Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Ink was late. Again. 

Undertale Sans - also known as Classic - sat tapping his phalanges on the ridiculously long table as he, and the others waited. He contemplated a nap. Several others looked to be entertaining the same idea.

The seating arrangement was loosely based on universe type and who had the most influence. As Undertale was the original universe and had many, many copies, this left Sans next to the leaders of the Star council. Nearby was Underfell, Underswap and a variety of Swapfell and Fellswap from Reds, Golds, Purples and whatevers. 

Sans never really understood why there were so many types of Swapfell and Fellswap and why they weren’t just considered copies - Ink had probably been going through an experimental phase - and Sans was too lazy to figure out what made them each different. It wasn’t his business to go poking into their lives. 

Other AU's present included Outertale, Dancetale, Echotale, Underlust, Birdtale, Storyshift - and many, many more, each with a single, or in some cases double representative of their respective AU’s. It was by no means everyone. Most of the AU’s that fall under the category ‘too evil’ or ‘too innocent’ or were just recently created were usually deemed best left in the dark about the multiverse. Littletale and yanderetale for example were not present. It was also rare to involve a copy unless there was some kind of accident or they find out on their own - like Blue. There were also the ones everyone had an unspoken agreement about avoiding … like Jerrytale or the one where everyone has Mettaton's legs.

Sans’ eyesockets were beginning to slip closed as his head began to bob as he fought sleep for a few seconds more. He really wished he was back home. Papyrus had been trying to make a new dish for supper under the supervision of Toriel, so he knew it was bound to be good.

Sure, the Star Council was formed as a preventative measure against multiversal threats like Nightmare and his gang or Error, the literal Destroyer of Worlds. But it would still have been nice to hang out a little more with his brother - especially since Ink is usually late to these meetings ... even though Ink’s also usually the one to call them.

Blue and Dream were doing their best to keep everyone placated, but Sans could already tell an argument was brewing from one or more fellverse rep.

His eyes close and his head thuds against the table, but he doesn’t mind - he’s already asleep.

***

It only feels like he closed his eyes for a moment, but when he opens them again things have already drastically changed. 

A Swapfell Papyrus is sleeping with his head back at an uncomfortable looking angle, sharp toothed mouth agape, feet on the table. There is a stack of balanced office supplies on his forehead. Several other napping skeletons have met a similar, but equally creative fate - no two stacks the same.

Reaching up to his own head, Sans pulls off a pair of fluffy cat ears, not having escaped the shenanigans himself. He wonders who the nap-bandit was, as he decided to title them.

A Fellswap Sans appears to glare at him for no apparent reason. Probably for self-important reasons.

Blue seems to be hosting group origami with another Underswap Sans, his lap absolutely buried in papercrains that crinkle at his every little move.

For some reason Fell Sans was tied up to a chair wearing a dunce hat and a sign around his neck saying “I swore in front of Blue even after he asked me to stop. No means No!,” with a smug looking Lust taunting him.

G appeared to be making and remaking a card tower by stealing cards from a poker game Fellswap … Gold(?) Sans and Papyrus appear to have started, much to their displeasure.

Birdtale Sans appeared to be giving rides as Outertale Sans lazily watched while floating. It was surprising the celling was tall enough for it.

Dream has his face planted on the table. Sans would have mistaken him for a sleeping if the occasional defeated sigh and mutterings didn’t indicate otherwise. Storyshift Chara sneaks up to the mumbling Dream and begins stacking apples on his head - how appropriate. Nap-bandit mystery solved.

They notice Sans watching and put a finger to their smiling lips, eyes gleaming red. Sans can’t help but shiver.

The sound of a portal opening catches everyone's attention as Ink walks in from the other side.

Several stacked towers topple as their foundations shift or startle awake. Chara pouts over the fact that they didn’t get to finish stacking all the apples. They return to their spot despite that.

Where they got all these office supplies and produce was a mystery.

“Hey guys!” Ink says cheerfully, his mismatched eyelights bright. “I hope I’m not too late - I got caught up creating a new AU. Then I forgot. Or was that the other way around?”

Ink blinks, eyelights changing in confusion as he finally registers the chaos. 

“INK!” Blue shouts as he stands - papercrainces falling like a paperfall as he bound towards the Creator, a line of them trailing after him. “NO, NO! YOU’RE NOT THAT LATE!” He cuts in cheerfully to avoid another argument, then mutters. “Just three hours.” But he’s back to beaming before anyone can blink. “I’M GLAD YOU’RE HERE NOW AT LEAST!”

“Oh. Okay.” Ink said, easily moving on. “Anyway, did I miss a party? It looks like you guys had fun!” He’s eyeing everything with interest and seems to be holding himself back from joining in.

“eh. you didn’t miss much” Sans said, tossing the cat ears behind him. “but we’re all curious about what this meeting’s about. you don’t really call an unscheduled meeting unless you’ve got a plan.”

“That right!” Ink said as if he just recalled. “I’ve got a plan! It -” he vomited black ink and his face blanked for a second. “What were we talking about?”

Sans sighed. It was a wonder the multiverse functioned at all, given the person creating it. Actually, no, it functions just about as well as you'd expect with him at the helm - barely held together by duct tape and Hope. As one of very few existing with memory of the X-events ending, Sans had a special insight into how unpredictably gullible and childish Ink could really be ... and how fragile the multiverse is.

Ink cleaned up his mess using his magic as Dream reminded him of what he had literally just been talking about.

“You were saying you had a plan?”

“Oh yeah!” He chuckled, then began reading through the various things on his scarf to find said plan.

Underfell Sans was looking annoyed as usual, still tied up.

“tch. dumba-” Blue gave him a sharp look and he flounders for an alternate insult. “aaaashtray fuck - frick! i said frick!”

G, who was smoking (despite repeated complaints) rolled his eyes at the insult, twirling an ace of hearts.

“Ah-ha! Found it!” Ink said proud, once again regaining attention. “We tell the copies!”

Inks' expression was smugly satisfied.

There were confused mutterings amongst the room.

Sans sighed. Why did he always have to be the adult?

“didn’t you tell us that was a bad idea about a month ago?" Sans asked. "that it would cause some sort of multiversal confusion and chaos when people start trying to travel?”

“Did I say that?” Ink asked confused, eyelights colored question marks as he looked back to his scarf. “Hmmmm nope. I don’t see it. If it was really that important I would have written that down for sure! Probably. I was, like, exaggerating to see your reactions or something.”

Sans wished he didn’t see that as a possibility, but with Ink one simply can’t always know what’s going on in his head. Undynetale for example. Just ... why???

He pinched the bridge of his nose. He was the Creator, so, really, it was his call anyway. 

“and just so we’re clear.” Sans decided to ask. “what do you want us to tell the copies?”

Ink shrugged carelessly.

“I don’t know. Just a general warning about Nightmare, Error and maybe Fresh being a possible danger to their AU’s or something. Do the details really matter?”

“well, including descriptions of what they look like would probably be helpful.” Sans said dryly.

“AND IT IS ALSO A GOOD IDEA TO EXPLAIN WHY EACH OF THEM IS SO DANGEROUS.” Blue added.

“We should probably add something about Nightmares followers, just in case.” Dream said as he looked lost in serious thought.

“Wow!” Ink said beaming. “These are all great ideas! It’s really inspiring! I’m gonna go make more AU’s now!” As sudden as he had come, he was gone. Leaving the rest to do the actual work.

The Star council began debating other useful information to spread to the copies and which Copies to involve.

***

It was very late in his AU by the time he got back, the sun had set on Surface City hours ago it appeared. He was famished and exhausted from talking so long. He hoped Papyrus hadn’t worried too much. 

On his way past the kitchen door, he paused and looked in at what he saw. On the table was a plate of chicken alfredo. Beside the dishes was a sleeping Papyrus still sitting at his chair. Sans couldn’t help but feel touched if a bit guilty and gave a small smile to the sleeping Papyrus.

A quick shortcut later and Sans held a soft blanket in his hands. He gently covered Papyrus's shoulders. But despite his best attempts he still woke him.

“Sans...?” he asked tiredly as he groggily rubbed his sockets.

“yeah bro. it’s me.” Sans said softly. “didn’t mean to wake you.”

“IT - it’s alright brother.” He said more awake noticing the time. Papyrus was always a light sleeper and quick to wake. “I thought you would be back sooner.”

“heh. so did i. i was just about to give your new recipe a try. looks im- pasta -ble to resist.”

Papyrus rolled his eyes to hide his smirk. “Ugh. Sans. It is too early and/or late for puns. I expected better from you.” 

Sans sat down on the other side of the table and picked up a fork to eat. He pointed the loaded utensil at Papyrus. “sorry. did that brother you?” He asked, taking his first bite. It was good. He let out a hum of appreciation causing Papyrus to smile, then sigh.

“Now that you’re back, do you mind telling me how the meeting went?” Papyrus asked. "And why do you have cat whiskers drawn on your face?"

Sans snorted at the revelation - he knew the cat ears couldn't have been all.

“oh man where to start…”

So, even though he was dead tired, he recounted the tale of the nap-bandit and other meeting highlights.

It didn’t occur to him that a mistake may have slipped into the selection of which Copies to include a letter to. 

And even if it had, it wasn't his business anymore.

What was the worst that could happen?

***

*Undertale_Copy208*

***

Sans stares at the ceiling, eyesockets dark. The same time and space he was before, yet again. It was beginning to blur together, but still, he counted.

47 - that’s how many times Flowey has decided to reset Today, Sans adds to his mental tally. More than the 32 Yesterdays, or 41 Day-Before-That’s. He wonders how many Tomorrows will be added to the already 15 Tomorrows he's already been subjected to. Probably not many as it was his day off sentry duty and the demon flower gets board when nothing it does is able to bring Sans from his room. It's become his End of Week tradition. It was his 3rd This Week by the way … hopefully the weed would get bored with This Month sooner than Last Months and let Next Month appear without having to see too many deaths … asking for none was too much to Hope from it, Sans knew by now. 

2 more "days" and he'd catch up to the furthest this timeline had progressed again, so that was something new to look forward too. Possibly. 

The clock mocks Sans, blaring it’s knowledge in glowing blood red and menacingly.

4:35:53 AM.

3 minutes and 26 seconds after the last reset wakes him.

A verse of a nursery rhyme flashes through his mind.

Tick tock, goes the clock,

And all the years they fly,

Tick tock, and all to soon,

You and I must die.

It’s from Doctor Who if he remembers right.

Sans can count the times he’s actually died on one hand. All surprise attacks, sudden and without warning. There weren't many of those anymore, probably because it was a 'boring death.' But the fact that he still has a number to count for something like that is messed up.

As for his brother … he doesn’t have enough digits. It is both a comfort and a curse that his brother doesn’t seem to remember. If he did know, he would be more wary of his flowery friend.

4:36:15 AM.

Papyrus should be calling Sans down at 6:01:17 AM Today. If he doesn't get up past 7:13:58 AM Papyrus comes to get him anyway. Then Sans only has till 7:28: 45 AM to be ready for work or Papyrus gets worried. Past that, more of the same until the weed shows his flowery face - then anything could happen. Including genocide. Then, if Sans is the last one, if the weed doesn’t go to him, he will go to it.

And then they will fight for as long as it takes to quit. It’s personal best being 107 before getting frustrated enough to reset. Luckily it seems to have decided Sans was more trouble than he was worth and he’d be lucky if the fight is limited to a repeat only once or twice. Unlucky, he was looking at around 50.

But that was only if it went that far. Which was about 1 in 5. Luckily the weed seemed to want as many alive as possible when it gets bored of one timespan to move onto the next. Mostly to just kill them again, but it means time is still moving with people alive and well. Even if it takes Sans a little longer than most to see it.

Another glance at the taunting clock.

4:37:47 AM.

Sans wonders if there's a way out of this. One he hasn’t tried before.

His exhausted mind catches up with him and he falls into a deep sleep.

***

As if he had merely blinked, he is awoken by a bang of his room door slamming open and a very excited Papyrus shaking him.

“SANS!!! OH MY STARS SANS, LOOK!!! I GOT A LETTER!”

Before looking at the letter, a very confused Sans glances at the clock. 

6:00:54 AM.

Still Today.

But … what???

“I KNEW SOMEDAY SOMEONE WOULD RECOGNIZE MY GREATNESS! I. AM. SO ... EXCITED!!! WHAT DO YOU THINK IT SAYS!?”

Sans is immediately suspicious Flowey gave Papyrus the letter in order to lure him into more … creative situations. To try something new.

But why Today 47?

He decides he doesn’t care. It's not like it’s going to be for any other reason other than ‘it could, so it did.’

He realizes he hasn’t answered his bro. He’s too tired for this.

“oh. i, uh. dunno. maybe read it?”

“OF COURSE! EXCELLENT IDEA BROTHER. I SHALL BEGIN WITH THE EXTERIOR, NATURALLY. *AHEM* TO S-Sans …”

“wut?” 

“I-IT APPEARS THAT I HAVE MADE A MISCALCULATION. SOMEONE MUST HAVE GIVEN UP THE ATTEMPT OF CRAMMING MORE CORRESPONDENCE INTO YOUR ADDRESS RECIPROCAL … AND NEEDED TO RESORT TO USING MY OWN. YOU SHOULD REALLY SORT YOUR MAIL BOX CONTENTS YOU KNOW.”

Papyrus looked dejected.

“bro, i'm sor-”

“IT IS OF NO CONSEQUENCE!” he said with forced cheer. “NOW, I AM GOING TO COOK BREAKFAST SPAGHETTI! A LOT! AND AS SUCH, IT MAY TAKE SOME TIME! I WILL CALL YOU WHEN IT IS READY! THERE IS NO NEED TO COME DOWN UNTIL THEN, OR OFFER ANY HELP!”

He was gone before Sans could say anything. He let out a rough sigh.

"...ok."

The empty room did not reply.

Papyrus could be stubborn sometimes and it was near impossible to get him to admit when he was upset by something, even if it was usually easy to tell. Sans knew that even if he attempted to press the situation, Papyrus would continue to act happy as long as he was in company. At least alone he wouldn’t put on a mask.

The brothers had that in common. However, nothing kept Papyrus down for long. He'd be fine.

He'd be fine.

Sans frowned down at the letter as much as he could, eyesockets dark.

‘To Sans’ it claimed in his very own font.

Dreading what Flowey may have in store for him, it takes him longer then he would admit to pick it up and open it. There were a surprising number of pages inside.

“dear sans of undertale_copy208,” It began, weirdly enough...

---

“hey pal. sorry about sending this to your papyrus, but i figured it was the quickest way to send out this info and see that you and the others actually get it (and i’m too lazy to go in person so here we are). 

an introduction is in order. i’m sans. sans the skeleton. wacky right? (to keep things simple you can call me ‘classic.’) well, wonder how this is possible no longer - the multiverse is closer than you think, bud. now, that isn’t necessarily a good thing. 

i, as well as the other representatives of the star council have been tasked with spreading awareness about threats to the multiverse. but firstly, a little info about the multiverse itself can’t hurt ;)

the multiverse is categorized by giving an au (alternate universe) a name. each au is vastly different from one another. for example, our au is under the name undertale and are very similar. other examples of au’s that exist are underfell, where things are ‘kill or be killed,’ or underswap, where everyone's personalities are swapped - and many more. it gets weird out there.

copies (parallel universes) of an au are given a number. i’m from undertale 1. you’re from undertale 208. we should be pretty similar, but obviously there are differences other than when our universes were created, but i was to lazy to check specifics (also your copy number is just being filed in by a program to save time and wrist pain ).

this is where things can get interesting - given enough changes to a timeline, a copy can gain the status of au if the changes remain permanently. for example, in some copies/au’s we aren’t the … friendliest skeleton. like, "murder everyone in insanity" not friendly.

that brings us to the persons of interest in the multiverse you should look out for. there are three notable ones.

biggest one you should look out for is a sans by the name ‘error.’ like his name suggests, error is covered in glitches and error symbols. this guy isn’t given the title ‘destroyer of worlds’ for nothing. he can, and will, kill everyone you love if he targets your world and proceed to delete your universe from existence - there are no resets from this. further description on this fella on page 3.

next up, there’s 'nightmare' - king of negativity. covered in black goop with five tentacles protruding from his back, this sans doesn’t work alone. killer, dust, horror and cross are his most loyal lackeys. he feeds off negative emotions to get stronger, so while he won’t kill everyone, they’ll certainly wish he had. he also tends to be the most cunning of the three and is a strategist. more about all these fellas pages 4-7.

finally, we’ve got ‘fresh.’ don’t let his 90’s nightmare of a getup fool you. he may look like a sans, but he isn’t - he is piloting one though. fresh is an interdimensional parasite that feeds off of souls - his favorite host being of the undertale sans variety, unfortunately for us, and has been seen in all manor of au causing trouble. more on page 8.

worst of all, these three don’t always act alone, sometimes banning together to take out universes as a group.

if you see any of them attacking, do what you can to buy time and evacuate people. help will arrive when it can.

backup will involve at least one of the following: dream (guardian of positivity), ink (creator of au’s) and blue (underswap sans 337). (more on these three page 9)

best strategies for delay and fighting are on their pages.

sanscerely, classic (sans of undertale_1)”

---

The next several pages were filled with physical descriptions, fighting preferences, magic capabilities and even a couple exploitable weaknesses such as the location of Fresh’s host's soul, Nightmares blind side, and Errors aversion to touch.

The page about the allies you can expect included who was best suited for which fight: Ink vs Error; Nightmare vs Dream; and surprisingly, Blue manages to hold his ground against all 4 of Nightmares goons with minimal assistance. Sans remembers that Blue was from Underswap, meaning swapped personalities. He wanders who's personality it was ... maybe Undyne? What a terrifying combination that would be. Sans shudders at the thought ... Sans didn’t think Flowey would be creative enough to create this, nor did he see any reason it would benefit it. And if it wasn’t the weed …

Then that left …

Sans let out a sigh as he let himself fall backward into his bed, his arms splaying, a paper held loosely in one hand. 

This was … a lot to process.

He glanced at the clock.

6:32:28 AM.

He held the page above him as he took another look at the small sketch of a dark glitchy skeleton with tear streaks. He groaned and rubbed his other hand down his face, letting the hand with the paper fall down again.

So … not only did he have to deal with a demented time traveling weed ... but there was also a chance he’d come across threats big enough to wipe out his universe.

Great … just … great ...

He wandered idly if the other copies had more, or less resets than this one. If they also kept vigilant count. The description under Error said he targeted the ones with the power to reset first. The flower … and the last human. 

But Sans only knew of the Flower. 

Maybe this Classic had made a mistake. But he had also mentioned how his universe was created at a different time. So … maybe Classic was further along in the timeline?

Maybe there was even a Copy already on the Surface.

The thought made him slowly sit up and blink.

If he could update the machine in his basement to somehow detect alternate universes … than narrow it down to ones without a barrier and preferably little to no resets … maybe he could convert it to let him and his bro travel there ...? Then if it works he could scale it up and have the Underground leave that way - and leave that demonic weed in the dust!

The more he entertained the idea, the more appealing the idea became when the alternative was more of the same.

Or insanity, as that was apparently a very real possibility. 3 out of 4 Nightmare lackeys were from AU’s that began as an Undertale timeline and went mad from the resets after all. Though head injury also seemed to play a part for Horror.

Sans hadn’t even gotten to the human that would supposedly fall and already …

6:41:32 AM.

… he may just be losing it a little. Not “kill everyone” crazy - that was just … unthinkable - but perhaps a little obsessed with numbers. Time especially. Hell, at this point he probably doesn’t even need to look at the clock to tell time, he’s just perpetually counting it without meaning to - it was just a comforting habit to tell himself that, yes, time is still moving forward.

He even spent 394 resets restoring a snazzy pocket watch he found in the dump, including the amount of time he had to repeat the process of just getting it home. It was well worth the effort, despite his phone having a time function.

To everyone else, it had taken him 7 days to restore it to perfection in his spare time. For him? It took almost a year, but he did it. He’s lucky Flowey has stopped resetting by week so much by that point, focusing on days. 

Though even Sans was smart enough to boycott maintenance on his watch if a number of the population was wiped out - the weed always reset those so he could ‘play’ more with whomever he had ‘broken’ and it was obvious the progress wasn’t going to stick.

And if he could do it before …

6:44:59 AM.

… who’s to say he couldn’t do the same with his machine?

Sans’ smile turned a little manic.

For the longest time, he had been floundering without a goal much more than ‘don’t worry Papyrus.’ But now he had a goal that could get him and his brother to the Surface. A chance for time to actually count .

And a way to leave that fucking weed where it belongs -   i n   t h e   d i r t .

... even a Dark Sans would be wary of the expression on his face at this moment.

Desperate people are dangerous after all.

But to avoid too much suspicion, Sans should probably wait for Tomorrow and go with the routine for Today when he leaves.

“SANS! BREAKFAST SPAGHETTI IS READY!” Papyrus called up, sounding much happier.

Sans schooled his expression to something less terrifying.

“ok.” 

There was more skip in his step than usual as he sauntered down to enjoy some spaghetti breakfast.

Today 47 turned out to be good for something after all.

***

Sans had finally done it. 

He hopes.

It wasn’t the prettiest looking machine anymore - the insides were mostly outsides at this point - but it should function.

It had taken him 9 “days,” but he did it. He had really lucked out on the timing of that letter. Since the next days were new, changing his schedule didn't get too much suspicion from the flower at first. He wouldn’t have been able to trial and error his way through some of those tests without the resets though - he maaay have blown up his house ... 13 times. 

Was it the tiniest bit funny he ended up dying to explosions more than he did by that time traveling murder plant? A little. Twice he thought he had even glimpsed Gaster, but he decided that was a trick of the light. He had avoided tampering with that string of code further just in case though.

Papyrus seemed happy he had something to occupy his time with  too - even if it meant using his vacation days. It just drove him to work harder. Though Sans practically lived in his lab coat now, hoodie under the increasingly dirty fabric, much to Papyrus’ frustration.

He probably would have never attempted something large scale like this had it not been for his pocket watch. It was proof of concept and a symbol he still could make a difference. He had attached the time piece to a chain and wore it like a medal. 

A subtle ‘fuck you’ to time shenanigans'. Even though he was fully using them to his advantage.

Unlike with the creation of the watch, Sans did not stop for a high fatality run - only a full genocide. He would simply become more experimental and less concerned with safety. Hence, explosions. It was very informative. He now knew what not to do.

It was actually pretty amusing to see the look of confusion on its usually smug face in the next Today after his first mishap, as explosions were not a typical part of the routine. Not unless it was the weeds own doing. It had become even more wary of Sans since then, rightly fearing he was up to something. As a result, the resets kept coming in numbers closer to that of the 1st Month ... but Sans kept at it.

Anytime Flowey would try to get info out of him, Sans would just smile and give vague statements about a new hobby, adding a few science puns. They flower would shudder and flee more times than not to Sans’ relief. It never did like science puns.

One time, during a genocide timeline fight, Sans had slipped in a new set of dialogue, just to see what would happen.

“hey bub. got a new joke for ya. what do you think happens when you drive a scientist mad? heh, heh … things get blown outta proportion.” A summoned circle of blasters accentuating his point.

Sans had laughed and smiled so hard - the demon had reset then and there, the blasters not even having time to fully charge. 

7:37:46 PM, Month 7 after the start of the resets, Week 2 number 1, Day 5’s Reset 12 was a good one … he’d have to remember it. It had been so long since he had had such a good laugh.

He hadn’t stopped laughing even after the reset and had ended up waking Papyrus. But that was fine. It was better than screams.

Luckily he hasn’t had to fight the weed since. It left him more time for the machine. The weed had even cut back on resets a bit - for about three days - which helped things move along considerably.

He considered the option of scaring Flowey off of resets after that, but restrained himself thinking about how quickly that could spiral into becoming one of the ‘not so nice’ skeletons. Besides, it would only be a temporary measure and would speed the arrival of the next time anomaly - the one that had an even higher probability of driving him truly mad supposedly.

So he ignored the flower, and it avoided him. Which brings him to Today 36.

Before him is the remodified machine.

A quick glance at his watch showed the time.

5:55:56 PM.

The area around the machine is pretty much a disaster zone, full of litter, scrap and in some places ketchup bottles. The walls are covered in complicated physics and formulas - as well as strings numbers that only made sense to Sans that indicated specific memorable moments. It really looked like he had fallen down the mad scientist path at this point, but that was fine - it was done.

He had already selected one of the AU’s that met his criteria. It was listed as a string of letters and numbers like all the others, as he didn’t know what it was classified as by the Star Council, and it’s not like he has much data on what each AU is like in the first place to give accurate names.

His requirements were as follows: No barrier, no resets. Monsters and Humans living peacefully on the Surface.

He would have chosen one without humans, but Papyrus had always wanted to meet one so … humans it was.

The lack of barrier and resets were easy to add by excluding results showing their specific magic frequencies present in the worlds.

It was a shock to see that there were some AU’s without any resets, but he shouldn’t have been surprised. What was a surprise was to see his universe had a higher than average reset rate, so the sooner they left the better. 

There were quite a few without barriers as well.

He couldn’t really build a program to separate peaceful universes, but he came as close as he could. He could specify minimal human/monster murder rates by searching for low LV frequencies from humans and monsters within 50 mile radius of the machine - by no means perfect, but it should narrow it down. 

It had taken a few extra resets to come up with that idea, but when he sensed Flowey's high LV through the wall as he no doubt murdered everyone in Snowdin again, it came to him.

He had managed to narrow it down to 204850 AU’s and/or Copies … at least it gave a number now. Before, it just came up with 'Error' there were so many.

Unable to decide, Sans quickly created a Random button that would pick one from the list of those he narrowed it down to. Let the machine decide for him.

His most vital notes were tucked into the safety of his inventory, just in case the Flower managed to break in here while he was gone. One also needed fingers to operate the machine.

Wouldn’t do well to let flowers follow, now would it?

He had one final thing left to decide … did he bring Papyrus with him for the live test, or does he wait till he knows it works by testing it alone?

Sure, if they blew up, Flowey would just reset, but it would intentionally be putting Papyrus at risk, even if it wasn’t permanent. 

He also didn’t want to be the one to make the choice for him.

5:58:12 PM. 

Papyrus should be finished his training with Undyne and on his way back.

...He’ll have to tell him, won't he? 

…

It was harder to do than he thought it would be, but he gave Papyrus a call.

“HELLO SANS! I WAS JUST RETURNING WITH THE SPOILS OF YET ANOTHER GREAT TRAINING SESSION WITH UNDYNE! SHE SEEMED TENSE TODAY, BUT MY PRESENCE WAS ENOUGH TO BRING BACK THAT SMILE SHE LOVES TO WEAR SO MUCH, NYEH HEH HEH!”

“sounds great bro. after we eat, i was wondering if i could show you something.”

“SHOW ME SOMETHING ...? GASP! ARE YOU REFERRING TO THE SUPER SECRET PROJECT YOU HAVE BEEN PASSIONATELY TAKEN WITH RECENTLY? THE ONE IN OUR BASEMENT???” 

“yup.”

“WOWIE!!! I’LL BE RIGHT OVER! EVEN THOUGH I WAS GOING THERE ANYWAY! NYEH HEH HEH!”

Papyrus hung up.

He would no doubt be here very shortly.

Sans half heartedly cleared a path to the machine. Good enough.

He knew Papyrus had arrived by the slam of the front door opening. A quick shortcut and he was in the living room in front of an excited Papyrus.

“hey bro.” he relaxed at seeing Papyrus’ energy and gave a genuine, if tired smile.

He didn’t see the flash of yellow heading toward the back of the house as Papyrus closed the door.

***

(Authors Note: Now, see - i could have left it here as a cliffhanger, like any other self respecting author would. But i like you tho. So have some more - i know you’re really here for the bitties anyway)

***

“SO. YOU CREATED A MACHINE THAT WILL BRING MONSTERS TO THE SURFACE - BUT NOT OUR SURFACE - WHERE HUMANS AND MONSTERS ARE ALREADY MINGLING. BUT YOU NEED TO TEST IF IT REALLY WORKS, AND YOU WERE WONDERING IF I WOULD JOIN YOU IN IT’S TRIAL RUN?”

“that about sums it up.”

“AND YOU GOT THIS IDEA FROM A LETTER, SENT FROM AN ALTERNATE YOU IN A DIFFERENT UNIVERSE, THAT WAS SOMEHOW IN THE FUTURE???”

“yup.”

“WOWIE!!! I’LL PACK MY BAGS!” Papyrus said excited.

“really…?” Sans asks nervously.

“REALLY! CAN YOU PICTURE IT SANS? THE GREAT PAPYRUS, THE FIRST TO TRAVEL TO ANOTHER REALITY! I’LL BE SO POPULAR!!! IT’S JUST LIKE THOSE CHILD CARTOONS UNDYNE LIKES!”

With that, Papyrus ran up to pack.

Sans sighed, but couldn’t help a smile and chuckle. Of course Papyrus would want to come. He's cool like that.

“join me in the basement when you’re ready bro!”

Papyrus gave an affirmative and Sans teleported to the machine to give it one more once over.

All good.

6:14:17 PM.

He was peering into the inside where he and Papyrus would have to stand when they turned it on. It would be a tight fight, but he was sure they would make it work.

He heard the door open behind him and he called out to Papyrus.

“hey, bro. i was sure you would have taken long-”

That wasn’t Papyrus.

"-er."

Sans froze.

“Don’t think I don’t know what you planning trashbag.” Flowey spat, demonic face leering. “You’re trying to get rid of me, aren’t you? Well - I won’t let you! Not even this DOOR would stop me forever!”

Flowey laughed evilly as he summoned a thick vine to toss Sans into the machine.

The force of the whip like attack was enough to crack a couple ribs. His radius snapped near his wrist when he tried to use a hand to cushion his land as he hit the back of the machine's insides.

-0.6 hp.

???

There was no killing intent in the blow. The damage was purely physical.

Confused and in pain, the door hissed shut as Flowey managed to summon enough vines to mimic fingers.

“Killing you won't be enough anymore - have a taste of whatever it was you tried to do to me!” Flowey cackled. “DIE!”

Flowey hit enter and the machine hummed to life, quickly building up a near blinding light.

The last thing he saw was a shocked Papyrus standing in the doorway. He was holding many bags and wearing an outfit more appropriate for a beach trip than Snowdin.

“S-Sans …?” The glass and machine made Papyrus' loud voice muffled.

The bags dropped to the floor.

Flowey looked between the brothers, surprised by the new arrival ... before giving Sans it’s most manic smile yet.

“RUN!” Sans yelled to Papyrus, praying he would listen.

Sans felt an intense crushing feeling that was more than just dread.

And then he was gone.

***

(Author's Note: I could have totally left it here too XD)

***

*Bittytale_Copy38*

***

Suddenly, Sans is falling. It didn’t take him long to land.

He landed badly, pain going through his ribs and radius. He groaned as he pushed himself up with his working arm into a sitting position. He was dizzy, tingly and slightly smoking.

He reached to grab the pocket watch and was relieved to see it was not damaged.

Not that he could see much. Did he mention it was dark? Because it was.

Did he end up in another AU like the machine was meant to do …? Hopefully. It's sad Papyrus wouldn’t be able to join this time, but Sans knew at least Flowey would probably reset after he was done … probably. There was always next time. He’d definitely have to create a more thought out security system than ‘need fingers to operate,’ because apparently that wasn’t enough anymore.

And that was when he noticed another pair of eyelights. They were red.

“how in the fuck..?” a gravelly voice from their direction.

Sans sight had adapted enough to make out two other forms. And yep. They looked just like silhouettes of Sans and Papyrus. Or, very close at least. It was still dark. Was it night? That answered weather he was in another universe at the very least though. So that was something. 

He looked at their surroundings. They appeared to be in some sort of room without windows or doors. No wonder they seemed surprised to see someone 'drop in.'

Welp, ok then. One thing at a time - introductions seems like a good start. Good thing he thought this far ahead. Classic's nickname had him thinking about some he could use.

Hopefully it wasn’t already taken, or things could be awkward.

“hi. i’m undertale sans number 208.” He stood up and held out his good arm. “you can call me count.”

And promptly passed out.

Chapter Text

The two edgy bitties exchanged a look as the Sansy named Count collapsed. They were thinking the same thing. 

Who the fuck was this bitty?

First, he manages to teleport through a solid object to get inside the box, a feat of magic in a bitty near unheard of. Secondly, he calls himself “Undertale Sans number 208.” It was possible he was referring to being the 208th Sansy produced, making him about 20 years old, but neither knew what the hell he was referring to when he said “Undertale.” 

Maybe it was the street name of his last family.

The shorter fell bitty was wearing a black jacket with fur lining, He looked to his taller counterpart (wearing a red and black plaid cardigan) who was staring at the collapsed heap in befuddlement. To anyone unfamiliar with this taller fell type of bitty, they would have mistaken most his expressions for constant glaring. 

The smoke appeared to be clearing at least, and hadn’t risen to an uncomfortable level. 

“hey uh, dagger …” The shorter asks, sweating and fingers flexing. “you think this is gonna look … bad?” 

“HUH?”

The taller fell, Dagger, finally taking his eyes off the surprise guest. It had been clear by the way the Sansy had gotten up that he was at least somewhat injured.

Dagger scoffed realizing what was insinuated.

“AND WHY WOULD WE LOOK BAD, CLOAK?” He crossed his arms, not making eye contact, looking anything but happy. “WE ARE CLEARLY NOT AT THE FAULT OF THIS BITTY PUSHING HIS LIMITS.”

The shorter fell, named Cloak, shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other.

“… we both know they’re not gonna listen to that. they’re gonna take one look at an injured bitty in a box with two fells and that’s that.” then quieter, he added. “and when they see our records of returns and … well.”

Near imperceptibly, Dagger began to pout as he tapped his foot. He knew this wasn’t a good situation for them, but it was just unfair.

The two of them had been passed from one home to the next, being blamed for destruction and other things. Sure, they were indeed the culprit for some things, as Cloak had a bad habit of breaking and clawing things when stressed, and Dagger did not feel safe around animals or being physically handled by children and strangers and would fire off a few warning shots when things went too far. 

But half the time it was because a pre existing pet or child instigated the behavior - but that couldn’t possibly be the real culprit, as fells were notorious house wreckers and can be violent. The entitlement of some people...

Who cares if the pamphlet explains it’s due to stressful environments and they were bitties recommended for those without pets or children? Not enough potential buyers, that’s for sure.

Who cares that they were originally created for a specific, at risk demographic, in order to fight off burglars and assholes, or to ensure that someone was able to call help should someone end up in a nasty situation? A demographic including elderly, special needs and people with traumatic experiences that don’t feel safe alone?

Who cares that somewhere in the creation process something “went wrong” causing them to lean toward less than savory speech patterns? Granny knew the f-word looong before her kids were even a consideration, sweetie. No need for any lawsuits to get in a twist about it.

They are not a regular family pet. They are a protective bitty type meant for guarding a single, or maybe - maybe - double ward. A family was too many to keep track of for a four inch guard. The problem was, the company hadn't expected just how many people would ignore the very clear guidelines.

It seemed like everyone forgot that, what with how ‘cool’ looking they were, they were meant to be a working bitty. And now their reputation has gone to shit and debates about discontinuing their type are ongoing.

A fell bitty bites a child because they can’t breathe in their crushing grip? The bitties fault for not “playing nice.” Attacking abusive parents to protect the kids the bitty for obvious reasons? Those things are fucking farrel.

There was no winning where kids were involved.

Not everything was shit though. Once in a while a good fit would show up.

The best place Cloak and Dagger had stayed, by far, was a retirement home. Their Old Lady was a recent widow and an Alzheimer's patient. She’d often ask where her husband was and would thank the “small gentlemen” for their help, even if half the time she didn’t recognize them.

She was such a sweet Old Lady. Her husband had gotten them as a gift. When he was asked why fell bitties, he simply said, “With two spitfires such as yourselves watching over my bunny, I can rest easy knowing she’s safe.”

It was only after he had passed soon after that they learned he was ex-military and had been awarded multiple badges for valor. 

They would have given their life for that Lady. But time was not on their side and one night, she quietly passed in her sleep to follow her husband. Her once bright, warm green soul was gone by the morning.

Of course, things went to shit again, real fast.

The month that followed was the worst in their lives as the greedy grandchild that never visited decided to try a hand at bitty fighting. The two had almost lost Hope several times over that month. But luckily the idiot forgot his phone a little too close to the cage one day and they had managed to call the police. He and several others got busted.

Cloak had been through two fights and Dagger had managed his one. 

The next owner had had enough of dealing with the “extra baggage from an ex fighter.” And now, here they were. Abandoned once again on the next center's doorstep.

Hopefully they would get another chance. But it was slim. And now that this injured bitty was here? The odds looked damn impossible.

“WELL. SEEING AS THIS IS A BAD SITUATION ALL AROUND. I ELECT TO ATTEMPT … HEALING MAGIC.”

Dagger scowled knowing he was possibly about to drain a significant store of magic. They had experience healing after they were forced from necessity to learn the skill. Neither were very good at it. He began to approach the other bitty cautiously. It would be better to pass out from lack of magic than pass up the chance of not being so screwed. 

“you sure ...?” Cloak asked, fingers still flexing. 

Cloak really wanted to just shred some cardboard, but he knew from experience a few places take that negatively. Though … maybe he could get away with a couple of good scratches without it being seen as an escape attempt …? Maybe this place had someone with more than two brain cells to rub together and could see it for what it was without being all in his face about it.

Besides. Like hell a bitty with a lick of sense would attempt to cut it on their own on the streets. Not only were there predators, but if a bitty couldn’t get enough soul energy for a few weeks, they’d be dust anyway. Not to mention food and clean water. And it probably wasn’t the best idea to cuddle up with some homeless guy without ‘em knowing … though that probably worked for some, Cloak would be beyond stressed about it.

As Dagger was about to pass him to get to Count, Cloak added, “we don’ know how bad it is an’ it still might not help our situation.”

Dagger lightly hit the back of Cloak's head as he passed.

“THE SEVERITY IS OF NO CONCERN TO WHAT MUST BE DONE. AND REGARDLESS OF THE USEFULNESS OF HELPING THIS BITTY, I REFUSE TO TAKE THE CHANCE THAT IT WILL NOT AT LEAST PROVIDE SOME AID TO OUR SITUATION. I EXPECT YOU TO ASSIST AND ACTUALLY PULL YOUR WEIGHT FOR A CHANGE.”

Cloak gave an exaggerated sigh, but followed him over. When Dagger really made a decision, he stuck to it. He hadn't been making many recently and Cloak had been worried. He had taken the Old Lady's death and following fight exceedingly hard. He knew he was a softy on the inside, so having to kill after the life they had had ... it took a lot out of him.

Cloak clawed the wall of the box in some spots as he made his way over. He made sure they were shallow enough that it won't leave holes. Satisfying as it was, feeling the cardboard shred a bit under his claws, it didn’t do much for his nerves. He knew he wasn’t as skilled as Dagger at healing, but what he lacked in quality he could make up in quantity and get a similar result.

The two did their best to examine him for injuries and treat what they could.

He had a radial break near his wrist. It was snapped cleanly, making what should have been one bone into two. The only thing keeping the bone from swinging about was the Sansy’s own mana lines struggling to reconnect the two sides. 

Cloak wrinkled his nasal ridge. He had gotten a similar one when he failed to break his fall properly during his last fight. It looked like it would heal well at least.

Furthermore, his sternum and several ribs were covered in cracks  - two pretty bad, three lighter in severity. 

He was leaking red from the worst cracks and radius. 

This really didn’t look good for them seeing how recent the injuries were. They were unsure if they would even be able to heal him all the way, or even enough to cover most of the damage. But they would try. They were lucky they probably had a few hours before the center opened. They were gonna need it.

How the guy had managed to hide his pain so well was a mystery. There didn’t appear to be any scars from previous injuries, so it wasn’t likely experience.

Cloak whistles at the damage.

Dagger took the lead.

“I WILL TAKE THE RIBS, AS THEY REQUIRE MORE DELICACY. YOU TAKE THE RADIUS. IT IS LUCKY IT IS LINED UP WELL. IF EITHER OF US FINISH BEFORE THE OTHER, WE FORM A JOINT EFFORT.”

When it comes to breaks, the cleaner the break, the cleaner the heal … if one had the energy for it. That’s where Cloak came in.

“you got it boss.” He said with a wink, sweating with nerves.

“UGH.” Dagger proclaimed, pouting. “YOU KNOW I DISLIKE YOU CALLING ME BY TYPE! THAT IT DOUBLED AS A PUN MADE IT DOUBLY PAINFUL.”

“you’re absolutely right. i’ve seen the error of my ways.” A pause and a shit eating grin. “glad ya could edge me in the right direction.”

“THIS IS THE WORST. YOU ARE A HORRIBLE CREATURE. AND I HATE YOU.”

Dagger sent a small bone attack his way without even glancing his way and Cloak easily dodged.

They both set to work, hands glowing green healing magic.

“same.” He said, as he worked on Count’s arm. “but y’know what they say. ‘sticks and stones …’”

“... THAT WAS ABSOLUTELY TASTLEST.”

“i know … but it cracked me up.”

“FUCK YOU.”

They were both smiling. Well, Dagger was trying not too and would deny it.

Whether to hide or postpone the underlying worry about what might happen to them next, they still smiled. They’d worry about that when it came up. At least they weren’t alone.

The two healed Count to the best of their abilities, right until their magic reserves ran dry. They were rather pleased with the result. He would have scars, but they did well. It was their best work yet.

Then the bitties did what any bitty would do after exhausting themselves. 

And settled back to sleep next to the closest source of soul energy.

***

It was brighter when Sans - Count - began to wake. And warm. The cave lighting must be sneaking through his curtains again. Must be Tomorrow. He didn’t bother opening his eyes. Firsts were always a little stressful, and a little exciting, but it wasn’t anything he couldn’t handle. He was pretty apathetic to things, but he had a goal now.

Count was quite cozy and about to go back to sleep, amused about the dream he had about his machine working. Well, maybe not the way he had planned, but it got there in the end. It put him in a good mood and he decided to treat his lazier side a bit.

He shifted to get even more comfortable and there was a grunt and mumbling as his elbow bumped something. The sound was not from him.

His eyes lit up and he was up like a light trying to get some distance from the other him only to trip a bit over the Papyrus alternate who also grunted awake.

He was a couple feet away when he turned to the other Sans who groggily said, “what the fuck’s wrong wit’ ya?” He seemed to be scanning the room for disturbances but didn’t seem to find any and laid back down. “go back ta sleep. we should be taken in soon.”

“NO.” The Papyrus got up. “WE SHOULD PROBABLY BE AWAKE FOR THAT SO WE AREN’T JOSTLED TO BAD. AND IT WON'T DO WELL FOR YOU TO LAZE AROUND AND TARNISH ARE REPUTATION FURTHER.” 

The Papyrus appeared to be glaring back and forth between the Sans’.

Now that there was more light, he could clearly see their … sharper appearance. The other him even had a gold tooth.

“ok. woah.” Count said, not following. “taken in? jostled? and why the hell were you cuddling me???”

The red eyed Sans snorted as he stood. “heh. sansy said ‘hell.’ nice.” Then he looked confused and a bit angry/offended as the next bit processed. “what the fuck are ya talking about cuddling for? no need to make the pile weird bub. no one likes that kind o’ bitty. where the fuck were you raised?”

“oh, sorry for not enjoying the surprise of another encroaching on my personal space as i sleep.”

The other Sans was in his face in a flash. His fingers flexed as he stared him down.

“keep it up, pet and see if i ever heal your ass again.”

“OKAY!” The two receive hits to the backs of their heads. “WE ALL NEED TO TAKE A STEP BACK. OR ELSE. AND CLOAK, THERE WAS NO NEED TO USE THAT KIND OF LANGUAGE, EVEN IF COUNT IS AT FAULT.”

Count was blinking at the fact that a Papyrus had hit him. Not hard, but still. He must be experiencing culture shock.

“i’ll fucking call him a "pet" if i want because he fucking is! a fucking entitled little pet sansy. you see his lab coat and stuff. that shit custom.”

“THAT MAY BE, BUT CLEARLY SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED FOR HIM TO BE HERE NOW.”

“but dagger, he-”

“NO.”

“he’s just so-”

“NO.”

“just one hit-”

“ABSOLUTELY NOT!" His hand were on his hip and he was tapping his foot. "WE DIDN’T JUST HEAL HIM TO BEAT HIM UP ALL OVER AGAIN. YOU KNOW WHAT COULD HAPPEN.”

“… tch. fine.” He went over to a wall and began slashing at it.

Recovering from the smack, Count noticed there were other marks on some other walls. Weirdly, the walls looked like … cardboard??? He put that bizarreness out of his mind. The letter did say things got weird. Oh - maybe it was normal to cuddle here and that’s why they were mad? That really is weird. And was probably wrong. He’d have to find a library and do some research before returning. Probably ask his and his brothers' alternates about the place if he can get on better terms.

He could leave Papyrus in his world for a few days. Or months, seeing as even if things are reset there, things should keep moving here at a rate of about 35 to 1 days on average. What a weird concept in itself, to have time move normally. If he timed it well enough, he could probably appear home before he even left if he wanted - just wait until Flowey reset the week - but that would involve a lot of chance and be kinda pointless and risky. Should take about two weeks to recreate the machine and do research. Then he can get a feel for the area and head home a few seconds after he left to give Asgore the news … or just his bro depending on some things.

He took out his watch.

2:34:56 AM.

Still ticking. But judging by the light, it was inaccurate. Probably a change in time zone. But it was about 8 hours since he got there. He’d have to fix his watch asap.

He paid the Papyrus' gaze little attention, as he had been watching him and his alternate quietly with what seemed be a glaring intensity. 

Then he realized something about the light, as where he was supposed to be just clicked - the Surface.

“holy shit ... is this real sunlight!?”

He couldn’t help stare at it in aw, eyelights no doubt dilating largely in a way they haven’t in years. Since childhood even. He gave an experimental swipe through the beam of light, putting his hand in it for longer each time. The sound of clawing had stopped, but he was entranced and payed it no mind. Then, he found himself a spot to have the most hit him as he closed his eyes. It was warm. Warmer than the lights in the Underground and so much nicer. There was a rumbling sound, but he ignored that too. He just … if he could just stay like this forever. Or at least the next … day or so.

“HAVE YOU … NEVER SEEN SUNLIGHT BEFORE…?”

The rumbling stopped as he remembered he wasn’t alone. The Papyrus was watching him.

His reply was a near whisper. “no … never. i had no clue it was so … warm. i mean i had heard rumors from the old timers, but the artificial lights just don’t compare.” and even quieter, he looked up at the beaming warm light. “i wish papyrus was here to see this with me.”

He missed the concerned looks the two shot each other.

“AND … WHERE WERE YOU BEFORE YOU WERE HERE?”

“i was home.” Count explained. “the sun doesn’t reach the underground.”

“but .. you’ve been to a bitty center before, right? right?? how could you’ve not seen the sun before?”

Count looks away from the light at the questions confused.

“you’ve said that word before but … what’s a bitty?”

***

(Authors Note: oh god - resist the crazy cliffhanger potential - your nowhere near 3000 words yet! sees it's 3167 ... keeps going anyway XD)

***

The two looked at him like he was crazy.

(Not) 2:41:28 AM.

Not even the right kind of crazy. Rude. Do new interdimensional travelers get this a lot? Probably. 

Cloak spoke haltingly and with concern that didn’t look like it fit on his sharp face as he attempted to explain.

“you … you are a bitty. we?” he pointed between him and Dagger like he was an idiot. “we are bitties. bitties … are …  a bitty is … you - you must be shitting us right? There’s no way you don’t know what a bitty is.”

Count tapped his chin. “sooo it’s like a different term for monster here?”

“no! you’re not-”

He was interrupted as the floor - and room - violently shifted as if thrown by some great force. They all lost their balance.

An exclaimed “Fuck” could be heard outside … and up.

Suddenly the top of the room exploded open with the sound of paper dragged against paper, light pouring in. The roof was gone. And in its place the giant face of a frowning human could be seen looming over them.

Count was terrified. He had no clue what was happening.

“Oh. Sorry guys." The giant human said, sounding male and not very sorry. "Didn’t see you round the corner.” 

“tch. watch where you’re steppin’ asshole.” Cloak muttered. But the two were otherwise quiet.

The human then picked up the room - which count was beginning to believe was not really a room - as Count was having a small existential crisis and froze to the spot as he slid to a corner. He couldn't even appreciate the first sight of the sky the opening allotted him.

He began moving under a massive arch with the words “No Bones About It.” 

Had Count not been thoroughly freaking out internally, he would have appreciated the words.

The Human managed to shuffle the cardboard box - because that’s what it was - into one hand, causing Counts soul to practically stutter to a halt at every jostle. He was intensely aware of the fact that he might drop them. The massive human did this without a second thought in order to unlock and open a glass door covered in flyers for bitty's. 

A purple poster proclaimed this a no kill drop off for unwanted bitties.

Count couldn’t read more of them as the door was already behind them.

“I’ll get you guys checked in shortly. Uh - maybe not mention my screw up?”

“whatever.” Cloak said, grouchy.

Dagger stayed silent, scowling, but not meeting the human gaze.

They didn’t appear to be surprised by the size of the human, so Count tried to find it in himself to calm down. Now that the surprise was over, apathy was quick to return as he just decided not to care. If it worked when his family and friend were murdered, he could handle this.

“Okay then.” the human said, unhappy, setting them down on what must be a desk, judging by the tower sized pile of paper Count saw the top of. “Well get this done quick. We’re getting a fresh shipment in any minute.”

He disappeared for a second and returned with some sort of scanner-gun.

“You're up first, Edge.”

“tch.” He stood separate from the others and flexed his fingers as the machine scanned him.

“Huh. I’m used to more swearing from your type. Glad I didn’t need to get the gloves.”

The way he said it made Cloak shudder. Clearly the gloves weren’t a found memory.

As soon as the scan was done he went back to stand by Dagger with a slumped posture. Dagger gave him a discrete pat.

The human disappeared and there was the sound of a keyboard. He whistled at what he saw on the assumedly connected computer screen.

“Well, you’ve certainly been around. And built up quite the records. Damage to persons and property alike and … ex-fighter? Huh.”

There was more clacking and he made his way back over to the box.

“Your turn Boss.”

Dagger stood tall, but remained silent and tense as the process repeated. His face was stony throughout and even after he went back to Cloak. But Count would have sworn his face cringed when the human had called him Boss.

“Ok. I see you’ve been at one more home than Edge before you two were paired up, after you were taken from the abusive family. Also plenty of complaints of violence and a dip in the rings.”

Count could see Dagger barely holding himself back from out right attacking the guy for his nonchalant attitude of describing such personal and probably traumatic events. Cloaks grip on his forearm probably helped too.

Now that Count took a closer look, he noticed the two had LV. Not much, but still. From the way they reacted to the mention of the “rings,” it probably wasn’t something they had set out for. But … they had healed him. He wouldn’t be a good Judge if he didn’t take more than LV into consideration. 

Almost five years into the resets, Count had gone through a phase of hunting down the weed for any - and that meant any - LOVE. It was just too much effort to keep up and it didn’t last more than a “week.” It had been the start of the Flowey ambushing too. 

