Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

This was it.

Finally, found a decent place to set everything up right.

The place was like an old Inn, the Gramma had told Sans over the phone. Just remodeled to make as a large enough home for her and her family. Needed work as the old Gramma said, but hey... Place was cheap, had large enough room for him and his alternate selves to house for a while, along with the fact it was away from the Anti-monster activists and the Bitty problem currently endangering many with a gorgeous forest surrounding the place. No neighbors for miles, a stream was near, it was peaceful... Everything Sans, and a few others, wanted and more. 

Sans had chatted with his, what people would think, ‘Cousins’ about it all.

Stretch was especially on board, agreeing he didn’t feel safe in his current area, and decided to pitch in to help pay for the current large complex. Edge and Red had no choice but to bunk with them, their money was tight enough as it was with the destruction that happened in their section, but it felt better to group up and stay close. Razz and Mutt would have been by themselves if not for the fact they were still learning how to settle in this world. That also brings Slick and Gray stuck with them, who arrived only a few months after them. 

Yeah, some would have to leave a good hour early before reaching their work, but they all understood it was for a limited time. Hell, Sans was hoping to remake the place and sell it afterwards, earn a smaller house for him and his bro. Split the profit with the others so they can do the same. Yeah, that sounds nice and Sans liked his privacy.

A little bit of work? No skin off his bones.

Sans sighed into his palms with frustration.

He should have known better than to just trust pictures .

The lodge looked twenty times worse than what he had seen. Boards needed to be replaced, along with the windows, the roof, stone that lined the bottom and jagged out harshly… Good Asgore, he did not realize how much work it actually needed . Where there nests up in some of the windows? No, in the walls beside the windows.

“Classic, th’hell’ja get a dump fer? bettah off where we were, gotta be honest.” Red said, scratching his chin.

“bud, th’ house was pretty much down to th’ ground after th’ party the two hotheads did. ‘sides, landlord kicked us out due ta fearin’ it’d crumble more.” Sans shoved his hands into his pockets with an annoyed huff.

“th’ asshole was a monstaphob anyways. had our rent higher.” Stretch said, staring at the place with a studying glare.

“DO NOT WORRY BROTHER!” Paps said behind Sans, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. “ALL IT NEEDS IS SOME OF OUR AMAZING TOUCH, AND IT SHOULD BE AS GOOD AS NEW! DARE I SAY EVEN BETTER!” He sang.

Sans felt a bit lighter as his brother was radiating positivity.

Yeah, they could do it. Not like it was just Sans and Paps here. There’s about 4 other alternatives selves here; All to do the job right.

“I AGREE! WITH ALL OF US WORKING TOGETHER, WE SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE THIS PLACE SUITABLE WITHIN THE WEEK! MAYBE SOONER? I CANNOT WAIT! WONDER WHAT IT ALL NEEDS?” Blue spoke with just the same positivity as Paps.

“well, seems ta need some good sweat an’ dust, elbow grease, an’ a shit ton of repairs.” Stretch drawled, rolling a sucker in his teeth.

“PAPY! WATCH IT, YOU!” Blue puffed up. “AND VERY FUNNY! WE NEED TO INSPECT THE DAMAGES DONE AND SEE WHAT NEEDS FIXING PROPERLY!”

“I HAVE LITTLE HOPE THE INSIDE IS BETTER OFF THAN THE OUTSIDE.” Edge scoffed. “I EXPECT TO SEE LARGE RATS RUNNING AROUND THIS PLACE. RACCOONS, EVEN? IF ANYONE OPENS ANYTHING, BE PREPARED FOR RODENTS OF ANY KIND!”

“PLEASE, LOOKS TO BE AS IF WOLVES LIVE IN THERE. JUST LOOK AT THE DOOR! WIDE OPEN AND OFF THE HANDLES! WINDOWS ARE IN SHAMBLES, AS WELL. HOW LONG DID THAT OLD BROD LEAVE THIS PLACE FOR?” Razz growled, glancing at all the openings. “BIRDS AND OTHER DISGUSTING FLYING MAMMALS WILL BE IN THERE NO DOUBT.”

“no doubt it’ll-”

“ DON’T. ”

“drive us batty. ” Sans couldn’t help it with a snicker.

Razz howled as he stormed quickly off, Mutt following as the rest of the guys began to bicker back and forth.

Blue and Papyrus were already taking out their phones to jot down what would need what as Slick was already off while Gray was listening to Blue and Papyrus. Edge was not amused as he sighed heavily and leaned against his car, Red kept his arms crossed as he glared at the place like it was poisonous as he stood beside Sans right while Stretch stood by Sans left, holding out a smoke which he gratefully took. 

Sans could just feel his sockets close, this is going to be a very long day…

Chapter Text

In the end, the guys split up to cover more ground.

Gray, Razz, Red, and Edge agreed to staying outside to list the current damages on outskirts of the property as Papyrus, Blue, Mutt, Stretch, and Sans were going to see the damages that were closer around the home. Mutt, normally not one to split from his brother, was given an 'order' to 'Stay With These Bumbling Idiots And Don't Skip Over Anything' while Slick-... Slid off somewhere.

Though he was still new, Slick wasn't going to issue any problems. 

His brother, Gray?... Honestly, he was just hyperactive, a little insane, but he wasn't a danger-... Yet. He was still being observed. Actions didn't have much of a meaning and he did more harm to himself than anyone around. 

Razz and Mutt were the ones needing to be watched closely…

Razz instigates fights with the whole house, primarily Edge, probably because they both radiate that killing intent naturally. While Mutt enjoys creeping around silently, to the point Sans couldn't even sense him around... 

Thank the Stars, their Royalty gave them orders to be under surveillance under Sans and Stretch- Or rather, Blue and Papyrus until they prove they're calm enough to merge into their new society like how they did with Edge and Red.

“welp, text th’crew th' lists ya guys find tha' need fixin'.” Sans drawled before everyone scattered.

“WE ARE CAPABLE OF DEALING WITH WHATEVER ISSUE THERE IS, CLASSIC. DO NOT TREAT US LIKE IDIOTS.” Edge rubbed his temple as he got to his cars door.

“jus’ sayin’ a heads up would be nice, Edge. don’ lose yers now.” Sans huffed back... Never cared for his attitude.

"CALLING THE KETTLE BLACK AS USUAL, CLASSIC." Edge retorted, giving Sans a deadly glare as he opened that door. "LET ME REMIND YOU, I WASN'T THE ONE WHO DIDN'T DO MY RESEARCH ON A HOUSE THAT WILL BE HOUSING US ALL, ISSUING IN WASTING TIME THAT MANY OF US DO NOT HAVE THE LUXURY OF SPENDING ON FIXING UP A PILE OF ROT AND DECAY... SO, THANK YOU, CLASSIC- FOR GIVING US A HEADS UP ON ALL THIS WORK WE WILL BE DOING." He spoke with venom, utterly angry at this whole process.

...Ouch... Sans hid a flinch to that; Edge had a point and-... Ahh, who could blame Edge for being so upset. Sure the rest were feeling like that, too...

"ey, ey, c'mon..." Red spoke dully. "yeah, s'a dump, bu' we've lived in worse conditions, bro. sides... who knows wha' kinda good skeleton system tha' house has, huh? might got some good structure... b'worth a look'it..." Red gave his brother a nudge to his hip with his elbow, causing his brother to groan. "jus' like us, huh?"

