking at the black vial again, Error remembers the three times he tried bringing this paint to different private laboratories so it would get examined. However, not a single one of them could tell him its purpose. Very likely, only Abomination #5 himself can. That sly bastard. Well, Error has already figured it out all by himself, so it does not matter anymore.

After putting the vial down on the ground next to him, he checks his other pocket. ...Oh. Oh. Two pieces of candy. But not any kind of candy: actual monster candy. Error got them for free at the café and wanted to save them for later. Well, they are now pressed flat and have possibly melted quite a bit, but he is not really in the position to be picky about sweets anyway. Besides, there is still magic in them (perhaps), so at least they will ease his headache a bit. A small glimmer of hope in this fiasco. Finally!

Smiling victoriously, Error consumes the first candy without removing the package first (who has time for that?). After chewing it for several seconds, savoring it thoroughly, he spits the wrapping out. Now, the second one-

A sudden outburst of the voices inside his head stops him in the process, even making him yelp. Ink gives the other a confused look, but does not comment on that at all, instead resumes to watch the ground shortly after.

Wordlessly, Error stares at the candy. What the hell just happened? Again, he tries to eat it and once more, the voices suddenly shriek at him, worsening his headache even more.

What. The. Hell. Is it too much to ask to eat one stupid candy?! What is their damn problem all of a sudden?! Do the voices enjoy seeing him suffer that much?!

Error brings the sweet slowly, very slowly close to his mouth again...

...AaaaAaaaAaaH! He would strangle these squallers if he could! If they just were more specific about their issues instead of letting his ears bleed!

„Eh,“ Ink utters as he watches Error fume.

„WhAt?!“

„...Nothing,“ he replies as he rubs his left shoulder. ...He has been doing this since quite a while now. Right, this is the spot where Error hit him with a bone, after all.

...Hold on. The glitch knows these cursed voices for many years now, so he is more or less able to get behind their intentions even if they are not very clear on them. This means... they scream at him for wanting to eat the second candy while an injured Ink is sitting next to him...

…

Oh, hell no. Not even in his dreams! Why should Error share anything with that moron?! That is ridiculous! Besides, this pathetic mush of a candy would never restore enough energy for Ink to be able to escape anyway, so there is no use in here! No, he will not let himself be controlled by the random moods of the voices! Not going to happen! Nope!

…

…

„So... i HiT yoU prEtTy hArd oN thE sHouLdeR thErE, riGhT? Heh,“ Error states smugly.

At first, Ink turns his head to silently look at the other. Again, that stupid confused expression. One of his eyes a green circle and the other a simple white dot. Something about the fact that the patterns are changing less frequently now is... actually unnerving Error, however, he decides to ignore this feeling.

„...fOr oNcE, I am The oNe iNitiAtinG a ConvErsAtiOn heRe anD yoU keEp qUieT? How IroNiC.“ Seriously, why does Error even bother in the first place?

„Yeah, I guess it hurts,“ Ink responds at last... but then he continues to blankly look at nothing again. What?! He does not even care about a hole in his shoulder?! Is he purposefully provoking him because he told him that he hates his nonchalance?! ...Or he is just tired like him.

Error looks at the candy again. On the pink wrapping, a cartoony one-eyed monster is smiling at him. He glances between this picture and the quiet Ink. After a while, he tries to eat it one more time, but the voices are interrupting him with their deafening screeches. With an angry growl, he carelessly throws the candy in front of Ink's feet, who, as expected, stares at him quizzically.

„JusT tAke iT,“ Error demands and as the other does not react immediately, he insists with a louder voice, „eAt iT beForE i ChaNgE my MinD!“

The moment Ink picks it up, unwraps it and starts eating it, the voices in his head suddenly cheer happily. Oh god. Just screw all of you.

***

„sO foR hOw loNg Do yoU noT hAvE a SouL?“ Error inquires curiously after a longer break of silence (it could have been minutes or hours. He cannot tell anymore).

„Since I can remember,“ Ink answers, sounding rather uninterested. „I don't know what came before. I've always known it this way.“

„hM. I gUesS sInCe soMe yeArS noW?“

„Yes, and I was found on the streets without any memories.“

„And At sOmE poInT, tHe vIaLs cAme aLonG?“

„After I have been adopted, a scientist who had a solution for me reached out to us.“ He is probably talking about #5, huh? „That's when I first felt something.“

„ArE yoU sUre tHerE is nO exPlaNatiOn foR wHy yoU'rE stIlL aLiVe liKe tHat?“ Is it even worth to persue this question? The only important thing to know is that this cannot be considered an anomaly in the Script itself. Although Error is curious, this may be a waste of his time.

„Not really,“ Ink replies.

„It StiLl sOunDs wAy tO uNcaNny tO be TruE. cAn't evEn iMagInE hoW it wOuLd fEel LiKe wiThoUt a SouL. PosSibLy eMptY aLl thE ti-“

Error gets quiet when he notices Ink staring at him. A small frown on his face and his eyelights a dark blue color. However after two more blinks, one of his patterns taking the form of an expressionless white dot, his face becomes unreadable. „When I drank my vials for the first time, it was the happiest moment in my life.“

Not being able to gaze into his eyes again, Error looks away.

***

„...I cAn'T stAy awAkE anY loNgEr. I'm tOo tiReD,“ Error speaks up and yawns.

Ink glances at him and for a moment, the glitch believes he would protest against it, but he simply says, „Okay.“ Normally, Error would feel uncomfortable to fall asleep next to this idiot, but he is too exhausted to care for anything right now, so he closes his eyes. However, he suddenly hears Ink's voice again: „I should probably mention something.“

„Out WitH iT thEn.“

„When you wake up again... it's possible that I won't answer you anymore.“

After furrowing his brow in confusions, Error chuckles weakly. „Oh, So yOu'Re ofFiCiAllY aNnoUncInG thAt yoU'rE gOinG to gIve me tHe siLenT trEaTmeNt? ThaT's ActUalLy tHe bEst kInD of PrEseNt yOu caN giVe me. ThaNks foR thAt, sQuiD.“

Not receiving any kind of response, he quickly falls asleep this time.

***

„...aNd tHen whEn i ThOughT I fiNaLly gOt CorE, I haD to fInD oUt tHey haVe mUltiPle bOdieS! WhaT kInd oF cRaP is tHaT?!“ Error complained while almost ruining his knitting creation in the process due to his rage.

His conversation partner sitting close to him laughed. „Poor Glitchy is sad because he couldn't beat up a child~“

„ThaT's noT a nOrmAl kiD! It'S a StuPid AbomInaTion liKe tHe reSt of YoU!“

„Huh, that again? Your slogans are getting old,“ Ink answered, meanwhile drawing something in his sketchbook.

„BuT it'S thE tRuTh,“ Error huffed. Deciding to take a short break from knitting, he instead looked up to the bright starry sky.

„So are there things you don't consider to be abominations?“ Ink questioned at one point.

„WhaT? YoU thiNk i'M hAtiNg eVeryThiNg anD evEryOne?“

„You sometimes give off the impression, yes,“ he confirmed, giggling at that.

„i'M juSt hAviNg sTanDarDs,“ Error corrected, then started thinking. „...sWeeT sTuFf?“

„That's obvious, silly.“

„i GueSs thErE aRe onE or TwO tV sHoWs thAt aRe oKay.“

„Mhm.“

„...stArS?“ At first, Error hesitated to bring up his next point but then said eventually, „...tHe oRigInaL uNiverSe tOo.“

After mentioning that, he felt Ink staring at him from the side. „Wow, that's pretty neat!“

„Don'T geT yoUr hOpeS hIgH uP.“

„Hey, if you like that one, then that means you would also like renditions that are pretty close to it, huh?!“

„CaN yoU sToP bAbbLinG foR a sEcoNd?“

„How about I create a list with every AU that is similiar to the original? We could visit them together and I'll show you around!“

„You'Re iGnoRiNg me aGaIn, arEn'T yoU?“

„Do you have time tomorrow?! Oh wait, we can even manage it today if I start writing them down now. Sneaky idea, am I right?!“ Laughing heartily, he picked up his scarf, a pen ready in his other hand. „Let's seeee...“

„I'm NoT iNteRestEd in AnY of tHosE bLaTanT cOpiEs, duMbaSs,“ Error objected, continuing his knitting again. Why had he brought up this topic in the first place? That was a stupid idea.

„'Copies'? They're all special in their own way!“

„lEt'S noT diScuSs thAt thInG agAiN. It AlwAys Ends thE sAme WaY.“

Without even looking, Error could tell that the other was pouting right now, probably thinking about some nonsensical counterargument. Or maybe he would be smart enough to actually drop this topic. And proceed to bring up another dumb thing. Whatever the result would be, Error was actually... anticipating it? Morbid curiosity, probably.

„So have I ever told you the story of Dream and the painting?“

Another dumb thing it was, then. „nOpE.“

„So once I asked him what kind of birthday present he would want and he said he would be happy if he got a picture drawn by me, so I did: I drew a compilation of every AU he loves as one whole painting. Theeen on his birthday, we decided to bake an apple cake together and he had put down the picture on the kitchen table for the time being. Well, then I completely screwed up the stirring process!“ In the middle of his laughter, Ink got suddenly silent. „Wait, where was I...?“

„ThE stIrriNg.“

„Oh, yeah! So the mass of flour and baking powder flew eeeeverywhere because I overdid the stirring and some of them got on the picture. At the same time, Dream came back from getting the apple juice, but he tripped because of the carpet and it landed on the painting too! At the end, it was stained with all kinds of stuff; you could say we practically made the cake on the picture!“

„...i'M imPreSseD yoUr sTupIdiTy hAsn'T kiLlEd yOu yEt,“ Error uttered as he processed the mental image of the story in his head.

„Guess I'm lucky~,“ Ink answered proudly. „However, so the painting was basically ruined, but Dream kept it nonetheless, even to this day. And every time we see it with all the gross stains and everything, we start to laugh because the memories of the incident come back.“

„AnD whY do yOu teLl me aLl of ThiS?“

„Well, because- uuuuh...“ He frowned but then snorted. „Funny, I forgot which point I wanted to get across!“

„MorOn,“ Error replied while chuckling and adding the last touches on his puppet.

„Sooooo... any other things you cherish?“

The glitch glanced at him and his eyes, which had taken the form of yellow stars... maybe a bit too long since at some point, they became question marks as Error had stayed silent all the while. Looking away again, he hastily responded, „Can'T thInK oF anYthInG elSe riGhT noW.“

In his hands, he held an Ink puppet, its button eyes sparkling in the light and brightly smiling at Error.

***

Awakening rather unpleasantly, the first thing Error realizes is that he has probably not slept for long since it still seems to be nighttime. He vaguely remembers a dream, but only small bits have remained in his memory. Not that it really matters right now anyway.

Whatever, the problem now is that he cannot sleep properly. Error could force a reboot, but it would make him feel more vulnerable when another person is around, more so than normal sleep. Speaking of which: He looks to his left and spots Ink, who is now lying motionlessly on the ground. On second glance, Error notices that his eyes are still open.

„CaN't sleEp eIthEr, hUh?“ No response. „I thInK i DreAmeD aBouT uS. SeEms liKe yOu cAn'T evEn lEavE mE alOnE thEre. AnNoyInG sQuiD.“ He rubs his eyes while yawning. „SerIoUsly noW, aFteR i Had mY fiRsT dReAm aBouT yOu, thE firSt thOugHt tHat CaMe iNto mY miNd wAs sOmetHinG liKe, 'whAt an InsuFferaBle GuY. I hoPe I'lL neVeR dReAm aBouT hiM aGaiN'. BuT of CouRsE yoU kePt bOthErIng mE, hEh.

...dO yoU knoW wHat tHe moSt aNnoYinG dReaMs wItH yoU aRe? Not tHe oNes whEre We'Re fiGhtIng bUt wheRe we'rE... tAlkInG. ThEy'Re irRitAtinG, tO saY thE lEasT. ...i dOn'T evEn kNoW wHy I'm TelLinG yOu aLl of ThiS.“ He furrows his brow when he receives no answer again. Not even one single stupid comment? „oH i SeE, sO yOu'rE aCtuAlLy dOinG yOur siLenT tReaTmeNt, hUh? BeT yOu woN't lAst loNg.“

…

…

…

„I dOn'T eVen sEe yOur PoiNt in DoiNg tHis. It WoUld bE a moRe fiTtiNg 'pUnisHmeNt' foR mE if yOu juSt KepT tAlkIng wItH no End.“

…

…

…

Perhaps Ink did fall asleep? But upon inspecting the other skeleton again, he realizes his eyes are still wide open... his pupils being two white pinpricks... and not even blinking once. Confused at this, Error calls out, „iS thIs oNe oF yoUr StuPid JoKeS? Are YoU pLaYinG dEaD?“

Several times, Error snaps his fingers in front of the other's face and waves with his hand to get his attention. However, Ink keeps... just staring into nothingness. No reaction at all. Unnerved by this, Error slowly withdraws, pressing his back against the wall again as he continues observing the unmoving artist.

No... nothing about this seems right. This is not Ink's normal type of joking. Usually, he is just being an obnoxious idiot. But this? This is straight up uncanny as hell.

„When you wake up again... it is possible that I won't answer you anymore.“

This one sentence keeps repeating in his head, as well as whispering among the voices, creating some conspiracies. Not able to withstand the tension anymore, Error decides to make use of the monster candy's energy and opens Ink's bookmark to check on him. And what he finds there...

INK

LV: 1

HP: 57/100 MP: 31/300

AT: 1 EXP: 0

DF: 1 NEXT: 10

SOUL:

[…]

...is nothing.

***

Even about an hour later, Ink does not move a bit. Despite trying his best to ignore him, Error cannot help but stare at him. So... is this his default state without the paints? An empty shell of himself? Although Ink does not do a thing, his mere presence in this form is... unsettling.

…

No, this is dumb. Error wanted him to shut up and his wish has been fulfilled. He should be more than glad.

…

God, the voices are getting annoying again. Why do they make such a big deal out of the Squid? It is not as if he were dead or anything. Just... not moving. That is all.

…

Error swears that somewhere in the muddle of all the voices, he is able to hear him:

„Cool, cool. ...'cause I had some fun too.“

„VerY liKelY onE of yOuR maNipuLatIon tActiCs aGaiN,“ Error grumbles, making a discontent face.

„Of course I would remember our encounter! It's one of my favorite dreams, after all!“

„WhY in tHe hElL woUld It bE? You'Re wEiRd.“

„Oh, you see, my very first multiverse dream was also my very first dream in general, so I wrote it immediately after waking up because I was so excited that it finally had happened to me!“

Can a soulless person dream? Could Ink even dream in his current state? Normally, dreams exist to process stress or something like that. Let us assume a soulless person would not be able to dream at all: Would it not make their shared dreams even more special? ...Well, this is only an assumption.

„Sooooo... any other things you cherish?“

...What? When did the Squid ask him that? What is the context here? „...tHerE aRe a CouPle oF niCe thInGs i LikE.“ Staring at the other's expressionless eyelights again, he murmurs, „I, uH, gUeSs i LikE sTaRs, fOr eXamPle.“

„When I drank my vials for the first time, it was the happiest moment in my life.“

Suddenly Error remembers. He crawls towards the spot he thinks he has left the black vial. Picking it up, he inspects it in the thin ray of light shining into the chamber. Despite most of the vial's content being gone, there still is a tiny bit in it. Maybe with it, he could...

…

Okay, so here is the thing: He is not doing this for Ink or anything. Definitely not. Error just spontaneously decided that he prefers an annoying, talking Squid over a corpse of him in very narrow space. Who would not find it uncomfortable? Besides, he is curious about the black paint's effect. He has always watched attentively Ink drinking his vials, but he cannot remember if he has ever used that one. So... it is time for an experiment.

Since Ink is lying on his side, Error would be forced to roll him over so he would be able to pour the paint into his mouth... or just repositioning his head alone. That must be enough (good grief, why does everything has to be so complicated?). Hesitating at first, Error eventually turns his head so Ink faces the ceiling. After the burning feeling of the touch has faded away, he prepares himself to make him drink the black paint. But how much should the dose be? Maybe just a few drops as a start.

…

Nothing happens. Is it not supposed to react immediately? Should he wait a bit longer? Or use more of the liquid? Error adds more drops. He does not know this paint's purpose; it could be something dangerous like the red one. Better not risk too much when Error is currently not in the best position to defend himself.

Out of the corner of his eye, he notices Ink's fingers twitching. With anticipation, Error keeps observing his face to see any change of reaction. There! The corners of his mouth start to rise!

…

…

…?

That is... strange. His grin does not stop spreading. Error recoils a bit but keeps watching nevertheless. Then it seems as if his white pupils are being consumed by the darkness of his eye sockets. Ink's whole body slowly begins to tremble.

Without any warning, the artist spits out black liquid and covers his mouth as he violently coughs. That is when Error decides to keep his distance, way too shocked to speak up at first. Why is Ink suddenly squirming like crazy? What the hell is the black paint supposed to accomplish?!

„s-SquId?“ he hesitantly calls out when the other starts to vomit.

Eventually, he stops. Now Ink is resting there while shivering slightly with his back turned to Error, who is not able to see his expression.

„...SquId?“ he tries again.

With one swift motion, startling Error, Ink turns around again. Big empty eyes are staring unblinkingly and a wide, unnaturally wide grin where black liquid keeps leaking out is smiling at him. The tension in the air is enough to paralyze Error.

„ArE yOu... alRigHt?“ he quietly asks after a while. There is a subtle cringe upon hearing his glitchy voice. Seriously, this whole situation is now more messed up than before. „CaN yoU sAy sOmetH-“

Ink lunges at Error, pinning him against the ground and squeezing his throat. His eyes widening in panic, he instinctively grabs his wrists in order to free himself, but his grip is too strong. God, it burns like hell-

„...w...h...,“ Ink utters incoherently, splatters of the black liquid landing on the other's cheek. „y...y......u...“

In his desperation, Error uses one of his hands to snap his fingers, trying to summon anything. It takes a couple of tries and he instantly feels a wave of tiredness wash over him, but he actually manages to manifest a bone in his hand. However, his hope gets crushed as Ink reacts faster than him and grabs his wrist to prevent him from striking with it. He squeezes hard enough to make Error cry out in pain although the choking restrains his voice.

„...f...a......l...t...“

Error stares at Ink's rigid face in blank horror while his vision is being slowly consumed by the error signs filling his eyes. It is not just the pain of him basically trying to break his neck, but the sensation of the touches as well. It burns. God, make it stop. It burns, it freaking bUrNs-

Somewhere between the error signs, Error believes he sees these two familiar white eyelights again. Please tell him the effect is wearing off already.

Ink's grips are getting weaker. At last, like a liveless doll, he collapses on top of Error. After not daring to move for the first seconds, he then shoves him to the side and hastily crawls towards the corner that is the farest away from him.

Curling up into a ball, Error crashes.

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Frisk

The rays of the morning sun are shining through the rooftop's windows of the workshop as Frisk awakens, sitting on a chair and a blanket wrapped around them. While having a stretch, they hear Sans greet, „*morning.“ Next to them, the skeleton is still tinkering on the unconscious Flowey, placed on the workbench. At the moment he is apparently replacing the broken petals with new ones. „*ya still could've slept on the couch, would've been far more comfortable.“

„*Just in case you needed my help,“ Frisk explains as they watch Chara floating beside them, who, even after all this time, is still staring intently at their flower friend.

„*nice of ya, but it wasn't necessary, really,“ Sans answers, then yawns and takes the cup of coffee standing on the table. After just one sip, his face visibly scrunches up. „*seriously, they should ban this foul brew.“

„*You wouldn't believe me if I told you how many times he cursed his idiotic drink while you were asleep.“ Chara snorts a bit. „*Even I learned some swear words of which I hadn't known they existed in the first place.“

Finding the image of it quite funny, Frisk smiles before their serious face returns. „*Say, how's Gearey doing? Will he be okay?“

„*i'm actually almost finished,“ Sans states as he installs the second last petal. „*don't worry, little nags always come back. even some pillar won't be enough to finish them off, heh.“

„*Agreed.“

„*...i'm also referring to another certain nag that is present here with us.“ Pouting angrily, Chara crosses their arms and glares at Sans, who is chuckling. „*but you're probably also worried 'bout ink, right?“

„*Yes, I still am...,“ Frisk confirms, knitting their brow. They cannot stop thinking about the possibility of both Ink and Error being... more than just hurt. Did they actually destroy an entire factory as Flowey implied? Just what on earth happened to them? An argument? That would be so typical. Last night Frisk was constantly trying to call Ink, but he did not answer his phone, so they called the city guard instead to search for them. However, there has been no reply yet.

...Losing Ink would not just mean losing a friend. Losing either of them or both would also mean... losing something else. And that something is almost more dreadful to Frisk. ...It is probably egoistic to feel that way in the first place. They know it.

„*y'know, ink can easily be categorized as a little nag too, at least sometimes, heh. so don't worry too much, bucko. i'm sure he's fine“ Sans reassures. „*but don't tell him i called him 'little'. he'd instantly quit our friendship.“

„*I won't,“ they promise, a little giggle escaping them.

„*welp, i'm done,“ he announces, looking at his work with pride.

„*When will he wake up?“ Chara inquires.

„*should be in a couple of minutes if i did everything right; we'll see.“ Standing up and stretching his tired bones, Sans asks, „*how 'bout breakfast? i could make us some sandwiches with milk. or cornflakes if ya like.“

Frisk looks at their ghost companion, who says with a shrug, „*I'm fine either way.“

„*Then some sandwiches for us, please,“ they request.

„*no problem, boss. i'll be right back.“ After that, Sans leaves the workshop.

As their friend foretold, Flowey eventually starts to produce some odd clicking noises before his gear head turns several rounds until it stops. Upon realizing his current situation, he utters, „*Oh god, finally-“

„*Yes, finally, partner,“ Chara agrees while leaning forward with a menacing smile, making the just awakened flower recoil. „*Now would you please explain to us what happened last night~?“

„*No need to be so aggressive, Chara,“ Frisk lectures them with a rather soft tone (always the same with them).

„*Well, he needs to understand how much of a big idiot he is!“

„*So... last night,“ Flowey begins carefully. „*I was following the boneheads around when an argument broke out between them.“

„*I've seen this coming,“ Frisk comments and sighs.

„*So they provoked each other until they decided to sort it out somewhere else. They were fighting in a factory in Hotland, I've been watching them-“

„*What a wise decision of you, friend of mine~,“ Chara hums, their sarcasm shining through.

„*Please let him explain himself,“ Frisk asks calmly.

„*Oh, I certainly will. Go on.“

„*W-Well, the glitching skeleton won, then they talked and the ceiling collapsed on us although I was able to escape fast enough. That's basically it.“

„*So why didn't you come back to us after the argument on the convention? That is exactly the one thing I wanted to prevent, Gearey,“ Frisk states, their brow furrowing in worry yet again.

„*Oh, let me guess! Let me guess!“ Chara calls out enthusiastically, again leaning forward to stare closely into Flowey's eyes. „*He was curious, wasn't he?“

„*About what?“ Frisk questions.

„*He wanted to witness their fight. Isn't that right, Azzy?“

„*...Yes, it's true,“ he confesses hesitantly and after a short pause explains, „*Can you imagine how boring things have become? Despite me following you around for almost three years at this point, the only things you could ever provide me with on a regular basis have been visiting your friends who are always doing the same things and dull diplomacy work.“ With every spoken word, his frustration seems to grow. „*Those dreams and universes I've kept hearing about, on the other hand, they're really interesting. And I wanted to see with my own eyes how destructive the two idiots can be, if they would match your descriptions or not.“

„*...But I thought we made a promise,“ Frisk murmurs.

With a metallic laugh, Flowey gloatingly states, „*Oh, did you seriously believe things will always go your way? Well, how does it feel like to be suddenly not able to predict people's moves anymore?!“

„*Oh, who's getting smug here all of a sudden?“ Chara interrupts while grabbing two of his petals with both hands, surprising Flowey enough to make him yelp with a shrill voice. „*The real idiot in this situation are you. Getting hit by a pillar is what you deserve for being so reckless~“

„*W-Wouldn't you have done the same thing if you were in my situation?!“

„*Dumb question.“ They pull strongly on both petals with the same unmoved smile. „*I would never leave my partner worried like that~“

„*Stopstopstopstopstopstopstopstop!“

„*Enough,“ Frisk intervenes, letting go of the other who is still wincing in pain (or... something like pain? He is still a robot flower, after all). „*Don't pull on him. He has just been repaired again.“

„*As long as he has learned his lesson,“ Chara replies, an angry undertone still remaining.

Flowey does not answer, but instead averts his gaze. However when Frisk suddenly pats his gear head, he glances at them, confused. „*It's okay,“ they say. „*I'm not mad at you.“

„*...Whatever. It doesn't matter,“ Gearey mumbles. „*You will be if we find out that they were crushed by boulders.“

„*We have to check on them immediately,“ Frisk decides in a determined manner. „*Do you still remember the location?“

„*Yes, I guess.“

„*How high do you think the chances are that they are... um...“

„*Alive?“ Flowey adds. „*I guess it's possible that they're still trapped there if they're lucky. I didn't check because my head didn't work right at that time.“

„*Then we're going.“ Picking up the flower pot, they also ask, „*For how long would they be trapped by now? More than ten hours?“

„*They'd survive that as long as they're not badly injured,“ Chara speaks up.

„*...Or as long as they haven't strangled each other by now,“ Flowey comments.

„*Your pessimism isn't helping, Azzy~“

„*I just... guess the paints are working long enough?“ Frisk whispers in deep thought.

„*You're talking about these vials on his bandolier, right? I saw him removing that thing before they started their fight,“ Flowey mentions.

„*You mean... he wasn't wearing it when the collapse happened?“

„*No.“

That would mean... if he is actually still trapped in there for that long...

...Oh.

„*In Hotland, yes? Someone who lives at that area can actually help us then,“ Frisk explains, taking their leave.

But when they reach the door, Sans coincidentally opens it in the same moment, a plate with sandwiches in one hand and a milk carton in the other. „*oops, sorry it took so long. i managed to misplace the bread, whenever that happened. it was under the couch, by the way, heh,“ he explains, then catches sight of Flowey. „*oh, weed's fit again, huh? is everything functioning well?“

„*Yes, thank you,“ Frisk replies and intends to leave the room. „*We're out for a while.“

„*oh, to search for ink? did he already tell ya the location? eh, wait a minute, kid-“

„*It's okay, I know who to call for help. You can rest meanwhile,“ Frisk declares as Sans follows them.

„*wait, ya sure? maybe i should come too.“

„*No, I want you to rest. And don't worry, Gearey and Chara are with me.“

„*but-“

Before Sans can say anything more, the ghost has already taken control and storms off. „*Sorry, but our team is full! No more place for an old bag of bones~,“ Chara announces gleefully.