It’s been fifteen years since then, or almost six “months” of varying length, but it still haunts him, what he had been capable of when driven to that. A death without Mercy. It was especially hard when the flower started bringing Papyrus into it as a body shield.

20 years of resets (give or take - he wasn't counting the whole time) … he could still hardly believe he had found an out, and with how surreal things were, it may take awhile yet for it to sink in.

By this point, he had figured out what a “bitty” is on his own. They were property. A product. And these two appear to have been driven into a corner many times, and still found it in them to heal a stranger … he’d have to thank them properly. Even if they had gotten off on the wrong foot.

“Alright. Sansy? Up an at ‘em.”

Count stood up from the corner he had slid too, not having bothered getting up when he had fallen until now, and copied what the other two did. It didn’t take a genius to figure out he was supposed to be “Sansy.” Cloak had even said the term in passing if he recalled correctly.

The guy scanned, checked the computer, and asked to scan again.

“Huh. it was just working … it can’t be a malfunction-” he was interrupted by a beep on the computer. “Shit. New shipment is here. Sit tight.”

He was about to leave before he decided to throw in an orange and closed the lid, putting the bitties back in semi darkness.

The orange was as tall as Dagger and it still had the peeling on it.

(Not) 3:03:21 AM.

“what an asshole.” Cloak exclaimed the moment he was gone.

“HE DID INDEED BEAR RESEMBLANCE TO THE ANIMAL. IF HE WERE OUT IN A PETTING ZOO, I DOUBT EVEN HIS MOTHER WOULD VISIT IF PAID.”

Cloak snorted, but silence soon settled and tension rose. Both Cloak and Dagger were ignoring Count to the best of their abilities. Which was, not well as they kept glancing at him.

Cloak sighed.

Dagger crossed his arms.

Count attempted to break the ice.

“so-” 

He was immediately cut off.

“well i’m hungry! let's eat!”

He proceeds to wander over to the fruit and stab it with a sharpened bone attack. He began carving out edible sized chunks and Dagger joined in. Nifty trick. Count would have to try out sharpened bones sometime when he’s too lazy to get a proper knife to cook.

(Not) 3:04:52 AM.

He tried again to break the awkward air.

“he shouldn’t have said that stuff like that-” -was the wrong thing to say.

“the fuck you saying-” He seemed even more pissed, shaking his sticky attack in Counts face. “-get the fuck outta here with your pathetic pitying or you can get your own fucking food!”

Time to back track. Lazy persona activated.

“what? orange you gonna share? i’ll admit, it was pretty f-rude of me.”

Cloak muttered something about Sansy’s and their g rated shit puns.

Dagger continued to scowl but otherwise ignored them as he worked.

Looking to the attack in Cloak's hand, then back to eye contact, Count said, “i can see your point. guess i’ll wait impale you reconsider.”

One could hear a pin drop as Cloak looked on in shock. His jaws were partially parted.

And then laughter rang out.

“ho-holy shit." He practically doubled over. "Th-that was better than you saying “hell!” hah hah!”

“eh.” Count shrugged. “a dose of killer puns won't hurt anyone - they’ll all be laughing to death any way.”

Dagger sighed in exasperation, holding a couple large chunks of orange he had cut out.

“IF YOU TO ARE DONE MAKING FOOLS OF YOURSELVES, CAN WE EAT?”

“fine.” Cloak said. “but no more mushy topics.”

“deal. but first, i’d just like to say tha-”

“nope. that sounds like mushy-voice-tone for mushy things. outta here with that wimpy shit.”

Dagger handed them each a chunk and kept on for himself. It was bigger than the size of his head. They sat down in a circle.

“fine.” Count conceded, not wanting another argument. “later then.”

He’d thank them later.

“fuck off.” Was his reply.

Playing along, Count mock scratched his cheek with his middle finger, causing Cloak to laugh again and Dagger to roll his eyes. Apparently, a “Sansy” being so blatantly crude was hilarious. He barely remembered a time where that may have been true for him. But it’s not like there was any reason to be rude back home - save for one weed in need of a good pruning. After knowing the script for so long, each unexpected reaction these guys pulled was the most hilarious thing to him. Apathy still pulled at him, but he at least he managed to feel … content.

This wasn’t too bad.

But there was no way he was staying in this universe to be some pet. But … how in the hell would he make his machine again when everything was so disproportionately large? He’d either have to make some major revisions or get some bigger help. But who would help him? He'll figure it out. Eventually. For now he just needs to bide his time and learn. 

He's very patient.

***

Anti_Void

***

Error is knitting a new Ink doll, sitting in his beanbag. Fresh stole his last one and it “mysteriously” ended up in the Star Council meeting hall one day. Ink is still convinced it was a secret gift from Blue. Error would prefer it stay that way.

Error’s minding his own business, keeping half an eye on the multiverse while his needles click away in the endless white expanse he calls home. Blue strings and red souls decorate the “ceiling,” and dolls of the many Sans’ offer the only other colors in this colorless non-world. Aside from the glitch himself that is. A rerun of Undernovella was playing on his portal.

“hUh.” 

He receives an alert of excessive anomalous activity emitting from Undertale_Copy208.

“wOnDeR wHaT tHe FuSs Is AbOuT.”

The voices seemed to find this one particularly interesting. Which usually meant bad things or weird things. Or both - mostly both.

He sure was getting a lot of alerts recently. 

Welp … it was time to get to work.

He was called the Destroyer of Worlds for a reason.

Maybe he'll see what has the voices so interested before he was done with the place.

He folds his glasses away and opens a portal to get started.

...

An Error has entered Undertale_Copy208.

Chapter Text

Count was surprised they had managed to finish the whole orange, even with the three of them going at it.

It was bigger than he was tall, even with arms outstretched for crying out loud ... and he was still a little hungry. Though the other two appeared content by what was in itself a disproportionately large amount, they were pretty surprised when he went back to finish it off.

“where the fuck are you puttin’ that all? you’re gonna make yourself sick and i will not be held responsible for the fallout.” Cloak had said.

Count could only shrug and put it down to his, “big appetite.” 

If his food consumption was any indicator, he could probably assume that he was the one to have shrunk, rather than everything else in the universe being massively big. Which felt like a kind of “no duh” situation. Unfortunately he somehow managed to retain most of the metabolism of a much larger being. It was a good thing Papyrus had brought back a lot of his “training spaghetti” last night before things went haywire - but he’d be fine for a few days of “dieting.” His mostly healed injuries probably also had something to do with it. Which he still needed to thank the two for.

Finally done with the orange, the remaining peels and seeds shoved in a corner, Count did his best to wipe the juice off on his already dirty lab coat. Luckily his sweater and t-shirt were still pretty okay by his standards.

His thumb phalange traced the crack on his radius. When he got back, he would definitely have to find a way to pay back the weed.

Too bad flowers don’t have bones.

(Not) 3:13:23 AM.

This would have to stop. He couldn’t stand it being incorrect any longer. It was seriously distracting. Well, more than it usually is.

So, with an exaggerated stretch as he stood, he looked to the other two who were chatting about some violent video game.

“back in a jiff.” He said.

Wasting no more time (heh), he shortcut to the side of the stack of paper he saw earlier, and before gravity even began to kick in, he cut to the top of the box he was looking at from the outside. This allowed him his first good view of the office. It was … unimpressive.

Shortcutting might get annoying at some point, as he needs to have seen somewhere before in order to go there - and pictures don’t work. He’d have been on the Surface long before, had he been able to do that. And being as this was an entirely new universe, he didn’t exactly have very many locations he could shortcut to yet. Another thing to add to his “to do list.”

The office looked pretty nondescript if a bit cluttered. No window, two desks back to back in what basically amounted to a closet. Though for Count it was rather massive at the moment … that would probably take some getting used too.

It didn’t take him long to find what he was looking for. The computer was right beside the box after all.

Before he cut to the keyboard he heard an exclamation from inside the box.

“wha-? what the fuck!?”

Getting an idea, Count cut to right beside the box and knocked twice.

“knock knock.” He said amused.

“how in the -”

“that’s not how it goes. knock knock.”

“...who’s there.”

“count.”

“count who.”

“count you keep it down? i’m busy out here.”

Count made his way over to the keyboard and hit the gigantic space key. It came up password protected. It had been about ten minutes since the guy left. It probably automatically logged out. That wouldn’t be a problem for long.

But immediately he came up with the problem of how to press multiple keys at once, each a bigger than his hands. As an expert at the art of shortcuts, of course he is aware of the ones for a computer as well. He worked hard to be so efficient - or as Papyrus would say, “lazy.”

It didn't take long to think of a solution though. Right. Of course. The answer was simple. Use attacks to type. Duh. 

“hey … uh …” Cloak started. “mind tellin’ me how you did that trick?”

“hmm?” He concentrated on summoning a few bones. Three massive bones appeared. Each a lot bigger than even twenty times his current height. Huh. Guess his magic didn’t shrink with him. He dismissed them and focused on making smaller ones that would be easier to work with. Success. “oh. you mean the shortcut? can’t you do that?”

He started typing, bypassing the password entirely. The security was horrible.

“yeah i can fucking shortcut.” Cloak said immediately defensive “but i can’t do - that wasn’t a fucking shortcut. you musta done somethin’ else.”

“hmm. it certainly felt like a shortcut.” He opened up settings and looked for the time - got to get those seconds lined up too while he had the chance. “why? what’s a shortcut to you?”

“ya can’t just cut through physical matter like that!” He finally burst. “not without leaving yourself minutes from dust no how! i just don’t get you!”

“huh. good to know.” He twisted the spindle until the times matched up and breathed a sigh of relief. He looked to the door to see if he had more time to look into what bitties were. “keep this between us then, m’kay? i’ll owe you one.”

He probably shouldn’t risk it. Just lay low for today. Maybe when everyone went to sleep he could sneak back in and do his research.

“the actual fuck. you think i’m gonna snitch to the damn human?”

8:54:37 AM.

Much better. And apparently it’s thursday and summer here. Neat.

“well, i mean, not unless you had a good reason.”

He closed settings and made sure to log out, leaving the rest as it was.

“i ain’t a bitty snitch!”

Count cut back into the box. Cloak was facing the box wall that had the computer beyond. Dagger noticed him first, but didn’t say anything, just watching from the sideline, eyesockets narrowed.

“never called you one.” He pointed out.

Cloak jumped and twirld to face him, not expecting Count to be back in the box already. Count got a good look over before Cloak spat the words towards him.

“you’re a weird fuckin’ bitty know that?”

He just shrugged. Considering he wasn't a bitty, that should be a given. He'd have to learn to blend in for now.

“and you know what? fuck it. i was willing to ignore your weird ability to bleed, but now? i think my curiosity deserves a little compensation.”

Count was genuinely surprised. 

“i was bleeding? how bad? you didn't touch it did you???”

He was sure his determination had been running out the last few years in the resets, showing a downward trend since after the five year mark. What changed? Why now …? 

The letter. His machine. He finally had something to work toward again and it reacted in a way to drive him on. A pretty good theory to form off the top of his head if he did say so himself. Before he was living just to live so Papyrus wouldn’t be stuck alone for seemingly no reason. But it had been progressively hard to see a point in even that for a while and his dt levels had reflected that.

"why the fuck would i touch it?" Cloak looked ant him like he was an idiot again.

Healing only required hovering, but it was good to double check. Who knew what dt would do to someone so small?

“SO EVEN YOU DO NOT KNOW?”

Count blinked having already forgotten about Dagger as he was so quiet.

“no, i have an idea." He admitted, pretty comfortable with these two. "i just don't feel like talking about the time i was a lab rat in my youth, or the particulars pertaining to the science.”

The two looked shocked and horrified, Dagger actually showing a different expression other than glaring.

“... a fucking lab rat?”

“hey. i didn't make a thing out of you being in a ring, did i?” Count shrugged, trying not to feel too uncomfortable. This was the most he'd spoken about this in a while. “besides. i could be exaggerating. it was a looong time ago. most of it has gone blurry by now. got several ph.d’s worth knowledge out of it though.”

Before more could be said, they heard the doorknob to the office jangle before coming to a halt. The guy was on the phone and it was muffled through the door but still legible. 

8:58:49 AM.

“Yeah, okay. Saturday it is.” the guy said, pausing before the door. “Believe me, these guys are better off dust … Yeah, the usual. See ya then. Gotta go, store’s gotta be open for 9-ish.”

They heard the door finally open as the guy hung up the phone.

***

(Authors Note: why is there always cliffhanger potential in the middle??? I just wanna spoil youuuu!!!)

***

… did that human just do what Count thought he did? He wouldn’t … that poster said this was a “no kill drop off” he remembered.

Cloak's eyelights had gone out and Daggers posture had gone lax from shock.

“i-” Before Count could even get more than a word in, the top of the box opened.

One of Cloak’s eyelights were back as both he and Dagger prepared red bone attacks.

“Okay guys. I’m just gonna -” The human had to duck the attacks before he could finish, eyes glinting. “I knew it.” He muttered, a small smirk.

He disappeared for a minute.

A plan was forming in Count’s head as he did nothing but cower in the corner next to the orange peels. Smells like citrus.

“the fuck aren’t you helping?” Cloak demanded quietly. “you said you owed us one!”

“i do.” Count said a little shaken. “but sometimes you gotta know when to hold your aces for the right moment.”

9:01:07 AM.

“what the fuck does that-”

The human was back. This time they were wearing a face shield and a chainmail glove. He also carried a very sturdy metal cage.

Without further preamble, the human reached into the box and grabbed Cloak, who for all he’s worth, bites, claws, growls and cusses the whole while. Any attacks thrown barely scratched the protective shields and he soon was stuck in the cage. 

Count had shivers at the sight of Cloak so powerless against the human.

Dagger went nearly the same way, but with demands instead of curses. He seemed on the verge of a panic attack.

“Huh." The human noted. "So Boss can still talk, just choose not to. Guess you’re not as broken as I thought.” he’s shoved into the cage. “Not that that’ll help you now.”

He left the room with the two, Cloak still spitting insults and profanity left and right. Add a few rhymes and he’d have a pretty decent rap carrier going.

9:02:10 AM.

It didn’t even take a minute for them to be captured and restrained.

It took a bit of Count’s will power to remain in the box rather than book it. If it came to it, he could theoretically fight his way out, but that would leave Cloak and Dagger in the hands of this prick and what he had planned for saturday. And he'd loose his ace.

So he stayed.

When the human came back, Sans gave him a Check.

A patient soul … with more LV than either Cloak or Dagger. From what Count could gather, that combo was bad news and this was not a good person. The worst case scenario popped into his head. Someone who’s willing to take their time with a kill. Who waits till the perfect moment to screw you over … the thought made him shudder.

He’d definitely bust those two out before saturday. He just needs to research this world more to make sure they had a place to go and to make sure he could make more concrete plans.

He had today and tomorrow to think and gather intel.

The rescue mission would henceforth be dubbed, Operation Cloak and Dagger - or OCD for short. 

… 

He’d make it work.

“It’s okay Sansy." The human "comforted." "The baddies are gone. Let’s get you set up for the display quickly, I'm late opening.”

Count just shrugged as a yellow ring with a barcode was tossed in with him. 

“Your chip must be busted, so keep that on so people don’t mistakenly try to purchase you. Won’t be able to get a replacement for a month.”

The human lifted the box as they moved to who knows where.

Lazy persona activated.

“sure. sell nice of you to chip in.”

Bastard gave a chuckle as he said. “Good to know those two didn’t rub off on you. I feel real sorry about leaving you with them for so long. They didn’t hurt you did they?”

Count didn’t like the look he had given when asked if they hurt him.

9:04:04 AM.

“naw. they may yellow lot, but it’s no chip off my shoulder.”

“That so?”

He looked like he was pretending he wasn’t disappointed. He was a good actor, Count would give him that. But Count was good with faces.

The guy must have hopped they did hurt him after learning about the ring. This guy was ... icky, putting it mildly.

The box came to a halt and the human placed a hand, palm up near Count. It took a second to get what he wanted, but with the lazy persona still in effect, Count kept his disgust and discomfort internal as he clambered on. It was warm as he was lowered outside the box.

In front of him was a big inlaid heated pool. At least, it was big to him right now. Couldn’t have been more than a few feet in either direction.

“The bath should still be hot from the freshies and you look like you could really use one. New clothes are over there.” He pointed to a mini cabinet. “Just throw out your old clothes over there.” He pointed to the trash. “I gotta go open. I’ll be back in a few minutes to get you into the display.” 

He left Count alone. That probably wasn't procedure, but Count wasn't complaining.

9:04:53 AM.

Rather than throw out his perfectly good clothes as asked, he put them into his inventory, along with his watch. He'd be fine without it for a while.

Not wanting to be caught without clothes when the guy returns, he was quick and efficient with getting clean and made for the new sets provided. They were all off-whites and greys, but at least some of them looked comfy. He picked a light grey track pant with white stripes down the side, a new white t, and the comfiest dark grey sweater he could find. A near neon yellow ring high set on his arm completes the ensemble. It was pretty bland if he was being honest. But at least he was comfy.

There were no shoes. Thinking back, Cloak didn’t wear shoes. Guess he would go without shoes.

By that time, the human came back, breaking him out of his thoughts about shoes, and he was fully dressed.

The human now had a pin claiming his name to be Kyle. Count thinks Bastard fit better.

“Alright, come on.” He held out his hand for Count again.

“Time to meet the other returnees.”

Chapter Text

Once again, Count had the unpleasant experience of being carried around by this bastard 'Kyle.'

It wasn’t ideal, putting himself in such a vulnerable spot for someone he knew was untrustworthy, but Count managed. His lazy persona had been honed after years of threat of harm and death to him and others. He wouldn’t let it fail him now.

In fresh clothes, he examined his surroundings very carefully, with eye sockets half lidded, as they traveled.

They appeared to be in a hallway that had a view of the front door and were behind the counter. There were four rooms. The office they had started in, the one with the tub, one with a plaque claiming it was a janitor closet and one unmarked, but sturdy looking, padlocked door. It was a pretty good guess which one the two were transferred too.

As they rounded the corner, Count had his first look at the shop properly from behind the counter.

Count's shock at the sight slipped through his mask for a second. Luckily the guy wasn’t focused on him.

The place was colorful and cheerful. It was similar to a daycare for children in appearance, with an open concept. They even had a padded area in the middle made of those colorful foam puzzle mats with several toys. Plenty of light - natural light - streaming in from a large front window giving view to a road and sidewalk with the occasional pedestrian - both human and monster - and cars. There were several different looking pamphlets scattered near the glass tank like enclosures.

But that wasn’t what had caught his attention the most.

There were so many skeletons … and all of them looked like a version of him or his brother. Only tiny.

Well, now he knew why they were called by types - they weren’t the only one with their appearances or personality. 

There was another pair of Edge and Boss bitties near the window. All the bitties were wearing similar clothes to what was found in the cabinet, the sharper ones sticking to the darker greys. There was also another version of himself napping in the sun … 7 to be accurate. Several Papyrus’ also appeared to be calling them lazy or tidying up, but there seemed to be a different number to the Sansys … were they not paired … for purchase? 

There were other types he didn’t recognize, including an energetic ‘Sansy’ with blue stars in his eyes.

Before he could break the lazy persona even further by staring longingly out the window, they moved to a display that was on the side wall, away from the window, but not too far. On inspection, the displays had place cards. The window was the “factory fresh” and the one he was now being set in was “returned.” 

In each of the tanks the floor was covered in wood shavings and structures covered in soft looking fabrics.

There was another section even further from the widow dubbed “special care.” It looked like it had multiple sections and more privacy for the bitties. Beyond that was the bathroom, to the right of the counter. Each display had pamphlets he'd definitely be looking at later.

The wire mesh lid of the returnee display was opened and he was placed in, catching the attention of the bitties already there - 9 of them … 10 with him now. He didn’t see any Edge or Bosses here, but there were a few sharp ones that were mostly keeping to themselves. 

“Here’s the new guy.” Bastard said. “Play nice.”

There was a bell as the front door opened and a purple bunny monster coming through.

He left to deal with the customer as Count was left to his own devices in a room of strangers. He surveyed the room.

A lounging Papyrus was half watching from his comfortable looking perch that resembled a cat tower. The feet, of what he was going to assume was a Sansy and another lazy Papyrus, were sticking out of a tunnel - so he could figure that Cloak wasn’t intending to be weird when he snuggled up and it was, indeed, normal here. Weird. 

There was a pair of lazy pointy Papyrus’ that were talking in hushed tones, feet dangling from a higher perch. One just shrugged and rolled over into a better nap position.

Two of the starry-eyed Sansy, two sharp versions of the Star-Sansy’s that somehow seem different in demeaner, and a regular Papyrus were beginning to approach. 

Count’s eyelights lingered on the Papyrus.

“s’up.” He settled for a neutral introduction that sounded like it came straight from a support group meeting. “i’m a sansy. you can call me count. it has been 46 seconds sense my last return.”

The sharp-lazy-pap that was still watching snorted, the other gave a thumbs up. The lazy-pap smirked with an eye roll and Count could almost hear a stifled chuckle from the Sansy in the tunnel - not asleep after all. Probably woke up when the lid opened but was to lazy to get up for real. That was going to be a trippy meeting.

Of the 5 standing in front of him, there were different reactions as well. Of the two sharp-star-sans, one looked down on him with a regal posture and distaste across his features, and the other rolled his eyes, hands on his hips. The two star-sans’ also had differing reactions - one pouted but the other tried to hide a smirk. Weird. 

The Papyrus tapped his foot with a sigh and an eye roll.

More than half played along and returned a “Hi Count” of varying degrees of enthusiasm.

“welp. if you need me, i’ll be napping.” 

With that, Count started to walk toward an unoccupied tunnel a little off from the rest. It didn’t take much seeing the 'other Sansys' to guess that was probably the best approach … and he could actually use that nap. He might be a bit jet lagged.

“SUCH A LAZY INTRODUCTION.” A sharp-star-sans said to the Papyrus.

“AGREED.” The Papyrus said. “BUT FROM A SANSY THAT WAS A PRETTY GOOD EFFORT!”

“THAT’S RIGHT! HE DID HIS BEST!” A star-sans was also on his side.

He walked away as they began to score his introduction and most of them went back to whatever it is bitties do. He didn’t acknowledge the three that continued to watch him enter the tunnel. 

Just before entering the tunnel, he managed to see the bunny monster walk out of the store, a Sansy on their shoulder. He looked a bit smug. The Edge in the factory fresh display flipped him off. Out the window he could scarcly see the sky reflected on the building across the roads window and reflective car. Soon he'd get his first view, but for now he would wait. What's a couple days more?

Bastard turned from the closing door and went back behind the counter to play on his phone.

Count entered the empty tunnel. Now that he was out of view, he took his watch out to check the time before taking his nap. He could do his research tonight. But right now? It’s been a long, weird day.

9:19:17 AM.

He fell asleep to the comforting sound of quiet ticking against his trauma marked sternum. 

***

Flowey cackled menacingly. Sans had been caught in it’s vines somehow. He couldn’t remember what he had been doing.

The vines were crushing him. He could feel his ribs cracking and grinding together.

“C-can’t breath … let g-go!”

The demon flower just cackled on. Suddenly, Sans saw his precious timepiece dangling in front of his face, just as broken as he was. As he was crushed the timepiece fell further into disrepair as the two were forced further apart. Or was it the distance that was tearing them apart? Sans couldn't concentrate.

If only he was closer - than he could protect it, try to fix it. Anything. He desperately needed to do something to help … but he was too far away.

“This all just a bad dream.” Flowey smiled. “And you’re NEVER WAKING UP!”

Behind Flowey and his vines that seemed to cover everything, he could see the outline of Papyrus. Sans could only reach out in desperation … but he would never reach him now - no matter the struggle he put out.

“wake up.” Papyrus said urgently, but softly. "you're having a nightmare."

***

He jolted awake to Papyrus shaking him awake. No - not his papyrus. Not even his bitty double. This was one of the lazy-paps. Count remembered where he was. He was in a display, on the Surface of an alternate reality, in a pet shop. That sounded really bonkers when put like that, but he knew it was true because of his surroundings and the one to wake him.

Weird. Normally he didn’t have nightmares that bad, but maybe it had to do with being carried in hands larger than he was tall. Usually halfway through he’d realize he was dreaming and practice his punning material. Dream Flowey is always as unimpressed as real Flowey.

“you good?” The lazy-pap asked.

“yup.” Count said with a lazy smile. “i can do this with my eyes closed.”

He got a pitying “nyeh heh” for his efforts.

“how long was i asleep?” He asked.

“over three hours. lunch is going to be served soon. figured you’d want to be awake for that.”

“you’d be right.” Count was indeed hungry. Part of an orange for breakfast wasn’t exactly gonna cut it.

Count stretched and stood in the tunnel. The lazy-pap stayed seated.

“... unless there was something else?” Count asked.

“just curious how you got a buyer already.” He looked pointedly to the yellow band.

Count blinked. “oh … no. my, uh, chip’s damaged so the bas- kyle put this on so i don’t get sold before i get a new one. parentally the closest time is a month out.”

If the lazy-pap noticed his almost slip up, he gave no indication.

“how’d it get damaged?” He seemed particularly curious about this question.

“eh.” Count shrugged. He didn’t know enough to come up with a plausible explanation for a chip failing. Yet.

“... alright. well if you remember, come find me.” He got up and began to walk away. “i’d be interested in watch you’ve gotta say.” 

Count put a hand to the timepiece that was tucked under his white shirt as the lazy-pap left.

11:37:12 AM.

Welp … hopefully this wouldn’t be an issue. Oh well - he’ll deal with things as they come. And now that he was up, he might as well mingle a little. He might learn something more.

He reviewed the things he’s learned so far to prepare himself. 

Bitties are pets despite being sentient and are typically chipped with their history. Chip possibly doubles as a tracker. Their magic is weaker than a monsters and they cuddle-up in their sleep - probably as an evolutionary trait because of the magic level difference (power in numbers) though that is speculation as of now. They can’t shortcut past physical barriers, but they can still summon small bone-attacks. Unclear weather or not Gaster Blasters are used by bitties as of yet. Bitty-type names can double as a form of address - so far the only type names known are Edge, Boss and Sansy, but there appear to be more. Furthermore, there is a thing called a Ring that is probably similar to fighting at a coliseum as he has heard humans once did - weather or not the Ring is legal is unknown for now.

It wasn’t much, but it would do for now. It would have to.

***

(Author's Note: Yup. Another note pointing out a possible cliffhanger placement partition point. In other news, Count sure managed to piece together a bit(ty) about bitties. You'd think he was writing a mental research paper XD)

***

Count exited the tunnel. In the more than 3 hours he had slept, not much had changed other than where everyone was.

The Sansy and other lazy-pap seemed to have moved their napping spot under a heated lamp. The sharp-lazy-pap had since joined them, and the lazy-pap he had just spoken to was on his way over. Count would not admit to how tempting a nap there sounded.

The two sharp-star-sans’, the Papyrus and a star-sans were switching between cleaning, talking and shooting disappointed looks to the napping skeletons. They were pretty much scattered about. He should really get to learning their type-names. 

But where were …?

“HELLO! I SEE YOU ARE UP?”

Count did not jump as the hand landed on his shoulder from behind. Nope. Did not happen.

“oh, uh. hey.” Count blinked at the image of two blue stars on a face much more similar to his own than Cloak.

“I AM THE MAGNIFICENT BABY BLUE!” He proclaimed, posing. “BUT YOU CAN CALL ME KID!”

“well, hi kid. heh.” Count broke eye contact to look around their enclosure again. “did i count wrong, or are we missing one?”

“MWEH.” Kid had attempted a huff at the pun but it came out half a laugh. “YOU DID NOT. THE PUP WAS CHOSEN FOR ADOPTION WHILE YOU LAZED ALONE. I MUST SAY YOU HAVE VERY IMPRESSIVE SOUL ENERGY LEVELS!”

Kids' hands always seemed to be moving, in contrast to how his eyes didn’t ever stray.

“... uh. thanks, i guess.” Why was soul energy levels being mentioned …? Could bitties sense that sort of thing? Interesting.

The baby blue looked at him for a second before continuing to chat.

“SO. I HEAR YOUR CHIP IS DAMAGED.”

Had he been eavesdropping …? 

“... yeah.”

Kid glanced around.

“AND WITH THAT SOUL ENERGY LEVEL YOU COULD LAST QUITE A WHILE ON YOUR OWN IF YOU WANTED. EVEN WITH A FEW OTHERS, IF I DARE SAY.”

“... perhaps.” 

“I ALSO HEAR YOU’RE IN POSSESSION OF SOMETHING … INTERESTING. IT WOULD BE A SHAME IF KYLE FOUND OUT. ESPECIALLY SINCE THE OTHER CLERK IS OUT SICK TODAY.”

Another glance around as Kid took another step closer. Count fought against his sudden impulse to step back.

In a much quieter voice, Kid asked, eyes hard.

“What are your true feelings about being nothing but a pet for the rest of your life.”

Oooh - so that’s how it is. This could be fun. Count relaxed with a smile - the same manic smile he used when he saw Flowey. His magic flared a bit in his eyelights.

“i will never be someone's 'pet' again.”

His expression was nearly back to it's masked façade in an instant, lest someone see something off. But he couldn’t wipe a stupid smirk from his face as if he had just thought of a good joke.

He didn’t owe this ‘Baby Blue’ anything, especially after he had blackmailed him. But if it was freedom he wanted, fair enough. They might not be trapped underground, but that didn’t make him any less a prisoner of his circumstances. But first he'd see how he reacted to this.

Kid blinked, possibly a bit startled. But then he returned a similar smile, before jumping in place like an innocent little, well, kid. 

“I KNEW YOU WOULD UNDERSTAND!” 

Count knew he saw something in those eyesockets beyond the obvious stars. The other Baby Blue didn't have that look. The look of desperation.

Kid looked over to the bitty pile where the lazy-pap had been discreetly watching and gave an excited nod. He received a thumbs up back.

“clever.” Count said. “you teamed up. one to gather info, the other to use the info and make a deal.”

“MWEH HEH HEH! THANK YOU! IT WAS MY PLAN THAT LED TO THIS MOMENT. USUALLY IT IS VERY HARD TO MOTIVATE A SANSY TO DO ANYTHING.”

“i think you’ll find i’m a little different from most sansys.”

“INDEED. AND YOU CAN APPLY THAT SAME LOGIC TO ME AND OTHER BABY BLUES.”

“and your pal?” Count nodded to the lazy-pap.

“A STANDARD LIL’ BRO. HIS REASONS ARE HIS OWN.”

“cool, cool. so, i hope you don’t mind, but i was already makin’ plans to skedaddle for night after next with my buds in the back room. but you’re free to come with.”

Kid blinked. “A SUPPOSED ‘VIOLENT TYPE’ I PRESUME?”

“you would be correct. how’d you know?”

“WHEN EVER KYLE IS UNSUPERVISED THOSE TYPES TEND TO … GO MISSING.” He looked over to where the bastard was still on his phone. “WE SHOULD TALK ABOUT THIS MORE PRIVATELY.” he gestured to the tunnel.

Count followed him in.

They both sit across from each other, Kid tapping his fingers on his kneecaps. 

“OKAY. SO. I’VE BEEN HERE FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS AND HAVE BEEN MONITORING THIS THROUGH GOSSIP AND EAVESDROPPING. FROM WHAT I’VE GATHERED, KYLE WORKS SEVERAL PART TIME JOBS. HE IS A CLOSETED ANTI-EDGE SUPPORTER. HE HAS BEEN USING HIS CONNECTIONS IN MANY DROP OFF CENTERS TO REROUTE BITTIES OF HIS CHOICE TO A CLINIC HE ALSO PART TIMES AT. EDGE, BOSS, CHIEF, AND MUTT TYPES USUALLY. SOMETIMES CAPS OR PUPS. FROM THERE … HE TENDS TO EUTHANIZE THE BITTIES. I’M UNCERTAIN OF HOW HUMANELY. HE IS NOT THE ONLY ONE IN ON IT, BUT I WAS UNABLE TO FIGURE OUT WHO SPECIFICALLY OTHER THAN A FEW FIRST NAMES.”

“hmm…” 

“WHAT IS IT?”

“heh. don’t worry about it.” Count smiled evilly. “just adding something to my to do list.”

Since it was clear Kid the kid already knew about it, Count checked his watch.

12:05:14 AM.

“WOWIE! ARE YOU CREATING EVIL PLANS OF REVENGE TOO!?”

“more like justice … it shouldn’t change my plans too drastically.” He stood and offered a hand to Kid who took it. “when’s lunch by the way?”

“OH! WE USUALLY EAT AT TWELVE. BUT KYLE IS ALSO USUALLY LATE.”

“ah. gotcha.” 

Kid led Count out of the tunnel.

“NOW IF YOU EXCUSE ME - I HAVE A LAZYBONES TO SCOLD! MWEH HEH HEH!”

He winked and ran off with a boundless energy toward the heat lamp where two Lil’ Bro and a Pup type - as he now knows they are called - napped.

But where was …?

“s’up.” Came from above.

Count turned around to see the Sansy lounging on top of the tunnel that Kid and him were just inside. What was with everyone listening to private conversations and approaching from behind? 

“you are.” Count said, caught a little off guard.

“heh. true.” 

There was a beat of silence as they both seemed to analyze the other.

It was like looking in a mirror. A weird, distorted mirror. It was a lot weirder than meeting Cloak or Kid who each seemed completely different from him. This Sansy was practically a version of him with less hate and despair. The closest to his past self he’d met so far. Though … at this point in time, Count could barely remember that past self. The Sansy even wore the same thing as him, down to the yellow arm band - though the dark grey and light grey of the sweater and sweatpants were swapped.

It was as freaky as he thought it would be. That is to say, a heck of a lot.

“so.” It was the Sansy to break the silence first. “jumpin’ ship are you?”

“... i guess.” Count shifted his weight to his other foot.

“heh. no need to look so worried pal.” He lazily winked. “not my place to judge what you do or don’t do.”

“uh. thanks.” 

The Sansy slide down the side of the tunnel, landing easily on his feet, hands in pockets as he now lazily leaned against the side of the tunnel. His eye sockets were still half lidded.

“however … there is still something i would like to say.” He nodded back to the tunnel.

Was this the tunnel of secret meetings or what? And each time it has proven very unreliable against the protection of eavesdroppers. This was, what …? The third conversation in - he stopped himself from checking his watch - about 40 minutes since waking up?

He sighed and went back into the tunnel. Sansy followed. 

The two looked at each other before the Sansy began.

“... is it really so bad to be a pet? … three meals a day, friends, shelter, and heh, unlimited naps. it may take a couple tries for the right home, but it can be worth it.”

Count shrugged again. Honestly didn’t sound too bad, but it's not something he’d want. Besides, he had more than himself to think about. He wanted Papyrus to be happy too. If he helped a few other people along the way, that was his choice.

“it’s, uh.” Count tried to answer, looking at the floor. “less about not wanting to be a pet, and more i already have someone i need to get back too. a place where i have friends that need my help.” Counts thumb traced the mostly healed radius crack absently as he attempted to explain how he really felt. “i need to live in a way that gives me control over who i am, and who i want to be. i want to be someone i can live with. all i’ve been for the longest time is just a toy to manipulate and break, over and over … what ever i want to do with my life, i want it be my choice - and what i want is to see where hope will take me for once … i want to forge a better fate myself and family. i am determined to forge a better fate.”

There was silence for a moment before the Sansy broke it with a snort.

“that was, heh, some speech. you wouldn’t happen to have practiced it? or was that some king of forgery.”

“heh. no. just claying what's on my mind.”

“well … it’s clear i’m not going to persuade you if you’ve got people waiting. i don’t know what happened, and i don’t need to know. but let me give you some advice … it’s a big world out there for a little guy like us. freedom can come at a cost.” He walked to the exit. Facing outward, he paused. “do what you need to do, but don’t lose yourself or your reasons.”

And he was gone. From the way he spoke, he had to have had some experience in the matter. 

12:20:25 AM.

Count left the tunnel. Again. Figuring why not he turned around. Only to discover an eavesdropping skeleton. Again. 

This time it was the remaining Pup leaning in the shadow of the tunnel exterior. But Pup broke the pattern and Count wasn’t brought into another heart to heart, nor did he give his opinion. Pup walked away without more than a respectful nod and made his way to the two chatting Lil’ Bro’s.

Count had a pretty good idea what bitties did in their down time now - eavesdrop and gossip for one.

Climbing one of the lower cat-tree-things levels, Count waited for lunch as he people watched. Everyone seemed to be awake and waiting for lunch now. He was pretty hungry by now, too. Soon enough, the bastard behind the counter felt the many hungry eyes on him as he must finally remember he needs to feed them 20 minutes ago.

Bastard started with the factory fresh station. 

Count observed, to his displeasure, that each plate was being served with head pats.

Oh hell naw.

Chapter Text

Sure, Count was hungry. But did he really need to be pet to receive grub? If he wanted to fit in he would have to, wouldn’t he? With a dejected sigh resigned himself to his fate.

There were worse things. Things he had seen - had done, even.

The food set up was simple enough from what he could observe of the Factory Fresh section. The store was closed during the time and the roof of the enclosure was opened in two places. Kyle aka Bastard inserted a mesh staircase in each opening and everyone formed a line at one. He moved with very little enthusiasm.

Now that it was set up, a bitty would go up the stairs, get scanned, endure a head pat for about 3 seconds, receive a bowl of food and retreat back into the enclosure through the other opening. Rinse and repeat.

Most of them didn’t seem to mind the contact - even seemed to enjoy it. But for Count it just seemed a little … demeaning. And hella weird. 

Well, when in Rome, do as the Romans do, or so the saying goes.

When the Boss and Edge went for their turn, Count tensed. He wasn’t surprised that Bastard just barely acknowledged them … maybe because they were new he would bring too much suspicion in getting rid of them.

The boss gave a huff and returned to the enclosure after his turn. His head pat was notably shorter, but not by much. If one didn’t know better they wouldn’t have seen it as on purpose.

The Edge received noticeably less attention, even compared to the Boss. No way you could call that a mistake. Bastard barely even brushed a finger over his skull before going to fill a bowl. This seemed to make the Edge mad.

“oi asshole.” The Edge snarled. “‘s company policy to maintain three seconds of contact for feeding time ya fuckin’ skimper. didn’t get breakfast neither dickwad.”

“Sorry, but you’ve had your contact.” Bastard said condescendingly. “I’m very sure it was the full three seconds.”

“you fucking -”

A Sansy tapped the Edge in the shoulder. He was the next in line.

“what!?” The Edge practically growled in irritation.

The Sansy leaned in and said something privately.

With an irate "tch," the Edge grabbed his meal and stomped off back to the enclosure.

Things went by quickly after that. and it wasn't long before it was the Return display's turn.

Count climbed down from his perch and joined the line behind a Baby Blue with a repressed sigh. He didn’t get why it was a company policy to give head pats, but he would just have to knuckle down until the escape.

“seems like he’s at it again.”

“hmm?” 

Behind him in line was the remaining sharp-lazy-pap - the Pup.

“oh.” Count blinked. “‘sup pup.”

“eh. yeh can call me pocky.” 

“like … the food pocky?”

“ayup.” He paused, eyes roaming the other chatting bitties. “i saw you watching that edgy confutation by the freshies. guess you know about kyles little secret.”

“yeah…” This could be a good point to get information. “what’s the deal with the three second rule again?”

The Pup - Pocky narrowed his eyes at him in thought for a second before answering.

“well, it’s borderline bitty abuse for one." He answered factually. "if a bitty goes too long without contact from someone with a sustainable soul energy level, be it animal, monster or human, they start to dust. but you would know that already … right?”

He’s suspicious - abort, abort!  Why did they all have to be so clever? This would be so much easier with resets … he can’t believe he just had that thought. Bad Count.

“y-yeah. of course i knew that.”

But … bitties would dust without enough contact? That put some things into perspective - why Kid mentioned his soul energy level for one … and why so many are content to be pets rather than escape.

Did this mean Kid had been waiting for a bitty with a high enough soul energy level? That didn’t seem probable. Perhaps he had wanted a big enough group to survive together longer? A power in numbers thing? But that still didn’t solve the problem of lack of contact.

The conversation with Pocky trailed off as they moved forward in the line.

Lost in thought, Count moved without thought as a shadow descended on him.

He dodged.

The bitty center slowly went quiet as what he just did caught up with his brain.

“uuuuh … sike?” Smooth. Real smooth. 

Count was internally freaking out … as well as sweating a little, so maybe not perfectly internal. 

If - If he was found out now, he wouldn’t be prepared enough. He needed research, planning, time - he needed to know the lay of the land. At this rate he wouldn’t be able to save Cloak, Dagger … get back to Papyrus. 

He wouldn’t be able to save anyone.

Cover story. He needed a cover story and he needed it fast and - he had an idea.

“sorry.” Count said, rubbing his neck doing his best to look more bashful than fearful. It was probably a half success. “but uh … thought you were some else for a second.”

True, in a manner, as best lies are. Flowey did like to ambush and dash just to mess with him.

Had it really become such a habit to dodge first, look later? His low hp was only part of it at this point. At least he hadn't followed up with an attack, like say, a gaster blaster to the face - hilarious as that image was and however deserving the target. Teeny skeleton releasing a giant beam of potential death? Pretty funny imagery.

"O … k?"

Bastard looked confused. Considering he was an abuser himself, that just didn’t seem allowed. As it was, Bastard just shrugged off the potential hint to past abuse and went for the pet again. Asshole.

Count sighed. This guy really was negligent to his duties. Which was working out in Counts favor for the moment, but he can't see how he got away with it.

Count was going to make things very inconvenient for the guy very soon. He'd make sure of it.

This time as the hand descended, Count didn't dodge.

Bastards hand was unusually warm like before. Then again, Count only knew human biology from books and they were no doubt out of date. Some book called Grey's Anatomy, and others he couldn't recall. 

It was a long, three seconds that ticked by, and Count was displeased with each of them. The longer the hand was there the more Count thought he sensed … something? Like magic but different …? It had a lower, if choppier hum - not quite at LV frequency, but similar in a way.

It felt like looking into the bottomless pits of Waterfall. Something unseen and waiting - like a tense silence.

It kind of had a soothing quality he couldn't quite put his phalange on … not something he'd ever equate to the person attached to the strange phenomenon.

Finally the contact ended and he received his food. He repressed a shudder. It looked like some kind of brown puree and smelled like tacos.

He descended back into the enclosure deep in thought about the weird non-magic he sensed. 

Suddenly it was as if something clicked and he could vaguely feel that energy close by, and others like it, but weaker and unique. Thinking more deeply on it and he could almost equate a number to it. He blinked and the new form of feedback went away. Concentrating on it brought it back again.

Was that … soul energy levels??? But that’s impossible. Count’s not a bitty, he’s just … shrunk … right? 

He almost missed his next step.

What if instead of just shrinking him … the machine had modified his magical components to better 'fit' into the new dimension by choosing the closest thing to himself - that form being a Sansy bitty? And because energy can't be created or destroyed his magic abilities and attacks stayed the same? Or something???

Count is regretting messing with some of that mystery code.

Experimentally he compared his own energy to other bitties and found they were … similar? 

… What??? Didn’t Kid say it was impressive? 

Each number seemed to be paired with some form of 'feel' to the bitty, like looking at who they were as a base - it felt invasive, so Count decided to block out the feedback. It was a bit much to take in at the moment.

Welp. He’d have to do some tests when he got equipment. Not that he wasn’t going to before, but a change in size would be a lot easier to deal with than a change of whatever the hell this is. Probably.

Later though … this was a later problem. So he shoved it to the back of his mind with the other items on his impressive to do list.

For now, he’d look for either Kid or Lil' Bro and just eat his baby food.

He spotted Lil' Bro and began to approach.

“hey … about what we were talking about before -”

The Lil' Bro held up a hand, smirking but nervous. He was trying not to make eye contact. He basically exuded socially awkward.

“heh. wrong guy. the lil’ bro you’re looking for is in the tunnel. i’m hoods.” 

“oh, uh … thanks.” Count said embarrassed. How do bitties even tell each other apart? … oh, probably the soul energy reading thing. Oops. Guess he'd have to practice that after all.

“no prob." Hoods replied. "raspberry has that problem too.”

So some bitties do have trouble with that? Hopefully it wasn't that rare.

“raspberry?” Count asked.

“the cap bitty.” Hoods explained unhelpfully. “he can’t distinguish soul energy either. hey. that’s him over there.” Hoods nodded nervously behind Count.

Pocky appeared to be approaching with whom Count assumed was Raspberry. A Cap was apparently the sharp-star-sansy type with purple eyes. It was good to have names - soon he would collect them all. Not that he’d be staying.

“AH! HELLO PUNZ.” Raspberry smirked to Count, causing Pocky and Hoods to smirk also. “PLEASE TALK SOME SENSE INTO THESE -”

“this is count.” Hoods interrupted.

Raspberry blinked at being interrupted. He blushed and scowled (pouted).

“ENOUGH OF YOUR TOMFOOLERY HOODS. I -”

“i’m candy though.” Hoods said.

“he’s messing with you.” Pocky said. “he’s hoods.”

“ARRRGH! ENOUGH! PUNZ - TELL THIS IDIO-”

“i’m really count. he didn’t lie about that part.” Count said, interrupting ‘the word.’ “punz the other sansy i take it?”

“yup.” Hoods confirmed, poking at his food as Raspberry fumed. “didn’t introduce himself when you two had your chat?”

“nope.” 

“NOT ANOTHER IMBECILE.” Raspberry pinched the bridge of his nasal cavity. 

“i’m … sorry?” Count said, raising a brow bone. His Ph.d's felt offended - he could feel them calling out for petty revenge.

“AS YOU SHOULD BE.” He was clearly annoyed with being messed with.

“in that case, i take it back.” Count said, deciding to mess with him more. “not sorry at all.”

The Cap exploded with indignation. Everyone basically ignored the purple Raspberry ranting about respect - either Raspberry didn’t notice or just liked the sound of his own voice when Hoods spoke up.

“since punz didn’t tell you his name it means you’re part of the escape faction.” Said Hoods, explaining. “must’ve been pretty adamant about it too if he gave up convincing you so soon.”

“he has a good reason.” Pocky said absently while eating.

“course you’d know, mr. eavesdropper number three.” Count said.

Pocky shrugged.

“but wait.” Count said piecing things together. “is the escape common knowledge then?” 

“among this display?” Hoods elaborated. “pretty much.”

“huh.” Was all he added, taking a bite of his own food. "this needs ketchup." He added absently.

"you mean bbq sauce."

"you mean honey."

"NO IT DOESN'T!"

They all said at once. Raspberry even interrupted himself mid rant.

Count snorted, even as he raised a brow bone. This was just surreal at this point. They may look like him and his brother, but they were characters unto themselves.

Raspberry sighed and pinched between his sockets as he continued to explain as if there were no interruption. 

“THE RETURN DISPLAY IS CURRENTLY SPLIT BETWEEN THREE FACTIONS. ESCAPE, REHOME OR NEUTRAL.”

“who’s, uh … winning?” Count asked.

“CURRENTLY REHOME, THE CLEARLY SUPERIOR CHOICE, IS IN THE LEAD WITH SIX. FIVE NOW THAT THE OTHER PUP HAS BEEN ADOPTED.”

Pocky quickly hid a frown as his pocketed hands clenched. Clearly those two had had history.

“FOR ESCAPE THERE WAS TWO. NOW THREE WITH YOU.”

“just a reminder to change that to four.” Pocky said. 

Hoods looked surprised. Raspberry sighed aggressively again.

"NO YOU AREN'T. WE'RE GOING TO FIND PUNZ AND HAVE HIM SET YOU STRAIGHT. OR AT THE VERY LEAST BACK TO NEUTRAL."

Pocky shrugged. “can’t remain neutral forever. and the odds of a successful escape went up recently.”

“really? why?” Count asked, blanking.

Pocky squinted at him again. “just some dingus that showed up recently saying he had a plan.”

“oh.” Count said, then got it. “oooh. right. got’cha.”

Pocky facepalmed. He must think Counts an idiot. Count winced internally at the word.

“i guess that leaves just one neutral now …” Hoods said, shoulders slumping. “me.”

Tapping his foot, arms on his hips and looking between Pocky and Count Raspberry said. “WHAT IN THE BABY BLUE BLAZES ARE YOU ON ABOUT PUP? WHAT PLAN? I THOUGHT ALL THEY DO WAS DAY DREAM. TO SCARED TO ACTUALLY MAKE A MOVE.”

“eh. believe it or not.” Count said, setting down his empty dish. “i’m going to leave the night after next. all are welcome, but no pressure. you have until then to decide.”

Count briefly wonders how Papyrus would feel about bringing home a bunch of little skeletons that look like them. Probably ecstatic for the sleepover potential - he’s cool like that. And it’s not like a few extra hands would hurt when trying to build the machine … especially given the circumstances. Actually, scratch that. He didn't trust them to be able to read blueprints - let alone ones in wingding. They could be … moral support he supposed. Snack fetchers.

But now that he knows about their soul energy deficiency thing, it would practically be murder not to take them home if they were going to escape. They seemed like good monsters to him - weird, but good.

"YES. ALRIGHT. BUT WHAT SPECIFICALLY WERE YOU PLANNING?”

“aw. don’ trust little old me?” Count said showing his palms in the ‘I have nothing to hide’ gesture.

“NOT EVEN HALF AS FAR AS I CAN THROW YOU.”

“fair.” Count shrugged, placing his hands back in his pockets. “but it’s a pretty simple plan actually. it’d be funnier as a surprise.”

“NOT GOOD ENOUGH!” Raspberry stomped. “WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO ABOUT THE GLASS?”

“i have a way around that.”

“THEN WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO IF YOU ARE SEEN?”

“i have a way through that.”

“AND WHERE DO YOU SUGGEST YOU GO???”

“i’ll figure it out. no prob.”

“AND WHAT ABOUT THE TRACKERS???”

“magnets.” 

“AND - WAIT. WHAT?” Raspberry sputtered at the actual answer. It was kinda funny.

Count had given it some thought. Regardless of the machine, a strong enough magnet can render it useless in a matter of moments. Too bad he only thought of it five minutes after the Lil’ Bro asked. The next problem would be actually finding one strong enough.

“magnets.” Count repeated.

“... HOW CERTAIN ARE YOU IT WORKS?”

Count flicked the armband he was wearing and lied truthfully.

“i’m not exactly wearing this cause i was purchased. though it does depend on the magnet.”

Raspberry was quiet a moment. Count took the time to continue.

“you see, i do have a plan.” Count smirked. “it’s just safer to keep the details vague in case we’ve got a whistleblower - i don’t trust that human as far as you can throw him.”

Count could probably throw him pretty far if he wanted. The Cap, less so.

Bastard was just feeding the bitty in the Special Care display, blissfully unaware of the blatant chat of escape. The bitty looked rough - a giant hole in his skull and a bloated red eyelight. He appeared to be the only one in there.

Special Care indeed.

“AND WHAT OF FOOD?" Raspberry continued his questioning. "HOW FAR AHEAD DOES YOUR ‘PLAN’ ACCOUNT?”

“you’d be surprised what’s edible given enough magic. ever hear about rock candy?”

***

(Authors Note: actual note for once - Rock Candy is a cut item in Undertale that heals 1 hp. the flavor text is a face palmer)

***

Raspberry changed his question yet again.