"agree thare- could b' worse? jus' a huge crumble o' debris left n then we'd b'outta luck n' outta money." Stretch spoke, stretching his arms high above his skull as he chewed his lollipop stick before resting his forearms on the top of his skull easily. "how bad could it honestly b'?... some beehives round? some forest inside n decoratin' th'walls?... sounds kinda cool if it came predone wit' m'own built in honey supply, heh..."

Edge rolled his eyelights at them all, quick to open a medium cage within. "YOU CAN ALL THINK SO FOOLISHLY AS YOU WISH... HOWEVER, I AM NOT HOLDING MY SOUL STILL FOR SUCH OUTCOMES."

With that cage door opening, a pure black Norwegian Forest cat came out easily enough.

"OH, BRINGING DOOMIE OUT ALREADY, EDGE?" Papyrus was curious what he was doing?

"INDEED. SHE WILL BE USEFUL IF THERE ARE ANY CREATURES WHO ARE TAKING COVER IN PLACES I CANNOT REACH." Edge beamed with pride to his feline companion, who he gave a soft head scratch, before turning to Papyrus with a dull look. "...HOW MANY TIMES HAVE I TOLD YOU TO USE HER FULL NAME, CREAMPUFF?"

"THAT ISN'T FAIR- RED USES THE NAME DOOMIE ALL THE TIME!" Blue stepped in, giving Edge a huff.

"s' cause m' family, Baby Blue." Red quipped with a laugh. "call her Doomie when big bad ain't around- saves us all a screechin' headthrob." 

"WHAT!? BROTHER, DO NOT TELL THEM THAT! NO WONDER CREAMPUFF SLIPPED UP!" Edge growled at his brother, though everyone else began to chuckle.

Doomie, or Doomfanger, is a stunning and long haired feline with eyes of embers. She has some part of her ear torn off, a scar running down her one eye, with a red leather collar and golden spike studs. A lone golden bell hangs, along with her tags of Edge's information. If you didn't know any better, the cat looks just how Edge sounds- Deadly, able to rip you apart with sharp claws, and you would think she was a total snob of a cat...

But thankfully, that isn't how she is personality wise at all; Though the thing was a beast being the size of a medium dog, Edge trained her to become a guard cat and yet she was shockingly well behaved and so sweet. Sans was surprised by how she was so affectionate and charming after she felt safe around others, constantly cuddle up with any of the guys and even ride along their shoulders. Just purring away, giving them surprise licks if she felt like it. 

And so goofy... Sans snickered to himself when he heard what sounded like a dog barking in Edge's last home on a visitation, only for Doomfanger mockingly barking out the window and suddenly turning back into meows once caught. 

Sans became a bit attached to the sweet girl after that, really.

"ya really gunna let her roam?" Sans spoke, looking up at Edge with worry. "who knows wha's all around here, it might hurt her paws..." 

"DOOMFANGER ISN'T FRAGILE, CLASSIC." Edge bit back with sigh. "DUE TO ALL OF OUR ADVENTURES BACK IN THE UNDERGROUND, SHE'S SMARTER THAN YOUR AVERAGE CAT, AS WELL. SHE WALKED ON BROKEN GLASS MORE THAN I CAN COUNT, EACH TIME PULLING OUT A SHARD AT A TIME! OF COURSE SHE'S LEARN TO AVOID THAT, AND SHE WILL AVOID ANYTHING THAT REMOTELY LOOKS OFF. DON'T FRET OVER HER, YOU'LL RUIN MY CAT!" Edge growled before snapping to his awaiting cat. “DOOMFANGER, PATROL AROUND THE PERIMETER AND SUBUE ANY CREATURE YOU FIND. UNDERSTAND?”

Doomie gave a mew in response, quick to do just that where she deemed fit while Edge walked into the woods behind the house.

Sans couldn't help but smile; Edge was rough around the edges, but it was obvious how much he cared for those he deemed family. Always unnerved Sans by how opposite he was of his own brother, but in a way…

"he's hilarious." Stretch pipped up. "funny ta think it was s'many years ago n he woulda ripped ya a new one if we s'muched spoke ta his lil'critter." 

"He Has Come A Long Way." Blue spoke, rubbing the back of his neck with a chuckle. "I'm Just Glad He Doesn't Explode So Irregularly Now! That's The Huge Bonus!"

"yeah, he's a real bone-head ." Red groaned, slumping his hands into his pockets. "uuuuugggghhhh, bu' i don' wanna deal wit' possibilities o'squatters round th'houuuuse.... this fuckin' suuuuuuuuucks."

A chuckle came behind Red, as a skeleton clawed hand grabbed his shoulder. 

Red looked up, nervously with sweat beading down his skull as he saw Mutt glaring down at him with that twisted smile and his burnt orange eyelights blazing under his hood. 

" fuck -- fuck, stop yer bullshit, Mutt!" Red growled, shoving his hand off his shoulder. "yer-... nah, fuck this, i'd ratha deal wit' squatters now than yer creepy ass! fuck off wit'cha!" Red flipped Mutt off, who only got a chuckle as he was quick to walk away.

Sans and Stretch couldn't help but silence their laughs as Mutt turned his glare to them all; They were all still getting used to him, but-

"stars, could'ya tune it down some?" Stretch spoke, bristling some. "yer lil'demented, ain'cha?"

Mutt could have chuckled, could have growled, but the looming skeleton stayed silent... 

The fact Sans felt his own sins crawl on his shoulders was something hard to do. If anyone was to be watched, it was Mutt... He just radiated killing intent no matter what way someone looked at him.

It's been months, you would have thought he'd have settled at least a little bit… Out of all the Papyrus’, Mutt had to be the one who was so far off… 

Then again, so was Razz…

"U-UH... Y-YES, SO, INSIDE?" Blue was brave enough to speak, Mutt seemed to ease up and give him a nod. "WONDERFUL! COOL! A-ALRIGHT! LET'S GO!" 

"A-AGREED! LET'S GO INSIDE- SO, WHO WANTS WHAT FLOORS? IF WE ALL SPLIT UP, IT SHOULD BE QUICKER!" Papyrus seemed to have found his own voice, everyone walking to the building. 

...So eerie that Mutt was walking behind them all like he was a cattle dog herding sheep.

Well, let's get this done and over with.

     ...It was...

Actually not that bad on the inside.

Sans and the others couldn’t understand it; Where the windows were broken, no glass could be found around it, including both inside or outside. Though exploring more, there was a pile of glass... Seemed the floor was mainly cleaned up from other stuff, piles of wood and debris stocked in corners or out of what they could only tell was little pathways.

Stranger yet, was that every door was opened so far.

Wide open, actually.

...Something wasn’t right.

Everyone had split up and did their own searches. Papyrus did a quick walk through the first floor, Blue went upstairs on the second, while Stretch went up to the third. Mutt went to the basement to find the fuse box as Sans just tried to look for more clues as to see if there were little guests inside. 

Despite a few trashed things from the house, there were more feathers and strings strewn about, like there was something playing with it... 

Oddly enough, Sans has entered his first room and there were bullets in neat piles… But nothing like blood or bullet holes were in the walls, nothing said there was a drug dealing shoot out. Monster dust was’t anywhere, either. Though clearly, something had flattened the bullet casings or bent them in a weird way. Would it be possible someone had a bag of casings and were just… Screwing around with them?

Who in their right minds would do that, though? Then leave them in a neat pile in the corner?