„*hey, don't overdo it, brat!“ Sans calls after them, then tiredly leans against the wall to his side. „*...i'm not that old, by the way.“

Meanwhile Frisk advices their flower friend, „*You should thank him later. For repairing you, I mean. He stayed awake the whole night to fix you.“

„*Only because you were the one who asked,“ Gearey counters.

„*No, not because of that. He also used his most valuable components for you although that wouldn't have been necessary.“

„*...Also hardly ever did a break,“ Chara adds a bit reluctantly.

Flowey sighs. „*Being almost crushed to death by a pillar and now owing something to the smiley trashbag. What an awful week so far.“

***

Error

Error is resting somewhere in a state of being awake and asleep. There is almost no more energy for him left to move or even properly think. He is too tired. But eventually, he starts hearing voices again, which at first only sound like incomprehensible echoes in the background. However, they get louder and louder almost as if they are actually coming closer to him.

„What a giant mess,“ one voice comments, sounding worried. „So how are we supposed to find them if they're still buried somewhere?“

„Maybe just try callin' 'em?“ a low and rough voice suggests. Wait, Error's voices usually do not sound that stupid.

„*I hope... they're even in the state to answer us.“ ...or like a kid. „*I don't know if Ink can at least...“

„Hey! Is anyone there?!“ the first voice shouts. „Ink? Error?“

Finally he comes to realize that actual people are out there, so he shakily lifts himself up. Dizziness overcomes him and he is not even sure whether he can find the strength to use his voice. However, he vaguely registers that the bone he has summoned before his crash is still in his hand. Grabbing it tighter, Error knocks on the wall several times.

„I've heard somethin',“ the second voice speaks up.

„Really? I'm not hearing anything.“

„Psssssh.“

God, can they hurry up? It feels like Error's arm may go numb again.

„Over there.“ The sound of footsteps is getting nearer.

Groaning tiredly, Error faceplants the hard ground. The people outside are talking amongst each other, but he cannot perceive their words properly anymore due to exhaustion. Eventually he hears a loud noise nearby, reminding him of blaster sounds, and after it stops, he feels someone turning him over.

Suddenly some kind of disgusting medicine is being poured into Error's mouth, making him frown until he tears open his eyes and pushes that substance away. „It tAstEs hOrrEndOus.“

„It isn't supposed to taste good, just give you a temporary boost until you can get treated properly,“ Sci explains, kneeling beside him as he looks at the baffled glitch in amusement. „So... long time no see, huh?“

„WhaTevEr. MovE, i NeEd my SpaCe,“ Error demands and sits up while the other sighs. Also, standing behind Abomination #5, there are a kid with a blank stare and a flower in a pot in their hands and another skeleton, wearing a thick black jacket and a cap. A grim expression adorns his face, his sharp golden tooth gleaming in the light.

On instinct, Error narrows his eyes in deep discontentment. „#13 toO, huH?“

„Errrrr,“ Red utters as he averts his gaze and begins to sweat.

„I didn't have enough coffee for this,“ Sci mumbles while rubbing his face before turning to #13 and requesting, „Could you please help getting Ink out of here?“ Giving a nod, Red crawls inside the chamber to get to said skeleton who is still lying motionlessly behind Error. „So I was informed about everything what happened between the two of you,“ Sci mentions, giving a friendly smile...

...before smacking the back of Error's head.

„WhAt ThE hElL?! I sTiLl hAvE a HeAdaChE, yOu BaStArD!“

„Oh, I've got some too after hearing about that,“ Sci retorts with a scowl.

„Uh, Sci?“ Red calls out and holds up the black vial he has found nearby Ink.

Readjusting his glasses, he asks, „Am I seeing correctly? Is this the black paint?“

„Yup. There're also some dried black tracks runnin' down his mouth.“

Turning to Error again, Sci inquires worriedly, „Error, what exactly happened? Did Ink drink his black paint?“

„...i'M noT in thE mOoD to TalK abOuT thAt,“ he responds with a grumpy expression and suddenly shivers a little when the memory about the incident comes back. What the hell?

Rolling his eyes, Sci declares, „Let's get out of here first.“

Walking through the new-created exit, Error blinks several times in annoyance since he has to get used to the bright light again. Rubble is lying around everywhere and when he looks up, he notices the rooftop has still remained, however, the second floor is basically not accessible anymore now.

„*Um,“ Frisk utters quietly, announcing their presence. Error remembers them seeing once or twice through the Squid's bookmark. So after all, it was one of his friends saving them.

„WhaT?“

„*...Nice to meet you,“ they whisper with a shy smile.

Because Error does not desire to engage in unnecessary conversation right now, especially with some kid, he simply sighs. Stars, he cannot wait to lay down on his comfy bed and forget about all the recent crap for a while.

„So tell me now,“ Sci insists. Great, he is not going to let go of this topic, is he?

„YeS, he Did dRinK iT.“

„Oh. Did he... do something afterwards?“

„TriEd tO stRanGle mE,“ Error explains and he almost visibly shudders again when the image of Ink's wide grin and his pitch-black eyes looking down at him appears in his mind's eye. Or the memory of the burning touch- No, all of this is pure nonsense. There is no need to feel uneasy about that anymore; he should rather be angry at him for that, right? But looking at the empty expression of Ink, who is now being carried on Red's back, Error cannot muster enough rage for some reason... probably just his exhaustion.

„Hm, that would explain the mark on your neck,“ Sci mumbles as he eyes him.

„TheRe iS?“ he asks, surprised as he rubs the spot. Well, that is at least very much annoying.

„Say, do you know why he drank it? Because I know he's not a big fan of it and it's hard to imagine he would consume it in, uh, such a situation.“

„i MadE hiM dRinK iT aFteR he sToPpeD rEacTinG.“

…

Sci smacks him again.

„WhAt'S tHe MaTtEr, YoU sTuPiD-?!“

When #13 snorts, Error glares at him sternly, which causes him to stop immediately and nervously avert his eyes.

„Why would you do that?! Did you even know what would happen?! Apparently not, I guess!“ Sci shouts.

„TheN wHy sHouLd it Be mY fAulT if i dIdn'T knoW, hUh?!“

„ All of this mess here wouldn't have happened in the first place if you acted like a decent person for once!“

„hEy, tHe SquiD is tO blAme tOo!“

„But who started the argument first?! Tell me!“

„Eh, can't we just agree that both were idiots and move on?“ Red hesitantly intervenes.

After the two previously yelling skeletons exchange some looks with each other, Sci eventually sighs, declaring, „Okay, let's just leave.“

While making their way through the path that is not blocked by rubble, Sci inquires, „How much did you give him to drink?“

„A cOuPle oF dRopS.“

„He probably vomited afterwards, right? When did he... stop moving again?“

„AftEr aBouT a MinUte, i GueSs.“

„That's fortunate. If he had stayed longer in that state, then you would...“ A pause. „Well, let's not think about that.“

„WhaT's tHe blAcK pAinT evEn suPpoSed to dO? AnD i AlrEadY knOw aBouT hiS sOulLesSneSs by tHe wAy.“

„I'd rather not mention anything that Ink wouldn't want to tell you. Go try asking him yourself if you want to know it that badly,“ Sci explains before sighing again in frustration. „But if you want to hear my personal recommendation: just don't. Your curiosity has never done anything good to you.“

„...sIncE wHen Do I liSteN tO yOu?“

„And that's where the problem lies.“

In the entrance area that is still intact, Error grabs his coat and the other items he has left behind. As Sci picks up Ink's bandolier and intends to leave, the glitch questions, „WiLl yOu noT giVe hiM tHe pAinTs noW?“

„I'll better do it in the lab. Uh, far better than here,“ Sci answers, then suddenly glances strictly at him. „You're coming too, by the way.“

„wHy? I'd raTheR reSt aT hOme.“

„Just to check if you have any injuries or anything.“

„I'm FinE,“ he insists.

„Doubt it. I also have some medical expertise, so you can trust my smart judgement,“ Sci says and readjusts his glasses in a proud manner. „Come on, we also haven't talked for ages. I can prepare some hot chocolate if you like.“

„I'm nOt thAt kEen to InvEst mOre tIme in aNy oF yoU rIghT noW.“

„So you are keener to walk around with a headache instead?“ the other counters, raising one bonebrow.

Error groans.

***

It certainly feels awkward to walk into the building of the 'Grand Workshop' since Error is considered to be 'the Destroyer of Progress' and such. But despite the common opinion of some eggheads, he does not hate the building for what it represents or produces. Actually, in contrast to the majority of stupid crap that is being invented, some useful stuff is made here, for example the mettaphon (although Error questions its usefulness now because it has enabled the Squid to annoy him constantly).

„Sorry, I actually didn't think about it,“ Sci suddenly apologizes.

„aBouT whAt?“

„About you not liking this place.“

„I dOn't CaRe. It'S jUsT aNothEr FacTorY.“ Error dismisses it with a slack hand gesture.

„But one with some memories,“ Sci adds, looking at him seriously.

„LiKe i SaiD: I don'T cArE.“

„...If you say so.“

Later on, Error and Frisk are sitting on a bench in the waiting room of the laboratory where Sci is working. While the first two have a cup of hot chocolate, the latter is drinking coffee, leaned against the wall nearby.

„So yOu Didn'T tElL me tHat yoU knEw thE sQuiD,“ Error states reproachfully.

„And what do you think was my reason behind this? First off, I did it for Ink's sake: Knowing his... well, exhausting character traits, I predicted he would annoy you to a point in which you would become furious. In the end I was right, and the result is even worse than I imagined, but at least the two of you are okay. And second off, I did it for your sake too.“ Confused by this, Error stares quizzically at him. „I thought you might obsess over the whole dream thing again once the two of you would meet each other.“

„AnD wHy shOulD it ConcErn You?“ he asks, eyeing the other suspiciously.

„You might get sleepless nights again.“

„...i StiLl cAn't SeE hOw iT cOnceRns yOu.“

„Of course you can't.“ Sighing, Sci sips on his coffee. „Another thing I wanted to mention: Whenever Ink reverts to becoming emotionless, he cannot remember the last things he did very well, so it is likely that he won't recall his assault on you... and I actually hoped you'd do me a favor and not remind him of that.“

„wHy?“

Sci huffs. „Why 'why'? Of course he would feel bad about that, you insensitive brick!“

„TheN hE jUst sHouLdn'T dRinK thE pAiNt tHat WouLd mAke hIm feEl tHis wAy in tHe firSt pLaCe,“ Error grumbles. But seriously now: Why is Ink not just drinking the positive vials constantly to remain a stupid, happy Squid forever? Why voluntarily feel sadness or remorse? Unlike other people, he has actually an option to control his emotions. ...The more he thinks about it the more messed up it sounds.

„You just don't get the point.“

„WeLl, anD wHat iS thE pOinT tHen?“

„Hard to feel like an actual normal person if you lack basic emotions like anger, shame, sadness or even hatred, don't you think?!“ Sci snarls at him. As Error does not know what to respond to this, the other skeleton adds with a much quieter voice, „...I'm sorry. I really don't want to yell at you, but... you're sometimes more difficult to handle than Ink at his worst.“

„...i SeE tHis aS aN iNsuLt.“

„Yeah, you should.“ Chuckling, Sci pushes himself off the wall. „I guess I'll check on Ink again. Eh, I'm not sure if he'll be in the mood to talk with you right now-“

„Don'T bOthEr. mE NeiTheR,“ Error interrupts and with a generous sip, gulps down the rest of his hot drink.

„Okay then.“ Sci attempts to leave, but then turns around again as he is reminded of something. „By the way, there's also another favor: Is it possible that you can forgive Ink for his, uh, action? It's not his fault; that paint is quite intense and having nothing else to balance it out... well, it always ends unpleasantly. But maybe it's too much to ask... I would be scared too if I saw him like that.“

„...dOn't cOunT on iT.“

„Well, thought so.“ While walking towards the door on the right, Sci calls after him, „Maybe you, Geno and me should hang out sometimes.“

„YoU mEaN witH yoU bRinGing in #13 tOo?“ Error asks, looking completely displeased at the thought.

Rolling his eyes, Sci says, „You're incorrigible.“

After he has left the room, only then Error notices the nagging stare from the side. „WhaT?“

„*...Nothing,“ Frisk answers while evading the other's gaze.

„So diD yOu knOw wHerE we eXacTly wEre?“

The kid nods.

„hoW?“

„*I asked Gearey to follow you...,“ they murmur, pointing at the flower.

„*Stop calling me like that,“ he grumbles.

„WhY wOulD yoU lEt sOmeOne fOlLow us?“ Error questions, voice filled with suspicion again.

„*I was worried...“

„DiD tHe SquId tElL yoU aBouT uS?“

„*His dreams... I've been reading them. I know how you're always, um, arguing. When I saw you at the convention, I thought something... bad might happen...“

„HmpF,“ Error simply responds, still looking at them dismissively.

„*...Now you're staring...,“ Frisk whispers.

„SomEhoW, i DoN't liKe yoUr FacE.“

„*Thank god I'm not the only one,“ Flowey mumbles.

The moment Error opens his Script, the kid and the gear head curiously peek from the side. After a short while, he finds their stats:

*FRISK

LV: 1

HP: 20/20 MP: 0/0

AT: 1 EXP: 0

DF: 1 NEXT: 10

SOUL: DETERMINATION

[*A little anxious, but determined.]

The soul type might be rare, but there is nothing out of norm. Now the flower:

*FLOWEY

LV: 1

HP: 10/10 MP: 20/20

AT: 5 EXP: 0

DF: 5 NEXT: 10

SOUL:

[*...]

…

„*What's with that face?“ Flowey asks as Error looks down at him with a deadpan.

„...yOu'Re sOulLeSs tOo, huH?“

„*Wha-?! You can tell with that thing?!“ he calls out in disbelief and moves his head so he can see the screen properly.

„JusT... wHat tHe hElL?! HoW mAnY of You wIthoUt a SoUl aRe acTuaLly Out TheRe?!“ Error questions, feeling suddenly creeped out by that thought.

„*They're uncommon enough that... most humans and monsters don't even know they can exist...,“ Frisk explains.

„sO is tHe fLowEr heRe drInkiNg pAinTs tOo or WhaT?“

„*Disgusting. Don't compare me with that idiot,“ Flowey replies. „*There're different types of us. And I'm not like him.“

„tHen wHiCh TypE arE yOu?“

„*Please... let's not discuss that,“ Frisk requests, knitting their brow slightly as they gently caress one of his petals.

Cringing a bit, but not recoiling completely, Flowey murmurs discontently, „*...I'm not your pet.“

Whatever, it does not matter that much anyway. The most important thing to know is that neither of them are an outcode. So Error's intuition has failed him this time.

„*And... what did it say about my soul?“ the kid inquires.

„'DeTerMiNatiOn'.“

„*Nothing more...?“

„NopE. JusT suPerFicIal sTufF.“

„*Hm, I see.“

After several minutes of silence, Frisk suddenly speaks up again, „*Um, I was wondering about something...“

„AboUt whAt?“

„*What kind of, uh, relationship do you and Ink have?“

„We'Re bAsiCalLy cOntrAct PartNerS, bUt nOne of tHis iS yoUr bUsinEss in The fiRst PlaCe.“

For some reason disappointed, they tilt their head. „*That's it?“

„WhaT, 'tHat's It'? WhAt anSweR diD yoU exPecT?“

„*I mean, the two of you are meeting regularly...“

„FoR bUsiNeSs PurPosE.“

„*But you were together on the convention...“

„bEcAusE we WanTed to Go tO hiS hOme To wOrK oN soMethIng.“

„*I saw you from afar... You looked happy...“

„LeT me rEmiNd yOu tHat ouR aRgumEnt sTilL hAppEneD.“

„*But when you were trapped, didn't you get a chance to talk to one another...? Did nothing come out of it?“

Error hesitates. „He StrAnGlEd mE.“

„*...Somehow, I believe you did the same thing to him at some point.“

...That is actually true. He remembers their first encounter again. And despite everything, Ink still happily agreed to work together with him. Just another proof that something must be not quite right with the dumbass's brain. But... would Ink want to continue even after that incident? Any sane person would drop out at this point and maybe Error should too, just for the sake of his nerves.

It would be the most reasonable decision, after all.

…

Reason... Has curiosity ever cared for something like reason? Yes, why should Error give up everything now? Why should he let himself be stopped by the Squid? He wants to find out the truth and he made a break for too long.

He will solve this puzzle because after all, nothing is a match for the Destroyer's curiosity.

...Funnily enough, he would not even think this way right now, filled with determination, if he had never met Ink on that one day. Heh, of course it also had to happen in an idiotic way by him bumping into Error. And then staring at him with the same goofy expression as always.

„*...Are you thinking of something funny?“ Frisk asks.

„hM? Why?“

„*Because you're smiling.“

As if he has not noticed it himself all this time, the glitch blinks in confusion. „...iT's NotHinG.“

***

More time has passed and Error is getting restless. At some point he stood up and has started walking up and down, impatiently. What is taking them so long with the Squid? The Destroyer has some plans too for today: like sleeping. Grumbling by himself, he walks towards the table standing across of the bench. Some careless idiot has left his lunchbox with a chocolate bar on top of it, so Error grabs the sweet in order to cool down his nerves.

„*Um, it's not yours,“ Frisk remarks softly.

„AnD?“

Seriously now: It was #5 who has dragged Error to this place and now he is letting him wait for Æther knows how long. Why did he even give in so easily? He should have just went straight home instead of wasting his time here. Angrily, Error spits out the wrapping. It seems as if he has to have a word or two with that scientist.

The moment Error reaches the door behind which Sci vanished previously, he abruptly stops again. Right, Ink is in that room too. So... how would he react now if he saw Error? Sci claimed he would not be in the mood to talk. Why should he even bother? Really, Ink could react any way he wants to and Error would not care, even if he were-

...What is that sound?

When Error notices that the door is not fully closed, he grabs the handle and carefully opens it just enough to peek inside.

„Eh, maybe you should take a bit from the white one,“ Sci suggests in a worried tone. „I think you exaggerated with the blue...“

„Should've paid more attention and stopped 'im,“ Red mumbles.

...Is Error hearing crying? Both skeletons are blocking the view, so he cannot see Ink's expression.

„It's no one's fault, really,“ Sci assures and pats Ink's shoulder. „But... I guess if this is the way you think you should feel right now, then just let it all out.“

When they finally move enough so Error can catch a sight of Ink...

...he recoils immediately.

What? Why? This does not make any sense. No wait, there is no need to care about that; it is not Error's fault after all. Ink was the one choosing to feel this way. God damn it, the voices are causing a riot again. Is there some kind of conspiracy going on against Error?! Why does everything has to be so. Damn. CoNfUsInG.

After Error has taken several slow steps back, he suddenly turns around swiftly and heads towards the exit.

„*Where are you going?“ Frisk questions, but does not receive an answer.

There are things Error can deal with: Ink on a high red paint dose, his demon-like face on black, but that one? Nope. He sure as hell cannot handle that kind of stuff.

Stupid. Just... everything.

***

Frisk

After some time Sci comes out of the room, looking around him. „Where is Error?“

„*He suddenly left,“ Frisk explains.

„Seriously? What an absolute-“ He is about to curse, but cuts himself off and sighs. „Well, I should've guessed he would get impatient after a while. I just call him later.“

„*How's Ink doing?“

„Resting now. I think he'll stay for a while here,“ Sci replies before proudly patting the kid's head. „He's lucky he has a friend like you. You can leave now if you want to because I think he will be sleeping for longer.“

„*I also wanted to ask if you could help me...,“ Frisk mentions, fishing something out of their pocket and holding it up.

„What about it?“ Sci asks curiously as he takes the tissue to study it.

„*I was wondering if you could... examine it and tell me what it is.“

„You mean that stain, right? Where did you get that from?“

„*...It was coming out of a friend's eye.“

Upon hearing that, the skeleton's expression gets serious. „Oh. Was your friend at a doctor already?“

„*Not yet.“ They knit their brow. „*I think he'll visit one, but knowing him, he'll probably delay it anyway...“

„I understand. Well, I can see if I can find out something, but I can't tell you how long it'll take because there are also some other things I have to do,“ Sci agrees, smiling at them encouragingly.

„*Thanks...“

„No problem.“ Looking at the clock on the wall nearby, Sci determines, „So in case you want to leave now, you better hurry so you can catch the bu-“

„Okay, so in hell ate my chocolate?!“ Red cries out angrily, holding its wrapping up. When he notices it is still wet, he immediately drops it in disgust.

Upon realizing who the culprit may be, Sci groans, rubbing his face. „Still not enough coffee.“

***

„*Sans?“

„*yup?“

„*Has Ink texted you lately or something?“

„*he's sending me a message now and then, but doesn't seem so talkative,“ Sans answers, currently tinkering on some kind of motor.

„*Mmh,“ Frisk hums next to him, their chin lying on the table as they are looking at the screen of their mettaphon. „*He's not writing me that much either...“

„*guess even someone like him needs a break after such an incident. still hard to imagine all of that happened, but at least ink's okay now, and hey, maybe he has learned his lesson to not engage with someone like the destroyer.“

„*But I actually wanted them to get along,“ they kid object, pouting.

„*not everyone can be compatible with anyone. nice way of thinking, kid, really, but it's better for ink if he stays far away from him.“

„*If I was thinking like that, then humans and monsters would still be divided,“ Frisk counters with a glint of determination.

Sans stops and scratches his cheek with the wrench he is holding. „*eh, dunno if these two things are comparable with one another.“

„*Frisky, I think the comedian is actually right for once,“ Chara cuts in, floating in front of them. „*Just don't think too much about those two squabblers. They're not worth it.“

„*...You too?“ Frisk mumbles discontently, which causes Sans to look at them quizzically for a moment.

„*wait, are they agreeing with me right now? wow, the world must have gotten crazy then.“

While the skeleton is chuckling, the kid stands up to aimlessly walk around the workshop, thinking. Three days have passed since Ink and Error have been rescued and Frisk cannot help but wonder how things will go from now on. Even if they get along once more and forget about their argument, who is to say this will not repeat itself again and again until one of them or both actually... well.

„*hey, kiddo?“ Sans, who has turned around on his stool to face them, calls out, „*why not leave the stale place here and go out for a while? get some fresh air? ya could also hang out with some other kids out there.“

„*It's okay, I'm fine,“ they murmur, lost in thoughts.

„*eh, 'kay. was just thinking you're making yourself crazy in here, that's all.“

Both the Creator and the Destroyer are complete opposites, but there still are certain things they share with each other: not only the dreams, but they must have formed some kind of connection by now, right? It is still developing at least. Maybe they just need more things to share in order to strengthen this connection. It can be anything: a favorite movie, fun activities or hobbies, a place where they can spend time with or even a certain item or present-

…

„*Oooh, I know this face: Frisky is getting an idea~,“ Chara remarks, giggling.

„*Hey, Sans? Where did you put your projector? Uh, do you still have it?“ Frisk requests, getting the inventor's attention again.

„*somewhere on the shelf behind a blanket,“ Sans responds, then adds ruefully, „*i'm sorry i didn't bring it to the convention although you liked it. it's just... too unfinished.“

„*It's okay. I wouldn't want you to feel uncomfortable about it.“ When they spot the machine, they inquire, „*Uh, do you still need it for something?“

„*hm, not really. just couldn't bring myself to discard it, heh,“ Sans explains, looking suddenly so bittersweet about this. „*ya wanna have it? is that the reason why ya're asking?“

Frisk nods. „*If that's okay with you.“

„*'course, why not?“ he agrees, shrugging casually. „*have fun with it. oh, and in case it's not working properly anymore, ya can bring it back and i'll fix it for you.“

„*Thanks.“ Smiling happily, they take the projector.

***

On the next day, the time has come to visit Ink and see how he is doing. With the projector being stored in their backpack and also holding Flowey in one arm, there is quite the heavy luggage to bear, but they stay determined nonetheless. When they enter his shop, the artist looks up from behind his counter and smiles. „Hey there,“ he calls out.

„*Hey,“ Frisk greets back and comes closer. At first glance, Ink seems to be in good spirits as always. Staring at the paper he is currently drawing on, they notice that there are several unfinished sketches of random things that seem to have nothing to do with each other. „*How are you doing?“ they inquire.

„Quite good I'd say,“ Ink responds as he continues drawing.

„*Have you spoken with Error yet?“

„Nope.“ He chuckles a bit. „Uh, I feel like things have gotten awkward between us?“ When Frisk curiously tilts their head, Ink proceeds, „You know, like I wouldn't have a clue how to lead a conversation with him the way I usually do. Like, eh, some awkward pauses would occur. You know what I mean?“

Normally someone would give a key advice like, 'Relax, just be yourself and do not think about it too much'. However Frisk feels as if it would be irresponsible to give Ink, of all living beings on this planet, this kind of advice, so they decide against it. „*Is it because he saw you... like that? You know... emotionless.“

For a moment, Ink stops drawing. Shortly after, he continues while replying without losing his smile once, „Yeah, I guess that's it. It's probably weird, right? I think I'm wondering since some time now if this is weird or not.“

Growing annoyed, Flowey intervenes, „*The only weird thing here is that you even consider this to be weird. At least now I can see you as somewhat normal for feeling insecure about anything. Somewhat.“

„Oh wow, thanks!“ Ink responds, but then furrows his brow in confusion. „Wait, was that supposed to be a compliment?“

„*...Cancel the last part I said,“ Flowey mumbles, then turns to the kid. „*Do you see the reason now why I don't like to engage with idiots like him? He actively hurts my brain.“

„*It would fit if he were a clown in his past life~,“ Chara comments, giggling.

„*So... I think you should give Error some time. He may be thinking the same way as you right now...,“ Frisk suggests. „*And you could use the break too until, uh, you feel less awkward about it...“

„I'm also wondering if Error is finally fed up with me.“ Drawing thoughtless circles, Ink explains, „I remember him being angry at me when we were trapped, then the memory is getting a bit fuzzy after that.“

„*I got a chance to talk with him for a bit... and he didn't seem that angry as you might think.“

„*At best annoyed,“ Gearey adds.

„Wow, are we talking about the same Error here?“ he questions as his green swirly eyelights are reflecting his surprise.

„*I also have something for you,“ Frisk mentions before finally taking out the projector and putting it on the table. „*Sans made this, but he didn't want it anymore, so he gave it to me.“

After pressing the button, the familiar stars appear on the walls. Although they are not that visible since it is bright outside, Ink stares at them with child-like fascination nevertheless.

„*I thought you could show it to Error... or... maybe even gift it if you think he'll accept it.“

„Woah, that's a cool thingy!“ Ink exclaims. When he tries the other buttons and watches the colors change, his eyes shine brighter. „Yeah, he will totally like that one! I think it may even get him to appreciate inventions a bit more!“

„*Are you kidding me? This is the very reason why he got furious in the first place!“ Flowey snarls (and looks like he would smack himself if he had any arms).