“AND WHAT ABOUT SOUL ENERGY? WHERE DO YOU SUPPOSE WE - YOU ACQUIRE THAT? UNLESS YOUR HIDING SOME IN YOUR INVENTORY, I DOUBT YOU CAN ACCOUNT FOR THAT.”

Pocky snorted and smirked … knowingly? Hoods awkwardly avoided eye contact.

Count shrugged and put on an easy smile. “sorry. that tid-bit’s only for the escapees to know.” He turned to Pocky. “what say you/me head over to our little faction buddies, eh?”

“sounds like a plan.” He winked, stacking his bowl on top of Counts.

The two turned and walked away - leaving the bowls.

“I - WE WERE - YOU CAN’T JUST LEAVE YOUR DISHES LIKE THIS! IT'S UNACCEPTABLE!”

“you’re right. thanks for taking care of that for us.” Count tossed back, leaving a screeching bitty and an uncomfortable if amused Hoods.

They arrived at the tunnel at the same time as the Papyrus and Baby Blue who were holding their empty dishes.

“HELLO! WE’RE COLLECTING BOWLS.” The Baby Blue said.

“left ours with rasp.” Count said.

Pocky shrugged and nodded.

Out of the tunnel came another Baby Blue carrying two bowls - Kid.

“OH - HELLO FRIENDS! WOWIE. THIS TUNNEL SURE IS POPULAR TODAY!”

“sup kid.” Count said as a way of greeting.

“HELLO COUNT! I AM GLAD YOU COULD MAKE IT.”

The Papyrus asked, seeing the dishes. “IS THERE ANYWAY WE COULD PERSUADE YOU TO ALLOW OUR ASSISTANCE IN DISH DEPOSITING DUTIES?” 

Kid balanced the bowls in one hand and thought about it while stroking his chin.

“HMM. PERHAPS TODAY I SHALL TAKE YOU UP ON THAT FINE OFFER HAPPY. AS COUNT AND I HAVE MUCH TO DISCUSS!”

So the Papyrus was named Happy. That seemed accurate with how he smiled at the chance to help. Count missed his Papyrus.

“WOWIE!” The Baby Blue said, bouncing excitedly. “I HOPE YOU HAVE FUN! IF YOU WANT TO JOIN US LATER FOR A GAME, YOU KNOW WHERE TO FIND US!” Now with more dishes, he ran off to where Pocky and Count had just left with an energetic mweh heh heh.

Happy saluted. “UNTIL NEXT WE MEET!” He turned and ran after the Baby Blue sporting his own iconic laugh. “COMET! WAIT FOR ME!”

Comet the Baby Blue was naught but a blur as he ran across the room. Comet indeed.

Count noticed that the Sansy - Punz - was already in the group they had just left. The red-eyed-cap had also joined the group.

“HELLO POCKY!” Kid finally greeted. “WILL YOU BE JOINING US TODAY?

“ayup.” Pocky said. “nothing escapes you. as of today, you can count me in.”

Count snorted. Kid smirked. An amused nyeh could be heard from the tunnel.

They entered with the light air of jokes shared between friends.

Cloak and Dagger would be okay for now.

Chapter Text

Cloak and Dagger were not fine.

They were stressed, alone and cramped … and that human hadn’t returned to feed them. Not that they knew what time it was in the semi-dark room.

But they would manage. They had before.

Dagger paced the length of the cage repeatedly, as he fiddled with his cardigan. His steps moved as if with a purpose they did not have. He had been walking for what felt like hours in the dim room. His long legs made short work of the cramped area. Over and over steps had rung out in the small metal room.

“... you should take a seat. all this stressing yourself out isn’t going to do any good.”

Dagger stopped in front of the bars and gripped them tight. They had been put into adjacent cages.

“LIKE YOU’RE ONE TO LECTURE ME ABOUT STRESS!” He snapped at Cloak.

Cloak had been alternating between grinding his claws to near nubs on the metal floor and vacantly staring at the alternate wall.

“... touché. doesn’t mean i’m wrong.”

“SIGH … I - YES. I SUPPOSE THAT IS ACCURATE."

He looked away. Perhaps the stress was getting to him a little. Just a little.

Dagger took a few more moments to glare between the bars at the room beyond. This was clearly meant to be a medical station for bitties. It was well maintained and stocked with necessities. It even looked like it had been used recently. 

And yet, now it was being used as a holding cell.

Dagger pulled his hands from the bars and sat down next to Cloak. Well, with his back to the bars separating them that is.

Cloak had begun absently clawing the ground again. The sound was grating, and one of the few things they could hear in the room.

“... we’re not getting outta this so easily … eh, boss.”

Dagger scowled at the address, but didn’t mention it. 

“PERHAPS.”

Cloak slammed a fist into the cold ground.

“if only that sansy had fought with us we might have slipped by the human! he said he owed us!”

“AND THEN WHAT?” Dagger pointed out. “THE DOOR WAS CLOSED. EVEN IF WE HAD SOMEHOW MADE IT OUT, THEN WHAT? YOU DO REMEMBER WHAT THE SANSY HAD SAID BEFORE WE WERE PLACED IN HERE RIGHT?”

“... something about holding aces.”

“PRECISELY. AND HE CLAIMS TO OWE US. I BELIEVE HE HAS A PLAN TO EXTRACT US FROM OUR PREDICAMENT.”

“... how can you just believe the shrimp will come back? he probably bolted it himself with that weird shortcut of his. why else are we even still here?”

“BECAUSE IF I DID NOT BELIEVE IT, THEN SURLY … WE ARE ALREADY DEAD.” 

***

Count looked back before entering the tunnel.

Out of the corner of his eye sockets, Count could see Bastard returning to the Factory Fresh display to collect dishes. Probably to put them into a sink and leave for what ever employees that actually do the work right here.

The store was still closed but that wasn’t likely going to last long.

He turned and followed as Kid led them into the tunnel. Pocky stayed back at the tunnel entry and sat with his back mostly to the group. He was still close enough to contribute to conversation, but also far enough he could keep an eye out for eavesdroppers.

That was good. Finally a private conversation … for the four of them.

Four puny skeletons in a tunnel. This’ll be fine.

The Lil’ Bro - Candy, Count remembers - was casually lounging further in the tunnel with his hands behind his head. He had an easy smile plastered on his face and mirth in his sockets.

“glad you could make it on time.” Candy said as they made their way into the tunnel. No doubt he was referring to the watch. Again.

At the mention of time, Count felt compelled to give his watch a peak even though Pocky didn’t know about it yet ... no - you know what? Why not. He wasn’t exactly doing a good job of blending in with him anyway. As long as Bastard didn’t find out, then it was fine. It’s not like it mattered too much. 

Nothing really mattered except his goal … maybe if he kept telling himself that he wouldn’t get to sidetracked.

12:53:12 PM.

The relief was immediate and immense.

“count on it.” Count said, winking. He places the timepiece in plain view on his sternum. He slid to a seated position across from Candy, hands going to rest in his pockets.

“i just used that.” Pocky muttered, rolling his eye lights. He gave the time piece a curious glance but didn’t say anything.

Count smirked. “sayin’ it doesn’t count? ”

Pocky face palmed. Kid and Candy laughed. 

“walked right into that one.” Pocky smirked.

“you saying you should have left it then?” Candy asked.

Everyone was chuckling at this point - Kid even letting out a suppressed “MWEH HEH!” despite trying to prevent it, which in turn had Candy smirking and Pocky letting out a large “nyeh heh!” of his own.

Counts cheek bones were hurting from smiling … It had been too long since he genuinely had a good laugh in such a relaxing environment just slinging puns. Even Grillby’s had lost some of it’s charm when he already knew the reactions to his jokes. The food and ketchup would always be phenomenal but … it was nice to have some fresh content and company. 

A full stomach and this could easily be called a perfect hangout. But, eh. This was a close second. Counts eye sockets half lidded with a comfortable contentment.

So even though he was emotionally exhausted and everything was kind of muted in that way … this wasn’t so bad.

12:53:58 PM.

While messing with the flower was its own kind of fun, Count could honestly say he preferred this kind of environment.

Firsts were always a little tense. Even when he knew they wouldn’t stick. But this … this would stick. These laughs would stay.

This was real.

Slowly it was sinking in just how free he was in this new universe - despite the literal cage. This was the most alive he had felt in years. It was even a little overwhelming.

He had to stop himself from tearing up. Cloak would have made fun of him for being mushy. 

“TSK.” Kid said rolling his starry eyes, trying to regain some semblance of order. But it seemed like he couldn’t help throw in a pun or two himself. “WHILE YOU HAVE YOUR PUN, I REMIND YOU WE HAVE A NUMBER OF THINGS TO DISCUSS.”

“no kidding ?” Pocky asked, finally getting a pun in himself. A lazy grin plastered on his face as he continued to lean against the tunnel opening. Well, everyone was grinning at this point, but whatever.

“MWEH HEH HEH! WHY, RECRUITMENT OF COURSE!” Kid smiled, hands gesturing wildly. “NOW THAT WE HAVE COUNT WE HAVE A MUCH MORE SOLID ARGUMENT. IT’S NOT EVERYDAY YOU MEET A BITTY STRONG ENOUGH TO CONCEAL STATS!”

“do what you want.” Count winked up at him. “i said ‘all were welcome.’ not that i would be bothered to try to convince anyone.”

He'd had enough introductions for now. All the excitement - all this new … it was tiring him out. Besides, if things went wrong he could just deal with it.

“thought you said that was only for the escapees to know when raspberry asked.” Pocky said, raising a brow bone.

Count shrugged more exaggeratedly. 

“the guy was annoying me with all his questions.” Count admitted. “although … he did have a few good points. like food for one. especially food.”

Counts' high metabolism was probably going to play a big part. He may have jokingly mentioned Rock Candy, but if one was going to make those themself … it was kind of counterproductive in filling magic stores and one of the reasons they were so rare in the Underground. Let alone the fact they’re so heavy only one fits in an inventory at a time. Everyone just kinda saw them as pointless and now a lot of people don't even know the recipe.

However, Count knew making them was a great way to practice magic stamina … it had been a long time since he put any effort into that sort of thing though. 

Pocky gave a discrete signal to wait. 

There was a clunking noise from the lid of the enclosure. Bastard was probably gathering dishes from this display now. They could vaguely hear Comet and Happy talking excitedly to Bastard about gathering the dishes. Not long after and the sound of the enclosure shutting and farewells could be heard.

Pocky leaned out a little to keep track of the human as he left before relaxing back to his post.

12:54:45 PM.

“so anyway. tell them what you want.” Count said with yet another shrug. “though i am curious about your reasons for wanting to escape so bad. if i didn’t have someplace to be, i’d be tempted.”

There was a pause in conversation as they considered weather or not to share their reasons. 

It was Kid who spoke up first. 

He bunched up his hands into his white t-shirt in an attempt to still them. He seemed entirely unsure if he should share as he wouldn’t make eye contact - especially with Pocky for some reason. Very different from his casual staring Count noted. 

Even still, he began with a question.

“... DO YOU KNOW ABOUT PRINTING ERRORS?”

Pocky tensed.

“oh wow.” Candy said, surprise directed at Kid. “you’re really going to tell them.”

“IT’S IMPORTANT!” Kid shouted, arms flailing as he pouted.

“chill, chill.” Candy said, giving a careless wave. “just surprised is all.”

“what’s a printing error?” Count was pretty sure he wasn’t talking about paper with the way he had said it. For some reason he had an ominous feeling about this. 

Kid gave Count a look before he sighed and explained. 

“A ‘PRINTING ERROR’ IS WHEN THERE IS A MISTAKE IN THE BITTY MANUFACTURING PROCESS RESULTING IN A BITTY THAT DOESN’T MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE COMPANY APPROVED TYPES. MOST ARE DUSTED BEFORE THEY MAKE IT OUT OF THE FACTORY SO MOSTLY PEOPLE BELIEVE IT TO BE RUMOR.” 

What the hell ...? 

Count was already perturbed at the thought of creating artificial life solely to be pets. Then to top it off Kid throws in the added fact that the companies off them immediately when they don’t meet the brand ideal …? This universe was just … he couldn’t find the words. He was definitely scratching this one off ‘New New Home’ material.

Guess that explained why the other display was called Factory Fresh. They were being literal. 

It also explained why the types were a consistent thing … or why bitties needed contact to live. A possible design feature to prevent runners.

Count wanted to shudder. 

Oh wait … didn’t Count say earlier that ‘he wasn’t like other sansy’s’ to Kid after he said he didn’t want to be a pet? So that’s what that look was about when he said he didn’t know about printing errors - he had already inadvertently admitted to being one. 

Oops.

Meanwhile, Pocky gave a short nod at the explanation like this was the expected answer, though he was scowling. He may know the answer - but that didn’t mean he liked it. His attention seemed to be more on the conversation than watching for eavesdroppers at this point.

“... so that’s why you like puns?” Count said after the large pause. “because you're a printing error?”

Kid nodded with a sad smile. “RARE AS IT IS, A FEW ERRORS STILL MAKE IT THROUGH. IF WE'RE FOUND WE'RE USUALLY DUSTED OR SOLD ON THE BLACK MARKET TO FIGHT IN THE RING. I’D LIKE TO AVOID EITHER OF THOSE OUTCOMES. I DID SOME RESEARCH INTO IT AFTER - UH - ANYWAY. I BELIEVE MY NON-TYPE IS A *AHEM* Yendereberry *AHEM*” He mumbled the name.

“a … what?” Count said, blinking.

“A Yendreberry, okay!?” He whisper-yelled.

Count thinks he remembers Alphys mention something sounding similar a few years ago on one of their anime nights … it had been such a long time since Count thought about that. Wasn't a yandere someone that started out nice but when they got attached would become insanely possessive? Emphasis on the insane?

“... don’t yendreberrys have a rep of dusting most of their family?” Pocky said, eye sockets narrowing.

“WELL, UH, Y-YES.” Kid said, shoulders tensing and turning away.

He looked to be bracing to get hit. Pocky wasn’t discouraging the reaction with the look he was giving. 

“care ta tell me if that applies to you?” His eyelight burned orange.

Kid looked at Pocky wide eyed with tears threatening to form.

“okay. let’s all just cool it.” Candy said, standing between them hands up. “kid’s fine as long as no one disses his first owner - that’s a bad time-” “I SAID I WAS SORRY!” “-also how i found out about his situation. think about it, pup. he’s been here for months and he hasn’t done anything drastic. i’ve been keeping an eye socket on him.”

Count pondered this, even as the tension still existed.

So that’s likely where the LV came from. Despite the teary reaction, something had happened, Count knew. Count had kind of thought it was another Ring thing. But apparently it was looking to be more like a full on murder thing. But it was impossible to tell without directly asking. Though Kid looked genuinely regretful when Pocky mentioned dusting family’s … 

… the weed also pretended to be remorseful when it suited it.

12:57:42 AM.

Count would have to keep an eye socket on him until he knew those tears weren’t part of an act. Kid had already shown himself capable of blackmail and lying. though his acting could use work if he was genuinely trying to hide the fact he liked puns … unless that was just another layer to the act.

Count would definitely have to tweak the machine settings if this was a ‘low LV’ world. Or maybe he was just exceedingly unlucky. Probably unlucky. Heck, go for both.

… though technically everyone - excluding Bastard - did fit into the range he had calculated for.

Count was brought back to the tone of voice that was used.

“don’t diss his old owner ya say.” Pocky looked down on Kid, even though he was still seated a distance away. “why?” He smirked cruelly. “they probably got rid of him when they grew bored of him - just like the rest of us.”

“well shi-” Candy had to struggle to hold Kid back as he lunged for Pocky who was now pointing a sharpened blue bone in his direction - had Candy not held Kid back he might have been impaled by his own momentum. Kid seemed determined to win with just his physical capabilities.

Well that escalated, Count thought, eye sockets blank. Hopefully the attack had a low ATK. That is to say, a low Ability To Kill.

“YOU TAKE THAT BACK! ” Kid practically screeched. His once purely blue stars now half red in a sort of gradient. “THEY WOULD NEVER DO THAT - YOU DON’T KNOW THEM! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE! YOU-”

“e n o u g h.”

***

(Authors Note: Ooooh~ sweat cliffhanger potential~ (yes we're still doing this. why not))

***

Count was done with all this bullshit. He was tired and hungry - he didn’t need to deal with this immature fighting. Surprisingly enough, they all paused - froze more accurately. 

He probably used a little more magic pressure than was needed but he didn’t really give a damn. At the very least he kept it to the tunnel area rather than flooding the whole store.

“you’re acting like children.” He growled, surprising himself. “grow up and talk, why don’t you?”

They had the decency to look ashamed. They settled back to where they were originally. Pocky dismissed the attack with a sigh and scowl and looked out the tunnel.

Count plastered on a smile and leaned back. He ignored the fact that he growled at them and that skeleton monsters don’t growl. Not like that. Hearing it from Cloak had been one thing and he had been too freaked out at the time to really think about it. Cloak had just been scooped up by The Glove after all. Course he was going to make sounds of complain.

“good.” Count said now that things relaxed a bit. “now i’d like you both to apologize and explain why you acted that way so it’s less likely to happen again.”

Kid went first, eyes back to their regular blue.

“I-I’M SORRY POCKY.” He looked pouty and sad. “I GET NEEDLESSLY DEFENSIVE WHEN IT COMES TO MY OWNER.” A little red slipped back into his eyes and he smiled. “THEY WERE JUST THE BEST PERSON EVER.”

Candy snapped his phalanges at Kid.

“HMM?” He looked at Candy confused.

Candy quickly pointed back and forth between his own eyes in what looked like a practiced motion.

Kids' eye sockets widened and the red fought for a second as it was replaced by blue again. He looked embarrassedly away.

Then everyone looked at Pocky. He seemed to sweat under the gazes before he gave in.

“... i'm sorry for goading you. i was mad at the thought you … might have hurt your family.” His expression hardened as he looked back at Kid. “to me a family is meant to be the one group of people you never betray.”

“I AGREE.” Kid said, firmly and nodding.

Pocky looked unimpressed with the words. Kid continued regardless.

“YOU SEE THAT’S WHY I WANT TO ESCAPE … TO AVOID GETTING ATTACHED TO ANOTHER OWNER FOR ONE. AND SECONDLY - I DON’T WANT TO HURT ANYONE AGAIN!” He all but admitted, fidgeting. “I … I MISS MY FRIENDS … AND … I HATE THAT IT’S MY FAULT THEY’RE GONE.” Kid had a hollow look in his sockets. He whispered in a haunted way. “It wouldn’t have happened if I was a Baby Blue like I had thought.”

He looked like he wanted to cry again. The kind of tears that don’t make a sound but kept coming.

That sounded like more than just regret for what he had done. He really hated himself over it. Over himself.

Pocky stared Kid down hard for a second before huffing and looking out from the tunnel again.

“... i don’t like it.” 

Kid smiled sadly and just kind of accepted it. He fiddled with the hem of his shirt.

“but.” 

Kids eyelight swiveled to the back of Pocky’s skull in surprise.

“i still want to join the escape.” He turned back to the group. He still had a hard look in his eyes. “and the reason is - i think it’s fucked up that people think it’s okay to just buy and sell family like it’s alright and normal. y’know?”

Count nodded. Candy and Kid looked like they hadn’t thought of it like that before, but hesitantly nodded as well … they were probably raised to think it was normal.

Pocky turned back away but kept up the monologue. “... i’m tired of losing people. family's should be irreplaceable. Not something you can just buy and sell off when it’s ‘convenient’ or ‘fun.’ even if the whole world is shit, family are there to help make things a little less shit.”

No wonder he was mad at Kid. And that was before Kid actually admitted to killing his friends … at least he was being civil about it now? About murder? Count realizes he may be a bit desensitized to the concept.

Though something didn’t make sense.

“weren’t you in the neutral party just recently?” Count tentatively asked. “this sounds like you’ve been wanting to leave for … a while.”

“it’s not like there was much choice before - what with needing soul energy and all that.” He shrugged with barely a glance back. “but now that someone like you showed up, we might actually have an okay chance at making it past a month.”

“well, you’re not wrong.” Count admitted. 

Was he being over confident in his abilities? He’d like to think not. He built an interdimensional travel machine once - almost worked perfectly even.

“SO … UM.” Kid looked at Count hopeful, but reserved. “NOW THAT YOU KNOW ABOUT ME … ARE YOU STILL OKAY WITH ME COMING?”

He gave Count puppy dog eyes. As a sentry of Snowdin, he knows them well. The fact that he didn’t need to blink like the dogs didn’t help.

Would it really be safe to bring Kid home to Papyrus? Would he become possessive over his brother? … if Papyrus were here, Count is sure he’d remind him that anyone could change.

Count sighed. For Papyrus’ morals he would give him a chance … But if Kid slipped Count would act … accordingly.

And hopefully he wouldn’t get attached to Count either. Because he was apparently a bitty at the moment and he would probably be fine. 

Probably.

“alright.” Count said giving in. “it’s not as though my pals in the back room aren't without a little LV themselves …” 

Kid beamed at him and began bouncing around like Papyrus used to when he was younger.

1:03:16 PM.

What’s the worst that could happen? If - when they get to his universe, if the worst does happen, Count can just force Flowey into a reset … which brought up the question if they would remember them too.

Eh. Oh well. Save some bitties, rebuild the machine, hop home, try for the next AU. Why did he keep complicating things? He’ll deal with the problems as they arise. No plan can account for every variable after all.

It would be fine. It was simple enough he wouldn’t mess it up.

Kid jumped over and gave him a big hug. Count allowed it, sensing no malice in the gesture, even if he was a little startled by it.

“THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU YOU WON'T REGRET THIS!”

He gave an awkward pat to Kids back.

“ok.” 

Count would not guarantee Kid would not be the one regretting this if he went after Papyrus … one manipulative murder weed was enough.

What Pocky said next surprised them in more than one way.

“try to get along with your new family better than the last.”

Pocky walked away.

“D-DID HE JUST CALL US-?” Tears were forming in his eyes again. This time of the happy variety.

“... it seems he did.” Candy said with brow bones raised.

Kid couldn’t stop smiling even as he scrubbed at his tears.

“I-I NEVER THOUGHT I’D HAVE THAT AGAIN.” Kid admitted. “HEH. I … GUESS IT’S YOUR TURN TO SAY WHY YOU WANT TO ESCAPE.” He looked at Candy who sighed.

“i don’t actually have that big of a reason.” Candy admitted sheepishly as he rubbed the back of his neck. “see i’m just tired of being passed around is all. had i managed to be returned to a better branch i would have had the choice to not be bought again. But those places are rare. i always end up returning to branches that are more about the profit, heh. so i guess it's kinda like pocky's reson?"

"huh.” Count said. “so if we stopped by one of those places would you rather stay there?"

He shrugged. "maybe. depends on how well we manage on our own."

Count nodded. "always good to have a back up plan."

So if they didn't want to hop universes he could drop them off someplace like that.

"BUT WHAT ABOUT ALL THIS TALK ABOUT FAMILY SAYING TOGETHER!? I'D MISS YOUR PUNS!"

"that's sweet of you. never said you guys couldn’t ‘come with’ though." Candy said imitating the way Count had invited them into the escape.

"MWEH HEH!" He laughed at the pun and gave Candy a big smile.

"i candy you two get along."

"..."

"..."

Wow. That bad huh?

"... okay, yeah. that was a stretch ." He stretched to cover.

"pfft. smooth."

Kid rolled his star lights.

Count winked. "always have a back up. anyway, aren't you guys going to do your recruitment thing?"

"OH YEAH! COME ON LIL' BRO!"

It was Candy’s turn to roll his eye lights. "okay kid."

The two left the tunnel.

1:07:09 PM.

Count could finally nap in peace.

***

Punz learned something interesting from Raspberry and Hoods after he joined up with them. 

Apparently, the escape was scheduled to be night after next and anyone was welcome. It was the new guy that had come up with it. Would be leaving with or without them supposedly. Count had seemed pretty adamant about carving his own fate and reuniting with friends, so he couldn’t be surprised … he also couldn’t help but wonder if they would be okay.

Punz was … not a usual Sansy. He was within the company brand supposedly, but he couldn’t help but feel a little constricted to being called one of the ‘lazy’ types. Not that he didn’t enjoy a good nap - he did, in abundance - but he also liked to dance a little.

Not in public no - never. That would just be embarrassing. Just the thought made him want to ball up and hide in his hoodie. But a good work out every once in a while was nice. He was especially fond of hip hop music.

His last owner had caught him a couple embarrassing times - even recorded him once without him noticing. They were the ones who had gotten him interested in it as they did it professionally.

But then they went and posted it. He was only glad that they had used their anonymous account but … that didn’t stop the bitty snatchers. They had somehow found where they lived with some unique buildings that were seen out the window.

It was … bad. Punz managed to slip through their fingers and head for the streets. The next day he returned and confirmed his owner was okay and they got to discussing things but … Punz took it upon himself to leave. It was his fault they had been in danger. He had made it one night, why not longer.

He made it a month and a half before he gave up and walked himself to the closest bitty center. He had been lucky to find a few living things to make contact with … luckily he also found a particularly friendly squirrel in one of the parks. They shared a hole in a tree for a while.

He had barely been sustaining himself however. Squirrels, it seemed, barely have the soul substance to sustain a bitty. Though it made sense as animal souls were completely different from human or monster souls. Bitties weren't designed to sustain themselves off animals, it just prolonged their existence that tiny bit more.

Which was basically what all contact did, but he didn't like thinking about it like that.

Luckily his more agile movements and shortcuts had managed to thwart several ally cats, birds of prey and even rats as he scrounged in dumpsters.

But in the end, he couldn’t hold out and resigned himself to not being able to dance anymore … it was for the best. He entered the bitty center No Bones About It. A predominantly skeleton bitty center as fate would have it.

It was none of his business if a few bitties didn’t know what they were getting themselves into. It wasn’t his problem … even if he worried about it in the back of his skull.

Comet and Happy came by to collect bowls. Raspberry grumbled about Pocky and Count rudely leaving theirs. Hoods and Punz traded a couple, heh, puns. The high energy types complaining about said puns. Hoods asking about the Chief bitty.

“so uh. how’s napoleon? noticed he’s not with you collecting dishes still.”

“STILL CLAIMS TO BE ABOVE HELPING OTHERS, SADLY.” The Baby Blue pouted.

“EVEN IF HE IS THE ONE MOST THOROUGH IN THE UP KEEP OF THE DISPLAY.” The Papy noted.

They could see him cleaning even as they talked.

“SAYS YOU!" Raspberry replied. "I’LL SHOW YOU WHO’S BEST DISPLAY KEEP ONCE AND FOR ALL!”

With that, Raspberry went to ‘compete’ in cleaning with Napoleon. He shoved his, Pocky’s and Count’s bowls off to Happy, not seeing the irony.

Everyone was done eating at this point. They heard a noise from the roof and saw Kyle opening the pen to collect the dishes.

“WOWIE! JUST IN TIME!”

Happy and Comets ran over to the collection area carrying two stacks of bowls. They were very adamant about detailing how collecting dishes went. Kyle pretended to go along with it while he received the dishes but he was clearly disinterested.

Kyle left and all the hyper types besides Kid were set on cleaning before the store opened again.

He wondered what they were talking about, but Pocky appeared to be keeping watch. Unless he put his guard down there wasn’t really any way of getting around that. He knew how attentive the skeleton could be.

“so you’re still not picking a side.” Punz said to Hoods smiling.

Hoods awkwardly did a half shrug.

Punz grin grew bigger. A little more mischievous.

“did i ever tell you the time i had to cuddle a squirrel?

“oh god not again.” Hoods hid in his hood.

“i called her samantha …” He begun.

***

“and that’s how i ended up attending a squirrel birthing. to bad the father couldn’t handle the pressure and booked it. it must be tough being a single parent to three kids.”

Hoods was face down in the saw dust. Punz was casually leaning his back against him, still smiling.

A muffled mumble could be heard from below. 

“how does it get worse every time …?”

Punz chuckled. Messing with Hoods never ceased to amuse him.

Eventually his laughter tapered off and Hoods fell asleep. Hoods would often burn through soul energy pretty fast and end up passing out. Luckily this was not that as Punz made sure to send him spare when he could handle it. Everyone in the display took it upon themselves to make sure he didn’t sleep alone.

It was probably the reason the guy was so nervous all the time.

Punz was about to nod off himself when he noticed Pocky the Pup getting more and more distracted by the conversation in the tunnel. Oooh that looked interesting.

Just in time for Napoleon to wonder close by in his cleaning.

“yo rollio napolio” Punz called.

“WHAT IS IT YOU CRITEN - AND NEVER USE THAT NAME AGAIN! I DESERVE RESPECT AND I EXPECT IT FROM THE LIKES OF YOU.” 

He was scowling. As a Chief was basically a mini-boss it wasn’t unexpected of him.

“you got it pole.” Punz smirked.

“SUCH BLATANT FLIPPANCY.” He pinched the bridge of his nose. “WHAT IS IT PUNZ.”

“ya mind taking over hoods duty? there’s an interesting conversation going on that i’d like to be privy to.” Punz pointedly looked at the tunnel and the increasingly distracted Pocky.

“AND WHY SHOULD I BE DELEGATED SUCH A RESPONSIBILITY? CARING FOR OTHERS IS BENEATH ME.” He turned up his nasal cavity. 

“well yeah. if you sit on him.” Punz smirked. 

Suddenly Pockys attention was fully on the tunnel and he had to act fast if he wanted to find out what was being said.

“tell you what. do this and i’ll do a backflip later.”

He could tell by the expression he had him. A Sansy doing a backflip or anything overly physical? How could he pass that up.

Seeing the expression, Punz wasted no time in shortcutting to the top of the tunnel.

What he heard had him freezing.

“-ERRORS STILL MAKE IT THROUGH. IF WE'RE FOUND WE'RE USUALLY DUSTED OR SOLD ON THE BLACK MARKET TO FIGHT IN THE RING. I’D LIKE TO AVOID EITHER OF THOSE OUTCOMES. I DID SOME RESEARCH INTO IT AFTER - UH - ANYWAY. I BELIEVE MY NON-TYPE IS A *AHEM* *AHEM*” 

Punz couldn’t make it out.

“a … what?” 

“A Yendreberry, okay!?”

He … he wasn’t the only printing error in the display? He forced himself to focus back on the conversation.

“-dusting most of their family?” Pocky sounded accusatory.

“WELL, UH, Y-YES.” Kid sounded regretful.

“care ta tell me if that applies to you?” 

Punz could feel Pockys magic pressure from the top of the tunnel. He seemed … mad.

“okay. let’s all just cool it.” Candy, Punz assumed. “kid’s fine as long as no one disses his first owner - that’s a bad time-” “I SAID I WAS SORRY!” “-also how i found out about his situation. think about it, pup. he’s been here for months and he hasn’t done anything drastic. i’ve been keeping an eye socket on him."

“don’t diss his old owner ya say.” Pocky said in a tone Punz didn’t think was going to end well. “why? they probably got rid of him when they grew bored of him - just like the rest of us.”

“well shi-” Candy was cut of and there were sounds of a struggle.

“YOU TAKE THAT BACK! ” Kid screeched, his own magic building a pressure. Trying to smoother the others.

Punz felt the need to check if there were any eavesdroppers … besides himself. This was a dangerous conversation. 

“THEY WOULD NEVER DO THAT - YOU DON’T KNOW THEM! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE! YOU-”

“e n o u g h.” 

Punz went rigid at the pressure coming from the tunnel. His eyelights sniffed out for a second.

Was that … Count?

Holy hell he was not one to mess with.

“you’re acting like children.” Count growled. “grow up and talk, why don’t you?”

Punz figured it might be dangerous to keep eavesdropping and shortcut back to Hoods. 

Just in time too as Pocky turned away from the tunnel with a very unflattering expression.

It seems Napoleon had accepted your deal … and he did indeed choose to sit on hoods rather than beside. Napoleons leg was jittering up and down rapidly as he glared at Punz. His arms were crossed. It was a miracle Hoods hadn’t woken up from the movement.

Punz stood there a little dazed as he was lectured to.

“SO DID YOU GLEAN ANYTHING OF INTEREST FOR WASTING MY TIME AS SUCH? I HEARD FROM RASPBERRY THAT THEY WERE GOING TO DISCUSS THE SOUL ENERGY PROBLEM. AND YOU BETTER NOT FORGET YOUR END OF THE BARGAIN! IT WOULD BE VERY MUCH AMUSING TO SEE YOU FAIL AT SOMETHING SO SIMPLE.”

As if Napoleon had ever done a backflip in his life. Why did he choose that as his bargaining chip again?

Punz zoned back into his word and answered.

“i’ll do the flip after the store closes.” He flicked his armband and smirked to cover his unease. “already got a buyer.”

Napoleon's face soured.

“and while they didn’t directly say how they were going to deal with the energy problem … i think they might actually pull it off.” He said surprising himself.

He kind of had an idea about the plan for that now.

Napoleon tried to hide his surprise and stood abruptly.

“WELL I SUPPOSE THAT IS … SOMETHING. I WILL NOW RETURN TO MY DUTIES.”

He made a b-line to Raspberry.

Puns the Sansy sighed as he settled down to lie practically on top of Hoods. They weren’t far from the stage like area with the heating lamp and were in the wide open as the sound of the store reopening filled the air.

Punz closed his eyes, dead tired.

Why did he say he would do a backflip? The whole display would no doubt hear about it by the time the store closes.

He pulled up his hood, blushing just thinking about it.

Maybe he’d sleep the rest of the day away and they’d forget about it.

Chapter Text

In the Factory, Kid knew he was different. But before he went home, he never knew how much.

The other Baby Blues were a lot better at pretending to hate puns. Some didn’t even have to pretend. But he managed to fake it within the acceptable range … barely.

He also had a harder time keeping his hands still - even compared to other hyper types, and he had a problem with staring. He just wanted to remember people forever! But no one stays around long enough and it makes him sad. But he’s good at smiling anyway.

He had overheard the workers talking about his scores one day. Apparently, had he not managed any better, they would have stamped him as defective … none of the Baby Blues knew what happened after that. They just knew they wouldn’t find a home. Everyone was excited to find a home and receive their First Name! The numbers worked, but they had gotten long over the years of bitty manufacturing.

So he tried really hard to be like the other Baby Blues. He really did! And somehow his score improved enough that he was going to be sent out to a shop.

“BB-7859-2137-EB?”

“HERE!” Kid had bounced excitedly. 

He was gestured to which portable room was his. Inside there were two other bitties. An Edge and a Papy. He hadn’t met these two before, but he knew what to expect from their types from the lessons.

“HI PAPY! HI EDGE! IT’S NICE TO MEET YOU!” Kid couldn’t stop from staring and gesturing wildly in his excitement.

“HELLO BABY BLUE! IT IS NICE TO MEET YOU TOO!” The Papy said as they shook hands firmly. Kid swung the handshake as fast as he could. The Papy tried to match but Kid ended up winning the handshake.

“tch. keep it down. i’m tryin’ ta nap.” The Edge said from the ground, before muttering. “assholes.” 

“LANGUAGE!” Both Kid and the Papy yelled causing him to cringe.

***

Finally, Kid got his first experience of the store as he and his new friends were put into a display with new clothes. It was all so big and new and exciting! He couldn’t wait to find a home! … he hoped his new friends could come too. That would be the best!

A few days later there was a ding at the door as a new customer entered. Kid could feel the shy kindness rolling off them in waves. They were clearly unsure about the shop and they continuously fiddled with the edge of their leather jacket, eyes looking everywhere, even as their head was ducked.

They looked very cool to Kid. The person at the desk seemed intimidated by their appearance. He did his best not to stare but he couldn’t help his hands moving. 

“THIS TIME FOR SURE.” Kid said to Edge.

“yeah. whateva. tha’s what ya said last time. an’ the time ‘fore tha’.”

“OH COME NOW EDGE! HAVE HOPE!” Papy said. The three waited in clear view of the customers. Other newer bitties doing the same.

After a while, Kid began to notice that the new person's eyes would drift over to his own fidgeting more often than not. 

Then they eventually came over.

He was surprised. Most customers head straight for the fuzzy bitties and stay there. But this one seemed to go through all the sections before coming to a stop right before Kid.

“H-hi.” They said.

Kid was so excited. This was the first customer to directly talk to him!

“HELLO!”

They gently smiled at his excited movements.

“You have ADHD to?” They paused. “Oh wait … can bitties even have …?”

“I DO NOT BELIEVE SO.” Kid admitted. “BUT IF YOU ARE REFERRING TO MY … EXUBERANT MOTIONS, THAT IS INDEED A THING I DO.”

Their hands fidgeted more as they smiled softly, as they thought about something.

“Would you - would you like to come home with me?” They asked.

“YES!” Kid burst out.

The person looked relieved and happy.

“BUT …!” Kid said excited as he looped his arms through Edge and Papy’s, much to their surprise. Then he spoke more gently. “I KNOW IT A LOT TO ASK BUT … CAN WE TAKE MY FRIENDS WITH US?”

He gave his best puppy dog eyes he could manage.

“I …” They looked to be deeply contemplating it. Then, finally, they gave a kind smile. “You know what? I’ll do it.”

Kid and Papy cheered excitedly and Edge looked shocked.

“holy shit.” He said.

“LANGUAGE!”

***

Everything was amazing for the first month. They saw and did so many fun new things. They tried real food for the first time, went to a park, saw movies - It was great! Edge even managed to help remind their owner about their medication when they would forget.

They had gotten their first names and everything bitty could have hoped to have.

They were a family!

But … eventually Kid grew jealous and paranoid. At first it was small things. Lying. Manipulation. That sort of thing. They were Kids favorite - of course Kid had to be their favorite too.

He was scared they would leave him alone all the time. That they wouldn’t care anymore. He just couldn’t bring himself to be apart long.

It eventually went further. It eventually became threats and violent fits.

Kid had gotten them fired so they could stay home with him longer. Had ostracized them from their friends and family … gotten rid of his own. It was surprisingly easy for him, when he thought they were in his way.

He didn’t realize what he was doing wrong until it was much too late. There was nothing but dust and blood left for him in the end.

It took him a while to realize why they had done it. But when he did, he was filled with self hate. How could he do that to the most precious person in the world? No - more than that - how could he have done that to his first friends … to his family?

It was all his fault.

The neighbors reported a smell a while later. He was found crying as he was taken away. He didn’t deserve their comforting words.

It was put down to an act of depression. They didn’t suspect the crying little Baby Blue.

But that wasn’t right was it? He wasn’t really a Baby Blue.

He was alone.

***

Kid shook his past from his mind. That conversation with Count and the others had really done a number on him.

He had even tried to attack Pocky! It’s a good thing he had Candy or … he’s not sure. His first owner was such a kind soul - he never meant to ruin their life. They, were good and nice and kid just wanted to be together forever-

He closed his eye sockets, breathed in and exhaled. He hated that possessive feeling. Sometimes he didn't even notice it. It slowly ate up his thoughts whenever he thought of them. To a lesser extent the one that followed but … no one could replace them.

At least with the second one he could act almost like a proper bitty and nothing overly terrible occurred.

He wished he were Comet. Comet was a good bitty. Comet was a good Baby Blue.

Comet didn’t drive his owner to suicide or kill his friends. His owner went to college and got to live their life.

Kid took another breath but kept smiling. The store sounded like it was opening. It wouldn’t be good to draw attention when he was like this.

“you good?” He heard Candy ask from his left.

No. Kid wasn’t a good bitty. But he knew that.

He opened his eye sockets and smiled anyway.

“I’M FINE, THANK YOU. YOU KNOW HOW I AM. I … I JUST NEED TO KEEP DISTRACTED!”

Kid focused on recruitment. On the escape. How would he convince each bitty to join them? What arguments would he use when? Would Punz bring up Samantha again or give one of his more serious arguments?

He wasn’t thinking about his first owner at all! Yes he was.

“... maybe we should take a break under one of the overhangs.” Candy said leaning down and peering at his face - into his eye lights. “your eye lights keep tryin’ to do the thing.”

“... OKAY.”

He knew he was right. Recruitment can wait. Punz and Hoods looked like they were sleeping anyway. It wouldn’t be fair to just argue one side. It could wait till he was more composed. The other bitties were sunning themselves as they gossiped under the heating lamp and it would be rude to interrupt. After lunch is when most chatting was done but … Candy was right. He needed a moment.

When they both got under the overhang, Candy sat down and yawned.

Kid hesitated before joining him, but joined him he did. He continued to fidget.

Candy yawned again.

“... I’M SORRY YOU HAD TO HOLD ME BACK EARLIER.”

He just waved it off.

“it’s not like you meant it … kinda.” He yawned again.

“I’M SORRY." Kid said distracted and huffy. "BUT DO YOU NEED TO NAP?”

“mmm. maybe. been an exciting day.” An understatement.

“... WOULD YOU BE MORE COMFORTABLE WITH PUNZ AND HOODS?”

“mmnah. ‘m good … right here …” He fell asleep.

Kid huffed but there was no anger.

“Lazy bones.” He said fondly.

He wished he'd go back to being more cautious with him. Kid was dangerous and Candy knew that. Why did he stop acting like it he did?

A few seconds later a skeleton cleared his throat.

Kid blinked and saw it was Happy and smiled. He was a lot like his old friend in many ways. He was still happy to see Happy regardless.

“HELLO HAPPY.” He greeted cheerfully. He wasn’t overly worried about waking Candy. “HOW ARE YOU?”

“I AM QUITE WELL KID." " He looked worried about something. "BUT … YOU SEE, WE WERE DISCUSSING THE PLAN. IS IT TRUE THAT IT IS PLANNED FOR THE NIGHT AFTER THIS?”

“YES." Kid could answer that much. "COUNT HAS KINDLY OFFERED TO LEAD THE EXCURSION.”

“I … SEE. BUT WHAT I TRULY WISH TO ASK IS … ARE YOU OKAY!?” He wrung his fingers together. “I KNOW THAT SOMETIMES YOU PREFER YOUR SPACE BUT YOU LOOKED PERHAPS A TAD … FORLORN IN THIS MOMENT.”

Happy was concerned for him? That was nice. Of course he was - he didn't know Kid was dangerous.

Kid closed his eye sockets and leaned back. Just in case.

“PERHAPS A BIT TIRED." And that was true, to an extent. "POCKY AND ME ENDED UP HAVING A TEENY ARGUMENT. WE APOLOGISED IMMEDIATELY AFTER BUT I WAS GOING TO JOIN CANDY FOR A SMALL NAP. JUST ENOUGH TO BOOST UP MY ENERGY OF COURSE.”

“I UNDERSTAND." Happy said, nodding even if he was still worried looking. "WELL THEN. I WILL. BE OFF. I HOPE TO SEE YOU ATTENDING PUNZ’S ATTEMPTS OF BACKFLIPPAGE AFTER THE STORE CLOSES AT LEAST.”

Kids eyes opened in surprise and excitement as he bolted upright.

“HE’S GOING TO WHAT!?”

***

They didn’t forget.

Punz sighed and kicked the ground, knocking up saw dust chunks.

His hood was up and he was surrounded by pretty much the entire display. Even some of the bitties in the other displays had caught on that something was going to happen and were pressed up against the glass to get a peak.

He could feel the gaze of the injured bitty in the Special Care display from where he was.

The store had turned a golden quality as the sun began to dip. He couldn’t see it from the store, but Punz knew that Mt Ebott would be awash in the colors right about now. He missed the view from the apartment.

The crowd around him was giving all kinds of encouragement and feedback.

“YOU CAN DO IT!” Comet called from his perch on Happy's back.

“GIVE IT YOUR ALL! HOLD NOTHING BACK!” Cheered Happy, happily clapping.

Candy gave him finger guns and Kid was staring him down as intently as ever, his hands the farthest from still as he's ever seen them. Kids arms full on swinging back and forth in his excitement.

“I’M SO EXCITED! DO YOUR BEST PUNZ!”

“AT THE VERY LEAST MAKE IT AMUSING WHEN YOU FAIL!” Napoleon said. His arms crossed and pretended he was uninterested.

Count was lazily lying on his back on the heating lamp platform and watching it all upside down. He gave a thumbs up that was actually a thumbs down to the rest, looked at it surprised, then righted it. He smiled smugly. Clearly it was intentional.

“IT’S ONLY A BACKFLIP. I COULD DO IT WITH MY EYES CLOSED.” Raspberry boasted. His hands were on his hips as his smile twitched upwards in amusement as he watched Punz patiently.

“raspberry cool of you.” Pocky said, smirking. “why don’t you go next then?”

There were the expected mixed reactions to the pun.

Raspberry sputtered a bit before responding.

“I-I HAVE NO NEED TO PROVE ANYTHING. IF YOU DO NOT BELIEVE ME THAT IS SIMPLY YOUR ERROR. I HAVE DONE MANY BACKFLIPS IN MY TIME! MANY!”

“ok. no need to flip out.” Candy said, shrugging broadly.

“i second that motion.” Hoods shyly added.

“hey guys. don’t mass x acceleration him.” Count said. “... force is equal to mass times acceleration.” He elaborated when some didn’t get it. 

The ones that did get it were either laughing or screeching twice as hard. Probably because it was extra bad. Kid even snorted and Comet and Happy looked over betrayed. He quickly had his hands cover his mouth and looked away but was still smiling.

“I CAN NOT BELIEVE IT! HOW COULD YOU FALL TO THE DARK SIDE!?” Happy asked but was now struggling to hold back his own smile.

Kid fell to the ground in a giggling fit. Candy stood above him and looked at Happy with the most deadpan look he could manage.

“luke at what you have done to him.”

A tiny “PFFT,” could be heard from the tall skeleton.

“NO! NOT YOU TOO! DO NOT FOLLOW THEIR INFLUENCE!” Comet held on tighter to Happy’s back. “YOU CAN FIGHT IT HAPPY!”

“I AM SORRY COMET! THEIR WORDPLAY IS TO STRONG!” His eye lights boggled out of his sockets. "THEY HAVE INVOKED A CLASSIC MOVIE REFERANCE!"

Raspberry’s smile quivered and he was forced to look away.

“WHAT A BUNCH OF LUNATICS.” Napoleon pinched the bridge of his nasal cavity.

Punz was slowly using the distraction to edge out of the circle. Maybe they would forget after all …?

“HOLD IT PUNZ!”

Ah, drat. 

“YOUR NOT GETTING AWAY THAT EASILY!”

He sighed. He turned back head low. He was once more the center of attention.

“... so you wanna see me backflip.”

There were several enthusiastic confirmations, and several smug ones.

“... alright, get ready. i’m only doing this once.”

Everyone calmed down quickly after that and he got back in the center. Some of the bitties in the other display had gotten bored.

Punz began to slowly, methodically pump his arms. He had regained the interest of the freshies. It was clear what was about to happen.

“on three. one … two …”

Where he would say three he promptly let himself fall backwards onto the ground.

“was it as amazing as you envisioned?” Punz asked smugly from the ground making himself comfortable, hands behind his skull.

There were several face palms. Those in the other display lost interest completely. Well not the one in the Special Care display, but Punz knew he wasn’t a talker.

“NO. DO IT PROPERLY.” Napoleon demanded, picking him up by the armpits and depositing him on his feet. Impressive, as they were basically the same height. Napoleon is slightly shorter even.

He stepped back and glowered. Punz just lazily smiled.

“alright. alright.” Punz put his hands up defensively. “but first … what’s that over there!?”

He pointed behind a now startled Napoleon who followed where he had pointed -

- and Punz did  the most graceful backflip he could manage, sticking the landing and bouncing on the balls of his feet for a second.

Napoleon turned back even more startled to cheers and exclamations of surprise.

“woah.” “OH WOWIE!” “he did it?” “I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT!” “i blinked. redo it.” “SO COOL!”

“NO - WAIT I WASN’T LOOKING!” Napoleon yelled. “YOU DID THAT ON PURPOSE! AGAIN!”

“woah, bub. i thought the deal was a backflip … not that i had to show you.” Punz was smirking. “but if you want i can go back to the original.”

He flopped on the ground. The wood chips were comfy. He could feel the heating lamp from here warming his hoodie. 

Perfect.

ZZZZZZZZ.

“NOOOOOO!!!!”

***

(Authors Note: Anyone else fill that “NO!” with audio from that scene from Star Wars? You know the one. Also still cliffhanger-ing on. With what comes next you’ll be glad I didn’t stop at the totally plot relevant filler *eye roll* (that was fun to write))

***

It was late. 

1:13:18 AM to be exact.

Count found himself nearly in the middle of the bitty pile. Those included were Candy, Kid, Hoods and Punz. The others were split into two other piles from what he remembered - the sharps (Pocky, Napoleon, Raspberry) and the softs (Comet and Happy).

The store was covered in a dark haze in the late hour. It didn’t bother Count at all. It was much brighter than ‘night’ back home after all. The red light from the heating lamp also provided ample lighting. He was right about his initial thought of it being a nice napping spot.

He briefly wondered if he should sneak out to see the stars …? 

Later. He had things to do.

Carefully he extracted himself from the pile, slipping between limbs and further into the open. He noted the other two other piles were a lot closer than they were before - they must have shifted in their sleep.

Count kinda wanted to take out his phone and take a picture, but if his attacks were any indication … it probably stayed the same size. He’d make sure to check when he had some distance.

His dark grey hoodie offered okay camouflage as he pulled up his hood. Quietly he made his way over to the glass and focused on a spot just in front of the desk and he was there.

He didn’t trust that things in the office hadn’t moved around and he wasn’t fond of the idea of ending up in a stack of papers. Not that it was painful, but it was certainly uncomfortable being semi-merged with foreign material.

All it would take is a few steps and he’d be out but … it was really unpleasant. If one looked at it in video game terms, it would be like a harmless glitch … but it also carried the risk of ‘falling out of the world.’

Count didn’t want to experience that ever again. Any longer to figure out what was happening and he was sure he’d have ended up in the void. A second shortcut was usually the safest and fastest method to getting out of that type of situation.

So, yeah. He shortcut to in front of the desk, not taking any chances.

Immediately he felt watched. A sigh. He turned to see one bloated red eye light staring down at him from the Special Care display.

Count gave a smile that was more a grimace and held a phalange to his teeth and tilting his head.

Keep quite about this?  

The bitty smiled wider before making a familiar gesture.

Greedy bastard wanted compensation.

Head still tilted, Count spread his arms wide.

What do you want / do you seriously see me with anything good?  

The bitty shrugged and patted his stomach area.

Ah. Well. Count was going to check if there was any food in the office (that orange came from somewhere ) and if it came to it, he had a couple hotdogs…(?) in his inventory. Tools, his phone, blueprints, the letter and the clothes he came in filled the rest mostly. The rest of the stuff he had packed was in his phone's dimensional boxes.

He brought his attention back to the negotiation before the thought of if his phone could still make outgoing calls to his universe could distract him.

Count pointed to his eye sockets and pointed around in a circle.

I’ll see what’s around.  

The bitty seemed pleased with that answer and retreated back into his display.

Welp. That could have gone worse. Could have gone better too.

Without further delay, Count traversed the stupidly large room and made his way to the office door down the stupidly large hallway. Using blue magic he tested the knob. Unlocked.

Grinning he opened the door enough to get in and looked around. It didn’t take long to find a gift basket of fruits in one of the large drawers. It was in Bastards desk and had a get well card. It was written to Tiffany. Probably the name of the sick coworker Kid mentioned earlier.