Sans phone began to blow up from the others from outside. Nothing much to say besides the growing list they had to take a look at, along with some furniture that was more than trashed. 

Then Slick actually messaged, something about finding an old abandoned shed deeper in the woods, though he hasn’t yet said what he found in it yet... Doubted he would. 

Blue and Stretch said all the doors upstairs were opened up fully on each level, furniture looking like its dry rotted, but otherwise used by some creature… Like a raccoon curled up on the cushions or something. 

“WOWIE! THIS PLACE SEEMS SO ROOMY, BROTHER!” Papyrus spoke with glee, excitement just radiating off him. “YOU DID GREAT TO FIND SUCH A SPOT FOR US, YOU KNOW! I WOULD HAVE PICKED THIS OUT, MYSELF! SO MUCH POTENTIAL!! IT'S LIKE WE'RE STARTING BACK IN SNOWDIN AGAIN, NYEH-HEH!”

“tha’s great, Paps. glad ta see yer gettin’ yer hands dirty .” Sans chuckled to see Pap’s gloves just covered in dust and grime from the houses old age.

He felt a little better that his brother seemed to be excited about this place, at least. 

“NYEH, UNLIKE YOU, BROTHER! BUT YES, INDEED.” Paps brushed his hands together, looking around the space with Sans. “SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK THE FIRST COURSE OF ACTION SHOULD BE?”

“guess we start dustin’ th’cobwebs and go from there, Paps.”

Huh?...

...The hell was that noise just now in the vent?

Sounded-

... Like something began to run off?

“i thin’ we might have’a mouse problem.” Stretch said, poppin’ downstairs beside Sans. “heard ‘em in th’ vents. sound heavy, really. fat rats, maybe?”

“huh… mice of ya ta inform us. anythin’ else at the top?” Classic asked.

“well, nothin’ really... feathers are scattered, along wit’ what looks ta be a few spots that look ta’be made for… like… some animal. squeaks an’ rustlin’ in th’ ceilin’, no pre-made honey makers sadly… other than tha’, nuthin’ i haven’t sent ya.” Stretch yawned, rubbing the back of his neck tiredly.

“don't think any of us could stand th'buzzlin’ noise of yer natural, self-makin’, honey machines, Stretch, heh…" Classic stared at Stretch with a puzzled look. "bu’, thas all a lil’strange, right?” 

“mm... oddly ‘nough, could be worse. least there ain’t rotten garbage. would seriously stink then.” Stretch played with his bare lollipop stick, twirling it mindlessly between his jaw

The two stood there, listening… The house was alive with Creampuffs soft humming and Blue’s footsteps up top. The house seemed alive somehow, the vents just shaking... 

Stretch was hoping it was just rusted old metal, of course they would have to redo those, too... Better just to gut the whole house, but-

...But that noise sounded so odd...

Both of their phones began to bing, bringing it out to see it was his brother, Blue.

Apparently the second floor had more work than they knew needed done… Damn, Stretch really missed that much decay? That wasn't what he saw... 

“tha’s yer brotha fer us.” Classic spoke, looking at his cellphone as it dinged left and right. “he’s a really observant guy, ain’t he?”

“yeah, tha’s how our Muffy managed ta raise em.” Stretch chuckled at his own phone. “Gotta put a hypanut t’work, y’know?”

“oh, ya don’ gotta tell m’ none…” Classic slumped in understanding. “i dunno wha’ i would’ve done if Grillby wouldn’ve helped m’ durin’ Paps rough stage, heh…”

"ehhh, prob' way more tired than ya look now." Stretch chuckled. "...know i prob' woulda ran up th'wall."

Just then, they both heard what sounded like a yelling whisper--

It sounded like someone fell?

No… Sounded like metal clanked down- Hard- On someone?

...But who would be here that wasn’t the guys?...

“...th’hell was that?” Stretch asked, following Classic close behind as they both walked to the sound.

“dunno, bu’ ya hear a collar?”

“don’ think it’s Doomie, do ya?”

“nah, cat’s collar is more-... louder, like Edge. tha’ noise s'different… softa…”

Before Stretch could agree, he ran into Classics back, stopping him as an audible click rang out in the porch room and a blur of odd color ran out the screen porch door.

Looking back to the vent-

...Well...

That was a very odd sight.

Stretch not only got a glimpse of skin and black fabric, but he could just barely make out a hidden figure in the darkness of the vent...

...That wasn’t what he thought it was, was it? 

No, they-... Blue, his own brother, made sure that nothing could even get out here, but then again… Edge said Classic didn't do his research well enough… 

...No-

No, Blue is very thorough with his...

Cats? Fine, it's possible. Bugs of all kinds? Why nooooot, a place with no human or monster would be bound to be overran with nature...

...Would be a reason as to why the whole place wasn't taken back just yet, though.

Giving Classic a quick glance, his suspicions were confirmed with that look of what Stretch could only say, ‘oh shit.’

Great.

No matter where they go, they couldn’t get away from anything, could they?

Classic’s chuckle brought Stretch out of his thoughts.

“can’t dodge forever, can we?” Classic sighed.

“...’fraid not.” Stretch groaned...

Maybe he could try and find that attic door again, that muffled cough from the vent made him groan internally though…

How wonderful!! 

This place seemed to be larger than the normal Underground Inns; It would make a magnificent hotel later on for so many-

Oh, a get away?? No, no, there wasn't many views... 

Oh! Perhaps they could make it into a Sanctuary home?? There was so much space, they could even build a small community around... This could be the starting point, since it holds twenty rooms and quite a few bathrooms! 

Would they all consider building a workout station and swimming pool?... He'll have to ask!

But with the ranging Anti-Monster and Anti-Human groups starting to spread, this could become a safe haven for those of both spaces!!

“SANS!” Papyrus spoke with energy, excitement as he came rushing to his brothers side. “SANS, THIS PLACE DOESN’T SEEM TO HAVE A SINGLE CREATURE HIDDEN WITHIN THESE CUPBOARDS! IT’S ASTOUNDING!”

The kitchen, though had holes they would have to patch up, along with repairing the rotting woods, held nothing but dust bunnies and curled paint. 

Papyrus was a little disappointed- He was expecting at least some sort of wild animal in the broken oven! But, alas, nothing… Even the dinning room was bare. 

He tried not to think of that nagging thought, however…

“yeah, it’s… pretty mice place, i’d say.” Sans answered, but curiosity raised his bone brow. “but ya sure ya haven’t-... seen anythin’, Paps?”

Didn't miss how Sans glanced at the vents, which were making terrible noise and suddenly so silent…

“HMM…” Papyrus thought for a moment, putting his hand on his chin while his other rested on his hip bone. “WELL, I BELIEVE I SAW AN ORANGE FELINE SOMEWHERE? PERHAPS I WAS JUST SEEING THINGS, BUT OTHER THAN THAT, NOTHING ELSE COMES TO MY MIND?” 

He didn't want to believe he saw a small figure in the vents earlier, how their eyes peered at him from behind the shrouded darkness… 

Did see an orange cat take off though from the kitchen window. Doomies familiar black blur chasing after it no sooner… Hopefully a fight doesn't break out.

“...a… a cat? out here?” Sans said, a questionable expression on his face. “huh... gotta be kitten me.”

“I ASSURE YOU BROTHER, I WOULDN’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE CLAWING AT… BUT DO YOU KNOW WHERE THE OTHERS ARE? I’LL BE NEEDING BLUE AND GRAPES HELP!” 