„*Yeah... better don't concentrate on that aspect,“ Frisk agrees, nodding nervously. „*Just see it as... improving your relationship. Getting to understand each other better.“

„Yeah, I think you're right. Sounds good to me~“ Humming, Ink takes one sleeve of his new scarf and a pen. „I'll better write it down, just to be sure~“

„*...And don't forget to give him time,“ Frisk mentions firmly.

„Yup, noted.“

„*And be careful with the projector.“

„Yeah, super careful.“

„*Also less of a clown this time~,“ Chara adds.

„*Start being smart for once,“ Flowey suggests.

„Sure thing,“ Ink murmurs while writing it down too. When he is finished, he looks at the kid and the flower with his usual happy starry eyes. „Thanks for that! I can't wait to give it to him!“

Giggling at the sight, Frisk recommends, „*Maybe you should look this way too when you're gifting him that.“

„Huh? Why?“

„*Just... having a feeling that he may like it.“ At last, they attempt to leave his store. „*I better get going then...“

„Okay, greet Sans for me!“ the artist calls out, waving them goodbye in an enthusiastic manner.

When the three of them are outside on the streets again where the cloudless sky is shining a bright blue, Frisk murmurs with a deadpan, „*...Now I'm actually a bit afraid.“

„*So soon?“ Flowey questions.

„*Error has just... some erratic mood swings at times. I hope he will actually accept it.“

„*Now it's too late anyways, right?“ Chara cuts in while happily jumping from one zebra crossing to the other. „*So lean back and enjoy the show~“

„*Gearey... would you consider to watch over them for me again?“ Frisk asks.

„*God, I'm too tired of them and their vandalism,“ Flowey responds.

„*Well, then just stop being a careless idiot and retreat before something happens~,“ Chara advises, warning hidden in their sweet voice.

„*I won't force you, of course,“ Frisk affirms. „*But I thought you may be still curious about them.“

Thinking about it for a while, he eventually sighs. „*Just... give me a break. I think I'll do it whenever I'm in the mood for it. I'm also not keen to enter a room with both of them in it. I'm traumatized enough by collapsing buildings.“

„*I'm fine with that. Thank you for your help.“ Frisk smiles at him.

„*...I never said I was doing this for you.“

„*Then for me~?“ Chara asks, fluttering their eyelashes at Flowey who begins to spin nervously.

Upon taking back control, Frisk determines, „*Let's go visit Sans again.“

„*Always the same old story,“ Flowey remarks.

„*Maybe we should let him help with the comedian's machine for once~?“ Chara suggests cheerfully.

„*Oh, never-“

„*Yes, and Chara will help too,“ Frisk interrupts.

„*Whaaaa-? I thought we were partners, Frisky!“ they whine playfully.

After laughing wholeheartedly at that, Frisk stays silent for a while, a bright smile still apparent on their face. „*You know, Gearey,“ they eventually say, „*not being able to see what comes next can be... very scary at times. But... it also can be exciting. And funny too.“

„*Hm, whatever you say.“

And so the three friends continue their way on Roadin.

***

Ink

During the next three days, Ink can barely tame his excitement. Whenever he spots the projector, he runs over to it to turn it on and watch the passing stars. Then the desire to just write a message to Glitchy immediately almost takes over, but the warning note on his scarf prevents him from doing so. However, it seems to get harder and harder every time and it certainly is not helping that Error is taking so long (seriously, how can patient people handle this kind of waiting? What is their secret?). Then there are moments in which Ink again thinks that Error is done with him for real... hopefully not.

One time on an unbusy afternoon (okay, basically every time of the day is not that busy), Ink is doing some inventory stuff in his shop to pass the time. As always, he is carrying several cartons at once with ease although it is relatively hard to see what is before him. All of a sudden his mettaphon, which is lying on top of a shelf, rings, so he automatically picks it up without checking beforehand who is calling him in the first place.

„Helloooo?“ Ink says as he is still balancing his goods.

„SerIouSly, dO yoUr gReEtiNgs haVe to SouNd tHat dUmB tOo?“

„Wha-“ Surprised by the voice on his phone, Ink gets careless for a moment and bumps with the cartons against the counter, causing him to fall backwards with a loud 'Yikes'.

„...wHat diD i JusT hEar?“ Error asks.

Picking up his mettaphon, which has landed next to Ink's head on the ground, he cheerfully replies, „Just me stumbling and falling dramatically~“

„HuH. So tHe uSuaL tHinG,“ the other replies, unimpressed.

„Uuuuuh.“

„WhaT?“

„I mean, I'm kinda baffled that you're calling me. Did you do that before? I can't remember,“ Ink explains as he tries to stand up and almost trips again in the process.

„I wAs mEssAgiNg yOu, buT yoU diDn'T aNsWer. I waSn'T in tHe mOoD to wAiT foR yOuR rEpLy, So I caLlEd InsTeaD.“

„Oops. I guess I forgot to check my messages,“ he notes and laughs at himself for that. „But wow, it's still surprising me.“

„DoN't geT uSeD to iT. NoRmaLlY i WoUld aVoiD to LisTen tO yoUr sHriLl vOicE wHenEveR i CaN.“

„My voice isn't that high!“ Ink protests firmly.

„tHe sAmE as WitH yOur BodY heIghT?“ While Ink is pouting like an insulted child a reasonable and normal-sized adult, Error is chuckling gloatingly. „WeLl, to gEt to tHe PoiNt,“ he says, but a silent break occurs before he hesitantly utters, „eH.“

So Ink was right: It would really come to an awkward situation like now. „Yes?“ he encourages him, curious about what he is going to say.

„So... dO yoU knOw of tHe hiGh hiLl in The ceNtruM of WatErfAlL?“

„Uh, I guess?“ Ink responds, scratching his head as he tries to recall his last visit there. „I think I have to look it up to remember it properly. Why?“

…

„...Error?“

…

„...eIghT pM,“ he mumbles almost non-audibly.

„Wh-“ Before Ink gets a chance to ask him, Error hangs up. Very confused by this, he stares at the screen of his phone until realization creeps in and makes his eyes go wide.

Has Error just... set up a meeting point? Not even at Ink's place but actually outside in public? Is this real life? Is he dreaming right now? After some moments of standing there, frozen up, Ink eventually takes his orange vial, being now in the mood to jump in excitement. During his attempt however, he bumps into the carton lying on the ground with his foot and falls over yet again.

Well, at least now he can tell that this is, in fact, not a dream.

***

Walking on a road in Waterfall, Ink wonders why he does not visit this area more often because there is so much that catches the eye: sparkling souvenirs that are being sold on the shopping promenade, small rivers radiating a cyan light, as well as the blue echo flowers in the parks; it is only natural that he keeps getting distracted by everything on his way, even by the rising steam of the local bathhouses. While Ink is eyeing a souvenir stand, his mettaphon rings all of a sudden.

„OkAy, sO whAt iN thE woRlD is TakiNg yOu so LonG?“ Error grumbles, possibly frowning right now.

„Hey, two calls in just one day. Are you sure you're Glitchy and not someone else?“ Ink questions, laughing.

„Are YoU diStraCteD by aLl tHe cRaP thEy'rE sElliNg hEre?“

Looking at some glittering stones, Ink innocently replies, „...No?“

„...tHeN whY aRe yoU sTariNg at The SoUvenIrS riGht nOw?“

Oh yeah, Error has his screen thingy ability. „Okay, I admit I got a bit distracted, but now I'm on my way again!“ And so Ink turns around in an enthusiastic manner and walks off.

„ThaT's thE wRonG dIrecTioN, sTupId.“

„Uh, I'm preeetty sure it's left.“

„ThEn wHy aRe yoU tUrniNg rIghT?“

„Oops.“

Error groans. Ink imagines that he is probably facepalming too! „OkaY, iT's No uSe; I apParEntLy hAve tO guIdE yoU beForE yOu eNd uP at thE eDge of The WorLd.“

„Okay then, tour guide Glitchy: Lead the way!“ he commands playfully.

As Ink continues his way, Error proceeds to tell him the directions so he keeps staying on the right path (more or less).

„You know, I think I've just got a cool idea,“ Ink mentions, his pupils turning into orange gears.

„sHouLd i Be aFraId?“

„So imagine an invention that can tell you the right way to go so you don't get lost anymore!“

„It AlrEadY eXiSts. It'S cAlLed a MaP.“

„No, not like that! Not everyone can read a map, so how about something like a device that can tell you the direction?!“

„A coMpaSs?“

„Nonono! Like a voice telling you the way like you're doing right now!“

„ThaT sOunDs inCreDiblY aNnoYinG. NoW tuRn riGhT.“ When Ink suddenly bursts out laughing, Glitchy questions, „WhaT's So fUnnY?“

„You just called yourself annoying!“ he replies, wiping away his tears of laughter.

„No, i Di- oH.“ Error becomes silent for a moment. „...tHis ConVerSatiOn neVeR toOk pLaCe.“

Even so, Ink keeps on laughing for a little while. More time passes.

„SquId.“

„Yeah?“

„I caN't TelL yoU wHerE to Go wHen yOu kEeP sTarIng at tHe sKy.“

„But it's super pretty right now!“ Ink protest as he continues to watch the orange colors of the sunset that are mixing beautifully with Waterfall's bright blue.

„...I gueSs So. BuT at thIs rAte yOu'Re gOinG tO bUmP inTo soMethInG agAin.“

When Ink looks straight ahead again, he abruptly stops before he could walk against the park bench. „Oh, that was a close one!“

„I doN't GeT it. HoW cAn an AirHeAd LikE yOu eveN sUrvIve fOr tHat lOng?“ Error asks, seriously puzzled about that. „ImAgiNe foR eXamPle On tHe dAy we meT, yoU wOulD'vE beEn bUstEd noT oNly bY me bUt aLsO by thE oTheR gUy wHo waS thErE wiTh mE; yoU woUlD bE deAd nOw.“

„Aaand still, I'm here!“ Ink exclaims merrily.

„YoUr lUcK is tOo suRreAl.“ Shortly after, he adds, „YoU pRobAblY didN't EveN cOnsiDeR tHat i MigHt hAve SeT uP a TraP foR yOu or SomEthiNg tO finIsH yOu oFf.“

„In public space? That would be an odd move.“

„I sTiLl cOulD.“

„Would you?“

„...nOt in The MooD.“ Then he says, „TurN lEft noW.“

After a while Ink inquires, „So is there a reason why you wanted to meet up here?“

Error stays silent.

„Did you want to talk about the dreams?“

„I'lL juSt tElL yOu wHen yOu'rE thEre. i beLieVe yoU'lL sEe thE hiLl anY moMeNt Now.“

„Yup, hard to miss,“ Ink comments as he looks up a bit to see it in full. Additionally he spots some old stone stairs on the side that are leading to the top of the hill.

„WeLl, i JusT tRuSt yOu eNougH tHat tHe rEsT of YouR BrAin CelLs wIlL fiGurE oUt on tHeiR oWn hoW tO wAlK sTraIghT aHeAd.“

„Got it~,“ Ink happily hums and turns right.

„WhaT thE hElL, sQuiD?!“ Error shouts in disbelief.

„Just kidding~! I'll see you then in a minute or so!“

„I hoPe sO,“ he grumbles and hangs up while Ink is already on his way, carrying the projector in a bag in his hand.

***

On the top of the hill, Error is sitting on a bench, his arms crossed and a slight frown on his face as he is watching the sky where the first stars are shining. Creeping up from behind through some bushes, Ink eventually reaches the grumpy skeleton and taps on his cylinder hat with his flat hand, saying, „Boop~“

Startled by this, Error swiftly turns around and upon seeing Ink waving at him with a goofy grin, his expression somewhat relaxes although it still remains disgruntled. „I sEe yOu'vE fOunD yOur aBnoRmaL-sIzEd pEn,“ he comments as he notices Penny on Ink's back.

„Yup, went back and searched for her for hours,“ Ink explains while placing his pen companion behind the bench before he sits down on the left side, putting his bag on the ground. Then he looks at Error with a gaze filled with expectation. „Soooo?“

„WhaT, 'So'?“

„Well, you invited me, so what do you want to talk about?“

„...bAsiCalLy, i WanTed To knOw iF aNy oF thE pReViOus eVenTs hAve cHanGed yOur OpiNioN aBouT oUr cOllAborAtiOn.“ Error glances at him strictly. „ThaT meAns iF yOu hAveN't foRgoTten thEm aLreAdy.“

„Nope, still in my head! Well, for the most part“ Ink assures, pointing at his skull. „And of course I still wanna work with you. Why shouldn't I?“

Huffing in disbelief, Error answers, „'WhY'? ThaT's-“ Before he can finish, he just stops in the middle of his sentence to sigh while his hand slides down his face. Surprisingly enough, a chuckle escapes him. „I actUalLy pRediCteD thAt noT eVen tHat CoUld maKe yOuR cOmMon SeNse wOrk fOr oNce. So yOu'Re noT rEseNtfuL aBouT anYthInG oR whAt?“

„Wellll, I guess I only work with you under one condition,“ Ink replies, cheekily watching Error's expression turn into curiosity. „I want an apology from you~“

„WhaT.“

„Yup, you heard right. After all, the bone in my shoulder kinda hurt and also some of the things you said.“ In actuality, Ink does not really care about receiving an apology or not, but it certainly is funny to see Error squirm at the mere thought of it. „Sooooo~?“

When he cringes, grinding his teeth and one of his eyes twitching, Ink has to try his best to withhold his laughter. Well, it is not like he would do this anyw-

„i-I'm...“

...Is Ink mishearing things right now?

„I'm... s-So...“

Oh. Oh stars.

„S-s-SoOo...“

No way this is happening.

„S-s-s-S-sS-ssS-S-s-S-s-s-sSs-“

...Normally you would expect Ink to say something like, 'Come on, one single apology will not hurt you', but it looks like Error is in actual physical pain while trying to force out these words, glitching and almost crashing. Hilarious!

„-rRy,“ he eventually utters as his tensed shoulders droop when relief kicks in.

„Huh, didn't quite get it. Can you repeat it?“ With that Error glitches again, causing Ink to laugh loudly. „Relax, I already understood you!“

„...WaS thAt eNouGh foR yOu?“

„Well, I didn't say I would accept your apology~“

„Oh, aRe yoU kiDdiNg mE?! WhaT eLse Do YoU wAnT?!“ Error snarls. „Is It moNey?!“

„Nope.“ After standing up from the bench and stepping in front of the other, Ink sneakily hides the item behind his back, waits a couple of moments so the tension rises and only then presents it proudly. „You have to accept this present first!“

Bewildered by that sudden action, Error stares at the bag at first before taking it very carefully. Looking inside, he asks, „WhAt'S thAt?“

„A thingy I got from a friend. I thought you may like it~“

„BuT wHat iS iT?“

„Well, you're going to find it out for yourself when you're at home! By the way, it works best when it's dark.“

Error narrows his eyes. Oh, it is his trademark 'I don't trust you' look. „Is tHiS suPpOsEd to bE a PrAnk?“

„Definitely not! I swear!“ Ink assures confidently. „Let's just agree that if you find out this is a prank, then we will cancel our truce again. And in case you don't like it, you can just give it back.“

„I juSt dOn'T unDerStanD wHy yoU woUld giFt soMethIng tO me. YoU musT haVe uLteRioR moTivEs aGaIn,“ Error answers, still watching him with distrust.

„Oooor maybe, this is just my way of apologizing.“

„wHy wOulD yOu eVen cAre AboUt thAt in thE fiRsT plAce?“ he questions, but upon looking at his vials, he averts his gaze. „HmPh.“

At last he places the bag before his feet and crosses his arms again, resulting in a happily humming Ink, who takes his prior seat again. It would be fun to make him say 'thank you' for that too but when an apology is already too much, then gratitude is probably going to make him explode into many glitchy pieces. (Geez, even Ink shows better manners in that regard.)

„I originally thought you would cancel our agreement,“ he mentions instead. „Just thought you might be creeped out by, uh-“

„-yOu hAviNg no SouL?“ Error interrupts. „WeLl, i Don'T caRe.“

„Even after, uh, seeing me like that?“ Ink asks reluctantly although his smile still remains.

After hesitating as well, Error explains, „I stiLl FinD yOur SoullEssNesS aBnoRmal aS heLl, bUt kNowiNg thAt Won'T cHanGe a ThiNg: yOu'Re stiLl gOinG tO crACk joKeS, tRip AgAin aNd agAiN liKe a BoneHeaD aNd aNnoY me tO no End.“

„Was that pun intented?“ Ink asks, snickering.

„hEh, pErhAps?“ Now slightly smirking himself, Error notices the other's thoughtful expression. „SomeThinG eLsE yOu waNt tO saY?“

„Uh, there's just another thing I was wondering about the whole time.“

„WhiCh iS?“

„When I asked Sci, he couldn't tell me anything, so I guess it's best if I just ask you directly.“ Ink's hand roams above the set of paints, in search for the right emotion to feel, and then picks the gray one on instinct, not quite understanding it himself. As the he looks at Error, he manages to take him aback with his expression showing worry. „So did I do something after I became emotionless?“

„...Like whAt?“

„Uh, I don't know. There are just some fuzzy images in my head, but I can't remember well.“ He chuckles at himself. „I know this probably doesn't make any sense. How am I supposed to do anything in that state?“

…

„...Error?“

„...No, yOu diDn'T do AnyThinG,“ he finally confirms.

„Yeah, thought so,“ Ink replies, nodding with a smile.

„TheRe's aLso a ThiNg i WantEd tO aSk.“

„Yup?“

Error seems to attempt to speak up, but stays silent as his gaze wanders between the paints and Ink's face. „ForGet iT. It'S noT thAt iMporTanT aNywaY,“ he says eventually.

When he turns his head towards the sky, Ink does the same, still wondering about the his question, but forgetting it shortly after. So... basically, everything has been said. Nevertheless, both of them are still sitting there, wordlessly.

„You could've written me a message or said everything over the phone instead of inviting me, couldn't you?“ Ink notes, but receives only funny mumbling as an answer. Well, he is probably not going to get Glitchy to admit here anything, knowing his stubbornness and all.

After a while, Error comments, „So aFteR aLl, yOur StalKinG fRieNds aCtuAllY saVed uS.“ Wow, is Mister Anti-Social really attempting something like a small talk? What a crazy day so far!

„Oh yeah, I actually forgot to ask them about that!“ Ink exclaims before his eyelights turn into hourglasses. „But it somehow confuses me...“

„WhaT exActLy?“

„According to Sci, Frisk apparently knew about my paints beforehand. But the strange thing is: I can't remember telling them about that at all. Or about Sci.“

„YoU fOrgeTtiNg soMethIng? UnbElieVaBle,“ Error remarks sarcastically, rolling his eyes.

„I mean, of course a couple of my friends know about that and Frisk and I are friends too, but I can't think of a situation where my past self would've told them that; hard topic for me, you know?“ Ink explains, knitting his brow. After some time of pondering, he shrugs it off. „Then I really just forgot it. Silly me, I guess.“

„'MorOn' is fAr moRe fiTtinG.“

„You can get more creative with the insults, you know!“

„We pRacTicAllY haD thAt tOpiC aLreAdy, sHortY.“

„...Yeah, 'moron' is better,“ Ink agrees nonchalantly, making the other laugh.

By now, the sky's color has changed into a dark blue and more stars are twinkling. On the left side of the hill's view, Hotland's factories blowing smoke into the air can be seen while Roadin is located on the right and in the middle far, far away the Ruins and the wall.

„Really a pretty sight,“ Ink states.

„MmH, thAt'S wHy i'M vIsiTinG thIs PlaCe ofTen,“ he answers.

„So how about we meet here more often?!“

„UrGh,“ Glitchy utters grumpily. Well, it is not a 'no' at least!

„Well, what would speak against it? You invited me here first, after all! So you should be okay with it!“

„...fInE,“ he murmurs.

„Cool, it's a promise then!“

„GoD, doN't maKe me ProMiSe tHat.“

„Why not?“

„it WouLd meAn I hAd tO acTuaLly KeEp iT.“

„Wow, that makes you almost a gentleman!“

„...'aLmoSt'?“

„C'mon, let's make it a promise!“ Ink requests as he folds his hands and his eyes become yellow stars. „Pretty pleeeease~?“

Error tries to avoid looking at the other while struggling for words. Well, even if it is not as Frisk said and Glitchy does not like his eyes like that, it at least has some kind of effect on him. Hard to tell which, though.

„...oKaY. I pRomiSe iT,“ Error agrees, seemingly less displeased this time.

Ink smiles brighter at that. „Okay, pro-“

Without any warning, some kind of familiar dizziness hits Ink, causing his head to spin.

Wow, Error and the stars: All of a sudden, he sees them double. But... it does not make sense; the second Error is wearing different clothes. Which one is his again? Huh, the giddiness is making him feel all funny...

„Wow, never thought you'd be the type of guy to keep promises!“

Why is Ink hearing his own voice? He is not speaking right now, is he?

„YoU thiNk i WoulDn'T be CaPabLe oF it, hUh?“

„Nah, never ever would I dare think that~“

No, Ink recognizes this overwhelming feeling: It is a déjà vu.

„wElL, i Bet I'm aT leAst beTter At it tHan yOu.“

A laugh. „Really now?“

„...Is ThiS a ChalLenGe?“

„Well, you interpreted it that way, not me.“

„yEah, Yeah, DoeSn't mAtTeR: I'll ShoW yoU i'M beTteR at iT thAn yOu, yoU'lL sEe.“

„Uh...“

„HeH, sUdDenLy nOt so cOnfiDenT in yOurSelF~?“

„Nah, that's not really it. Of course it sounds fun and all, but...“ A pause. „...I'm not sure if we have much time left. I mean... would be kinda lame to start and never actually finish.“

Silence.

„...wHaT? Do YoU acTuAlLy tHinK iT's goInG to End? YoU, of AlL pEoplE?“

„Uh, well-“

„TheN mY fiRsT pRomiSe wilL bE thAt iT's nOt gOinG to. YoUr tuRn noW.“

A pause. Then a snort. „Wait, are you serious?“

Incoherent grumble. „YouR tuRn, i SaiD.“

Loud laughter.

…

Ink blinks, checking his surroundings with deep confusion. He is still on the hill and the dizziness is gone.

What a bizarre experience. At the first moment, he was not even sure if this was reality or not. Are déjà vus really supposed to feel that intense? Looking at Error again, he-

…

He... looks confused as well. With widened eyes, he stares down at Ink. Speechless. Could it be... well, that would sound quite crazy... that he experienced the same thing just now? That would at least explain his bewildered expression that Ink is probably having too.

Anyway... what should they even do with the sudden information they have received from the vision, dream, déjà vu, whatever it exactly is now? What does it even mean?

***

Error

All the way back home, Error could not help but ponder. Even standing in his comfy living room, thoughts about that odd experience they had keep bothering him. Of course some of his past déjà vus felt as if they could have been from his dreams, but he never has had an ultimate proof for that. However, that vivid vision today... it has to mean something, also considering the fact that Ink saw and heard it too.

So not only dreams, but déjà vus too or what?

…

This is going to keep Error awake all night, is it not?

Sighing, he attempts to take off his coat, but notices the bag with the present again that he has placed on the floor. Maybe he should just... get it over with so he can quickly yell at Ink if it turns out to be a stupid prank of his and then go to bed? That sounds like an optimal plan, at least for a tired (and very curious) Error.

When he takes the device and puts it on the table behind his green couch, he remembers Ink saying that it works best when it is dark. Error rolls his eyes. If that does not sound suspicious, then he does not know either. However, his ability to judge clouded by his fatigue, he actually closes the curtains, but not entirely so small gaps where light is passing through still remain.

Glaring at the strange device from all sides, he tries to figure out what it could be. He is probably supposed to push a button, is he not? Will something jump out if Error does? Why is Ink making a mystery out of it in the first place?! What a weirdo.

...It is a bad idea, right?

…

Well... curiosity wins over reason every time, after all. Finally, Error presses a random button.

When it starts to flicker, he immediately recoils. But as soon as he processes the image of stars, wandering across his white walls, his floor, his ceiling, the whole room, he gets absolutely stunned. Even after standing there for a whole minute, Error expects some trick to come, but... nothing. Just stars.

So... Ink really meant it the moment he handed over the present? Ink? That annoying plague??? Or is he just trying to gain his trust so Error can be manipulated later?!

…

Frustratingly enough, the glitch cannot convince himself of his own logic this time. How can the Squid, who is mixing up left with right, is distracted by everything, is constantly running into trouble because of his own stupidity, be smart enough to manipulate anyone? ...He is even making himself cry or feel guilt, that is how stupid he really is.

Well... even if it turns out to be manipulation after all, there is no way Error is going to fall for it. So why not take advantage of this situation and accept his 'present' for now? With a confident grin, he flops down the couch, supporting the back of his head with his hands as he watches the stars on the ceiling go by. Eventually, he takes out his mettaphon.

Conversation with Abomination #3 (Squid)

i must say im impressed that device didnt explode or cause some other catastrophe. >

but heres a warning for you: presents are not enough for me to be twisted around your fingers. >

Putting down his phone, some of the voices start to get pesky again. Oh, what do they want now? ...No, Error can already guess it. With a sigh, he opens the conversation again. Later, the Destroyer will not admit that the following words were typed with unexpected ease:

Conversation with Abomination #3 (Squid)

thanks i guess. >

Only moments later, Error gets a message back.

...Why is Ink sending him a photo of a drawing of a cat, also one with a dumb expression like that? And why is it wearing a top hat?

***

Chapter Text

The City of Inventions and Freethinkers

***

Ink's Dreamlog #62-

[Proofread by the one and only Blue!]

Black eye sockets were staring at me reproachfully. „Well, Ink, I'm waiting for an apology,“ the gray-scaled child demanded, their arms folded and one finger tapping impatiently.

Isn't that an exciting start for a new chapter, Blue?!

[WITH SOMEONE BEING MYSTERIOUSLY MAD AT YOU? OF COURSE IT IS! AND REALISTIC TOO!! - Blue, a very proud proofreader]

„For what, again?“ I asked, pondering about all the possibilities, but ultimately coming to no conclusion.

„Oh, about that one little incident where you chased the Destroyer across several universes and left a swath of devastation behind you,“ Core explained, frowning.

„...Oh, yeah, that one,“ I said as I recalled the event. „I guess I kinda overdid it with the red?“

Huffing, they rummaged in one of their sockets until they found a small rock and threw it at my forehead. „Ouch,“ I responded on instinct.

„Can you imagine how many I had to evacuate because of that?! Hold yourself back next that time!“

„Aww, c'mon, you knew that and had plenty of time, right?“ I smiled encouragingly. „And you could've warned me beforehand!“

„I did. Eight. Times,“ Core stressed before angrily swinging their tiny fists at me. „And you still ran off and didn't listen!!!“

„Uh, then why bother if you could've seen that coming too? Is that even how it works?“ I inquired, and my head began to hurt when trying to think about it, so I gave up soon after. „Well, doesn't matter. Sometimes, it just gets a bit violent whenever Glitchy and I are fighting. Not much I can do about it.“

„Really now, oh great protector?“ Core commented sarcastically and started to walk off, so I followed them. „It really bugs me that guys like you are playing around like almighty gods while others have to suffer for it.“

„But the worlds have reset by now anyways, so I don't get why you're still angry at me,“ I answered in all honesty.