Count helped himself to a banana, remembering the trick he had seen Cloak and Dagger used he focused on making his attack sharp. Pocky did it briefly as well … though that was under different circumstances. 

Turns out it’s as simple as adding the intent of ‘stab’ rather than just ‘attack.’ Count found that rather interesting. He wondered what other ways you could modify a bone attack.

Quickly he experimented with the intent of 'floppy' and was not disappointed. That would be a good joke attack.

After the fruit was finished, he put an apple into his inventory.

Done with the food for now (taking too much would be suspicious) he short up to the computer and began to research bitties.

He pulled up the set up he had used last time. Three summoned bones typed away as he dictated their moves.

Not much was posted on the creation progress and there were even a few conspiracy theories to be read. One of them was that they were holding monsters hostage in order to clone them. Another claimed they were made from a magic clay and they came to life after electroshock therapy.

There was so much shade and conflict over it that Count dismissed them all. He could hack into their database later if he got his hands on another computer. That would take too much time tonight as he had several things to do.

For one, he set up a simple program that would activate after they left. A little something of a parting gift for dear Bastard as it were.

He then did his best to research bitty types and behaviors. He had mostly gleaned as much from interacting with them.

Then he searched ‘printing error bitty’ and there were even more conspiracy theories. He even saw a small clip of a Sansy busting some pretty impressive moves. The bitty supposedly went missing shortly after.

He found Kids type under a creepy pasta and a ew other interesting ones. He snorted when he saw there were some with cat ears. 

But then came across a few that looked … strangely familiar. Count had to do a double take.

That looked just like …

He pulled the letter from his inventory and the pages fluttered everywhere. Well then … at least he figured out that he was right about things in his inventory staying the same size.

Inventories were already half in the void after all. 

He vaguely remembers Gaster fooling around with them shortly after he invented the prototype for the dimensional box. Back when it was still connected to the machine. Jokingly putting his arm in up to his shoulder and pretending it was bitten off. Then he tripped on some wires and, welp, no more Gaster. Fallen into his own creation.

No wonder the core doesn’t have safety rails. Gaster wasn't very big on safety procedures. It was one of the few things he remembered clearly.

Luckily Alphys implemented safety features when she rediscovered the blueprints and made them standard in phones. Now people can't put anything living - like themselves - into the inventory.

How Annoying Dog could do it was any ones guess. Maybe they were secretly a creature from beyond the void, Count joked to himself.

Count was quick to grab the papers of the letter with his blue magic and pull them up to the side of the screen, using it's light to make out the image and compare.

Yup. That looked exactly like the Destroyer. As a bitty. Being cuddled into a pair of woman breasts and blushing. He looked like he was trying to get away. Count kinda wanted to laugh at the image. All the comments were screaming ‘liar' and 'photoshop.’ Both about the bitty and the woman's, uh, size.

Next he searched about the Ring. It wasn’t pretty. And illegal in this universe, thankfully. He still managed to find footage however. There was also another familiar face. 

Nightmare. As a bitty. He was ruthlessly savaging a pair that looked just like Cloak and Dagger with his goopy tentacles. In a matter of moments they were only dust with the Nightmare bitty standing victorious. The bitty jumped at the cage that surrounded the Ring shaking it, causing several of the ones in the audience to flinch back. Their faces were blurred, but most were human … but not all them were.

The tiny Nightmare smiled cruelly at the camera and more bitties were forced into the Ring … Count decided to stop watching.

So somehow these types were mimicking the appearance of monsters from the multiverse? Either that or they turned into bitties too, but if that were the case it would have been mentioned in the letter. And they would have probably escaped the AU by now.

He wasn’t working on the machine that long. About half a year in his time. It was only nine days.

The state of the multiverse couldn’t have changed so drastically in that time, right? They had people for that. 

The next things Count researched were gold exchange rate (nice), nearby abandoned buildings, locations of other bitty centers and how they operated and the type of materials easily purchased online. He even went ahead and made a fake research company website to make getting parts easier … it was very lackluster, but it would do. He threw on an add for a web designer to look even more legit.  He’d break into a library and do online shopping there until he could order his own computer.

The question of how to exchange the Gold in his inventory was the problem, but he’d figure it out. It needed to be done in person in large sums it seemed. 

By the time he was done it was 4:37:38 AM.

He logged out and made sure everything was mostly how he found it.

After a moment, Count decided to check himself to see the state of things. He pulled out his soul … and it was as big as he was. 

Okay, wow, did not see that coming, even though he should have.

It was a little brighter than last he checked - that was years ago - but that wasn't what he focused on.

“COUNT”

LV - 1

HP - 10

ATK - 2

DEF - 2

*A Sansy with a monster’s soul and magic.

Count did a double take at his stats. Where he expected all ones, he was met with a substantial boost. Still probably the weakest in the Underground but that didn’t really bother him. It was the text that had him pinching the bridge of his nasal cavity.

“well damn. that settles that.”

It was also the probable reason for the boost. He had read that bitties HP average is at about twenty to forty. About the same as children and infants in that regard. Whatever the machine did must have averaged the stat.

He dismissed his soul and it dissipated while phasing through him. It was a little disconcerting having the wall of white get directly in his face, but he knew it would be fine. Probably. 

Welp, off to visit Cloak and Dagger. He’s too busy for an existential crisis.

Hopping down he exits and closes the door.

Next he wandered over to the heavier set door and used his blue magic on the handle. Locked.

Normally that’s where a monster's attempts would halt, assuming it’s locked with intent as well. But since the one who locked it was human … he cut to sit on the handle and put a hand to the lock. He closed his eyes and concentrated.

Using his blue magic he fiddled with the inner working spindles until - click! - he was in. He smiled as the door opened enough to let him in. He cuts back onto the ground and waltzes in.

It appeared to be a room for medical use. No wonder it had a lock on it then. 

He cut up onto the … exam table. It was a lot like an operating table he noted. He decided not to think about it as he scanned the cages. Luckily there was a tiny window that let light in and it didn’t take long to find the two forms lying as close to each other as the bars would allow. They were the only bitties there after all.

4:45:06 AM.

“mornin’ boys!” Count yelled causing them to startle awake.

Cloak hit his head on the bars cursing profanities as they both sprang up in defensive stances and summoning bones.

“now is that anyway to great an old pal?” Count asked, amused.

They blinked in disbelief and lowered their attacks.

“... count?” Cloak looked surprised.

“the one and only." He confirmed. "thought i’d let you know i didn’t forget about you.”

“I TOLD YOU HE WOULD COME BACK.”

“... yeah … you did.”

Count shortcut into the cage and sat down so that they were both in his view. They had dispersed their attacks by now.

“so anyway.” Count said at ease, now in the cage with Cloak. “i’ll be bustin’ us out tomorrow night. before who ever it is that comes to collect shows up.”

Cloak merely furrowed his brow at the change in location. They already knew his magic was weird. Count saw no reason to hold back.

“why not tonight?” He asked after a pause.

“still got some preparations to make." Count admitted. "you don’t mind if i bring company do you?”

“company?” He looked confused.

Count shrugged like it was no big deal.

“bunch of the return display wanna join in. i said sure.”

Cloak put his hands together and breathed out slowly.

“... are you telling me you plan to bust out the whole store.”

“what?" Count said shocked. "no not at all. just the ones that want to come … though it’s probably best to leave the freshies out of it. they probably don’t have the experience to make it out there.”

Count had read that new bitties haven’t experienced anything outside the factory and have very little knowledge except for how to act as pets. It would honestly be better for them if they stayed.

“I BELIEVE THAT WOULD BE WISE." Dagger nodded. "A LARGER EXPIRIANCED GROUP MAY NOT BE SUCH A BAD IDEA.”

"heh. maybe."

“but what about soul energy?” Cloak cut in.

Cloak looked stressed as he began to claw at the floor. There appeared to be small markings from him having done it for a while.

“tell you what." Count said in all seriousness. "why don’t you check me and decide if it’s worth asking again?”

The two looked surprised at the offer. Without permission, outside of a battle it was considered very rude to check someone because it also included HP unlike a battle - a thing some monsters were very private about. Himself among them. But at least ten wasn’t as bad as one. Kinda like someone going up and just taking your ID's to read. Not a very comfortable thing to let a stranger do, but certainly the fastest way to exchange info about oneself.

Count was special in the way he didn’t need to check someone to know their LV … and by the fact that he could see the number at all. For all the other stats he had to play by the rules though.

Cloaks eye sockets narrowed.

“... fine.”

Count could tell they checked him when their eye sockets widened in shock.

Unlike with a self check, a soul would remain in place and the one being checked would only have a vague idea about the flavor text. Count was pretty sure it was showing the same thing he saw before.

“holy fuck.” Cloak stared him down. “How?”

“well, you remember what i said before about bein’ a lab rat?" He shrugged. "let’s just say i had an interesting experience with an interesting machine just before we met.”

Ah, half truths - saving his non-existent behind yet again.

4:52:46 AM.

… from what he doesn't know. Maybe it's just habit at this point.

“anyway, i should get back before anyone notices i’m gone." He stood up. "see ya tomorrow night.”

Count was just about cut back to the door when he heard a stomach growl.

Count sighed “... the bastard neglected to feed you, didn't he?”

Cloak was turned roughly away.

“tch. none of your concern.”

Dagger answered.

“WE HAVEN’T SEEN ANYONE ELSE SINCE WE WERE PLACED HERE.”

Count pinched the bridge of his nose.

“i guess that means you also haven’t received any contact.”

“nothing we can’t handle.” He practically growled. Actually, Count thought he heard an actual  underlying growl in there too.

But it was possibly true. A bitty could go on average a month without, so he had read. The problem was he didn’t know when they last topped off … besides when they had cuddled him the night before. But they had also no doubt expanded a lot of healing magic as well. Who knows what state they would be in if he didn't have a monster soul. Might have even been on the verge of dusting because of Bastard. 

And they did that for a stranger. For Count.

“IF IT … WOULDN’T BE TO MUCH TROUBLE.” Dagger began, face looking like he bit into a lemon. “WOULD YOU SIT WITH US A COUPLE MINUTES?”

“... all right." Count agreed. Better to error on the side of caution. Besides, he did owe them. "i also have an apple in my inventory you can-”

“You Also Have An Inventory!?” They exclaimed in tandem.

Count blinked.

“-split. oh wow. so regular bitties also don’t have inventory? didn’t see that on the wiki.”

Count pulled the apple from the void. Summoning three sharpened bones (he was getting pretty good at that) he quickly split it into three roughly equal sized slices, returning one into his inventory. He had made a bargain after all.

He shortcut the other slice to Daggers cage.

He sat back down, this time with his back to Daggers side. Now they could sit in a little huddle and remain in contact.

“... do you use your magic like this often?" Cloak questioned. "so … casually?”

“pretty much. you did wonder where i put all the food at breakfast.” He patted the ground next to him. “come and take a load off, mr edgy.”

He huffed but came over any way dragging the apple slice with him and roughly sitting down. Dagger did the same on his side and Count could feel them both leaning on him.

Eh. At least he’s comfy. Getting into the bitty pile for the night was a lot more awkward.

For a few minutes they sat in silence as the two ate their apple slices.

4:55:59 AM.

A few minutes later, after the slices were done and suddenly there was a rumbling sensation. It was coming from Cloak who's eye sockets had fallen closed.

“are you … purring?” Count asked, surprised and amused.

The wiki had said that they do that. But it was one thing to read and another to experience.

“w-what?" His socket's snapped open. "no - s-shuddup! m’ growling cuz yer such a loser.”

His skull had blown up a full red as he scooted away. The purring had stopped.

“awww. that’s adorable.” Count teased. “do you want some head pats too?”

He reached out to Cloak.

“no! get away from me you freak!”

Cloak shortcut to the other side of the cage glowering and half growling. It didn't sound like a serious growl - Count wasn't sure how he could tell, but that was the impression he got.

Count was chuckling and raising his hands in surrender. 

“peace, cloak.” He smirked. “i’m just edging you on.”

Cloak paused before snorting. 

“fine. just don’t make a habit outta it.”

He walked back over. Before he could sit Count spoke again, wiggling his brow bones.

“not unless you want me too~” 

“why you-” And thus Cloak began shoving him away rather roughly, smirking. “go back to your display buddies you fucking weirdo! you're one to talk when you were purring in the sunshine just yesterday, mr lab rat.”

Now Count was blushing. He vaguely remembered ignoring some kind of rumbling at the time.

“did not-”

“did too~”

“IF YOU WOULD EXCUSE ME!” Dagger said, gaining their attention. He suddenly began fidgeting with his cardigan. “BEFORE YOU GO. MAY … MAY I RECEIVE THOSE HEAD PATS?”

He reminded Count a lot of his Papyrus in that moment, despite the sharper appearance.

Count smiled softly.

“sure i can bud.”

Dagger looked pleased with the answer but was clearly trying to hide it.

Cloak huffed and rolled his eye lights as Count walked over to where Dagger was kneeling on one knee. It was like he was about to be knighted … with head pats. These guys were so amusing.

Count gave Dagger the head pats. He seemed pleased.

4:58:47 AM.

“welp. i’ll see you tomorrow.” He winked and cut to the door.

He shut and locked it as he made his way back to the front.

Last thing he heard before it closed was a rough, "later asshole."

As it clicked shut, he remembered the thing he had thought about with his phone maybe still connecting home ... but surely not?

He found himself back in the office regardless and his phone out of his inventory. He was ... nervous. What if it worked? What if it didn't?

He hit call.

It.

It was actually ringing and-

The phone went staticky and crunchy as it was answered. He could hear his bro under all the interference however.

He sounded afraid. Sans was immediately on edge.

"S-NS? WH-R- A- -U-? WHAT'S TH-S -BOU- AN EV-CU-ION?" 

"papyrus? papyrus! stay on the line! what's happening? what can you see?"

"I D-N'T KN- WHAT'S HAPPENING! THER-'S - BL-K SK-TON TH-T LO-K- L-KE Y-O! T-ERE ARE BLUE STRINGS EVE-YW-RE! -VERY-NE IS RUNNI-! WA-T. WH-T IS TH-? WH-TE? -AN?"

There is the sound of the phone hitting the ground and he can only hear static.

"papyrus! please respond! say something!"

5:00:00 AM.

Count sat there stunned. Blue strings? Black skeleton? The only one he know with that description is … is the Destroyer.

"shit - papyrus listen to me!" He desperately yells into the static. "you need to stall him! help will come! it'll be okay! big bro say it'll all be *hic* okay. h-help will … will c-come …"

 It was to late wasn't it. Help would never come. There was no respond from the static. If only he was there - if only that damn flower-

There was the sound of shifting on the other side and the static lessened until it was mostly gone.

"p-papyrus …?" He hated the way his voice cracked with hope but he couldn't help it.

"nO." Came a voice that was clearly not Papyrus.

Despite the static being gone, the voice that came out was warped and glitched.

Count froze. It couldn't be.

"pApYrUs Is GoNe."

Click.

Chapter Text

***

Undertale_Copy208

***

Error determinedly pushed forward. Between the clouds of dust and the occasional attacks he weaved with string. He made his way methodically through the chaos as he cut each monster down.

His face was set blankly and no one could discern the emotional state of the Destroyer as he was forced to destroy this glitching universe. It was bad enough that some of the pixels that make up reality had even begun to glitch in a sickeningly familiar way ... just like he was.

More monsters fell to dust against the onslaught of his strings, bones and occasionally blasters and they disappeared into the snow as sparkling puffs of silvery powder. It had no right to look that pretty - all this murder and death ... all this DeStRuCtIoN. He hated the grainy feeling as their dust settled between his joints and clung to him as if to scream one last accusation at their killer.

The Voices, as always, had mixed opinions. Some egging him on, wanting more dust, more pain. Others begged him to reconsider, and yet more cursed him and his work. A few said they sympathized - it was all useless blabber. He ignored them. It’s not like it mattered what they said at this point - he had heard it all before.

He had to destroy the AU or this world would fracture and take down its surrounding neighbors. One of them was a Littletale - and like hell he was gonna risk those kids for some uninteresting copy. It was also a lot more work to clean up AU fragments than to just delete it whole ... though if he didn't kill the inhabitants it would lead to a much slower, and much more painful death - the least he could do is make it quick. It could take days more for a world to delete fully if the inhabitants were alive. Which is way he was here - to make sure it was quick.

It was the only MERCY he could ever give a dying world. Not like anyone needed to know that ... it made things easier if they hated him. 

Error had been going for about three hours now - which wasn't bad because he was taking his time a little to see what was interesting about this world to the Voices. Could still use some chocolate after this. Maybe another break.

He saved Snowden for last as he knew that that skeleton would be the last to take action anyway. Though more often than not the pattern had changed recently and they ended up the first to show up in the worlds he had to destroy … he really should see into that. It was getting annoying and the inkstain had managed to intercept him more often because of it.

Error made quick and painless work of most of the residents and had yet to run into the Papyrus which was … also odd. Normally he’d be one of the first to start fighting back - mostly with words - even with the recent switch up. Fighting both brothers at once was a pain, but doable.

Unfortunately, in this Undertale AU, it was before the human had fallen and the flower was the one in charge of the timeline … and if you can’t kill it, take it. He hoped the antivoid would be comfortable for the homicidal megalomaniac - not.

It was the flowers fault things had gotten so bad. Kept Resetting when an asset was missing.

Normally the Reset or Load would produce a duplicate as a replacement (infinite chocolate loop has been a well documented phenomenon), but this universe seemed to have failed in that. And even after that a universe should be stable enough to handle a few more Resets before deteriorating. Further decay could be avoided with the return of the asset and roughly ‘patched’ with a True Reset, however … the world would permanently be affected in some way.

This world had passed the no return point a dozen times over. Just how much had this flower Reset …?

Error was wondering if he’d ever find the Papyrus when he heard him.

"SANS? WHERE ARE YOU? WHAT'S THIS ABOUT AN EVACUATION?" 

Papyrus was on the phone. Error was trying to decide if interrupting was too rude as the townsfolk - what was left - began running around in panic at the Fire Exit being ripped from it's hinges and their safe haven being uprooted. Even Undyne wouldn’t be so rude as to interrupt a phone conversation but … 

"-yrus? pap-! -ay on - -ine! -at's -ning? wh-t can -u see?"

Error grit his teeth. The phone quality was so bad! The call was horrible and staticky. It was grating as Error tried to focus on the other monsters first, spreading his net of blue magic string further. If he casually angled things so the Papyrus didn’t see what was happening to the monsters, well, that was his business wasn’t it?

"I DON'T KNOW WHAT'S HAPPENING!” Papyrus looked around with wide sockets. “THERE'S A BLACK SKELETON THAT LOOKS LIKE YOU! THERE ARE BLUE STRINGS EVERYWHERE! EVERYONE IS RUNNING!” 

See, the reason for Error's hesitation is when someone was on the phone their DEF essentially dropped to zero. A cheap shot even in Fell worlds. But ... Error couldn’t stand the static any longer. He grit his teeth as he sent his deadly strings to the taller skeleton with the purpose of getting it over with quickly. He was basically the last one anyway. 

In an instant, a portal was opened into a white expanse - and it wasn't Error's Antivoid. It was the Omega timeline. The 'landscape' within was dotted with familiar homes and monsters and a few recognizable humans.

The sound of it caught Papyrus’ confused attention as Core Frisk was reveled with an offered outstretched hand. A Storyshift Chara exited, face flushed with enough determination to exit the portal. 

Errors strings were nearly at their target now as he scowled at the humans.

“WAIT. WHAT IS THAT? WHITE? HUMAN?" Papyrus was still attempting to tell his brother what he saw.

The Chara tackled Papyrus to the ground and they just barely managed to avoid his strings. Core Frisk would have no doubt done so themself had they been tangible enough outside the Omega timeline for something like physical contact.

The Voices were yelling. Those blind ‘spectators’ probably thought he had made the hit. They had even worse eyesight than Error sometimes. They were pretty oblivious at times - and oh so annoying.

The phone was flung from Papyrus’s hand, still admitting that ungodly sound.

Error grit his teeth but let them save the Papyrus. He didn't really understand why they go through the effort … there were hundreds just like him. Why even bother saving them all - it would just screw them over in the end.

The phone hit the ground with a clatter as the portal closed on the multiverses sanctuary. If he could have gone after them, he would have.

As much space as the Omega timeline took, Core Frisk had made a fairly strong firewall against Error with the help of Ink. It was completely out of his ability to enter. Same could be said for them and his Antivoid. 

Besides - if he ever did manage to get into the Omega timeline … with all those skeletons he’d have a pretty bad time with the inhabitants. Especially since he was the reason some of them were stuck there. Most were from abandoned genocide timelines that were just taking up space Error deleted. It wasn't Errors fault they could only usually exit via the AU they entered unless they were determined enough.

Error was quick to take out the remaining three inhabitants and they crumbled quickly to join the others in dust. Everything in the AU was silent.

"pap-s! -ease r-ond! say -omething!"

All except the static and the Voices that is.

His brow bone twitched. 

"sh- -rus listen -o me!" The Sans sounded desperate. "-u -eed to -all h-m! -elp will co-! it’ll be ok-! big -ro sa- it'll all be *hic* okay. h-h-lp -ill … will c-c-me …"

This couldn’t go on. Error picked up the phone and the static was lessened. Thank the stars!

"papy-us …?" The Sans asked hopeful.

Ah. Right. He still had one more monster to find. He began to trace the call.

"nO." Error stated. "pApYrUs Is GoNe."

ErRoR- BaD PoTatO-

Click.

Error was so startled by such a random comparison that he accidentally hung up.

He couldn’t help but reply to the absurd Voice.

“… DiD a VoIcE JuSt CaLl Me A pOtaTo??” He asked, confused. “… WhY????”

Though he knew that Voices weren’t all knowing and all seeing - the berry incident taught him that when they didn’t even notice Blue until he pointed him out. And boy they went crazy when he did.

Not the most observant bunch. Nor intelligible. 

You'll always be a gLiTcHy PoTaTo- No MatTeR WhAt MuLtIveRse YoUre In.

“... I'lL nEvEr UnDeRsTaNd hOw ThE vOiCeS tHinK oF tHiS sTuFf.” He pinched the bridge of his nasal cavity. “… I'vE gOt My HaNdS fUlL wItH JuSt tHe OnE mUlTiVeRsE, tHaNk YoU vErY mUcH .”

He wondered if they would understand the sarcasm. He knew there was the probability of a multi-multiverse. Fresh hinted at it enough that it grew annoying to think about. It just wasn’t his problem.

Why was he even entertaining them at this point? Why does he always, inevitably end up talking back? It was never worth it.

Its best that you dont understand anyway. Ignorance is Bliss, after all.

“YoU'rE rIgHt.” Error said.

He began tracing the Sans phone again. He had only gotten the most general of locations and it wasn’t looking too good. It was as if the Sans wasn’t world bound … how annoying. Why did that keep happening lately?

He kept talking as he tried to pick up a residual signal.

“I mAy Be InSaNe AnD hEaR vOiCeS, BuT aT lEaSt I'm NoT aN iDiOt ToO. sEe - I dOn'T sPeAk "StUpID." I jUsT sPeAkE tO tHeM.”

Maybe if he disses them they’ll go away? There’s always a first time for everything.

Never said you were an Idiot or Stupid, thats just you. Saying you don't speak "stupid" but speak to it, is just the same as you speaking like one. One of us, one of us!!

Alas, it was not meant to be. Why do they always get so defensive? And what was with the iRobot reference? … Or was that a Detroit Become Human reference? Was it a reference at all …? He rolled his eye lights. It didn’t really matter.

“OkAy, YoUr RiGhT.” He admitted to the air. “yOu NeVeR cAlLeD mE tHaT. dOeSn'T mEaN i'M nOt FrEe tO cAlL yOu OnE bEcAuSe ReAlLy? PoTaTo? ThAt's ThE bEsT yOu GoT?” Error snorted. “tHaT's HoNeStLy AdOrAblE.” 

He smirked as he looked up from his phone and gave a wink.

“... sTuPiDlY aDoRaBlE.” He gestured to the phone in his hands. “nOw - If YoU'lL eXcUsS mE - i HaVe A pHoNe To TrAcE aNd A sAnS tO fInD.”

He was slightly smiling as he started to focus on the phone. He should really start ignoring them now or they might make a habit of chatting like they were buddies. Ew.

Though maybe … not all the voices were that bad. He’d ignore them for now though. He was busy after all.

GAsp- Got something with potatoes?!? They're the best! Especially the Mojos!! YoU DarE DiSReSpEcT The PoTatOeS?! Hey! NotIce mE ScREEe- 

They then went on to make all manner of ungodly noises causing Errors socket to twitch and body to glitch.

He takes it back - they’re all annoying as fuck.

He rolled his eye light’s and with practice, went back to ignoring them all - shutting them out almost completely.

With the phone as evidence, Error had a pretty good idea why this world was so glitchy now.

The missing asset was a person. Sans_208 more accurately. 

In the case of a person, they will be cloned immediately upon departure. If they ever return they can just merge with their universe bound clone keeping knowledge from both 'selves.' However, if the clone also tries to leave, the clone will end up deleting and then the universe will start to glitch with each subsequent Reset or Load. A multiverse bug that was becoming more of a pain in Error’s behind as of late.

Error focused on tracking down this Sans. He was sick of doing this. It was annoying and tedious and cutting into his screen time.

When he found this Sans, he would have a bad time.

***

Bittytale_Copy38

***

Count didn’t know how long he was there after the phone cut out … was a lie. He was acutely aware of every second he sat there in numb despair.

27 minutes and 18 seconds he silently wept for his brother and stared blankly at the device. His eye lights were off on vacation somewhere happier - he wished he could join them.

Count forced himself to get up as he placed his phone back into his inventory. He opted for physically walking back to the front of the store, only pausing to open and close the door with blue magic.

He felt so heavy as he half saw everything with his lightless sockets.

5:27:39 AM.

He felt like he was forgetting something. When he got to the front and saw the Special Care display, he remembered.

He had almost forgotten to bribe the mystery bitty from Special Care … hey wait a minute - didn’t he look like one of Nightmares Gang? And why did Count take so long to notice? 

Maybe it was his thoughts finally making the connection because he hadn’t looked at the letter recently before now. That was probably it. 

He tried to feel something about the discovered resemblance to Horror the bitty had.

Maybe he could find out if someone worth a multiversal warning actually turned into a bitty as well, or if this world was just that freaky and coincidental? 

Though … Count wasn’t really interested in the answer anymore or … well … he wasn’t interested in anything that wasn’t sleeping at the moment. Even sleep didn’t sound so interesting even though he was bone tired.

Besides, it was probably just the freaky universe. It had copies of him and his bro - why not the multiverses most wanted?

His bro … 

He couldn’t remember the last time he had felt so numb to the world. Maybe the first time he saw Papyrus die. Maybe when it finally stuck into his thick skull it wouldn’t be the last … not by a long shot. Or maybe it was when he realized it had started to matter less to him when it did happen.

Had he not been with Determination, he would have Fallen Down a long time ago. Because even for as miserable he was … he still had the will to live. And ain't that something?

On autopilot, Count cut on top of the enclosure and brought out the apple slice - just as fresh as when it went in.

He forced his eye lights to relight before he gently patted on the mesh to get the bitty’s attention without alerting the rest. The bitty came out rubbing his sockets open. Count could see the hole in his skull in much more detail at this distance. He really feel anything significant at the sight.

His eye light looked fuzzy. He seemed to have just woken up.

“hiya.” Count greeted with a smirk, even as he was a little dead inside. “delivery for the holy man?”

The bitty smiled widely. Almost frighteningly. But then the smile tugged down and softened.

“... why so … glum …?” The bitty struggled to speak and it came out roughly.

He seemed … concerned?

“heh.” Count’s smile tightened. “‘m not glum, chum. what would give you that impression.”

The bitty came to several false starts as he considered his words before finally settling on ones that had Count magic running cold.

“... soul … doesn’t lie.” 

His red gaze seemed to see right through Count and all his lies.

***

(Authors Note: *giggling* Oh boy - what ever could it mean~? Sooo could have made you wait for it.)

***

Count froze.

“you … checked me?” Count asked, a little mad. At least he wasn’t as numb anymore.

The bitty put his hands up apologetically. 

“... not … my fault …” He pointed to the hole. “... never same … since …” It seemed like he was done talking he paused so long. 

Count wasn’t sure what to say to that. 

However the bitty continued, unbothered by the lack of response. He looking into the distance.

“... see things … and souls … ‘s distract … distracting … know … your not … a bitty … not … normally .”

While Count was no longer mad he could feel the sweat run down his skull in nervousness.

“... how much do you know?” Count asked, monotoned.

He seemed frustrated on having to talk more rather than with telling what he knew.

“... A lot …” He settled on. “... not every … everything … obvi … obviously … or wouldn’t … have asked.”

“And how long did you know about me?”

“… moment you … entered … store.” Another extra long pause. “... not my … business … soul’s too large … for a b … bitty.”

He just shrugged like that’s just the way things are and he’s just sort of accepted it. 

Count was kind of speechless. He knew from the beginning? And he hadn’t outed him to Bastard? What was his angle?

The bitty eyed the apple slice, then Count.

“... you wanna … talk about it?” He asked. “… name’s … rock.”

“... Count.”

"... i know …"

5:29:12 AM.

Count really shouldn’t - this guy just screamed sketchy. But … he could really use someone to talk to. The other bitties didn't seem to be stirring yet. Would it even matter if he did?

… Count ended up shorting into the display and venting about everything as Rock munched on his apple slice.

Flowey’s reset’s, the letter, the machine, the Destroyer - all of it.

He tried to keep it short - he really did - but it was nearly 6:30 before he could bring himself to stop. He probably would have gone on longer if he didn’t need to leave soon. The energetic types were likely going to wake up any minute if not already.

The bitty named Rock gave him a pat on his back in comfort. 

“... thanks for being my, heh, emotional rock.” Count said embarrassed at, heh, barring his soul to a stranger.

Rock laughed half heartedly at the pun.

“... no … problem.” He said patting his back again. “i’m a … good listener.”

His skull nodded slightly as if to agree with himself.

“i’m surprised you’re not freaking out about interdimensional travel or think i’m lying.”

“... soul doesn't lie …” He repeated. “not the … strangest … i’ve seen either …”

“... i’m not even going to ask.”

If a monster soul in a bitty wasn’t the strangest he couldn’t even guess what was.

“... good.” Rock said, smiling widely. “... ‘s a … long story … well … when i tell … tell it that … is.” He winked.

Count snorted as his mood improved. Not by much, but he could manage. He got up and stretched.

“thanks again, rock.” He waved. “good talk.”

He shortcut back into the other display and snuck back into the pile … by this point all three piles seemed to have merged. Happy seemed to shift a little as he entered - no doubt ready to get up at any moment.

6:30:43 AM.

Count let sleep claim him.

***

Rock watched as Count disappeared. He could see his soul reappear in the other display and join next to the numerous smaller ones.

He wished he had asked to join in the escape. All the coddling here was boring. He wanted to experience new things, go on an adventure. Something other than being stuck in this cramped display the rest of his life.

There was also that other thing he wanted to tell him when he had recounted his story but … 

“... it’ll … probably … be fine …”

Ever since Rock had the ‘accident’ he saw things a little differently. He saw souls for one - and with it, a person's stats. HP, ATK, DEF … LV, SPD, INV … things one wouldn’t normally see. And a constant distracting flow of flavor text. It was ridiculous really - even objects had something to offer. 

So when he had woken up and noticed Count out of the display, he immediately knew what was up.

*Going to do some research.

*Going for a midnight snack.

*Going for a visit.

It was the snack that caught his attention. If he was going anyway, then Rock wanted a piece of it - he was tired of the mush. If it also offered the opportunity to mess with him a little, that was just a side benefit. 

When Count came back he was going to act all intimidating, like he does with everyone at first. But then the flavor text caught up with him.

*Need’s a friend right now.

*Pretending nothing happened.

*He is not okay.

Well … the guy seemed to be having a hard enough time. And he had made a pretty good pun and brought him food. Rock decided to be that friend.

Count was still not a hundred percent when he left, but talking had seemed to help. What he needed now was time. Time heals all wounds … well … most wounds.

Rock traced the edge of the hole in his skull before wandering back to his sleeping quarters.

“... good night …” He said to his empty display.

***

(Athors Note: ... i kinda wanted to end it here because of flow but then i added this note to fix that? maybe? and continue the pattern? eh - we'll see.)

***

Anti_Void

***

Error should have left that AU before trying to trace the Sans. 

The squid had shown up not long after Error had started ignoring the voices again. It had been a relatively short fight for the two of them, but still. Annoying.

Luckily Ink wasn’t too interested in saving the already empty world and Error managed to erase it when he left. Unfortunately Ink kept talking during the whole fight like they were ‘friends.’ Error wanted to gag at the term. He has no friends. He’s the Destroyer. He can’t have friends. 

“Hey Glitchy.”

Not like anyone sane would want to be, so that’s just one less thing for him to worry about.

“Heeeeey.”

All the more evidence there’s something not right with Blue - er … Underswap Sans 337.

“Hellooo~” 

And even if he did have friends - which he didn’t - they wouldn’t stay friends long. One day he’d be forced to destroy their world and then what? They’d turn on him.

"Howdy!"

Friends would be a hassle anyway. Always wanting to 'talk' and 'do things' together. Gross.

“Are you even listening, you idiot!?”

“wHaT dO yOu WaNt, FrEaK.” Error snarled at the flower interrupting his inner monologue.

Flowey's expression brightened at having caught his attention.

“I’m bored. And uncomfortable.” He whined from the 'floor' of the white void. “There’s no soil here and my roots feel naked.”

“ThErE’s No NoThInG hErE.” Error said factually. Not even time truly existed here.

He turned back to the phone. He had managed to narrow the location of the Sans phone to Bittytale_Copy38 and was trying to get it down to at least a city. Error was familiar with the AU and was really hoping the Sans hadn't caused a scene because Resets weren't a thing there. Any damage would be permanent and Error kinda like the AU - Fresh would refuse to bother him there.

“That’s not the point." Flowey said exasperated. "I want you to do something about it.”

Error gave him a too wide grin.

“i CaN EnD yOu NoW rAtHeR tHaN aFtEr YoUr SaNs?” He offered.

“HA! I’d just Reset and-”

It was Error’s turn to laugh.

“YoU jUsT dOn’T gEt It, Do YoO? YoUr WoRlD iS gOnE aNd YoUr DeTeRmInAtIoN wOn'T bE eNoUgH tO bRiNg It BaCk.” He pointed up. “ThE oNlY tHiNg StRoNg EnOuGh FoR tHaT iS a DeTeRmInEd HuMaN sOuL. sEe AnY fLoWeY’s In My CoLlEcTiOn? No? PrEcIsElY. If YoU hAvEn’T gUeSsEd YeT, i’Ve DoNe ThIs BeFoRe.”

“T-then, that means …” The flower didn’t look so smug.

“No MoRe ReSeTs.” Error smiled manically. “OnLy ReAsoN yOu'Re StILl AlIvE iS i’M bUsY … bUt ThAt CaN cHaNgE iF yOu DoN’t ShUt Up.” Then he mumbled. “ThE vOiCeS aRe BaD eNoUgH.”

The flower trembled realizing there were no do overs - that one last death would be permanent. 

Error went back to the phone even as the Voices started calling him rude and telling him to be kinder to Flowey. Some said they should try and be friends. 

A couple even insisted they were best friends already.

“ShUt Up !!!”

“I didn’t say anything!” Flowey yelled in fear.

“NoT yOu !”

Error angrily huffed and opened a portal from his beanbag chair. From it he grabbed a flower pot. He set it down next to Flowey before roughly shoving him into it.

Error looked to the ceiling and yelled back at the Voices.

“I hOpE yOuR fUcKiNg HaPpY!”

Flowey had a blank expression. Error pointed at him.

“NoT. a. WoRd.”

The flower was quiet and Error finally narrowed the signal down to Ebott City. At least he knew it well. Maybe he’d stop by one of the bitty shops to destress. Show them his member card, other papers and pay them for their time.

The only thing that could have made the day worse would be a surprise visit from Fresh.

Speaking of …

“Yo Error bro!” Came a familiar voice from the distant reaches of the antivoid.

Error’s eye lights went out as he tensed. He did not want to deal with Fresh right now. Good thing he was headed to a Bittytale.

“W-what was that?” Flowey asked, concerned with how Error reacted.

“My CuE tO lEaVe.”

The flower won't stay bored for long with that parasite keeping him company.

Quickly, Error opened a portal to Ebott City in Bittytale_Copy38 and practically jumped through in his haste to escape. And what luck. Error landed right in front of a bitty store. He pulled out his forged paperwork. It seemed to be closed for Noon but that wouldn’t be a problem with a little extra G - 

-No Bones About It.

Chapter Text

Happy was the first bitty to wake up when Kyle entered the shop, which was not unusual, as he was a notoriously light sleeper. In fact, this would be the second time he had woken up this morning. The first time had been more … informative.

During last night, sometime before the sun had risen, Happy had been awoken when Comet slapped him in the face in his sleep. How rude! He didn’t even have the decency to wake up and apologize! Though Happy forgave him anyway because he is such a cool dude. 

While Happy was known for his light sleeping habits, Comet was quite the opposite! A notoriously heavy sleeper! As such, it was no surprise the action did not rouse the smoll.

He huffed and Candy cracked a socket for a moment before snoring.

Happy had tried to follow the other skeleton's example and get back to sleep for a few minutes. However, it proved a practice in vain. Before long Happy was getting up and stretching, hoping a small walk would tire him back out. 

Now standing he gave the pile a critical eye(socket). He noticed that all the bitty piles - including him and Comet - had at some point, ended up in one pile … which was odd. He tilted his skull. Unless there was a great imbalance of soul energy’s and they had all moved in their sleep to compensate …?

The Papy shrugged before noticing there was a missing skeleton and blinking in surprise. Oh no! Was someone missing out on the benefits of such a spectacular bitty pile!?

He went over the faces once more to see who it was. Comet, Kid, Candy, Pocky, Napoleon, Raspberry, Punz, Hoods were all present … but no Count. Seeing as it was Count that appeared to be missing, he paused to consider, tilting his head the other way. 

The Sansy had already shown that he preferred to sleep alone throughout the day. Perhaps he was shy about a pile with strangers …? Some bitties were like that, he supposed - especially older bitties. When Count had settled with his new friends for the night - albeit awkwardly - Happy had been relieved.  But apparently he snuck away at some point! How absurd! It was like Count didn’t even care about the semi-sustainable soul energy levels such a large pile had to offer! 

He froze.

… wait … not caring about soul energy benefits … a soul energy imbalance large enough for everyone to move in their sleep … no - not everyone. He now noticed that everyone had moved to where the Sansy had been. 

He squinted.

Was … Count the cause of the extra soul energy …?

Nyeh - that was ridiculous. Shaking his head, as he made to search for the bitty responsible for such an absurd thought. A bitty couldn’t possibly have and hide that much soul energy … right?

Happy quietly made his way to the tunnel that the bitty appeared to prefer, only to find it empty. Hmm. This was quite the puzzle! One he would no doubt puzzle out. 

“Nyeh heh heh.” He laughed quietly at his internal pun, exiting the tunnel.

 It was no use worrying over something he didn’t know … yet. It was like a game! Games weren’t meant to be worrying. They were fun! And Happy was the best at fun.

Movement caught his attention from the corner of his socket. Movement that was coming from outside of the display. He ducked back into the tunnel, not at all startled at how dark it was where the mysterious movement he had been seen. Cautiously, Happy poked his head out to see what had been moving. 

His eye lights boggled, befuddled and incredulous, as he saw the mysterious shadow was of none other than Count! But he seemed … not happy. Happy furrowed his sockets, concerned and confused.

As the tiny skeleton approached from the shadows of the back hall, Happy could see more.

Count’s eye sockets seemed hollow without their usual glow, his expression pinched in a grimace that seemed so sad at the same time. His clothes appeared disheveled and his shoulders sunk into his small frame with hands buried deep in pockets. 

It made Happy sad to see him like this - to see anyone so … devoid of Hope. 

Count paused. For a moment Happy thought he had been spotted, but that wasn’t it. Following his line of sight, Happy deducted that it was the Special Care display that had caught his attention. Count’s face was worryingly blank.

He never noticed Happy watching. 

After the brief pause, Count shortcut to the top of the other display and conjured an apple slice from the air.

Happy’s jaw dropped. 

This was … that was … he had no idea he could do that! It seemed Count had more than a few tricks up his sleeve. 

Count smiled into the enclosure when the injured bitty came out. As if he wasn’t a shambling mess just moments before gaining his attention. He began chatting with the scary looking bitty - who was probably very nice and nothing to worry about!

Happy was lost in his thoughts when Count shortcut directly into the other display, surprising Happy yet again.

Perhaps the imbalance of soul energy was because of this strange new Sansy that had been left on their doorstep. It certainly seemed the escape was a lot more likely to succeed if they had a Sansy capable of cutting between matter like it wasn’t there. 

But would Count be okay after that?

For the first time, Happy was indecisive about his choice. He didn’t mind being a pet - he really didn’t! But what of the ones who leave? Would they be okay without someone there to wake them up in the mornings? Someone to be there to believe in them and tell them they can do it? Keeping morel up was a very important job - one he was sure they would not take quite as seriously as he! 

Even with Kid, they would surely be lacking that boost of positivity them energetic types are known for. Especially with Kids little … problem. Happy had seen the way his confidence wanes and how somedays his smile strains. 

Kid has been such a kind friend despite the insecurities he tries to hide. How could Happy leave a friend to suffer alone? He wouldn’t be a very good friend at all if he did that! One day he would get Kid back to his Baby Blue confidence he must have once had! And now he would do his best to help Count too!

Because Happy wanted to be there to believe in them all. Even when they couldn’t believe in themselves.

He hoped Comet would agree to come too. The more the merrier, nyeh heh heh!

Happy had sat there for some time in his thoughts. Now coming to a decision he went back to the pile in an attempt to sleep even a few minutes more before the new day. 

All this problem solving must have tired him out. He managed to fall asleep the moment he got comfortable.

***

“WAKE UP! BREAKFAST WILL BE SERVED SOON!”

Count grumbled in his sleepy state. He wasn’t ready to wake up - it felt like he had pulled an all nighter on the machine again.

“... five more minutes paps.” Count mumbled out.

He rolled over and cuddled closer to what he assumed was his ball of sheets. It felt a little off but he ignored that in his sleepy daze. 

“DON’T BE LIKE THAT COUNT! IT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE DAY!”

Wait - why had Papyrus called him Count? Wasn’t that his nickname from -?

He barely opened his eye sockets to look around, still pretty out of it from drowsiness. He was in the bitty display and there was sunlight streaming in from the street. He remembered now.

Papyrus was dead. And his world was gone. 

The Destroyer had done it … and Count wasn’t there to stop him.

Heaviness hit him at the loss. Now definitely didn’t want to wake up. He buried his head deeper into what he was snuggling - wait - what was he snuggling … ?

He tilted his skull back to get a better look. It was one of the Lil’ Bro’s. Embarrassed, he pushed himself away only to bump into Punz with his back. He could see Pocky and the other Lil’ Bro were also present. 

He was surrounded and outnumbered.

Right, bitty piles … that was a thing, he thought blandly. It was strangely comfortable. Count chalked it up to technically being a bitty now. Then again he could fall asleep pretty much anywhere before as well … 

“you heard ‘em.” Pocky said, not bothering to open his eyes. “five more minutes.”

“NO! NO MORE MINUTES!” The Papy named Happy exclaimed, stomping his foot impatiently. “YOU NEED TO BE AWAKE FOR BREAKFAST!”

“aw papy.” Punz said. “it’s nap the time for this yet.”

“yeah.” One Lil’ Bro added. “why can’t we sleep going.”

Pocky interjected. “i think it can wake a bit, don't you?”

The barest hint of a smile traced Count's face. “bed -er go join the rest. you know we can do this with our eyes closed.”

“OH! MY GOD!” Happy replied indignant, then pointing at them accusatively. “NO! WE ARE NOT DOING THIS AGAIN!” Happy tossed his hands up in exasperation as he stormed off with the flair of a Papyrus.

“... we should probably get up for reals though.” Punz said, not moving an inch. 

The energetic types appeared to be mostly awake and were chatting by the glass. He could see the other display doing similar. 

Count yawned. He couldn’t have gotten more than an hour of sleep after leaving Rock. Guess he would nap all day again … not like there was much reason to get up. 

The Lil’ Bro that Count had clung to got up and stretched, humming. “haven’t been this rested in a while.” He turned to Punz as he put hands in his pockets. “fancy a pre meal walk? seeing as you wanted to get up-” He smirked. “-for reals.”

Punz sighed replying unenthusiastically. “yeah, okay. sounds hood.”

The taller helped the smaller to his feet. He watched them walk away as they exchanged puns and it wasn’t long before they were out of hearing distance.

Count remained with Pocky and who he assumed was Candy due to the pun. He checked his watch.

7:46:57 AM.

Suddenly he felt a weight on his lap. He looked past his watch and saw a pair of tiny relaxed white eye lights. Candy had propped his head - with hands behind - onto Counts lap.

“can i help you?” Count asked.

“ya seem a little down.” He replied. “wanna talk about it?”

How the heck would he know? They just woke up! Count’s brow bone twitched.

“eh.” Count put his watch away, avoiding eye contact. “i’ll sleep it off. it’s nothing serious.” 

He was already getting annoyed. Lack of sleep always left him more irritable than usual and he seriously didn’t want to have a heavy discussion first thing. 

“you sure about that?” This time it was Pocky who spoke, also prying. He was keeping lookout, like usual. Count noticed his gaze shifted to Kid more often than not.

Count balled his phalanges into the fabric of his sweater. He wished he could be in his regular clothes.

“listen pal.” Candy said, pressing even more. “i’m pretty good at guessing when something’s wrong. so either you speak up or it’s going to build up -”

Count glared at Candy to make himself clear he was ending this conversation.

“i.   d o n’ t   w a n t.   t o   t a l k   a b o u t   i t.” 

Not again. Not so soon at the very least. 

He just wanted to sleep.

“... fine.” He didn’t look happy, but relented. “at least eat breakfast.” 

Candy got up and began walking to Kid, hands returning behind his skull.

Pocky looked at Count before sighing and laying back down with his back to Count. 

Count pinched his nasal bridge, already regretting his little outburst. But if Candy were really as good at reading people as he said, then he should have seen it coming.

This was going to be a long day. After breakfast, Count was going to be sure to get some much needed rest.

He had some bitties to bust out tonight.

***

(Author's Note: And now to see what the rest of the display is up to uwu - bunch of POV swaps incoming)

***

“so you wanted to say somethin’?” Punz asked, hand in his pockets as he followed Hoods.  “you’re not one for extra exercise … unless you really are well rested?”

He did look a lot less tired then he usually would. Hoods wasn’t slouching as much as he usually did and he actually seemed to be enjoying the small walk. The bags under his socket were noticeably reduced as well. Huh.

“strangely enough, i feel fine.” He answered with a shrug before his face turned serious. “but that’s not what i wanted to talk about. not entirely. it’s about … count.” Hoods shifted awkwardly. 

“... what about him?” Punz asked cautiously. 

He still remembers the display of magic pressure from the day before. Perhaps that had something to do with Candy’s new found energy? They were sleeping rather close together last night. Even Punz kinda felt energized and couldn’t stop himself from tapping out a beat with his phalanges and foot due to the pent up energy.

He absently fantasized about parkouring/dancing around the display like a sugar rushed Baby Blue. The platforms would be perfect for flips.

“do you really … think he could do it?” Candy asked seriously, pulling Punz from his thoughts.

“the escape? yeah.” Puz looked away. “i do … whether that’s a good thing remains to be seen.”

They walked in silence for a bit, lost in their musings. 

“i think i wanna join.” Candy said, interrupting the silence. He rubbed the back of his neck anxiously. “after last night, i think i realized something - count’s stats don’t always … add up.”

So he had noticed too. There was definitely something about that bitty that made him different. Perhaps even to the point of being a printing error like Punz and, as he now knew, Kid.

“definitely a number of things off with him.” Punz agreed, tone serious despite the puns. “and as much as i hate to admit it after all this time arguing the counter points … same.” He winked. “a little experience on the team can only help.”

And if it would prevent a repeat of his last owner, Punz was all for it. 

He looked at the yellow tag on his shoulder, and sent a silent apology to the person who would likely not be getting a refund with Kyle on the desk. It was for the better that they didn’t end up with him and risk burglars if he messed up.

Punz blinked as he saw Kyle begin to head over to their display with food. It would probably be something fruity, oaty or both.

He missed ketchup soaked eggs and bacon for breakfast.

***

After breakfast, Happy saw Count return to his preferred napping tunnel. It was predictable, given he probably had not got much sleep. 

At least he managed to eat something, much to his relief. He had been feeling guilty about waking him, but it was the most important meal of the day! And after that tired look he had seen last night, he could tell Count would be needing the energy.

Happy had pulled Comet to the side when the dishes were removed. He old him of what he had discovered last night and his new thoughts about joining the escape.

“SO YOU THINK IT WOULD BE BEST TO STAY WITH THEM?” Comet asked, mostly thinking out loud as he tapped his jaw.

“YES. I … I’D BE WORRIED HOW THEY'D HANDLE THEMSELVES.” Happy admitted, despite the question being rhetorical. 

And he would worry! Which is why he brought this to Comets attention.

Comet was always better at deciding if something was the smart thing as well as the right thing. Unlike Happy who became indecisive with such big decisions. Happy was glad he had a friend like Comet to idea swap with. 

Comet seemed to think it over with more seriousness in his expression then he would normally exhibit with others. Coming to a decision Comet nodded and smiled up to Happy with blue stars in his eyes.

“I THINK YOU ARE RIGHT. IT SEEMS LIKE THE RIGHT THING TO DO.” He said cheerfully. “I WILL SUPPORT AND JOIN YOU IN THIS MISSION FRIEND.”

Happy was happy. He had such a cool skeleton as a friend.

Little did he know, Comet mirrored the thought about his just as cool friend.

Done with their serious chat, they headed over to Kid who was hanging out with Candy. Candy made a pun and Kid held back a laugh. Happy took it upon himself to lift Kid away from his ‘corrupting puns,’ and Comet hoped on as well.

In the end, Happy was flexing with two Baby Blues sitting on each arm, who were also flexing. Candy watched in amusement as the store opened.

“so cool.” Candy said, amused.

They all beamed.

***

Sitting on the other side of the display, both Raspberry and Napoleon were holding a meeting between the two of them. There wasn’t even that many insults being made as they discussed the escape faction and their plan.

First, Punz had made a claim to the possibility of success. And now, just moments before, Happy and Comet had approached Raspberry with their decision to join the ranks as well.

Seeing where this was inevitably headed, Raspberry took it upon himself to convince Napoleon to also join. Now that the escape faction was more than just a few bitties gathering wishful thinkers and day dreamers and actually had a plan to do something now, Raspberry had no more reason to deny his presence in the group any longer.

The only ones that were not officially part of the escape faction at this point were himself (he would bring it up before they left), Napoleon, Hoods and Punz. But judging by the looks Punz and Hoods shot toward the tunnel where Count was lazing from time to time, it was clear that by the time a head count came about there would only be one skeleton too proud to join without the proper encouragement.

