Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Major note: this is Dream's third-person side story about what occurred. Only read if you don't care about the mystery element.

Dream watches as Ink went off to fight Error... again. Dream would have followed Ink to the ends of the multiverse however, Dream felt weak from all the negativity in the air lately. Holding a fresh brew cup of tea, Dream felt useless to the person he loved the most. The greatest battle in the history of the multiverse... and Dream couldn't attend due to lacking positivity in his bloodstream.

Cross sat next to Dream as Ink's party refused to let the reformed good guy help them. Ink himself also still condemns Cross for his past actions from time to time. Right now, Cross is behaving as Dream's bodyguard as the former soldier is used to having somebody to always protect. Dream was lucky to have Cross's loyalty now though... it seems sad that Cross only knew one style of life.

"Dream" Cross coughs as he places down his teacup to give him a serious look.

"I'm sure Ink will be fine... it's not like the destroyer managed to kill him, after all, this time" Dream nervously answered as he glances to the stained-glass window.

Cross sighed, "Dream... they might win the battle, but you know the war will be far from over."

"With my brother? I'm sure he's more than livid with Ink and myself" Dream looked to his hands in sadness.

"No... I mean... Error is unkillable" Cross told Dream, "I don't recall the details, but the gang was talking about a skill that Error has that makes him immortal."

"W-what? Why didn't you tell Ink?" Dream gasp almost dropping his tea.

"I tried to, but they didn't listen" Cross sighed, "You know how Ink gets whenever Error is brought up."

"Oh... I should try to explain when he gets back" Dream poured more tea into his cup.

"B-but what if he doesn't need to know" Cross stuttered, "If I use my overwrite, I could remove that skill."

"Cross, I know the others don't trust you" Dream started to place sugar cubes into his cup, "But I don't want to risk your life to solve this issue."

"Dream, please," Cross told him, "You think I can't tell that you grow worried whenever you hear that Ink had gotten into a fight with Error. That you can't help but poison yourself with your way of thinking. Risking my life for the sake of your mental ease is worth it."

"Cross... I'm not worth someone's life" Dream attempted to hide his face with the teacup as he drank it.

Cross stood up, "Dream please, after Error escapes from Ink's fight, he'll be weak. The two of us can pin him down long enough for a proper overwrite."

Dream gentle put his cup down, "T-then... I can spend more time with Ink. I don't have to worry about him running off and getting hurt anymore?"

Reaching over, Cross wiped away a tear from Dream's socket, "Yes, things will be much safer without the destroyer around."

"My brother won't forgive us," Dream said finally looking into Cross's sockets for the first time today, "Can it be our little secret?"

"As your light as my witness, I shall never tell a soul of what happens upon this day," Cross told him, "Also Ink... cause... you know."

"Cross... you are far kinder than anybody else in this multiverse" Dream smiled slightly, "Lead the way, and I'll help you follow through with this plan."

Finding the battle was easy enough as Cross was an expert scout. Cross watched the fighting while Dream stood back as the negatively charged air made his non-existent lungs hurt. It seems the guard was already seasoned enough to come with a flora-scented cloth to cover Dream's nose hole and mouth so he could breathe a bit easier.

"Looks like Error could teleport at any moment," Cross told Dream, "I can figure out the coordinates from here, but we'll need to be quick before he can form a portal."

Dream nodded and stood alert as the echoes of a decisive battle cry reached the duo. A moment later, Cross signaled to Dream where to run off to. Dream kept up as the now joyous cries of a false victory fed his determination to see this through. To turn this fake win into a real battle won.

The second the destroyer came into the duo's view, Dream pulled out his bow and armed it with an arrow of light. Error didn't seem aware yet, but he was already forming a portal elsewhere. Not wanting him to escape, Dream aims the arrow to pin Error's scarf against a tree.

Dream could always sense the sentimental value Error had for the knitted cloth. There was no way the destroyer would dare leave it behind, which was perfect for keeping Error here. A sense of flight or flight came from the destroyer as he went to pull the arrow out while glaring in Dream's direction.

Cross was swift to pounce on Error before he could properly react. Pinning the dark bone skeleton to the ground, Cross shouted that he was going ahead for the overwrite. Dream saw the glitching mess on the ground attempting to reboot, thus leaving their target in a stunned state for now. How long this would last was anybody's bet... but hopefully long enough for Cross to do his work.

"Crap" Cross hiss, "I can't find it... this code is far too glitchy for me to handle."

Dream mind raced as he grew worried about the plan, "Can you try putting a pause on the reboot? To give us more time."

Cross nodded and a few moments later, the glitching mess froze. The glitched textures stayed in place as if the main system had frozen up completely. Dream relaxes as they no longer had a limited amount of time to work on this.

Moments pass as Cross couldn't find anything useful in Error's code. Dream watch lost in thought as he wondered if Ink was back at the place Dream now calls home. Would Ink miss him? Would he even notice? Dream's soul sank as he mentally answered no.

"Cross..." Dream finally spoke up, "Can you grab his soul so we can look it over later? I'm sure the others are worried about us and as long as the destroyer isn't loose, it'll be a win either way."

Cross frowned at first like his mission was a failure, but he agreed. Pulling out Error's soul in a overwrite status bubble, the bones slowly dusted across the ground. Dream felt sick that somebody was dusted before his eyes... but this must be done... for the multiverse.

Finally getting back home, Cross said he'll be with his roommate before heading through a portal. Dream was lucky to have somebody to walk him to the door, but... Ink was what Dream's soul decided to settle on.

"Dream" Ink hiccupped as Dream entered the foyer.

All the Sans that had to survive through the battle wore gathered. Each one drinking and singing their lives away as they talk about how the destroyer was dead. It seems like they jumped the gun on the dead part. Error is still alive... though Dream didn't want to spoil the positivity in the air.

"Inky, I see it went well" Dream smiled, "I am so relieved that you made it home safe."

"Dream, I was wondering where you went" Ink smiled as he popped a vial full of yellow paint into his mouth.

Dream laughed, "What did we say about overdoing it with the yellow again?"

"But they are all doing it" Ink frowned, "But with booze... you know booze does not affect me."

"Ink, you know you'll wake up tomorrow covered in your vomit of paint" Dream explained, "and then you'll run out of yellow before the next batch can get here."

"Yeah, yeah" Ink put the cork back on his vial, "So... where wore you?"

Dream sighed, "Cross and I went out to get you a surprise but unfortunately we didn't see anything that seemed perfect for you."

"Ah, you don't need to do that Dream" Ink replied, "I can just make anything I want. Though sketchpads are always nice... and painting supplies..."

"Thanks, Ink, but we weren't thinking of that kind of present," Dream told him.

"I guess it's a good thing you came back empty-handed" Ink hummed, "Anyways, don't you plan to celebrate with the other Sanses?"

"I... I would rather celebrate with you, Inky" Dream attempted to flirt.

Ink laughed, "Making sure I don't get left out I see. Speaking of left out, have you seen Blueberry today?"

Dream shook his head, "Stretch said that Blueberry was busy with his own AU today."

"Ah, guess he missed out on the biggest day of his life" Ink stated, "He always gets weird whenever his kidnapper is brought up. Like some sort of... what did Sci call it again?"

"Stockholm syndrome" Dream answered.

"Yeah, that. I assume he'll just knock out of it after seeing Error's death, but... guess we'll tell him tomorrow" Ink smiled as he looked at the other Sanses now, "But for right now, we're going to party all night long."

The party did indeed happen all night long. Dream ended up having to carry a pass-out Ink to bed. As Dream hazily walked down the hall, a slimy substance covered Dream's outfit. Yep, Ink drank too much of his paints again.

Wait... if they can't get rid of the destroyer... what if... Dream hurried to rush Ink to his room. Judging by the current time, Cross should be awake for his morning route. Rushing over to Cross's place, Dream wanted to see if this revelation was possible.

"Dream, you look tired, did you sleep?" Cross asked him.

"Never mind that, I need you to listen to this" Dream explained, "I know how to take care of Error's soul. I can't give you the details, but I'll tell you later if it's successful."

A week after that, Dream rubbed a swollen belly. He hadn't dared to tell Ink about "his child" yet. However, seeing that Dream couldn't hide it anymore... Dream had to confront Ink about it.

"Ink, can we talk... in private?" Dream asked as Ink was eating breakfast with some other Sanses.

"Sure, what is it?" Ink asked forgetting about the company.

Dream sighed, "like bedroom level of privacy."

"Oh... right, let me finish this up" Ink swallowed his food forgetting the chew factor.

The two lefts for Ink's room as the Sanses whispered among themselves at the table. Dream was certain that they could see the baby bump even if Ink were blind to it. As Dream close the door, he felt a magical impulse from the soulling inside as Dream nearly lost his balance.

"What is it?" Ink asked with confusion.

"Ink... remember the last time you fought Error?" Dream asked.

Ink slowly nodded, "Yeah... haven't seen him since."

"Well, you drank too much yellow at the party and vomit on me," Dream said quickly as he echoed the lie, he was practicing, "I didn't think much of it at the time, but I notice my magic was weird recently. I ended up visiting Medic and... well... I'm heavy with child."

"Heavy with child?" Ink looked confused.

"I'm pregnant with your kid by the magically charged ink you vomited on me" Dream bluntly told him.

"Your... what... since when do skeletons get pregnant that way?" Ink asked.

Dream shrugged, "I'm not technically a skeleton and there are few dryads that I can converse with... let alone nymph records."

"Oh... so in your case... you just need a honeybee with pollen to get... pregnant?" Ink asked as if trying to think of an explication.

"Dryads are not just oversize flowers" Dream sighed, "But yes, your vomit had enough pollen to... do the job."

Ink stared for a while in shock. Possessing the situation, Ink took a moment to think as he breathed easily. After a while, Dream worried about Ink negatively reacting to this due to the silence.

"Okay, I get it" Ink smiled, "So you want to officially announce that we're having a kid?"