„Oh, not only at you. At the Destroyer too, of course.“ They sighed. „...I just wish I could help him. And that you two would get along.“

„I doubt this will ever happen.“ I chuckled.

„I learned that nothing is impossible,“ Core replied. „The creators', well, creativity taught me so.“

„Yeah, I know what you mean-“

Suddenly, they turned their head to look at me with a scowl. „Oh, even as 'the Creator' you haven't seen the things that I saw.“ They shivered as if some unpleasant thoughts entered their mind. „Seriously, what is wrong with them? Why are tentacles trending among the creators nowadays? That's so gross!“

[INK, MY FRIEND, SHOULD I BE WORRIED THAT YOU ARE DREAMING ABOUT TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN? - Blue, slightly bewildered]

„Well, if only I knew what's going in their heads!“ I answered, amused. „But that aside: Can you actually tell me how the future between Glitchy and me is looking like?“

Core stopped in their tracks. I watched them, confused by their abrupt silence, until they finally spoke, „...I have a general idea of what will happen, as well as alternative paths. However...“ An apparent shiver rolled down their spine as they were clutching one of their arms tightly. „...no matter how many millions of different steps I take, I always see the same outcome.“

„And what is that outcome?“

After staying silent for a couple of moments, Core started walking again, saying, „You don't need to know, at least not yet. You'd get sleepless nights otherwise.“

„Wow, sounds creepy, but now you made me curious!“ I responded, assuming that the tension might've been just my imagination.

„No way I'm telling you anything.“

„Yeah, thought so.“ Then I looked around at me, watching the glittering stars in wonder. „So what did you want to show me in Outertale?“

Suddenly Core sprinted ahead and hid behind a rock, gesturing to do the same. „I just wanted to open a certain path leading to the future.“

Confused by that, my eyes followed their finger, which was pointing at someone in the distance, someone who was sitting with their back turned towards us.

But upon closer inspection, I could determine that it was indeed Glitchy!

„Oh, is he going for a attack again?“ I asked, prepared to storm off, but Core stopped me.

„Not this time. He is here quite regularly,“ they explained calmly.

„And... what is he doing?“

„Stargazing.“

„Wait, really?!“ I cried out, taken aback.

„Pssh!“ they warned me.

While observing the Destroyer, the craziest thoughts entered my mind: Was he actually appreciating something about our multiverse? Perhaps even the aspect of us getting along was not as far-fetched as I had thought it would be? As my smile grew bigger at that revelation, I felt reassured that yes, maybe nothing was impossible after all.

„Well, you can go over to him. I can guarantee you that no fight will break out this time.“ When Core giggled in a strange manner, I watched them quizzically. „Have fun then~“

„Uh, okay, thanks,“ I said, already marching towards the other skeleton before they suddenly called out again, so I turned around.

„And stay appropriate,“ they insisted sternly.

„'Appropriate'? In what sense?“

„...You know in what sense.“

„No, not really...?“

At last, they pointed at their own eyes with two fingers and then at mine while slowly vanishing behind the boulder. What a weird kid, I thought, but shrugged it off anyway.

Finally I made my way towards Glitchy, grinning excitedly. How should I even greet him? The closer I came the louder the other's rumbling and curses became, making me wonder what he was even doing in the first place. I stopped when I was about two meters away from the Destroyer, who hadn't noticed me yet. After observing him for a whole minute, I eventually coughed, causing Glitchy to tense up immediately. He turned his head.

How funny, he was actually wearing his red glasses, but what surprised me even more was the fact that there were knitting materials or something alike on his lap. But I was probably mistaken anyway since the thought of the Destroyer knitting sounded way too silly to be true.

Well that aside: Glitchy's shocked expression really looked hilarious.

„Hi there,“ I casually greeted with a smile, glancing around me in search for a good first conversation topic. „Nice weather here, huh? I know it's space and all, but-“

In a flash, Glitchy opened a portal and vanished before I was able to process anything. I just stood there, frozen up.

Him acting like that out of distrust was the most plausible thing to assume, but wouldn't have been an attack more characteristic of him? No, was this a flustered reaction?! That option made me burst out laughing.

Despite everything, Glitchy never failed to surprise me!

I spun around and shouted towards the rock, „Well, did I do fine?!“

A gray hand emerged from behind, giving me a thumbs up. At the end, I stood there and watched the stars with a new sense of excitement. So if Core was right and Glitchy loved to stargaze here all the time... then I had found another spot to observe him from afar! Hooray!

[WE SHOULD REALLY TALK ABOUT YOUR UNHEALTHY STALKING TENDENCIES. BUT DO NOT WORRY! HELP IS ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU!!! - Blue, your friend and psychiatrist]

***

Chapter Text

The Case of Blueberry

***

One and a half years ago...

Blue

Once, someone asked the very adventurous question, „Hey Blueberry, what interesting occurrences have happened in that exciting life of yours?“ (actually no one did, not in that way at least, but let us invent a metaphorical person that posed that question). Of course there are a lot of stories to pick up from, starting with his epic battle against flames and chaos itself, trying to extinguish the threat caused by his friend Ink's clumsiness and inability to open eggs without summoning destruction upon all of us, and ending with Blue climbing up a mountain-high tree as quickly as possible in order to save a poor little kitten in distress (no one is supposed to know that Dream had to get both of them down afterwards).

However! The truly best kind of tale one can offer is neither a heroic battle against evil nor a noble rescue in Blue's humble opinion. No, what really strengthens the spirit is a good old story about a growing blossom of friendship! Self-evidently, it gets only more interesting when a camaraderie is developing in the most unusual place, in the most unusual situation and between the most unusual people you can ever imagine!

So about one and a half year ago, something rather unpleasant happened: Due to some kind of economical crisis in which Hotland had to suffer the most, the factory where Stretch was working at was threatened to be closed, very likely in the next upcoming months! Well as expected, his brother had not shown that much concern for this serious turn of events. „I'll just get another job,“ he had said with a carefree shrug, followed by a pun so annoying that Blue had actively blocked it out from his mind (thank him for that).

Apparently Stretch just did not understand or was too lazy to even try to understand how difficult it had become to find another workplace in those uncertain times, so naturally, Blue had decided to take the initiative in this tricky case, imagining it to be like a riddle he had to solve (oh, and this was one of his specialties too!). But how to operate when he was nothing more than a mere city guard in training at that time? Strictly speaking not even a city guard but a student. So he had been informing himself about where he could get help and had found out that the company 'Blue Strings' would be a good place to go to for that kind of issue.

After receiving an appointment and sitting, filled with anticipation, in the waiting area, Blue's name was finally called out, so he eagerly stood up, marching towards the door that led to the person in charge. When knocking heartily three times, a low growl could be heard from the other side (and Blue was sure there were a couple of curses too; what a filthy way of mistreating their language!). Quite confused by this, he stayed for a couple of moments, waiting for someone to invite him in.

Eventually he knocked again, only getting the same kind of rumbling as response. Well, perhaps the person inside just had a super sore throat or something similiar? Was this already Blue's cue to come in? Since he was on a totally important mission, he could not afford to wait any longer, so he decided to interpret this incoherent babble as an invitation and swung open the door.

„Greetings! I have an appointment today!“ Blue exclaimed, looking around in wonder as he appreciated the nice and clean office: blank white walls, a shiny floor and dustless shelves standing left and right, containing many, many folders. Although the lack of decorations made the room appear quite dull and, well, almost sad in a way, at least it was refreshing to see that there were still people out there who treasured proper tidiness.

At some point, Blue's gaze fell upon the black skeleton sitting on a desk at the other end of the room and immediately, his eyes widened in sheer surprise. What an incredible coincidence! That sir certainly looked exactly like Blue's imagination of the Destroyer character from Ink's stories! Had his friend taken inspiration from him? Well, then the artist surely would have mentioned that, right? Wowzers! If this truly was a coincidence, then Blue had to tell Ink about this fateful meeting later!

Apparently, the familiar figure observed tBlue with the same curious look for a while before sighing in a tired manner. „Oh GoD, i'm nOt meNtaLly PrePareD eNouGh foR thIs CraP,“ he mumbled unintelligibly.

Not being bothered by the other's foul mood at all, the diligent skeleton walked towards him with big steps and, standing now in front of the table, reached out his hand to him. „Blueberry is my name! It is a pleasure meeting you!“ he greeted with a wide smile.

However Error, that was the good sir's name by the way, did not move an inch and instead kept staring at the hand with the similiar kind of disgust Blue looked whenever his brother left dirty laundry lying around on the floor. It felt... quite unpleasant, to say the least, to be the one receiving that look. „I'm noT thE tYpE to ShaKe hAndS,“ Error determined.

„Well, that is not a problem at all!“ Blue answered, as this surely was not enough to ruin his good mood. While sitting down on the chair across from the grumpy office man, he now came to notice the dark shadows beneath Error's eyes and his slightly hazy gaze as if he had not gotten enough sleep lately.

„OkaY, leT's GeT thIs OveR wiTh: So whAt dO yOu wAnT?“ he asked, obviously not very enthusiastic.

„So I came here today because the factory where my brother is working will be very likely closed in the near future and I hoped there would be a possibility to handle this problem,“ Blue explained.

„Are YoU woRkiNg thErE tOo?“

„Oh, no, I do not. I'm actually visiting an academy to become a city guard,“ he elaborated proudly.

Error raised his bonebrows in surprise before frowning again. „TheN whY arE yOu evEn heRe?“

„Well, like I said: It is a matter concering my brother, after all!“

„No, i MeaN-“ He stopped himself for a moment so he can sigh in annoyance once more. „LoOk, nOrmAlly, tHe fActory diRectOr or oNe oF hiS rEprEsenTatiVes cOmEs pErsOnaLly tO mE to diScuSs aLl thE deTaiLs aNd neGotiAte tHe cOntrAct AnD suCh, sO yOu, sOme rAndOm rElaTivE of A raNdOm wOrkEr cAn bAsiCalLy aCcomPlisH noThiNg iN tHiS siTuaTioN.“

„I, uh, kind of thought so,“ Blue confessed while looking down at his twirling thumbs.

„TheN yoU caN leA-“

„However!!“ he interrupted, the sudden outburst making Error flinch. „Staying at home and doing nothing will not change a thing all the more! So I rather take the matter into my own hands and try to do something! Well, that is at least my motto. Mweheheheheheh!“

„eH,“ he uttered as he watched Blue, whose positive vibes almost seemed to create a visibly bright aura around him (Error being fascinated and disturbed by that at the same time).

„So is there perhaps a chance that you could at least look into it and see if you can do anything?“ Blue inquired, staring at the other with expectation. „Please?“

After thinking about it silently for some time, Error eventually rolled his eyes and stood up.

„What are you doing?“ Blue questioned.

„i'Ll loOk whETheR i AlreAdy hAvE a fiLe oF tHis FacToRy if ThaT iS goInG to MaKe yoU lEavE me AloNe,“ Error stated as he walked towards one of the shelves to his right.

„Wowzers, so you are really doing that?! Thanks!“ the other exclaimed, his eyes turning into happy blue stars.

„Yes, YeS, whAteVeR. JuSt tElL me tHe cOmpaNy's naMe alReaDy.“

„Oh, of course! 'SwingSwap' it is called!“

After looking at the cheerful Blue with a deadpan, Error turned around again to search for the right folder. „ThE nAmeS aRe gEttiNg DumBeR tOo,“ he murmured.

It took a couple of minutes, but finally he seemed to have found the right one and now turned the pages until he started reading a certain entry. „hOpeLesS,“ Error muttered while closing the folder and putting it back where it had been before.

Blue blinked in confusion. „Uh, come again?“

„TheRe'S nO poInT iN inVesTinG a SinGle G in TheM, sO i'M goInG to StaY oUt of ThaT iSsuE,“ he explained nonchalantly while taking his prior seat again.

„R-Really? There is nothing that can be done?“

„In tHeOry yEs, i CouLd dO somEthiNg.“ Snickering, Error added, „BuT tEll mE a ReAsoN whY i shOulD.“

„Eh, it would help the employees??“

„AnD i WouLd GaIn wHaT bY doInG thAt?“ he asked, proceeding with his paperwork that had been lying on his desk.

„I am afraid I do not understand what you mean?“ Blue replied with an irritated expression. „It would help others, after all-“

To his surprise, Error laughed again. „Do i LooK liKe cHariTy foR yOu oR whAt? TheRe iS noT muCh pRofiT i CaN gEt fRoM thAt aNd aLsO: tHey'Re pRoDucInG gArbAge AnyWay, sO leTtiNg tHeM gOinG bAnkRuPt wOuLd aCtuAllY bE a huGe fAvoR foR thE cItY.“ Glancing up from his papers, he caught sight of Blue's upset expression. „Is sOmetHinG eLse The MatTer? If nOt, tHen LeAve. I haVe wOrK to Do.“

Blue wished to protest, but which arguments to use if appealing to compassion did not work and with him having no knowledge about economics whatsoever to persuade him in some way? So at the end, he stayed silent.

„WeLl?“ Error said, the impatient tone in his voice startling the other.

„N-No, that was all,“ Blue responded as he stood up. „Thank you very much for your time...“

Error did not answer but gave a silent nod as a sign of acknowledgement. Normally Blue would reach out his hand again, simply out of habit. However when he remembered Error's look he had given him before, he decided against it.

„Well then, I wish you a good day.“ The last thing Blue saw after he had opened the door, stepped out of the room and was about to close it, was Error fiddling around on... some kind of floating screen? However, it vanished soon after and when he glared at the small skeleton, he quickly closed the door. Well, this was a failed mission for sure.

...No, there was no need to give up just now! After all, there were still plenty of alternatives left! There was still hope! How could a single failure be enough to defeat the Magnificent Blue?! That would be ridiculous! No, in times like these, you should always keep a cool head and most importantly: smiling confidently!!! Laughing right in the evil's face!

Mweheheheheheheheheheheheheh!!!

***

...As it turned out, Blue had not been able to find help in different places. Well, although some others would be willing to help, they could not afford it, unfortunately. So... seemingly, the only one who was capable of changing something was Error... but he did not want to.

However! Blue was not going to throw in the towel just yet! Perhaps he had just chosen the wrong day to interact with Error since he had seemed quite tired and overworked at the time, so of course he would have been in a sour mood! Besides, he might have changed his mind by now, so why not try again with a second visit? It would not hurt, so thought the optimistic skeleton.

Also with Error being exhausted, Blue had decided to not tell Ink about him just yet; knowing the artist, he certainly would be interested in meeting the glitch in person, but, well, not everyone could keep up with Ink's... special... mannerism (not even someone as eloquent as Blue could describe his friend's oddity)??? Therefore, the wisest course of action: keeping it to himself for now, for Error's sake.

At last, Blue entered the office for the second time.

„YoU aGaiN,“ Error grumbled upon seeing his visitor, the pile of paper next to him having grown in the meantime.

„I am very sorry for disturbing you, but I just do not know whom else I can ask for help,“ Blue explained while approaching the dark skeleton who gestured him to hold on.

„StaY thErE, nO nEed foR yOu to sIt doWn,“ Error demanded firmly. „iF iT's aBoUt ThE oNe tHiNg foR whIcH yOu wEre HerE lAsT tiMe, tHeN yOu cAn leAve AgaIn beCauSe my deCisIoN sTaYs tHe sAme.“

„But is there not a way to change your opinion on this??“ Blue asked, his gaze filled with hope once more.

„yEaH, gOoD luCk wiTh tHaT,“ he replied halfheartedly (Blue was smelling sarcasm here!!). „Do You KnoW whY yOu nOrmAlLy dOn'T geT tO sEe fAmiliAr fAceS iN thE wAitiNg aReA heRe?“

„Uh, well-“

„BeCauSe mOst PeoPle aRe sMarT enOuGh tO uNderStanD tHat I'm nOt kNowN foR cHanGinG my MinD, sO tHeY dOn't ComE bAcK a seConD tImE,“ Error interrupted quickly.

„But! Certainly, there must be shred of empathy in you??“

„EveN iF i CarEd: thErE aRe tOnS anD toNs oF fActOriEs oUt tHeRe wHiCh ArE shAriNg tHe sAme FatE. YoUrs iS oNly oNe of MaNy, wHaT maKeS it EvEn sPecIaL?“ Error elaborated, being too occupied with his work to look even look at Blue. „OnLy beCaUsE yoUr BroThEr wOrKs in TheRe, riGhT? OthErWisE, yoU'd CarE jUst As MuCh aS i Do nOw, so YoU cErTaiNly cAn UndeRstAnd My lAcK of InveStmEnT in ThiS siTuaTioN.“

„Of course it is not only about my brother; I would feel sad for the other employees too,“ Blue spoke with a voice much quieter than usual, but still clear and confident. „And it would be nice if there were a possibility to help everyone, but I know it is not realistic, sure. However, doing a good deed and help at least one of them is better than none, right?“

„Hm, I gUeSs So,“ Error commented before letting out a chuckle. „hOw sAd I'm nOt gOiNg tO liFt a SinGle fIngEr to ChaNge ThiNgS, riGhT~?“

„But-!“

„LiSten hErE,“ he demanded as he stood up, his glare making Blue recoil. „EvEn iF yoU cAmE bAcK a tHouSanD tiMeS anD bEgGeD mE oN yoUr kNeEs, I wIlL nOt. GiVe. A sInGlE. DamN.“ Error sat down again. „DoN't yoU HaVe a ScHoOl tO viSiT, yOu wAnNabE gUaRd?“

Naturally Blue gasped in shock upon hearing these frivolous words before angrily pouting at Error. „Well, I will accept that challenge of yours! You will see: No one is able to resist the great persuasive techniques of the Magnificent Blue!!!“

„WhaTevEr, jusT cLoSe tHe dOoR bEhiNd yOu wHen YoU leAve,“ Error answered, sounding and looking unimpressed.

„I shall return!!!“ he announced, opened the door dramatically and left the room.

…

However, he went back upon realizing he had forgotten to close the door.

After that Error sighed in relief, being happy to be alone again.

…

„...wAiT a MiNutE,“ he mumbled by himself, „i DiDn't jUsT rEaLly cHalLenGe Him tO cOme BaCk, Did I? HoW tHe hElL diD he eVeN maNagE tO inTerPreT my WorDs tHat wAy?!“

Somewhere in the back of his mind, the voices snickered at him.

***

Once more, the door was basically smashed open by Blue's endless energy and enthusiasm. „Hello there, Er-“

„LeAvE me AloNe.“

„But-“

„My AnsWer Is sTiLl nO.“

„I-“

„If yOu dOn't lEaVe in tHe neXt tHreE sEcOndS, i'Ll tHroW yoU ouT oF thE wIndOw.“

„W-Well, as I can witness, you are not in the best mood to talk right now,“ Blue stated, sheepishly scratching his cheek. „But it is fine! Of course I will respect your boundaries and leave for now if you wish so!!“

„If yOu 'ResPecTed mY bOundAriEs', tHen YoU woUld stOp bOthEriNg mE aLtoGethEr,“ Error countered and drank from his cup of hot chocolate.

„Then why do I still keep getting appointments??“

„bEcaUse My sEcreTarY is aPpaRenTly inCompEteNt aS hElL. Now Go.“

„Well then, farewell!!!“ Blue answered, his hearty laughter echoing in the halls outside while Error was rolling his eyes.

***

After realizing that there was no place on his desk anymore, Error groaned and decided to take one of the piles of paper and put it on an empty space on the shelf for the time being. Very carefully he walked towards it, step by step, while watching that the pile did not accidentally-

„What a wonderful day today, would you not say so?!“ Blue exclaimed as he entered the room with a defeaning volume.

Shocked by that, all of the papers Error had carried were scattered on the floor as he flinched.

„Oh, how unfortunate! I am sorry!“ he lamented sincerely while the glitch stood there motionlessly. „Let me hel- eh.“

Slowly, Error turned his head towards the other as his red eyes practically burned in rage and his fingers were twitching as if he wanted to strangle someone very badly.

„...Although, I think I rather return to the academy; break is not forever, right?“ Blue whispered. After carefully closing the door again, he ran away as fast as possible when his fear and survival instinct kicked in.(He would apologize to Error later! Promise!!!)

***

„Oh My goD, wHy dOeS my SecRetAry kEep SenDing yOu baCk to Me wHeN i'M thE moSt oCcuPiEd?!“ Error shouted and this time, the piles of paper had multiplied as some of them were stacked on the ground. „I sHouLd jUsT fiRe heR!“

„Hey! She is a very fine and nice lady, mind you! She even shared her cookies with me!“ Blue objected and bit into one of the pastries before offering a different one to the frustrated office man. „Do you want some too?“

„OuT!“ Error screamed while throwing a pencil holder at the wall next to the small skeleton who got scared enough to (strategically) retreat for now.

***

„okAy, sO wHat ArE yOu tRyiNg tO do nOw?“

„You said once that even if I pleaded on my knees, you would not give in. Well! Here I am, testing out this theory!“ Blue explained as he knelt down on the floor before the desk. „Pretty please???“

„nO.“

„And if I stay like that for longer??“

„WhY sHouLd i AlLoW yoU tO do So?“ Error asked while rubbing one of his tired eyes. „aLthOugH... tHe sIghT lOoKs rIdiCuLoUs eNouGh to AmuSe mE aT lEasT a BiT. Huh.“

„So...?“

At last, he shrugged. „WhaTevEr, I dOn'T cAre As LonG aS yOu kEeP qUiEt aNd Don'T aNnoY mE.“

„Great!!“

Some time passed as Error was silently doing his work: going through some documents, signing stuff, basically the usual routine. However being lost in his activity, he did not check the time and forgot the world around him for a while until a quiet whimper brought him back to reality. Curiously, Error looked down at Blue and was baffled to see the small skeleton trembling, as well as the tears in the corners of his eyes. Then he glanced at the clock.

„WhaT tHe HelL?! YoU'vE beEn SerIoUsLy dOinG tHaT fOr aLmoSt tWo hOurS?!“ he exclaimed, struck by disbelief.

„T-Two hours are nothing for me! I can do even longer than that! Mweheheh...,“ Blue replied, putting on a smile and giving a shaky thumb up.

„OkAy, juSt sToP. I cAn'T stAnD crYinG iDioTs.“

„B-But it is really not a prob-“

„QuIt It!“ Error screamed, causing Blue to wince and take a far more comfortable sitting position. „YoU buRstInG iN noW aNd tHeN is One AnNoyInG tHinG, bUt i sUrE aS hElL woN't tOleRaTe soMe wHinY wImP cRyInG in mY oFfiCe bEcAusE hE iS a sTupId-“ He halted when the small skeleton started weeping. „WhY aRe YoU cRyInG eVeN mOrE nOw?!“

„B-Because you're yelling at me!“ Blue sobbed, trying to wipe away his tears.

Meanwhile Error's glitches multiplied as he helplessly looked around to find a quick solution to this. Then he seemed to recall something and rummaged in his trouser pocket until he found a piece of candy, which he threw at Blue's forehead. „NoW sToP iT! YoU'rE mAkInG mE iNsAnE hErE!“ he demanded loudly.

For a little while, Blue kept staring at the candy before putting it in his mouth. Contrary to Error's prediction, the big tears did not stop rolling down his cheeks. „I knew that your heart is not made of stone,“ Blue uttered while munching the sweet, being now moved to tears.

With that, Error crashed.

***

This time Blue knocked rather carefully at the door. Strangely enough, no answer came back, so he opened it after waiting for a bit. As it seemed, Error had fallen asleep on his desk, using his arms like a pillow and his head resting on them. Chuckling quietly at the sight, Blue entered the room, carefully closed the door behind him and tiptoed towards the chair. After he had taken his seat, he watched the sleeping Error with a rueful expression.

His almost daily visits had been going for a bit over a month now and only recently, Blue came to realize that he... well, might have acted quite obnoxious towards Error. The aspect of a challenge had gotten him carried away so much that he almost had not thought about the other's wellbeing although it was obvious how tired Error was. Blue's energetic nature... was quite annoying sometimes, right? Even someone like Ink would have been less exhausting than him in this situation... probably... maybe... eh, hard to tell.

However, of course Blue did not desire to give up entirely. But at the same time, he did not want to be a burden to Error, who was just doing his job. And annoying someone until he obeyed was not a very characteristic move that you would expect from a soon-to-be city guard!

„...You AgAin?“ Error grumbled groggily, distracting the trainee from his train of thoughts.

„Oh, I can leave if you like to be alone!“ Blue offered and was already about to stand up.

„...i Don'T cAre,“ he responded. „bUt iF yoU'rE gOinG to cRy aGaIn, TheN dO me tHe fAvoR aNd maInTaiN a MinImuM diStaNcE of 50 mEtErS.“

„Of course! I am quite good at guessing distances!“

„I diDn'T meAn iT liTerAl-“ He stopped and sighed. „YoU knoW whAt? Do WhAteVeR yoU waNt.“

Although Blue was still pondering about whether to stay or leave, he eventually spoke up, „Well, I have actually intended to give my apologies to you.“ Upon hearing that, Error started to observe him curiously. „I did not mean to bother you for so long. Sometimes I get a bit, well, too excited?? If you can call it that?? So in case I am annoying you too much, I will immediately stop with my visits!“

Originally Blue had expected him to accept this offer more than gladly, but he actually stayed silent. Apparently the exhaustion must have made him more sluggish!

„...As i SaiD: I dOn'T carE riGhT noW.“

„O-Okay then,“ Blue uttered. It would be best if he just left, right? Even though Error was too tired to judge in that moment, he would have thrown Blue out in any other situation, after all. But still, seeing the office man so completely exhausted like now... „May I give you an advice?“

„whAt?“

„Although I more than appreciate your work ethic, you should perhaps... well... take a vacation for once so you can rest properly.“

„WhY woUlD yoU sAy tHat?“ Error questioned while lifting his head.

„It is obvious you are exhausted!“ Blue answered, his voice becoming slightly strict.

„nO, tHiS dOeSn't mAke aNy sEnsE. If i sToPpeD woRkiNg For a WhiLe, yOur ChaNceS of Me sOlviNg yOur pRobLeM woUld deCreAsE tOo.“

„Well, I said before that I would stop my visits if you wish so.“

Error narrowed his eyes. „tHeN yOu'rE scHemiNg sOmetHing, aRen'T yoU?“

„Preposterous!!“ Blue cried out, again baffling the other. „That is the kind of trickery a villain would do, but I, as a fair city guard, do not have any ulterior motives against you!!“

„You'Re noT evEn a GuaRd yEt.“

„Yet! But this does not mean that I should not act as one now! Mweheh... heh...,“ Blue exclaimed before getting quieter all of a sudden. „Oh, I am sorry! I did not mean to get loud again!“

As Error sat up properly, observing the other suspiciously, he finally said, „I geT iT nOw.“

„What?“

„YoU'rE juSt dUmb.“

„Errrrr??“ Blue uttered in confusion.