Papyrus didn't want to think about the possibility of a bitty being out here, but… All the signs were there. 

The only problem was… It wasn't a group they were dealing with… Didn't feel like it was. The place felt eerie, like something lurked around the corners, making his bones want to fidget. 

He couldn't place his phanagles on it though as to why.

“uuh... can’t be paw -sitive, bu’ Stretch just left to go find Blue outside. Razz, Red, Edge, Gray, and Slick are still lookin’ ‘round th'forest. ‘n i asked Mutt if he could go check where the fuse box was… looked like he was headin’ down th'stairs first.”

Oh? Papyrus felt a nervous spike, suddenly.

Apparently there was indeed a presence watching him and his brother at the moment… 

Suddenly- The vent seemed to kick on, Papyrus and Sans looking to the openings as it echoed. 

Well… Were they panicking over the basement? Must be where they were, then… Papyrus took a mental note. 

If Mutt was anything at all like him, rattled with LV or not, Papyrus believed the other version wouldn't be harsh with any small beings… Despite his harsh outer layer, he's seen how Mutt was with creatures. 

He wasn't the only one who knew stealth, after all…

Papyrus believed, with all his Soul, there was still some good in Mutt.

...Classic sure knows how to pick places...

Place is’a real eyesore, bu' guess it ain’t too bad considerin’ th’ price he got it at.

‘s far away from the drama currently goin’ on, both wit’th’ humans an’ bitties, those creepy ass things...

A shudder ran down Reds spine as he remembered seein’ a tiny copy of him an’ th’others.

Damn right weird!  

How come they came in such large amounts, anyways?! The Asgores an’ Toriels didn’t! Classic should know, fuck; Red should know!

But nah, even workin' in th'New Labs, no infermation was given much light on why…

Oh well, th' lab has became somethin’ of a new sentry station for Red. Didn’t do shit, anyways…. Just looked over stats an’ stuff, maybe catch more sleep. Well, wha'eva. Humans seem ta eat them bitties up…

Again, creepy as fuck.

Even th’ kid ones are creepy… Dolls er somethin’. Shit, anytime he gets around ‘em, damn thin’s giv’em th’ shivers, in th’ worst fuckin’ way . 

Boss has been workin’ in th’ Monster force now for goin’ on 2 an’ a half years, so he kinda has’ta deal wit’th’ fucks. Thankfully he’s relaxed a good bit from how he used ta be b'fore. Was a good change of pace, bu’ damn… Did they all seriously have to be in a place where it had other versions of him an’ everyone else?! Damn annoyin’ half th’time.

What was real annoyin' was how he, or any of th'guys, would walk out n around n they'd get stared at an’ lo'n'behold! their damn bitty counterpart would b' on tha' persons shouldas...

Stars, why did he and Boss have ta b'pulled into this multiverse!? of all th'alternatives they could've gone ta... 

...It was like someone pulled s'many ta getha, jus' ta see how it all goes, fer shits n giggles... 

At least Red an’ Boss actually lived together wit’out his alts for awhile, able ta gain freedom fer good behavior... b’fer their house had became a target from the Anti-Monster groups. 

Their area wasn’t as safe as the others, really it gave off a certain vibe closer hittin’ home back in th'undaground. Didn’t mind it, he could take it, so could Bro. Plus, it was close ta his Chillby’s bar an’ his lady friend. So eh, win some ya lose some. 

They didn't wanna move back in wit'Classic, though. Originally comin’, complainin’, how shit aint safe no mores n how they'd need ‘em ta come back… 

Told em out right no, ta screw off, they finally had their own peace n could act how they wanted wit'out worry.  

Until their fucking place was blown ta smithereens wit’ a fuckin’ bomb. 

So they didn’t have much of’a choice right now. Th'money was tight as is, thanks ta some slimey rules tha’ humans were pushin’... it was defundin’ their labs less they turn all their monsta technology ova ta th'humans, which many wouldn't b'able ta undastand regardless! 

Hell, even Boss was havin’ a hard time due ta th'monsta force almost bein split up… Despite all these years keepin’ s'many safe… 

An’ all tha’ pent up anger b'gan ta find an outlet, primarily by him n’’th’ midget went an’ really fought.

In th’house.

While renting th’damn space.

Boy, did Boss get an earful. Well, if he had any, but still yet. Red hadn’t yelled at Boss in wha’ seemed like ages, never needed ta since Boss did all th’ yellin’ fer him afta he grew outta his stripes, heh.

Hopefully after shit cools down, they'll sell this space n' maybe get into a nicer place. Maybe somethin’ closa ta his lil'Lady friend, heh… Er maybe, a nice ‘nough space an’ try ta get his lady ta move in wit’em…? 

Ooooo, tha’ sounded nice… 

Then thares his few projects tha’ lay back at their old shed, surely he could get a few more easy cash if he could jus' get 'em all done... His bone’s twitch for his work place again, missin' th'scent of oil n rubber. Gotta see-

“th’fuck?” Red hissed as he stepped on something sharp, piercing through the sole of his shoe. “oh, ya gotta be fuckin’ kiddin’ me! bettah not be a god damn needle! fuckin’ doped up fuckers…” Red growled, leaning against a tree and looking at the damage of his shoe.

To his much needed relief, it was just a pin.

...And tacks. 

Lot’sa tacks. 

Wait, th’hell?

Turning his head down, Red saw a bunch of sticks and other small metals gathered together. As he took the pins and shit out of his shoe, he studied the bundle of items.

Did someone… Make this? It’s small, probably a good trap fer animals of a squirrel's height or somethin’.

Wait-

Red groaned hard into his hand.

“ya gotta be fuckin’ jokin’...” Red rolled his eyelights as he took his phone out, beginning to text the crew of his findings.

Feels like a bitty. Could only be if th’ way th’ items were s’small an’ held well- 

Before he ruined the damn thing. 

Wonderful, probably more if Red recalls right of ‘em needin’ groups to survive or some shit.

[You]

boss, watch for small traps.
bitty group might be around.

[BloodyBossy]

So you have found some as well.
Seems there are plenty scattered around the place within the woods.
They are shoddy, but they could be poisoned. Did you get stabbed?

[You]

got it driven up msole, but nothings breakin.
arent poisoned or else id feel it numb mbones.

[BloodyBossy]

Very well, but stay more aware of your surroundings! We might
be dealing with feral bitties, and they are rumored to be
extremely dangerous.

[You]

a’right. thanks, bro. keep ya updated.

[BloodyBossy]

You better! Stay alert!

Red couldn’t help bu’ snicker at his brother, sendin’ another text an’ lists he’s found to the main chat. 

Over th’ 3 years being here total, Boss had really calmed down. All th’ stress of constantly thinkin’ people would jump their backs has been leveled as his brother began hangin’ with th'Baby an’ the Creampuff, Doomie helpin' out tons. 

Still, Boss showed his old habits when he became angry or when someone was absolutely trying to test him, kinda like th'lil'Midget, which were becoming a bit endearing in their own ways. 

Hell, nah jus’ Boss eased down, bu’ even Red had from his anxious habits; Bone biting his fingers, scratching his arms til they bled, stopped tuggin’ on that damnable collar Boss had around his neck.

Eh, people might have found it kink or whatever, but back in their timeline… Well, a collar means protection. Always brought a smile to his face when he remembers Boss bringing the damn thing out.

An’ how tha’ fight went, heh. 