"Really? You're okay with it?" Dream asked.

"It'll be hypocritical of me to disagree" Ink laughed to himself, "besides, this will be an interesting surprise for me."

"Oh, thank you Ink" Dream hugged him, "This means so much to me."

"Plus, it'll get those Sanses to stop flirting with me" Ink replied, "Apparently it's not enough to tell them that I'm Ace and Aro."

"Wait... what?" Dream pauses looking at Ink's face.

"Yeah, I mean... it'll be weird falling in love with my work in that sort of way... right?" Ink tilted his head a bit.

Dream felt his feelings crush as he realized his affection towards Ink would never work out. However, a part of Dream was still stubborn enough to keep on loving Ink. Dream didn't care if Ink ever returns his affection, he just wanted Ink to be happy.

"So... is it a girl or a boy?" Ink asked.

"Too soon to tell" Dream mumbled, "I just know that they'll be perfect."

Ink smiled, "Like a masterpiece? Let's see... Mona Lisa, Starry Night, er... what else."

Dream laughed, "Can I named our masterpiece?"

Ink laughed, "That works for me. Got any ideas?"

"Well... I want to bond with the soulling before I pick a name" Dream told him.

"Fair, so should we plan a baby shower? Maybe even a celebration of new life now that Error seems to be gone" Ink spitted the ideas out like his head couldn't contain them.

A pulse of energy came from the soulling as Dream nearly fell onto the ground. It was clear that the soul was conscious now, and that they weren't happy with the situation. Luckily, there will be a couple of months for the soul to adjust before taking their first step into their new life.

Chapter Text

I remember dying about… a hundred times now. Each time by Ink’s hand through different means. Poisoning, stabbing, chainsaws, each death was unique showing that Ink hadn’t gone stale over the years. Though his creative for the AUs have… when was the last time Ink didn’t make a clone AU? It felt like a million years has pass when new AUs could pop up. Now only clones came from Ink’s brush and that didn’t sit well with me.

Today, Ink decided to ambush me with a million copies. Those stupid copies are nothing but worthless glitches that take up precious space in the multiverse. Wanting to get this over with, I took out my gaster blasters to show that I wasn’t going to hold back this time.

“Ink, you think I’ll just let you beat me up again?” I asked in a deep voice.

The stupid skeleton hadn’t figure out about my reincarnation ability yet. The only Nightmare truly knows about it as the rest of the gang is vaguely aware of it. I didn’t want Ink to get any bright ideas about messing with my skill set so pretending that I live through all that was the best I could do.

Ink didn’t bother to make any comeback this time to show his serious nature. Dodging the first wave of attacks, I was quick to shoot down the first ones to attack. Soon the rest of the copies attacked, each one not holding back in the slightest. Things wore easy at first, but soon my eyesight was hindering my movements. Being unable to see attacks from multiple places, I got hit a few times. It didn’t help when a couple of Sans started to charge for close combat. Not liking the physical contact, I try to keep my distance… but for how long?

“Today is your last, Error!” Ink shouted among the fighting.

Ink was standing on top of a large painted gaster blaster. Other Sanses left the area in fear of the wide-range magic blast. I stood my ground as I saw an opening to escape this battle. Just as the bright wave of light was about to burn my bones into a brittle crisp, I teleported.

This should make those idiots think that I was vaporized for now. Taking a moment to breathe, I wanted to catch my breath before making a portal out of here. Once I felt ready, I opened a portal to leave… but something whizzed by my head and pin my scarf against a tree.

“W-what?” I muttered under my breath as I went to unpin my scarf.

A heavy body slammed into me, knocking me to the ground. The amount of physical contact was enough to cause a painful crash. My mind stuttered as I could no longer process the world around me.

The second my reboot cleared up; I was in a dark area. I blinked but couldn’t feel my sockets move. I tried to reach to touch my head, but I didn’t feel my arm moving. Confused, I lashed out in a spike of fear.

I notice I no longer had a body. I was just a floating soul as I felt magic slowly feeling up my essence. It reminded me of… Dream? Why was it in Dream’s presents? Why was his magic feeding my soul?

I could only assume that the attackers had taken advantage of my reboot state and killed me. Something about reboot messed up the reincarnation ability and now I’m stuck inside Dream. Normally when my reincarnation ability triggers, I end up in another grown-up Sans body. This was new and different. It scares me about what is to come.

Hearing muffled voices, it seems like Dream and Ink wore talking. Dream was talking about… being pregnant? Hold on, is he talking about me? Did this reincarnation go so badly that I’m being born as Dream’s kid? Even worse, I’ll be Ink’s kid as well.

Panicking, I felt Dream’s hand push close to me. Oh boy, I was stuck being the golden child of the two worse people in the multiverse. If I had a body right now, I would hyperventilate, or even just crash. Why wasn’t I crashing? Why did reincarnation go this badly?

Feeling shuffling, I finally saw a bright light. It looks like Dream unclothed his womb so Ink could see “Dream’s soulling” for himself. I watch as Ink pressed his hand over the ectoplasm surface of Dream’s belly. The two new parents talked about plans as I shiver in fear.

How long before Ink finds out and tries to kill me? Can I even reincarnate again into something normal? I… I should take a deep breath and see what happens. Hopefully, they won’t notice, and I’ll just return to my job after I grow up. … this should be okay… right?

After an unknown amount of time had passed since waking up like this, I could hear Dream’s breathing. It was hard and ragged like something was sapping all the energy out of his bones. Recalling that Dream was weak to negativity, and I haven’t fully calmed down since being a soulling… Dream must be exhausted from taking care of a scared soulling around the clock.

Exhausted to a point Dream’s soul go unconscious one day. Collapsing in the middle of one of Ink’s meetings, I heard a commotion from the other Sanses. The ensuing panic seems to even harm me as I was now more connected to Dream’s sensitive soul. It felt like needles wore being absorbed into my soul as the Sans muttered in confusion on what they should do.

For a second, I thought Dream stopped breathing as the Sanses panic rose. Feeling a sudden drop in the energy that Dream was sending to me, I knew this was bad. Guess if I wanted to live and not risk a possible failed reincarnation… I’ll have to generate a positive aura instead of a negative one.

Ick… I was never good with the positive stuff. Nightmare liked to keep me around for that reason. He would comment about how I made a good snack as he serves me a cup of chocolate tea. Oh… Nightmare would be missing me right now. I wonder if he was looking for me.

“Chocolate tea” I heard Dream mumbled in his weakened state.

“Yeah, chocolate tea is good” I automatically thought as a reply, “It was so bitter yet sweet. Nightmare knew just how to brew it exactly right… ya know?”

“B… Brother…” Dream mumbled again.

Wait… was Dream hearing my thoughts right now? Guess he was unconscious so he shouldn’t remember… right? Either way, I should control my thoughts for now.

“I’m so sorry… brother” Dream mumbled now.

Unsure of how to respond, I remain quiet as I tried to think of something positive. If I recall Nightmare’s words correctly, if Dream wore to die, Nightmare will also die as well. Giving me more of a reason to try not to kill myself with Dream with toxic ideals.

Slowly, my mind turned to knit. The way the strings wrapped around my fingers, the long needles, and itself… it was a peaceful way of thinking. Everything is in a state of intertwinement in a harmonized state. The soft knitted fabric cushions my battle-worn bones smoothly.

“Nin… Knitting” Dream muttered with a breath that sounded calmer.

It seemed like the scare was over as the Sanses started to calm down. Dream breathed calmly as if in a deep sleep. Somebody pick us up as I started to want to take a nap myself. All this positive thinking wore me out.

Chapter Text

Yawning, I stretch my soul out as I woke up. It felt like Dream was still asleep, but I could sense Dream’s soul was starting to come to. Moments later, Dream stretches his bones as loudly yawned. Hearing a chuckled nearby, it seems like somebody was with us. Ink? No… His laughs are different.

“Blueberry!” Dream gasp as he shuffled to sit up.

Blueberry is here? The youngest member of the star crew also doubled as a spy for Nightmare. Blueberry was my best friend and Dust’s boyfriend. If anybody could notice my identity, it would be him. Ah, if only I could talk to him.

“Chocolate tea?” I heard Dream asked.

Guess Blueberry was nearby when Dream had collapsed. Blueberry had a knack for detail and figure that Dream could use an item he muttered in his unconscious state. I wonder how the tea would taste, but I didn’t have a mouth to enjoy it.

“I was dreaming about Nightmare while drinking chocolate tea” Dream sighed, “It felt so real as I sat there sipping it. He was in his current form… but reading a book… I wonder what he was reading…”

Guess a little too much of my thought was bleeding into Dream’s soul during that timeframe. I should focus on what I was thinking of whenever Dream was asleep. However, Blueberry will pick up about this pregnancy not being normal.

“Oh yes… I did pass out” Dream muttered, “Well you see… I’m pregnant.”

Blueberry started to speak loudly as I couldn’t tell if he was shock or excited. Guess only Ink knew about me up until now. Still, Blueberry should be able to compare that dream with something Nightmare and I would do.

“It’s… Ink’s by magic” Dream explained to Blueberry, “Yes, he knows.”

Dream gave short answers to everything Blueberry was asking. However, I could start sensing that Blueberry was upset about something. I wonder what it was. Maybe Blueberry wanted a kid with Dust but didn’t want to risk coming out to the multiverse with who he was in love with?

“Blueberry, I’ll be fine” Dream sighed, “The little soulling has been stress with everything going on here. It’s my fault for not taking a leave to recharge. If it makes you feel better, I am seeing Medic tomorrow for a basic ultrasound to make sure they are developing properly.”

Blueberry sighed before asking something else. It sounded like he was concern over Dream’s health along with mine. Moments later, Blueberry hugged Dream.

“You know, this tea made the soulling happy for some reason” Dream reassure Blueberry, “I’m sure they wanted something sweet but couldn’t figure out how to tell me.”