Napoleon.

And it probably wouldn’t be the wisest to leave his type alone with Kyle when the rest go missing. It would likely be a tempting situation for the human when he could simply say they had all escaped. His coworker was still off sick and wouldn’t be able to dispute the claim. Napoleon was one of the bitties that was unaware of the humans' plotting ways.

And despite all claims to the counter, Raspberry was well aware the other bitty did not enjoy spending his time alone. 

So Raspberry had gently directed the conversation in a way he knew would at least have him considering it, if only due to that very same pride.

Unlike Napoleon, Raspberry was aware of this exploit the two of them shared. And if it meant abusing this knowledge to keep his … ally … from making a rash decision to spite everyone in the moment to his own detriment, then he would. He was just driving the point home at this point.

“HMPH. EXCELLENT POINT RASPBERRY.” Napoleon relented, arms crossed face in thought. “THOSE IMBECILES WOULD BE AT A COMPLETE LOSS WITHOUT US.”

Perhaps stating that the conversation went with few insults was partially inaccurate - it went with few insults toward each other. They were prideful bitties and managed to ‘tolerate’ each other. One would be hard pressed to get them to admit they were friends rather than simple ‘allies.’

“PRECISELY.” Raspberry said. He placed his hands on his hips. “THEY HAD NOT EVEN ACCOUNTED FOR FOOD GATHERING! HOW INCOMPITANT! THEY COULD USE BITTIES OF OUR STANDARD TO KEEP THING CLEAN AND ORDERLY.”

Napoleon had begun nodding along by this point. He did like things clean and orderly. Raspberry began to smile as Napoleon started arguing the points to himself.

“AND PUNZ HIMSELF HAD ADMITTED THAT HE THOUGHT IT POSSIBLE.” Napoleon stroked his chin bone, red eye lights flashing. “IF ONE OF HIS RESOURCEFULNESS IS WILLING TO ADMIT TO THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCCESS … PERHAPS THE CHANCES AREN’T AS UNFAVORABLE AS PREVIOUSLY PREDICTED.”

Raspberry was thankful that Punz had said as much. Having Napoleon's respect meant that his opinion held weight and made convincing him that much easier.

Raspberry smiled as he looked Napoleon over with a critical eye. He was glad that he would be accompanied by his reliable ally. It just wouldn’t be the same without someone to gripe about the others.

***

A few hours later, Kid finally confronted Candy about the worried glances he kept directing toward the tunnel where Count slept ever since breakfast.

When Candy told him what happened, Kid understood why. Candy was pretty good at knowing when something was wrong - knowing how to confront the person about it without knowing them well? That wasn’t his strong suit.

“SO HE WOULDN’T SAY?” Kid asked Candy.

It didn’t surprise him. Count didn’t seem the type to talk until he was ready and of course Candy's direct approach would fail. But hopefully it wasn’t anything they needed to know immediately.

Looking around the display, Kid could see Pocky was still watching them from afar - watching Kid specifically. At the moment he was pretending to nap under the heating lamp. Kid tried not to let it bother him. Candy had been the same way at first after learning of his secret. It was both a relief and an annoyance all at once, but it was bearable.

“not really … he really didn’t seem up to it.” Candy said with a shrug. “decided it’s best to leave it be for now. seems like he’s got kind of a temper when sleep deprived.”

“BUT DIDN’T HE JUST WAKE UP?” Kid asked.

“‘m pretty sure he snuck out last night to do something.” Candy admitted, deceptively relaxed. “I woke up briefly and couldn’t sense him. who knows how much sleep he actually got.”

Kid blinked. That was … surprising. He quickly double checked something.

“DOESN’T YOUR RANGE OF PERCEPTION COVER THE WHOLE DISPLAY?”

“yup.” Candy said, popping the ‘p.’

“THAN THAT WOULD MEAN-” His sockets widened.

“he somehow left the display, yeah.” Candy’s face grew serious. “and whatever he saw ruffled him in one way or another.”

This was concerning. Kid wondered what he could have seen and how much it would affect them and Count.

“... HOPEFULLY THIS DOES NOT AFFECT THE ESCAPE.”

“yeah …” Candy looked to the tunnel again. “hopefully.” 

The two separated shortly after the silence that fell on them to do their own things, worrying about Count.

At one point Kid saw a human kid run from the Special Care display with a small scream. Looking at the display Kids eye lights locked with the single red one already looking at him. A shiver ran down his spine. The injured bitty smiled at him creepily, waving his phalanges slowly.

Hesitantly, Kid waved back and the other bitty smiled even wider.

***

After another couple of hours, Count was woken up by being roughly shaken by skeletal hands. It was enough to jostle his watch from under his shirt even, now displayed in clear view on his white t-shirt.

The shaking was accompanied by rude yelling furthering Counts confusion. 

“WAKE UP YOU SAD SACK! BREAKFAST IS BEING SERVED FIVE MINUTES HENCE.”

Count blinked up into red eye lights disoriented as he absently picked up his watch and checked the time.

11:55:58 AM.

“AND HIDE AWAY THAT CONTRABAND YOU HEATHEN!” The bitty leaned back and crossed his arms, glaring pointedly at the time piece. His foot tapped impatiently. “I HAVE HALF A MIND TO CONFISCATE IT AND INFORM KYLE OF ITS EXISTENCE.”

Count was pretty sure it was an empty threat by the way he looked away during the threat part. He already didn't like this skeleton regardless, returning the glare with a rather deadpan expression of his own.

The rude bitties name escaped Count's recollection. Perhaps he hadn’t said it? Might as well ask.

“sorry but … have we been introduced yet?” 

Count remembered meeting the sharp-sans with purple eyes - Raspberry - this was clearly someone different. Ruder even, which was a surprise.

“OF COURSE NOT YOU DITHERING FOOL. I AM THE NEFARIOUS CHIEF NAPOLEON!” He stuck his nose hole up disapprovingly. “THAT MY REPUTATION WAS NOT THE FIRST YOU BROUGHT TO YOUR AWARENESS IS YET ANOTHER THING ALLUDING TO YOUR INCOMPETENCE.”

“what reputation?” Count muttered, uninterested.

Rather than answer, Napoleon turned on his heel. “FOUR MINUTES SANSY!” He walked out of the tunnel with his head held high.

“... okay then. that happened.” He shrugged off the encounter. Wasn’t the weirdest thing to ever happen to him.

He took his time getting up and stretching before he exited the tunnel with a lazy gait. 

Count glanced out of the display and saw the sign was flipped to closed and the Factory Fresh display was already getting their portions of flavored mush. Smelled like hamburger. He walked over to the platform he had chosen as his spot to wait for food.

Seems Bastard was on time that day for lunch at the very least, if a bit grouchier than usual. Maybe a customer complained or something.

Count settled on his spot and it wasn’t a long wait for food to arrive. 

More head pats, more mush. It was, unsurprisingly by the smell, hamburger flavored. A few french fries were mixed in. He took his bowl and sat alone as he picked at his food with his spoon. He wasn’t very hungry.

“still moping i see.” Candy said from behind.

Count shrugged. He was used to feeling hopeless. 

“still don’t wanna talk about it yet but …” Count admitted, hesitantly. “maybe after the store closes. you guys deserve to know my story before the break out. at least the relevant bits.”

He would settle for more half-truths.

Count took a bite of the mush. It could use some ketchup. Breakfast had been a sort of fruit smoothie with oats mixed in that was actually fairly pleasant. Unfortunately it didn’t come with coffee.

“alright. if you think you’re up for it-”

They were interrupted by the sound of the store door opening with a jingle. 

But …  wasn’t the place closed?

They both exchanged confused glances before looking at the figure that had entered.

Count froze at the sight of the monster. Black bones, blue tear-like marks running down from his red sockets, yellow teeth and glitching physique that was disorienting to behold.

“I’m sorry sir.” Kyle said annoyed. “We’re closed right no-”

“I HaVe PaPeRwOrK fOr ThAt.” The glitched figure replied, holding up a card, some papers and a bag full of G from the sound of it.

Count’s breath hitched in fear.

He knew that voice. That was the voice that said his brother was gone. 

The Destroyer was here.

Chapter Text

***

Underfell_Copy345

***

I decided it was time to throw my pov into the mix. A little early, but I know you love me <3 

Who am I? Why it’s yo boi Freshy, in da house dawg! I know you brosephs wanna know how things play out with Error brah, but I say you all need to learn some patience mah dudes. This is Fresh time now!

Where to begin? Ah, yes. My troubles of woe might interest you. It’s as good a start as any.

See, over the last few months of Inky-dink having sent out that hella unrad letter, my relationship with the bad Sans has become a little … strained.

But that’s bound to happen since I tried to eat their souls - admittedly, not my smartest moment but I was having a hard time finding a new host and well, one thing led to another and I was hoping they would let their guard down. They didn’t.

Tried with Error. Failed and got yeeted out of there by a not so happy glitch pal.

Like c’mon bros, I was hungry. Cut a parasite some slack and lend him your soul uwu?

Anyway, I blacked out from the hunger shortly after and woke up in a decimated Underfell AU not starving to death, residents of Snowdin missing and a sharp looking new host to boot. Pretty sure I knew what happened there but I can’t say I wouldn’t do it again if hungry enough. Glad I don’t remember - removing eyeballs is not a pleasant sensation - which is why I prefer Sans the skeleton as a primary host.

I shrugged at the dust piles. Nothing a Reset can’t fix. 

And if you're wondering about my radical duds, they show up automatically bro. Part of my list of passive skills - like my cencering ability. There’s no real ‘off’ for it, not that I mind.

I pulled a mean-cream out of the Sans’ Inventory and began munching on it with sharper than preferred teeth as I surveyed the destruction and planned my next step. I probably have about a month before the current host dusts, so I should be good to go. Undertale Sans always lasted at least two but their on high alert. Maybe I should try for an Outer next time seeing as their basically the same?

Wish I had thought of that earlier.

Now don’t go thinking I don’t care if the host's dust - I do. It’s unfortunate that I haven’t been able to switch them out as often as needed to keep them healthy. I can’t reuse them as easily if they die and it upsets their brothers - I’m actually on pretty good terms with a few. 

Unfortunately I have no clue where my previous host was due to the black out and without returning the dust to their universe it was more likely to glitch due to a missing asset - but you bros know about that already.

I sighed and tossed the mean-cream wrapper behind me, not even bothering to read it. I blame the LV in the soul. Normally I’m not one to litter … a Reset would fix it anyway.

Time to visit Error I guess and give him the heads up.

Now that I wasn’t starving I wouldn’t try to possess him again. He never took that well. Time for surprise apology hugs!

I gave the human hiding out of sight in the underbrush finger guns and called out.

"Sorry bro! I'll be commandeering this skelebro for a bit. Might as well Reset kiddo. This timelines a bust - majorly unrad of me, I know." I put my hands in my pockets and look into the distance at the skeleton brothers house. "Also, don't mention me to Sans 2. He'll just majorly bug out knowin' I was by. Later!"

I waved goodbye to the probably traumatized pacifist Frisk and Flowey and Poofed into the Antivoid.

The infinite expanse of white and blue strings was a familiar sight … but no Error in view. 

“Yo Error bro!” I called. 

When no ‘go away’ came out to help locate the glitch, I just picked a random direction. Knowing how this works, I’d probably stumble upon him or something of interest at some point.

Speaking of, it didn’t take long to find his usual spot. Instead of Error, there was someone else.

In the middle of the Antivoid a Flowey in a pot grumpily glared in the distance next to a blue bean bag. I wasn’t a big fan of Flowey's. They were rude and the whole soulless thing was unuseful … and a reminder of my situation. 

“Yo wazzup muh totes rad little flower bro! Howzzit goin’?”

The flower turned around startled.

“W-what? Who are you?”

“Just your friendly neighborhood Fresh-boi. At your radtastic service.” I squatted down to get on the flower’s level, still smiling. “Care ta tell me what you're doin’ here bud?”

Flowey shivered. Probably because of the unfresh teeth. Yeah, that’s it.

*fresh is scary potato

You got that right dawg. Looking above the flower I let my sunglasses go out and smile wide seeing your username.

Flowey's eyes widen and he whips his head around to see nothing.

*aaaaa

You can't see it, but I am rolling my one eye at you - you know, the one on my real body? I let my sunglasses return to their YOLOing.

Lowercase screaming. Nice. That be some unradical reaction home-slice. I know ya'll up an' be thinking I can't get you passed that screen and Wall o' yours - and you'd be right broseph. 

F o r    n o w. 

Nice username btw. 

Flowey turned back to me confused as I gave you some sweet finger guns.

I looked back at him knowing there were no more askers. He had a very distinct WTF face.

“It’s just a prank bro.” I smirked.

Flowey didn’t look amused.

“ You're what the glitchy trash bag was running from?”

I exaggeratedly placed my hands to my mouth and gasped. My sunglasses were all exclamation points.

“Error ran away from lil’ ol’ me? Owch bro.” Hand to sternum, other hand sporting a peace sign, low head shake. “Fatality man.” I stood up and wandered a few steps away, hands behind my skull. “Though this rad skelebro shouldn’t be surprised after what went down last time.”

“What happened last time?”

I paused and turned to look over my shoulder at the flower and smiled. Flowey suddenly shivered as I walked back over.

“Nothin’ you need to worry about lil' bro-bud.” I pause in front of Errors bean bag. “Now let’s see where Error ran off to~” 

Opening a portal revealed Error entering a bitty shop. I immediately close the portal and sit down on the bean bag turning my attention to Flowey.

No way I was going anywhere near those things brosephs - even if the plot demanded it sooner or later.

Besides, Error probably didn’t want to come back to a glitched out Flowey. He was going to owe me one.

“So my flowery friend. What brings you here?” I asked civilly.

I'm not just a scary parasite you know. I'm actually pretty good compony when the mood strikes if I do say so myself - I'm all that and a bag of chips!

Flowey looked to where the portal was then to me like he wanted to ask why I didn’t follow, but decided against it.

You’d probably find this next small talk stuff boring. I'll send you radical dudes over to Error.

***

Bittytale_Copy38

***

Error closed the portal to the Antivoid as he took in the bitty shop in front of him, paperwork and G in hand.

He was in an alley and there was a busy street between him and the store.

The Voices perked up at the sight. Some aweing and cooing while others … 

*Steal! Steal! Steal the bitties! Steal them! Crime! Crime! Crime! Become a dirty crime boy! Kill Kyle! BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD!

Error tried to outright ignore such a violent Voice. He get's enough violence and crime from his job. The only thing he's interested in stealing at the moment is a chocolate bar ... okay maybe more than one.

Petty crime could wait though.

Who was Kyle? He shook his head.

Error double checked he had the right documents using his glasses. 

Should he pose as a surprise inspector or as part of a therapy program today? Hmm. He decided on the therapy program. They actually let the bitties out for that.

*Aw damn- Here comes Error, prepared with illegal documents and a buttload of gold. QuIck!! EVERYonE Be CuTe!! AnD WhEn ThE MoMenT AppeArs, CuDdLe And HUg Him UnTil He's jUst A GlItchY pUdDle-

Error casually scratches his cheekbone with his middle finger. He wasn’t planning a full crash today, thank you very much. Bitties and kids didn’t cause him to glitch as much, probably because of the minimal threat level, but he would still need to be careful about his anxiety. 

Most contact he’s had at once and not fully crashed was getting hugs from a Swap Frisk or Chara after giving them dolls.

It still pushed his limits but he was getting better … maybe. It was hard to tell.

He put his glasses and inspector papers away. His name on the paper may be forged onto it, but the therapy program really existed in this universe. Regardless of whether it worked with reducing haptophobia the bitties were pretty cute, even if they resembled those that had hurt him. 

Tiny things were always kinda cute for some unknowable reason - like those small shampoos at motels he’s heard of! He’s never been to a motel before though. Stars knows he doesn’t get enough down time with his job to expirance most 'normal' things.

Error doesn't think there's anything wrong with a break every once in a while. A side stop before hunting down the anomaly can't hurt after the day he's had - especially if it means ditching Fresh.

Walking out of the alley, he waited for traffic to lighten up a little before he attempted to cross the street to the store. He could just walk to the crosswalk but meh. It’s not like he’d die if he was hit by a car while jaywalking (experience) and one of the Voices did request crime. He smirked at technically complying.

*Error can be very precious at times, and its very cherisable when it happens UwU

His smirk turned into more of a pout. He isn’t sure if the Voice was directing it at him or another Voice, but either way, Error thinks the voice is weird for calling the Destroyer 'precious' after he just murdered a universe - where did they think the G came from?

He was a murderer. He would never understand where the pity was coming from other than it was a job he didn’t like all that much. 

He killed people. A lot of people. Even if it was to keep the multiverse from collapsing, he still did it.

*If its for a good cause, then there are no problems with that. Error will always a be a Precious- like all the other bad sanses- actually, all the sanses in general-

Oh - it's one of those voices. The ones that are 'on our side.' Error rolls his eye lights ... better than the blood thirsty or the goody-two-shoes ones.

Something felt off about the Voice but Error tried to ignore it. 

He finally got frustrated waiting for traffic to lighten up. He sighed and stepped forward.

Error was just missed by a blurry car. A hazard of not using his glasses all the time, but he wasn’t exactly a fan of broadcasting his weakness. Besides, he’s used to it and had plenty of practice dodging.

“i’M wAlKiN’ hErE!” 

Error gestured rudely at the car before turning to the front of the store. He made it across in one piece. 

*Hey! I dont take any sides! Im a neutral!! ..... I think-

He did his best to pat out some of the dust in his clothes before entering the store with a bell chiming.

Neutral - just another term for morally ambiguous. Error blinked as he just realized he hasn't been responding verbally to the Voice and is still somehow holding this conversation. 

A-are they reading his mind now!? Is nOtHiNg private anymore !? 

He glares at the ceiling.

Now he knows what was bugging him. The Voices had been getting more advanced as he spent longer in his Antivoid. Actually started holding conversations for one rather than just shouting opinions. They had also stopped repeating key phrases as often as well.

*.... you just seriously thought about that now? We've been having this conversation in your head for quite some time, ya know? As for your privacy, dont worry, I won't bother you with that, maybe, can't be too sure. Not sure with the others though, lol.

... Error does not like this new development with the Voices. At. All. It didn't bode well if they were going to spontaneously start evolving.

Especially if it was going to get harder to block them out.

*Heeeyy- we're not THAT bad, maybe some but not all. I mean the voices that insult you and stuff, may or may not actually be sentient and is only programmed to just insult you and stuff.

So they were like one of those learning A.I.’s? Not. Comforting. He glitched a little at the thought.

*Come on, whats more worst? Us more likely to read your thoughts from time to time or being able to make things appear in the anti-void and have a large amount of junk everywhere? Unless you dont mind having alot of Blankets, pillows and maybe Chocolate raining down on you-

Error wanted to shudder at the thought of the Voices getting that powerful and tried to force himself into the present. Now was not the time to freak out about this new development. 

There was a pause within the store. The bell had brought everyone's attention to him.

ErRoR AdoPt ThEm alL-

An excellent argument - counter point 'no.' The Antivoid is no place for bitties and unlike him, they need to eat. He may or may not have thought about adopting one at one point but he didn't fancy returning one day to find a mini 'him.' He remembered the berry incident vividly.

Error almost snorted at the Voice's suggestion, even if it wasn't a surprising one. He refrained being as he was in public.

Instead he focused as a human that Error hadn’t met before walked up to him with an annoyed demeanor. He wore a name tag. So this was Kyle. Maybe. Error wondered why the Voice wanted him to be dead other than the LV and dick attitude - though that was actually enough of a reason in itself now that Error thought about it.

“I’m sorry sir. We’re closed right no-”

“I HaVe PaPeRwOrK fOr ThAt.” He interrupted. 

Error held up his membership card, some papers and a bag full of G. The human’s eyes trailed to the G before accepting the papers.

The therapy program paper states that the services are covered by insurance - not that he has any. The extra G is more or less a test of character and payment for silence. Besides, Error maxed out his G capacity a long time ago … it was an uncomfortable amount of 9’s.

While Kyle looked over the papers, he added jingling the G bag.

“aLsO iF aNyOnE aSkS, yOu NeVeR sAw Me … AnD, uH … lEaVe ThE fAcToRy FrEsH oNeS iN.” Error said seeing their numbers reaching into the dozens. He didn’t think he could handle that many … especially the amount of Baby Blues and Papy’s.

“Alright.” Kyle said smiling. “Take your time and get settled. I’ll open up the other pen.”

He took the G and put it behind the desk before explaining to the bitties what was going on.

Error took a seat on the colorful puzzle foam mat. He took a couple chocolate bars from his inventory. Technically he wasn’t supposed to feed them, but what was Kyle going to do about it after taking a bribe? Nothing, that’s what.

Some of the Voices were tsking at the food and others wanted him to knit them sweaters. Some of them chuckled knowingly.

Error ignored them.

When the bitties started coming out he smiled genuinely. The first to come out was a Papy followed by a ‘Sansy,’ a Lil’ Bro, a Baby Blue, a Pup, a Chief and Cap followed by another ‘Baby Blue’ calling to another one 'Candy' still in the display.

Some of the bitties that had been here the last time Error had visited had been adopted and he could see some new faces. He could easily tell them apart by their code at a glance - something he had gotten pretty good at over his years of visiting Bittytales.

“HELLO!” A tiny voice called up to him. It was the Papy.

“hElLo.” Error greeted back as they started gathering around him. He gave them head pats. He didn’t glitch too badly.

“WOWIE! YOU HAVE SUCH A UNIQUE VOICE!” The Baby Blue exclaimed.

“i KnOw.” Error smiled and carefully picked him up causing the bitty to giggle. “... I bRoUgHt ChOcOlAtE iF aNyOnE iS InTeReStEd.”

All the bitties cheered at that.

***

The Destroyer was here … 

Count couldn’t hear what the human said in reply to the paperwork due to his growing panic. 

As soon as he heard the glitched voice of the destroyer Count’s eye lights went out as the shock caught up with him. He shortcutted to the tunnel where he would be out of sight. Count didn’t even take his bowl with him - no doubt the contents spilling in the sawdust - nor did he care that he was in the middle of a conversation with Candy. 

The Destroyer had come here. And he could only think of one reason for that … to destroy Count. Or this timeline. Or both! If he was caught he would likely be dead … permanently.

Count tried to steady his breathing and plan, but he was too panicked to think straight. It took a moment to realize how odd it was the destroyer had held up paperwork and wasn’t destroying yet. It confused him. 

Why did that bother him more?

His brain just refused to cooperate with what was happening.

“neat disappearing act.” Candy said from the tunnel entrance. “any reason for it?”

“t-that’s error.” Count stuttered out.

Candy looked out at the monster then back at Count. There was the sound of the enclosure opening which wasn’t helping with Count’s anxiety.

“yeah, i know.” Candy said, confusion written on his face. “he stops by sometimes. since before kyle worked here, actually. he’s surprisingly shy guy and comes here as part of a therapy program. sometimes as an inspector.”

“y-you don’t understand … he’s a murderer!”

Candy’s eye sockets hardened. “so is kid if you forgot. and excuse me if i don’t take your word for it. error’s been nothing but nice to us bitties. a little short with the staff maybe, but he’s been nothing but kind to us.”

Count took a few steadying breaths. That’s right. He was a bitty right now - there was no way Error would recognize him. And if he came here often then he wasn’t going to just up and destroy the place now. Probably.

“... alright.” Count relented, starting to calm down. “just … give me a minute.”

“you got it.” Candy said, seemingly stuck between wanting to stay and wanting to go.

“CANDY COME ON! THEY'RE LETTING US OUT TO PLAY!”

“coming kid!” Candy called. After a pause he left to join the others in leaving the display.

Count took a few minutes to convince himself he had nothing to worry about like Candy said. That things would be fine .

12:20:38 PM.

“Huh. Where’s the second Sansy?” He heard the Bastard say.

“in the tunnel. he’s being shy.” Candy tattled. 

Count peaked out a little and saw the Destroyer giving the display a patient smile from the ground.

“iT’s OkAy LiL’ BuDdY. i WoN’t HuRt Ya.”

Maybe … this was the wrong skeleton. Maybe the Star Council had made a, heh, error?

Count let himself relax as he exited the tunnel.

That was a mistake.

Error immediately froze when their eye lights met, a wave of glitches spreading through his frame. He stood up, setting the bitty in his hold down with surprising gentleness and moved to loom over the display and Count within.

"yOu." He said, voice even glitchier than before. He gestured like he couldn't form the sentence. "hOW!?"

Chapter Text

Error had just begun breaking the chocolate into small chunks for the bitties. 

Kyle gave a short explanation to the bitties about how Error was part of a therapy program, not to touch him without permission, etcetera, basically reading the paperworks summary verbatim, probably not even paying attention to what he was reading out. Once that was done, he opened the display and began to help them to the ground so they could roam the store - some chose to shortcut or jump the three feet instead though. Most bitties could manage twice that distance with minimal problems.

Error took in the sight of the little fella’s as they wandered closer. The new returnees seemed to call themselves Comet, Napoleon and Pocky according to their codes. So far the rest he recognised from previous visits; Raspberry, Happy, Kid, Punz and Hoods. 

The hyper ones were faster to leave the display to meet him, while the lazier ones wandered closer at a more measured pace. Which was pretty predictable. A few were chatting between themselves. Though Kid stayed behind last, waiting by the display. It didn't take long to figure out why when Kid called back into the display to Candy (Error recognized the name), leading Error to believe there could be a few more he hasn’t seen yet. But so far there were nine confirmed. Error could deal with that many. As long as it didn’t go above 15.

“HELLO!” Happy called to him, stopping a few inches away.

“hElLo.” Error echoed.

They started gathering around him, within reaching distance but still a respectful distance away. A few sat down (not hard to guess who).

He cautiously gave them head pats, trying not to hesitate to long. He let a gentle smile grace his expression when he didn’t glitch too badly and the bitties enjoyed it. The new ones gave surprised expressions at his touch - no doubt because of his unnaturally high temperature and the buzz of his pixels.

The gang and others would often call him ‘The Walking Massage Chair’ behind his back and plot ways to hug him. To this day he still doesn’t know why the phrase ‘you’re just using me for my body’ set them off so hard in a laughing fit on a particularly bad day. They just insisted Error he wasn’t old enough to understand despite being one of the oldest in the group.

“WOWIE! YOU HAVE SUCH A UNIQUE VOICE!” The Baby Blue Comet exclaimed.

“i KnOw.” Error smiled, gently petting him causing the bitty to giggle. “... I bRoUgHt ChOcOlAtE iF aNyOnE iS InTeReStEd.”

All the bitties cheered at that and Error’s smile grew as he relaxed. This was a good plan. He hadn't been to a bitty AU in a while.

The Sans could wait - even if the Sans’ code was incompatible with the universe, he would have time before the place corrupted. Incompatible with nearly every AU himself, Error was used to working within a time limit and familiar with the warning signs. Oh how Error wished he could just move out of the antivoid … he wished for a lot of things he couldn’t have.

Error shook himself from his thoughts. It was no use moping. Not that he had to be happy either. But it was important to enjoy free time when ever he could.

The bitties had gathered around him as he handed out the chunks of chocolate. Most settled down near him, letting Error make the first move - which was greatly appreciated. He didn't think he'd handle it well if they all started climbing him like sugar rushed baby zombies. He shook that thought off, trying to lessen the glitches.

After a moment he went back to giving those in reach hesitant head pats. Taking a breath, wide eyed he offered a cautious hand to Comet to climb into, causing Comet to giggle as he wrapped his hand around him. Comet gripped Errors thumb, big starry eye lights looking up at Error in unadulterated joy. He looked like he had wanted to be held and Error seemed to have guessed right. He had to stop himself from outright awing at the tiny skeleton. Error relaxed again into his mantra of 'this is fine.'

“Y-YOU TICKLE MISTER!” Comet said between giggles.

Error loosened his hold so the bitty wasn’t laughing so hard. He was rewarded when the little guy got comfy and started to purr.

“It’s pArt Of OnE Of my cOndItIOns.” Error answered.

Being a gLiTcH counted as a condition, right? He’s pretty sure he ‘caught’ it from the antivoid … but it’s hard to say. It was difficult to remember that far back, but he got the distinct impression of the colors white, red and gold - it didn’t take a genius to fill in the blanks. 

“OH DEAR! IT ISN'T SERIOUS IS IT?” Happy asked, looking up at him worried holding a chunk of chocolate. His face was a little messy.

“It’S nOn LIfE-thrEAtEnInG.” He shrugged before helping clean the bitties face with his free hand, using his sleeve. 

Some of the lazier types had decided to sit down in a small group, letting the others have the attention in favor of eating the chocolate and watching the interactions warmly.

From the display the other ‘Baby Blue’ jumped down and was also making his way over. Error could tell that this bitty was actually a Yandereberry from his code. Not that Error cared, as he wasn’t going to be here long enough for him to get attached. 

Unlike some other Bittytales, this Copy of the AU didn’t have many of the fancier ‘breeds’ like lamias or more ‘exotic’ AU mini’s like Birdtale. It had more mainstream types with a few look-alikes slipping in. Like Punz being a Dancy or Kid being a Yandereberry. 

It was just how this AU was. Simple, but with a few surprises hidden away to keep things interesting. Bitties were often divided into character/species types. Error had only taken one step into a cold blooded bitty store by accident before (reptiles, fish, etc), seen all the Undynes suplexing in front of the Alphys types and promptly turned around. Undynes require mental preparation. Bitty or not. It was right next to the ‘Traditional Pets’ focused store where he was going to see if he could convince the owner to play fetch with the alternate dog squads while he ‘accidentally’ slipping some catnip to the stressed BP’s. 

Error, unfortunately, would often get addresses wrong and get lost constantly in these cities - he had even stumbled into a Bitty Ring once. The police were thankful for the call, and for a while the event was on the news, thankfully omitting his name and appearance. Though they did portray him as kind of clueless and ‘lucky it ended so well.’ It was lucky for those sickos that Error didn't kill when he's off the job. Unfortunate for them he wasn't against getting them half way there for their cruelty. The police put it down to a fight breaking out between them all. Wasn’t Errors fault all the Ebott Cities were slightly different between worlds and he’d get them confused. There were just a lot of variables that went into an Ebott.

Looking at Kid walking up to him, he tried not to think about the yandere universes he had ‘visited.’ He’s just glad they still didn’t know he was a threat until he started killing … the one time he killed the brother before the yandere was a terrible experience he never wanted to repeat. Dust and his stupid dares.

Kid glanced at the bitty Error was holding before grabbing some chocolate.

“Is there anything else, sir?” Kyle asked as he started edging back to the desk, clearly hoping the answer was ‘no.’

From the corner of Error's socket a familiar red glowing eye light watched them hungrily from a still closed display.

“aCtUalLy, YeS.” He pointed to the lone bitty. “hIm ToO.”

Error knew Rock as the bitty that has been stuck here as long as Error has been visiting - that is to say five plus (this AU’s) years. It was hard to say how long exactly though. Error was a little sad to see the little guy still hadn’t found a home.

When Kyle appeared about to refuse, Error gave a displeased look. It didn't stop Kyle though.

“Sir." Kyle said with the all the exhausted energy of a person on the clock. "That is a Special Care display.”

“YoUr pOInT?” Error asked. “HE’s nOt mAdE Of gLAss.” 

At least Rock seemed to appreciate the words. Kyle just looked even more annoyed before glancing at the desk and back before agreeing with a sigh. Probably just remembered the giant ‘tip.’ He opened the cage.

Error was definitely going to send the owner a text about Kyle's review. After he gave Rock some adventure of course. Error took his fake inspector job seriously. Sort of. Regardless, he just couldn’t stand to let a negligent worker ‘care’ for something living.

Some of the newer bitties exchanged nervous looks as Rock gave what would most be a menacing smile at the chocolate. Error gave the bitties reassuring head pats at his decision - especially Happy and Kid as they seemed the most nervous about the injured bitty. Comet seemed perfectly content to purr away in his hold though.

Kyle gave the rest of the bitties one more withering look and was about to leave before giving the room a double take as Candy finally emerged from the display.

“Huh.” The human Kyle said, eyeing the newly emerging Lil’ Bro. “Where’s the second Sansy?” 

“in the tunnel. he’s being shy.” Candy said with a shrug, shorting to the ground. He discreetly gave Error a curious look before heading toward Kid who had been staring at Error for a while, even while eating. 

At least Error now knew how many bitties he was dealing with. Eleven wasn’t too bad … if half of them stayed away.

The swapfell and fellswap bitties were as pleasant as always with their words. Happy was trying to get the two to be more positive, despite giving Rock nervous glances. Hoods stretched out on the comfortable foam mat next to Punz who was tapping his fingers, lost in thought. Pocky had been staying a bit further away in order to keep an eye (socket) on things - especially Error, Rock and Kid it seemed. 

Rock gave the edge of his display a cautious glance before looking to Error with a hopeful expression. Error sighed but gave a small smile and nod, helping him down with blue magic, being as Kyle had already left to play with his phone - concerns for the bitty in the Special Care display seemingly evaporating. 

The tiny horror was already drooling at the sight of the chocolate as his tiny feet touched down. Error chuckled and handed him an extra large chunk. 

“hEyA rOcK.” He greeted him with a lopsided grin. “Up FoR a BiTe? ”

“... always …” The little guy smiled widely enjoying his treat and head pat. 

Error was mindful of the hole as he pet him. The one time he accidentally slipped in, Rock started to maniacally laugh in a giggle fit and kick his leg in a blur. It was funny until it started worrying the owner and Error when he had trouble breathing. It was the loudest either had heard him. Apparently, it was a bit of an itchy spot. He had to wear a cone for a little after so he wouldn’t hurt himself trying to scratch it further. Rock was so embarrassed after he calmed down.

Even the memory was hilarious - he wished he had grabbed his phone. He could have sent a pick to Horror. Not because he thought they were friends or anything.

Movement from the Returned display caught Errors attention from his reminiscing. Just a quick white blur peeking out of a tunnel before darting back in. He was so quick Error couldn’t even glance at his codes. It must be the shy Sansy that was mentioned. The sight made his smile widen - it was cute how the tiny Sansy was being so cautious. Though Error hoped that didn’t mean he came from a bad home. 

He gave the display a patient smile, hoping to set the bitty at ease. He must be a recent return. 

“iT’s OkAy LiL’ BuDdY.” Error reassured. “i WoN’t HuRt Ya.”

The Sansy edged out of the tunnel.

As soon as Error got a good look at his code, a wave of glitches spread through his frame. He was … shocked, confused and a little exasperated. Of course things weren’t going to go the way Error had hoped. He was on break!

That wasn’t a Sansy. It was a Sans . The Sans he was looking for. As an itty bitty.

This was so very frustrating. 

He stood up carefully, setting the Baby Blue in his hold down and making sure not to gostle any of the other bitty’s that had been surrounding him as he moved. They were all curious about Error's sudden change in demeanor. He swears he wasn’t pouting.

Welp … being as he found who he was looking for, he should probably do his job. At least the code appeared compatible with the AU - a little too compatible with how things turned out for the tiny guy if one were to ask Error.

He moved to loom over the display and the ‘bitty’ within. 

Error was sick and tired of all these Sans’s just abandoning their AU’s to deteriorate, making Error have to speed up his job. He just wanted to watch some Undernovela and knit in peace!

"yOu. " He said, voice glitching heavily with indignation, gesturing broadly. "hOW!? ”

Error gave the bit- the Sans a very unimpressed expression. 

***

Count was gobsmacked as he froze under the Destroyer's gaze. 

He did not expect to be caught immediately. Like, seriously? It was like finding a needle in a needle stack! It was unnerving and definitely did a number to his acting skill confidence. Then again, wouldn't Error have years of experience reading literal alternate copies of himself? But even then he was a bitty so that doesn't matter??

He unconsciously grabbed his watch under his shirt for comfort. If he was going to die anyway, he’s not going to give Error the satisfaction of getting answers for his non specific question. Besides … there were still some things he needed to do before he died. 

He wasn’t going to go down without a fight - if that is indeed what it came down too.

Count was filled with Determination.

“i don’t have to tell you anything.” Count smiled with narrowed eye sockets. Just as Count was about to toss Error out the glass door away from the bitties to begin what would no doubt be a grueling battle, Error raised his hands and spoke. 

Count kept his guard up, but let him speak.

“I’m nOt hErE tO fIght UnLEss I hAvE tOO.” He gave Count a displeased look, and spoke in a clearly exhausted tone, glitching less as he went, the shock wearing off. “I wOULd jUst LIkE sOmE AnswErs.” 

Well, that made two of them, didn't it? 

“Excuse me sir.” Kyle interjected, from his seat. “Do you know this bitty?”

Both Error and Count exchanged glances. They both silently seemed to agree this wasn’t the time or place for … whatever this is.

“nO. mY mIsTaKe.”

“nope.”

They answered simultaneously, giving each other light glares. Error was the first to look away as he went to sit with his back to Count. As if he didn’t see him as anything but an annoyance. Not even a threat worth keeping a socket on.

Count was … surprised he wasn't dust yet. Wasn't he a loose end? Maybe Error really did like this AU and didn't want to do anything with so many witnesses? But that didn’t fit the description sent by the council of a cold blooded killer out for multiversal destruction.

Count took a moment to just study Error, trying to find the reason behind his mundane actions. How he could seemingly be mistaken as such a harmless monster on the surface. Just some guy playing with bitties. 

But Count could feel the LV on him, and even if he couldn't pinpoint the number he could tell it was the highest he had ever encountered - could even see the little bit of dust that still clung to him despite an attempt to brush it off. That could have been what was left of Papyrus for all Count knew.

But he also saw how kindly he interacted with the bitties, putting them at ease. Even Rock who said he could see Souls seemed perfectly content to let him pet him!

What was going on?

Count decided to push his luck. He Checked the destroyer. Error turned back and gave him a ‘really?’ expression. But other than that, it was like he wasn’t worried. And considering what the Check revealed, why would he be?

“Error”

LV - 9999ErRoR

HP - 9999eRroR

ATK - 9999ErrOr

DEF - 9999erRor

*EEEeeEeEee RRrRrRrrrr oOOoOoOOOOo RrRRrrr

Every once and a while a 9 would glitch into a different number or letter, then back. Same with the letters.

Count was chilled. No wonder the letter emphasized delay tactics. It would take a literal army to dent his health.

Error turned back away, holding out a hand to Rock. Rock hopped on and he set him on his shoulder, giving more chocolate. Count could see Error glitch a little around the area of contact before the glitches died down.

Rock raised the piece of chocolate in greeting to Count before munching on it happily. As if he wasn't using the Destroyer of Worlds as a couch.

Count sighed. This was so stupidly surreal. Maybe everything to this point had just been one crazed fever dream, the Resets finally breaking him? He could hope. He pinched his ulina. It hurt. Guess he wasn't dreaming. Another sigh. Welp. Better get this over with. He has a cover to keep.

Count exited the display.

Chapter Text

Count took a breath. Though the encounter only lasted seconds, it felt like it had been much longer. 

He continued to climb the stairs to the top of the display, only a little shaken from the ordeal. For a moment, he was sure he'd be killed. But it hadn't happened. Needless to say, Count was a little confused over it. 

Still grateful to not be dust though. Dust can’t help Cloak and Dagger out of that back room.

But that also brought up a question; why was Error not quite as he was described to be in the letter? Was the Council wrong, or purposely spreading slightly inaccurate information? With that much LV, his matching name and appearance, and his reaction to Count, it was clear it was the right skeleton, just … not as advertised.

Standing at the edge of the display, Count took a moment to stare down at the back of the mountainous dark skeleton. His bare feet tapped on the mettle mesh as he thought about it. 

His brother's killer. Destroyer of worlds … frequinter of pet shops and bearer of snacks? There was something missing. There had to be a reason, a ploy - something . 

Welp. Standing here doing nothing wasn't going to solve anything.

With a nod to himself, Count decided to try the new ability he had gained as a bitty. Hopefully it would be more informative than the Check had. At least it would be more discreet. 

Count read Error’s Soul with the new and strange ability, narrowing it down from the multitude of Souls gathered in the store. With how strong it was, it wasn't hard to find.

Count let out a breath as if he had been struck in the sternum. 

Error emanated so much … sadness. Where Kyle was like a tense silence, Error was like a single candle on a cold night. Steady and small. Solitary yet welcoming. But with a flicker that promised an inferno for those unfortunate enough to be on the receiving end of his rage. And there was plenty of rage, sure, but it was contained - slightly disconnected even.

That really didn’t match up with the image the Council made of him. Of a mad and mercyless murderer out for total destruction. In fact, Error almost felt … kind. A little hot headed, but not necessarily evil.

It was certainly some food for thought. It just felt like Error wouldn’t do anything without a good reason. But what reason would there be to Destroy AU’s? To murder people? … Were their deaths not just the cause of a mad man, but one with purpose?

Welp. The only way to know would be to ask … and hope it wouldn’t get him killed for being mistaken. It would be a chance, but Count was too curious to just let it sit.

Count deactivated the Soul Reading ability to avoid being overwhelmed with the numerous other Souls in the area. 

Finally coming to terms with the fact that Error didn’t seem to want him dead yet, Count shortcut to the ground. He’d see just how far he could push his luck. He’s made it this far.

As soon as his bare feet hit the ground, he caught sight of a blue blur in his peripheral vision. He dodged - only to cause Kid to faceplant, having missed his chance at a surprise hug. Oops. But when it comes to the unknown, it’s best to dodge. Especially with Counts history.

“OOF.” Kid said, face plastered into the colored foam mat. 

Candy looked amused as he walked up at a more leisurely pace. Though Count could also see the underlying inquisitiveness about Count and Error’s situation. Candy was clearly not the only one interested either, if the occasional glances from the rest were any indicator.

Count knew it was a matter of ‘when’ not ‘if’ the other bitties were going to question him. After all, in only the last day and a half of knowing them, Count knew that gossip sparked faster than wildfire. Hopefully they won't come up with wild conspiracies before he can get his story straight. 

Count looked down to his energetic, blue eye lighted double with a smirk. 

“ya good?” Count asked. “you look pretty floored .”

“HMM, YES.” Kid replied heavily with sarcasm. “I DO SO LOVE SURPRISING THE FLOOR WITH HUGS. ALMOST MAKES ME SEE THE APPEAL OF SPONTANEOUS NAPS.” 

“a grounding experience then.” Candy smirked.

Kid practically leapt to his feet in a huff. Unlike Count expected, there wasn’t a small smile at the puns. Instead there was face he recognized: disappointment. With his hand on his hips and foot tapping, he gave Count a particularly intense stare.

It lasted long enough that it made Count duck his head down a little and try to escape the starry eye lights. His gaze slid around the shop and it’s occupants. The other bitties seemed to be getting on pretty well with Error, though Count did notice that Pocky stayed a little further than the rest, even if he did accept the odd head pat. Errors hands practically enveloped their skulls. 

It still threw Count a little seeing how large everything was in comparison to himself and the bitties. It didn’t seem as bad when he was in or on the display, but now that he was out again, he was once more reminded just how small he was. Everything was just … huge. But he was getting used to it. Slowly.

“I WAS WORRIED.” Kid stated, bringing Counts attention back to him.

“aw kid.” Count said, rubbing the back of his skull. “’m fine. i can handle a little trouble.”

“TRUE OR NOT, THAT DOES NOT CHANGE THE FACT THAT IT WORRIED ME."

Well, he got him with that logic.

"it's clear you two have some kind of history." Candy said, casually leaning his weight on one foot. “what, with you claiming ‘murderer’ and him recognizing you.” He glanced at Error and added absently. “it’s always been a little uncanny for a monster to do that so fast.”

Count sighed. Of course the questions would already start - even if it wasn’t phrased as one, Candy clearly was hoping for the story. But answers would have to wait until later. It was a long story, and Count didn't want to lie on the last day before they left with him. He would be honest, and those who still wanted to come could. They deserved to know what they were getting into.

Even if his AU was gone, if he could get back to his regular size, he could still give them freedom in this world. It would just take longer. And be a little more dangerous. And if he couldn’t fix his size … he’d think of something else.

“listen-” Count tried to start, only to be talked over.

“OH, NO - ERROR HAS DEFINITELY KILLED PEOPLE.” Kid stated to Candy. “AND RECENTLY TOO.” He put his hands on his hips to turn back to Count. “THAT’S WHY I WAS SO WORRIED WHEN HE SUDDENLY SINGLED YOU OUT.”

“you knew?” Count said surprised. 

“I KNOW WHAT DUST LOOKS LIKE COUNT.” Kid said, frowning. “IT’S HARD TO FORGET.” Then gesturing vaguely he added. “ALSO THOSE WITH LV TEND TO BE ABLE TO SENSE EACH OTHER. NOT THAT IT TENDS TO BE VERY ACCURATE. IT'S JUST A KIND OF VIBE.”

That was news to Count. Even though Count himself had the ability to sense and see LV, he had no LV to speak of for himself. LV wasn’t exactly common Underground unless from veterans of the war, and even then, not much. Though Asgore did always seem to know when it was Gerson or Grilby visiting for tea now that he thought about it … 

Candy almost seemed to be choking on air with how his jaw flapped open and closed so much at the revelation. 

“d-dust …!?” Candy whisper shouted. 

“DID YOU REALLY BELIEVE HE HAD SOME FORM OF BAKING MISHAP?” Kid deadpanned.

“i, uh. kinda?” Candy admitted, still processing the reveal. “the chocolate always seemed like the homemade, small business type and he always said it was flour.” 

Kid rolled his eye lights. “AND I THOUGHT YOU WERE GOOD AT READING LIES.”

“i am.” Candy said, nervous. “i just … assumed he was embarrassed. he doesn't seem like a bad person.”

“NOT ONLY BAD PEOPLE ARE KILLERS. JUST MOST OF THEM.” Kid shrugged. 

He seemed almost like he was including himself in 'most.'

“you’re not a bad person, kid.” Candy said firmly. “why didn’t you tell anyone about error?”

Kid shrugged again. Whether it was just at the question or also at Candy’s affirmation of Kid’s character was indistinguishable. 

“IT’S NOT LIKE A BITTY’S WORD HAS ANY LEGAL WEIGHT.” He answered. “AND I DIDN’T WANT TO WORRY ANYONE UNNECESSARILY.” 

Candy looked disappointed, but also understanding. Like he knew he would have done the same thing. 

Candy turned to Count. “so what’s your two’s deal?”

“i’ll explain after the shop closes up.” Count promised. “i got some things to discuss with error before he decides to leave.”

“WAIT!” Kid held up his hands to indicate he wanted Count to stay just a little longer. The eye contact was intense with how serious Kid was. “BEFORE YOU GO, YOU SHOULD KNOW, IF THINGS START TO LOOK DICEY, I’LL SEE WHAT I CAN DO.” He gave Count a smile. “I HAVE YOUR BACK.”

Candy elbowed Count and said in a joking manner. “you’re our ticket outta here after all.”

“CANDY!” Kid scolded. “YOU RUINED MY MOMENT OF EPICNESS! THAT WAS ALSO PRETTY RUDE. I ALWAYS WANTED TO SAY SOMETHING COOL LIKE THAT.”

While Count appreciated the offer … 

“what can you do?” Count asked, a little skeptical but also curious.

“A STAB TO THE COCCYX OR ANKLES CAN BE QUITE THE DISTRACTION.” Kid pointed out with a little amused smirk. 

"huh.” Count said, smirking at the image. “well, i'll do my best not to need to be bailed out, but i'll keep that in mind."

It was surprisingly comforting to have someone say they’d have his back, even when the odds appeared so against him.

After a few steps toward Error, he turned back to the two.

“thanks.” He said, simply.

“NO PROBLEM!” Kid waved.

“no skin off my nose.” Candy smiled. 

“MWEH! THAT WAS AWFUL.”

“yeah, but you’re smiling.”

“PERHAPS I AM.”

Count smiled before turning back to his goal. Getting Error to talk.

With purpose, Count walked in front of Error who was murmuring gently to the bitties in conversation. It seemed that Error had steadily become even more covered in tiny skeletons. Rock was still on one shoulder, Happy on the other, Comet in his hold, and Punz and Hoods leaning on a leg.

Such a shame to ruin the serenity of the moment. But this needed to be done, and the sooner the better.

“ok, error .” Count said with more confidence than he was feeling. “we’ve gotta talk.” 

Everyone's gaze was drawn to his own as conversation tapered off, but he didn’t back down. They all appeared very curious about what was about to be said. Except for Kyle, who had put in headphones and appeared to be gaming on his phone. Which was convenient.

“VOId bELOw.” Error muttered, as if the very idea of chatting was an inconvenience, despite having just been doing so with the bitties. Pinching his nasal ridge and looking to the ceiling as if to curse his circumstance. Kid appeared to be sneaking up behind him in anticipation. When Error finally made eye contact with Count, he conceded with an annoyed expression.

“FInE. I’LL stArt tOo mAkE thIs sImpLE.” Error began to list things off on his free hand, irritated. “YOUr brOthEr’s ALIvE, nO I’m nOt gOIng tO kILL yOU, yEs, yOU ArE nOw hOmELEss. ThAt AbOUt cOvEr It? If sO, I’d LIkE tO gEt bAck tO my brEAk FrOm My JoB.”

Error gave a kind of dismissive wave, clearly hoping he could move on.

Count gave him no such luck.

The two answers from the list were almost missed as Count was stuck processing the first one. But the way Error said 'job' with distaste was also not lost on him. But that wasn't what he chose to focus on first.

“he … he’s alive?” Count barley dared to hope. “but you said he was-”

“GOnE.” Error reminded. “nOt dEAd. ThE LInE … dIscOnnEctEd bEfOrE I cOULd cLArIfy.” 

"is he ok?" Count asked in concern for his brother who was out there without him. "he's not hurt is he? where is he-"

Error held up a hand to cut off the garrod of questions. 

"He's fInE. HE's In thE OmEgA tImELInE."

Omega Timeline … the term for some reason tickled a memory at the back of his skull. Suddenly he remembered. That was the name of the place where AU's were meant to evacuate to as a last resort mentioned in the letter Count had received all that time ago.

So that must mean he was safe. That, at least, was a weight off of Counts' mind. They may not be together, but they were alive. One day they might meet up again.

He could Hope.

FRom what he could tell, Error was being honest.

It was then that the other things that were said caught up with Count.

"so …" Count started confused. "why aren't you killing me? don't i know too much?"

Error snorted. "As LOng As yOUr prEsEncE dOEsn't cOrrUpt An AU, I dOn't gIvE A fLIp whAt yOU knOw Or whAt yOU dO. bE gLAd yOU'rE cOmpAtIbLE."

Count was trying to decipher what Error had just said. Some of the bitties were having a harder time deciphering the ‘cryptic’ sentence. 

"umm … could you elaborate on what you mean when you say corrupt?"

Count felt that was important. It was never mentioned in the letter.

Error blinked, then sighed. "NOt thAt yOU'LL bELIEvE mE bUt … UndEr sOmE cOndItIOns, sOmE AU's bEcOmE cOrrUpt shOULd A pErsOn LEAvE Or EntEr fOr LOngEr thAn It tAkEs tO REsEt tWiCe. If cOrrUptIOn wErE tO gEt tOo EmbEddEd wItH CoNtInUeD ReSeTs, thE AU wILL ExpLOdE And ImpLOdE, tAkIng sUrrOUndIng AU's wIth thEm And kILLIng EvEryOnE pAInfULLy In thE VOId." 