Thinkin' back on it... Red did noticed Mutt had a collar of protection, too... Was it possible tha' their world was like his n Boss? Probably, given how they seem ta match 'em like how Classic n Creampuff match Stretch n Baby Blue...

Fuck, how weird this was--

“Meow!”

...Wait, a cat? Don’t sound like Doomie.

Turning around, Reds eyelights turn into slight pinpricks, only ta chuckle at th’ new creature.

“well... ‘ello, perty kitty. ain’t ya far from home? c’mere.” Red soften to the orange tabby cat in front of him.

     Blue had long ago finished his walk around the Second floor of the place, had done a walk through around the third floor to double check his brothers works-- Which, he did find some major damages that Papy missed... Somehow.

But like Papy said, there was no door to the attic?

There was a way to said attic, had to be! They just had to look harder... He could see that the roof had some windows! There was just one more floor…

Maybe after a break, though? Blue's head was beginning to throb for some reason... He ate, he did his normal routine, but it felt-

...It felt like they all shouldn't be there?...

Like they walked into someone's property unwelcomed... Blue didn't understand why he felt so strange, but... He did. 

They bought it, though! Each one of them put their finances together to get this run-down space!! They owned it!! They did!! 

...Ugh... 

Opening his cellphone to try and ignore those raging thoughts, Red had texted the group.

Reading the messages, he couldn’t help but frown.

[Red-Riot]

hey
found a few traps
bitty group might be here

[Razzle-Tazzle]

Gray and I have taken a few down ourselves already.
There have been about 5 traps so far.
Still finding more.

[Edge-Ruction]

Yes, found about 3 more on my side.
Made of pins, needles, and tacks along with bones, wood and other
odd things.

[Razzle-Tazzle]

With the amount of traps around, no doubt there is a large group.

[Edge-Ruction]

They might be ferals; Due to popular belief, very dangerous.

Stay alert!

[Sans-Font]

a bitty of inconveniences, i’d say
stretch n i might’ve seen a hint of one in the vents

[Papy]

i hope s' more mini monstas, nah no bitties...

[Pap-Font]

Bitties or not, I am positive we can turn their feral selves to enjoy
our company! Would be great though, I agree with you, Stretch!

[You]

But of course! Who wouldn’t like our company?

Fear not, everyone! Let us just be as kind as possible- No matter what's here!

[Red-Riot]

easy fer ya ta say baby blue

yer th damn friendly ones, ya betta find their asses first

done steppin on these fuckin' traps

[Razzle-Tazzle]

Then open your damn sockets, your eyelights are useless if you don't focus
on your surroundings! Weren't you trained at all or did you sleep through everything?

Though if they are miniture monsters, they better make themselves known...

This hiding is hindering our cause!

[Crazy-Grape]

I see, I see! 

Monsters don't hide from other monsters, ya'know~?

Remember the last bitty we had been against?

They did not seem to enjoy anyone’s company…

Oh, Gingersnaps ! Why did Grape have to bring that up?! That was one of the worst cases Blue had ever done. 

Rubbing his face, he did have to agree though. The last few cases with ringer cases were actually more stressful than he would like to say.

The monster ones were easy to deal with; Their magic making things more bearable and actions easy to read, react if they needed, even if it was awkward to deal with some of them.

The Bitty monsters did have a weird-… Uh, Blue could only say ‘Feature’ to the few. Some were Skeletons and, ironically enough, mirrored him and a lot of his alternates here... He was bias to the ones who mirrored his brother, but that was just because their souls radiated a similar and comforting vibe he was much used to.

The humanoid ones, on the other hand? Those-… Kind of scared him when working. They were miniature looking-humans who were trained for killing, their bodies hard to read with each action they made. Their kind were called Manikins, or Dolls for better remembrance. Though they held the same and similar powers of the monster counterparts, they were still oddly-... Tainted. 

Their Souls were always dim, until they managed to clear their minds with kind words, thoughtful gestures, and helpful information they may have needed. Blue and the others have been able to knock their minds back into place using their talents and just being what they needed to be! Always a slow process, but always worth it!

The last one in particular played the victim card; Blue had held them for comfort, to try and protect them from the chaos going around them like he was prone to do for the frightened ones...

...Only to be slashed along his chest with distain...

… Blue felt his spine involuntarily shake. It was far too tainted to even get through by talking and reasons that-... Well, one of the ‘Cousins’ had put them down.

Many officers of all kinds were injured, at least two officers of both human and monster were killed in the process. It was insane how such a small being could have put down such larger ones... If it wasn't for Edge's fast reactions and helping Blue, he-

... He would have been-

[Red-Riot]

found a cat

Oh, a cat? Red always finds the cutest things!!

…Wait...
It’s so blurry though?

[You]

Friend, the picture is blurry!

Try taking another?

[Red-Riot]

keep tryin but th’ idiot wont stop movin

just know its an orange tabby cat

[You]

Awww!! I hope it's friendly for Doomie!

[Edge-Reduction]

Doomfanger would kill any other feline!

Do not bring another creature in- Surprised she didn't find them yet!

[Sly-Criminal]

dude, how can it be orange anything if there aint
a damn drop of color in the blur?

[Red-Riot]

my cameras fucked up man

buy me a new one

[Sly-Criminal]

sure

when you assholes don’t skip out on ur bets

[Ruff-Ruff]

still owe me a sauce.

Blue had to put his phone on silent. When those three text in the chat, it becomes a bit… Overwhelming. 

And graphic. 

Can be funny, but gets pretty disgusting quickly. 

Gosh, Blue needed to stop being distracted by his phone… There was so many things to figure out around the house! 

Come on, Sans! Focus!!

…Though he did travel over a certain contact, hovering over the old messages as he reread them.

Should he text her? Should he ask if she’d be free for a coffee outing soon? Not a date, of course! She made it perfectly clear it was just platonic! But-...

...Cripes.  

Putting the phones screen to his forehead, a soft groan coming from his chest, Blue really fell hard for her… 

…didn’t he?

“heya, sansy.” Papy voiced with a snrk, popping out on the porch as Blue walked in the backyard. "need some glasses fer yer phone?"

“OH, HELLO PAPY!” Blue hid his jump and gave his brother a wide smile. "NO, NO- JUST THINKING!" 

"pffft... don' think too hard, Sansy." Papy chuckled "er yer head'll pop."

Oh, if only he knew already... 

Finally found the basement door… 

Least it wasn’t anotha damn closet space. This shits fer th’birds.

Tha’-... Weird ‘Classic’ as everyones callin’ em fer some reason, asked Russ, of all’o’em, ta go find th’fuse box.

Well, wit’ th’scare tactics he pulled on em, course they’d want ‘em far away, heh… Tha’ was his plan, afta all. 

Normally, fuse boxes got a fifty/fifty o’bein’ downstairs, er upstairs.

If Stretch was headin’ up, Russ was headin’ down.

As he stepped down th’creeky ol’ stairs, havin’ ta move his feet slowly as he felt some unstable, Russ tucked his hands into his pockets as he descended inta th’darkness. 

Russ didn’ wanna go back upstairs… Didn’ wanna split from his brotha, bu’ Razz told ‘em ta… Honestly, th’fartha away from tha’fuckin’ ‘Stretch’ one, th’betta… 

Could handle th’dudes lil’bro, honestly Blue was enjoyable ta b’around. Bu’ Stretch?…

…Such a goddamn Pansy. 