Blueberry laughed before pulling away from Dream. Dream sipped the tea as I could taste the chocolate flavor in his mouth. It was strange that our senses wore a bit mix, but the scent of the tea was even more powerful. This was just like the brew Nightmare would make… except there was extra honey in it. Dream must have a sweet tooth, so Blueberry made it sweeter.

“Yep, they are enjoying the flavor” Dream told Blueberry, “I can tell. Thank you, Blueberry. You know just what we need before we can ask.”

Dream sipped more as I heard Blueberry’s footsteps getting further before a door opened and closed. A gloved hand wrapped around the womb as I wonder what Dream was thinking. Hearing Dream finish the tea and put the cup down, I felt a wash of relief over his sense of self.

“You’re quite troublesome” Dream sighed, “But I’m happy you’ve calm down. A bit close to death there… weren’t we?”

I felt a wave of Dream’s energy as if he were trying to cradle me. As much as I wanted to comment that Dream should focus more on his health, I don’t think he’ll listen to me. Guess the best I could do was attempting to mimic the energy pulse. This way Dream can focus more on his own energy levels.

Dream froze for a second before I heard him cheerfully spoke, “I’m glad you’re feeling happy and healthy now.”

A second later, the door burst open. I heard heavy footsteps as well as panting. He sounded scared and worried as Dream was still relaxed.

“Cross, I’m fine” Dream smiled, “I had some tea that Blueberry made me, and it helped.”

Hold on, betrayer Cross? He’s here? Nonono, you can’t trust him. I don’t know why he betrayed the gang for you guys, but it can’t be good for us.

“Ow” Dream muttered towards me.

I quieted down as I could tell that Dream didn’t want me in distress. More like Dream couldn’t handle more negative energy right now. Though that’s hard to do seeing I’m excepting Cross to backstab us.

“Cross please” Dream weakly coughed, “I just need some positive energy to recharge. I just had forgotten that I still need to gather some with all the joyous nature in the air about Error’s death.”

Guess Dream wasn’t telling Cross about me for now. I know Cross won’t hesitate to kill me when he finds out. The sense of loyalty was pretty screwed up.

“Cross, I am not getting fat or lazy!” Dream huffed, “I’m just heavy with child.”

An echo conversation happened between the two. That I’m Ink’s kid, and that Dream is okay. Cross seems a bit broken in his words though. As if he was hurt by the news. Did… did Cross like Dream more than he let on? Is that why he left the gang?

“Cross, please… I’m seeing Medic tomorrow” Dream told him, “Yes, I asked Ink to come with me. He’s pretty curious about this outcode level of development.”

Outcode level? Guess that means that Ink found the sudden pregnancy to be odd. Like Fresh or myself… this pregnancy didn’t occur naturally? I recall Ink being Ace so it must be an unnatural or an outcode view from his vision.

“No, you can’t come with me” Dream shook his head, “I don’t want monsters thinking they belong to you. You know other monsters don’t trust you yet and I… I don’t want the child to get hurt while monsters take revenge for things you’ve done.”

Ouch. Talk about a stab to Cross’s soul. Though I can agree with Dream’s logic. Monsters wouldn’t accept the golden star and a former gang member getting together. That would make me an easy topic for all the folks Cross had “cross” over the years. I wonder why Dream was so worried about people thinking Cross was the papa though. Was Cross my true papa and Dream didn’t want to admit it for my sake?

“Yes, I can share the results” Dream sighed, “Just… I’m tired and I could use some more positivity right now… so… can I… can you ask Blueberry to make some more chocolate tea? The soulling adores it right now.”

Chapter Text

“Medic, it’s a pleasure to see you” Dream hummed as he rubbed the walls of the womb softly.

Medic was a very unbiased doctor. He’ll heal both the star team and Nightmare’s gang without any issue. According to Medic, it was part of his doctor’s code to treat all patients equally and to never jump to diagnoses. Hopefully, Medic doesn’t tell Dream the whole truth about me being in his belly for my survival.

“Yes, we’re doing an ultrasound today,” Dream told him, “But um… Blueberry wanted me to make sure to tell you that yesterday…”

Dream rambled with what had happened as Medic stayed quiet. Ink, who had come with us out of curiosity more than being an actual father, was also quiet. You think Ink of all people would show a bit of emotion for Dream, but soulless Ink is still soulless.

“Yeah, I’m feeling better today,” Dream told him, “The soulling is still tense but… I don’t think it’s as bad as before. They enjoy chocolate tea which takes the edge off the overall stress level.”

Medic and Dream entered a conversation about everyday stuff. I couldn’t tell what the full conversation was about as I had trouble hearing anybody else besides Dream right now. So, the details of what the “yes” and “no” was outside of my knowledge for now.

Moments later, I felt Dream laying back as the light started to shine in the belly. Guess it was time for this “ultrasound” that Dream had brought up. Feeling a cold gel along the surface of the womb, I couldn’t help but shiver. Soon, a metallic piece presses down above me as I wondered what it was.

I didn’t sense anything from it aside from a slight tickle. Was… this a tickle test? Was that what an ultrasound was?

“Isn’t their daffodil shape soul adorable?” Dream asked quietly.

I heard a pair of murmurs that sounded like agreements. Medic went on about something as he gently moves the metallic piece around. It was either natural or a sign of good news. Still, why was my soul daffodil shaped now? Guess that’s another thing that went wrong in this reincarnation. I just hope that means Medic doesn’t know anything yet.

“That far along already” Dream sounded surprised but excited, “Guess that explains why I’ve been so tired lately. I wonder what their little bones will look like.”

I don’t recall monster pregnancy all that well… but it sounded like my soul was fully formed. That means my bones will slowly be formed until I’m ready to pop out. Knowing a general timeframe of my stay here was a relief but I worried that Dream would notice my odd black bones and have Medic run the further test.

“Do you know if they're a boy or a girl?” Dream asked, “I have a small list of names for both sides, but it’ll be nice to know.”

Medic’s answer didn’t seem to be what Dream wanted to hear. Medic must have said that it was too early to tell as Dream didn’t utter the gender aloud. Though… it’ll be strange if I was suddenly a girl. All my past lives had me as male, so it’ll be another sudden change for me.

“So, they have a clean bill of health?” Dream asked as he rubbed the womb himself now.

An affirmed answer brought relief to Dream as I notice the darkness of being under the clothing once more. Ink asked Medic a few questions as Medic answered each one calmly. Dream didn’t seem to bother me in this conversation as Dream send small waves of happiness to me.

Feeling reassures about my survival rate, I mimic the wave back. Nobody knew who I was, and I don’t have to worry about what I should do until after being born. For now, I’m on a strange vacation inside Dream’s belly.

“I can tell you’re going to be a cutie already” Dream cooed to me.

A strange feeling entered my soul. Cutie? Did… did Dream love me as their child already? Do… do I feel the same way but in reverse towards him? N-no, this positive energy is just getting to me.

“Aw, you’re flustered” Dream hummed.

I’m not flustered, you are! B-besides, it’s not my fault that positive energy keeps you and by extension myself alive. No wonder why Nightmare says you’re a pain in his neck to be around.

“I can’t wait to introduce you to the multiverse” Dream mumbled before asking, “Medic, would a baby shower be, okay? I don’t want to stress them out too much.”

I didn’t hear Medic's answer, but it seems like Dream got an answer through a nonverbal way as his shoulders drop in a bit of relief. Soon, Dream said his goodbyes as he left with Ink by his side. The two talk about a baby room in a good mood even if they wore unsure about my gender so far.

“Oh look, chocolate” Dream pointed out, “Can I have some Ink?”

Ink laughed as I wish I could drool. I want chocolate, please eat it for me Dream. Yes, chocolate tea is nice, but actual chocolate would be amazing. I want that sweet-bitter flavor so badly now.

“Alright, only one piece… but which one” Dream stated.

Only one? You can’t just enjoy one piece of chocolate. At least it’s better than no chocolate, I guess.

“Oh, Geno… I didn’t think of you as chocolate” Dream smiled.

Hold on… Geno? Like my friend or a copy? A copy. Friend Geno refuses to leave his AU.

“Wait, you too? I just finish with talking to Medic” Dream gasp, “We should be pregnant buddies.”

Bad idea, Genos tend to be full of negative energy. Though… a Geno getting pregnant? Wait, was this the Geno that Reaper would always talk about. Guess Medic asked that Reaper would stay outside as much as possible as he’ll scare the dying patients.

“Oh, I see… it was a nice thought at least” Dream sighed, “Got any name ideas? I’m thinking Daffodil if it’s a girl and Brush if it’s a boy.”

Those are terrible names. Like Asgore can name better than that. Ug, I bet “Daffodil” is only on the list because of my soul shape.

“It seems like those two names just got remove from the list” Dream nervously chuckled while rubbing his belly, “Anyways, tell Reaper that I said hi for me, okay?”

Chapter Text

“Your bones are so white, and you have your father’s tattoo marks” Dream gushed.

My bones wore fully formed now and Dream was talking to me more than ever. Seems like he was excited to have me in his family. It was nice to know that my bones wouldn’t give me away at least.

“Dream, it’s time for the shower” Blueberry spoke as he came up.

Yep, I can finally hear the others now. It was a relief to hear everybody’s voices more clearly now. Dream was happy that I wasn’t as stressed anymore, but I could tell today was going to be stressful with all the monsters coming.

“I do hope Ink tried to limit the number of monsters” Dream sighed, “I do enjoy the positive of a baby shower, but this little one doesn’t seem to like strangers.”

“I’m sure they’ll develop enough to share your aura sense now” Blueberry replied, “Once they understand that nobody is here to hurt them, they’ll slowly calm down and ease up.”

“I hope so… just… I made sure Medic was coming in case of another episode” Dream sighed, “or if they decided to pop out. I’m surprised Ink kept on forgetting the plans for this long.”