„AnD yOu shOulDn't aCtuAllY cAre wHetHer i'M tiReD or NoT,“ Error added while proceeding with his paperwork again.

„This was... just a suggestion,“ he murmured.

...Should Blue leave now? Error had not said anything yet... So if it really was okay for him to stay here, then he could try to do... more conversation perhaps? It never hurt, right?

„Uh, it is really nice to see the spring sun again!“ Blue spoke again as he watched the rays of light shining through the gaps of the office's window blinds. „Say, what is your favorite season??“

For a moment Error looked at him silently, making the other nervous and unsure whether it had been dumb to ask. „I dOn'T caRe, as LoNg aS iT dOesN't rAiN.“

Hearing that, Blue's confidence slowly returned. „Then you must like the warm spring!“

„Hm,“ Error mumbled, who was not listening properly, but that did not bother Blue at all.

„Also! If you ask me, there is nothing better than getting a break from all the exhausting holidays that came before!“ he continued very enthusiastically. „Last Gyftmas was a disaster! Well, regarding the 'buying the presents' part. Oh, the hustle in the stores was worse than in the previous years, am I right?!“ When he received a quizzical look from Error, Blue hesitated for a moment before adding, „W-Well, just... typical holiday problems...“

„I dOn't dEaL wiTh ThaT kInD of CraP.“

„Oh, why so? Do you have something like a secret for present purchasing?!“

„I'm NoT buYinG pReSenTs iN thE fiRsT pLacE.“

„Oh?“ Blue answered, wearing a confused smile.

„WhaT?“ Error snarled.

„N-Nothing. May I know if you are celebrating holidays at all?“

„I'm NoT.“

„Not even with family or friends?“

„Don'T hAve Any.“ As he looked up again, he was surprised and irritated at the same by the kind of expression Blue had.

„That... sounds actually sad,“ he whispered, his gaze filled with pity.

„...wHy? You'Re wEirD,“ Error commented, seemingly unmoved by this. „nOw sToP giVinG mE thAt lOoK.“

Some silent moments passed.

„Um, I was wondering about something,“ Blue mentioned timidly. „That whole thing about your secretary being incompetent and all... is it actually true?“

„WhaT aRe yOu iMplYinG? ThAt i'M lEttIng You In vOluntAriLy?“

„Well, we are talking normally right now without you threatening me to kick me out and if you really wanted me to leave you alone for good, then you would have done something by now, right?“ Suddenly, Error stopped in his movements. „So I was wondering if you are maybe... feeling lonely?“

First he just wordlessly stared...

...before bursting out laughing.

„Wow, tHaT's a vEry FuNny JokE, aBomInaTioN!“ 'Abomination'?? What a weird kind of insult to use. Was that even meant to be one?? Or just for the sake of confusing Blue?? „So ThaT's wHy i'M aLloWinG yOu to ConStanTly AnNoy mE to No eNd, hUh?! RiDicuLoUs. If ThaT's thE beSt kInD of jOke You gOt foR mE, tHen I reCkoN yOu bEttEr lEavE sO i Can ConcEntRatE oN my wOrK.“

„That... that was no joke...,“ Blue protested weakly, unable to speak any louder since he feared hearing that would make Error angry again.

„ArE yoU tEstIng mY pAtiEnCe noW? LeAvE,“ he stressed as the good mood in his voice vanished as quickly as it came.

Reluctantly Blue stood up, looking back at the other for one last time before leaving the office.

***

A splendid idea had gotten into Blue's mind as he had been trying out a new recipe for his famous tacos: For his next visit, he could take his delicacy with him to share it with Error! So his last appointment had made him overthink his mission; it was not only about his brother's factory anymore! No, about Error too!! After all, how could Blue just stand there and watch him not only being tired and overworked but also without any friends? Perhaps this might be also the reason why Error was so... uh... mean sometimes.

However! A good and healthy friendship had always helped! If Blue managed to befriend the lonely glitch, then not only Error would profit from that! Blue would win a new friend too! Yes, everyone was going to win! Mweheheheh~

Carrying the food in his blue lunchbox, the very hyped skeleton set out to visit his future friend in his office as usual. However, before he could knock-

„WhAt ThE hElL aRe YoU tAlKiNg AbOuT?! No, I'm NoT iNtErEsTeD iN tHaT kInD oF cRaP!“

-he heard Error's voice roaring from behind the door. Wowzers, he seemed to be... especially angry today.

„If YoU'rE nOt PrEsEnTiNg SoMeThInG uSeFuL tO mE fOr OnCe, I sEe No ReAsOn FoR uS tO cOlLaBoRaTe AnYmOrE!“ A pause. „hOw'S a TeApOt WiTh HoLeS uSeFuL iN aNy WaY?! ElAbOrAtE!“

Since Error was probably talking with someone over his phone, Blue decided to wait meanwhile. But truly, it was worrisome how incredibly angry he sounded... How would he deal with him if he was like that?

After a moment of silence, Error growled, „No, I'm noT iNterEstEd iN yOu viSiTiNg me.“ Again, a pause. „'Why'? BeCaUsE tHeRe'S nO gOoD rEaSoN fOr tHaT! Do YoU eVeN kNoW wHy I pUt YoU oN tHe FoUrTh PlAcE oN mY aBoMiNaTiOn LiSt?! HuH?!“ … „wHy ShOuLd I wAnT tO dRiNk TeA wItH yOu, YoU sTuPiD-?!“

All of a sudden, Error let out an enraged scream before a loud bang could be heard, making Blue flinch.

Oh Æther... What should he do now? He glanced down at his lunchbox, pondering. Well, it surely was not a good idea to interact with him in that state, but... at least Blue could leave him the tacos here, right? They could help to make his day a bit better... Yes, that sounded like a decent plan.

…

Eh. Maybe Blue should wait a couple of minutes before he entered the room so Error had time to calm down.

…

…

…

Eventually, he hesitantly knocked.

„WhAt?!“ Error snarled, making Blue even more nervous. However, he opened the door and came in anyway.

The first thing hr noticed was probably the fact that some pieces of paper were not neatly sorted in a bigger stack as usual, but instead scattered on the floor, a couple of them even being crumpled or torn. Plus, looking down at the ground to his left, a mettaphon was lying around there. So this noise Blue had heard had come from the device being smashed against the wall? Oh boy.

„You'Ve cOme To An iNcoNvEnieNt tiMe,“ Error grumbled, sitting on his usual seat and frowning at his visitor. „yOu bEttEr LeAvE noW. I'm noT in tHe mOoD to DeaL wiTh You.“

„Uh, of course! But before I do so, I wanted to-“

Suddenly, Blue was interrupted by the other groaning in annoyance. „SerIouSly, yOuR stUpiD sHeNanIgAnS aRe tHe lAsT thInG i-“

„-give you this here!!“ Blue squealed while holding up his lunchbox.

As expected, Error got immediately dumbfounded by that! „WhaT?“ he asked, surprised.

„Well you know, I really like making tacos! And so I thought I could make some for you too!“ Blue explained merrily, slowly approaching the other. „Each of them has a different filling since I did not know which you would prefer, so you can tell me afterwards which one you liked most and I will take it into account for next time!! I hope you-“

Before he could finish his sentence, he felt strings wrapped around him.

„Eh-“ Blue uttered and could not comprehend the situation until Error pulled on the strings to make the trapped skeleton stumble forward who almost fell during the process. With Blue standing now in front of the desk, Error raised from his seat.

„Heh, I diDn'T thInK yOu'd Be tHaT cLevEr.“ A smirk had appeared on his face.

„Uuuh, I... guess you need a certain amount of cleverness when cooking??“ Blue answered, giving the other a clueless look. Error smiled, so it meant something good, right? Then why was he feeling so nervous all of a sudden?

„SiNcE aLl pRevIouS atTemPtS to wIn Me OveR hAve fAilEd, yOu tHouGht yoU cOulD cOnviNcE me WitH thAt? SaY, aBomInAtiOn...“ He titled his head. „dO i LooK liKe thE tYpE of PerSoN yOu cAn bRibE sO eAsiLy?“

Blue's eyes widened. „N-No, I did not mean to-!“

„Oh, AnD thAt lOoK of PiTy yOu gAvE mE wAs a PaRt oF yOur tActiC tOo, wAsN't it? As WeLl aS tHe wHolE bAbBlE aBouT lOnEliNeSs aNd wHat Not. HeH, oF coUrsE it Was, WhY do I eVen AsK? BeCauSe...“ As he tightened his grip, Blue's gaze was filled with fear. „...At thE eNd oF thE dAy, oF aLl oF yoU aRe thE sAme.“

„E-Error, that hurts-“

„FiLtHy BoOtLiCkErS.“

Only when the first whimpers could be heard, Error swung his arm, throwing Blue to the ground and simultaneously dissolving his magic. The small skeleton, being too shocked to move, remained there, his hands clinging to the blue box.

„lEaVe,“ Error demanded sternly while sitting down again.

„...I am s-sorry...,“ Blue whispered as he let go of the box and hesitantly put it on the ground. „I leave them here f-for you...“

„ArE yOu DeAf?! GeT lOsT!“

That outcry was enough for the other to jump up despite his shaking knees and run out the room while wiping away his tears.

***

Error

At this point, Error was basically smashing his head against the table's surface in the vain hope to shut down the voices. Why did everything have to be so damn annoying lately?!

Stupid work, stupid business partners, stupid clients!

Oh yes, a certain client especially; ever since that little abomination had left, he could not even concentrate on his paperwork anymore!

„YeS, i AlReAdY gEt iT!“ he shouted towards the ceiling. „I oVeRreActEd a BiT, so?! JuSt stOp ScrEamInG aT me fOr tHat cRap!“

However, the voices kept going.

„iN tHe eNd, iT's hIs FauLt fOr reTuRniNg! He ShoUld'Ve sEeN tHat cOmiNg, riGhT?!“

Shriek, shriek, shriek.

„Of CouRsE i WoulD AssUmE mAniPuLatIoN fRom His PaRt! Is TheRe AnY oTheR reAsOn wHy hE sHoUld...“ He looked at he lunchbox lying on the floor. „...Do thAt?“

Shriek.

„AftEr aLl, tHiS wOrLd iS fiLleD wiTh ScUm.“

…

Eventually he picked up the lunchbox with the help of his strings, staring at it for a couple of seconds before opening it with a frown. Seriously, why had Error allowed that abomination to bother him in the first place? Well, his initial thought had been to keep the contact so he could ask him about his dreams later... but actually, Error did not care about them anymore because only insomnia and stress came out of them. Really, even thinking about them now made his blood boil!

Error took the first taco and bit into it.

It was the fault of his tiredness that he acted way too soft towards the wannabe guard. Otherwise, he would have not even allowed him to visit a second time. Then a third. And a fourth. And so on. Blue was nothing more than a lucky bastard, that was all.

He took the second taco.

...No, this was not the sole reason. The dreams were to blame too, or rather a certain one that Error could not get out of his head: the two of them meeting, talking, then starting to see each other more often. (Seriously, how was his dream self able to keep up with him for that long?)

Sometimes the dreams truly seemed like a mirror to reality, and in the end, the events in the former were reflected in the latter. Come to think of it, their encounter had been unavoidable anyway. That would also mean that one day, Error would come to meet-

...Oh god. Better not thinking about that other plague with the starry eyes. That would only worsen his mood. If something like fate existed, then it was intentionally mocking Error. Absolutely.

He leaned back on his chair, sighing.

Well, whatever he thought or felt about Blue did not matter, actually. After all, Error did not intend to talk with him about the dreams anymore; he was done with that topic. Also, after what Error had done, Blue would not come back anymore either. So... that was that. Their chapter was closed and Error should be relieved.

…

There were no tacos left. They had been quite tasty, actually.

…

Perhaps a vacation was long overdue after all, huh.

***

Blue

„I don't understand why you still keep visiting him,“ Stretch said while lazily resting on the green armchair in their living room. (Even horizontally! How was that supposed to be comfortable??) „From what I've heard, he sounds like a selfish douchebag to me.“

„Language!!!“ Blue reminded him strictly. „But, well, I too must admit that he is at least... not the nicest person to be around with.“

„So why now?“ his brother questioned with a confused look. „If it's still about my job, you don't need to. I said I'd just find another one.“

That was... hard to explain. Indeed, Error was mean all the time, called him names, had some anger issues... Really, it was a challenge to point out even one positive trait about him off the top of his head. Plus, his last outburst actually had managed to make Blue doubt whether he should truly visit him again. He had been really scary...

However...

„I still find it sad that he is always so alone,“ Blue answered.

„Well, it's kinda his fault if he's always that prickly,“ Stretch countered, shrugging.

„Or that is the result of him feeling lonely all the time and not the other way around!“

„It's still not your obligation or anything to help him out.“

„You may be right,“ Blue admitted, but then folded his arms in a confident manner. „However! If I am not going to help him, who else will?! I cannot just adopt the careless attitude of looking away while others might suffer in silence! No, we should always reach out our hands to one another first, no matter whether they are friends, foes or some office man you randomly meet!“

„Hm, and do you think someone like him can change?“

„Why, yes! After all, as long as there is someone believing in you, anyone can become a better person!!!“ Blue exclaimed, ending his speech with a hearty 'Mweheheheheheh'.

Smiling as his posture became more relaxed, his brother commented, „Sounds cool coming from you, bro.“

„Well then, off I go!!“ Blue dramatically announced and, being spurred on by those words, quickly hit the road.

„Take care of yourself,“ Stretch called after him.

***

Despite the courageous speech Blue had given, the nervousness had suddenly returned as soon as he sat down in the familiar waiting room. It even increased a bit when his name was called out earlier than usual. Of course the very obvious question kept invading his mind: Was Error still angry? Then followed by: Was this a smart idea after all? Shaking his head, Blue tried to dispel his doubts. If he wanted to reach his goals, then determination and a confident smile were necessary!

...He just had to knock on the door again.

…

…

Eventually he did so, receiving, as always, a grumble as an answer.

Oh stars. Blue was too young to die.

As he opened the door cautiously however, he was surprised to witness the office being completely tidy again; the mountains of paper were no more. Also there was a small television standing on the desk while Error, leaned back on his chair, watched intently, grabbing some sweet snacks from a bowl nearby. Shortly after, he turned his gaze towards his visitor.

„W-Well, good day to you!“ Blue blurted out with a nervous super confident smile!!

The two of them exchanged some looks in silence.

„...ArE yoU gOinG to StaNd tHeRe fOr lOnG? SiT doWn aLreAdY,“ Error spoke up before getting a handful of sweets in his mouth.

„U-Um...?“ the other uttered, confused. Was this the first time the office man himself had offered him a seat?

Frowning, Error pointed impatiently at the chair across from him, so Blue obeyed. ...How awkward, this silent pause.

„I'm sUrPrIseD yOu AcTuaLly cAmE baCk,“ he mentioned as he kept watching the screen. „yOu'Re bOldEr tHaN i thOuGht. Or jUsT duMbeR, I dOn't KnoW.“

„And I am surprised as well that you allowed me to come in the first place,“ Blue replied, getting a grumpy look from the other. „Yes, yes, I know. 'Incompetent secretary', right?“

„...IndEeD,“ Error confirmed rather quietly, then sighed. „TheRe's A cOmmErciAl bReaK riGht nOw.“

„Okay...?“

„I'm BorEd. So AmuSe mE.“

„And how if I may ask??“

„DoN't kNow. JusT tAlK aBouT sOme RanDom sTuFf aS uSuAl.“

„Well then??“ What a strange (and kind of rude??) way to invite someone to a casual conversation, but this was at least something you could call 'progress', right? „So I can see that you look much more refreshed now! Did you take a break after all?“

„I diD,“ he said before staring sternly at Blue. „NoT beCaUsE of yOur sUgGesTioN, miNd yOu.“

„No matter the reason; I am glad you did! Staying healthy is important!!“

„oh God, You'rE rEmInDinG mE of sOme oTheR aNnoYinG guY i KnoW,“ Error mumbled. „AlwAys boTherIng mE on My pHoNe aNd giVinG me 'AdviCeS' beCauSe hE haS aPpArenTly nOthIng BetTer to dO.“

„Then you have a friend after all!“

Error snorted. „As iF! He'S juSt sUperViSinG mE beCauSe he FeaRs i MigHt dO soMetHing!“ Chuckling, he again took a handful af candies. „ThaT gliTcH sHouLd jUsT miNd hiS oWn buSinEsS.“

Curious. So there was someone caring about him, right? But why did he keep denying that others meant no harm to him? Was it not a sad lens to look through? To always judge others harshly first? Blue would like to explain it to Error, convince him to see things differently...

After a while Error's eyes suddenly gleamed, as the commercial apparently had ended. Then he glanced over to Blue while a thoughtful frown appeared on his face. „...moVe OveR.“

„Come again?“

…

„...You Can'T sEe tHe sCreEn liKe tHat, MorOn.“

...Oh. Well, what a surprise! Without further ado, Blue took his chair to place it at the side of the table since Error seemed like the type of guy who would like to have his distance, so he remained rather cautious in that case. As he recognized the current running series, he questioned, „Wait, is this a soap opera??“

„pRobLem wiTh thAt?“ Error responded grumpily (and sounding kind of insulted?).

„No, of course not! Uh, I was just surprised?“

„WhaTevEr. Now kEeP quIeT.“

The following half an hour felt quite... weird? New?? Undescribable??? Both of them just sat there and silently watched TV together. From time to time, Blue glanced at the other and noticed with how much attention Error followed the show; it was actually a bit funny. It would not even surprise him if the office man had forgotten about the other's presence entirely. Well, one way or another, it was not an unpleasant experience at all.

When the next commercial break started, Error spoke up, „I tHouGht I'd gEt a PhoNe cAll or A viSiT frOm tHe ciTy guArD or AnyThiNg. BuT i gUeSs yOu wEre juSt tOo sCarEd to TeLl tHem aBouT tHe laSt inCideNt.“

„Well, I did not tell anyone,“ Blue admitted. „B-But! I was certainly not scared!“

„You WeRe.“

„W-Well! Let me explain my reasoning regarding my decision!“ For a moment Blue became silent in order to think. „Whatever punishment you would have gotten for that, I somehow do not believe it would teach you anything or change you for the better.“

„You CouLd'vE aT leAsT gOttEn sOme CompEnsaTioN mOneY oUt of Me.“

„Money would never be the Magnificent Blue's intention!!“

„Heh, bUt YoU aLso diDn'T thInK of PaYbaCk fOr whAt i Did? TheN yOu rEaLly MusT bE scAreD-“

This time, Blue looked into the other's eyes to show his honesty. „I simply do not possess any kind of ill will towards you because I have already forgiven you.“ As Error did not dare to answer, he proceeded, „Since I am going to become a city guard in a few months, my task will be to keep the citizens on the right path and so I am starting with you now: by officially befriending you!!!“

At last Error was freed from his stiffness and, without any warning, started to laugh at the other. „OooOh, sO yoU'rE baSicAllY sUperVisiNg mE tOo, riGht?! AnD pRobaBly uSinG oUr liTtlE inCideNt tO blAcKmaIl mE in The fUtuRe, huH?!“

„What?! I am not-!“

„nOt eVeN sTarTed yeT anD aLreAdY cOrrUpt!“ While Blue was pouting, showing his endless disapproval, Error still could not stop laughing, even started to hit the table with his fist to calm himself down. „sAy, dO yoU wAnT sOme HusH mOnEy fRom Me Or wHat?!“

„No, thank you, sir! I am perfectly fine with a simple verbal apology from you!“

All of a sudden Error got silent, his face scrunching up as if someone had hit him in the stomach.

„Um, are you alright?“ Blue questioned.

Avoiding his gaze, he inquired reluctantly, „...Can I jUst gIve You HusH mOneY inSteAd?“

Profoundly irritated by that, Blue responded, „I, uh, no thanks??“

…

…

Slowly, Error moved the bowl of sweets towards Blue, who could not help but give him confused looks. „Um, why...?“

„...hUsh MonEy,“ he murmured. After Blue had stared at the candies for too long, not able to process reality for a moment, Error glared at him. „...Or dO yOu waNt aCtuAl mOneY afTer All?“

„Uuuuh, no. That is fine too, I guess?“

When Blue chose a random sweet, Error added, „No moRe tHan fiVe, thOuGh.“ Wowzers, he was also a stingy guy?

Some moments passed, the two of them munching their sweets while staring at the screen. Eventually Blue remarked, „You are just very bad at apologizing, or-?“

„QuiEt. ThE ePiSodE hAs StaRteD,“ Error interrupted quickly.

***

When the show ended after another half an hour, Error turned off the television. „I hAve To woRk nOw, so LeAve.“

„Um, would you mind if I kept on visiting you?“ Blue inquired hesitantly.

„WhaT aRe yOu sAyiNg? Of CourSe i WouLd.“ For a moment he knitted his brow upon hearing that, but then Error added, „ThAt wOulD mEaN i'm Not WinNinG 'tHe cHalLenGe'.“

It took some time for Blue to realize what the other had meant, his eyes widening in surprise. „Oh, I think so.“

„HeH, hAve yOu lOsT yOur SpiRiT or WhaT?“ Error mocked gleefully.

„Certainly no-“

„JusT sAy tHat yOu'vE gIveN uP. It hAs bEeN alReaDy ObvIoUs fRom The StaRt thAt a WeAkliNg liKe yOu wOuldn'T lAst lOnG~“

Blue raised from his seat, exclaiming firmly, „Of course I can do it!!“

„BeT yoU wOuLdn'T mAnaGe a SecOnD MonTh.“

„Oh, I could even do three if I wanted to!!!“

Both stared at each other wordlessly. Finally Error turned his attention towards his paperwork, saying, „As LonG aS yOu doN't boTheR me On sUndAys oR eVeniNgs.“

...What did just happen?

Well... the challenge went on, apparently.

„...Okay, then I wish you a good day.“

„HoLd oN, yOu lEft yOur sTuPid bOx hEre LasT tiMe,“ Error remarked after obtaining it from his desk's drawer.

Upon noticing how light it was, Blue opened it to check. „Oh my, you have actually eaten them?!“ he asked excitedly. „So? Did you like them??“

Error, who seemed visibly uncomfortable by the other's starry eyes, answered, „...GueSs theY weRe eDibLe.“

Despite the lack of enthusiasm in his voice, it was enough to make Blue practically vibrate with happiness (only achieving to disturb Error even more). „I am so, so glad! Mweheheheheheheheh!!!“ At last he jumped with big steps towards the door, waving at the other. „I wish you a very good day, dear office man!! I will bring more tacos for next time!!“

…

Being left alone again, the bewildered Error uttered, „...i JusT doOmEd mYsElf, Didn'T i?“ Leaning back on his chair, he pondered for a while. „...I gUeSs #15 iS sTiLl fReE.“

***

Two months had passed. On this very special day, the door was swung open in such an epic way that any theoretical witness of this memorable moment would tell their children and grandchildren about it. (It was also a miracle that the wall was still intact after that door smash.)

„Error!!!“ Blue cried out as the office man yelped at his sudden entrance.

„DidN't wE aGrEe tHat YoU'd sToP wiTh gIviNg mE a HeArT AttAcK?!“ he snarled, standing before one of the shelves and arranging his folders.

„Is it true what I have heard?!“ he asked, approaching the other in excitement.

„HoW shOulD i KnoW whAt yoU'vE hEarD?“

„The workplace of my brother does not have to close anymore!“ Smiling uncontrollably bright, Blue began to bounce. „You and your company accomplished this!!“

„Yes, I waS goInG to TeLl yoU aBouT thIs eVenTuAlLy,“ Error confirmed, nonchalant as he continued with his activity.

„But why all of a sudden?!“

„AfTeR hAvinG a Talk wiTh thEiR diRecTor, tHeY deCidEd to Try oUt aNothEr bUsiNeSs mOdeL aNd pRodUce sOmetHinG moRe uSefuL fOr onCe, so InveStinG in TheM suDdeNly dIdn'T seEmeD liKe a Bad iDeA aNymoRe,“ he explained and upon seeing Blue's super happy face, rolled his eyes. „I waS noT dOinG thIs oUt of tHe kIndNeSs of My HeArT oR aNythIng; I'm a BusInesSmAn fiRsT... WeLl, fOr moSt oF tHe tIme aCtuAlLy 'tHe dEstRoyEr'...“ Looking at his visitor again, he frowned. „...wHaT?“

„Can I hug you??“

„Do ThaT anD yOu'Ll suFfEr thE cOnseQueNceS.“

„Only briefly?“

„No.“

„Then a friendly handshake!“ As Blue offered his hand, Error automatically stepped back, looking at it with disgust once more.

However, when he thought he would not agree... „...nO moRe ThaN thReE secOndS.“

More than happy Blue took the other's hand and shook it firmly before releasing it again. Although Error looked quite displeased after that, it surely meant a lot for him that the office man had accepted it in the first place.

„Now ThaT yOu'vE wOn thE cHaLleNge, tHerE iS no rEasOn fOr yoU to BotHer Me AgAin, riGht?“ he asked as he walked back to his desk.

And just with one sentence, Blue's smile faltered. „Um, but I thought-“

„SavInG yOur BroTher'S woRkpLacE hAs bEeN yOur mAin GoaL aLl AloNg, aFteR aLl. Now You'Ve aChiEveD iT bEcaUse i Didn'T waNt to Be AnnOyeD by yOu anYmoRe. ConGraTs.“

„Y-Yes? But...“ 'I thought we have become friends.' Although Blue desired to say these words, they got stuck in his throat. So... he had been a burden for him after all? But why had Error allowed him then to visit him again and again? Out of boredom? That could not be...

„AlThouGh...,“ Error spoke up, getting Blue's attention again. „...i CouLd cHanGe mY oPiniOn aBouT my InveStmenT in tHat cOmpaNy aNy tIme.“

„Eh?“

„EcoNomY is ConStanTly cHanGinG aFter All. Or pErhAps, My moOd miGhT juSt rAndOmlY cHanGe oNe dAy aNd i diSsolVe tHe coNtrAct. AnyThinG cOulD hAppEn.“ Error shrugged. „TraGicAlly, tHerE woUld bE no One tHerE to StoP me.“

…

…

Oh.

„Then... would I be able to stop you?“ Blue suggested quizzically.

„Oh? ArE yoU prOpoSinG anOthEr cHalLengE?“

„W-Well, if this is what it takes to prevent this from happening...“ Slowly, he regained his determination as he put his hands on his hips. „...then I, the Magnificent Blue, will use my persuasive techniques once more to defeat you!!“

Error smirked. „HeH, i WouLd JusT eMbaRasS mySelF if I rEjeCteD tHat. And tHiS is The BesT wAy hoW i cAn geT mY rEveNge, afTer aLl. So deAl.“

„...You know what, Error?“

„hM?“

„This is probably the most roundabout way of asking someone, 'Would you like to hang out with me?' I have ever heard.“

„Don'T geT aLl tHat cOckY, #15,“ Error reminded him strictly. „YoU wOuLd'vE beEn tHroWn oUt of The BuiLdiNg aLreAdY if iT wAsn'T foR thAt cHallEngE oF yOurS. AnD i Don't WanT to hEar diFfeRenT cLaiMs.“

„Sure,“ Blue complied with a giggle.