He scratched his skull, either ignorant to Counts racing mind, or ignoring it. 

"ThE OnLy wAy tO fIx It Is rEtUrn thE pErsOn hOmE bEfOrE It's tOo CorRuPtEd, aNd/Or cUt thE AU dOwn bEfOrE It tAkEs thE rEst wIth It." He gave Count a sad smirk. "CoUrsE EvEryOnE jUst thInkS I dO It fOr fUn, Or whAtEvEr. WhIch Is fOr thE bEst. MAkEs thInGs EAsIEr If thEy fIGht bAck."

That made a sick sort of sense to Count, as much as he hated to admit it. It was like the trolley problem - five people are tied to a train track, but the lever will divert the train to a single person tied to a different track. Only the scale was a lot higher and continued to happen.

"So my au …" Count said, feeling light headed.

"CorRuPtEd." Error said simply. Though there was a clear tone of disgust. 

Count sat down with a light thump. He could put the pieces together to figure out why.

Error, after a moment sighed and broke off some more chocolate, handing the piece to Count, not making eye contact.

"I'm nOt sOrry fOr dOIng whAt wAs nEcEssAry bUt … I'm sOrry ThAt It wAs nEcEssAry."

Count only hesitated a second before accepting. His eyelights bore into the brown substance as if it held the answers of the multiverse.

He wasn’t stupid. If an AU only corrupts when someone leaves or enters …. 

“... it’s my fault.” Count stated.

“yEp.” Error said.

“ERROR!” Happy yelled from Errors shoulder, startling both Error and Count. Seems they had almost forgotten their entourage of tiny skeletons. “THAT’S NOT HOW YOU CONSOLE SOMEONE!”

“YEAH!” Comet agreed, smiling chearaly, still in Error’s hold. “I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU WERE TALKING ABOUT, BUT CLEARLY THIS IS THE PART WHERE YOU COMFORT COUNT NOW.”

Error looked like he would really rather not.

But the concern the bitties were giving was enough to help Count back to his feet. He could deal with it. What was done, was done. It wasn't the first time he lost everything. Just the first time it was permanent. Internally he knew one day Flowey would get tired of Resetting. Count wouldn't have been surprised if it wasn't on a good timeline either. At least he knew Papyrus was alive out there. He wouldn't be surprised if when they reunited, his brother had befriended the entire population of the Omega Timeline. 

Paps was just cool like that. And if that isn't what happens, well, that's their loss.

"COME ON ERROR." Kid said, teasing. "UNLESS YOU DON'T KNOW HOW?"

"Ugh. FInE." Hesitantly error reached down to Counts surprise and gave him a head pat. "ThErE, tHerE?"

Wow. He really was awkward if it wasn't with a bitty. Count wondered if the fact that he resembled one was the only reason Error even tried. 

Just like with Kyle, Count was filled with a strange calm at the contact. He hated to admit it but Error was even better. It was warm and buzzy, almost like a massage. 

Count sighed. "if what you say is true, there was nothing that could have been done." Count looked Error in the eye as he hesitantly added. "i forgive you."

Error was so surprised by the words he visibly flinched and glitched more heavily. 

It was like the massage chair suddenly hitting level 5 from 1. 

Count had to mentally struggle not to start purring. That would have been way too embarrassing. Instead he ended up making a sort of choking noise for a second. Much better than having Error laugh at him.

Though with the way he held back a smirk when the glitched died down, he’s fairly sure Error knew what Count had done. 

"I SUPPOSE THIS INTERACTION PASSES." Raspberry declared. 

Error huffed and took his hand back, turning away.

"WhAtEvEr."

Was … was Error flustered? That was hilarious. Then Count thought about it. Error, wouldn't exactly have been used to positive interaction, what with his 'job.'

"... I shOULd prObAbLy gO." Error said, causing some of the bitties to give a sad farewell.

And so, their conversation came to an end.

Count couldn't help but wonder what the future holds. 

The next few minutes were a bustle of activity as Error left and the bitties returned to the display to finish what was left of lunch.

12:39:12 PM.

Seems they had about twenty more minutes to spare. 

“SO.” Napoleon said, crossing his arms hightaly. “WHAT DOES THIS ‘AU’ THING MEAN? AND WHAT DOES ERROR HAVE TO DO WITH YOUR LOSS OF HOME?”

Now for the hard part.

Chapter Text

“WELL?” Napoleon went on, impatient foot tapping with arms almost as cross as his expression. His red eye lights as intense as ever.

The curiosity from the numerous eye lights of the rest was just as palpable, making the silence feel tense. Charged with expectation. Count took a moment to survey the room in order to collect his thoughts. Everyone's attention is on him.

Pocky leisurely lounged on a ledge, observant but relaxed. Candy stood nearby, leaning on a support with hand behind his head. Next to him stood Happy, who was carrying Comet on his back for no apparent reason. Raspberry stood by Napoleon with a vaguely amused and smug expression. Hoods sat hunched over with a resigned expression as Punz used his skull to lean his elbows on from behind, amused but clearly still paying attention. 

Meanwhile Kid decided to take his stance right beside Count like some form of secret service, giving Count an encouraging smile as if to say he had his back, whatever the story may be … Count hoped it was a sign of friendship and not the beginnings of something that could become very problematic. There was no telling red in his blue eye lights, so Count decided to stay cautiously optimistic. For now. 

Stars he had a lot to do and keep track of.

Count sighed and pinched his nasal ridge. His interaction with Error left him tired in a way that wasn’t just due to his sleep deprovision, jet lag and emotional whiplash. That encounter had been filled with all kinds of mental gymnastics. Though … and he wouldn’t admit out loud; but the chocolate Error gave him had been really good and was a good pick-me-up. He only got a few bite of that lunch burgers-and-fires-mush which was now taken away, so he was lowkey thankful for the added food. 

Count continued to mull over how in the hell he could explain things in a vaguely believable manner.

It’s not like he could just say ‘i’m a monster from an alternate universe and error is the destroyer of worlds, i built a machine to escape my universe because a murder flower had locked everyone into a time loop that only i remembered and somehow got turned into a bitty during the au transition.’ 

They’d just think he was avoiding the truth. And if they think it’s a lie, they're not exactly going to keep it very secret. Maybe. At the very least waiting till the last minute to dump the full truth would prevent any detail leaking - and after that point, when the full story was out, Count would do the final count. But mostly, the timing of the info drop? It wouldn't give them as much time to change their mind about joining. 

Despite his initial indifference to the added company, Count found he wanted them to come, and that he didn’t want to be alone. He’s already been alone for so long and these guys - these weird, unique, and strange bitties - had reminded him what it was like to have friends to talk to, to joke with and hang out with. Not just a script to follow. Just … being in the moment. And remembering what it’s like for a moment to matter. 

They already felt like friends.

Would they shun him as a liar after he tells his story? He didn’t know. But there was one way to find out.

He met gazes of the bitties that continued to persuade the story out of Count with their combined peer pressure. And while there wasn’t exactly enough time for the full story plus all the questions that would no doubt follow, with customers coming in about 20 minutes … Count could still give them something if not the full details. It might even help ease them into it.

“CAT GOT YOUR TONGUE?” Raspberry asked smugly from Napoleon's side.

Count was filled with resolve. 

12:39:30 PM.

"i'll explain the full story and plan for the escape after the store closes.” Count explained for a second time as checked his watch yet again. “but i guess i can drop some hints for now. my history’s not exactly something that’s very … believable. even with proof. you might even call me crazy.”

“ENOUGH DELAY AND COME OUT WITH IT!” Napoleon pressed, impatient. 

“alright.” Count started. “any of you familiar with syfy?”

“WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH ANYTHING?” Raspberry began to ask with hands on hips, eye sockets narrowing over purple eye lights. Nonetheless he seemed amused by the seemingly off topic derailing. 

“the full story requires a little bit of suspension of belief.” Count interrupted. “just bringing up the concept of syfy will go a long way in leading what speculation you’ll no doubt come up with in the right direction.”

“what kind of syfy?” Hoods asked, raising a hesitant hand but nonetheless going along with the thread. 

“experimental, mad scientist kind.” Count said, causing several faces to darken, no doubt jumping to conclusions similar to Cloak and Dagger. Which is still partially true, and also exactly how he was hoping things would go. 

It would be a bit soon to bring in time loops and alternate universes. He needed to start small so as to not throw his credibility out the window before going through the half of it … and provide the evidence to back it up. The very same evidence he had presented the night before to his friends in the back. Couldn’t get more concrete than that. 

“go ahead and check my authenticity.” Count punned. 

The offer seemed to surprise nearly everyone and Count could tell they were hesitant. Enough so that even the pun itself wasn’t commented on. There was a couple muttered whispers between the closer bitties.

“ALRIGHT.” Kid agreed. “IF THAT'S WHAT YOU THINK IT TAKES FOR YOU TO BE REASSURED THAT WE’LL BELIEVE YOU.” 

With Kid leading the charge, they began to Check him. 

What they saw was a shock to a lot of them into stillness. But most of all it seemed Kid was the one who reacted the worst, stepping back. Count could almost say he saw a flash of fear. Not for himself, no, but for Count .

“I- BUT-” Kid covered his mouth in shock. “IT CAN’T BE!” With tears in his eye sockets he turned to run into one of the tunnels on the far side.

It had completely slipped his mind how Kid would take the news particularly hard … but at the same time, it was good that he knew, just in case. Better than being caught off guard. But there was also no 100% guarantee the worst would happen - he needed to be clear about that to Kid. That now wasn’t the time to panic.

“kid, i-” Count was interrupted by Candy placing a hand on his shoulder.

“i got this.” He leveled Count with a firm gaze.

Silently they argued over who was best suited for this situation. But the answer was obvious.

“... ok.” Count nodded, backing down and letting Candy handle it.

He had known Kid a lot longer than the almost two days Count had been there. Candy would know how best to handle it. Assuming he would be better at comforting Kid than he was with Count himself that is. Count decided to believe it would be okay. Even if he still wanted to check in on him after as well.

As Candy went to follow Kid into his self imposed isolation, most of the rest of the bitties were left in confusion at his actions. Happy and Comet also looked concerned, but also seemed to decide to let Candy handle it. Which was a good sign for Candy’s ability to comfort the other bitty.

Count decided he had done enough build up relating to his past and just came out with the outline of his plan. 

“... so anyway i can shortcut through matter, among other things.” Count admitted. Surprisingly, some were not surprised - namely Happy and Comet. Count continued. “so, for the plan, i set up an online business website as a front to make ordering food and other things online a lot less suspicious. i also found a nearby abandoned factory we can squat in while i find a way to convert gold coins for usable currency.” 

“the kind of gold coin error always uses?” Pocky asked.

“yes, actually.” Count answered surprised someone caught onto that. “after we get some money we can legally buy a place using a library terminal. maybe actually start an online business or something. it’s surprising what you can buy and sell online. i’ll also be taking the edge and boss in the back and the bitty from the special care display with us. that’s, uh. that’s basically it.” 

Puz whistled. “you really thought this through, huh. a bitty colony secretly running a business?” He laughed. “it’s so absurd it might just work.” A smirk. “so what kind of business we talkin’ mr big shot ceo?”

The others seemed to be getting excited at the prospect. Hopeful even. 

“mostly computers.” Count said. "custom builds and things along the like. i wanted to be able to order tech. things like super magnates to render chip data unsalvageable, computers to keep things digital, things like that. and in the case we get customers i know enough to be able to build a pc.” 

Happy raised his hand.

“yes?” 

“IF WE’RE MAKING A BUSINESS.” Happy started thoughtfully. “CAN WE ALSO MAKE AND SELL CLOTHES? I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO MAKE CLOTHS.”

Napoleon and Raspberry both looked intrigued by the idea. 

“uh.” Count said. “sure. i can make another site for that if you want. order materials.” Count looked around at the others. “if any of you can think of anything else you’d like to do, well, it won’t be long till you’re free to choose what you want to do with your life.” 

Punz looked thoughtful as he scratched his cheek. “... i can think of something.” 

“... anything?” Pocky asked, for some reason giving Count a pretty searching look.

“mostly.”

“hmm.”

There was a beat of silence as they considered what it was they wanted before Raspberry pointed out with a raised brow bone. “YOU STILL DIDN’T ANSWER ANY OF NAPOLEON'S QUESTIONS ABOUT ERRORS INVOLVEMENT OR WHAT ‘AU’ MEANS.”

Count sighed, realizing he was right. “yeah. because that’s probably the least believable part that would take the longest to explain, and the store should be open in about 10 minutes.”

12:49:53 PM. 

“ less believable than a bitty with a monster soul?” Punz deadpanned. 

“yes. absolutely.” Count said without hesitation. “and it doesn’t really relate to the escape. more to what other things i had planned to do with access to technology. other things i wanted to build and why.” He smirked. “some real mad scientist stuff.” He shrugged. “but with what error said, it’ll probably be more tame than it was going to be.” 

He was going to share his past as a way to explain why and how he was going to build the AU machine; But now there‘s no real point in trying to rebuild the machine for traveling AU’s if it’s just going to increase the odds of universe corruption. However there are still other things he plans to build - mostly to figure out just what the heck happened to him during the change between universes, but that’s not all, especially if this was going to be his permanent new AU. Maybe something to help bitties store more soul energy. Bitty sized technologies. Other things to make living there more comfortable. Point is he could brainstorm and give another go at his love for technology and inventing.

If he can’t leave for a better AU, might as well make himself a little bit more like home before he sees if he can see Papyrus in the Omega Timeline. Maybe in a week, when things get more settled. The letter said that you could only exit to the AU you left from (that exit’s gone for Papyrus), but Count himself could still enter and visit. Hopefully. Count wasn’t sure about their policy on visitors, just that they accepted the AU-less and shelters those whose AU is under attack. But even then, the Omega Timeline sounded like a large place, with doubles everywhere.

It might be a long time before he found his brother, even with access.

Out of the corner of his gaze he saw Kyle the Bastard get up and start heading to the door.

“WOWIE.” Happy said, brow bones seemingly at a perpetual raise at this point. “YOU MUST REALLY LIKE COMPUTER THINGS!”

“yep.” Count agreed, before turning back to Napoleon and Raspberry. “what i will say is ‘au’ is an acronym for a place and error deleted mine.” 

The place may have been a personal hell loop, but it was still home. He felt a twinge of loss once more at never being able to see his alternate universe again … but at least his brother’s alive, a little traitorous part of him said, relieved that the loops were finally, finally over. 

“... HOW CAN SOMEONE ‘DELETE’ A PLACE??”  Napoleon scoffed, clearly not satisfied with the vague answer that had led to more questions. Raspberry appeared more thoughtful at the hints.

The door to the store dinged open. Surprisingly Bastard was early opening for the afternoon.

12:51:14 PM. 

“well you're just gonna have to wait to find out.” Count said, hiding his watch. “unless you’re not able to keep composed under the suspense?”

Clearly they held back the need to pressure Count into talking through shire force of will to preserve their pride. 

“... FINE.” He grit out, clicking his ankles together and tuning around. “YOU BETTER NOT LEAVE OUT ANY DETAILS.”

And with that, it was as though a silent dismissal spread through the crowd and they all went their separate ways.

Count gazed at where Kid and Candy were. 

***

Kid had read the check with disbelief. The words repeated through his skull as he hid in a tunnel, away from the others. He whipped away a stray tear. 

*A Sansy with a monster SOUL.

He wasn’t just sad. He was afraid. 

“... hey kid.” Came a voice came from the tunnel entrance.

Kid glanced his way and saw that it was Candy, concern and understanding written all over his face. Kid went back to staring at a wall and didn’t answer. Candy took the silence as an invitation to seat himself next to him. Kid couldn’t help but lean a little into the support. 

“... wanna talk about it?”

Kid traced random shapes into the fabric of the ground and gave a noncommittal shrug. “About what.” He asked rhetorically, voice uncharacteristically low and bitter, gaining frustration and volume as he went. “About how if I get attached I might KILL YOU? … Everyone?” Tears reformed, but didn’t fall. “I DON’T WANT TO GO THROUGH THAT.” He suddenly gripped into Candy’s hoodie in a tight hug like a lifeline, hiding his face. “I DON’T WANT TO PUT YOU THROUGH THAT. I DON’T WANT TO PUT ANYONE THROUGH THAT!”

Candy gently wrapped an arm around Kid. 

“it won’t happen.” He said firmly. So firmly that Kid wanted to believe he meant it.

“... How can you know?” Kid all but whined into Candy’s sweater.

Candy gave Kid a pat, looking out the tunnel. “because. you’re not alone this time.”

Kid wanted to believe that. He really, really did. He didn’t want to be alone. He squeezed a little bit tighter before relaxing. Maybe … it would be okay to let himself believe it. Just for a little while.

“besides.” Candy continued. “your owners were human. he might be different enough that it won’t even matter. monster soul or not, he’s still a bitty.” 

“... That’s a stupid theory to risk your life over.” Kid huffed, the bite to his tone fading.

Candy shrugged. “well, if it really comes down to it, i'll give ya a good kick to the coccyx to bring you to your senses. it’ll only cost you your lunch money.” 

Kid couldn’t help but snort, amused. “What, like some common school ground bully? Are you bullying me now?”

Candy gave an exaggerated gasp. “of course not! i only mean to rob you in the most platonic and friendly way possible. y’know.” Candy collapsed his weight on Kid, before singing. “because you’re my beeestieee~! ”

“OH MY GOD, GET OFF, YOU GOOBER!” Kid shouted with sputtering laughter as Candy trapped him below him.

“but you’re so comfy~ ” He continued to sing.

Kid sighed. “... YOU REALLY THINK IT’S OKAY?” 

“i mean … it’s not nothing, but as long as we're prepared then yeah.” Candy said getting up and patting Kid on the head. “it’s okay.” 

Kid gave Candy another hug. This time one of appreciation, rather than desperation. They sat like that for a bit, comfortable in each other's presence.

“... THANK YOU.”

“no skin off my nose.”

They shared a light laugh. 

Someone cleared his throat at the entrance and the two turned to see Count.

“never thought i’d be on this side of the eaves.” He shifted, looking apologetic, hands in his pockets and overall stance worn down and tired. “sorry for interrupting, but i came to see if you were alright and … also apologize for not saying anything sooner.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “i don’t know how the yandereberry thing works, so i wasn’t sure if it was something to worry about so soon. but i did have the full intention of telling you before the escape. well, everyone, really.”

“... IT’S OKAY. IT’S NOT EXACTLY SOMETHING EASY TO BRING UP.” Kid patted the ground, offering a spot for Count to sit. “I’M WILLING TO FILL IN THE BLANKS ABOUT THE ‘YANDEREBERY THING’ SO YOU KNOW WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR. JUST IN CASE.”

“... thanks.” Count said, entering and taking a seat. “and i guess i’ll fill you in on the plan part you missed.” 

Kid smiled. “THAT WOULD BE APPRECIATED.” 

***

Meanwhile, back in an alleyway a few blocks from the bitty store No Bones About It, Error was on the phone. 

“... yEAh, I’d dEfInItELy LoOk IntO beTtEr stAff. NEgLIgEncE And brIbEry fOr OnE. … OkAy, yEAh thAt’s twO.” Error watched the sky as a cloud lazily drifted by, absently scratching a cheek. “HIs nAmEtAg rEAd kyLE. MOndAy shOULd bE pErfEct.” 

With a click he disconnected the call before opening a portal to the Anivoid stopping short. 

“WhAt. thE fUcK.”

“Yooo, broski!” Fresh said, waving exaggeratedly from ErRoR’s beanbag. “Took ya long enough!”

Flowey and Fresh seemed to be in the middle of a game of chess, several furboys scattered around the area, chip crumbs, confetti, glitter and stickers everywhere. It was like Fresh was trying to get under Error’s skin - and Error knew for a fact that was exactly what was going on. 

“He did it!” Flowey was quick to yell. 

“FfFfFFfffRrRrrRReeeEeEeeeEEssSSssSHHhHhHHh!!” Error absolutely screeched, summoning a blaster. 

Fresh’s laughter echoed ominously as he dodged and the two got into their regular greeting. For better or worse, Error now knew Fresh was back to his old self. 

Flowey cowered under the chessboard as the most epic battle he had ever witnessed took place before his widened eyes.

Chapter Text

***

Over the next dozen minutes, Kid went into more detail about his time with his old owners. The first was driven to depression, and the second eventually grew tired with Kids mood swings until he was dropped off when it was too much.

A couple times Candy had to bring him out of a red hazzed stupor as Kid got lost in a memory. Some of the things he said in that state were far more disturbing than simply retelling what happened. Such as where he would have done a better job at keeping 'his humans' attention and making them loved. Some of the ideas were … concerning to put mildly. But it did give Count a heads up at the very least.

Whenever he was snapped out of it he would frown and sigh sadly. Kid knew he had problems, which is exactly why he was worried for Count. What if one day he might 'perfect' whatever plan he had for the one he gained his attachment to? He feared he'd be stuck in that state forever. Guiltlessly. Endlessly.

Sure his morals have always been a little gray, but it was to (what he would like to think) the more acceptable and limited side. He felt no real guilt with using a few bluffs or blackmail if it was for the greater good. Though he didn’t like lying, it too served a purpose at times … mot that he was very good at it if asked things directly.

"SO." Kid summarized, tapping his fingers. "BASICALLY YOU WANNA LOOK OUT FOR SUDDEN BURSTS OF ANGER, JEALOUSY IN OTHERS, MANIPULATION AND CLINGINESS THAT CORRESPONDS TO REDDENING OF MY EYELIGHTS." He gave a light chuckle. "NO PROMISES I WON'T DO ANY OF THOSE WITHOUT BEING ATTACHED ANYWAY, BUT AT LEAST IT WON'T BE MALICIOUS IN NATURE AND WON'T BE PERSON SPECIFIC."

“like how you threatened to tell the human about my watch?” Count pointed out. “and not to discreetly hint at how he wasn’t the most trustworthy to care for bitties?”

Kid waved the facts off. “AS A SANSY YOU WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN PUNISHED. AT MOST YOU WOULD HAVE HAD TO GIVE UP THE WATCH. SOMETIMES A HALF TRUTH IS MORE CONVENIENT THAN A FULL LIE.”

Candy just shrugged as if to say ‘what can you do, he’s right.’ 

Kid leaned forward and propped his skull on his hands, elbows on knees, giving Count his full attention. His expression was teasing and curious all at once.

“WELL I TOLD YOU MINE.” Kid smirked. “CARE TO ELABORATE ON A FEW MORE THINGS ABOUT YOU, MR SCI-FI?” 

“okay.” Count sighed but decided he could give out a little more. “but first let me fill you in on the plan you missed.”

And so he gave yet another summary.

Teleport out with a few extras, lay low in an abandoned building and start a couple online warehouse. Even if they didn’t take off, Count had enough G to last a year or two comfortably. Provided he figures out how to convert it all without giving away the fact he’s a bitty. 

Simple as that. 

Kid blinked after the explanation. “IF WE'RE CREATING ONLINE BUSINESS FOR ONLINE SHOPPING, WOULDN’T IT BE SMART TO SET UP AT LEAST ONE BITTY SPECIFIC SITE TOO?”

Count facepalmed at the oversight. “okay, that is a really good idea. i kinda tunnel visioned on tech cuz that’s what i needed at the time. though happy already suggested custom bitty cloths.” 

“why’re so insistent on having access to tech stuff anyways?” Candy asked, hands casually behind his skull.

Count paused before deciding he might as well tell them. “i was going to try and reverse what happened to me.”

The two looked startled. Candy’s mouth even hung open.

“WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO GET RID OF A STRONGER SOUL!?” 

"you can do that?"

“... i never claimed that’s what was done to me.” Count pointed out. "and i'm fairly confident in my skill."

They both seemed to consider the statements. 

“then.” Candy asked, Kid leaning forward even more to hear the answer. “what was done to you?” 

Count shifted so that he could face them directly so they knew he was being serious.

“i wasn’t originally a bitty.” He said making eye contact. “i was a monster.” 

Candy gave a hesitant chuckle as if testing out if he was joking. Meanwhile Kid looked like Count had just claimed to have been abducted by aliens. 

Count sighed. “... i did say my story would take some suspension of belief.” 

Candy stopped his brief chuckle to examine Counts face closely. Seems he could see Count was telling the truth.

“... that really is mad scientist levels of sci-fi.” 

“yep.” Count said, popping the p. “and unfortunately, i’m that mad scientist.” 

“WAIT WAIT WAIT.” Kid signaled for a time out. “ARE YOU SAYING YOU TURNED YOURSELF INTO A BITTY?”

Kids eye lights lit up with amusement.

“it was not my intention.” Count huffed.

There was a pause before “pfft.” The two were trying to hold back laughter.

“it’s not funny.” Count deadpanned. 

Apparently his expression made it even funnier, because the laughter was no longer being held as the two fully let loose. 

The corner of Counts teeth quirked up as he tried to fight the infectious sound. “it’s not that- okay maybe a little, heh heh heh.” He broke. 

Their laughter was cut out by a scraping sound trailing down the outside of the tunnel. Reluctant laughter and sputtering was heard outside. 

These skeletons and their eavesdropping were a plague, Count sweared. 

The three of them made their way out of the tunnel - Candy needing to duck a little - and were met with the sight of Pocky on top of the tunnel trying to hide snickers and Punz on the ground next to it and feet stuck straight in the air it seems it fell. Happy was also guiltily nearby, fiddling with his phillangees, embarrassed at getting caught and Raspberry lounging as if he wasn’t also caught … though there was a tell-tale smirk that was fighting to be noticed.

In fact, the only bitties not present were Napoleon, Comet and Hoods. They seemed to be spread out in a way to make the grouping less conspicuous at  glance. Though this was pretty much one of the few times Count had managed to catch Hoods alone - he usually looked pretty tired. 

Count’s pretty sure their friends offered to explain whatever they might overhear. 

Laughter tried to cut out as the three emerged, but Pocky’s expressions still twitched to amused. 

Punz looked over with a deadpan expression, legs still in the air, hands in pockets. “huh. fancy meeting you here.”

Happy offered Punz a hand up as Count facepalmed. Kid looked worried and Candy looked disappointed at Pocky who ended up pointedly not meeting eye lights. 

“HOW … HOW MUCH OF THAT DID YOU OVER HEAR?” Kid asked worriedly.

“we know you’re a yandereberry.” Punz admitted, getting to his feet.

Kid seemed to deflate. 

“but.” He said regaining Kids attention. “we all now know what to look out for.”

Happy took a step forward. “AND WE ARE ALL WILLING TO HELP!” He said with a beaming smile. 

Kid was tearful as he gave a running leap into a hug. 

“YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST FRIENDS I COULD HAVE EVER ASKED OR!”  

“on the topic of printing errors and in the interest of transparency.” Punz said, with a shrug and averting his eye lights, pulling a hood down over his lightly blushing skull. “i would like to say i identify as a … dancy.” 

Count’s brow bones rose. He remembered the video of a Sansy dancing.

“heh. I’ve heard of that.” He then smirked as he walked over and nudged him in the side. “so, you like to dance huh.”

The blush grew brighter. “s-shut.” 

“DANCING IS A WONDERFUL HOBBY!” Happy claimed, also scooping up Punz. He now had a smaller skeleton on each side, held like clingy toddlers.

“IF WE ARE ALL HAVING A SECRET SPILLING SESION.” Happy continued. “THAN I SHALL ADMIT TO A HEAVY DISLIKE OF THE DARK!” 

There were a couple chuckles from that. 

“AW PAPY.” Kid said with a smirk, tightening his hold in a hug. “WE ALREADY KNEW!”

“WHAT!?!?” Happy’s eye lights bulged. 

Laughter increased and everyone was in a lighthearted mood after that, laughing and joking with smiles.

Then Raspberry had to point out Count could be lying.

Count blinked. “well, i promised proof, didn't i?” He said looking at the asker. “it be pretty stupid to not be able to follow through.” 

“WHY CAN’T YOU JUST SHOW US NOW?” He asked, hands on hips, foot tapping. 

1:24:36 PM. 

During the time he had spent in the tunnel, the store had been opened. Count looked around the store and saw that there was already a customer and sighed. “to risky. don’t want to be caught.”

Raspberry sighed. “FINE. BUT IT BETTER BE CONVINCING.”

Count laughed tiredly and winked. “we’ll see just how convincing i can be. until then, i suggest we all rest up in some capacity.” 

Count was running on empty after his desterbed sleep. Without another word he went off to what he could almost consider his tunnel for a nap.

The rest of the day was fairly quiet. Whispers and theories were traded. Naps were had in preparation for a late night. Customers came and went. Sunlight continued to stream into the store as the sun made its slow descent back over the far horizon. 

Eventually they all managed to bring forth any and all weird things involving Count and how his story might actually be as weird as he claims. Though before that, some of the theories were … pretty wild.

***

“A SCIENTIST?” Comet asked curiously to Happy, who had explained what had been overheard. “WHAT IF HE’S THE CREATOR OF BITTIES? HE COULD HAVE BEEN IN THE MIDDLE OF PRODUCTION AND AN ACCIDENT HAPPENED.” 

“he doesn’t know enough about beitties to be their creator.” Pocky having overheard pointed out. 

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN?” Happy asked, tilting his head. 

“he asked why we were getting headpats with the meal yesterday.” 

“OH.” Comet blinked. “WELL THAT IS DEFINITELY SOMETHING HE WOULD KNOW IF HE WORKED WITH BITTIES.”

“INDEED.” Happy agreed. “MUST BE WHY HE’S BEEN SO SHY WITH THE BITTY PILES. THE CONCEPT COULD HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY NEW TO HIM.”

The two seemed surprised he noticed something like that and Happy felt a pinch of pride. 

***

“I STILL THINK HE COULD BE LYING.” Raspberry said to Napoleon. “HOW EVER IT WOULD BE BEST TO WAIT UNTIL HE OFFERS HIS SO CALLED EVIDENCE BEFORE COMPLETELY DISMISSING HIS CLAIM. AS LUDICROUS AS IT IS.”

“I WONDER WHAT HE COULD POSSIBLY HAVE TO OFFER THAT COULD EVEN REMOTELY HINT AT WHAT HE SAYS IS TRUE.” Napoleon said, then reluctantly added. “OTHER THAN THAT SOUL CHECK. CLEARLY SOMETHING HAPPENED.” 

Candy and Kid happened to be walking by and Candy added offhandedly not even folly stopping. “like shortcuting through matter isn’t enough proof.”

“HE COULD BE LY-” Napoleon started but was cut off.

“OH YEAH!” Kid added talking to Candy giving a discreet wink and sticking his tongue out at the other two, as they continued to wonder about the display. “YOU MENTIONED HE LEFT THE DISPLAY LAST NIGHT.” He turned back to Candy who was none the wiser. Or pretending to be ignorant. “I WONDER WHAT HE WAS DOING?” 

“maybe that’s how he knew about the factory nearby?” Candy offered.

“OHHH THAT MAKES SENSE!” Kid aid, excited.

The two were out of hearing distance when the two prideful bitties slipped into thought at what had been said. 

“REGARDLESS OF HIS STORY.” Raspberry said, reluctantly. “IT SEEMS THAT HE CAN GET RESULTS.”

Napoleon nodded. “IT WOULD BE WISE NOT TO WASTE THE OPPORTUNITY. THOUGH I AM … CONCERNED ABOUT KID.” He narrowed his sockets as he saw him walking away. “WAS HE ALWAYS SO RUDE? OR IS HE SHOWING HIS TRUE SELF NOW THAT WE KNOW ABOUT HIS DISPOSITION?”

***

Hoods lay down lazily on a platform, Punz not far. “y’know how count said an au was a place and error destroyed his?”

“yeah?” 

“ya think error shut some place down?” He mussed. “maybe au is short for a different bitty branch error had to close down.” 

“but then …” Puz said, confused. “that would make count the one who was doing unlawful activities, him claiming to be a monster and scientist. he doesn’t seem the type.” 

“mm, good point.” Hoods relented. “i’m just spitballing ideas here, but what if he were forced? could be why error had to reassure him his brother was alive. could have been a hostage.”

“stars … i hope not.” Punz said. “but what about error also saying he wasn’t going to kill count? like that might be something he needed to worry about?”

“... we all know error’s not exactly the most upstanding of citizens.” Hoods pointed out. “might take things into his own hands at times if you catch my drift. might explain why he and error have the same kind of gold coins. an underground currency.”

Punz hummed in reply. “... i think we should wait before jumping to conspiracy theories. error also mentioned count was homeless now. and i don’t really see how that fits into your speculation.” 

Hoods chuckled lightly. “like i said, they’re just ideas. i don’t really think he’s some kidnapped scientist forced to do underground work. i just thought it was fun to think it might be something cool you might see on tv.” 

“or book.” Punz smirked. “ever thought of putting some of those ideas on paper?”

Hoods stuttered as he broke the others' gaze. “o-oh. me? but i’m just a bitty-”

“a bitty that’s about to have a lot more free time.” Punz reminded Hoods.

***

Dinner was uneventful as far as Count was concerned. He ate quickly, and said a few puns before going back to sleep to save his energy. He was definitely going to heat his hot dog(?) from his inventory if they couldn’t find something edible on the way. Even trash if need be - it’s not like he wasn’t used to dumpster diving back Underground. Especially in his childhood … he thinks.

Regardless, after a day of much chatter, the store closed and the sun was starting to lower. Theories were swapped and built upon as they all tried to go about their usual activities. Albeit with a few more naps than usual in preparation for a late night of walking.

It was around that time Count’s sockets creaked open.

8:17:40 PM.

Not bad. But best to wait till midnight to start heading for the factory so as to avoid detection. 

He sat up with a stretch and a sigh. He had had plenty of sleep. Count decided now was as good a time as any to start telling his story. Count left the tunnel to the sound of conversation bordering on an argument. Slowly he bagan to make out the words. 

“like i said.” Pocky continued.“he don’t know enough about bitties.” 

“THAT DOESN’T MEAN HE WILL BE BEYOND PROBING US TO LEARN.” Raspberry stated. “YOU HEARD IT YOURSELF. HE EVEN CALLED HIMSELF A MAD SCIENTIST.”

Before the argument about his trustworthiness could get any further he stepped in. 

“you do know you could just walk off to a mama cry’s or something after right?” Count said casually leaning on a piller. “it’s not like i plan to force you to stay.”

Mama Cry’s was a place that kept popping up when he had been researching bitties. She was considered the main head in the field of bitty care and had numerous rescue shelters. 

Almost everyone seemed surprised at the suggestion, except for Candy and Kid. Candy had already suggested that he might if things seemed better that way. It was actually what gave Count the idea for it. 

“YOU …” Napoleon started, taken aback. “WOULD TRUST US NOT TO TELL ON YOU?” 

“you sayin’ you’d snitch?” Count smirked.

“NO!” He flinched back. “I’M NOT A BITTY SNITCH!” 

Count had heard that phrase before. In fact it was the same as the one Cloak had used when finding out about Counts' not so normal bitty abilities. 

Bitties … really looked out for each other. Especially when they've lost a home before. 

“that’s what i thought.” Count said. “i promised to take you guys out if you want. i really meant that ‘if you want’ bit.” Count shrugged. “just consider me your ride out if you don’t want to stick together after we make our getaway.” 

Napoleon huffed, crossing his arms, red eye lights glaring. “MAYBE I WILL!”

For a brief second Raspberry looked betrayed, but it was quickly masked by a scowl.

“does that mean you don’t think of yourself as our owner?” Hoods asked, cautiously raising a hand to gain attention. But as soon as he got that attention he seemed to shrink into his hoodie.

Pocky as well as a few seemed thoughtful about the question

Count looked confused. “uh, no? i see ya guys more as friends than anything. saying i own you just cuz our souls are a little different just feels wrong.'' Then to keep things lighter he shrugged and added, with a smirk. “Only type of pet i have experience with is a pet rock.”

Some looked relieved and at the same time, some looked disappointed. 

“SO WHAT’S THIS PROOF YOU HAVE?” Raspberry asked, hands on his hips, bringing up the topic everyone was no doubt waiting for.

Count shrugged. “okay. i’m gonna need some room though.” 

Now that he didn’t have to worry about shoppers and the Bastard peeking in at them he had no problem bringing a few credentials out of his inventory. More sentimental than anything really. Even when he worked there he needn’t use it after he got the hang of his shortcuts. Still … he could never really will himself to get rid of it.

In the middle of the little group appeared a laminated keycard for the Hotland Lab with his information and image. Held up, it would probably be just shorter than Count was now.

“YOU HAVE AN INVENTORY!?” Raspberry sputtered.

“like i said.” Count said. “i’m not originally a bitty. and so far it seems like i kept all my monster quarks. including inventory, full magic ability and a sustainable soul. but that wasn’t the evidence. what was in the inventory was.”

After everyone calmed down from that, the questions really began.

“where’s hotland labs?” Candy asked. “never heard of it.”

“long way from here.” Count said, trying not to linger on the fact he’d never see that place again. 

“IF YOU REALLY HAVE A MONSTER SOUL.” Napoleon asked with a scowl. “WHY ARE YOUR SOUL ENERGY RATES SO AVERAGE FOR WHAT A SANSY WOULD BE EXPECTED TO HAVE?”

Count shrugged again. “no idea. If i had to guess it’s probably a side effect of … what i was working on.” He said, sheepishly looking away. 

“WHAT WERE YOU WORKING ON COUNT?” Kid asked, eye lights searching.

This is where they choose to believe him or not. He sighed.

“everyone still keeping those science fiction concept knocking around their skulls?” Count saw everyone was patiently waiting for him to continue. “... i was working on modifying a timeline quake observation machine into a trans-universal gateway in order to evacuate my au. my alternate universe that is.” 

They were all very good at not giving away their thoughts, besides a few furrowed brows and head tilts.

“ENGLISH.” Napoleon spat.

Ah. Right. Simple terms. 

“I changed a machine meant to spot evidence of time travelers and turned it into a giant shortcut generator to hop realities.” Count said. “not that that was it’s original purpose, either. that was to create pocket dimensions for storage or, uh, more commonly known as an inventory.”

There was another pause as those who didn’t get it the first time were processing the info.

Candy deadpanned. “are you saying you’re the inventor of inventories?”

“no. i just worked under him.” Count answered with a shrug. “he disappeared and i got all his neat junk.”

“why do you think this is a side effect of that machine?” Pocky cut in clearly trying to appear casual. 

“because it worked. sorta.” Count said shifting. “shortcut sent me here. only, it sent me like this.” He gestured to his bitty form. 

“HOW CAN YOU BE SO SURE THIS IS REALLY ANOTHER REALITY?” Kid asked.

“cuz where i’m from.” Count explained the history long learnt. “after the monster human war, monsters were forced underground and trapped by a spell. fact that we’re all topside is evidence enough for me.” 

“is that the reason for the au evacuation?” Punz asked, confused. 

“part of it.” Count admitted. 

“WHAT DOES ERROR HAVE TO DO WITH ALL THIS?” Happy asked, head tilting in clear thought. “WASN’T HE THE ONE TO BRING UP THE AU’S?”

Count sighed. “listen. how about instead of playing 20 questions, i just start from the beginning?”

There was a few nods so Count decided to begin. 

“i suggest y’all get comfy. This could take a while.”

Chapter Text

***

In the anivoid, both Fresh and Error were left panting as the fight ended, gazing at the other unblinkingly. The two had been fighting for hours, the intensity of the battle waning over that time.

That is until Fresh held up a hand and the two saw that his host was shedding dust. UH-OH read his shades.

“Aw man, broski.” Fresh complained. “This brodachios home slice was new!” He sighed. “Guess we up an’ hit it pretty hard, huh, dude?”

Error looked guilty for a moment before scowling. “sErVeS YoU rIgHt.”

As much as Fresh annoys him and as many times as Error has threatened to kill the parasite, he doesn’t really want the guy to die. At times when relaxing at Nightmares Castle for a break he became tolerable almost. Sometimes. Okay, not often, but it was nice when that happened.

Fresh hummed, shades with the lettering OW-CH at the words. At least Fresh wasn’t hungry anymore, but he really didn’t want to be left defenseless without a host. It was time to flip on over to something newer and better.

“Well I’ll be back my radical pal.” Fresh’s slowly dusting and sharp mouth smiled. “I gotta go up and get my dinner, bro.”

Fresh Poofed away as Error went about cleaning his living area, tossing the junk into Underfell, he sat down. Flowey seemed content to try not to antagonize the destroyer and was playing himself in a game of chess. Error actually managed to forget he was there.

Error got comfy in his bean bag and opened Undernovella. 

“uGgH. A rERuN.”  Error grumbled shutting the portal.

Now what was he supposed to watch?

After some thought, he decided to open a portal to monitor the Sans he had just encountered. 

Just to make sure the universe really is compatible. And not because a particular Voice asked to see more of the bitties. Not at all.

***

Everyone got comfy, including Count as he prepared to tell his long story.

Pocky ended up hugging Comet like an oversized teddy bear on one of the platforms with a shrug as Comet hopped into his lap. Happy sat cross legged on the ground below them expectant, next to a Napoleon who chose to remain standing shooting Kid suspicious glances and a Raspberry sitting leaned up against a pillar. Punz and hoods sat on top of a tunnel that was to the right of them and Kid and Candy sat inside, Candy draping an arm lazily over Kid. 

And there Count was, sitting on a platform and looking at the semicircle of eager listeners. Some had stars in their eyes, and some while less obviously interested.

“so.” Count began. “my story starts in a world similar to this one, but different. an alternate universe.”

Napoleon scoffed and Kid, Comet and Happy hushed him.

“DON’T INTERRUPT STORY TIME!” Happy scolded. He turned back to face Count in anticipation. It was clear he took story time very seriously. 

And so Count went over his story as the sun dipped lower in its celestial route, time continuing on. 

He covered his foggy time in Hotland lab where they played loose with safety and used themselves as subjects for Determination studies. About the repurposed machine that picked up the possibility of the end of the world, caused by someone messing with timelines. Told how Flowey had appeared and how he progressively became more unhinged and homicidal, to the gasps of a few. He continued onto the letter and how it gave him the idea to escape, pulling it out to fill most of the cage as evidence. Only pulling out the first page to avoid encumbering the cage with pages. 

So engrossed in the story, only a few read the page in detail.

Then he explained how he came to be there alone. And how he left his brother through that flowers interference.

“NO!” Happy said, the most vocal story listener, despite having told Napoleon off about interrupting.

Count nodded grimly and moved onto showing up in this universe. Meeting Cloak and Dagger followed by everyone else.

Some were surprised about the treatment of edgy type returns. Others looked like they had suspected. But a lot also already knew.

And then he got to his phone call with Error and how his brother had cut out, only to have Error be the one on the phone to say he was gone. Again, the letter showed that that was indeed something that was what Error could have done.

At this point, Happy was extremely invested into the story (he had been since the beginning) and had even leaked a few tears.

Count then explained the conversation he and Error had had when he showed up. How it, at least somewhat, invalidated some of the claims the letter made.

And finally his plans to reverse the effects of the trip and revert back into a monster. It would make going about business a lot easier. He shot an apologetic look to Kid, before also reminding everyone to be careful about his condition. But Kid looked relieved at the reminder rather than betrayed.

“and that brings us to now.” Count ended. 

Happy clapped, still tearful at the tale. 

9:27:17 PM. The sun had set at this point.

“ERROR WAS WRONG!” Comet shouted from Pocky’s lap, now that the story was over. He looked annoyed ever sense the conversation had been explained. “THERE WAS NO WAY THAT COULD HAVE BEEN YOUR FAULT. YOU HAD NO IDEA WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF YOU LEFT!” 

“YEAH!” Kid agreed, frowning disapprovingly. “WHAT A MEAN THING FOR HIM TO SAY.”

A lot of the other bitties nodded along with the sentiment. 

“heh.” Count said, avoiding their gazes and lightly scratching a cheek. “thanks.” 

Maybe it wasn’t entirely his fault, but he was still the cause. He still felt guilty but … the words were at least in some part, a comfort. Feeling guilty didn’t make a person guilty. 

“THAT IS THE CRAZIEST STORY I HAVE EVER HEARD.” None other than Napoleon said, interrupting the moment. “... BUT.” He relented. “IT’S SO FAR FETCHED, YOU WOULD HAVE TO BE AN ABSOLUTE MORON TO HAVE US BELIEVE YOU. AS FAR AS I CAN TELL … YOU ARE NO MORON.” Arms crossed he looked Count directly in the eye lights. “BUT THAT DOES NOT MEAN I NEED TO BELIEVE YOU EITHER. AS LONG AS YOU ARE CAPABLE, I DON’T SEE HOW ANY OF THIS IS RELEVANT BESIDES SATIATING CURIOSITY.” 

He had a point. But that still sounded like it wasn’t a no to joining. 

“well.” Count said. “you’re right that it doesn’t really matter. what matters is, are you in?” 

The first to nod or accept were Kid, Candy, Happy, Comet and Pocky. Hoods and Punz only hesitated a moment before agreeing.

Napoleon stood tapping his foot, arms crossed when Raspberry nudged his side. The two seemed to have a silent conversation before Napoleon burst out “FINE!” Before walking away. 

Raspberry looked smug as he answered before following. “I BELIEVE THAT MEANS WE ARE IN.”

Count was … a little surprised that all of them wanted to join. But it wasn’t an unwelcome surprise. It made his soul feel warm with hope and compassion.

“huh.” He said, raising his brow bones, and slowly smiling. “well that’s unanimous. guess i should get to work then.” 

With a smirk, he shortcut to the roof of their cage and opened it up, using blue magic to lower in the makeshift stares that’s used for meals that were set to the side of the cage. 

Now it would look like Kyle forgot to close the lid, heh.

The bitties watched the acts of magic with marvel. Being told he could use monster magic and seeing it were two different things.

9:28:02 PM. 

“bit early to leave.” Count said down to them, so they knew it wasn’t time yet. “but if ya guys want ta wander the shop or nap before we get things on a roll, feel free. as of this moment, consider yourselves your own person. i've got some bitties in the back to introduce and a computer to hijack in the meantime.”

And so Count cut into the back room, leaving some thoughtful bitties to their devices. Cloak and Dagger were both awake and alert. It was Dagger that spotted him first.

“AH. FINALLY.” Dagger said, coming to the edge of his enclosure. The dim light accentuating his resting glare of an expression. “IS IT TIME TO LEAVE THIS AWFUL PLACE?”

“took you long enough.” Cloak said with a nervous smirk. “got any grub?”

Count shrugged before getting right to it.

“there’s a couple hours before the streets get less active and there’s food in the office.” Count answered, redying his magic to break the two out as he didn’t have a key. Bastard had pad locked them. “back up.”

The two stood at the back of their cages.

Count teleported in and created a super-duper mini-blaster, shooting the front of the cages off with a crash. It was safer than shooting from the outside. 

“the hell was that!?” Cloak asked, looking at the dissipating attack.

Dagger's jaw had hung open in shock.

Guess that confirmed Counts theory that bitties didn’t have any such attacks. 

“gaster blaster.” Count answered. “picked that trick up from my time in the labs.”

“why didn’t you just shortcut us out?” Cloak asked, confusion clear in his voice as he relaxed.

“mm, evidence to show that something was here.” Count said. “yesterday i set up an email to automatically send in the morning to the authorities explaining the shady things going on.”

“no shit?” Cloak said, sockets raised in surprise and clearly impressed. 

Dagger was as talkative as usual and hummed at the new information.

Count’s stomach area growled. Those tiny meals were catching up to him. Though he did still have enough magic to get by, he could use some food himself

“anyway.” Count said, scratching the back of his skull in embarrassment. “let's go get some grub before we meet up with the others.”

Count shortcut them to the ground then opened the door to the room. He had to pick the lock again and left it ajar when they left. 

Count led the group as the other two followed at a more cautious pace, taking their time to look around. The first time they didn’t exactly get to look around. 

Cloak said, gruffly. “you sure seem to know what you’re doin.” 

“eh.” Count shrugged. “not the first time i’ve had to be creative.”

“so how many are coming?” Cloak asked with a nod, referring to the escape. 

Count opened the next door with blue magic and the three entered. 

“not including us, 8.” Count answered, looking back at the two as he made his way into the office. “maybe 9 if the special care display bitty agrees.”

They were both surprised at the number.

“well hot damn.” Cloak said, then added. “... do they know about our, uh …” He trailed off.

“yeah.” Count admitted, locating the fruit basket. There was less than there was before. “but so far they’re willing to accept it. kid also has lv and came out as a yandereberry, so if they can accept that, you guys should be fine.” 

“a fucking yendereberry!?” Cloak whisper shouted. “but don’t you have a monster soul?”

Count shrugged. “kid has been very open about what to look out for, and i’m a bitty right now, so it might not apply. he’s also had previous owners and the level of attachment seems to lessen each change.” 

“... what do you mean, ‘right now?’” Cloak caught.

“long story.” Count said. “ask one of the others. i just spent over an hour explaining to them. but the summary is, i used to be a monster before a lab accident.” 

9:35:49 PM.

“wait.” Cloak said. “so you weren’t the test subject?”

“no, i was at one point.” Count admitted. “i just also happened to be a scientist. It’s complicated.” 

“i bet.” Cloak muttered, as the two edgy bitty’s started cutting up a banana to share.

The three shared the spoils of the fruit basket in silence, the two being progressively more horrified, as after Count ate his portion of the banana unusually fast, he went on to eat an entire apple himself - minus the seeds. 

“monster soul.” Count explained to the flabbergasted skeletons. “monster appetite. surviving on bitty portions for two days hasn’t been pleasant, but could have been worse.”

He put the rest of the food into his inventory - basket included. Seems tomorrow they’d be having fruit salad for breakfast. Count turned to the other two. 

“welp. ready to meet everyone?”

***

(A/N: oh hey - been awhile since i pointed out where i could have left a cliffhanger.

…

i could have left a cliffhanger ;) )

***

Cloak sighed as Dagger nodded. Clearly they weren’t looking forward to it but realized it was necessary.

“if we must.” Cloak said going to stand.

And so Count led them over to the front.

“anything we should know?” Cloak asked.

Count hummed. “besides kid being a yandereberry, punz is a dancy and has already spent some time on the streets and, well. napoleons a bit of an ass. i think that’s it. hold up.” Count said now that they were at the base of the Special Care Display.

“tch. what’s the hold up. isn’t this the wrong display?” 

“yep.” Count said. “but i figured i’d offer my pal up there the chance to come with. that way introductions can happen all at once.”

“oh.” Cloak said. 

They look up when they hear a grating sound. 

With one hand Rock was clawing slowly at the glass and with the other he had gripped his dead socket, grin stretched widely in the dim light, red eye light glowing. He was looking down at them.

The three look back at each other after the interruption.

“you’re insane.” Cloak deadpanned. “you want to bring him?? ”

Count smirked and tilted his skull. “did i ever claim to be sane?” He shortcut into the display behind Rock, leaving Cloak and Dagger on the ground.

“hey ya tiny terror.” Count began amused. “you done scaring your new friends?” 

Rock chuckled, dropping his crazy act and teased back. “awww … shaking in your … hoodie?”

“pfft. petrified.” Count said. “i’m guessing you know why i’m here?”