I’m not. Squid for brains has the memory of a goldfish. If you didn’t nag him over the tiny details, he’ll never get anything done.

“Look, I made a pot of chocolate tea in case things start to go south,” Blueberry told us, “Just send me a signal and I’ll grab a cup right away.”

Can I take a cup of that tea now, please? I don’t care if it’s not my mouth, I want some. Also, if you see fell, throw his underfell’s special dark chocolate into the pot. That’ll be so nice.

“You don’t mind if I take a cup now?” Dream laughed, “It appears they overheard our conversation and want some already.”

“Right ahead for you,” Blueberry said warmly.

This cup didn’t smell like the others as I started to wonder why. Then I remember the sleeping tacos that Blueberry pulled when the gang refused to sleep one night. He had snuck in sleeping drugs and it smelled like he did the same to this cup. Alarmed, I signaled that I was going to be okay without it with an energy wave.

Dream ignores my signal as he sipped the cup. I could sense the sleeping drug seep into my sense of self as I held back a yawn. Sluggishly, Dream put down the empty cup as it was clear he was already feeling the effects.

“You look exhausted,” Blueberry said in his false innocent voice, “How up you take a little nap before the baby shower?”

“N-no, I’ll be fine” Dream held back a yawn, “It’s better if I don’t worry myself to death if the soulling acts up.”

Blueberry frowned before saying, “Should I ask Cross you keep a close eye on you? I did hear he was coming today.”

“That’ll be nice… but it really should be Ink…” Dream muttered with a yawn.

A moment later, Blueberry was sitting next to us. It didn’t feel like his usual position as it felt intimidating this time. Looks like we’re getting a taste of the bitter side of the sweet berry.

“Just to make sure, you don’t know what happened to Error… right?” he whispered.

Dream gulped but said, “you know that Cross and I stayed out of that decisive battle. You know that he died there… or so the reports say.”

Blueberry pulled away with a frown, “Cross said the same thing… tsk.”

Looks like Blueberry has noticed my abstain but had no leads as to where I could be at. The gang was showing up to asked Ink directly about what happened the day of the ultimate battle. I’ll have to cross my tiny fingers that Cross is close enough to pull a drowsy Dream away before Nightmare can lash out.

“Blueberry, I know you care for Error but… don’t you think that drugging me is going too far?” Dream asked him.

“I didn’t drug you, you’re just tired,” Blueberry told him, “Now, let’s get you to the baby shower unless you want to go back to bed.”

Chapter Text

My mind felt numb with tiredness as guests came in to congratulate Dream. Sans after Sans came up to give a presentation or to say a few words. A few of them brought up a second creator was going to be born soon which was the cause of celebration.

“Imagine, soon a baby bones will be making AUs with their old man” Ink laughed.

Dream smiled slightly, “We don’t even know how much of your magic they have yet.”

“Judging by their golden tattoo, I think they’ll take a lot after me” Ink hummed.

Dream sighed, “Looks aren’t everything, Ink.”

“Yeah, I’m glad people finally stopped flirting with me” Ink scoffed, “Sure they are shipping us for a long happy life but… it’s better than being flirted with.”

Wait… did Ink, not like Dream? Dream liked Ink a lot as I felt a lot of pain through Dream’s tired soul from those words. Guess my “outcode level” of existence must have been some sort of accident between the two.

“Ink… I…” Dream started but yawned, “Guess I should see if Blueberry has some tea ready to drink. All the guests are here so I should be okay if I left for a second.”

“You sure? I could grab it for you” Ink blinked a few times.

“No, the soulling is starting to get a little restless and wants to move around for a bit” Dream counter, “please, carry on without me.”

As Dream left the noisy party room, the sounds of talking grew quiet for a bit. Soon a pair of voices started up as I easily recognize one of them as being Blueberry. The other was… Dust? Guess the gang did have plans to show up after all.

“Blueberry” Dream announced himself as if he didn’t fully care if Dust was in the room.

“D-dream, what are you doing here… in the kitchen” Blueberry stammered.

“All the guests are here so I thought I should take a small break for some tea” Dream told him, “The soulling is still on edge and I could use something to settle my stomach.”

“I understand, I’ll grab a cup in just a moment” Blueberry started before whispering to Dust to report back.

Did Dream plan to leave the party that moment because he knew that Blueberry needed a heads up? Did Dream figure out that Blueberry was a spy through my thoughts and decided to act in the path of least resistance for Blueberry’s sake? He wanted his brother to show up but couldn’t figure out how to fit it into the guest list.

“Shhh” Dream rubbed his womb, “Everything is going to be okay.”

“What was that?” Blueberry asked.

“I didn’t tell Cross where I was going” Dream sighed, “He’s going to be running around the whole place in a blind panic.”

“Here, drink this” Blueberry slid a cup towards Dream, “I’ll go grab Cross and tell him to keep an eye on you.”

“But people will talk” Dream whined.

Blueberry scoffed, “I’ll tell Cross that I left some chocolate cake in the fridge that was a prototype for today’s event.”

“Thanks, Blueberry… you’re the best” Dream sipped the sleeping infused tea.

Just as Blueberry left, I heard something slimy enter the room. They slipped around until they wore in front of Dream. I notice how relaxed Dream was, as I sent a few confused pings to the situation.

“Brother… It seems as you invited yourself over” Dream yawned, “I wanted to convinced Ink to let you come but… he refused to listen to me.”

“Sounds like you wore expecting me” Nightmare sighed.

“With the destroyer being assumed dead, it was bound you’ll come here asking questions sooner or later” Dream replied, “I did want to introduce you to your nephew or niece. It seems like Blueberry knew that I wanted to see you today.”

Nightmare scoffed before saying, “you think that Error is “assumed dead” not just simply dead like the others are saying. Could you explain?”

Dream wrapped an arm around his womb in a protective state, “Error just seemed so… unkillable… like… I’m pretty sure he lives through worse than what the reports have told me.”

“If Error was still alive and somehow managed to escape, why do you think I’m here?” Nightmare pointed out.

“You think that… somebody managed to kidnap Error while he was in a weaken state” Dream swirled his tea, “Who better to ask than the person who wants Error dead the most? Ink should still be with the others that are celebrating a new era in the multiverse.”

“All because you’re having a kid doesn’t mean it’s a new era” Nightmare hissed.

“I know” Dream looked to his hands, “That doesn’t mean I can’t sense a strong change occurring in the multiverse.”

Nightmare tentacles softly reached over and seemed to hold Dream in place. Looks like Nightmare didn’t like the idea of change that Dream spoke of like the lord of darkness struggle to withhold himself. A few seconds, he let go and sighed. Wait… was he sad about my disappearance?

“Dream… if you know anything… anything that might be a lead” Nightmare breathed quietly, “I need to know right now. You know things are going to get very ugly between us if I don’t have an answer to where Error is.”

“I guess despite all the negativity, you believe that “Life will find a way” don’t you?” Dream asked before saying, “I’m sorry, but I can’t give you any answers.”

Nightmare slammed Dream into the wall with his tentacles, “What did Cross say about Error?”

“What?” Dream asked with confusion, “Cross only said that he didn’t get a chance to talk to Error because of their past.”

“I’m certain he said more than that… don’t think I haven’t noticed how buddy, buddy Cross has been with you” Nightmare sighed, “In fact, Cross should be getting here now.”

“Nightmare, let Dream go, right now” Cross growled from the kitchen door.

“Oh, Cross… you know something about Error, right? Something that the star crew would be extremely interested in knowing” Nightmare grin.

Cross spoke calmly, “You mean about how Error can’t die? It was one of his abilities or something… I only told Dream after that last battle with Error. Neither he nor the others have anything to do with Error.”

“I see… so you two do think that I’m an idiot” Nightmare growled, “You think that one member of my family decides to backstab me without a full plan on how to completely kill both Error and me?”

“I didn’t have a plan when I left” Cross hissed, “Do you have any idea what I was going through? Seeing somebody that once stole my soul butter up to somebody that I view more than just my boss. You think I couldn’t tell that the two of you wore secretly dating behind the gang’s back. You didn’t even think how much it would hurt me the moment I figure out that you’ll never return my feelings.”

Nightmare chuckled, “yet you still live in the same torment. It’s only a matter of time before you regret that you decided to change sides.”

“At least I’m not being stubborn enough to keep repeating my sins in the past” Cross scoffed.

I felt Nightmare’s tentacles twitch as I started to sense pain. Both from myself and Dream’s soul. The pressure of being squashed by a tentacle was too much for my soft bones to handle as Dream’s neck seemed to be having trouble getting air through. I made a soft pained pulse to Dream as I was terrified of the situation.

“Look, we don’t have your answers,” Cross told him, “So just put Dream down and leave.”

I felt the sleeping poison from the tea seep more deeply into me as I found it hard to stay awake. Dream was the same as he seemed to be nodding off as well. I tried to fight it off, but it was hard as I started to feel cold. Like somebody threw me into a Snowdin’s snowdrift type of cold. Shivering my bones for some heat, Nightmare finally let us go.

“Dream, are you okay?” Cross rushed over to our side.

Nightmare grunted, “you’re lucky I still need to integrate that stupid ink blob. Next time we meet, I won’t go so easy.”

Dream coughed as he gasps for the air he was starved of. I felt a small warmth pulse from Dream as if to ask if I was okay. My mind was far too muddled to make a clear pulse as I attempted to make one in return. I could sense Dream’s soul sinking as he asked Cross to get Medic right away.

Chapter Text

Where… Where was I? I remember being in Dream’s womb and it was the day of the baby shower. Then Nightmare… Nightmare!

Sending out a panic pulse, I noticed that Dream didn’t automatically respond. Confused I notice that my body felt heavy as if it lost the buoyance of being submerged in a liquid. A chill breeze went over my bones as I noticed that there was no liquid keeping my body cushioned. Did… did something bad happen to Dream? Why was I not in his body anymore?