He didn’t even make it ta th’last step and yet a trap got set off by’em- Startled em, a sound of an empty trap encasin’ nothin’ in front of’em…

…Well, yupp… Tha’ sure wasn’t natural in a, s’called, ‘Abandoned' place…

Kicking the trap to the side, he huffed… Damn things, so they were here, huh? 

Shit, hope he didn't jus’ scare th'whole gang away… tha’ b'jus’ wha’ he needed.

Russ studied th’ basement wit'a critical eye. Seein’ things better in th’ dark, he preferred ta wander innit… Help’s hide ‘em n locate souls, helps he can blend inta such atmospheres betta than his alternatives… 

Surveilling th’ whole place, unknown items were on th' ground tha' surrounded a certain vent n’ seemed ta be broken n’ worn, sank ta'th’ ground like somethin’ too heavy kept droppin’ down. Things looked like they were placed down, nah dropped, s'count his lucky stones it seemed s'far its been emtpy…

He was careful stepping around th’ items; Smelled fresh down here wit’ a small hint of decay? Closer inspection was some things were fruit, nuts, bu’ wha’ was shocking was small fish and meat… 

There was somethin' set up above wha' was a drain in th’ th'basement, wit' wha' appeared ta b' furs stretched n’ looked ta have been washed.  

It looked as if somethin’ like a butcher set up was there, just miniature... Th' more he looked around, th'more it was all set like bitties used this space ta gather their foods, store them, n even saw a huge pile of bones tha' one would miss if ya don' look jus' right...

His magic tensed in his chest… 

Were these normal bitties? Ferals? Dolls? Or just normal ass Small Monsters they discovered?

…Was it possible a new group o’monstas came from Mtn. Ebbot again??? 

…But th’whole place down here… 

It was so silent, no Souls were near, nothing was alert; No life he could feel…

…Then how come so much food was around?

…hm?

Russ stared as a loud clunk came from th'vent, no soona heard lil'foot steps movin’ out from it. Whatever came out, seemed like it was walkin’ up right… 

Wasn’t a mouse or anythin’, ‘bout a foot high. 

Th’thing was fast, runnin’ ta it’s pile o’foods n hurriedly shoved some o’it inta it’s bag, like it knew it was gunna b’taken away…

Ah, there’s it’s Soul.

… Hold on, why's it a glitchin’ Soul? Not bright, either… 

Shit, it's a tainted bitty? All the way out here, though? How-

Russ quickly blipped from his spot as th'creature turned its head to em.

…Shit, did it see him?… 

…No, it missed him. 

Russ watched as it dragged it’s bag, a hand around it’s torso like it was hurt…

His bone brows furrowed in confusion; Dolls don’t do tha’, they don’ feel pain, n’ they crack n leave a dust trail when damaged…

If it was’a Monsta, it’d have followed his own Soul, picked up on his readin’, bu’ this thing-... It’s panicked, sure, bu’ it’s nah noticin’ em…

…Maybe he could get a closa look?

Porting behind them, Russ went and squatted. 

At first, he thought he was caught; But turns out, they were too preoccupied wit’ their own bag full o’goodies, some berries n nuts came out in their lil’hurry ta get-... Fabric?

Poor lil'thin’... It went n’ ignored it’s fallen food in favor of wrappin’ th’meats up…

Quietly, Russ gently grabbed wha’ he could and softly placed ‘em back inta it’s lil’bag. 

Th’ lil'things breathin’ picked up, Russ could feel it panick in th'air… Quickly, he ported again beside th’small thing, jus outta sight, watchin’ th’ piles as th'lil'Bitty began ta reach fer the fallen food.

When it realized they weren’t there, how it seemed confused, then smacked its own head with frustration showin’, Russ felt his fangs slowly smirk… 

…Cute…

Watched as they were quick, yet grunting in pain of puttin’ such a heavy bag on their backs.

They began ta move, nah t’th’ same vent, bu’ seems like ta an openin’ outside… A decent crack in th’wall, huh? 

…Awww, it plans ta escape when it’s hurt?...

…Nah, nah, nah, tha’s nah gunna do…

Blue always said ta take action if he see’s anyone hurt, right?... Heh…

Russ gently reached ‘n, ever s’slowly, began ta use his magic ta gently encase this lil’creature innit. 

Honestly, this might scare ‘em now… Bu’, truth b’told, Russ was a bit betta at calming creatures down than his own brother, especially with his magical puffs. 

Which, in fact… Taking one out, he got it ready in his jaws. Seein’ th’slowly formin’ confusion, th’lookin’ around, feelin’ th’panick grow from th’lil’thing, Russ flicked his lighter open. 

Takin’ a deep inhale, sure th’ Perseverance essence would come in handy fer nah jus’ himself bu’ fer them, he watched as th’purple lit th’darkness around em both.

…Caused th'thing ta freeze…

“huh… didn’t expect a lil’ house guest so soon...” Russ gently spoke, tilting his head some as he rested his elbow on his leg and his chin in his palm, pulling them slightly closer in his magic. “th’ corpses ‘r’a sight thou’.”

Ugh , wha’ a vocal thing! 

Russ had ta blink rapidly, keepin’ his sockets free from her ear piercing shriek as it seemed ta echo in his skull, startlin’ him ta th'point tha’ had ‘em lose concentration on his magic.

Tha' had ta'b th'most high pitched, magic reducing, soul sputterin' scream he'd eva heard yet comin' from somethin' s'tiny--

...Wait, how th’fuck was she runnin’ so fast?! 

Oh, shit, theres a crack in th'wall- Okay, nope. 

With a swift flick of his wrist, Russ grabbed ahold of the bitty once more. Russ had ta kill his chuckle in his chest... Got 'em good, he'll admit tha'. She squeaked, his magic encasin' her chest, makin' sure this hold stays now.

Slowly, calmly, and easily, he began movin’ her up from the floor and towards him. Russ made sure it wasn't a high height fer her, bu' didn't want her landin' wrongly eitha. Didn't matta tho', she looked positively terrified...

…He felt a lil’guilty scarin’ her s’badly… 

Ah, dammit- He’ll make it up ta her once she settles in his claws.

“Ho-holy?! Wh-hat the fuck ?!” She squealed, though thankfully nah as loud, before she dropped completely from his magic.

If it wasn’t due to tha’ bag, she would’ve dropped fully… 

…How did she jus’-... Do tha’? 

…s’curious…

Absent-mindedly, Russ put his cig in b’tween his fangs while his one hand slowly made it’s way down n’ unda th’creature… He was told nah t'grab less absolutely needed- bu’... 

He also didn't want a chance o'droppin n' hurtin’ th'poor gal more.

When Russ finally had her face him; Not only could he officially see how she was and the mess she is, bu' he was surprised by th’sudden flip o’th’switch she did. One hand held a strap o’her bag, th’otha wrapped around her torso as she apparently growled at ‘em…

“heh... squirmy lil’ thin’, ain’t ya?...” Russ couldn’t help but allow his fangs to form a half smirk, a chuckle coming out along with it. “shit, yer feisty… relax, ain’ gunna hurt’cha.”

Apparently tha’ was th’wrong thing ta say-- She seemed ta balk at ‘em, as if he was crazy ta have said he, of all creatures, wouldn’t harm her.

…okay, alright, she had a small point thare, bu’... 

“Oh, relax ? Ya want me ta fuckin’ relax?! ” She spoke, fury in her tone. “Oh, sure! Lemme jus’ press the fuckin’ nerve button ta relax as I’m being dangled up by however high yer holdin’ me, ya asshole!”