Rock smiled and offered a hand. “... yep … i’m in.”

Count accepted the hand and helped Rock shortcut out to the base of the display where Cloak and Dagger had waited. They gave Rock a suspicious look as he gave a little wave and head tilt from Counts side. 

“this is rock.” Count introduced. Then looked at Rock in silent question to which Rock nodded. “his head injury affects his magic and he’s in a perpetual state of checking everything.”

 Cloak and Dagger tensed a little at the info.

“‘s … okay.” Rock said, a little shy with his smile as he struggled to speak. “feel … free to … to check me back … anytime. only … fair.” 

Curious they, including Count, took him up on the offer.

“ROCK”

LV - 1

HP - 20

ATK - 5

DEF - 1

*Likes to act scary but is actually a big softy.

“huh.” Cloak siad, smirking. “a prankster, eh?”

Rock gave a creepy smile, somehow crescenting his eye light as if his socket were half lidded. “... perhaps.”

Cloak had a few beds of magic sweat form on his skull. 

“pfft.” Rock cracked up with a jovial smile and offered a hand.

“tch.” Cloak rolled his eye lights, and went to accept it.

Rock snapped at him as if to take a bite out of him much like he had the human earlier. Cloak pulled back fast, Dagger stepping in front almost subconsciously in defense.

Rock burst into mischievous laughter.

“you mother fu-!” Cloak began.

“HELLO FELLOW BITTIES!” A voice came from on top of the Return Display. It was Comet poking a head over the edge. “ARE THESE THE FRIENDS YOU WERE TALKING ABOUT?”

“yep.” Count confirmed. “we’re comin’ up to have a nice meet an’ greet. then we can skele -daddle.” 

There were snickers and groans at the pun.

9:38:31 PM.

By now the Factory Fresh Display had already caught onto what they were doing, but aside from some disapproving and curious glances it didn’t look like they were going to sound the alarm. Besides, foot traffic outside had dwindled to virtually nonexistent. 

Count helped Rock shortcut to the top of the cage and Cloak did the same for Dagger.

“name’s cloak.” Cloak greeted Comet, then gestured at Dagger. “this is dagger.” He gave a sharp smile, but the sweet from before hadn’t dissipated. “nice ta meetcha.” 

“LIKEWISE!” Comet said, grabbing their hands and shaking their hands enthusiastically. He also shook Rock's hand (all he did was smile creepily). “AND YOU ARE?” 

After an uncomfortably long pause, he answered.

“... rock.”

“WHAT A LOVELY NAME!” Comet tried to make small talk. “WHERE DID YOU GET IT?”

“... owner was a … bratty kid. didn’t … want me. at park they … found a rock.” He pointed to his injury. “left me … there. found … much later by … good people. brought me … here.” 

The three were quiet at the revelation. 

“W-WOWIE!” Comet said, breaking the silence. “WE SHOULD GO MEET THE OTHERS.”

Count nodded. “yeah. best we get to know each other a little before we set out.”

Comet ran down the steps ahead of them and Count, Clock, Dagger and Rock took a more leisurely pace. 

By the time they got in, everyone was waiting or getting comfortable for another meeting.

Count spoke first. “so, before we go, i think it would be best if we went around in circle and said our names and a little bit about ourselves. as well as some skills so we know what we’re working with.”

There was some mumbling before Kid spoke up, volunteering to go first. 

“MY NAME IS KID AND I AM A YANDEREBERRY.” He only looked down briefly before continuing. “I’VE HAD TWO OWNERS BEFORE HERE, AND AS FOR SKILLS I GUESS I CAN BE FAIRLY STEALTHY WHEN I WANT AND CAN DEFEND MYSELF. SO I GUESS I’D BE A GOOD SCOUT.” 

He nudged Candy next to him who sighed.

“i’m candy.” Candy introduced. “i’ve been to five homes and i guess i’ll be in charge of keeping an eye on kid and keeping the peace.” 

“pocky.” Pocky greeted. “three homes. i can do healing magic and read when soul energy might be low for others.”

And on they went around the circle.

9:43:15 PM.

“i’m punz. i’ve had one home and i’ve lasted a month outdoors in the area before. i can lead us through some neat, bitty friendly routes cops can’t follow. i’d also be a good scout for food and such.”

“I AM HAPPY, ME AND COMET HAVE ONLY HAD ONE HOME. I WILL HELP WITH MORAL SUPPORTS AND PROVIDE CLOTHING WORTHY OF OUR STANDARDS, AS WELL AS THOSE OF CUSTOMERS!”

“MY NAME IS COMET AND I’D LOVE TO HELP OUT WITH THE BUSINESS END. AS WELL AS LABOR.” 

“‘m hoods.” He said, practackaly hiding in his hoodie. “two homes. i can be a lookout when everyones busy. my soul energy deficiency doesn’t really allow much so i guess i’ll help online. a-and m-maybe-write-a-book-or-something .” He rushed the last part out getting interested looks.

“TCH. I AM NAPOLEON. I SUPPOSE I WILL BE IN CHARGE OF COOKING AND CLEANING AS EVERYONE SEEMS TO HAVE NEGLECTED THE NECESSITY OF SUCH MENIAL TASKS. I’D ALSO BE WILLING TO LOWER MYSELF TO ALSO AID WITH HAPPY’S CLOTHING IF COMPENSATED. THOUGH I WOULD MUCH RATHER DO PATROLS THAN SUCH EVERYDAY TASKS.”

“I AM RASPBERRY. I HAVE HAD ONE HOME AND WOULD BE WILLING TO TAKE SHIFTS WITH NAPOLEON TO ENSURE QUALITY IS MET AND ALLOW FOR HIS PATROLLING.”

“OF COURSE QUALITY WILL BE MET.” Napoleon grumbled. “IT WILL BE DONE BY ME.”

The circle had made its way to Count and the newer bitties.

“as we all know i’m count.” Count said, interrupting before they could really get into it. “in a previous place, i was a scientist. i’ll try my best to take care of us all by keeping us hidden and well off, but feel free to bring up concerns about how i do things. i’m not your absolute leader. if someone has an idea, i’m willing to hear him out.”

There were a few nods around before the display got to Rock.

“... rock. been … on the … on the streets before.” That seemed like all he was going to say before he continued before Dagger could start. “injury caused … some side ef … side effects.” He sighed before nudging Count who explained for him. 

“he has trouble with speech, manipulating magic, is in a constant state of check and can see souls.” Count looked to Rock as everyone digested that. “that all?”

“slight … increase of … appetite.” Rock added. 

Again, Dagger was interrupted when Napoleon scoffed. “AND WHY ARE WE BRINING SUCH DEADWEIGHT?” 

Before Count could reply, Rock moved in a blur and had already restrained Napoleon in a double arm lock. He leaned in and growled lowly, almost amused. “... i’m the muscle .”

He sat up off of Napoleon with a couple giggles as he stared directly at the rude skeleton, who shivered under the look and couldn't help but rub a wrist from the strength the bitty possessed.

Dagger tisked. “IF WE COULD MOVE ON FROM SUCH TOMEFOOLERY, MY NAME IS DAGGER. AS YOU KNOW, I AND MY PARTNER COME FROM THE RINGS.”

Everyone was hooked onto his words, his red cardigan sweater standing out from the shades of gray. 

“SIX HOMES. I WILL BE ALSO AIDING IN COOKING AND CLEAN AS WELL AS SCOUTING.”

“i’m cloak. five homes and what he said.” Cloak said, looking at Dagger in subtle appreciation. Than adding as if an afterthought. “we both know how to sew and knit so i’m sure will probably also be helping- happy was it?” Happy nodded, happy stars in his eye sockets. “we’ll be helping happy.”

Dagger nodded.

9:48:58 PM.

“welp.” Count said, replacing his watch. “with that out of the way, it’s about time i worked on the online businesses. if ya need me, i’ll be in the office … though i recommend taking a few spare clothes from the back before we leave.” Count turned to the three new additions. “you guys'll be fine?”

Rock smiled and Dagger rolled his eye lights.

“tch.” Cloak grumbled. “we don’ need a babysitter. get on with it.”

Count smirked. “just checking.” He turned to Happy. “hey happy. how would you feel about lending a hand in making a bitty clothing site?”

Happy placed both hands to his cheeks. “I’D LOVE TO!!!”

***

Fresh stretched, getting a feel for his new host as he looked out at the starry sky, not exactly impressed with the sight but … content. As much as a soulless being could be.

With a dustpan Fresh swepped the deceased fells dust back into his original au to reintegrate into the code one the Frisk Reset or the Barrier shattered.

The quiet was interrupted by a ding on his Nokkai.

Now who could that be~? He didn’t give his number out to just anyone.

Flipping open the device he saw it was from a certain chatroom.

*The Freshest Hangout:  

*Colors: Yoooo somthin wack popped up. curio, broseph :)?

Fresh smiled. Oh, this was going to be very interesting. He typed a response back.

*Para: Wut’s the 411 :D?

Before he could receive a reply, he looked at the reader, eyebrow raised.

“This is private yo.” Fresh said, hiding his phone's content with a frown. “Why don’t you go read some other fic for now, huh broski?” He smirked, his shades reading WI-NK. “Maybe something else with radical lil’ old me uwu?” 

He gave a finger wave before the chapter cut shor-

Chapter Text

The next two hours went by in a blur of activity. At least for Count.

The bitties got to know the new additions, napped and even came to offer suggestions to Count who was at the computer. He only had to reassure a few of the bitties that Rock would be okay once or twice. 

He had managed to make his phone compatible with the Surface internet by routing it through his inventory (a work around through the void meant he’d never be out of signal, nor need to pay, heh). 

They also now had a website for computer science, bitty clothes and accessories, and Count had helped Hoods set up an account to self publish his book idea. Kid even popped in to offer more of what had gathered about the human's shady deals and it was added to the automatic email. 

As for money he’d have to figure out a way to convert his G as gold. But for the worth they held? Count could work with that. 

He put items he wanted to buy on a wishlist in preparation regardless.

The ad he put out received an application. They were honestly over qualified, but they were also the only ones to apply that were willing to wait for payment. After texting back and forth they were willing to also take care of their media exposure or something. It had to do with making sure that people would be led to their business. They had offered. 

They seemed like a good kid. They wanted work experience before they went off and did their own thing and felt like volunteering for a starting business was the best way to do it.

Count also added a couple spare changes of bitty clothes to his inventory and also nabbed the heating lamp while he was at it. Not that they’d have power but maybe he could buy a small generator when he picks up enough Surface currency. Or hook it up to a hamster wheel for the more energetic bitties to power it. 

12:29:38 AM.

Now was the best time to go. Gathering everyone, they stood in another meeting in the display. The street was  quiet and dark. Count had his phone open to ‘Google Maps’ and was showing them the route they would need to take. 

“ok. so we’re here.” Count pointed to a spot then expanded the map. “this is where we’re heading. on the way we have a few stops, such as this store.” Another point, this time to some place a little off route. “where they should have magnets that can deactivate any chips y’all may have.”

“WHY NOT THIS STORE?” Raspberry asked, pointing to one that was much more on the way to the factory. “IT SHOULD ALSO HAVE MAGNETS.”

“because before the chips are out, they may record their history.” Count pointed out. “this way they’ll be looking in the wrong direction.” 

Raspberry simply hummed in acknowledgement as he studied the map intensely. 

“we’ll also be passing a mama cry rescue if anyone wants to sneak off when we get around here.” Count pointed to a street just before they would reach the store. 

There were a few glances at Napoleon, but no one said anything. 

“then after that.” Count continued. “we can cut through the park to save time. that marks the halfway point.”

“that’s the park i stayed at.” Punz said, pointing. “i’ll get us through there no problemo.” 

Rock also pointed at himself with a nod to say it was the one he was at too.

Seemed like a popular place for lost bitties. Easy to lose a chaser, even if they knew your approximate location with a chip.

Count nodded his thanks. “then i’ll leave that to you. from there we cut behind the fast food stores and library to make our way to the factory. it used to produce chips, so maybe we’ll be in luck and there’ll be a few products and spices left for us to use.”

Count looked over the group of dozen bitties, seriously. 

“we’re not a small group.” Count cationed. “we’ll take the trip in chunks and go slowly to not gain attention. smaller groups of four moving at a time. we’ll even stay the day in the park if we need to, but stealth is necessary. especially these first weeks.”

Count assigned group 1 to include himself, Happy, Comet and Pocky. Group 2 Punz, Hoods, Kid and Candy. Group 3 Rock, Raspberry, Napoleon, Cloak and Dagger.

They were chosen to be the most likely to get along as well as having at least one guide and person who can act as defenders in case of trouble. 

They were all wearing dark colored clothes. Even Dagger had pulled up a hoodie over his bright red cardigan. 

“everyone understand?” Count asked the room and everyone nodded.

12:34:23 AM.

The silence was rather somber and tense as they readied themselves at the door. Hoods were put up and the door was propped open.

Count, Happy, Comet and Pocky darted out the door fist, quickly rounding a corner into an ally way. Pocky, when he reached the corner, placed a glowing hand on the wall to mark with a magic signature so small a monster wouldn’t notice it. But just enough to catch a bitties attention if they drew close. It was shaped like an arrow.

It was an added measure to prevent getting lost. It would also allow group 3 to know if Group 2 went missing. It was Pokey's suggestion. Normally such marking was left for claiming items that weren’t for sharing. A territorial thing.

Cout still wasn’t used to all the ins and outs of bitties, but they were willing to teach him. 

“This Is So Exciting!” Happy said, whisper shouting. It was quiet enough that Count didn’t think it would be a problem.

“I Know!” Comet replied. “It’s Like A Spy Movie!” 

And on they went, each group approximately 5 minutes from each other and no means to communicate. So far things were going smoothly, as they wait at their first stop after passing the rescue center. A hardware store ally.

The walk was longer than Count had guessed. They would need to be quick when they took the stuff from the store. A glance at Pocky showed he was looking dead on his feet.

3:48:39 AM.

At this rate they really would need to stay at the park. 

He leaned against the brick wall with a sigh and looked up at the sky. He still wasn't used to it. He almost felt like he would fall straight up and be swallowed to join the stars. But it was still endlessly beautiful.

After the 5 minutes of waiting he spotted group 2 closing in looking shaken, but everyone was together. Count’s eyelights drifted to Kid.

Was that blood?

… bitties don’t bleed.

***

Punz was in charge of group 2. It was easy enough to follow the magic path left by Pocky.

If Punz had let his guard down he might not have dodged that cat.

It hopped down from a garbage bin suddenly and Puns dodged with a twirl, grabbing the person behind him - Hoods - by the hands and continued to also twirl them out of range too before letting him go and facing the threat.

The cat swiped at him as he ran to the side to catch its attention. Punz used the will to flip over the strike as he summoned a bone to his hand. What he didn’t expect was for the cat to yowl in pain an flee before he had the chance to teach it he was not food.

Kid was breathing loudly and also held an attack. Seems he had cut the cat deep because there was a spray of blood on his cheek bone across his nasal ridge. 

Kid turned his now half red eye lights to Punz as they returned back to his regular blue. He bounded over with a frown, face clearly full of worry. 

“Are You Okay!?” He whisper shouted, in concern, checking Punz over.

“yeah, uh.” Punz said. “... didn’t you say we should worry when your eleylight go red.” 

“Were They …?” Kid put a hand to his chin. A little red slipped in. “Must Be Because I Wanted To Skin The Cat For Messing With Us. Not Really Anyone In Particular But … Hmm.” He stared at Punz in the eye lights. “I Don’t Feel Like You Should Worry.” His eye lights were back to blue. “Yet.”

“got it.” Punz said, sweating as the others came closer. 

The rest of the trail was uneventful.

***

Count sighed after the tale. “well at least you’re all alright.” Count gave Kid and Punz a head rub noting his eye lights did not change. “so why do you think you reacted that way?”

“It Might Also Be Caused By Thoughts And Intent Of Cruelty.” Kid explained, thoughtfully. “Rather Then Just Being Possessive. For Example.” His eye lights shaded. “Things I Was Willing To Do To That Cat. Still Am Even.” Eye lights back to normal. “But I Doubt Happy Would Be Pleased With Working A Cat Pelt Into A Design.” 

Happy fiddled with his fingers. “Not Particularly.”

The group 3 rounded a corner and they joined the larger one. They looked to be faring better than group 2.

3:58:56 AM.

“As I Thought.” Kid said. “Which Is Why I Did Not Chase Them Down.”

Count put some thought into these revelations. It seemed like the red personality wasn’t as separate as Kid seemed to think it was. If what Count thought was true … maybe it was really all Kid the entire time, but unwilling to admit it to even himself. When he had talked about it, it was like he was describing being possessed. Yet. This showed that not to be true.

Maybe Kid distancing that side of himself was some sort of why to cope. Either way, Count wasn’t going to point it out. Kid would need to come to terms with that gently.

Now that they were all together again, Count did a head Count. All had made it. Including Napoleon who was scowling and tapping his foot. No one mentioned it but it was clear that they all noted that he hadn’t gone to the shelter. 

“you guys ready to do some ‘shopping?’” Count asked with a smirk.

Using a side door, the bitties entered the store and split up to find the magnets and other things of use. Come tomorrow it would be clear they were gone and this Shop was meant to mislead pursuers. 

Some of the things they snagged were extension cords, a heating plate and pot, coffee maker, rope, seeds, a few components for the machine (things without trackers), a few starter materials for Happy, and chlorine pellets for purifying water. Counts inventory was piled full. 

This was the only time they’d get away with this after all.

They all met at the front when it was realized that was where they could find some magnets. Each of them rubbing it over their skulls in an attempt to disrupt the chips.

They also took a quick snack break with the candy section while they had the chance. Two of each group were assigned the task of carrying a couple chocolate bars to go, as Counts inventory was full.

They left quickly after that as a group for a block to avoid anyone getting caught at the store. They were met with the park and Punz took the lead, Rock taking up the rear.

4:47:47 AM.

They were led to a spot out of the way of foot traffic and surrounded by foliage. 

There were plenty of tired faces and yawns as they made a plan for look out shifts.

Count pulled a couple shirts (monster sized from when he packed in his universe) from his inventory to act as bedding between the cold ground. 

There was a chorus of ‘good nights’ and ‘sleep wells’ as Count and Cloak took the first watch.

Count watched as the golden light of the sun creeped through the leaves and grass as the wind softly played a tune of nature's music.

“thanks.” Cloak said, also watching the sunrise.

“for what?” Count asked, turning to the bitty.

Cloak returned the gaze. “for hope.”

The two sat in companionable silence as the sun painted the sky and the sound of sleeping bitties could be heard.

Chapter Text

***

The morning was peaceful.

They napped, they played, they dodged and weaved through plant life as they explored. 

The more energetic types had races - both climbing and running - and the lazier enjoyed the sun. Though a few did gather items such as berrys and dandelion leaves (edible) to eat before they set off on the rest of their journey. A few even made a couple forts out of twigs and moss.

Even with the large number of police patrolling the trail, they all managed to find ways to enjoy themselves out of sight as they waited for night to approach and foot traffic to leave. None of the humans or monsters had seemed keen on venturing too deep into the unkempt area of the park, which suited the bitties just fine for privacy.

There was even a small creek. Count set up the water purifier so they had all the clean water they needed. Not that the risk was high for magical beings to catch something, but it was better to be cautious.

11:32:49 AM.

After his watch and subsequent nap, Count had settled for climbing a tree to get a better vantage point. The sun was warm, birds chirped and bugs did their thing. It was nice. Count could almost fall asleep again.

11:46:14 AM.

The quiet was broken by the sound of something skidding across the ground followed by a shrill cry of a child. Seems a kid had fallen after having run off ahead of their parents. Count had to teleport to prevent Happy from running out to comfort the child.

“their parents are coming.” Count reassured. “they’ll be okay”

But the scowling face of the mother made Count want to backtrack his reassurances, but they let it play out. Some of the others had also gathered out of sight. Quiet and curious the bitties watched.

She was carrying a picnic basket tied shut. The other one looked more concerned and knelt down with a hand on the kid's shoulder.

“It’s okay dear.” He said. “Starlight will help.”

The grumpy one handed them the basket as the kid continued to cry.

“B-But I w-want YOU to help this time!”

“Hush. You know we’re not as good as he is.” He said, opening the basket and pulling out an exhausted looking bitty with yellow eyelights. 

Though the bitty didn’t look uncared for just going by his clean and comfortable clothes, the bags under his eye lights were telling. ‘Starlight’ looked around fast as he wasn’t in his confining space any longer. His sight landed on the crying Kid with a small and tired smile that looked like it had previously wanted to turn into a frown.

“C’mon sport.” The man asked, holding up the bitty closer to his kid. “Gimme a smile?” 

The bitty seemed to strain as it used some sort of golden magic and the child stopped crying. His sockets half lidded, he looked just about ready for a nap.

“And what do you say?” The father asked the kid.

The mother looked annoyed and impatient at that.

“... thank you Starlight.” The kid said.

“N-No problem.” The bitty smiled, before he was placed back into the basket. 

The woman nudged the kneeling man with the tip of her shoe. “Hide him before we’re caught with a printing error. You know they’ll take him away.”

The bitty went back into confinement.

Count didn’t like the idea of leaving him, like that. Helpless at the hands of those more powerful. He gripped his watch as he thought through the pros and cons.

11:49:34 AM.

A number of Counts' little group had seen the whole thing and were thinking the same thing, if the shared expressions were anything to go by. As the family set up a picnic blanket Count saw Happy's pleading gaze and finally caved.

Looked like they were getting another bitty. 

Count sighed. “alight. enough withe looks already. i’ll handle it.”

Happy smiled and jumped up and down in cheer, dragging Comet off behind him. 

“I’LL GO LET EVERYONE KNOW!” 

Punz and Hoods stayed to look out. The rest who happened to have been there went to where they had temporarily settled to meet up with the others.

Careful with his timing, Count waited till the basket was set down and gauged at which angle he could shortcut to the side of the basket and not be seen. It wasn’t exactly unattended, but the man was playing with his child and some toys. The mother went to make a call and was distracted. 

Now!

Count flattened himself up against the light brown wicker of the basket. There was a small whisper from inside.

“H-Hello?”

The bitty had noticed he was there. Count remembered about the Soul Energies and relaxed at knowing it wasn’t because he was being obvious.

“hey.” Count greeted, just as quiet or even more so. “couldn’t help notice you lookin’ a little warn. your owners treating you right?” The word ‘owner’ felt foriegn and wrong as he said it.

There was a long pause.

“... I’m fine.” Starlight said, tiredly. 

He didn’t sound like he believed it. 

“that so.” Count said, cautiously sitting down. The humans didn’t notice. “guess that means you don’t want me to bust you out huh.”

“You …” There was a sound of hope before he hesitated. “What about Jimmy?”

Jimmy, Count assumed, was the kid. Starlight really seemed like a good guy, worrying about others first. But that’s not healthy to do at the expense of oneself. The memory of the bitties' dim eye lights came to mind. Maybe it wasn’t just the humans pressuring him. Maybe … Starlight had been pressuring himself and this was the result.

“they’ll be fine.” Count reassured. “they seem like a smart kid. it’s you i’m worried about.” 

There was silence for sometime and it was pretty nerve wracking. Count expected to be caught any moment.

“You’re right.” Starlight said with a sigh. There was another pause as Count let him think it over. His answer was hesitant, but clear. “If … If you can do it safely. I’ll go.” 

“alright.” Count said, starting to cut the thing tying the basket shut. “you can always change your mind later.” Then Count explained the plan. Starlight agreed.

Unfortunately Count couldn’t shortcut into the basket and back out, nor could he short cut the bitty out without seeing him. That would have made things a lot easier.

Count counted down just so Starlight could hear him.

“three, two, one, now!” Count tipped the basket over with blue magic and Starlight ran out.

He met Count in a hug, rather than the agreed hand hold. But Count wasn’t about to complain. He had more important things to worry about.

“Wha-?” The adult didn’t get to finish the sentence before the two were back in the clearing with the other bitties. 

Count let Starlight down. He looked at all the other bitties.

There were cheers from the group and Starlight's eye lights lit up with his namesake, full of wonder.

There were embraces, headpats, introductions in a flurry of activity and excitement at meeting the new bitty. He was quick to bond with the more energetic types and even the more grouchy of the group managed a smile - small and fleeting, but there nonetheless. He seemed a lot like Comet, the baby blue, despite the eye light difference. 

Count chuckled at how he seemed to beam brighter under the positive attention. 

11:57:12 AM.

“welcome to our little family.” Count said. He felt happy with this turn of events having gone so smoothly.

Count was nearly knocked over in a bone crushing hug in return. “Thank you …”

He already looked more energetic. Healthier even. The bags under his sockets had disappeared during the brief introduction with everyone. It was … odd.

“no problem.” Count said as the hug ended.  “ya seem quite energetic now compared to when we saw you.” 

Count was both curious and relieved. Starlight, sensing the curiosity, decided to provide answers.

“Rather than Soul Energy.” He answered the unspoken question. “I seem to also sustain off of positive emotions. Not just monsters or humans, but animals as well.” His expression fell. “That family … it isn’t always a happy one. They … used me for my ability to make it one.” He looked down and added softly. “I hope Jimmy turns out okay.”

“if it makes you feel better.” Count offered, carefully. “we can watch them for as long as it takes for them to leave?”

Starlight gave a gentle smile. “I think I’d like that.”

For the next couple hours, they needed to hide more as the family searched through the foliage, but eventually the family gave up. The forested area off the paths was just to unkempt for easy movement for beings of their size.

Jimmy frowned at not finding his small friend, but gave the treeline a final wave before he left with a hope filled gaze. And even though it wasn’t the smartest move, Starlight revealed himself and waved back with teary eye sockets.

Jimmy gave a smile having spotted him before falling in line with their parents, not so sad about leaving anymore. 

1:16:37 PM.

When Count came back to join the others they found them standing around some 8x8 grid of squares drawn on the ground, twigs and stones set up in a game. 

“Checkers?” Starlight asked, interested.

“YEP!” Comet answered, making his move against Happy and taking out three twigs with a pebble.

“BLAST!” Happy said not truly angry and trying to hide a smirk. “YOU SLIPPERY SNAIL!” 

Count had a feeling Happy had intentionally taken the loss to make the game more interesting.

“COUNT!” A voice came from his blind spot.

Count was almost knocked off his footing when Kid gave him a hug from behind. A few of the bitties watched the exchange with action. Guess not everything is perfect in their little group. But when is it ever? At least they were aware of it. 

Count turned around to see excited blue eye lights meet his own smaller white ones.

“what’s up?” Count asked. 

“I FOUND SOMETHING!” Kid exclaimed, bouncing in place and hands flapping wildly. “COME SEE!”

“okay.” Count agreed, checking the time.

1:18:24 PM.

“mind if i join?” Pocky asked, appearing casual. 

He probably wanted to keep an eye socket on the two of them. Which was not a bad idea. Count should probably avoid extended times alone from Kid, but he hadn’t shown any of the signs he warned about.

Kid beamed at Pocky’s offer. Clearly he also thought it was a good idea.

“ABSOLUTELY!” Kid snatched their hands, dragging them in the direction of what he had found.

Along the way, Pocky gave a few trees some deep thought, but took the journey in silence.

After about ten minutes, Kid gestured proudly to what he had found. Pocky looked interested, but Count just gave Kid deadpan expression. 

“a hole?” Count questioned.

And indeed that was what it was. A hole at the base of a stump, filled with moss and scraps of cloth. If Count had to guess it was an animal burrow.

“NOT JUST ANY HOLE!” Kid said, proudly posing. “A BITTY HOLE.” 

Count gave the hole another look, realization dawning on his face.

“kid.” Pocky said. “why are we in some stray bitties front yard? they clearly marked the area ‘do not trespass.’ by no less than three different bitties.”

“WELL … I THOUGHT WE COULD ALSO OFFER THEM A PLACE IN OUR COLONY.” Kid said. He frowned a little. “A BITTY CAN ONLY LAST SO LONG IN THE WILD. EVEN IF THEY THINK THEY CAN.”

Count face palmed, peeking through his phalanges at the well intentioned bitty. “kid.” Count said, trying not to let too much exasperation into his voice. “while i won't turn away anyone in need, in the end it should be their choice. and there’s no telling how long it would take for them to return here to even ask.”

“or if they will, now that we showed up.” Pocky pointed out. 

Kid pouted. “JUST BECAUSE THEIR MARKS WERE A LITTLE AGGRESSIVE-”

Pocky snorted.

“-THAT DOESN’T MEAN WE SHOULDN’T GIVE THEM A CHANCE.”

“not to interrupt this important conversation.” Count said. “but a reminder that marks are a new concept for me.” 

“OH. RIGHT.” Kid said. “CAN YOU READ SOUL ENERGY? OR EVEN JUST SCENE IT?”

“only when concentrating.” Count admitted.

“TRY TO CONCENTRATE THEN AND THEN FOCUS EVEN MORE.” Kid instructed vaguely.

Count sighed but let his Soul Energy sensing ability take hold. He closed his sockets to better focus.

Kid and Pocky stood out even more to him. Kid like a lone boat on a lightly raining day just off the shore. Pocky, for lack of a better description, was like a dog uneasy to trust, but unwavering when he did. 

Count tried to concentrate harder and … he thought he could sense … something. Kinda like latent magic. No. A lot like latent magic. Focusing on it he could feel the intent as clear as a big sign in all caps and read saying ‘stay out.’

And even more concerning, with Counts ability as Judge, he could sense LV.

Count opened his socket and looked at Pocky, unimpressed. “there were marks like this along the way and you didn’t mention it?”

Pocky shrugged carelessly. “we’re not here permanently.”

Count sighed and pinched his nasal ridge. “let's just go. if they’re interested in getting in contact, i’m sure they’ll follow our trail.”

Kid beamed. “GREAT IDEA.”

“just.” Count hummed. “keep an eye out. they have LV.”

The two looked at him. 

“how ya figure?” Pocky asked. 

“one of my abilities includes knowing who has LV.” Count admitted. “the mark was close enough to a monster's magic signature for it to work.”

They started to head back in silence. Half way back Pocky stopped and examined a plant. He took careful attention to the hair like parts on the stem. Satisfied, he pulled out the plant by the roots. Or tried at least. The three of them barely managed to pull it free.

The roots were white and the stems were long. It had a cluster of tiny white flowers on the top that gave an illusion of a larger flower. 

“WHAT’S THAT?” Kid asked, now that they had managed to free the plant.

“wild carrot.” Pocky answered. “also known as queen anne's lace, among other things.”

“aren’t carrots meant to be orange?” Count panted out, curious.

Pocky shrugged, also a little out of breath. “depends on the type of carrot and soil. problem with wild carrots is they kinda look like young hemlock, so if you don’t know what to look for ya might end up with poison stew.” He pointed to the hair like follicles. “hair is a good sign. purple spots are a bad one. though there are also purple carrots, so, yeah.”

He trailed off, seeming to realize he was rambling.

“WOWIE!” Kid exclaimed. “YOU SURE KNOW A LOT ABOUT PLANTS.”

Pocky embarrassedly scratched a cheekbone. “my last owner ran a plant nursery. picked things up.” 

“good skill to have.” Count lightly elbowed Pocky, who looked away at the praise to hide a mounting smile of pride. 

1:35:48 PM.

The way back was filled by Kid asking about random plants to see what Pocky knew about them and Pocky answering. Pocky could only identify about 60%, but that was still impressive. Sometimes they’d even grab the edible ones.

Pocky had decided not to be so passive aggressive to the yandereberry, despite Kid's condition. 

When they got back, there was the sound of an argument and Count sighed. The  two looked worried but were laden down with the food they had gathered.

“i got it.” Count left the other two to put the food into their stache. 

He saw Starlight trying to calm a Napoleon facing off with Cloak who stood protectively in front of a glaring Dagger. 

“Please.” Starlight tried. “Let’s just calm-”

“STAY OUT OF THIS!” Napoleon growled, causing Starlight to back down. He was shaking at the loud voice. Napoleon snapped his attention back at the other two. “IT WAS JUST A HARMLESS QUESTION-”

“harmless my ass.” Cloak glowled back. “he said he didn’t want to talk about it!” 

“WE’RE ALL CURIOUS.” Napoleon said in reply, scowling. “SO WHY DON’T YOU JUST ANSWER!”

“I WILL NOT.” Dagger put his hands on his hips, leaning forward in intimidation. “IT ISN’T YOUR BUSINESS.”

Cloak gave a sharp smile. “what he said.”

Napoleon stomped a foot. “OF COURSE IT'S MY-” 

Count gave a sharp whistle, interrupting. He rubbed the crack on his radius, now caught in the center of attention again.

It really shouldn’t have been a surprise that a few arguments would pop up. It was a surprise it took so long. 

A look around showed no one wanted to get involved. And judging by their expressions, it might have been out of fear. NOt everyone was present. Punz, Candy, Rock, Pocky and Kid were elsewhere.

“what’s all this about?” Count asked with narrowed sockets. 

There goes his plan of napping as soon as he got back.

Napoleon answered quickly. “I MERELY ASKED HOW MANY FIGHTS HE HAS BEEN IN. IT’S BY FAR NOT THE MOST INVASIVE THING I COULD ASK.” Napoleon turned to glare at the two. “I COULD HAVE ASKED HOW MANY YOU DUSTED.” 

Both Cloak and Dagger tensed in anger.

“why you insufferable little brat .” Cloak squeezed out.

Count sighed, but his annoyance was growing. 

“napoleon.” Count stated. “respect their boundaries. cloak, dagger, you don’t have to answer his question.” Count turned to Napoleon, with a raised brow. “they’ll if and when they're ready. do i make myself clear?”

“BUT-”

Count sent out a little magic pressure. “am i clear?” Count let his eye lights disappear.

“YES.” Napoleon hissed out. 

“great.” Count said, no longer threatening him. “in that case, you mind going on patrol with pocky for edible plants? it’s an important job, but i’m sure someone like you would be up to standard.”

Napoleon scowled to hide the pleased feeling at the praise. “I SUPPOSE I COULD MANAGE.” 

1:39:15 PM.

When he turned to the other two he saw Starlight approach them with his golden aura. Clock grabbed his wrist. “don’t-” He sighed, relaxing. “don’t worry about it. you’re still recovering idiot.”

“Right.” Starlight said, stopping. “Sorry. I just wanted to help.”

“tch.” Cloak let go and turned away and leaving. “learn ta help yourself first.” 

“you okay?” Count asked Dagger, hopping up on a rock to be the same height.

Dagger nodded, though his arms were crossed. “I SHOULD SUFFICE.” 

Count surprised him with a head rub. “good.” Count hopped back down to check on what food they had so far, leaving a slightly fluster boss bitty in his wake. Starlight chose to follow him.

Everyone who was present seemed to relax more now that the exchange was over. 

Candy was meant to be in charge of internal disputes, Count recalled. But it couldn’t exactly be helped if he wasn’t there when a fight broke out.

“Good job back there.” Starlight said, nervously flustered. “I’m not used to anyone fighting my magic often.”

Count pat him on the back. “well, you’re recovering. you can’t be expected to hold the world up all on your own.”

Starlight nodded, absently kicking a twig. “I guess you're right. I’m just. I’m used to being more help.”

Count nudged his shoulder. “it’s fine. there's always the future.” The phrase gave Count a bittersweet feeling.

1:41:56 PM.

They came up to the food where Rock had been most the day napping and guarding their stuff. He was looking in the distance and didn’t turn around when he greeted them with a wave, noticing their approach without seeing them.

“sup?” Count asked, looking in the direction Rock was intently staring. 

Rock pointed into the distance. “single … bitty. Not ours … hungry … waiting. LV 3.”

Counts attention to the distance redoubled. “you’re sure?” Count asked, pointlessly. 

Rock nodded. 

Count was quick to think of a plan. “starlight, i want you to conceal yourself and if things go bad inform the others. rock, stay here while i go bring the bitty a peace offering of food so they don’t get any ideas about this pile when we aren’t paying attention.” 

They were both quick to nod and follow orders. 

1:42:19 PM.

Count thought that maybe, just maybe this was one of the bitties living in that hole. 

Count looked over the pile and decided to grab some of the berries as they were easy to carry in full view. 

Count stepped off in the direction Rock had indicated, leaves and pine crinkling underfoot. The only footwear in Counts possession was his fuzzy slippers stached awas in his inventory. They wouldn’t do much against the elements and Count would feel guilty being the only one with shoes. 

Count activated his soul energy reading ability to try and help locate the bitty, while at the same time tried to send out the intent of non harm and a desire for contact. It only took a few times of going back and forth by the same tree where the almost cloaked energy was from that Count found a hole. 

1:45:34 PM.

Poking his head to see in he immediately had to dodge as something black aimed to stab him through the socket. Any slower and he’d have ended up with a disposition like Rock.

It was dark in the hole. Darker than the light from the sun would suggest it should be.

Chapter Text

After Count dodged the tendril, he gave the hole an unamused expression.

From the corner of his eye light he saw Starlight in the trees getting ready to get the others. It was too soon to get back up as Count still felt in control of the situation.

“there’s no need for that.” Count scolded the new bitty, loud enough to double in getting Starlight to pause. 

When no more attacks came from the hole, only a threatening growl, he continued at a gentler tone. 

“my friend spotted you and thought you might be hungry. we have food to spare, so there’s no need to rob us or whatever it was you were planning. i even brought some berries if you don’t want to go back to camp for the food.”

Slowly, a dark skeleton emerged from the small hole. Dark skeletal hands gripped the bark as he pulled himself out, showing a face Count recognised from the letters making him a little cautious. A Nightmare bitty. He looked rough, with scares and blurry eye light, the other socket covered with goop. His clothes were tattered, but got the job done. He … must have been out here a while.

He seemed skittish and nervous, but the telling sound of hunger seemed to have him move forward, tentatively reaching for the food. His one working eye light looking for any hint of betrayal as he glared in suspicion.

Count decided not to hold any judgment against him before he got his story. 

Count couldn’t help the nervous smile that came up on his skull as he handed him the berries. The guy just screamed ‘fear’ even in his weakened state.

“so what’s your name?” Count asked.

The bitty snatched the offered food from a cautious distance with a scowl. His eyelight never stopped searching Count. He seemed to be trying to stand up taller, be more intimidating.

Had the other not been so warn, Count had a feeling he would be putting up more of a fight than a single surprise attack. 

“Vanta.” Vanta introduced simply. 

He shoved a whole berry into his mouth as he stared at Count unblinking. His eye light seemed to wobble at the sweet flavor for a moment and his shoulder relaxed minutely.

“call me count.” Count offered his own namesake. He held out a hand to shake but at the flinch, Count dropped it.

“You …” Vanta began hesitantly, fiddling with the other two berries. “You’re willing to share your food. So what’s the catch?” 

He thought there was a catch and still ate it. He must really have been desperate for food. 

“just.” Count decided to come out and say it. “maybe consider joining our group, but there's no obligation. just thought i’d lend a hand.” At the disbelieving look Count added. “also didn’t want to be robbed of everything if we let our guards down remember. and we did trespass.”

Vanta stared at him with his one functional socket narrowing further. “So you are one of the bitties that found our house.” 

It wasn’t a question. It also confirmed that it was his burrow they had come upon.

“it would seem so.” Count admitted. “sorry about that.”

“... and i can take as much food as i want?” Vanta asked, tightening his grip on the berries. His eye light wobbled again. This time probably due to emotion.

“only what we can handle.” Count said, trying not to be robbed of it all through careless promises. Even if he sorely wanted to give the bitty everything he wanted. “we’ve got 13 bitties besides myself to feed.” 

“... I’ll think about it.” Vanta said, trying not to appear surprised at the numbers.

He probably wanted to speak with his associates before accepting the offer. There were at least two other markers when he went there. But then again, those could just be the leader's signatures. Much like how only Pocky, Punz and Cloak set up markers on their path.

“well, don't take too long.” Count warned. “we’re only going to be here for the day. when night comes properly, we have places to be.”

“Where?” Vanta asked, quickly. He seemed to latch onto the idea of there being a better place to stay. Or perhaps he was worried Count was trying to trick him into returning into captivity. 

“an abandoned factory.” Count said. “passed the fast food stores and library. if you ever change your mind about joining us, just follow the arrow marks.” 

“I’ll think about it.” Vanta said, again. He was being very careful not to promise anything.

The way he shifted his feet slightly suggested he wanted to end this conversation but wasn’t willing to be the first to turn his back. Fair. 

“no problem.” Count said, nonchalant with a head nod and step back. “you know where to find us when you decide.”

Count shortcut back to Rock, leaving the bitty to make his decision. 

1:56:01 PM.

Rock said with a smirk. “he’s … interested. might … come back … soon.”

“in that case.” Count said stretching. “let's get a pile ready for some hungry bitties.”

Count gave a lopsided smirk as Starlight climbed down and landed next to the two. He was panting hard having to have run full speed to catch up but seemed to have enjoyed the exercise. 

“I can help!” Starlight offered cheerily. He looked pretty intent on being able to do something.

“alright.” Count agreed. “but if you need a break, just take it.”

He nodded eagerly.

***

Approximately ten minutes previously.

Starlight was a good climber. After he was given his orders he was quick to follow Count through the canopy of interlocking branches. It was freeing. Being up so high and away from his problems, if only for a little while.

Count started to go in circles and Starlight hunkered down, realizing they were getting close. 

When Count almost got impaled, his soul nearly stopped as he got ready to get the others. 

But he paused when Count very clearly and obviously seemed to not be in any distress as he began to talk the bitty out. Starlight settled back to his position. His nerves must be getting to him. This was the first time he’s ever done something like this. 

When he first laid eye lights on the bitty, he was intimidated. He’d never seen a bitty like that before. Was … was he like him? A printing error? As far as he knew, he’s never met one before.

Starlight … really wanted to get to know this mysterious figure. Wanted to ask about the strange negative aura that seemed to weakly sorowned him. 

When Count left, Starlight was quick to follow back, excited for the possibility of a new bitty. He wouldn’t feel so awkward being the only new bitty in the group.

He decided to help how he could for now. And that was to help set aside a pile of food, just for the new and strange bitty!

Hopefully it would convince him to stay. Starlight would always welcome a new friend.

***

Vanta saw as the new bitty before him took a shortcut his tired eye lights roamed the area but couldn’t catch sight of him again. Setting the berries down, he climbed the tree to scout as he had been. He saw that they were organizing the food and putting a pile off to the side just in case Vanta accepted. 

Almost as if they already knew he had no choice but too.

He sighed. “Idiots.” Not that he was complaining. Sharing food with a stranger was dangerous. Before you knew it, they would always ask for more. 

His stomach area ached with a growl of hunger as if to prove a point. He wasn’t as good at foraging as the others.

A couple nights before, their food had been raided by a different group of bitties, almost feral in their demeanor, and so low on magic they could only use physical weapons or risk dusting. Vantas' little group was starting to near that point even, but he refused to stoop so low.

He had to cut off a low growl at the thought. 

It was … hard outside. But it was better than where they had been.

They’d been working hard to replenish what they had lost. But unfortunately they only had a basic idea of what was edible, limiting what they could scavenge.

One of the members of his group had a … voracious appetite. But he easily made up for it with his unparalleled strength and hunting skills, once even managing to fell a wild rabbit once. 

They had eaten well for days after. The fire almost got them caught, but it was worth it to preserve the delicacy. 

The little group of his had escaped from a ring 3 months back and were starting to feel the strain of avoiding humans and monsters. There was only so much Vanta could do to turn their negativity into soul energy. He was reluctant to admit they couldn’t go much longer without a stronger source of soul energy. Not to mention the food.

And then that bitty showed up, not just with the offer of food, but the offer to join them. From the way he spoke, he must be the Alph- the leader. And from what Vanta could read of his soul energy, had the power to keep his position. 

It was odd. That bitty was odd. His soul energy had seemed to fluctuate between frequencies. One average and unimpressive, the other yawning like an abyss equal to, or even greater than a boss monster. Though, that could be because Vanta was more sensitive to soul energy than other bitties. 

Because Count wasn’t a human or monster, Vanta seriously considered the offer simply for the soul energy as he trailed back to his shared burrow. First, he would accept the food, and see how well the other bitties were treated before making any promises. He wanted to know what he was getting into. Already he could tell they were pretty lax with the chain of command. That or it was still in development. 

The only other bitty group he knew (aside from the farrells) in the park were more lenient with their territory. But they had never offered to share food or assistance directly. It was more of an unspoken agreement to keep out of each other's way. Those bird brains were connected to an elderly blind human that came by to feed the pigeons everyday, unsuspecting in her aid to the independent bitties. Their methods were just too human friendly to get along well.

Having made it to the burrow, he poked his head in and saw his crew where he had left them when they had found out someone had entered so close to their house. He soaked up their worry while waiting for him to come back.

There were three bitties. And a small pile of food that they had managed to gather for the day.

Vantas gaze met with a white skull with black tears and a nervous smile, a tall and gangly Papyrus type with crooked teeth, and a bitty that resembled an Edge - save for the fact that his bottom half was reminiscent of a coral snake. A lamia or naga, they’ve heard him called by his owner.

All printing Errors. All valuable for their ability to kill or render their opponents helpless in the Rings. All escapees trying to carve out a place away from those filthy humans and monsters. And realizing it wasn’t as easy as they thought it would be those couple months ago. 

The lamia blept a tongue out to taste the air. His sockets widened slightly. “so you found the fuckers.” He said, now doubt ‘smelling’ Count having been near Vanta and the berries.

“They weren’t exactly hiding their trail.” Vanta said, rolling his eye light. He placed the rest of the berries in the pile.  “They seem to have at least a dozen in their group and are doing well.” 

The lamia whistled, red, black and yellow tail curling around the other two more. The stripes were disorienting when he was in motion. 

“Everyone ate?” Vanta checked, making sure they weren’t skipping as he grabbed something else to eat for variety. He started on a second berry.

The rule was if you find it first, you have a claim to it and share what is left. So far it’s been working.

“caught a field mouse earlier.” The lamia answered, sockets half lidded. “i’ll be good for daysss.”

He always got lethargic after he ate a big meal. He was lucky to have a slower metabolism and not need as much as the others.

The other two simply nodded, but Vanta caught how the Papyrus type looked away. He felt his guilt. Vanta sighed, nudging more food over to him, knowing he was probably trying to hold back for their sake. The Papyrus embarrassedly ate more after having been caught. 

Vanta nodded before continuing. “They offered a deal.” 

The Papyrus rung his hands in worry. “WHAT DID THEY ASK? A-ARE WE GETTING KICKED OUT?” 

Vanta placed a hand on the gentle giant's arm, easing some of the worry into energy, helping him relax. He was always worrying - both a blessing and  curse for their little group. Just like how the other two could be angry at the drop of a hat. 

“They’re … nice.” Vanta decided to say, thinking it over. “They gave us this food and are willing to part with more.”

“what’s the catch?” The ‘tear’ stained skeleton asked, stabbing their makeshift ‘bench’ (branch) with a glass shiv he had grown attached to, sharpened like a knife and handle sanded to be smooth. It was a nervous habit of his. 

“He asked that we consider joining them.” Vanta explained, sitting down on the other side of the bitty and leaning on him, siphoning off that negative energy. His anxiety was more of the frustrated type. “We have till nightfall to get the food.” He pointed to the damage the skeleton was causing to their seat and said disgruntled, trying to keep the growl out of his voice. “We’ve had this discussion.”

He looked at the damage before pocketing the glass. “oops.” 

Vanta just sighed.

“So.” Vanta said in a tone that caught their attention. “All in favor of joining the well off bitty colony? After some spying of course.”

***

Pocky, Napoleon and Kid returned to find two piles of food instead of one.

Interesting. 

Pocky hung back and watched as Napoleon stomped forward and dropped the food they had gathered in front of Count. 

“AND WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?” He demanded, arms crossed and foot tapping.

Count blinked, not impressed. “found some more bitties. they didn’t look too well off.” 

Napoleon scowled. “AND WHY WOULD THAT EXCUSE GIVING AWAY OUR VALUABLE RESOURCES?” 

Count replied calmly. “making allies can only be a positive.” 

Napoleon stomped a foot, “OH SURE . WHY DON’T WE ADVERTISE OUR WEALTH SO THEY CAN STAB US IN THE BACK FOR IT.” He huffed as he walked away. 

“what’s his problem?” Count asked no one on particular. 

3:04:13 PM.

Pocky shrugged. “he’s a chief. not much to it.”

“so he’s meant to be an ass?” Count quirked a boney brow.

Pocky let out a surprise snort at the curse and Rock chuckled.

“Wha- Count!” Starlight said, putting his hands on his hips. He gave a very disappointed parental expression.

“OH MY GOD.” Kid said, shaking his head even as he smirked. “NO NEED TO USE THAT LANGUAGE. SOME PEOPLE LIKE THE IDEA OF A POCKET TSUNDERE. HE’LL WARM UP EVENTUALLY.”

In the distance they heard a denial. “I’M NOT A TSUNDERE!” 

Kid nodded knowingly and gave a stage whisper. “WHAT TSUNDERE THING TO SAY.”

“pfft.” Count tried not to laugh at the serious face Kid was using.

Pocky smirked. “don’t let the pocket gordon ramsey rattle ya too hard.”

“heh.” Count replied. “no skin off my nose.”

“You don’t have a nose.” Starlight deadpanned.

They were interrupted by the sound of rustling leaves and turned to see the bitties hesitantly stepping into the small clearing. 

In the lead was Vanta. Trailing behind were three bitties that Count had never seen before. 

The first one to catch his eye light was the Papyrus for obvious reasons. His soul practically begging him to comfort and heal him. Yet the way he moved was measured, calculated. Predatory even. Count couldn’t tell if he was afraid of him or for him. 

The second was one he recognized as being very similar to Cloak, the Edgy. The differences, however, stood out as clearly as the near two feet of striped snake ecto trailing behind the bitty from his hip bones. 

And finally, trailing a little behind and looking around almost absently, was a bitty that resembled Killer - one of Nightmares members.

Count couldn’t help but find it amusing how even as bitties, they seemed to find each other. 

“This is Fang.” Vanta introduced, pointing to a tired looking lamia, “Johnny.” A point to the Killer bitty that waved, makeshift knife in hold, “And Bruce.” He said pointing to the Papyrus. 

Count, Rock, Pocky, Kid and Starlight introduced themselves. 

“E-EXCUSE ME BUT …” Bruce pointed at Kids stained clothes, not desturbed but curious. The stutter just seemed to be from all the new faces. “I-IS THAT BLOOD?” 

All eye lights were on Kid. Starlight's jaw dropped only just noticing it on the dark clothes. 

Kid sighed. “YES. THERE WAS A CAT THAT THOUGHT WE HAD MORE MEAT THAN ADVERTISED.” That seemed to be more than enough of an explanation. 

Fang the lamia leaned against his coils and he whistled. “You’re type don’ usually get their hands dirty.” A smirk as he blipped his tongue out. “is that a smidge of lv i smell~?”

Kids hands clenched into fists. “WELL YOU KNOW WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT ASSUMING. I’M A YANDEREBERRY .” Kid practically spat the admission out. 

The quartets eye lights went out. Starlight looked confused. 

“... What’s a Yandereberry?” Starlight asked. 

“A possessive and murderous type of printing error.” Vanta said, tendrils nervously twitching. “I've … met your type before.” The bitty had been completely infatuated with their owner and hell bent on killing Vanta in the Ring. Vanta won the fight. Barely.