Opening my sockets, I notice I was inside a strange container. It was made of glass as I notice Medic on the outside. He looked worried as a pair of plastic hands came into the container, I was in. Though they didn’t seem to be pulling me out. It was more like they wore checking my bones for potential injuries.

“Minor reflex response” Medic called out, “she should be out of the woods, but let’s keep a close eye on her.”

She? Her? Was he talking about me? Am I a girl? Also “out of the woods” was I… was I close to death? So many questions but nobody could answer them for me now.

“She’s going to be, okay… right?” Dream spoke.

It felt weird hearing Dream’s voice so far away from me. Medic nodded as he pulled his hands away, but the place gloves still seem to remain in here with me. Guess Medic thought it was necessary to pull me out to make sure I was okay. I was feeling cold before I passed out. Now I’m warm again as I took breathes through my nose hole where… a tube was… it was pushing air into me, but I could easily push it back out without much thought.

Looking at my hand, the bone was cover in a soft feather-like substance. Compare to my last body, the bones felt flexible but also very fragile. I don’t think I was meant to come out yet… can Medic put me back in? No, that is ridiculous.

“Until her bone density increases, we’re going to keep her inside the unit” Medic stated, “Yes, you’ll be allowed to stay by her side 24-7.”

“Thank you, Medic” Dream cried softly, “If you weren’t around, I don’t know what would have happened.”

“She would had dusted” Medic sighed, “Why on earth did you think it was okay to take a sleeping drug?”

“What sleeping drug?” Dream tilted his head, “I didn’t… wait… Medic, if you see Blueberry in the waiting room, can you tell him that babies and sleeping medications don’t mix.”

“Oh… so he overdid it again… I was wondering why it felt so familiar” Medic groaned slightly, “I’ll explain it to Blueberry. If I see Ink or Cross, should I send them in?”

“Yes, and Blueberry too if he’s not guilt-ridden,” Dream told him, “I’m not ready for a sobbing Blue right now.”

“Understood” Medic nodded, “Remember to keep an eye on her and call for a nurse if anything seems off to you.”

Soon, Medic left as Dream settled down outside the container. Dream reached into the plastic glove and gently rubbed my hand. My fingers curled to hold it as Dream sent a minor warm pulse through the glove. I mimic the response as I didn’t want to think hard about what kind of message, I wanted to send to him.

“I’m so happy you’re okay,” Dream told me, “I was so scared when you started sending me the pain signals before it got really weak.”

I could see golden tears streaming out of Dream’s socket as his free hand tried to wipe them away. My rough start into the multiverse must have taken a mental toll on Dream’s psyche. I felt a wave of relief pulse through his hand, which I mimic with my relief of being warm.

“Dream, I heard I could come in,” Cross said at the door, “Medic asked for Ink, but he’s busy cleaning up the aftermath right now.”

“Cross, isn’t she gorgeous?” Dream asked as his free hand beckoned him to come over.

Cross came to Dream’s side and place a hand on his shoulder. He looked both happy and sad at the same time as Dream continued to watch me. A few moments pass as I could only hear the monitor’s occasionally beeping.

“Dream… are you sure about this?” Cross finally asked.

“About what?” Dream replied.

“Saying that it’s Ink’s child and raising them that way” Cross breathed out, “You know I’ll gladly be the father even if it’s not mine by magic.”

Dream’s body shivered slightly, “Cross… You know better than anyone that I’m in love with Ink.”

“That doesn’t mean it’s healthy to…” Cross paused, “Look if Ink isn’t a good father… I’ll take up the mantle. You don’t need to push me away because of what the multiverse might say. You know I don’t care about that.”

“But I do” Dream sighed, “When you can sense everyone’s emotions and feed off them, it… it makes my week when monsters look at us with such rage.”

Cross lowered his voice, “Are you in love with Ink because of those same monsters?”

“I… No!” Dream shifted away from Cross’s hand, “I do love Ink, you know that.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to… just…” Cross glanced my way for a second, “I should message Ink to get his stupid paintbrush over here, so they have something to wear at least.”

“Broomie isn’t stupid” Dream sighed, “But yes, I’ll just… be keeping an eye on her…”

“Dream… remember to get some rest after Ink gets here,” Cross told him, “Even if that means that I’ll stay up to look after her if you’re that worried.”

Cross walked out of the room as Dream slouched. He looked exhausted now that I’m looking. Though I wonder why Cross was so… selfless when it came to Dream and myself. Offering to be the father even though I should be Ink’s kid is a lot. Did… did Cross betray the gang to fall in love with Dream? After what Cross said before I passed out, it makes sense.

“It felt like yesterday I first saw you as a soulling” Dream hummed softly, “Now you’re in the multiverse far sooner than what I plan. Forgive me if things aren’t perfect for you yet.”

About a week after that, my bones have slowly gotten stronger. Dream was a force to sleep by Cross’s demand as he took the night watches. Even with Cross’s help, Dream still seems dead tired as he didn’t want to leave my side.

“Okay, I think you can hold her now, Dream” Medic said as I felt him lifting me out of the container.

Dream smiled warmly, “I was worried that she was going to be in there for the rest of her life.”

“Heh, it certainly does feel that way” Medic said before gently handing me off to Dream.

It felt so weird to feel so tiny now. I was tall in my past reincarnations, so being small for the first time was like being in one of Ink’s small is big AUs. While my body seemed okay in Dream’s arms, I know it won’t be okay in most Sans’. I didn’t like being touch normally, and Dream’s casual aura was enough to negate any negative effect his touch might have for the moment.

“There you go” Medic hummed, “Now, did you think of any names so far?”

“Well, out of the girl's name that I had listed…” Dream thought for a moment, “She looks like an Easter.”

Medic smiled, “Easter? Yes, she does.”

“Easter, my lovely little Daffodil” Dream softly nuzzled my belly, “I’ll give you the best life I can, alright?”

Ink came in with a new set of baby clothes, “I think I got a handle on how baby clothing is supposed to work and… wait, she’s ready to hold now?”

“Inky, did you want to hold your daughter?” Dream asks as he rubbed my skull.

Ink came over, “Yeah, if… if I can.”

Dream slowly put me in Ink’s arms. Dream corrected Ink on how to hold me but… this was too much. All I can see is Ink slowly trying to kill me off like my past deaths. I started kicking my legs wildly as I didn’t want him to hold me. Ink struggled to hold me before handing me back to Dream.

“Sorry, guess I should wait a bit longer before holding her” Ink sounded a bit sad before looking at the clothing, “We can dress her up a bit now… right?”

Medic nodded, “Just be gentle. Now I have some paperwork to do, so I’ll leave you to be.”

“Easter, do you want to see what Ink made for you?” Dream asked.

Frowning, I wasn’t in the mood for being Ink’s little dress-up doll. Can’t I just relax without worrying for a little bit? I’m sure Ink made those dresses a bit too colorful for me.

Chapter Text

A few days after Ink’s dress-up party and decided that lavender was my color. Dream was able to take me home as Medic gave the all-clear. However, something bugged Dream that prevented him from automatically packing his bags.

“Medic, don’t you think she’s too quiet” Dream pointed out, “I haven’t heard her cry or whine or… anything else. The only thing she does is sends me emotion pulses, but that’s only useful when we’re already touching.”

Medic rubbed his eye sockets, “I’ve checked everything. Injury, mutation, incomplete magic, and even sickness. She can make sounds; nothing is stopping her from doing so. I can recommend Alter for finding a more phycological reason, but aside from that I don’t have any more help I can offer.”

“Alter… yes, a Toriel approach would help my nerves” Dream hummed, “thanks Medic, I’ll call Alter after we get little Easter set up comfortably at home.”

Ink came by to help Dream and me to the base before heading to my room. Too much color. That was my first thought about my new room. It was over cluttered with pinks and purples along with way too many toys. It hurts my skull. Dream, why didn’t you ask Ink to make it simple?

“Looks like somebody a bit fussy” Dream teased me.

I’m not being fussy; I don’t like how messy this room is. Make Ink take it all out, all of it. Just leave the room a crystal white. This is too much for me to handle.

“I’m sure she’ll enjoy the room more at night” Ink smiled as he looked to a note on his scarf, “I overheard Outer and Color talking about their ideal baby room at the baby shower before… anyways, I added some nighttime features that’ll scare the demons under the bed away.”

“I hope it only scares the demons” Dream laughed, “I think little Easter might be a bit on the skittish side.”

“Oh, did you ask Medic if she needs paints?” Ink randomly asked.

“Paints? Oh, emotions. No, her emotions are intact” Dream told Ink, “So try not to feed her paints, okay?”

“Right” Ink rubbed his skull.

Dream gentle laid me down in the cradle. Not liking this strange room, I sent out an energy pulse of distress. Dream decided to ignore my pled as he let me go all the way. Guess Dream wasn’t going to baby me despite my size.

“Now, I know you had a long day” Dream calmly told me, “I can tell you tired so let’s try out your father’s nighttime features and see if you can’t get some sleep.”

With that, the lights in the room turned off. However, something else came on that took away all my troubles. A bunch of tiny lights lit up the ceiling that seems to mimic outertale. I reached up with my tiny hands to grab the little lights. The dancing balls of fire that I recall wore still much better, but stars are stars.

“Look at her tiny hands” Dream gushed.

“As I said, it’ll scare the demons” Ink snorted.

Dream smiled, “We should get some cakes while Easter has her nap.”

“I could use some rainbow cake” Ink hummed as the two walked out of the room.

So… this was my room now. My home… no… it doesn’t feel like a home yet. It smells like paint, and I don’t like that smell. I like the smell of yarn and chocolate, but it might be a few years before I can get the chance to fill my room with bundles of yarn and secret stashes of chocolate.

Since Dream and Ink wore out of the room, I should test my magic. Let’s see, strings, no… portals, nope… gaster blaster would be too advance and I didn’t have my bone attacks ether now. Guess whatever occur had reset my magic pool to factory settings.