„Now sIt dOwn, ThE sHow hAs aLreAdY sTarTed.“

„By the way, why '#15'? Is it like a special number for your club of friends or something??“

„You WiSh.“

But the tale of friendship shall not end at this point! No, even to this day, this story is getting written continously and hopefully, it will last a very, very long time!

„...Can I hug you now?“

„GoDdAmMiT, nO!“

***

So since then, Blue keeps visiting his glitchy office man friend although their meetings have become rare because there is not as much time as before after the trainee mastered his exam and has begun to be a part of a city guard's daily work life. However, it has made him happy when he received a message from Error yesterday, which said to come visit him at his home. Just... wowzers! It has always been his office, so something must have happened to relocate it to his own home! By Error's standards, it is a huge display of trust!

After happily ringing the bell, the good old office man opens the door a few moments later.

„Good evening to you, Er-“

Something that catches his eye makes Blue stop in the middle of his sentence. Behind Error he sees Ink, who is bouncing and cheerfully waving at Blue. At first he gasps in shock as he points at the artist and then the excitement simply overtakes him: Error reacts quickly and sidesteps to make room for Blue, who (of course!!) runs towards Ink and tackles him down in an embrace.

„Oh stars!!! I did not know you would be here too!!!“ he cries out joyfully, making Ink laugh.

Looking quite disgusted at both of them, Error mentions, „FirSt oFf: iF aNy of yOu sPreaD fiLtH oN my FloOr, I wIlL tHrOw yOu oUt iNstAntlY. AnD seConD oFf: I tHouGht yOu aLrEady tOld hIm aBouT tHis?!“

„Uuuh... guess I forgot after all?“ Ink answers with a carefree shrug.

„GreAt, i Can'T eVen GivE yoU oNe siMple tAsK, Can i? Now I haVe tO do aLl tHe eXplaIninG aGaIn or WhaT?!“

„You're probably better at it than me anyways.“

„...ThaT's tRue.“

„So!! Can someone tell me what kind of meeting this is supposed to be??“ Blue cuts in after he and Ink have stood up again. „Is this maybe... a friendship evening?!“ Immediately, his eyes become blue stars. „Are we going to cook and eat and watch movies together?!“

„DeFiniTelY noT.“

„Oooouuh, that sounds great!“ Ink comments enthusiastically, his eyelights taking the same shape. „What are we going to cook?!“

Upon hearing that, Error and Blue stiffen at the same time.

„...Now that I think about it: Microwave popcorn might be actually a safer option,“ the latter suggests.

„OkAy, We'Re noT gOinG to dO aNy of TheSe tHinGs bEcaUse we HavE wOrK to Do,“ Error determines, walking towards the table. „Now BotH oF yOu sIt dOwn.“

„What a killjoy,“ Ink mumbles with a pout.

„Someone ought to teach the grumpy office man the right way of handling a friendship evening!“

„Nah, it's super hard for someone as grumpy as him!“

„Well, this is true...“

„I Can StiLl hEar BotH of yOu, yOu knOw.“

As the three of them sit down, Blue curiously looks at all the papers and notebooks lying on the table, some of them even being Ink's Dreamlogs!

„It still kinda baffles me that you two know each other,“ the artist says. „How did you even meet?“

„Well, it is an amazing tale of friendship and-“

„LeaVe iT foR soMe oTheR tIme,“ Error interrupts.

„By the way, I must say I am pretty relieved that the two of you apparently get along!“ Blue states proudly. „When I have heard from Ink about your encounter, I... well... got a bit worried at first.“

„And why?“ Ink inquires.

„BecAuse He'S smArt eNouGh tO uNdeRstAnd hoW aNnOyiNg yOu'd Be to Me.“

„Eh, yes, I guess? Also regarding Error's anger issue...,“ Blue adds quietly.

Error frowns at that. „I dOn't HavE aNy aNgeR iSsuEs. I'm pErfecTly nOrmAl.“ As Ink snorts, he glares at him. „WhaT tHe hElL aRe yOu lAughInG at nOw?!“

„Well! However! The most important thing is that all of us are friends now!!“

„We'Re deFiniTelY nOt.“

„He's too embarrassed to admit it~,“ Ink teases, gleefully watching Error grinding his teeth before turning to Blue again. „But you could've told me about Glitchy much earlier, couldn't you?“

„I aLreAdy sAiD ThAt I maDe hIm maKe A pRomIsE to Not TeLl aNyoNe aBouT uS.“

„And I, as a loyal friend, am keeping this promise until this very day!!“ Blue announces cheerfully.

„Wow, better not let anyone know that you're having a social life too, right?!“ Ink responds while looking at Error again and laughing.

„I hAve My rEasOnS. AnD yoU beTteR sHuT uP aBouT iT tOo.“

„Geez, okay,“ Ink agrees.

„Well! I also wanted to mention what a nice home you have!“ Blue compliments while observing the living room with big eyes.

To his surprise however, Ink huffs. „It's super unbearable!“

„NoT thAt agAiN,“ Error mumbles as he rolls his eyes.

„Eh? What is so bad about it?“ Blue questions.

„I mean: Just look at that!“ Ink says, spreading his arms.

Blue does as he was told to: He sees the white walls, the couch and the television, the window, the kitchen area, but spots nothing conspicuously terrible, which confuses him. „Um, at what?“

„Exactly!“ Ink exlaims in frustration. „I mean, the window view is pretty nice, but there are just no decorations, pictures or anything! Just a dull, boring room! You get totally crazy in here!“

„ArE yoU dOne wItH yOuR rAnt?“ Error asks, unimpressed at his words.

„You could at least paint your walls!“ Ink suggests.

„How aBoUt nO?“

„Just one color!“

„You ArE noT mY inTerIoR deSigNeR!“

Huh, how odd. Are friends supposed to talk like an old couple?? Blue has still so much to learn! „Uh, I hope you do not argue very often??“ he inquires.

„ThiS is StiLl tAmE.“

„So there are instances that are more extreme?“ As Blue furrows his brow in worry, Ink's usual happy laugh manages to put him at ease, at least for the first moment.

„It depends!“ he answers.

„On what?“

„Whether you'd call a fight that let a building collapse extreme!“

…

Blue has several questions.

„We DiGreSsed Too MucH. Let Us nOw tAlK aBouT mOre ImpoRtaNt toPicS,“ Error recommends.

***

As everything has been said, Blue stays quiet for a moment to process the information before asking, „So my dreams would be a help for you?“

„PerHapS. DepEndS on wHat yoU'rE dreAmiNg aBouT,“ Error answers. „WhaT iS reQuiReD frOm yOu iS to WriTe dOwn yOuR dReAmS evEry dAy, imMedIaTelY aFteR yOu waKe uP anD wiTh aS maNy DetAilS as posSiBle, so We cAn mEet uP anD puT tHem TogEtheR.“

„Oh, wowzers,“ Blue whispers, „this is like an activity you would do in a friend club!“

„CaLl iT whAtevEr yOu wAnt. WouLd yoU be WilLinG to Do thIs?“

„Of course I would! You can count on your dear friend Blue to help you out!!“ he accepts, making the artist grin brighter, who immediately takes his yellow vial.

„Great!!“ Ink exclaims and attempts to hug the other from the side. However, the force behind it is so strong that both of them fall onto the ground along with the chair Blue has been sitting on.

„...HowEveR, yoU dOn'T tEll oTheRs abOut aNy oF thIs yeT,“ Error adds, apparently trying his best not to comment on what just happened.

As Ink's head emerges from below, he puts his chin on the table and replies, „Awww, you still need 'accustoming time'? But don't you know us well enough by now?!“

„ThaT's noT thE poInT,“ Error objects, watching Blue get up, who accidentally steps on Ink's scarf and drags him down to the floor again when he tries to stand up. Holding onto Blue, Ink takes him with him. „...NeiTheR of You cAn uNderStaNd tHe paIn oF haViNg to DeAl wiTh bOth oF yoU aT thE sAme tiMe.“

„Nah, you're exaggerating,“ Ink comments.

„I wiSh i WeRe.“

„Well, I can keep quiet for sure!“ Blue promises, picking up the chair again.

„AnD yoU'd hAve tO cAtcH uP on EveRythiNg anD rEaD abOut OuR drEaMs tOo.“

„At least, I have already read Ink's novelized version for I am his proud proofreader!! ...Although, if all of the dreams are supposed to have a logical throughline, then I highly doubt its accuracy...“

„Huh? Why?“ Ink asks innocently.

„'Why'?! Have you read it yourself?!“ Blue huffs.

„...For the most part?“

With an annoyed groan, he turns towards the irritated Error. „Sometimes his stories are relatively coherent, but in other instances, they are completely nonsensical!!!“

„Dunno what you mean.“

„Then let me remind of you of the chaos that is #123: In the middle of an epic battle, candy started raining from the sky!!“ Blue shouts to which Ink only shrugs.

„Well, how do you know this isn't just a normal weather condition of the AU where the fight took place?“

„Then everyone randomly started talking Spanish!!!“

This has been enough to make Ink snort (of course!). „Oh man, I have to read this again. This sounds hilarious!“

„And in his last chapter, he made you into a cat!“ Blue mentions while pointing at Error, who has been already massaging his temples.

„OkAy, I'm aBsolUteLy nOt inTerEsteD in wHat'S gOinG oN iN thE weIrDo'S brAin,“ he declares sternly. „So tHe deAl beTweEn tHe tHreE of Us sTanDs nOw.“

One and a half year ago, Blueberry would have never imagined that a day like this would come: not only having Error as a friend but also hanging out with Ink as a group of three! Suddenly Blue begins to believe that also the day on which the office man will open his heart to others and start calling him 'a friend' too may not be as far away as he initially thought.

Until then! Blue will give his all and support them, whether it be by documenting his dreams or bringing over some tacos (and also with dispute settlement. You never know when the next building might collapse).

After all, you can always count on the Magnificent Blue!

Mweheheheheheheheheheheheheh!

***

Chapter Text

The Case of Blueberry

***

Several years ago...

Blue

There was a time in Blue's life he rather unwillingly talks about nowadays, one in which the 'Magnificent' part of his title had not been established yet. „But Blue!“ the metaphorical question person might say. „Just which part of your life could you be referring to?“

Back then when Blue was young enough to be called 'a child' by the adults (although it sometimes happens even today too; 'the curse of size', as Ink might say), he often times found himself wandering around aimlessly, lost in his own doleful thoughts. On one of those days, he strolled in a park in Waterfall, his unenthusiastic gaze being focused on the ground for most of the time. At some point he spotted a bench out of the corner of his eye, so little Blue decided to take a break and sit down for a while. He let out a deep sigh.

„*...You seem to be quite miserable, young friend,“ the man sitting next to him said. He had a very bright smile on his face.

„I, uh, sorry, I didn't notice someone was already sitting here,“ Blue apologized, attempting to stand up again.

„*I do not mind. I neither own this park nor this seat, after all,“ the pale individual declared before looking up. „*I must say we have a nice weather today.“

„Well, it's... kind of cloudy?“ Blue stated, watching the gray masses of smoke coming from the factories darkening the sky.

„*It is a matter of perspective,“ the other explained. „*Say, you certainly have heard of people who are called 'romanticists', right?“

„Yes, I think?“

„*Well, we perceive the world around us differently. We look at things others may deem silly or insignificant and become fascinated by them. Tell me, for example: What do you think is pretty?“

„Um,“ Blue uttered, unsure how to respond to this strange man.

„*Do not be confused by the generality of the question. It can be really anything.“

„The sunset?“

„*Yes, it truly is. It is not called one of the most beautiful sights in the world for nothing. What else?“

„Uh, flowers? Rainbows? Butterflies?“

Chuckling, the man answered, „*Why, yes. But have you ever thought that a clouded sky can be pretty? Or the creaking and rattling machines in a crowded factory? An old, forgotten alleyway somewhere in the city? Or a tree in winter season?“

„Uh, no. These are really weird things to find pretty,“ Blue commented, laughing a little.

„*Yes, we are a weird little folk.“

„So do you think the sky is pretty right now?“

„*I do.“

„And why?“

For a moment, the man stopped gesturing with his hands. „*Young man, did you not know?“ He stared at the small skeleton. „*You shall not explain why you find something beautiful, for a part of its beauty lies in its mystery. That is the core principle of Æther. Reveal it and it shatters immediately. Although...“ He looked up to the sky again. „*...the shattering process itself can give birth to a whole new form of beauty.“

„Errrr, okaaay?“ Blue uttered while slowly moving further away from the guy. Since when were weirdos like him hanging out in the park?

„*...Ah, I apologize. My rambling must sound like nonsense to you, must it not? You are just reminding me of a student of mine; you two look quite similiar although he is older than you.“

„Is he a skeleton too?“

„*He is.“

Before Blue was able to ask another question, he suddenly heard familiar voices from afar. A couple of monster kids he immediately recognized ran by, playfully chasing each other and laughing loudly. The young skeleton stiffened and tried hiding his gaze by staring at the ground, hoping they would not notice him. Luckily they did not and continued their way. Once their voices faded, Blue sighed in relief.

The man, observing his behavior, inquired, „*What is bothering you if I may ask?“

„N-Nothing,“ he immediately negated.

„*It is quite obvious that you are distressed. Perhaps I can help with an advice if you describe your problem?“

„R-Really? But why would you-?“

„*As I said before: You are reminding me of my student.“ The man tilted his head, patiently waiting.

It took some time for Blue to gather enough courage to speak up: „Um, these guys just now, they are from my neighborhood. They are, uh, kind of mean sometimes...“

„*Hm, I see. Are they picking on you?“

Hesitantly, Blue nodded. Although he hated telling anyone about this, even his own brother, he slowly continued as the words started coming out almost automatically, „They always make fun of me, that I'm small and, uh, that it's easy to make me cry and all that... w-which isn't true, by the way! I'm a hard-boiled guy! Many just cry on instinct when they stumble and hit the ground, right?!“

„*...So is it respect that you seek?“

„...Y-Yes, I think so,“ Blue admitted quietly. „...I don't like others seeing me as weak...“

„*Then hear my advice, young man,“ the man requested, waiting for the small skeleton to look at him before he proceeded, „*Falling into self-pity never helps. You have to take the matter into your own hands and work on yourself to become a person who is worth of being respected.“

„I mean, that sounds easy, but-“

„*No buts,“ he interrupted strictly. „*Respect does not come on its own; it is something everyone has to achieve first. Some have it easier from the get-go because they have a special gift or because of their family status, but in the end, even they have to prove themselves. Everyone has to. Monsters like you just have it harder. Do you understand me?“ The man leaned closer to him, his smile unwavering. „*You want respect? Then earn it. Earn it all by yourself so it is actually worth something.“

„Blue?!“ A voice calling his name got the skeleton's attention.

„Oh, that's my brother.“

„*Well then,“ the man said and stood up, „*I must continue my way. I bid you farewell, young man.“

While his mysterious conversation partner took a bow, Blue silently waved him goodbye. By the time Stretch arrived, the man had already vanished behind the next corner.

„Seriously bro, don't just wander off while I'm taking a nap. You scared me,“ he requested after a sigh of relief.

„I just wanted to take a short walk for five minutes or so,“ Blue explained and then pouted, adding, „I'm old enough to stroll around by myself, you know!“

„Eh, of course, but you could've told me beforehand. You would be probably worried too if you woke up and I had suddenly vanished without telling you anything, right?“

Upon imagining that, Blue averted his gaze, filled with regret, and murmured, „Sorry, you're right. Not happening again.“

„Nah, c'mon, don't let your head hang like that,“ Stretch replied while patting his brother's skull, which made him pout once again. „By the way, who was that guy just now?“

„Um, I don't know. Just some random park visiter?“ A very weird and... creepy one (but Blue was not scared, of course!!). But still... the sophisticated way he spoke, his firm convictions, never losing his smile once... Blue would like to be as confident as him.

„Dude, I already said to you that it's not a good idea to talk to strangers,“ Stretch insisted with a worried expression.

„For that I'm old enough too!“ Blue determined with his arms crossed.

„Well, if you're old enough for that, then that means you're also too old to sleep with your plushie at this point, right?“

„O-Of course!“ he agreed (ever since this conversation, Blue began to hide his plushie to avoid any unfunny remarks coming from his brother).

Laughing, Stretch took the other's hand and started to lead the way. „Let's head home then, shall we?“

However, his brother quickly shook off his hand. „You don't need to do that anymore! ...That's uncool,“ Blue criticized and marched ahead of Stretch while stomping loudly.

„Eh, sorry. Old habits die hard, y'know?“ the other answered with a lazy shrug and followed him.

Years later, neither of them will remember the man on the bench.

***

Eventually, both of them reached Hotland.

„...and that's why I believe that honey goes with pretty much everything,“ Stretch ended his speech with a proud grin.

„That sounds absolutely disgusting!“ Blue exclaimed, outraged. „Even with something like meat or potatoes?!“

„I don't see why not.“ Suddenly, the intense smell of smoke invading their nostrils made them stop. „Is something burning here?“

After following the scent for a little while, the brothers spotted a small factory from afar, being ablaze and a crowd of bystanders gawping at it from a safe distance.

„Can't understand why others look at that as if it's a spectacle; it's like the third time this month that such an accident happens,“ Stretch commented and then shrugged. „Well, nothing for us to see here, right?“

Before Blue could follow his brother who attempted to leave, something at the scene got his attention. „Look, the city guard has arrived.“

„Yeah, I mean, someone has to put off the fire- Eh, where are you going?“

Very eagerly, the small skeleton rushed over to the other bystanders, pushing his way through the crowd until he was in the first row. Immediately, his gaze fell upon one city guard in particular: a bulky giant whose entire body was covered with a golden armor, shining in the fire's light.

As the other guards had already started to extinguish the flames from the outside, the knight boldly rushed inside the burning building. Worried murmurs among the crowd could be heard, however mere moments later, the brave guard in golden armor returned, carrying four whole monster under his arms, apparently the remaining workers who had been trapped there since they had not been able to escape fast enough.

And as the crowd applauded, Blue's eyes sparkled in admiration while he was watching the hero knight standing there proudly.

'I want to be like that too,' was his thought back then.

***

Many years had passed: Blueberry, being now a magnificent new trainee in the Judgement Hall, wandered through a corridor in his academy, just happily humming, not suspecting anything evil for him to come. Well, why should he? 'Always remain positive' had become one of his favorite mottos, after all (closely followed by 'Mweheheh' and 'Stop smoking in here, Stretch'. But the latter only ever worked in certain situations)!

However, as Blue intended to go around the corner, he did not see the person coming from the opposite way fast enough, so they bumped into each other.

„Woops, already the fourth time today,“ the other skeleton said, laughing at himself before his eyelights turned into green gears as he thought. „Or the fifth? I can't actually remember.“

„Excuse me, I did not see you coming!“ Blue apologized quickly. ...That other guy was now staring at him silently, blinking and still smiling. „Is something the matter??“

Suddenly the grinning skeleton put one hand on his own head, then slowly moved it towards Blue's. ...Was he comparing their sizes right now?

„...Small,“ the stranger whispered as his eyes became two yellow stars, which made the other gasp in surprise.

„Wowzers! You can do that star thing too!!!“ Blue exclaimed cheerfully, his eyes taking the same shape now.

Upon seeing this, the other student took the orange vial from his bandolier and drank it. Then he suddenly grabbed both of Blue's shoulders, responding excitedly, „Wow, now I know two persons who can do that!“

„There is another one?!“

„Yeah, lemme introduce you right now!“ he offered as he grabbed Blue's hand in order to drag him with him.

„W-Well, if that does not bother you!“ Blue answered, surprised by the strength of his grip. „But you originally wanted to go to the other direction?“

„Nah, it's fine. I've forgotten what I wanted to do anyways,“ he assured him. „Name's Ink, by the way.“

„And you can call me Blue!!“

Strangely enough, Ink snorted. „Guess we met out of the blue, huh?!“

„Oh stars, no. You are one of them,“ Blue uttered with a voice filled with terror.

„One of who?“

„The insufferable punsters!!“

Ink laughed. „You're funny!“

At last both skeletons went into the open, a small green area where under a tree, someone was sitting at a table and reading a book. He looked up when Ink and Blue approached him.

„Dream, look! I've found another guy with starry eyes! I bumped into him just now!“ Ink exclaimed while grabbing Blue by his shoulders again and placing him in front of him. The small trainee greeted the yellow-eyed stranger by eagerly waving at him with a bright smile.

„Oh, I hope Ink didn't drag you here against your will?“ Dream inquired.

„Why, no! I agreed to this!“ he responded and held out his hand to him. „Greetings, my name is Blue!“

The other returned his gesture and giggled at his enthusiastic handshake. „I'm Dream. So, Ink, did you bring the soda?“

„...Oh.“

„Forgot again?“ Dream asked, sounding not that surprised.

„Well, we can deal with that later, but now...“ Ink led Blue closer to the table, made him sit down and then took a seat too, staring at his friend with anticipation. „...can you show us your eyes thing?!“

„Um, you know I can't do this on command,“ Dream replied and looked down at his book, blushing. „Besides, it's kind of embarrassing...“

„Pretty pleeease~?“

„I-Ink, really now...,“ Dream murmured and at this point, almost hid his face behind the book.

„You do not have to if you-“

However, Blue got interrupted by Ink, who pointed at something to his right: „Oh look, a fluffy puppy over there!“

„Huh?“ Dream uttered with a small goofy grin, immediately turning his head to the shown direction as his starry eyes glinted.

...Then he realized there was nothing.

„Ink!“ Dream called out, nudging the other's shoulder as both of them laughed.

After the three had been sitting there for a while (and in the meantime Ink had actually gotten the soda), Dream asked, „So which year is it for you?“

„My first!“ Blue replied.

„Huh, that's actually convenient because that one is my last and it would be nice if there was someone looking out for Ink.“

„Why so?“ the small skeleton questioned.

„Uh, where do I start?“ Dream said, laughing a little. „He always forgets his books...“

„Classic one!“ Ink commented while sipping on his drink.

„He draws in class...“

„Naturally!“

„He's always too late...“

„My record is three hours!“

„Four,“ Dream corrected.

„Four!“ Ink repeated joyfully.

„And one time, he managed to lock himself up in... a locker.“

„Eh, from the inside?“ Blue asked.

„Not even he knows how he did it,“ Dream responded.

Knitting his brow in worry, Blue glanced at Ink, who cluelessly shrugged. Then the trainee cleared his throat before speaking up again, „Well, the Magnificent Blue always assists his classmates in distress! You can count on me to take care of your clumsy friend here!!“

That had actually been the first time Blue used his title in front of someone who was not his brother. The sudden realization of that made him a bit nervous for a brief moment.

„That's great to hear. At least I don't have to worry over that anymore,“ Dream answered happily, which made Blue smile more confidently again.

„There are the starry eyes again!“ Ink cried out gleefully as he pointed at his friend.

Dream recoiled a bit, blinking in surprise. „No, I'm pretty sure I don't have them right now?“

„Well, you don't have a mirror to tell that, huh?“

„Y-You're just messing with me again, aren't you?“ he replied, holding up the book in front of him to cover his face.

„I'm always honest~“

„No, you aren't!“

Meanwhile Blue kept watching the two 'arguing' in silent amusement as he drank his soda. Suddenly, he imagined how fun it would be if the three of them were to become city guards one day and worked together. Wowzers, and what about as an actual team? Fulfilling his lifelong dream was one thing, but together with others... with, perhaps, friends? That would be too good to be true!

His starry eyes kept shining as he was pondering about a potential team name.

***

At precisely 5:30 am, Blue's alarm clock wakes him up. He has decided to stand up earlier than usual so he would have time to record his dreams; of course he will fulfil his duty as a part of the 'Error and Ink and Blue friend club' and keep track of them diligently (although Error still does not approve of this name; well, Blue himself has to admit it is indeed kind of long)!

After half an hour, he lays down his pen and notebook. Who would have thought that writing everything down would take so much time? Perhaps in the future, he should wake up even earlier to include more details!

Anyway, now it is time to dress up! There are some accessories Blue is always wearing to let his guard uniform appear more special: His blue gloves! His blue bandana! His very, very blue shoulder plates! But the most important item of all: His badge with a blue star symbol on it and a dark brown ribbon with some blue strings attached to it. He always likes to remember the day on which he received this very special present...

Once when Dream, Ink and Blue were still visiting the academy together and the latter had decided on the name 'Star Trio' for their little group, everyone of the three has gotten some kind of accessory to show off their membership: Dream has a strap with a badge on it, showing a yellow star, Ink even has a cap and boots with three golden stars and Blue also had a badge but pinned to his shirt. Well, had. Until one day, he lost it somewhere during his training (no, he is not going to admit that he cried a little bit over it).

However, it just so happened to be around the time Blue mastered his exam one year ago and he had told his favorite office man about it during one of his visits. Then some weeks later when he came back, something very wonderful occured, something that he will forever remember dearly...

***

„WaiT a MomEnt,“ Error called after Blue, who had left his office just a moment ago. Then the former looked around him, apparently making sure no one was there, and quickly threw the object he held at him.

Blue was confused at first, but as he saw the blue star symbol on the badge, his eyes went wide. And the aura these strings were emitting... this was Error's magic, right? These were his blue strings?

„Wowzers, could it be that you made it yourself?!“ Blue asked, struck with awe. „Is... is this a present for me??“

„JusT maKe sUre tHe sTriNgs sTay TheRe,“ Error explained. „WeaR iT dUriNg yOur pAtrOls or whAteVer wAnNabE guArdS liKe yOu aRe doInG aT thEir Job. AnD reMemBer Our agreEmeNt: dOn't tElL yOuR frIeNds tHat yOu goT iT fRom Me.“

„Error, you cannot imagine how much that makes me-“ All of a sudden Error closed the door again, leaving Blue alone in the hallway. „-happy???“

***

...Although, now that Blue thinks about it: Error was pretty rude back then. Damn you, you blinding nostalgia! You tricky foe fooled the Magnificent Blue once again!!

Well, his badge is sewn on a dark brown cloth that he wraps around his hips before he takes his shoulder bag where his work phone is located and finally leaves his room. However, Blue abruptly stops at the doorframe of his living room as he suddenly senses something... and that something is laziness...

„Stretch!!“ he cried out after spotting his brother lying on the couch, snoring peacefully.

„...Eh?“ At last Stretch sits up groggily, rubbing his eyes. „Morning, bro. What time is it?“

„Six o'clock!“

„Hm, 'kay. Then I can keep my eyes closed for a while,“ he murmurs and flops back on the couch again.