Starlight looked at Kid at the revelation. Kid said nothing in his defense, looking into the distance and fiddling with his fingers. 

Bruce seemed to want to give Kid a hug but decided against it.

Johnny the Killer bitty however, took a curious step forward. “aw, the boss don’ mean any disrespect.” He slung an arm over Kid. “it’d be pretty hypocritical of us to judge ya for being a murder type. after all …” He squeezed a little tighter. “we’re all murderers.” 

“YES I CAN TELL.” Kid said almost boardly. His voice hardened. “NOW KINDLY LET GO.” 

Johnny backed off with hands raised, a smile still present. 

“i was aware of your lv.” Count admitted before continuing, ignoring the rusling as the others approached. Napoleon must have spread the news. “all i want to know, is where you got it. though you can skip the details.” 

The four seemed to have a silent discussion in their gazes before Vanta turned to answer Count. 

“The Ring.”

Chapter Text

“ nO! ” Error gasped at the revelation. He had acquired his favorite snacks and was watching the portal at the edge of his bean bag. “tHaT DaMn RiNg AgAin.”

He was loath to admit it, but he had gotten invested in the story of the bitties' bid for escape. There was so much tension, surprise twists and drama - he scarcely knew where to focus the screen. 

He only had to leave to destroy one more corrupt AU while he was watching.

Flowey had also been giving the portal a watchful eye at this point as there wasn’t much to do in the Antivoid. Error had been kind enough to leave it open when he had left. 

Somehow over the past few hours Flowey had managed to convince Error to play a game of checkers with him. Flowey clicked the next piece forward and Error absently moved his own piece.Flowey jumped at the chance to claim three of Error’s pieces. 

“Ha ha ha!” Flowey cackled. “Add to my legion of monarchs! Your armies are mine!” 

“yEaH yEaH.” Error said absently, kinging Flowey's piece. 

Flowey huffed and rolled his eyes looking at the portal once more. “What’s even so interesting about this, uh, AU was it? There is barely any violence. It’s boooooring.”

Error scoffed. “Oh SoRrY, My PrInCe.” Error said lying it on heavily with sarcasm. “Is My fOrM Of EntErtAInmEnt nOt Up tO stAndArd?” He turned and gave a manic grin.

Flowy glared back. “ Don't call me that.” 

“TcH. yOU’rE nO fUn AnYmOrE. WhErE’d ALL thAt fEAr gO?” Error said, scowling (pouting) and moving his last piece into danger to get the game over with. 

Flowey gave him a deadpan expression. “I saw you knit baby clothes before sneaking it into a struggling single parents bag.” 

It was Error’s turn to huff. “DOEsn’t mEAn I’m nOt sTiLl dAngErOUs. YOU’rE LUcky thE vOIcEs wAnt yOU tO stIck ArOUnd A LIttLE LOngEr.”  

“The voices this, the voices that.” Flowey said unimpressed, withholding another eye roll as he reset the board before looking him in the eye. “What is it you want Error?”

Error broke the gaze and looked at his hands as if to really consider the question.

“I jUst wAnt tO wAtch mY shOwS.” Error said surprisingly quiet before looking back at the screen.

Flowey sighed and put the game away seeing as Error wasn’t in the mood any more. Even IF the show was boring … There was something strangely amusing watching those weird mini Sans and Papyrus’s running around trying to survive. 

He’s surprised the trashbag hadn’t caved already. There was something about watching him from the screen that … made Flowey kinda want to root for him. 

“Hmm…” 

“WhAt?”

Flowey smiled shyly, hoping to alleviate his boredom. “Do you … wanna destroy that Ring place together?” 

Error couldn’t prevent the smile from creeping up his face. “YoU KnOw whAt … I kIndA dO.”

***

Back in Bittytale_Copy38 …

“The Ring.” Vanta admitted to the gathering group of bitties. 

The words hung heavy over the air as some more bitties gathered to meet the new group additions. Likely lured by the LV and Napoleon running his mouth to the others.

“shit.” Clock mumbled, seemingly trying to disappear into his fluffy hoody, having heard the last bit of their conversation. Having experienced it himself, he and Dagger were the most sympathetic. Even if they weren’t likely to show it. 

There were some mixed reactions as bitties continued to enter the food area. 

Most winced or grimaced at the admittance. Whereas Pocky was giving them suspicious gazes, much like how he had with Kid when learning about his situation. 

Looking over the group it was clear no one wanted to break the silence first. Their ‘little group’ wasn’t looking so little anymore after Count did a head count going over their names in his head. 

Kid, Candy, Happy, Comet, Hoods, Punz, Pocky, Raspberry, Cloak, Dagger, Rock, Starlight … possibly adding Vanta, Johnny, Bruce, Fang. 

Napoleon seemed to be off sulking somewhere  all on his own, likely still annoyed about Counts impulsive decision to adopt every bitty in trouble he comes across. 

Yet Count just shrugged at the declaration of where the LV was procured. Deciding he might as well be the one to continue the conversation. 

“ok.” He said simply. 

“Ok?” Vanta asked, baffled. “That’s all you gotta say?” 

Count shrugged again. “yep. it’s in the past now. i doubt you enjoyed the experience-” Vantas eye light flickered away for less than a second tellingly and Johnny smirked. The other two cringed and nodded nearly imperceptibly. “-and even if you did.” Count’s eye lights went out as he focused on the guilty bitty. “we won’t tolerate infighting with the intent to kill.” 

Count kept his magic pressure discreet so that he wouldn’t alert any nearby monsters. It was still enough to prove a point as all four bitties immediately avoided his gaze and acted a little more passive. Which was weird how easily they gave in. Though Vanta bristled and clenched his teeth. 

“Understood.” Vanta growled out. 

Count checked the time, appeased by their willingness to cooperate.

5:02:57 PM.

Both Bruce and Fang seemed to relax at the fact that Count would be willing to step in for the safety of those in his care.

Johnny, however, whined. “not even to spar?”

Count blinked at the Killer double. “sparing is okay as long as there’s someone to step in if you plan to go hard.”

Fights were ingrained in Count’s culture as a way to get to know one another and communicate intent. Not that Count ever really participated - one person with ill intent would do him in, even a mild annoyance. He could only assume it was similar here, even if the closest he’d seen to bitties sparing was a half-hearted toss of a bone attack while in the display. Excluding the time Pocky tried to impale Kid that is, but that’s not really sparing.

Johnny fist pumped. “yes!” He pointed to his sockets then to Kid, a mischievous grin on his skeletal face. “i’ve never fought your type before.” 

Kid rolled his eyelights with a sigh. “FINE.” He surprisingly agreed. “LATER THOUGH.” He tried not to smirk. “IT WOULDN’T BE A FAIR FIGHT WITH YOU SO WORN DOWN.”

Johnny’s own smile twitched up as he started to fiddle with his glass knife. The light caught in such a way as to create a mini rainbow.

“confidant.” Johnny said, impressed. “i like.”

Count decided to be amused over the development, rather than worried. At least they were getting along?

Bruce shifted on his feet, hunched over into himself as he looked over to Count. 

“A-ARE YOU NOT WORRIED THAT MAY BE AN EXCESS USE OF MAGIC OR ENERGY?” Bruice asked hesitantly. 

“as long as i’m fine, i can recover your energy consumption.” Count explained with a smile. 

As a Boss Monster, Count, according to the internet, should be able to handle taking care of at least 100 bitties on his own as long as he stays healthy. More than that would become a strain on his soul. At least that was according to a site with FAQ’s about starting up your own bitty center or rescue. And that wasn’t even considering Count had undergone experimentation to make him stronger, or the fact that the bitties were limiting their use of magic. 

Kid with a smile jumped onto Count’s side in a hug. “HE HAS A SUSTAINABLE MONSTER SOUL!” 

Count chuckled at their startled and surprised expressions. “heh. yeah. long story.” He said, scratching a cheekbone.

Vantas socket narrowed. “So that’s how.” He muttered under his breath to himself, no doubt referring to how they were all so healthy. 

“yep.” Count said, popping the ‘p’ as Kid let go of the hug. “take it this means you’re thinking about joining?” Count sked with an outwardly calm smile. 

Vanta rubbed a hand down the front of his skull and sighed. “Give us until you’re leaving to make a decision.” He peeked through his fingers. “Consider today a trial run.” 

“fair enough.” Count agreed.

Vanta seemed to eye up Count before averting his gaze again. What was with this new group and trouble with eye contact?

“I hope we can all get along!” Starlight beamed, holding out a hand for Vanta to shake, getting over his shock at all the revelations recently. He was trying to break the awkward silence. “I also just joined today!”

Hesitantly the other reciprocated the hold. As soon as their hands grasped each other they seemed to freeze, locking eyelights. Both each widening sockets with something akin to shock.

Count wondered what the hold up was. It wasn’t like they made mini joy buzzers for bitties … wait did they?

5:06:17 PM.

Meanwhile, as Count was distracted by the thought, the two bitties felt as if something they had been missing their whole lives had been found. As if, up to this point, they had been wearing their shoes on the wrong feet. Not that they wear shoes. And not in a romantic way either. It was like they had found … a brother?

Starlight seemed to snap out of it first. “Can I … hug you?” 

By this point the group of bitties had gotten comfortable in the area and were having their own conversations while Count was dealing with the new bitties. 

Vanta looked down but nodded. That was all the prompting Starlight needed before practactly throwing himself at Vanta. Vanta slowly reciprocated the tight embrace after a brief bout of tensing. The two held on as if afraid something would tear them apart. 

This, needless to say, confused the other Count and Kid who had remained by his side. As well as Pock who was still ‘secretly’ watching them for any signs they might turn violent.

Starlight started tearing up. “Wh-why do I feel like I know you?”

“I … I don’t know.” Vanta said, also confused. “I don’t know.” 

It was then that Count finally recognised Starlight, being startled back out of his thoughts of miniature prank tools. He was a Dream . He felt like slapping his forehead - how could he have missed that for so long? A Dream and Nightmare … why didn’t he see it sooner? But, even so, this was unexpected. Wouldn’t they hate each other?

“you’re counterparts.” Count let slip in his surprise and they turned to him in question. He looked at each of them. “dream and nightmare bitties.” 

“You … know our types?” Vanta asked in surprise.

Count responded with a so-so motion. “kinda.” 

“But …” Starlight began. “I thought counterparts were only Sans and Papyrus types?” 

Count shrugged. “you guys are a special case. i can only think of one other set up like that.” 

“What?” The two asked, curiously. The two had stopped hugging so fiercely and instead had opted to hold hands looking at Count with interest. Starlight happily swaying their linked hands a little to Vantas embarrassment … not that he was stopping it.

“ink and error.” Count answered. “where you two are positivity and negativity, they would be like creation and destruction.” 

“error’s not a bitty though.” Pocky pointed out, catching the attention of some of the others who were tuning back into the conversation. 

Ah right. Count almost forgot their little audience. The other bitties looked curious at Count and Pocky’s contradicting statements, especially the ones that had met Error. Johnny, Bruce, Cloak and Dagger had no idea who that was. Fang just looked half asleep, even as the lowering sun now past its peak hit him in the sockets.

“only there are error bitties.” Count said, pulling out his phone to the surprise of the newbies. He leaned it against a tree to easily see the screen as he tapped away as the others crowded around in a semicircle. 

Count pulled up the picture he had seen before. An Error bitty being snuggled into a woman's bossem. 

“heh heh.” Cloak and Fang said simultaneously, decidedly not looking at the bitty. “nice~” They gave each other surprised looks before grinning at each other. Cloak got a light wack to the head from Dagger and Fang got an amused nudge from Johnny, plus a glare from Vanta. Count just deadpanned at their antics.

Johnny, Bruce, Starlight and Vanta gave the picture a curious gaze at the obviously fellow printing error. Pocky and Kid, as well as many from the Return Display reacted with surprise at seeing the familiar skeleton as a bitty. 

Meanwhile this was the first time Cloak and Dagger saw what Error looked like.

“but … how?” Punz asked. 

Count just shrugged and shot his own question out. “the real question is … how are bitties made in the first place?” 

It was a question Count had already tried - and failed - to look into. There were only theories as the company did not disclose the process to the public.

“ALL WE KNOW IS WE WAKE UP IN A CONTAINER WITH OTHERS OF OUR TYPE.” Kid said for Counts benefit. 

Johnny chuckled, but it was without humor. “when i first woke up, i was alone in a crate being sent to the ring's black market. other cages lining the van full of other violent printing errors.”

The other printing error escapees nodded. 

Count blinked. “wait.” Count ran a hand over his skull. “so you were taken directly from the factory?” 

That … was worrying. Either this was all part of some big corporate scheme, or the factories had been infiltrated. Is that why printing errors kept getting censored? That it really was some big conspiracy? Stars, this universe.

Bruce nodded, not making eye contact. “IT WAS A RATHER F-FAST PROCESS.” He took a deep breath. “WE WERE … F-FORCED INTO A DEBUT FIGHT, KNOWING ONLY THAT IF WE DIDN’T COMPLY … WELL. BOTH COMPETITORS WOULD BE D-DUSTED.”

“From there we were put on auction.” Vanta said, frowning, taking over while giving the larger bitty a comforting pat. “Trained by our new owners and some forced to buff our LV for a quick power boost.” Vanta chuckled deeply without humor, a twisted smile upon his teeth as his tendrils thrashed. 

So if Count was guessing right … and the Rings were directly tied to the factory … they probably sold the printing errors like that to increase their rarity and worth. That was just- 

“stars that’s awful.” Hoods said, taking the words out of Counts skull. He shifted his feet and avoided eye contact. “glad you made it out.”

Vanta just nodded at the attempts of comfort. 

Count … was going to do some research into this when they got to their destination. Not that he wasn’t already. But it was starting to look a lot bigger than he had initially thought. 

The conversation seemed to peter out at the heavy topic and Count put away his phone.

Count glanced at Rock who had been staring at Bruce for some time now, causing the mini giant to fidget more. Before Count could ask what was up, Rock stood up and walked over to Bruce who seemed to flinch when he held out a hand. 

However, it successfully managed to bring everyone out of such depressing thoughts.

Slowly, with confusion evident on his skull, Bruce took Rock's hand gently in his larger and Rock dragged Bruce over to the food pile, pulling him into a seated position.

“... eat.” Rock pointed at the pile. 

Bruce flustered at being caught staring at the food, but did as he was asked.

“... TH-THANK YOU.” 

Johnny smirked. “welp. guess it’s grub time.” 

5:12:42 PM.

Bit early for dinner, but Count wasn’t complaining. It was almost enough to make him forget they were missing someone. Though if Count looked closely, he could see Raspberry saving a spot, a worried expression as he sat beside Punz. The slight frown as Pocky also noted the action. Kids discrete look between him and that empty space before taking a seat. 

He would be back. He just needed some time. Count convinced himself.

They got comfortable, small talk starting to creep into the open air. Pretty soon Count was the last one to pick a spot and was standing watching over the group. 

After some thought, Count decided to eat next to the newbies. Get their soul energies up. Then he could have another nap. And finally, they would move on to their destination. 

He could feel the sigh of relief from the others as he leaned against Bruce and Vanta, Starlight still basically attached to Vantas side. Fang didn't eat, but did curl around them all for a nap, acting as a back rest. Johnny used his knife to cut some of the stuff up with Fang as he started to organize the food into something resembling a meal, before Johnny went handing it out to those that didn’t get food themselves. Surprisingly thoughtful for a mini of a multiverses most wanted. 

It seemed fairly appreciated and even Raspberry and Dagger joined in to help.

In the distance from the wooded area the occasionally city sound would leak through the foliage of the unkept brush. Sounds of couples, children, and pets in the more open area of the park and the gentle breeze of wind rustling leaves permeated the air. 

Count was once again taken by the beauty of the Surface. He wished he could show his brother such an enchanting place. He was worth it. But the Omega Timeline only had a one way entrance and exit. At the very least, maybe he could visit-

His thoughts and home sickness were interrupted by Johnny handing him a makeshift salad on a bark platter. Dandelion, wild strawberry and carrot. It was too bad they didn’t have any sauce to go with it. The pile may have dwindled fairly fast, but that just meant less to carry. It was good that the park was fairly close to tier final destination. It meant that they could still occasionally come by foraging. The fast food joints were also going to be very valuable, and one of the leading reasons Count had chosen the specific factory.

Johnny moved on to hand Vanta his share as Count was thinking of sustainable food meathouds.

“Thank you beta.” Vanta said before freezing, catching Counts attention. 

Pocky almost choked on his food, Kid staired, Cloak whistled and Dagger's brow bones rose, others having similar reactions or having been distracted chatting. Johnny snickered as Bruce paused in his snacking. Starlight and Count were both confused. Rock didn’t look surprised, as usual. 

Count wondered what ‘beta’ meant here to get such a reaction. “i thought his name was Johnny-?”

“I-It is!” Vanta growled and faced Count, though not quite meeting his eye lights. “That’s what I said! You’re hearing things!”

“wow.” Cloak said, almost impressed. “ya must been out here awhile if you’ve started-”

The argument was starting to gain more attention as the others started to catch onto what was happening.

“Shut.” Vanta glowered at the edgy bitty who shrugged.

“just sayin.” Cloak backed down, looking at his salad. 

“aww, you can call me beta.” Johnny dropped his weight into Vanta’s lap (and across Count, his feet making their way to Bruce’s side) and gave a teasing pur. “does this mean i call you alpha~?” 

Vanta hid his face in his hands. “Fuck you.” Another growl, this one met with a smaller one from Johnny. Bruce whimpered and they stopped. Fang slept on.

Count leaned off Fang to look over Johnny and around Bruce (when did he get so surrounded?) to give a stage whisper to Kid.

“what’s going on?” Count questioned.

Kid blinked before explaining. “WHEN BITTIES GO FARAL THEY BEGIN TO ACT MORE ANIMAL LIKE, THOUGH FORMING PACK DYNAMICS LIKE ALPHA, BETA AND OMEGA UNLIKE MOST ANIMALS. IT’S REALLY RARE TO GET THAT FAR.” 

“Fuck you too.” Vanta pointed at Kid, with yet another growl. “We’re NOT faral. I refuse .” 

Bruce and Johnny winced. 

“I-IT WAS JUST A SLIP UP.” Bruce said, fiddling with his fingers yet again. “THEY HAPPEN.” 

Vanta scowled at his food as Johnny got up to sit just in front of Kid and Bruce, leaning on them. He gave Kid a mock innocent smile and Kid rolled his eyelights. He seemed to be morbidly fascinated with Kid after learning he was a yandereberry. Wanting to see how far he could push him.

Johnny sighed and explained, turning to Count. “we’ve been out here for three months-ish. the ring probably didn’t help with the whole behavior thing. we only started slipping up about two weeks ago.” Johnny snorted as if it was amusing. 

“outta curiosity.” Cloak asked, also smirking. “what positions did ya guys end up wit’.” A glance at the sleeping lamia. “bet he's anoth al-”

“omega.” Johnny snickered pointing to Fang. 

“bullshit.” Cloak said. He felt offended, as the sleeping skeleton acted the most like him. 

Johnny just snickered again.

“FANG IS VERY GOOD AT KEEPING THE BURROW COMFORTABLE!” Bruce defended. “THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH BEING THE OMEGA IN OUR SITUATION.” 

“yeah sure.” Johnny said, with a dismissive wave of a knife wielding hand, stabbing a fruit to eat. “until we go off the deep end and stop letting him leave the burrow area entirely. don’t think i didn’t notice you trying to make excuses to keep him there yesterday.” 

Bruce was back to fiddling with his fingers. “I-I - W-WELL …IT COULD BE DANGEROUS!” 

Johny turned back to Cloak. “to finish answering your question.” He pointed between himself and Bruce. “betas.” A quick point to Vanta. “alpha.” 

“why isn’t he the omega?” Cloak grumbled, gesturing to Bruce. 

Bruce puffed out his chest with pride. “BECAUSE UNLIKE THESE TWO NUMBSKULLS I CAN TRACK AND HUNT SMALL CRITTERS THE BEST! ASIDE FROM FANG WHO IS TOO LAZY TO DO IT MOST OF THE TIME. EVEN IF HE HAS THE LAZY ADVANTAGE OF BEING VENOMOUS.”

That surprised a lot of the group. Except, again, Rock. 

“no need to worry.” Johnny said. “he’s not a biter, despite his resemblance to the edges.”

That was enough reassurance to go back to peacefully eating. 

So when the usually stoic Rock who had been staring into the distance pauses, tenses and stands with a curse it’s something to worry about. 

“what-” Count tried to ask.

Rock pointed at Count in a quick panicked jab with one shaky word, Count listened. “ follow .”

Without further preamble, Rock was sprinting through the foliage, Count extracting himself from the pile quickly on his heels, occasionally needing to teleport to keep up. Damn those little legs could move when they wanted. It was about a minute of running at full speed before they heard it.

The sounds of struggle were starting to make their way through the foliage. 

“LEAVE ME BE!” A panicked voice shouted, still trying to sound demanding and in control.

It was Napoleon. And he was in trouble. 

Count took in the scene in an instant.

Like a pack of hungry wolves, three bitties circled a defensive Napoleon, trying to get close. Two in the distance, one looking to be held against their will was tied with vine weaved into rope. All but the captured of them with varying makeshift physical weapons. All but the captured ones' clothes tatters.

Feral bitties. REAL ones. 

And for some reason they were trying to capture other bitties.

Two printing errors (were those a Dust and Cross?), two he recognised from online ads from the swapfell line and the one being held hostage so it seems was an exhausted looking Sansy that was a little roughed up. 

The Cap, so much like the Raspberry Count knew, was grinning maniacally as he dodged and weaved between the attack Napoleon shot out at him and the others in warning. He had a staff he was using to volt around and occasionally slap at Napoleon with. 

The Mutt followed in the Caps shadow, silently and waiting for openings in order to use his sling to pelt Napoleon with pebbles. 

But what really seemed to be giving Napoleon trouble was the Cross mini wielding a kitchen knife twice the size of him . 

The Dust mini was on the sidelines with the Sansy, exacto-knife blade in hand. 

It was the Sansy that spotted Count and Rock first, hope filling his gaze. 

The Dust was quick to notice and growl, possessively pulling the Sansy closer. The sound gathered the other’s attention. The Cap gestured his head in the direction of Napoleon while looking at the Cross who nodded and renewed their attacking and dodging as the other two went to meet with Count and Rock, violence shining in their eyes lights as they growled.

Count scowled. 

Napoleon may be an ass, but like hell Count was just going to abandon him. There was still a people waiting for him to come back after all.

Count was filled with DETERMINATION. 

Just short of being slapped silly with a stick, Count acted.

Ping! 

The ferals fell to the ground under Count blue magic. He made sure they couldn’t lift a finger, immediately ending the fight before it began.

Normally turning so many souls blue would be a strain, but with the weaker souls, it was barely like holding one.

Rock went to untie the Sansy as Count walked through the group, barely acknowledging the bitties trying to get out of his hold as he went to Napoleon. Napoleon was breathing hard as watched his approach. 

Napoleon was expecting Count to be mad that he ran off. That he went alone and didn’t tell anyone. What he did not expect was for Count to gently place a hand on his skull, warm healing magic easing all the minor aches and bruises he had sustained.

“are you okay?” He asked. 

Napoleon huffed and looked away with crossed arms. “I’M FINE.” 

Count gave a small smile. “good.” He said, giving a final pat as he finished healing. 

Count turned and began walking back in front of the bitty that had tried to attack him, leaving Napoleon to trail after him speechless and with nothing else to do. His expression was carefully blank to make it hard for them to know what he was thinking.

With casual practice, he moved the farlas to be in a line, face down as he placed their weapons in a pile out of reach. He looked down at them with an impassive exposition judging them and seeing the LV. 

As far as Count had managed to see, it was the Cap that was in charge of this group. The ‘Alpha’ or whatever. With how he growled when Count approached and knelt in front of them for a closer look, Count almost doubted whether he could speak. His purple eye lights were so dim it was a wonder they were still lit.

“what to do with you.” Count mused out loud as he tilted the bitty’s chin up to make him look in the eye lights, just preventing the bitty from biting him with fanged teeth. There was another growl that petered off slowly as they gazed into each other's eye lights. The longer he stayed in Counts hold, the less he struggled and the sharper his eyelights became. 

He could feel it. The way the bitty tried to forcefully suck up his soul energy, rather than the passive absorption the other bitties use. He must have been starving for it. 

“what were you going to do with them?” Count asked, pointing to the new Sansy and Napoleon with his free hand. THough with what was going on, Count could guess. 

It took a moment as the bitties' eye lights focused before he answered. “... ENERGY.” 

Count frowned. So that’s how they’ve been lasting in the wild. Stealing soul energy wherever they got the chance. Even if it meant from another bitty … even if it dusted them. 

Count turned to look at the captured Sansy. “where did you come from?”

The tired Sansy winced, still rubbing his wrists from where they had been roughly tied. 

“was nappin’ in the park with my monster.” He said. “she’s gonna get worried.” 

Count nodded. “you know your way back there?” 

He looked around at the tightly grouped trees and fiddled with the hem of his sweater. “not really.” 

“rock?” Count asked and Rock nodded to show he was listening. “you think you could lend him a hand finding his monster?”

Rock nodded again, and after taking a look around, tilting his skull he gestured for the Sansy to follow. He did hesitantly. 

“SO WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO WITH THESE - THESE ANIMALS .” Napoleon sneered at the captured group, getting more snarls. 

Count hummed as if thinking about it before letting his eye lights go out and glaring at the group as he let go of them.

“s c r a m.”  

They fled from Counts' aura as if he was going to chase after them and start dusting them one by one. 

Napoleon watched as they bounded into the woods before turning to Count almost surprised.

“AND HERE I THOUGHT YOU WERE GOING TO BRING THEM WITH US.” He admitted arms crossed.

Count relit his eye lights with a tired sigh. “i thought about it but … you were right. we don’t exactly have the resources.” Count looked off into the distance where the group had run off too. “maybe one day we’ll be able to take ‘em, but for now … we can’t save everyone.”

Not yet. The longer that Count stayed her, the more he came to the same conclusion. He wanted to help the bitties.

Count, feeling bone tired, turned to the direction that Rock went off to.

“c’mon. let’s pick rock up before heading back.” Count gave a strained, yet genuine smile. “you still haven’t met the newbies.”

Napoleon gave him a look over before sighing. “I SUPPOSE IT WON’T HURT.” 

***

Meanwhile with the ferial group they were back at their makeshift home as they argued what to do about Count. A small sheen of dust covering their nest of collected feathers and soft materials. 

They were humiliated at being forced to turn tail and run. But they all had the same idea; that new Alpha - he could easily rival their Alpha in strength as had been shown. They had two choices … keep out of his way …

Or submit under him.

Chapter Text

Somewhere in the outskirts of Outertal_Copy581 …

You may be interested to know, I’m in a little predicament.

Oh, yeah - Fresh again btw.

But anyway, back to my small problem . (See what I did there? :D)

I knew there was a reason I didn’t choose Outertale Sanses as hosts often. See … I didn’t know how to turn off their floating magic. It’s pretty hard to change hosts when you can only mostly move via portals and teleportation. Not impossible, but it's a real bummer and hassle, yo.

I sighed as the rocky floor of Outertale got further away. At least the view was nice.

Welp! I could continue to lament my situation or I could do something about it. 

Pulling out my phone, that, just like my sick digs, magically manifests, and I sent out a text. 

After a few minutes of floating listlessly, a dark portal opened below; out of which an even darker skeleton emerged with his entourage.

Mr. Tentacles and his murder band. 

“Well isn’t this hilarious .” Nightmare grinned in pleasure from my misfortune before using a tendil to pull me partially back down. It probably looked like he was flying a very colorful kite. “Give me a good reason why I shouldn’t just leave you like this after what you pulled?”  

Him, referring to trying to possess one of the dark Sanses no doubt. Probably why the gang are on guard. Trying to keep more sockets on me in case the text was a trap. Not that I was very prone to bright ideas when hungry. Clearly. 

I decided to pull The Card that usually gets others out of similar situations. 

“Friendship?” I tilted my head, eye brows raised and placed my fingers together innocently. Just before Nightmare yeeted me to my fate, I changed my tune. “C’mon, broski! Ya know I got the best radical multiversal intel, yo. Ya wouldn’t o' known ‘bout that unrad bounty so early ons if not for this rad fellow, bro dude. Also, and this is important dawg, I got another one o’ muh plans cookin’.” 

Dust deadpanned, knowing how well that went last time. 

Nightmare sighed and pinched his nasal ridge giving in. “Go on.”  

I smiled. “According to my swag calculations, yo … there’s a 15.4% chance that if we done play our cards right bro, we may not have ta worry about that unrad bounty much longer.” 

“Well that is a great deal more than your last plan …”  Nightmare pulled me the rest of the way down, face impassive as he studied me. “I’m listening.”

My grin turned up just a little more at his cooperation. “Not only that, home slice. In due time, my broski, our Error bro won’t need to do your unradical ‘job’ for decades .”

“... what do you mean ‘our Error’?”

I smiled smugly, glad Nightmare managed to catch that and not mistake it as part of his default rad lingo.

Sinse Error went off to that AU for his little experiment, I might as well tell Nightmare the plan first. Even if Error is needed for this to work, there was time.

What? Did you guys really think the only reason I've been bugging Error was for fun?

…

Ok it was for fun too, but that's not the point.

Anyway, it's time I introduce the gang to someone special .

***

Bittytale_Copy38 …

Napoleon and Count walked in silence as they made their best guess as to which way Rock went. Count found himself relaxing in it’s company, eyelights stealing soft glances at the partially overcast sky. The air was fresh and crisp, if a little humid. It reminded Sans of the boarder between Hotland and Waterfall. 

It was Napoleon that broke the silence first.

“I…” He trailed off, seemingly putting his words in order. HE spoke haltingly, as if each word was a chore to speak. “I AM NOT WITHOUT MANORS AND … AND AFTER WHAT HAS HAPPENED, IT WOULD BE AN AFFRONT TO NOT SHOW MY GRATITUDE.” He began stiffly. “SO. BE GRATEFUL ONE SUCH AS I HAS ACKNOLEGED YOU … COUNT. THANK YOU FOR RESCUING ME.”

Napoleon was thanking him? Also isn't this the first time he has called Count by his nickname?

Count couldn’t stop the fond smile that snuck onto his skull and teased the skeleton. "aww. kid was right. you are warming up to me." Count went so far as to give him a side hug.

Napoleon scowled, brushing him off. "DON'T MAKE ME REGRET GIVING YOU THE TIME OF DAY, SANSY KNOCK OFF." He crossed his arms and decidedly started to pout with an exaggerated eye light roll. Prideful gaze steadily looking into the distance.

The two lapsed back into silence, Count deciding not to push the tsundere. He decided to take what he learned from dealing with Tsunderplane and stayed close. But not too close. 

His action merely gained a suspicious glance.

When Count and Napoleon finally got to the edge of the forested park area, they managed to catch Rock being handed a slip of paper from a dog monster as she was reunited with her Sansy. They were a dozen feet off to the right of the exchange, which wasn’t too bad considering they had only vaguely known where they were going.

5:26:51 PM.

Count examined the black and white fuzzy monster, sensing no LV coming from her SOUL. Rather than interrupt, Count trusted Rock to be able to handle it and waited patiently for him to return. 

She had mostly white fur, with black floppy ears and a black spot around one of her blue and brown eyes. She wore a muted yellow sundress and had a small brown purse with her. She had knelt down to be closer to Rocks height and she appeared to be very patient as she conversed with Rock, though her gaze inevitably continued to travel to his head injury with worry. 

Napoleon tapped his foot in annoyance or perhaps anxiety at Count not taking action, but also not wanting to make a move himself. Rock, despite his limited magic capabilities, was an asset they could not lose. Seeing him out in the open and alone uneased Napoleon. 

When bitty and monster parted, the larger waved goodbye to Rock hesitantly, handing him something. The Sansy securely lounging on her shoulder gave Rock a look of gratitude. Rock made his way back into the treeline and then towards the two waiting, gift in his pocket slightly sticking out.

It was a slip of paper.

“WHAT WAS THAT!? ” Napoleon whisper-shouted in anger (worry). “YOU COULD HAVE BEEN TAKEN!”

Rock just looked at Napoleon and shrugged. "it … went fine. didn’t it …?"

“what did she give you?” Count asked, cutting right to the chase.

“TSK. WHATEVER IT IS, IT BETTER HAVE BEEN WORTH THE RISK.”

Rock handed the small piece of paper to Count, with only a brief glance at Napoleon who held eye contact. 

On the paper was a phone number, as well as one of the fast food place names that they were going to pass with a part-time work schedule and a name. 

Apparently her name was Spot.

Even in a different world, Monster naming creativity remained the same. It made Count smile softly at the parallel. Count placed the paper in his inventory. 

“she’s … willing to help … get food from work.” Rock explained. “gets … thrown out, end of … day. not allowed to … take it to the … homeless shelter any … anymore. wanted to … take me home … but willing to respect … our decis … decisions. gave her number … in case we … ever change our … minds.”

Count could scarcely believe their luck. He could trust Rock in his judgment as he literally saw into the souls of others. The offer was genuine. 

Napoleon looked like he wanted to question the trustworthiness of the offer just to be difficult, but he too knew of Rock's condition. 

Rock looked at Napoleon with a smirk. “was it … worth it?”

Instead of answering, he stomped his foot and started to head back into the direction of the others. Guess it was a good enough reason to have taken the risk. 

Count smiled, quick to follow the huffy skeleton with Rock keeping pace. 

Sure, the plan was to pillage the garbage for the food anyway, but knowing what was fresh? That was going to do wonders on the morals of the group. Count may have been willing to eat literal trash, but some of the others he had a feeling would be more reluctant. 

Hopefully the others were too worried about them with the way he and Rock suddenly up and left.

5:29:29 PM.

Making it in only a few minutes with Rock to guide them, they discovered everyone was awake and waiting. 

Raspberry and Happy seemed to have been stress cleaning and improving the makeshift little stick huts - there were four smaller and one larger. Fang and Comet appeared to be lining the interior with soft moss and fresh pine needles. 

Others had taken advantage of moss to form comfortable sunbathing spots, not that they were sleeping at the moment. Johnny and Bruce seemed to have taken up Rocks post guarding and distributing food.

Starlight looked like he was having a small argument with Vanta over letting him help with the others, but Vanta wasn’t budging having wrapped Starlight in his tendrils. Not that Starlight was fighting it very hard. He did need the rest. 

Curious. Count vaguely wonders if, because the two were sustained on opposite ends of emotions, that when they were together like that, maybe they managed to increase their energy without a soul as close? That could be useful if Count needed someone to scout more than a few hours away. 

Count again focused on his surroundings.

The little area was coming along nicely, even if it was a temporary shelter. The wooden structures were formed in a semicircle open on the side with the creek. A downed tree's roots provided cover on one of the sides of their small clearing and made its way into being incorporated into the larger fort. 

Pocky was the first to spot their return and whistled to get everyone’s attention. “they're back!”

Tension dissipated as Count, Rock and Napoleon made an appearance through the surrounding foliage. Smiles become more genuine and shoulders relaxing. They were quickly surrounded by those curious about the sudden departure. With glances at Napoleon, a few looked to be trying to work it out already. 

Raspberry was quick to saunter over (a little faster than usual) and give Napoleon a look over as his clothes were slightly ruffled. It was clear he was worried but didn’t want to be over bearing or obvious. 

"WHAT HAPPENED?" Raspberry asked, ever present smirk, diminished. 

Count gave a brief rundown of what had happened, Napoleon chipping in to add about his heroic fight while being outnumbered, causing Rock to roll his eye light. 

“That sounds like the ones that stole our food.” Vanta grumbled. 

“WELL I AM GLAD EVERYTHING WORKED OUT OKAY!” Comet said, bouncing on his heels.

Starlight fidgeted. “Are you sure we can’t take them in to help?” Starlight looked guilty.

Several of the more optimistic skeletons seemed to agree with the sentiment. 

Vanta didn’t look like he wanted them to join but kept his mouth shut, not wanting to continue arguing with Starlight.

Count sighed, looking at the diminished food pile. With the help of the dog monster, hopefully that won't be a problem. But Count had only gotten that deal after the farel’s had scrammed. Though that wasn’t the only reason Count held off on bringing them in. 

Count looked to those who wanted to let them join here and now and explained.

“we need to establish a base before we can start bringing in even more.” Count said, delicately, letting them know the answer wasn’t a no forever. “once we do, we can come back to them. i’d also like to look into some research to best help them and their condition as well.” 

Count didn’t mean for his eye lights to have landed on Vanta as he said that, but when they did he got a scowl in return.

“if they ain’t dust by then.” Fang scoffed, tail curling. 

The mood was brought down as the group lapsed into contemplative silence.

Bruce put his hands on his hips and pouted at Fang, sockets narrowed. “THERE WAS NO NEED TO BRING THAT UP.”

Fang winced. “Sorry.”

“Odds are, they will find us .” Vanta stated.

“oh? and why’s that?” Count asked. “revenge?”

Vanta shook his head in the negative. “Full ferals have a … disposition.” Vanta said, measuring his words with some distaste. “That leads them to seek those stronger than them as possible protectors if their situation deteriorates. A need for a better Alpha. Especially after a defeat or in a weakened state.” 

Count sighed as his shoulders slumped. He gave a half smile brow bone raised. “and in this case, you think that person could be me.” 

Vanta nodded, looking away. “It’s true that you are … strong.” He didn’t look like he wanted to admit it, yet the words were still spoken. “You’ll find out if they want to join if you start finding presents.”

Bruce nodded, fidgeting. “TH-THEY WILL BE TRYING TO IMPRESS YOU. Y-YET THEY WILL ALSO BE TESTING Y-YOU.”

Count blinked. “in what way.”

Johnny toyed with his shiv at the edge of the creak. “well, if you want to have them join, ya gotta be able to track ‘em down. then fight again 1 on 1.” Johnny shrugged. “easy.” 

“shows you can track and fight.” Fang simplified. “though if you don’t find ‘em in a week they might give up and decide you’re helpless.” He snickered.

“huh.” Was all Count said to that. Looks like he’ll need to get better at sensing soul signatures.

5:36:50 PM.

“So. What are you going to do about him?” Vanta pointed to Napoleon. “He ran off and caused you trouble.”

Count raised a brow bone. “as if he hasn’t gone through enough embarrassment? though i guess this is a good point to bring this up.” Count looked around at the large group who were all listening. “if any of you plan to go out exploring, i suggest you do so in pairs or at least inform others that you are gone. i’m not going to say you can’t leave the group at your own discretion, but i still want safety to be at the forefront of your skulls.”

There were nods of various degrees of enthusiasm. 

“well, now that that’s out of the way.” Johnny said, smiling as he began to wad into the water. He turned back to the group who were wondering what he was doing. His gaze traveled the skeleton before it landed on Kid who wasn’t too far away. “let’s play.”

Johnny kicked up a wave of water, managing to catch Kid by surprise.

"WHA-? WHY!? " Kid sputtered. His sockets narrowed with a challenge as he stood up, a small smile tugging at his expression. "YOU'LL REGRET THAT."

"oh yeah?" Johnny taunted, chuckling. "why don't you show-"

Kid tackled him into the water, both soaking their clothes. They both breached the surface, water droplets running down their skulls. 

Johnny was on his feet first and offering a hand to Kid, wiggling his fingers. “teammates?” 

Kid accepted the hand with a smirk. “HMM. JUST THIS ONCE.”

Sharing a look they turned on the rest of the group. 

Seeing where this was going, some bitties ran for cover, joined in and others merely accepted their fate. 

In the end it turned into one giant water fight.

***

Some time ago in the Antivoid ….

“Holy shit!” Flowey exclaimed. “Is that a mini you!? ”

“sHuT tHe HeLl Up!” Error covered his blushy face wishing to remove that from his memory. “lEt'S jUsT GeT ThIs RiNg ReSeArCh DoNe!”

Chapter Text

***

5:45:37 pm. Bittytale_Copy38.

With the way Vanta scrambled up a tree and hissed, you’d think he was allergic to water or something. Even going so far as to use Starlight as a shield when Johnny and Kid took chase asking for “friendship hugs” their clothes still dripping. 

It didn’t take long for those who thought it looked fun to start wadding into the creek to join in. 

Bruce seemed to have thought that if you hop in the water yourself you won't be a target. He was wrong. And now doubly soaked. His new strategy was to flop into the water near someone and cause a wave - if you can’t beat them, join them.

“i’m too tired for this shit.” Fang said, flopping to the ground in preemptive defeat. Somehow he actually managed to fall asleep in the chaos. More surprising was that he didn’t immediately become a target … though catching a couple wandering eye lights it was clear that wouldn’t be for long.  

Cloak was attempting to drag a shrieking Dagger into the drink, chuckling madly. 

Pocky, after some hesitation, was teleporting short distances to enact mini sneak attacks and porting away before anyone could retaliate or realize who the culprit was. He often staged it so they would think it was someone else, whistling ‘innocently’ away from the water when a new fight broke out. 

Comet, and Happy were both against Razberry and Napoleon, despite the pointy ones saying such childishness was beneath them, the rounder still managed to provoke them into participation. That is until Comet betrayed Happy by tripping him into fully submerging. “MAY THE SHORT REIGN SUPREME!” Immediately getting a face full of creek for his efforts as Happy pulled him down with him.

Rock had taken a different approach. Fully submerged, he was pulling the unsuspecting under by the ankles. Count couldn’t help but hope that didn’t hurt his open head wound. 

Meanwhile Count himself just chose to dodge rather than attack. That was enough to be fun for him. Especially when dodging at just the right time brought others into the crossfire. 

Punz seemed to be of a similar mind, but was a lot more impressive with his movements. Show off. And Napoleon finally got to see that backflip, his face being of comical disbelief and competitive jealousy. However, when a squirrel passed by distracting him and he said, “Samantha?” the opportunity wasn’t missed. 

7:24:28 pm. 

Slowly but surely the sun did dip to the horizon and the air got chillier. Unspoken they all unanimously ended the water fight to dry off and get warm before the night truly set in. 

It was the first time in a long time that he had nearly lost track of time to the fun. He didn’t though. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever crack the habit compelling him to double check time's linear passage. 

Luckily Count had had the forethought to pack several spare pairs of bitty clothes for the group, so the wet clothes weren’t particularly a problem. Happy, Comet, Raspberry and Kid set out making frames of twigs to give the wet clothes a place to dry overnight, even deciding to wash them first as best they could. Bruce hesitantly also offered his help in hanging the clothes, to which he was welcomed. 

They were in the middle of debating if it was worth the risk of lighting fire that night - albeit a small one. They weren’t exactly close to the trail, but it was still a park in a town. But as long as they kept the coals low they should be unnoticeable, the uprooted stump helping hide them.

But in the end they decided it was worth the risk for a warm night's sleep.

7:28:02 pm. 

And so for the next 15 minutes there was a goal. 

Napoleon, Bruce and Happy cleared a decent size area for the fire pit to prevent anything from catching on fire that wasn’t meant to. 

Others left to get firewood. However with Counts blue magic, he easily managed to outperform. All it took was a precise and small gaster blaster to get the fire going.

There were little cheers as they gathered around the fire.

Warm and fed, Count could see the contentment on the bitties expressions, a smile appearing on his own skull. It felt like a camping trip Count would see in some of Alphys’s anime - minus the training arc. He wished there were marshmallows. 

Even the newer bitties were starting to be less guarded towards them. It was still nice how everyone was getting along. It wasn’t long before the fire burned low. Some had already started sleeping in preparation for the late night move.

5. 10. 15. 17.

He counted up the skeletons around the fire several times.

5. 10. 15. 17.

Cloak, Dagger, Kid, Candy, Pocky. Happy, Comet, Punz, Hoods. Napoleon, Raspberry, Rock. Starlight, Vanta, Johnny, Bruce, Fang.

5. 10. 15. 17. 

This little group of individuals, alike and unalike in so many ways trying to cut out a slice of the big hostile world just to exist and live free. 

5. 10. 15. 17. 

In the short time of his appearance in this world, he had made so many new and interesting friends. However …

7:55:19 pm.

He held his watch, thinking of Papyrus. He would love meeting all these skeletons. But he wasn’t here. He was away. And even though he wasn’t gone forever, he still wished he had his brother by his side. 

He was brought out of his thoughts when a tall hooded skeleton sat next to him. 

“you doin’ alright?” Candy asked. “you look a little lost in thought.”

Count glanced at Candy before looking back at his watch. “... just a little homesick is all.” 

Candy hummed in acknowledgement, luckily not pushing Count to talk like last time. He was letting Count say as much or as little as he wanted. 

“did you … ever have someone you considered a brother?” Count asked. 

Candy hummed in thought before spotting Kid. “i can think of someone. you worried about your bro in that uh, what’chya-call-it place?”

Count nodded. “Omega Timeline. and … it's more that i miss him, then i’m worried.” Count traced the crack in his forearm - a mark that had been with him since the moment he stepped into this strange world. “sure, he can be naive in some respects, but he’s also persistent, resourceful and smart. smarter than me sometimes,  heh …” He looked to the dining sky seeing the first star of the night, yet closing his eye sockets in attempt to delay the tears. Just a few more days. He just needs to settle before he can risk visiting. “... i miss him.” 

Candy leaned on Count. “you’ll see him again.” 

“h-heh … i know.” Count leaned back. “i know i will.”

***

Antivoid …

“... you’ve paused your preparations.” Flowey pointed out, playing with his disguise’s little green cape. There was a sad lack of dramatic wind in the Antivoid to make that interesting for long however.

“Sh-shUt uP …” Error said, continuing to knit his black mask. They couldn’t be recognized as the suspects for what they were about to do to The Bitty Ring. “I’m juSt tHinKinG.” 

Error had overheard Count’s feelings through the portal. 

He was feeling guilty about being the cause of Count's situation. Because of how the doors to the Omega Timeline worked, that Papyrus wouldn’t be able to leave by the normal means, even if Count were to open a door to Bittytale_Copy38. The exception was if an individual could use a portal from a different source. 

It makes him wonder, if he remembered his own brother, if he even had one … would he miss him like that too?

“You stopped again.” Flowey said. Error scowled before getting back to his task.

Some things he didn’t want the answers to. Some hypothetical past brother wasn’t worth entertaining. Error didn’t need anyone else.

Error held up his finished mask before putting it on and standing up. The capes might have been a bit much, but the costu- uh, disguise wasn’t complete without them. 

Error gave Flowey a mischievous, borderline manic smile. “aRe YoU ReaDy tO FigHt CrimE, ‘RoBin’?” 

Flowey admired the costumes before returning a similar smile. “Ready to enact the plan when you are, ‘batman’.”

The two giggled evilly as Error opened a portal into Bittytale_Copy38. 

“juStaCe. For GoThEm!!!”

***

Nightmare’s Mansion…

Nightmare, Killer, Dust, Horror and Cross sat at the dinning room table for the impromptu meeting called by Fresh - who had left to “grab the radical salulu to all out probs, real quick.” The fact that he left so swiftly put suspicion on their already rocky alliance.

Against his better judgment, Nightmare decided to trust the parasite this time. For five more minutes that is. If that parasite wasn’t back within that time-

Speak of the devil and he shall appear.

Around the corner Fresh skidded to a halt having run from somewhere in the mansion, smiling like he did the best thing ever. 

“Come on broski’s!” Fresh said, excitedly waving them to follow before running off again. “No time to wait, yo!

This immediately set everyone on edge. Everyone was hesitant. Slowly they got up from their chairs and peeked down the empty hall, only for Fresh to dip his head around a courier and ducking away again. The group looked at each other. 

“does this scream ‘trap’ to anyone else?” Killer asked.

“yup.” Dust.

“oh yeah.” Cross.

“...yes” Horror. 

“...” Nightmare sighed, pinching his nasal ridge. “We follow anyway.” 

Killer deadpanned. “easy to say, being as you're not the one he tried to turn into a soul chew toy. what if he’s still got the munchies?”

“you first!” Dust said cheerily, shoving Cross into the hall.

Cross shrieked even though Fresh wasn’t even in that hall trying to get back into the dining hall, which devolved into a shoving match, Killer and eventually Horror joined in. Until everyone but Nightmare falls out the door out of balance. Nightmare face palmed, stepping over them, slapping them on the backs of their heads as he passes. 

“Now then. We move together.” Nightmare commanded. “There’s only one of him and five of us. Unless you want to split up~?” He gave that suggestion knowing the outcome. 

The rapid head shakes of denial was enough to get them on their feet and creeping toward the direction fresh had taken off at. They were in a defensive formation. Dust and Cross in front with weapons drawn, Killer on the left, Horror on the right and Nightmare at the back, tendrils ready.

Dust peaked around the corner and reported. “... he’s just leaning on the wall next to the broom closet.” 

 “...” Nightmare ran through various possibilities before coming to a conclusion. “I will approach alone. You four stay as back up. We know I have the least appealing soul amongst us.” 

Killer chewed his thumb bone. “... it’s risky.”

“It's 20 feet.” Nightmare said, trying to be more sure than he was. “We still have numbers.” 

Nightmare was about to pass them before Cross gripped his shoulder, stopping him.

“n-no wait.” Cross was nearly shaking but his resolve was firm. “we go together or not at all.” 

Nightmare looked at his group, the most fearless and ruthless killers of the multiverse. And though he saw reluctance in their expressions, there was also a resolve that Cross had, even though Nightmare knew he was the most afraid. 

Nightmare clenched his fist. What loyalty. It would be a shame to lose any one of them. 

“... right.” Nightmare conceded to their bravery. “We approach casually. Stay alert.”

When they finally made it next to - yet no too close - to Fresh, the tension could have been cut with a knife. Fresh wasn’t plussed however and smiled, gesturing to the broom closet. 

“I present to yee, brosephs.” Fresh began. “The solution to our small problem.” 

Fresh opened the closet. Cross feinted. 

Killer exclaimed in horror. “there’s two of them now!?!?!” 

Inside was another Fresh, slightly different in his clothes, but still, unmistakably, Fresh. He wore a rainbow stripped shirt, the same vest Marty McFly from Back To The Future wore over that, and rainbow band-aid over his nasal ridge. His hat did not have a propeller on it. 

“This here be the radical me from the Multiverse next over!” Fresh introduced with jazz hands. “Admin Fresh!”

The new Fresh, Admin for simplicity, tilted his skull, scratching it under his hat before asking the Fresh they were familiar. 

“Gotta say, brolio …” Admin said, taking in the reaction of the bad Sans’s. “This ain’t a good look for your trustability levels, yo. Not that  it was high to begins.” He sighed, then asked in a strained tone. “So what is it you up and child-napped me to help with, broski? Being as I can’t do multi-multiverse travel. Yet .” 

Even the new Fresh seemed done with their Fresh’s hijinks. 

“Harsh vibes.” Fresh said, clutching his host’s chest as if hurt, smile remaining. “Who can you trust if not yourself, broski? And call me Para.” He held out his hand. “I insist, yo.”

Admin’s eyebrows visibly dropped in suspicion, glasses even spelling out SU-S… but took the hand. 

“That stand for something, Para-broski?” Admin asked. 

Para grinned larger. “ Parasite .” 

Nightmare’s gang watched the interaction not knowing if they should scream, laugh or run.