Working on movement should be my next step. I didn’t want to simply lay here all day while who knows what is happening outside my door. Like what if Ink decides to plot my death? Or if Nightmare pays a visit again? I should be prepared.

“Error, why aren’t you working?”

“Are you asking for the multiverse to collapse?”

Great… the voices came back. I was wondering where they wore these past few months. As Error, they only talked to me when I was either stressed or alone. Seeing that I was alone… of course, they’ll pick now to start up again.

As the voices rambled about how useless I was, I shivered in the crib. Why did Dream leave me alone? How long before he checks on me?

Hearing the door open and the lights turn back on. I wanted to cover my sockets from the harsh light. Soon a pair of hands picked my body up and held me close. Sending out a pulse that I feared, I heard a sigh.

“Easter… what has you so spooked?” Dream asked me as he sat down in a rocking chair, “Nothing can hurt you here. This is a safe place with plenty of love all for you.”

Dream pulled out his phone and started to call somebody. Guess he decided that seeing Alter sooner was much better than later. Placing the phone to his ear, I couldn’t hear the full conversation.

“Alter, hi, it’s Dream” Dream stated, “So, I’m sure you heard about the baby… yes, I’m holding her right now… Yeah, you can come over to say hi… I just… It’s just that I’m worried about a couple of things and since Medic couldn’t help, he recommended that I talk to you… you will? Thank you so much, see ya.”

Dream hung up and place his phone down. I blinked a few times as Dream limped back into the chair and rocked slowly. The soft swaying helped my fragile mind, but I didn’t want to sleep. I still felt overloaded with the colorful room as I shifted my head into Dream’s outfit for shelter.

Wait a moment, this wasn’t Dream’s usual clothing. I didn’t realize it just now, but Dream had a completely different outfit from what he had in my previous life. At least he didn’t seem as stupid or childish looking now in this outfit. With the less like a superhero in a comic to more of a priest or spirit medium.

“Easter, what are you doing?” Dream asked, “Can you even breathe like that?”

Giving a loud sigh, I answered the second part of Dream’s question. Dream ponders for a moment before rubbing my skull and slowly closing his sockets. I’m sure he fell asleep while still sitting up in that rocking chair as I laid awake unsure of how to fall asleep.

Chapter Text

“Dream!” Ink shouted as he slammed the door open.

Dream snorted awake and almost dropped me. Stressed, I grabbed onto Dream’s clothing fearing the sudden drop. Ink stared at us as Dream quickly went to adjust his hold on me.

“It’s bad,” Ink told us, “Sans and Papyrus have been vanishing across the AUs. An emergency meeting has been issued to address this.”

“What about Easter? I can’t just leave her completely alone for one of your meetings” Dream replied.

“Then take her along” Ink replied, “It might help some of the Sans relax to see a cute bundle.”

“Or make them more anxious if they don’t think we’re serious” Dream replied, “But fine… let’s go.”

Dream held my body close to his chest as the two hurried down the hallway. Minutes later, the two entered a room filled with Sans. Most of them I recognized for attempting to harm me in my past lives. Shivering I gripped onto Dream tightly as I didn’t want to get close to me.

“Ink, do you think the bad sans are behind this?” Fell asked.

Color shook his head, “They have been across the AUs but they're more interested in looking for Error than starting a fight or kidnapping.”

“They just can’t accept that he’s dead… can they?” Echo sighed with a puff of smoke from his cigarette.

“Do we have any clues or leads on what might have happened?” Dream asked, “If my brother was responsible, there would be signs of a struggle.”

“No, they just sort of… poof” Classic stated, “No clues at their last known location or anything else out of the ordinary.”

“That must mean somebody new is behind this” Ink rubbed his chin.

For once, the squid was right. If the gang was behind the kidnappings, they’ll only target the Player as a straightforward way to cause an AU to collapse without my magic. Targeting a key character in AUs was much slower or could easily be repaired by Ink’s creative skill. If Nightmare were aiming for a reincarnation gone wrong, he would aim for Sans behaving oddly for a few weeks before expanding his range to Papyrus.

“Guys” Blueberry burst into the meeting, “I think I know what happened to the kidnapped Papyruses.”

Blueberry placed photos on the table as everybody grabs one to look at them. I notice that Dream didn’t pick one up as he shielded my head from seeing them. I heard Fell ran off to a potted plant to vomit as a collected murmur of horror overtook the Sanses’ conversation.

“Dream, Cross is familiar with code” Ink brought up, “ask him to do an autopsy.”

“What? No, we’re not letting that possible spy for Nightmare cover up the crime scene” Echo sighed, “Blueberry, do you have any idea what could have caused this?”

“W-well… it looks like… code corruption to me but… it’s different from Error’s” Blueberry replied, “I’m not even sure if Cross could make heads or tails out of the code even if we did let him look at the bodies.”

Code corruption? That must mean an AU must have gotten a virus. Normally, I take out those AUs but I can’t do that anymore. An infected AU tends to spread to nearby AUs, but attack? This wasn’t a good sign for the state of the multiverse.

“I’ll ask Cross to look into anyway” Dream replied, “the more info we can get the better.”

Dream pulled out his phone and started to text Cross. Ink stared at the photographs as Dream made sure that I didn’t see them. Blueberry looks paranoid about the situation which does mean that the gang isn’t involved in any way. So… virus-inflected induvial(s) are out attacking Sans and Papyrus… why though?

“I’m going to head out and warn other AUs to not be alone for now” Echo stated as he got up, “they should at least know a basic pattern so they can avoid being next.”

Color nodded and got up, “I’ll go too, the faster AUs are aware the better.”

Most of the Sans left for broadcasting an emergency level news to the rest of the AUs. This left Dream, Ink, Blueberry, and me. Oh, Cross just got here so there one more in the group still in the room.

“Cross, I need you to check on somebodies with Blueberry” Dream told him, “Blueberry, can you fill him in? I want to be as swift as possible before more goes missing.”

Blueberry nodded and left with Cross. I shifted in Dream’s arms as I wanted to see the photographs. Ink seemed a bit confused for a moment before gathering up the photos.

“I’m going to ask Sci if he can prepare a code anti-corruption firewall” Ink stated, “Dream, hold down the fort and try to keep the panic level to a min if other Sans come here to ask questions. Maybe have Easter practice some positive aura magic, or whatever you call it? That’ll help.”

Ink left the room with the photos as I frown. Guess I wasn’t going to learn about those photos until I was deemed old enough. Dream softly patted my head before heading into another part of the building.

A room filled with Sans asking each other questions was the room that Dream decided to stop in. The Sans looked to Dream for answers as Dream slowly repeated everything he knew. I notice how the panic in the air was starting to seep into Dream’s bones making them quiver. Even I somehow felt a bit weak from the stressed skeletons. Skeletons that wore the same as those who… hurt me in my past lives.

Shaking with fear, I tried to ignore the thoughts of being attack. Though with all the panic sounds and a few more aggressive sans made it hard to tell the difference between then and now. Tears seep out of my sockets as I wanted to hide.

The fear in the air seemed to sink into my bones which only amplified my fear. It felt like daggers scraping along with my soul. It hurts… it hurts… it hurts, it hurts, it hurts!

“Wa…aaaaaahhhhh!”

Dream stood in shock for a moment before adjusting his hold. My mouth press against his clothing to muffle the sound as Dream rubbed my back. Not being able to see the Sanses made things worse as I didn’t know if they wore preparing to attack me.

Suddenly, I have pulled away from Dream as my cries grew in panic. The next thing I knew, Dream had collapsed onto the ground. The new person holding me must have known Dream was close to passing out and had grabbed me just in time.

“Dream!” Blueberry called out to the pass-out skeleton.

Blueberry must have returned before Cross as Cross wouldn’t need any help in reading code. Blueberry went to Dream’s side and lifted his head. Dream seemed to be breathing, but Blueberry still looked worried.

“I’ll take Dream to his bedroom,” Blueberry said out loud, “Alter, I can show you where Easter’s room is along the way.”

Chapter Text

“Shh, baby girl, your mama is okay” Alter told me as he gently rocks me.

Blueberry had already gone off to take Dream to his bed. Alter was in this chaos-filled room as he tried to calm me down. I wasn’t crying about Dream fainting but more from insecurity. So many Sanses would be ready and able the second they found out the truth. So many of them willing to kill off a kid for things that occur in their past lives.

“Is it because you saw so many people you didn’t recognize?” Alter ask me, “Are you overwhelmed by everything happening right now? Don’t worry, Alter is here and nobody new is…”

“I just finish tucking Dream into bed” Blueberry said as he opened the door, “How’s Easter?”

My cries answered Blueberry as Alter rubbed circles on my back. Blueberry stood in the door unsure if he should stay or go. Alter signal him to stay as he adjusted his hold slightly.

“At least she’s crying” Blueberry replied, “I heard from Cross that Dream’s worried about how quiet she was.”

“So that’s what Dream wanted to talk to me about” Alter hummed, “I was starting to worry that she was crying too much.”

Sniffling, I felt a bit better now that Blueberry was here. Sure, he gave Dream a sleeping tea, but I know he wouldn’t cause trouble while Nightmare still needs a pair of eye lights on the inside. Besides, he’s somebody I know I can trust with a secret.

“See, nothing to be worried about” Alter cooed at me, “It’s just Alter, Blueberry, and you, Easter. No scary monster. Mama is doing okay; he just needs some rest.”

I heard my stomach gurgled as I wonder how I was going to eat. Dream been giving me a strange apple flavored milk from his soul, but he’s too tired to feed me. Wondering what my next meal was, I started to suck on my fingers.

“I think she’s hungry” Blueberry commented, “Dream didn’t buy anything we can feed her though…”

“Don’t worry, I brought some dried formula” Alter replied, “I can make it if you can hold her.”