„Really now! Can you not show more disclipine for once?!“ Blue complaints as he crosses his arms.

„Am not a city guard like you.“

„Well yes, but I worry that you might oversleep work one day if you keep up this attitude!“

„Don't worry. Never happened once until now.“

„And you cannot just sleep with your normal clothes! They get all creased!“

„Mhm.“

„...And did you smoke again?!“

„Eh, I actually opened the window while doing so, so there should be no smell in here-“

„That is not the point!!“ Blue exclaims, outraged. „It is uncool and harmful!!!“

„Skeletons don't have lungs.“

„But they have standards!!“ He sighs. „Anyway! I am almost too late to be too early, so let us postpone this discussion!“ As he walks away, Blue also adds, „I left your lunchbox for today in the fridge!“

„Thanks, bro,“ Stretch calls after him.

***

When Blue is on his way to New Home, the narrow streets of Hotland are already filled to the brim with industrial workers wandering around, attending their workplaces. But among the crowd of various humans and monsters, he spots a familiar face, standing behind a hot dog cart, so he decides to go over to him and greet, „Good morning to you! Since when are you up that early??“

„Since I've got the idea that more customers would come and buy my stuff at this time,“ Red answers, grimacing. „But these bastards still stay far away from ma cart.“

„First off: language!“ Blue says. „Second off: Perhaps you should try to look more... approachable??“

„Whatcha mean?“

„You know, smiling more!!“ he replies and demonstrates it by grinning brightly himself. „Like this!!“

„...'m selling hot dogs, not happiness,“ Red mumbles, quietly adding, „'Smiling', he says. I ain't a freaking clown.“

„Then, uh, at least a neutral look!!“

Frowning, he grumbles, „This is ma neutral look.“

„...Then I must say I am afraid I am out of options??“ Blue replies. „But well, I can at least support you by buying one of your hot dogs!“

„Yeah, thanks,“ Red responds, discontently preparing one hot dog for him (what a, um, humble customer service). „Yer goin' ta work?“

„Yes, I am!“

„Goin' ta catch some baddies today?“

„Well, uh, not quite,“ Blue confesses as he takes the hot dog. „I believe there will be just paperwork for most of the time again. Although Dream and I might go out patrolling afterwards.“

„Why the hell borin' office stuff again? Ain't the crime rate high right now?“

„It is but since elite guards like Dream are only ever called for more urgent missions, they mostly do desk work for the rest of their time. Someone has to, right?“

„Still doesn't make sense ta me. And if he weren't yer superior, then ya wouldn't be forced ta help him with that crap,“ Red points out sternly. „Ain't it already time for ya ta get a bit more independent anyways? How long is yer 'traineeship' even supposed ta be?“

„One year, actually. Yes, now that you say it, I think this year is already over,“ Blue answers, getting quieter at the end as he starts to ponder.

Right, if he absolved his traineeship, then he would not necessarily be under Dream's direct supervision anymore, meaning he would be an actual city guard doing more practical work than now in his current position. Not that Blue has something against paperwork, but... he would like to use more of his potential, be a help by doing actual crime fighting, helping and rescuing others in an epic fashion. This is the kind of city guard he has always wanted to be: a hero who rushes directly into action.

…

All of a sudden someone behind Blue runs past him really fast, causing the skeleton to glance at them curiously: That someone is a small, volcano-shaped monster, balancing some kind of object on the top of their head.

From the direction they have come from, a voice calls out, „*Help! My wallet has been stolen!“

…

As the realization sets in, Blue's face brightens up and he gasps in excitement. „Injustice!!!“ he exclaims, pointing at the fleeing thief.

Then he begins to run after him while Red yells, „Hey! Ya forgot ta pay, jackass!“

„I will do it after my mission is accomplished! The Magnificent Blue promises!!“ Blue yells back.

„I hope so, or else he gets a kick in the ass!“ Red screams angrily (and the people around him distance even more from him).

Finally Blue somewhat catches up with the culprit, now being around three meters away from him. „Hold on, vicious villain! Or else I am forced to use... uh, force!!“ Well, that sounded far more eloquent in his head, but anyway, it matters not! The monster does not listen, so Blue decides to summon a bone. „You leave me no choice! Take this!!!“

He throws the bone. The volcano monster falls over.

„Strike!!!“ Blue exclaims proudly as he holds in his tracks.

However, the thief stands up again. They turn around to look at the trainee with an innocent smirk.

...Then they continue running away again.

„Damn it! Not again!!“ Blue cries out in frustration and proceeds to follow them once more. Actually he hoped his soul manipulation technique would have been activated; it either works by a direct touch of him or one of his bone attacks. However! Even after all those years of practicing, its success rate varies all the time, being mostly an annoying fifty-fifty chance! So the frustrated skeleton keeps bombarding the small volcano with more bones while the passersby are giving them weird looks.

But at last, it happens! As one of the bones hits its target, the white monster soul of the little thief pops up in front of them and then changes its color to blue, making the trainee smile in relief.

„Now hold on!!“ Blue orders and when he points at the culprit, they immediately stand still as the gravity is pressing them down. That allows the trainee to easily catch up on them. „With that, the Magnificent Blue triumphed over evil again!“ Then he lifts the monster up who begins to helplessly swing their tiny legs back and forth in the air. „But do not fear! Every action, be it small or big, can be forgiven! So let us do the first step together by returning the wallet and apologizing to the victim! I shall accompany you!!“

As Blue carries the monster under his arm, he runs off with a victorious laugh.

***

„And then I grabbed him and we returned the wallet together!!“ Blue explains excitedly.

„*...And why are you telling me all of this?“ Whimsalot, his guard colleague, asks as he flutters through the hallway, followed by the small skeleton.

„Well, I just had to share this epic story with someone!“

„*You already told this five other guards if I am correct,“ the butterfly-like monster answers.

„True! But is it not common to celebrate a successful mission with your workmates?“

Sighing, Whimsalot stops for a moment. „*Yes, you did a great job. I am proud of you. Is that what you wanted to hear?“

„Uh, yes, I guess-“

„*Now you've heard it and can move on with your work, can't you? Because you're hindering others who have more urgent things to deal with right now,“ he explains as he stares reproachfully at the skeleton through the gaps of his helmet. „*You understand this, right?“

„Of course I do.“ It is the beginning of August and the anniversary takes place in a bit over a month; during this time, it tends to get... well, a bit chaotic, thus giving city guards more work to do.

Suddenly Final Froggit hops towards Blue and Whimsalot, making several quacking noises. The latter one sighs again. „*Seems like I have been called.“ While flying away, he calls after the skeleton, „*Don't you have some desk work to do?“

„O-Okay then! See you later!“ Blue replies hastily.

...Well, perhaps Dream will appreciate his story more.

***

Entering his friend's office, Blue is instantly greeted by the positive aura Dream is always emitting, boosting his excitement even more.

„Good morning to you,“ Dream says, giving a friendly smile.

As always he is wearing his classic blue tunic, as well as his left shoulder plate on which his yellow-orange cape is attached, showing a sun symbol (Blue once asked Error whether he can teach him how to sew so he could fix the frayed spots on Dream's cape, but then he had to hear the office man ranting for minutes about how sewing and knitting are not the same thing), and his simple golden crown with two spirals on the forehead, winding and going into the opposite direction from each other.

Sitting behind his desk, Dream inquires, „You arrived later than usual. Did something hold you up?“

„Something indeed did!“ Blue confirms as he comes closer. „On my way here, I came across a pickpocket and chased him until I have gotten the stolen wallet back!“

„Oh, you were robbed?“

„No, not me, someone else, but do not worry! For I retrieved the stolen goods and returned the said wallet safely to its owner!!“ he explains enthusiastically while Dream is listening intently (at least one person here still values a good old heroic anecdote!) „And all that thanks to my special attack! Mweheheh!“

„My, that sounds great,“ Dream comments contently. „And it did work without any complications this time?“

„Eh.“ Blue averts his gaze. „Yeeesss???“

That makes the other guard giggle, apparently seeing through the lie, but being a good friend, he replies, „Well, then how about I treat you later to an apple juice to mark the occasion?“

„Gladly!!“ Blue exclaims and happily sits down at his own desk on the right side of the room.

***

At some point Blue begins to stare out of the window where golden light is shining through the already golden room, lost in his thoughts.

„Is something the matter?“ Dream eventually asks. „You still seem to be... kind of excited about something?“

There is basically no chance to hide those things from someone who can literally feel his emotions, so maybe it is time to talk about that! „Well, this might be because I wanted to ask you something important!“ As Dream curiously tilts his head, Blue continues, „So one year has already passed since my exam if you remember.“

„My, you're right. How fast the time flies.“

„Indeed, indeed! So I was wondering... when the time for me becoming an official city guard would come?“

„Oh, so you mean the end of your traineeship?“ Dream asks, seemingly taken by surprise by his question. Then he becomes silent for several moments, pondering as he stares at the opposite wall. „...To be honest, I thought about that a while ago too.“

„Oh, really?“ Blue's hope rises.

Dream nods before hesitantly speaking, „Yes, and... I believe it's perhaps still too early for that.“

„...Oh?“

„Uh, but don't see it as your fault or anything,“ Dream quickly adds. „It's just that we hadn't enough opportunities for you to... well, get accustomed to the more practical work yet. Um, you can blame me if you want to; maybe with another superior, you would have gotten more experience by now.“

„But I would never blame you!“ Blue objects. „In my opinion, you are the best superior a novice can wish for!“

„...Thanks,“ Dream responds, smiling at him sadly. „...I'm sorry. I didn't want to disappoint you.“

„D-Do not worry! I am not!“ Blue assures him. However, Dream's expression shows that he knows better, but he keeps quiet anyway. „I can completely understand your decision...“ Then the trainee looks up to the clock on the wall. „Uh well, it is theoretically break time now. Do you want to go out and eat something?“

„Hm, I think I'd rather finish this one thing before taking a break. But you can go ahead and I'll come later. The usual spot, yes?“

„...Yes, see you later then,“ Blue replies and forces a smile before he leaves the office.

***

Wearing a displeased frown, he bites into his selfmade taco as he is sitting on the stairs outside of the entrance area, staring at the bright blue sky. He is certainly not dumb, you know. Of course Blue recognized that kind of face the other guards made when he told them about his achievement today: amusement.

'Oh, look at little Blueberry catching a little pickpocket and being all proud about it!' That or something similar are their thoughts. He knows it well because that is the kind of expression he has always received from others, as well as certain... comments... he overhears from time to time...

'What a cute little skeleton! And always those high ambitions he has!'

'Better do not say something too mean to him, or else he cries!'

'Since when are children allowed in the city guard?'

Blue groans in frustration. If there were a way to proof them wrong! To show them how truly magnificent 'the Magnificent Blue' can be if he just gets a chance! Although Dream tried to be as kind as possible, it is obvious that he thinks that way too: that he is still too weak and incompetent.

Just what should Blue do?!

***

Blue returns to the office after getting a message on his work phone:

Conversation with Super Awesome Friend Dream

< Sorry I was spontaneously invited to a conference. Be back soon!

< Will grab some apple juices for us on my way back!

Well, now it means waiting for him.

…

Although while his friend is not here, Blue can maybe take care of the mess on Dream's table. It certainly is not as bad as the paper stacks Error has to deal with on his worst working days, but for someone valuing proper tidiness, it is an eyesore nonetheless! ...And he just wants to be somewhat useful.

So Blue walks over to the desk and the first thing that catches his eye is a picture in a photo frame. He picks it up to take a closer look.

It is an image of him, Dream and Ink. If he remembers correctly, then it was on the day Dream mastered his exam: On the day before, the trainee and the artist had tried to make special tacos together so they could give them to Dream. However, certain... things had happened, as always when Ink is involved in such matters, so the tacos had never gotten finished. Instead, they bought some congratulation cake in the next bakery (on this picture, Ink is still wearing his shirt that had gotten stained during the cooking session).

Afterwards, the three of them went to Dream's house, at first only expecting an innocent tea party; however after playing some board games together, things escalating to a pillow fight and then Ink... accidentally locking himself up in Dream's closet for a whole hour, they spontaneously decided to do a sleepover. It was a fun day.

The three skeletons in the picture are smiling, and Blue is smiling back. It would be awesome if Ink were here too, the three of them together as a team...

Eventually Blue puts the photo back where it was before, turning his attention towards the big paper pile with a sigh. Seriously, it is always annoying to witness a paper stack with some notes randomly sticking out of it! So Blue tries to straighten it, pulling out some papers so he can place them back more neatly.

...But at some point, a certain larger paper catches his interest: It is a map of their city, or rather a part of it: 'New Home, northeast', it says. Certain areas are marked with circles and all kinds of different colorful symbols (Ink would be proud!). But what do they mean?

After rummaging through more papers, Blue finds more maps but of different areas and finally, he finds a proper title on one of them: 'Criminal activity'.

As it seems, Dream has been marking some of the more 'darker places', huh? And the symbols stand for... the severity of the criminal activities? Certain criminal groups? Unfortunately, Blue cannot tell since he cannot find a description of their meanings anywhere.

So... is Dream actually keeping track and investigating all of these cases here? Why has he not told Blue about it? He would have liked to help him with that since it seems... like a lot... and it would give him the experience he needs as a trainee! Perhaps he can ask him next time if he can do something too?

...No, as if Dream would accept his offer. Since he has not told Blue about it yet, then it means there has to be a reason for it, right? Because Dream thinks he is not ready for it yet. Besides, he keeps constantly reminding Ink and Blue that they should always be careful around here and what not. So yes, also his overprotectiveness in mind, it is very likely that he will not involve him into this.

How frustrating.

…

…

But what if... Blue helped him regardless? After all, Dream does not have to know about it...

He could do some extra patrols in one of those areas after work. Maybe this is what it takes to finally prove himself? If he, for example, managed to stop a crime or even catch another criminal or two? Would it be enough for him to get his desired promotion to an actual city guard?

…

Well, why not!!! He believes in his own abilities after all! And a decent guard has to be brave, confident and always ready to help others and the city as a whole in need!! If he cannot accomplish this, why is he then still here in the first place?!

Blue can do it! He knows it! Mweheheheheh!!!

So he eagerly takes some pictures of the maps with his phone. As it seems, the violet moon (of course his friend would choose cute symbols like these) is the most prevalent on the maps, so Blue could facilitate Dream with that problem.

Anyway! Everything will turn out fine as long as he remembers his mantras:

Stay positive (and cool at the same time)!

Smile confidently!

And: Take the matters into your own hands to show everyone you are worth of respect!!!

...Well, wherever he heard that phrase from.

***

Chapter Text

The Case of Blueberry

***

Blue's Awesome Diary of Dreams, #1

I walked through a very snowy forest (really, I have never seen such a winter wonderland before! Wowzers!), apparently in search for something? Or patrolling?? Either way, even in my dreams I work diligently!

But! All of a sudden! I heard someone humming nearby, so I decided to investigate this matter and find its origin. And there it was: When I looked up, I was greeted with the shocking sight of a skeleton hanging from the tree with their scarf being tangled around one of the branches!!!

...Then it turned out that hanging skeleton had been Ink all along, who just waved at me once he noticed me (even in my dreams, he has no clue how he is getting in such a situation in the first place).

Well he got down eventually, and so we talked. It was our very first interaction I believe, so I was quite curious about him. But suddenly, Ink became all panicky once he apparently realized that 'he is actually not supposed to talk with other AU inhabitants'. These were roughly his words. Then he just vanished in, well, a puddle of ink (dramatically!!).

I did not necessarily expect him to come back, but nonetheless I kept running into him several other times: Once I spotted him randomly lying on some bush, then half-buried in snow when I accidentally stepped on him and received the shock of my life and one time, he even crashed through the rooftop of my self-built guard station!!

Naturally, I asked him why in the world he still kept appearing every now and then and why in such weird manners. Ink explained to me that he had been quickly fleeing through some portals every time 'the Destroyer' caught the other stalking him*, so he kept choosing my universe on instinct to escape his wrath... although he admitted later that he was doing this on purpose because 'my surprised reactions are super funny' (so much for his own set rule to not get involved with others like me; dream Ink is just as disciplined as our Ink! I am sorry, but I had to point that out!!).

The moment he finally accepted one of my invitations to a fine taco evening at my home was apparently (the very odd) beginning of our friendship.

*Important side note here: I vaguely remember a dream from a while ago in which our favorite office man visited me at my guard station (even in dreams, our friendship prevails!) and kept mentioning an annoying individual who would not stop watching him from afar, Error ranting about him constantly. Finally, the identity of that mysterious stalker was revealed to me (and sadly enough, I am not even that surprised by that; shame on you, dream Ink!)!!

At some point much later Ink introduced me to Dream, our 'Star Trio' being basically complete now! But Dream seemed to be sad because 'the amount of negative energy across the universes has increased'. Well, whatever that means.

Anyway! Even the dream version of the Magnificent Blue could not just stand there and watch when others were in need, so of course I offered my help!

It makes me happy to see that we are at least a team in our dreams.

Mweheheheheheheheheheh!!!

***

Chapter Text

The Case of Blueberry

***

Blue

At ten pm, Blue returns home after yet another friendship meeting at Error's house and a couple of rounds of his new extra patrol. Since the lights are off when the small skeleton enters their apartment, he naturally assumes that his brother is already in his room, sleeping. Walking into the living room, Blue turns on the light so he does not stumble on his way. However, before he can open the door-

„Hey, bro.“

„Oh my god!!“ Blue yelps as he jumps in surprise. When he turns around, he sees... his brother lying on the couch. Of course. „Stretch!!“

„Yup?“

„Why are you not sleeping in your own room?!“

„Well, when I got home from work, the couch practically called for me. Was too tempting.“

„Then ignore its call next time! You have your own bed!“ Blue demands as he crosses his arms.

„Nah, couch is just closer than the bed.“

„Perhaps one day, I might consider to remove it entirely so you have one option less for lazing around!“

„Please nooo,“ Stretch begs weakly while waving one arm around. Whatever that is supposed to accomplish.

„...Can you at least protest decently?“ Blue sighs. „Well, I am going to sleep now. I have had a long day.“

„What time is it?“ he asks as he groggily sits up.

„Ten o'clock.“

„Huh, you're kinda late today.“

„Well, I visited Ink after work.“ Again, this lie. Ever since Blue gave Error that one promise, he has been lying whenever it comes to their meetings. Although well, Ink were there too.

However, although this lie does not really hurt anyone, he cannot help but feel... bad about it. Perhaps one day, Error may feel not that uncomfortable about others knowing that he has a friend who visits him regularly... or maybe there is another reason behind it?? The office man is truly secretive sometimes! „Ah yes, I also wanted to mention it is very possible that from now on, I will return home later than usual.“

„Oh, why so?“

„Well, I am in the middle of the process of becoming an official city guard, so work is only going to get longer from now on!“

Another thing he has to hide from his brother. If he knew about his 'solo missions', then he might be just as worried as Dream, or maybe even more. No, it would be better if Blue's plan stayed a secret for now until he can actually present decent results that will show them that worrying is not necessary at all since he is strong enough to take care of himself!

However, even putting it that way does not feel right.

...Well, perhaps Blue should just see it in a different way? He could try comparing this to... giving someone a present. Of course you would need to hide and maybe even lie about it so the other person does not know of it. But in the end, it will be worth it because the surprise effect will give them twice as much joy as it normally would! In this case, 'the present' are the revelation and relief of knowing that Blue has been a capable guard all along! Also, Dream would certainly be happy to see that he has a trainee he can be proud of!

So... you can call this 'lying for a good cause', can you not?

„Hm, 'kay then. Don't overwork yourself, yes?“ Stretch answers as he finally stands up to head to his own room. „G'night.“

„Yes... good night to you too.“

***

One week later, the time has come for yet another meeting of the 'Error and Ink and Blue friend club' (or, you know, 'EaIaBfc' for short, but it sounds far less eloquent)! At Error's home once more, the three are at his table again while he is sticking some notes on a large piece of paper while Ink and Blue are sitting nearby.

„You know, we've already started the whole notes thingy on my pinboard. Why do we need to do this again? We could just go to my place“ Ink questions.

„If TheRe's One tHinG i'Ve leArnEd fRom ThaT onE cuRsEd niGht, tHen iT's The fAct tHat I neVer wAnT to Be wItH yoU in SmAlL sPaCe eVeR aGaIn,“ Error explains, apparently shuddering at the memory.

„My home isn't that small,“ Ink protests, however, his attention quickly gets directed towards one of the pens lying on the table.

„Do not worry, Ink! I am sure the true reason for Error inviting us to his private quarters is because he has developed a certain amount of trust for his friends!!“ Blue assures confidently.

„...Why dO yoU keEp coNstAnTly bAbBliNg abOut 'FrieNdshIp' aNd whAt nOt? You ShOulD knOw thAt thaT iS noT sOme siLlY pRojEct wE do fOr fUn, sO tReaT thIs mAttEr mOre sEriOuSly,“ Error demands sternly.

„Eh, then why is Ink currently drawing some adorable animals on the paper??“

As Error catches sight of the artist intently sketching, he quickly snatches the other's pen to which Ink exclaims, „Hey!“

„ThaT wAs aNothEr sTriKe.“

„And how many strikes do I need until you throw me out?“

„...I'lL deCidE sPonTanEousLy.“

„You know, I think you should just buy a pinboard yourself, you tightwad. That would also make your walls less boring!“ Ink recommends while trying to reach out for another pen, but Error beats him to it. „Ooooh, or how about a chalkboard?!“

„So yOu cAn draW insTeaD of WorKing? ForGet iT.“

Looking at the various notes for a while, Blue mentions, „I must say I am quite impressed how much you are remembering from your dreams. I find it difficult to recall certain names or faces.“

„ComEs wiTh pRacTice,“ Error answers before glaring at Ink. „...UnlEsS yOu'rE thAt mOroN oVer tHerE whO legiTiMateLy bEliEved mY aCtuAl nAme wAs 'GlitChY'.“

„And it still is part of my personal headcanon!“ said skeleton replies, chuckling at the other's annoyed expression.

„But well, there is a certain thing I still cannot understand,“ Blue admits as he looks inside Error's notebook. „Some parts here are weirdly unclear.“

„For ExAmplE?“

„There are dreams in which some kind of 'darkness' is mentioned before it comes to a destruction of a universe. Eh, is this a hole in your dream memory or-?“

„NeiTheR oF uS cAn tElL,“ Error cuts in and when Blue glances at Ink, his expression being unusually thoughtful, he just gives him a clueless shrug. „PeRhaPs wE'lL fiNd oUt thE meAninG beHinD it iF he a CleAr oVerviEw of EverYthiNg. Or mAybE onE dAy, One of uS mAy gEt oNe dReaM oR tWo tHat giVes uS aLl tHe aNswErs to Our qUeStiOns... oR pErhaPs a déJà Vu. EitHer wAy, wE shOulD juSt cOntInuE wiTh tHis As bEfoRe.“

Truly a curious case, those dreams. Well then! That just motivates Blue to put more effort into his recordings! Surely you can count curiosity as a reason too, but what really matters is not letting his friends down who are more curious than him!! Also, whatever Error may say: Their meetings have gotten much more fun as a group of three!

„Why Do yOu kEeP drAwiNg dUmB aNimAls on tHe pApeR?!“ Error cries out as he snatches the entire pencil case this time, making Ink pout.

***

Error

After Blue has left, Ink remains there, staring at the notes with a frown.

„...aNd WhaT's BugGing yOu aLl of A suDdeN?“ Error inquires.

„Somehow, you seem to remember even more AU names than me, now that I see it.“ He pouts again. „That's kinda unfair.“

Finding that childish expression amusing, Error snickers. „My DreaM meMoRy iS aCtuAllY qUitE pOor. MosT of The nAmeS yOu seE heRe aRe eIthEr gUesSes bAseD on tHe inFormAtiOn of pReviOus dReAms oR aRe noT eVen fRom Me aT aLl.“

„Then from whom?“

„FrOm NigHtmaRe,“ he responds while randomly turning some pages of his notebook. „SurpriSinGly EnoUgH, he SeEms to hAvE thE besT drEam mEmoRy ouT of AlL oUtcoDes i'Ve enCounTerEd so Far.“

„Oh. Then have you ever asked him how he remembers... the last dream, for example?“

„FoR soMe rEaSoN, he dOes nOt tAlk tHat MuCh aBouT thE laTer dReaMs,“ Error answers and frowns. „If You aSk mE, He's ProBablY hiDinG sOme DetAilS.“

„Huh...,“ Ink utters thoughtfully.

After a pause, Error speaks up again, „WhiLe I'm aT iT: I hOpe yOu sTiLl rEmeMbeR wHat I'vE toLd yOu rEceNtly rEgaRdinG oUr wAnNabe GuaRd?“

Ink chuckles. „I mean, you say a lotta things. Should I keep a protocol on everything?!“

Rolling his eyes, the other explains, „I mEan aBouT noT teLliNg hIm tHat I haVe a ConNecTioN to NiGhtmAre, eVen ThouGh it'S noT an aCtiVe One riGht nOw.“

„And why?“

„YeS, sqUiD, gO ahEad aNd aSk thE vEry IntElliGent qUesTioN wHy i WoulDn'T wAnt a fuTure ciTy guArd to KnoW thAt I hAve sOmetHinG to dO wiTh a CriMinaL.“

„Nah, c'mon, Blue isn't the type of guy who would snitch on his friends,“ Ink assures.

„...He wOuLd if He juSt kNeW hAlf oF thE thInGs i'Ve dOne so FaR. YoU don'T seEm to CarE abOut tHe whOle thIng at aLl, buT he'S noT yOu.“ Then Error smirks. „BuT wHat aM i EveN cOncErnEd aBouT? Not LikE yOu or He hAd aNy conCreTe eVideNcEs aGaiNst mE. And eVen iF he TrieD to Get sOme, tHen I woUld jUst tHreAten hiM; iT ceRtaiNly wOulD be eNouGh fOr a wImP liKe hIm to StoP. Heh.“ His grin slowly vanishes. „...ThEn hE pRobAbly wOuldn'T waNt to See mE eVeR agAin.“

After yet another pause, Error tries pull out a single string, piquing Ink's interest. „What are you doing?“ he asks.

„JusT rEmemBerEd sOmetHing,“ he replies before offering him the item. „TakE iT.“

„Uh, thanks, I guess? And why are you giving me this?“ Ink questions, holding the half a meter long string on both ends and staring at it in a confused manner.

„...JuSt a hAbiT of MinE tO gIvE mY lOngTerm cLieNts a StriNg to WeaR. Don'T qUesTion iT aNd jUst Do iT.“

„How do you imagine 'wearing' it?“

„Don'T knOw. MaKe a BraCelEt oUt of iT or WhaTeveR yOur CreaTiviTy is TelLinG yOu,“ Error suggests. „...And YoU alSo goT mY pReviOus pOinT abOut nIghTmaRe? You'Re noT goIng to TelL hiM aNytHinG?“

„Yeah, yeah.“

„I mEan It,“ he stresses strictly. „...AlSo, beSidEs thAt: tHe lAsT thInG I'd nEed RigHt noW is If eIthEr of yOu iDioTs maGicAllY maNaGed tO stUmbLe inTo hiS buSinEsS.“

„Nah, what are even the likelihoods?“ Ink replies carefreely.