Russ knew his sockets were wide- His cig was jus’ barely hangin’ by his fangs as they were slightly opened in his shock…

…Tha’ voice-

Y-... You!?  

You?! You were here all along!?

…Ya wouldn’ know him, tho’- 

Alternate self, ya were... It'll jus' b'like back ta square one when ya guys met in his world....

R-... Right… Right, he had ta fight his urge ta jus’ bring ya in n hold ya close… 

Though his shoulders slumped, he came back to his senses, slowly taking a chance to look at ya…

Ratty and tattered clothing, covered in grime, old blood crusted yer hair strands, n’ looked s’ tired… Ya smelled funky, too. Russ couldn’t help but crinkle his nose hole a bit… bu’, lookit ya… Yer poor hair seemed ta have been cut in weird places- er was thare things in it? How long have ya been out here? Did'ja turn feral? Were otha's round, were ya gettin' enough help out here?

…Didn’ matta now, he found ya s’quickly…

Jus' hoped no one else will reconize ya like he had s'fast...

Hopefully, ya weren't their Y/n... 

Ah-... Ya must b’squirmin’ ta get down… Must b’uncomfy, he jus’-... Fuck, aw, look how ruined ya are, Darlin’... Yer so damn banged up-

His clawed hand twitched unda ya, bu’ he thought differently… He’d scare ya more-

…Oh?... 

Ya kept lookin’ at his smoke, huh? Actually, seems like yer gettin’ calmer th’more ya focused on em… 

A lil’hope fluttered in his chest; Ya always loved chillin’ wit’ em, smellin’ th’soothin’ ‘Berry Smoke’ n jus’ talk n chill… Maybe-

…Maybe you’d like ta do tha’? Wit’ em? Give ‘em some source o’normalcy…

Russ inhaled deeply, calming his own nerves and watched you stare in almost amazement, like ya had th’very first time he did this wit’cha. 

“… sounds like’ya need some help ta relax, Spitfire.” Russ gently blew some smoke into your face. “s’allright, just breathe...”

And jus’ like b’fer, ya immediately scrunched up, expecting a more disgustin’ smell, only ta relax in his magics hold as planned.

Felt his genuine smile show; It’s been a good while since he felt calm like this as he watched you slowly give in… Just like ya had b’fer. Jus’ like it was back then…

Inching his hand up, he was goin’ ta hold’ja- He was s’excited ta speak wit’cha, wanted yer stories, wanted ta know s’much bout’cha--

“N-not when I’m dangled like a damn doll, thanks...” You suddenly bit back, Russ stopping his hand. “But if you’re offerin’, let me down and maybe I will?”

…You-... Were fightin’ his smokes?...

Tha’-... Tha’ wasn’t normal, nah fer anyone… 

Jus’ wha’ happened ta have ya get s’scared?... 

“heh... will’ya bolt again?” Russ forced himself ta settle, a lil’ disappointed as his magic wavered ever s’slightly.

“Wouldn’t you?! Being held captive by a bein’ ten times my weight, height, and size; Tell me, you’d try and make friends with someone who’d kill you easily!?” 

…Shit, Russ didn’ expect tha’ ta actually hit his Soul, bu’... He’s gotta snap outta this; Yer nah his… Yer someone new. 

Yer nah here… 

“oof... point made, heh…”  Russ hid his sigh but brought ya up close to his face, tha’ spicy personality comin' and feelin' familiar ta 'em. “kinda wanna get’ta know ya thou’, Kitten… s’tha’ so bad?”

“I-is-... F-fuck off! I-...” Shit, ya were startin’ ta shake now, yer arm tried ta wrap around yer torso even tighter, face morphed inta pain. “F-fuckin’-... Jerk, let go! It’s bad for me , that’s what!”  

Aw, dammit- He had ta get ya outta tha damnable hangin’ position… How badly hurt were ya?

“aw, bu’ yer so full o’life, Darlin’...” He tried ta soothe, usin’ his softer voice ya used ta love n makin’ sure his movements were slow. “‘n yer-”

“D- DON’T TOUCH ME! ” Ya screamed again, kickin' his hand s'hard enough it made ya groan from th'movement.

…Russ felt his anger start ta flare up- He was gunna find whoeva did this ta ya… Ya got turned inta a lil'Bitty n it was obviously someone harmed ya… n yer Soul, completely hidden by wha'eva trauma ya were put inta…

…Calm it down, Dumbass-

Russ heard ya curse, curlin’ up on yerself as ya hung thare in wha he could only describe as agony… He couldn't tell if you were growlin’ outta pain er if ya were growlin’ cause o'him. 

Wha'eva th'case- He had ta get ta ta settle some… Ya were shakin’ s'goddamn badly now, he jus-

He can barely take it no more…   

Russ took another deep drag of his cig, glad it was a distraction ta ya enough ya stopped yer shakin’.... Then, apparently ya went n sized him up, finally. 

Maybe-... Maybe someone heard her n they'll b’ down here any minute? Russ hoped someone was comin, he didn't wanna get ya hurt anymore than ya are now… Wha' can he do then? If he can't hold'ja, if ya panic when yer held... How's this gunna work?...

Fuck , he sucks at this shit!! 

Breathin’ out th’vapor, it twisted above his head n givin ya a small show of his face wit'th’smokes glowin’ visibility before disappearin’.

“allright… m’bad, Darlin’, m’bad…” Russ finally made himself say. “...need’ja ta relax thou’, yer workin’ yerself inta’a panic.” 

“Again, wouldn’ you , ya overgrown halloween decoration?” Damn, ya were on a ball wit’ these damn snide comments…

“...fair point… bu’, c’mon now, i ain’ tha’bad-”

“Thats what they all fuckin’ say, you dumbass.” Ya rolled yer eyes, snapping at him once more. “You can take your boney ass, take yer fuckin’ claws, yer fuckin’ friends, and yer goddamn weird drugs out of my home!” Gave a lil'kick at him, issuin' in more pain...

It wounded him, bu’-... Since yer nah listenin’ ta em, n seems like no ones comin’... 

…Guess he'll have ta b’ th'creepy monsta t'ya, too…

“o- ho ... yer home, huh?” Russ began ta grin, his eyelights turnin’ sharper. “sorri, Darlin’... bu’ we bought it fair ‘n square from th’old lady who owned it before.” He said, bringin’ ya up higher as he dangled ya closer to his face. “so, yer tresspassin’ on our turf… ‘n i don’ take kindly ta trespassers, lil’ lady.” He growled back finally, only ta push out his laughta.

Ya answered em by swingin’ at his face wit'yer foot. “Fine, ya fuck! Keep th’damn house! Lemme go ‘n ya won’t see me ‘gain!” 

Again, ya tried ta kick at his face… He couldn't help it, bu’ he opened his fangs quick enough, he was gunna get tha’ lil'foot-

“ OH MY GOD , did you just snap at my foot!?” Ya squawked, pullin' yer legs up n'under wit' a disbelief stare at Russ.

“...heh…” Okay, he'll admit it… ya were still damn cute. “...well, yer takin’ a step in’th’ right direction ta get on m’bad side, Darlin’... ain’t nice ta try ‘n kick a gentle bein’s face.” 