Alter didn’t wait for an answer as he handed me to Blue. Blueberry struggled to hold me like he’s never held a baby before. I could feel his bones shivering as he didn’t if he were supporting my neck all right.

“You’re doing fine” Alter hummed, “stay here, I’ll be back with the formula as soon as it’s ready.”

Blueberry nodded as Alter left. A few moments Blueberry sat down as he couldn’t take his eyes off me. He was far too nervous.

“S-so… you’re Easter” Blueberry started, “I um… do you remember the chocolate tea I gave your mom?”

I smiled softly and reached to Blueberry’s face. Blueberry blinked a few times as he went to hold my outstretched hand. His gloved hands felt so huge now as he wrapped it around my hand. Guess I really was a small little skeleton now but… I remember how small his hands used to be compared to mine.

“Heh, guess you do” Blueberry chuckled to himself, “Sorry, but Dream would kill me I gave you some chocolate tea right now.”

Pretending to pout, I stuck out my tongues. Blueberry looked a bit shocked at first. I recall how Blueberry had told me that most skeletons have one tongue, yet I clearly felt three sticking out of my mouth. I kept sticking my tongues out as Blueberry started to mimic me.

Putting my tongue in after a while, I felt my stomach growl again. While I was starting to whine about the pain, Blueberry slowly started to panic. Lucky for Blueberry, Alter came into the room with a fresh bottle.

“Do you want to feed her?” Alter asked.

“I um… no… you do it” Blueberry replied.

Alter sighed, “Considering that your one of the people Dream’s trusts, knowing how to feed her is a needed skill at this point.”

“I don’t think Dream trust me right now… not after what happened” Blueberry sighed.

Alter sighed, “So? I don’t think Dream can be mad at anybody for long.”

Blueberry didn’t reply to Alter’s statement. Alter decided to move things along by adjusting Blueberry’s hold on me. Soon Alter put a bottle in Blueberry’s hand and had the bottle press up to my teeth. I opened my mouth as the strange tip of the bottle entered my mouth.

Normally, I would spit it out thinking it was poison, but Blueberry didn’t look confident right now. I shouldn’t force him to handle a fussy baby… right? Besides, Dream was pressured enough as it was, and I’ll need Dream to make sure I can make it to adulthood okay.

Sucking on the weird plastic, a dry liquid entered my mouth. Swallowing, I started to drink from the bottle. I would prefer apple milk compare to this, but I wasn’t allowed to be a fussy eater right now.

“She… She’s eating” Blueberry let out a sigh of relief.

Alter smiled and stood up, “Yep, now make sure to drink your fill, Easter. Your mama needs you in good health so he can recover faster.”

After I fished up the bottle, I gave a soft yawn. A lot happened today, and I could use some of that recovery time as well. Blueberry started to cradle me as Alter went to go clean the bottle. Rubbing my sockets, I lean into Blueberry’s body naturally. I could almost hear his soul beating within his ribcage.

“Looks like somebody is ready for a nap,” Blueberry told me, “Let’s see… do I know any good songs?”

A few moments of thinking, Blueberry started to sing in French. I think it was a song that Horror also sung while working as well. He had said it was about the plucking of feathers of a lark when Killer had made fun of him for speaking French. I’m surprised Blueberry knows it though. He hardly spent time together with Horror and tends to speak with Dust.

Softly falling asleep, I wonder what sort of dreams I’ll have. I’ll wake up from this dream and be in my normal body. Wait… do I even want to wake up if this is a dream? Sure, I have a job but… a life without pain sounded too good to be true for me.

When I woke up, I saw Dream’s smiling face. I could see the bags under his eyes, but he didn’t seem to mind. As Dream started to pick me up, I notice that Alter was here but no signs of Blueberry.

“Good day, my lovely Daffodil” Dream cooed, “I heard you fell asleep while Uncle Blueberry was holding you. Wasn’t that sweet of him to keep an eye on you like that.”

“Sorry things took so long,” Ink said as he entered the room, “I got a call saying that you collapse Dream.”

“It’s fine” Dream lied, “I was just feeling a bit tired with all the negative emotions.”

“Anyways, Sci is working on the information we have about the situation” Ink updated him, “Sci said I was getting in the way when Blueberry’s call finally came through.”

“Can we… drop the topic when Easter can hear this? I… I don’t want to worry her” Dream told Ink.

Ink blinked before sighed, “Right, so… um… I should get going…”

“Ink, Alter is here to help us with Easter” Dream stopped him, “Why don’t you come over and hold her for a moment?”

No, I don’t want that squid holding me.

“Alright,” Ink smiled slightly, “Has her magic started to show yet?”

“Ink, don’t be so impatient” Dream huffed, “She’s far too young to start using magic.”

Slowly, Dream handed me to Ink. I started to kick and fail my limbs as soon as I was completely handed off. Ink struggle to hold me as I did everything I could to warrant Dream taking me out of his grasp. Which didn’t happen, but at least I’m making this stupid squid suffer.

“I um… Alter…” Ink stammered unsure of what to do.

“You wore right about her being a little too quiet” Alter replied as he grabs something else from his bag, “I wonder if this would help.”

Alter didn’t take me from Ink’s hold, but he did go to hold my arm out. A soft brushing went along my bones as I froze in shock at first. A strange sponge with a brush-like surface on one side was being dragged along as I wasn’t sure if I should be scared.

Was it a torture device? Was it going to rub my bones away into nothing? Was it… something that feels good?

The sensation of the soft brush eased my current predicament. It was touch, but it didn’t hurt like what touch often did in my last body. Did it felt… safe? Warm? Home?

“Now you try” Alter said as he sat Ink down in a chair.

Slowly the strange brush changed from Alter’s hand to Ink’s as he mimicked the movements. I would complain but… something about this brush seemed to ease my troubled mind. Dream relaxed his tense shoulders as I didn’t complain though. Maybe… I should focus more on getting Ink distracted from his work for the multiverse’s sake.

“I have a few theories on what is going on” Alter spoke up, “Though the main theory results in an array of different tips and tricks for each kid. We’ll start with simple things that should make your guys’ lives easier regardless of if my theories are true though.”

“Simple things? Like what?” Dream asked.

“Simplifying this room for starters” Alter answered, “it’s way too bright and colorful for any baby. We don’t want to overload them with few different inputs.”

“But rooms are made to be colorful” Ink complained, “I can’t have anything be white.”

“You could just paint the walls pink with one cartoon depiction on it” Alter told him, “Also, some of these toys are for older children, let’s put them into boxes and store them for later.”

Ink didn’t seem so happy but agreed to Alter’s changes. Handing me to Dream, Ink got started on the room redecorating. Alter pulled out a notebook as he wrote down a list of other changes. Such as limited noises, figuring out what sounds I like, making an actual schedule for day-to-day life. Dream looked a bit lost in Alter’s explanation but I’m sure Alter wouldn’t leave until both parents had a complete understanding of what is to happen.

“Now, Dream, I know this is a lot” Alter said, “But if Easter does get to be too much for you, you can put her down and leave the room to calm down. We don’t expect you to take care of Easter until you pass out.”

Dream looked at me before looking to Alter, “Are you sure?”

“Yes, I’m sure” Alter nodded, “You can even put my number on speed dial so I can come over anytime. Even if you think she’s being too fussy, I’ll make sure she’s okay when you need time to yourself.”

“Thanks, Alter, you don’t know how much that means to me,” Dream said while looking relieved.

Chapter Text

“Blueberry, I’m so happy to see you” Dream smiled and hugged the star member, “Why did you leave so quickly last time? I was worried that something else came up.”

Blueberry looked away, “Sorry, Stretch demanded that I return home when he overheard what happened. You know how he is…”

Knowing Blue, he was hiding a few bruises that Stretch gave him. That was always the case when Blue would hide with me in the anti-void instead of doing star sans work. I even brought him to the bad sans base to ask them for some medical help after Blue was hit on the head with a glass bottle. It’s how the gang ended up adopting the berry blue skeleton.

“Blueberry, is that a bruise?” Dream asks as he pulled Blue’s sleeve up, “Did you get this during the baby shower? That was months ago though…”

Blueberry gulped, “I was training with Alphys and landed the wrong way. I’m fine.”

“I’ll get the healing cream” Dream told him.

“I said I’m fine though” Blueberry tried to calm Dream down, but the little ball of sunshine already had left for the cream.

Blueberry sighed as he gave me an uneasy look. I should go easy on him since Stretch must have been extra rough on him this time. How to help though…

Grabbing a nearby toy, I held it up to show it to Blueberry. As strange as it was, the toy in question was a plush blueberry. The skeleton stared for a moment before sitting down in front of me.

“Did you grab that because you heard the word blueberry?” Blueberry asked me sweetly.

Before I could respond, Blueberry’s phone went off. He looked at it with a sweet yet annoyed look. I saw him typing through his gloved hands as I wonder who he was testing. I’m betting it was Dust, but anybody from the gang could have texted.

“Here we go, one jar of healing cream” Dream said before entering the room.

Blueberry nearly dropped his phone before hiding it in his pocket. Yep, it was a gang member. I wonder if they wore just checking upon him.

“Dream, I told you, I’m fine” Blueberry replied, “Don’t treat it like Easter got the bruise.”

“I know… just…” Dream stammered a bit lost, “I want to make sure it’s okay.”

Dream knelt next to Blueberry and started to apply the light-green cream. Blueberry didn’t physically remove Dream’s hand, but you could tell he was annoyed. Normally the gang was quick to help each other out even Blueberry would let the other gang members tend to a small scratch. Why was he treated Dream’s offer as unwelcomed?

“Okay, that’s enough,” Blueberry said shifting away, “I don’t need the whole jar for a single bruise.”

Dream put the lid back on the jar, “Alright just… let me know if you need anything else.”

Blueberry sighed, “Anyways, how’s Easter doing today?”

“She got her first sink bath today” Dream cooed, “Ink insisted we take photos so he could scrapbook them later.”