„WitH hiM bEinG in The ciTy guArD aNd boTh oF tHeM aN ouTcoDe: hIghEr tHan yOu tHink. AlSo, yoU alMosT mAnaGed iT yOurSelf By fOlloWinG me thAt oNe dAy if You StiLl rEmeMbeR!“

„Yeah, good times.“

„...WhaT aRe yoU doIng wItH my StrInG riGht noW?“ Error questions as he stares at the other, dumbfounded.

„It makes funny noises~,“ Ink hums while pulling the thread on both ends again and again and watching it in sheer delight. „Have you ever thought about making a guitar out of them or something?“

„QuIt toYinG wiTh mY sTriNg!“

***

Blue

For Blue, the following two weeks go by like this: standing up at five am, recording his dream from last night, going to work at six am (as super early as possible to show his endless investment!), working until five or six pm and: his extra patrol! Alternatively, he visits Error for a couple of hours after his work since it is the most convenient time for the three of them, but that means that on those days, his patrols take place when it is... well, rather dark outside.

However, the results of his daily patrol routine have been... basically non-existent so far. Of course Blue spotted some shady figures lurking in shady places but whenever he saw them from afar...

...Eh. Well. Sometimes, you have to know when you are in disadventage or not! It is not called a 'strategic retreat' for nothing! You need a certain amount of wisdom and knowledge to analyze the situation and determine when it is reasonable to use it! And naturally, the Magnificent Blue has those attributes!!! Mweheheh... heh...

...Okay, he must admit that he still feels unsure. This is a completely new experience for him after all. All alone...

But! Blue has this very special feeling today! As if something might finally happen: him catching someone committing a crime or unravelling some evil businesses!

He just knows it! Like he did yesterday... or the day before (Blue is a very optimistic guy, you know)...

So in the evening when the sun is about to go down, he has chosen an area between Hotland and New Home; a practical location for him because his own home is not that far away from there. Also! Blue heard that the streets here tend to be rather empty, especially at evening and nighttime, so naturally, he has concluded that it would potentially be a good meeting spot for certain suspicious characters!

However, what an uninviting-looking neighborhood! Some of the lamps are flimmering constantly, the streets are unclean and it seems like the last renovation of this place took place a hundred years ago or so. Of course Blue is aware that some houses in and near Hotland are not the finest ones, but walking in one of those areas during an hour when the place appears to be some kind of scary ghost town... well, it certainly is an experience, to say the least.

As Blue makes his round, being hyperaware of his surroundings, he eventually spots another person standing next to a van at the side, rather inconspicuously in the dark. When he carefully comes closer, he can somewhat determine that this is a human man, wearing a black suit and smoking.

...Can this be considered suspicious? Well, there is only one way to find out! Since it seems to be only one single person, Blue's confidence rises. However, there is no need to act recklessly and charge into action just yet! No, it would be better to wait so he could catch the other in the middle of... of some kind of evil deed!! What an epic appearance that would be!!

So Blue decides to sneak behind the nearby pile of garbage bags, hiding and watching the suspect from a save position! That man is looking around from time to time; does he wait for someone to come? Well, then that means Blue just has to wait as well and see!!

…

…

Not that Blue is as impatient as Ink, but the excitement is already tickling him! As well as... a certain amount of uneasiness. Is it normal for guards to feel that way in such a situation? Or is it just him?? Because his metaphorical heart is basically jumping right out of his ribcage! But this shall not matter! For he is here to bring justice to this city!!

…

…

How surreal this situation actually feels when he thinks about it: Just three weeks ago, Blue did not imagine himself doing the things he is doing now: patrolling alone to prove himself, watching a potential suspect, being in a complete unfamiliar area... while it gets darker and darker...

After that, others just have to see him as brave, right? This is what being brave means, after all.

…

…

He is doing something a real city guard would do. He is acting like a city guard right now.

…

…

He is going to be a hero. He is going to get respected.

…

He...

He suddenly questions whether he should really be here right now. No, what is he even thinking? Slowly, that shred of doubt turns into worry as the realization truly hits him this time: how alone he actually is. There is no Dream or Ink, who would help Blue out in case something happens. No one would even know about it... Was this solo mission thing... really a smart idea after all?

…

But... he cannot allow himself to doubt now, of all situations. If he is not doing this wholeheartedly, not with full conviction, then this mission is destined to fail. If Blue backs off now, everything will just stay the same, but he wants things to change. If he just keeps believing in himself, then everything will turn out fine. True heroes are not supposed to lose after all-

The sudden noise of a running motor makes the small skeleton jump. When he carefully looks up from his hiding place, he watches a black car arriving and stopping next to the van. Someone gets out, someone huge. However, Blue can only see his back from his position. Well, other things he can determine are his clothes: a red beret, a light brown shirt, all creased and partially tucked in his brown pants and partially sticking out (how sloppy!), and- ...Wowzers, how very bizarre. That guy is also wearing some kind of gauntlet, made out of metal with several spiky edges and some wires hanging out of it, while his free right arm reveals the fact that he is indeed a skeleton too. Besides a plate, apparently a metal one too, is covering the top left of his skull. Even the human waiting for him seems to be frightened by his appearance, however, he quickly collects himself and starts the conversation.

...Great. Blue cannot understand them properly from here, only single words there and then. But he needs to know what they are talking about so he can determine whether they are up to no good or not! These damn background noises of the nearby factories! And can they not speak a bit louder?! It would be really frustrating if his mission failed because of acoustic problems! That would be downright embarrassing!!

He groans quietly. Perhaps there is another hiding spot nearby where Blue could understand them better? But the only possibility he sees is... well, one of the two cars over there. That would be a risky move, to say the least.

...But what else is Blue supposed to do? Risking things is part of bravery too. If a real and super-skilled city guard were here, they would probably go for it, would they not? Would Dream do it?? If yes, then Blue must too. So why can he not move an inch right now? For some reason, an ominous premonition is holding him back. How strange. He keeps staring at the new stranger.

Suddenly the human goes to the back of the van, opening its doors to check something. Meanwhile, the skeleton starts looking around him... kind of sluggishly.

When he is about to turn his head, Blue quickly ducks.

How close this just was! His bones will not stop rattling!! But luckily enough, his reflexes are not letting him down! Mweheh!

…

…

Can Blue look up again? After several moments of staring at the garbage bag in front of his face, still sweating nervously, Blue very carefully takes a peek.

...Eh. The other skeleton has vanished. How odd. How can a big guy like him move around so quiet-

A cold grip on Blue's shoulder makes him turn around. The round red eyelight glaring at him is the only thing the small skeleton can register before the other picks him up and pushes him harshly against the nearby wall, causing Blue to yelp.

While the metal-covered hand keeps squeezing him painfully, all the small skeleton is able to do is staring at the towering figure, too paralyzed to move or even speak. A sharp grin is stretched across the stranger's face, looking like it got stuck in place. His left eye is a bloody red, focused intently on his captive, as he is also wearing a weird eyepatch with a... small telescope thing in it? It keeps zooming in and out with a little 'zzzzz' sound.

The stranger inspects the trembling Blue until his ever-moving pupil suddenly stops.

...Is he staring at his badge now?

…

His grip becomes weaker and weaker until he releases the small skeleton entirely.

„...Leave,“ the stranger demands.

When Blue is still not able to move, the other skeleton takes a big step back. Hesitantly, he pushes himself off the wall, slowly removing himself from the scene while the other keeps following him with his gaze, making Blue shudder.

„And...“ The small skeleton flinches when he hears the stranger speak up behind him, and so he turns around. „...Keep quiet about this, will ya? Might've a problem otherwise.“ When Blue does not answer, he stresses more harshly, „Understood?“

Blue nods eagerly before he proceeds to leave. After turning around the next corner, he increases his pace until he reaches his home, shameful thoughts of his cowardice invading his mind.

The nagging feeling on his neck remains all the way through, as if someone is still watching him...

***

Three skeletons were wading through thick snow in a moderately dark forest, Ink leading casually the way, Dream looking around nervously and Blue trying his very best to stomp through the white layer with his short legs. Suddenly, the former stopped.

„What is it, Ink?“ Dream inquired.

„I think I finally figured it out,“ Ink responded as he turned around, his face beaming. „We're completely lost!“

„Yes, I could have told you that five minutes ago,“ the guardian said and sighed. „I wish I would have your good mood right now. This place is tiring me...“

„Nah, wouldn't necessarily call it 'good mood' but... 'not-so-bad mood'!“ Ink looked around him although the whirling snowflakes limited everyone's sights. „So it's still somewhere straight ahead?“

„Yes, I believe so.“

„You 'believe'?“

„I... somehow start to doubt myself after all,“ Dream admitted quietly. „It's strange. We already were in the center of this negative energy several times, but saw nothing. And it seems to change its location constantly.“

„Also, this universe is rather peaceful in general, is it not?“ Blue added. „I at least did not see anything suspicious.“

„You are right. That's why I'm wondering why this foreign aura occured in a place like this,“ Dream replied before looking at Ink again. „Did Core say anything to you regarding all of this?“

„Eh, not really, I guess?“ Ink scratched his head as he tried to remember. „I believe they said something like that it didn't matter right now?“

„So they know something after all, but are telling you nothing?“

Ink shrugged. „Guess yeah. Always hard to tell what they're thinking, though.“

„Sooo... are we continuing our search??“ Blue questioned as he and Ink stared quizzically at Dream.

After pondering about it, the guardian sighed. „Perhaps we should-“ However, in the middle of his sentence, his eyes suddenly widened and as he began to stagger, so Blue quickly gave him hold. „M-My brother has arrived.“

His eyelights becoming exclamation marks, Ink asked, „Where?“

„Near the negative source. I believe he's curious about it too...“

„Is he going to attack us...?“ Blue inquired.

„If we stay here any longer, very likely,“ Dream answered. „...But he might try to raid this universe afterwards if we don't do anything.“

„Well, then let's just do the first attack and get an advantage, huh?“ Ink recommended as he took his giant paintbrush. „But uh, can you even fight? 'cause you look kinda pale.“

„It's okay,“ Dream assured, smiling weakly. „The amount of negativity was just a bit, um, overwhelming, but this won't me hinder me from fighting.“

„Okay then!“ Ink responded before turning his attention towards the other skeleton. „And-“

„I will fight too, of course!!“ Blue intervened eagerly. „I know what you are thinking right now: that I am not as experienced as you in that matter. However!! I just compensate it with enough willpower and determination!!“

„...Are you really sure?“ Dream asked worriedly. „You don't have to, after all.“

„Nonsense!!“ Blue exclaimed. „I might not be a royal guard in this world... um, actually not even in my own yet... but!! Regardless the place, my principals always stay the same! So of course I am going to help you!!“

„Well, how can we say 'no' if he's that motivated?“ Ink replied, chuckling.

„...Alright. Of course we would appreciate your help,“ Dream agreed before giggling too.. „Also, your optimism is really contagious. It puts me more at ease. However, you must promise me that in case it gets too dangerous for you, you will withdraw from the battle, okay?“

„Do not worry!“ Blue answered confidently. „And I will surely not disappoint you!“

***

Blue awakened with an awful headache. It took him some time to recover and truly register his surroundings: He was still in the snowy forest, several bones were lying around or sticking in the ground or trees, and some spots were melted where the blasters had hit. Had Blue really been knocked out? How unspectacular. And where were the others? Perhaps the battle had been moved to somewhere else in the meantime.

After standing up with his wonky knees, the small skeleton looked around, a feeling of uneasiness washing over him.

…

He believed to hear noises in the distance. So this was where Blue should go, yes? Carefully, he started walking towards this direction.

...Had he been a burden after all? He hoped he had not stood in the way of his friends or anything... That would be the worst. Blue just wanted to help, but being knocked out so early... how shameful.

The snow crunched under his boots.

Perhaps he should have listened to Dream? But how would he be able to look at himself in the mirror ever again if he abandoned his friends in need?! If Blue really was a burden... then he just had to put more effort into his actions to change that.

The snow crunched louder.

Weird, these thoughts darkening his mind... Blue should better try to regain his positive attitude from before, but it suddenly had gotten so difficult...

He stopped. However, the crunching sound continued. Behind him.

...Why could he not move? All of a sudden the fear had just grabbed him, holding him in place. His trembling body refused to move.

The footsteps behind him abruptly stopped as well. This dominant presence-

„Have you lost your little friends on your way? How unfortunate,“ the voice spoke, the words coming out so fluently. As fluent as poison. „Because it seems as though you can't even find the strength to run away now.“

Out of the corner of his eye, Blue noticed something. A black tendril-

***

Gasping loudly, Blue awakens. Wowzers, what a nightmare! This must be the fault of yesterday's nerves that brought him that bad dream... yesterday when he ran away like a coward. The day has just started and yet, this must be the very first thing that comes into Blue's mind in the morning. Sighing, he takes his dream diary from his little nightstand nearby.

...Does he actually have to record this dream too? He rather does not want to remember it at all since it will become an annoying reminder of his own weakness. But it is part of his duty, after all...

However, while trying to recall the dream's events, Blue freezes in his movements before he can even grab the pencil. The sudden memory of the voice at the end makes him overthink his decision once more.

...Is he really fearing a figure from a dream? Even now?

…

Maybe just this one time, Blue is going to make an exception and not write it down after all.

***

„Um,“ Dream suddenly utters, watching the other with a worried expression from his desk.

„Hm? Did you say anything?“ Blue inquires as he looks up from his papers.

„You're still upset about something,“ he states. „You already were yesterday, and now too. Is something bothering you?“

„Uh, well... maybe it is because I did not sleep very well the last days?“

Of course he has not told Dream about that one incident with the dangerous-looking skeleton yet. Why should he? Blue does not know if they really were doing something bad or not or what they were even doing in the first place. Also, despite that stranger acting... a bit aggressive towards Blue, he could have been just angry of him for spying on them secretly? You do not have to be a criminal to find that unpleasant, after all. Although his warning at the end... it makes him shiver every time he recalls it...

Additionally, the main thing Dream would learn from this story is the fact that Blue acted recklessly and cowardly. He certainly would be disappointed of him...

Before Dream can open his mouth, Blue quickly intervenes, „Um, also! There is another thing I have been wondering about for quite some time, but I did not know if I should bring this up or not.“

„And what is it?“

„Well, so I have been looking more into Ink's Dreamlogs again, yes? And I do not mean his silly novelization but his original notes! Also... lately, I have been thinking about my own dreams too... and the fact how strange it is that we get to see people whom we have not seen before and meet in reality later.“

„Okay?“ Dream answers as he gives the other an irritated look.

„So! Long story short! The thing I have been wondering about is... could that gang boss be your brother?“

Surprised by that question, he blinks several times. „I... yes, he is.“ After yet another hesitant pause, Dream continues, „I've always found it odd that he sometimes appears in Ink's stories and asked him about that once, but he just shrugged. Well, I assumed he must have taken him as... some sort of inspiration, so I didn't question it any further. It's also a hard topic for me to talk about though.“

„So... it actually is that Nightmare, yes?“

He nods. „And you concluded that we are brothers because of your dreams? That is... quite strange.“

„Just yet another proof how mysterious this entire case is! But well, let's forget about that aspect for now.“ A pause. „So may I ask how it is between the two of you? Since he is... uh, you know...“

„Well, I haven't seen him in years, actually,“ Dream confesses, now twirling his thumbs nervously. „I have heard around three years ago that a certain 'Nightmare' and his gang have been causing trouble in the city...“

„And you think this is your brother?“

„Some of the descriptions I've heard seem to match. Also... sometimes, and this happens rather randomly whenever I am patrolling or just casually walking in the city, I have the feeling as if I am sensing his presence for a moment.“

„But I thought you cannot determine another person's identity by their emotions alone??“

„Usually no. But some can feel... so unique that I can guess at the very least. And my brother's... well...“ His expression turns sad. „...it is quite memorable for sure.“

„Um...“

„It's okay to ask questions. I would be curious too,“ Dream assures.

„Well, I am indeed curious to know what kind of a person he is!“ A rather frightening one if Blue goes by their dreams, but he might be different in reality, right? „Or maybe how you remember him?“

„Uh, let's see what I could tell you...“ After glancing at the ceiling and thinking, Dream eventually answers, „He used to love reading. Sometimes, he would stay awake the entire night just to finish a book he really liked. However, it was always up to me to help him correct his sleep rhythm afterwards.“ A small smile appears on his face. „Um, he was kind of smug sometimes? I remember whenever he managed to climb up to the top of the tree in our garden, he looked down at me and smirked while ignoring my worried calls.“

„So even back then, you were super overprotective!“ Blue states, amused by Dream's slightly frustrated expression that follows.

„Come on, you don't even know how high that tree was! Besides, Nighty had already managed to fall down a couple of times and broke some ribs!“

Blue giggles. „Of course you would choose such a cute nickname for your brother!“

Upon hearing that, Dream averts his embarrassed gaze. „I-It's a perfectly normal nickname...“

„It's fine! Continue please!“

„Uh, okay. So... there was this one lullaby from our mother that I used to sing to him when we were small and he couldn't sleep... although I still did it even when we got older, but Nighty was never the one asking for it because he would be too embarrassed by that.“ As his gaze wanders toward his cape, Dream eagerly continues, „Ah yes, we once created our own symbols; an orange sun for me and for him a violet moon.“

A violet moon. How adorable.

…

…

...Eh. Wait a moment. Does that mean... that the violet moon on the map actually stands for... and that all this time, Blue has been patrolling in areas where...

...Oh boy.

„Blue?“ Dream utters. „What's the matter? Why are you feeling... afraid, all of a sudden?“

„Uh, well!!“ he exclaims as he stands up. „Just, um, remembered a rather unpleasant thing regarding... uuuh... anyway! There is nothing to worry about! If it is fine by you, I would like to stretch my legs for a bit and catch some fresh air!“

„O-Of course,“ Dream replies, perplexed. „Do you like to talk about it-?“

„It is okay! I will be back in a minute!“ With that, Blue leaves the room in a hurry.

…

Oh stars. A terrible thought has crossed Blue's mind: What if that skeleton he encountered recently is actually part of his gang? Blue did not want to admit it at first, but he seemed... kind of familiar?? In a way?? It is hard to tell since skeletons already tend to look quite alike and it is difficult to remember those details, but now that he thinks about it... that guy was in that dream too, or not? When Nightmare attacked that one universe? Without even having the dream written down, it keeps following him since days nonetheless.

Blue was able to confirm that they are brothers thanks to the dreams, so if that skeleton is a part of his gang there, then that means he would be too in reality??

It could be. It could be not. The uncertainty itself is frightening enough.

...But why does Blue feel so afraid all of a sudden? Nothing serious happened to him that evening, after all. That guy even let him go. So even if he truly is a part of his gang, there is nothing to particularly worry about, right? Well, as long as Blue does not bother them anymore, he presumes...

Really, what has gotten into him? Of course he knew that there would be the possibility of encountering someone of their infamous gang during one of his patrols. Plus, even if he knew what the violet moon stood for three weeks ago when he looked at the maps, he still might have done the same thing. So why-?

„Because it seems as though you can't even find the strength to run away now.“

...No, Blue should not be frightened of a figure he only vaguely knows from his dreams. How silly it would be... especially after hearing all those heartwarming things as Dream talked about his brother (maybe he might be not that bad after all?? You never know).

There is nothing to be afraid of. Everything is fine. Blue should just... take a break from his patrols and calm down. Then this feeling will be gone sooner or later.

***

The past few days, Blue feels... watched? Whenever he is looking out of windows, walking outside or just relaxing somewhere, like in Miss Muffet's bakery for example, he believes to see a glowing red eye for a brief moment. Then when he takes a second glance, already expecting to spot that familiar sharp grin too, he has to realize that nobody is there. Right now, sitting in said bakery and slurping his milkshake, Blue cannot help but occasionally look outside to make sure that he is not crazy.

Really, this is getting ridiculous. His paranoid thinking is leading him nowhere, just giving him constant stress. Nobody is there. Blue has already checked countless times. His silly fears and worries are making him see things that are not there.

...If just one unfortunate encounter with a creepy guy is enough to make him feel that way, is he even worth of being a city guard? Years have passed and Blue has managed to present himself in a confident, proud way... but in actuality, nothing has changed. He is still the same easy-to-frighten skeleton as before. Neither going through the annual traineeship nor constantly putting on a fake brave facade can change that fact.

Maybe... Blue has set his goals way too high after all.

***

Returning from his work, Error is surprised to see Blue sitting and waiting in front of his house door. When the latter spots the black skeleton, he immediately stands up, smiling brightly. „Good day to you, friend of mine!!“

„I knOw yOu'rE uSuaLly eArly aS heLl, bUt I'vE juSt coMe fRoM wOrK,“ Error states while gesturing him to step aside.

„Well, I am very much aware of that! The thing is that my brother is not home yet so I thought I could visit you earlier.“

„WhaT hAs thAt oNe thInG to dO wiTh tHe oTheR?“

„Uh, just...“ he suddenly stutters, hesitating to speak any further at first. „...I did not want to be alone right now, I suppose?“

After staring at Blue with yet another baffled expression, Error eventually opens the door, saying, „WhaTevEr. JusT coMe iN.“

Soon afterwards, his guest is sitting at the table and watching the other putting food from yesterday into the microwave and waiting. „So, how was your work??“

„As AlwAyS.“

„...Well then.“

Silence.

„...yOuRs?“

„Good, actually! Everything is good,“ Blue promptly responds, nodding. „Mostly office work, patrolling now and then... you know.“

„mhM,“ he mumbles.

Silence.

„Error? May I ask you something?“ Blue inquires.

„DepEndS on The qUesTioN.“

„In your opinion: What do you think which qualities make a good city guard?“

Surprised by that question, Error does not answer immediately. „HoW shOulD i kNow? Not BeInG coMpleTely DumB, bEinG somEwhAt cOMpeTenT, BeiNg aBle To fiGhT wHen iT maTtErs, I guEsS,“ he explains before jokingly adding, „Are You AskInG mE bEcaUse yoU wAnt tO kNow iF 'tHe mAGniFicEnt wAnnAbe' is WorThY in My eYes Or nOt?“

As it seems, Error did not expect the lack of a witty response as he watches Blue, who is suddenly staring at the table in silence.

„You know what?“ he speaks up eventually, receiving a curious look from the other. „As a child, I heard the phrase, 'If you want to get respect, then it's up to you to earn it' and the past month, I have really tried it by... well... patrolling a bit more, you know? But I have come to realize that until now, I have been imagining things to go way easier than they actually did. Like Ink, Dream and me becoming a team... automatically gathering courage by just passing the exam... or getting respect by proving my strength and bravery.“

Thinking about that scary figure again, his watching eye, his iron grip and his last warning words makes Blue suddenly shudder. „B-But there's nothing to prove if strength and bravery have never been there in the first place, right? The mere idea of me becoming a city guard... seems so s-silly... That's why you and the others find my efforts so funny, yes? I-I get it now. It's r-really funny...“

As his tears begin to flow, he hastily wipes them away, still too ashamed to look up. After another moment of silence, a bowl of soup is being placed firmly in front of Blue, making him flinch in surprise.

„I'lL thRow YoU ouT if yOu'Re gOing tO crY in My oWn hOusE,“ Error warns as he takes a second bowl. „And Don'T evEn trY tO taLk aBouT thAt kiNd of StuFf wiTh mE bEcAusE i Don'T haVe aNy cLue hoW to ReSponD to ThiS.“

„What kind of stuff?“

„EmoTioNal sTuFf.“ Error puts his portion in the microwave too. „You CouLd've TolD thE sQuiD inSteaD... wAit, ForGet iT, tHat's ActuAllY a TerRibLe iDeA. ThEn thAt DreAm gUy oR yoUr bRothEr. So wHy mE?“

„I guess I just felt like telling you?“ Blue replies quietly. „Unlike Dream or Stretch, I felt like you would be more honest to me?“

„WhaT dO yoU meAn bY tHat?“

„Well, they would never openly admit that they think I'm weak,“ he explains. „Eh, I mean, it's also not very nice to hear constantly things like 'wannabe guard' or 'wimp', but I think I prefer someone telling me those things straight to my face instead of being secretive about it or doing that behind my back.“

„I'm InsuLtinG eVeryOne, sO dOn'T fEel sO sPecIal aBouT iT.“

„Yes, I got it, of course!“ Blue answers, giggling. „And I would still like to offer you my help to get out of this habit!“

„NevEr,“ Error refuses as he finally sits down with his portion. „And, Um...“

„Yes?“

Reluctantly, he continues, „...AttRibUteS likE 'wEakNeSs' or 'cOwardIce' dOn't neceSsaRilY haVe to Be pErmAneNt. I oRigiNalLy tHouGht aFteR i Had LaShed Out at You tHat oNe tIme, yOu woUld bE wAy tOo sCareD to ComE baCk aGaiN. But YoU diD, wHicH wAs... kInd oF bOld, I gUeSs-“ All of a sudden, Error almost chokes on his food as he looks at Blue's teary eyes. „WhaT wRonG thInG diD i SaY aGaiN?!“

„Oh, kind office man... you're actually trying to comfort me,“ Blue murmurs and as he takes a spoon of soup, more tears appear which he tries to blink away. With a full mouth, he utters, „And thish shoup ish sho good... thank you...“

„Are yOu sErioUsly GoiNg tO crY ovEr soUp nOw?!“ Error exclaims, glitching in disbelief.

„No, crying over your kindness!!“

„Oh My gOd. JuSt fIniSh it QuICklY so wE dOn'T miSs tHe sHow.“

„Aye!!“

***

The next day, Blue feels far more refreshed. Even Dream recognized his change and treated him to another apple juice (seriously, his habit to spoil others!). Of course his worries have not just vanished over night, but his time with Error yesterday has cheered him up a bit, at least. Perhaps soon, Blue might be able to try another patrol round again (in a different area, this time).

On his way home, he receives a phone call from his brother to which he immediately responds. „Well, hello there. Slacking off during your work?“

„Legitimate break, I swear,“ Stretch promises (without any élan, as always!!).

„It is actually convenient that you call now: What would you like for evening today?“ Blue inquires.

„You know I'm not that picky. I'm fine with anything.“

„...There will be no honey,“ he states strictly.

„...Damn, bro,“ Stretch utters. „I'm still waiting for the day on which you're going to make tacos with honey.“

„That day shall never come!!“ Blue proclaims.

„Hm, how sad. Well, I called 'cause I just got a random idea.“

„And which one?“

„So after work, I've got another jam session planned. My idea was that I ask you if you're in the mood for accompanying me this time?“

„And I am really allowed to watch?“

„Yeah, I don't see a reason why not.“