Tha’ shocked ya ta shuddup, it seemed… now, if only he could bring his phone out, maybe text someone, he can rest easily knowin yer in betta hands than his- 

“...A-at least I’m not dangling you high above ones head, you fuckin’ jerk!” Ya trembled this time, causing Russ ta pause… “God, you’re about to eat me, aren’t you!? Fuck, I knew it! I KNEW IT, LET ME GO- ”

Ah- Dammit!! No, he went too far!!! No!

Now she's even more terrified n’ she's flailin’ about! Fuckin’ hell, he pushed too far- Easy, eaaaasy-

“whoa, whoa, shit Spitfire, stop yer flailing. like hell would i eat’cha...” Russ suddenly got an idea, somethin’ tha'll stun ya now, as he chuckled. “i mean, damn… i like ta’ eat out afta a date, but if yer willin’, i’d give ya a tiny nibble now...” Think time, he gave her a wink. 

Scare tactics go too far? Go wit’ pervy humor… Normally confuses em wit’ tha’ 180 turn.

“....I don’t know if you’re being goddamn SERIOUS … Or if you’re being an utter PERVERT !” Ya squealed, haltin’ yer movements as Russ grinned in his success. “Either way, what the fuck, dude? ”

“wha’?... i mean, ya sayin’ th’ word ‘fuck’ a lot… need a demonstration ta get yer mind made up, Darlin’?” 

“Wha-” 

He silenced ya with his favorite flirt trick; Bringin’ his tongue out and swipin’ it ova his fangs, hopefully keepin’ ya distracted long enough fer em ta send a text out… 

It did well, ya seemed enthralled like ya were th'first time he tried this out wit'cha… Yer eyes lit up like they did, ya had an amusin’ face expression again… N as his tongue lit th'room, Russ saw familiarity in those sweet lil'eyes of yers…

Fer a moment, he thought ya were stuck starin’ at his tongue… Bu’ ya were finally checkin’ his face out; N’ as ya came ta his sockets…

He gave ya a wink once more.

“...You’re a pervert.” Your eyes narrowed at him, obviously tryin hard nah ta give emotion. “Wonderful, a fuckin’ pervert. I’d rather get ate by a fuckin’ wild snake, thanks.”

“...aw... bu’ ya lookin’ like a ssssss snack, Spitfire… ya wound me…” He sighed playfully before givin’ ya a heated glare. “can i be tha’ snake? sure i’m wild ‘nough…”

 Jus’ ta add flare, he flicked his new forked tongue at ya, jus’ ta see if ya would crack…

“...I… have no doubt you’re wild, since yer flirtin’ wit’ a goddamn bitty .” Oh, he got'ya ta smirk fer a second b'fer ya hardened tha’ face o'yers. “Then again, I'd call that desperate , not wild .”

“s-shit-...” Fuck! Ya were really givin’ it ta him, weren't cha?! His magic b'gan ta waver once more in his laughter. “heh, yer a fuckin’ ball , Spitfire. maybe i’m both? maybe i’m neither?... either way, yer smilin’, ya sassy Kitten.”

Oh… Oh, how Russ missed yer sassy attitude, yer quick remarks n yer terrible act ta hide yer true emotions… Russ-... He hated bein’ s'mean ta ya, look at ya? ya were blushin’... god, yer mini self was s'cute, he seriously wanted ta jus cup ya up n nuzzle ya s’, s’, s’ fuckin’ bad… He watched in amusement as ya forced tha smile inta an awkward straight line, only ta growl once more at em-

Then suddenly killed it…

Ya winced, he saw. Ya were gettin’ ta tha’ point ya couldn't handle yer pain no more… N he was jus’... Wigglin’ ya on accident, too. Finally, Russ saw those weapons on yer body… n he saw bruisin’ round yer torso tha' was showin'… Shit, th'hell did'ja do ta get tha’? Must've been recent, thems were fresh human wounds...

…Fuck, didn't anyone get his fuckin’ text yet?...

…

“...would’ja settle if i healed ya?” Russ finally asked s'gently, watchin’ ya blink in surprise.

“Heal?...” You furrowed your brows. “No-... No, I don’t need to be in debt to you. Jus’- Lemme go or else.”

“yeesh, i mean, if we’re goin’ tha’ route… if i let’ya down, you’d owe me still.” Russ shrugged his shoulder, finally lookin’ round her abdomen. 

“...Bastard, I owe you nothing. If ya don’t stop, I’ll-”

“you’ll wha’? cut me up wit’chur lil’ blade there?” He couldn't help it, he was gettin’ tired o'waitin fer anyone ta answer his text n ya nah calmin’ down worth a damn… 

“Why, yes you dumbass, exactly. I’ll cut’cha wit’ my ‘Lil’ Blade.’ ” Ya dipped yer voice a few octaves lower, mimickin his voice.

“ snrk- ... holy-... i’d like ta see ya try, Spitfire.” Russ couldn't help that new chuckle come out… 

…Shit, she was somethin’ else here… 

“Yeah? Is that a challenge , Reaper?” Ya asked, makin’ em raise his brow…

“bet yer lil’ ass s’a damn-” Russ got cut off by th'speed it took ya ta pull yer weapon out-

And ta cut tha’ strap off, causin ya ta fall--

Shit- Shit, shit, shit--

Russ was bristlin’ now; This shouldn't b'fuckin’ hard fer him goin’ against a Bitty of yer size?!

 “h- holy- ” Russ muttered, only ta hiss as he felt his shin get cut n heard his jeans bein’ ripped--

Before he could process wha’ th'fuck jus’ happened--

“Don’ fuck with my ‘Lil’ Blades’ , Reaper! See ya in the next after life!” Ya took off, succeedin’ in gainin’ yer bag back.

Russ sat thare, frozen…

...Did he seriously jus' get cut by someone?? By'a Bitty, no less???

Least it was ya who did it, bu' dammit... He really scared ya too bad, this's gunna ruin 'em--

...Fuck, ya were headin’ back ta tha’ crack in th'wall! 

Quickly snappin’ outta it; He didn't want ya ta leave ‘em, neva ta seein’ ya again! Nah again!!! 

Reachin’ his hand out in hoped ta grab ya again in his magic- Any part of yer body at all- He realized tha ya felt like nothin’ ta em… Ya felt like somethin’ he couldn't hold, he began ta panic hard as ya jus kept goin’ n he jus’-

Getting on his hands and knees, he was quick to scramble afta ya-- His Soul was gettin’ anxious, he swiped blindly a few times, thinkin’ he was jus long enough ta grab ahold--

…Only ta watch ya run right inta tha massive crack he couldn't fit his claws inta…

Fuck-!! Fuck!!! Fuck!!!! FUCKIN’ HELL!!!!

Russ scrambled up n on his feet, lookin’ round th'basement fer a quicker route outside- 

He didn't know th'full outline yet of th'house, he couldn't port even if he wanted ta! His panic was too high-- 

Finally found tha basement door n’ slammed it open despite wha’eva held it shut.

Where were ya?! Where, where, shit-

… Relief in his sockets as ya were in Blues hands, his panic settled in his chest finally…

Ya were safe, ya’d b’sound now… Hated how it looked like ya were still tryin’ ta get away, Blue seemed ta talk ya down some.

Outta all th'guys, he trusted Blue th'most... He'd get ya calmed down now- 

Seein’ Stretch ‘round, howeva…

Stretch seemed ta give Russ tha' glare, tha' stupid n idiotic silent threat, a quiet 'stay away' he needs practice on...

…His soul began ta twitch in a challenge.