Don’t remind me. I hated the idea of being bare boned in front of him. That stupid smile as he took photos of Dream’s arduous work trying to make sure all my little bones wore clean. At least Ink wasn’t the one bathing me, but still… you better not post that on the multi-web.

Dream snorted, “Oh don’t give me that face Easter. You know how important photos are to your father.”

So all because Ink has the memory of a goldfish, it makes it okay to take a dozen of photos? I’m going to break that camera once I’m big enough to tear it out of his sticky fingers. I’ll smash that stupid camera into a million pieces, just like what I’m going to do to all those glitches and…

“Wow, she must really hate baths” Blueberry laughed.

“Oh no, she was calm but kept glaring at Ink” Dream told him, “I think she’s going to be a papa’s little girl.”

Oh no, don’t you dare think that. I’m not going to be papa’s little girl. I’m going to break every bone in his body the second I get a chance.

“Really? She looks like a huge fan of the magnificent Uncle Blueberry already” Blueberry chuckled.

I looked at the plush blueberry in my hand and held it towards Blueberry. Dream chuckled as he agreed. Blueberry soon place his hand under the plush so I could give it to him without appearing like Blueberry was attempting to take it.

“Aw, thank you Easter” Blueberry hummed.

“Ah, Dream” Cross said as he came into the room, “A word… in private?”

Dream got up, “Of course, I need to put the healing cream back anyway. Blueberry, can you watch your little niece while I’m away?”

Blueberry nodded, “Yeah though I don’t know how…”

“I’m sure it’ll be easy to figure it out” Dream commented, “Now be a good girl for your uncle, Easter.”

With that Dream left with Cross as they spoke in hushed voices. Blueberry frowns as he pulled out his phone again. He started texting for a moment before sighing deeply.

“Easter, can Uncle Blueberry steal a quick photo?” Blueberry spoke quietly, “It seems like my friends want to see if you’re doing okay.”

Wait, was Nightmare worried about Dream’s kid? Yeah, I’ll take a photo for that reason. I wonder if Blueberry will tell me who’s he’s taking photos for once I’m a bit older. Something to keep a secret from the rest of the base of course.

“That’s a pretty smile,” Blueberry said as he took a photo, “They’ll love it. Though did you really have to stick all three tongues out? Assuming you don’t have more hiding in there of course.”

I thought for a moment and decided I only had three tongues. I wonder if the rest of them will come in when I get older with a bigger mouth. This mouth was tiny, so three tongues took up a lot of space.

Hearing Dream’s voice as he came back, I suck up my tongues. He doesn’t need to see them. Only Error had the multi-tongues… right?

“Looks like she’s in a happy mood” Dream replied, “I knew you could do it Blueberry.”

“Okay, I’m leaving before you start giving me gold stars” Blueberry chuckled, “It seems like your mind is stuck in parenthood mode.”

“Maybe I am Blue, maybe I am” Dream giggled.

“You’re leaving already?” Cross asked as he came up behind Dream, “I was hoping for a taco, but it seems like even you are too busy to cook.”

“Go get your own tacos” Blueberry sighed, “I’m not your personal chief.”

Yep, Blueberry was bitter. He might blame Cross for my… Error’s disappearance. Wait, Cross had an overwrite ability… he didn’t… overwrite key aspects of my soul… did he? Just enough to mess with the reincarnation ability.

“Easter, do you want Cross to hold you?” Dream asked.

No, I refuse to let this mutt hold me. Don’t you dare let him even touch me. I’ll cry, you know I’ll do it. I’ll even be loud about it.

Dream seems to already have a counter for my upcoming fit as he pulled out the brush that Alter had used to calm me down. They called it a “sensory brush” a few times, but I still think it’s a weird brush.

A few minutes later, Cross was holding me. Dream was brushing my arm so I wouldn’t cry. Why did it have to be so calming to me?

“Wow, that really calm her down” Cross spoke up, “I was worried when she started kicking.”

“You should see what it’s like when Ink tries to hold her” Dream hummed, “She really puts up a fight.”

“Maybe she doesn’t like how empty Ink is?” Cross asked, “I know that you know about why Ink has his vials, but Easter might be spooked out by the idea.”

“All the more reason to have her get used to Ink holding her from time to time” Dream smiled, “He is her father so it’s important that they get along.”

“Or… maybe I could get along with her instead?” Cross offered.

Dream slowly frown but didn’t say anything.

Chapter Text

Dreaming of chocolate, I wonder what sort of sweets I’ll get spoiled with. Ink will surely give me all the chocolate I want. The only thing I had to do was pretend to be a good girl and I’ll get so many chocolate-gold bars.

Underfell chocolate was the best though. I wonder if Fell will give me some with fake promises about talking to Ink to give him expensive stuff… which was mostly stuff I stole from my previous life. I wonder if I could steal some of his secret stashes that not even his brother knows about.

I felt something cold landed on my face as I suddenly woke up. Quickly prying it off and looking around, nobody was nearby. Confused, I look to the object that had woken me up. It was nonother than an underfell chocolate bar still in the wrapper. But… how did this get here?

Tearing open the wrapper, I wonder if it was actual underfell chocolate. It certainly has the same smell of chocolate heaven. My stomach growled as if begging me to stop asking questions and just eat it.

“Easter, what’s that sound?” I heard from outside my door.

Attempting to hide the chocolate in my crib, Dream came into my room. He turned on the lights and came over to my crib. He looked tired like something had also woken him up in the middle of the night.

“Are you hungry?” Dream asked as he picked me up, “You can always cry for me if that’s the case.”

Oh yeah, Dream comes into my room a lot to see if I’m awake or hungry. Since I don’t really cry, Dream had made an alarm system to make sure I don’t starve overnight. Every single time I was awake, he always says that I’m allowed to cry for him.

“I can tell you wore slobbering in your sleep” Dream cooed, “Did you dream about eating something yummy?”

If I say yes, can I have chocolate?

“How about we get you some baby food” Dream hummed, “Does that sound good? Are you ready to move onto baby food?”

I want to move on to the chocolate.

“Wait… what’s this?” Dream said as he looked at my crib.

He pulled out the chocolate bar and gave me a serious look. Reaching for the chocolate bar, I didn’t want Dream to take it away. For a while, Dream just stared at the chocolate bar as if wondering where it came from.

“Easter, you’re far too young for sweets, let alone solids” Dream sighed as he pulls the chocolate away from my reach.

Sniffling, I really wanted the chocolate.

“Who gave you this anyway?” Dream asked, “Or is your Ink side already showing?”

“What about me?” Ink said as he pops his head in.

“Did you give Easter this chocolate bar? It seemed to pop out of nowhere” Dream told him.

Ink blinked before sounding excited, “Is her creation magic coming in already?”

No, I was dreaming about chocolate, and one happens to land on my head. I don’t have creation magic. I would refuse to use it even if I did.

“I think so… but don’t you need paint to make stuff?” Dream asked.

Ink thought before saying, “What if your dream magic blended with my creative skill? In other words, Easter was dreaming about chocolate, and it pops into existence.”

Therefore, it’s my chocolate so I get to eat it. You can’t say I’m too young, Dream. I’m getting that chocolate!

Dream sighed, “Guess I’ll need to check your room for mysterious appearing objects more often.”

“Let me see it,” Ink said as he looked at the bar, “I should take a photo of baby’s first magic.”

“Yeah, as long as Easter doesn’t eat it in her sleep and get sick” Dream told him, “In the meantime, I’ll get her some baby food and see if she’ll eat it.”

“Remember to take a video” Ink told him as he left with the chocolate.

“Wa… Aaah” I started to cry.

“Sorry, Easter, I’m sure the baby food will taste better for you anyway” Dream bounced me in his arms as he went to the kitchen.

Seeing that crying wasn’t going to let Dream eat the chocolate, I only folded my arms and pouted. For a guardian of positivity, he sure seems negative about me having a treat. Guess I’ll have to dream up another chocolate bar and hide it where his aura can’t reach it.

Dream places me down in the highchair and made sure that I was buckled in. Grabbing a jar and a strange stick with plastic at the end of it, Dream was determined about getting me to eat something new. Staring at the jar, I wasn’t sure if it was safe. For all I know, Ink or Blueberry put something in that jar.

A weird sound came from Dream as he scoops the meshy food. He playfully moved the food in the air as if expecting something from me. Confused, I tilted my head and look to Dream.

“Oh right…” Dream blushed a bit, “Here comes the airplane.”

Air… plane? Do you mean those metal birds that humans have? I remember taking a few of them down with my strings. You want the food to crash and burn the same way? I don’t have magic though.

Dream frown as I didn’t respond the way he was excepting. I blinked for a moment as Dream stared at the jar. A few seconds later, Dream went to eat the meshy food himself. Guess it wasn’t toxic if Dream was eating it. So… I should eat it too.

Opening my mouth, Dream perked up and started to make strange noises again. This time, the food ended up in my mouth as I chewed a little on the stick. Dream pulled it out slowly as if to make sure I got all the food in my mouth.

“Is it good?” Dream asked me.

It wasn’t chocolate, but if this was something Dream insisted that I eat, I’ll do it. Swallowing, I nodded before opening my mouth again. Dream made a sigh of relief before offering another “airplane” to end up in my mouth. This time, I chewed off a part of the stick before Dream pulled it out.

Dream’s face went pale and quickly reached to open my mouth. Confused, I tried to pull back as Dream’s fingers entered. Swallowing, I notice something stuck in my throat as Dream started to make panic sounds.

A pair of hands pushed below my ribcage as Dream rambled to spit it out. A few moments later, a slobber cover piece came out of my mouth. Dream quickly took it before I could look and throw the stick and broken part into a trash can.

“Easter, do not, I repeat, don’t scare me like that again” Dream panted, “Spoons are not for eating, okay? No eating or swallowing of spoons.”

But you’re the one that put it in my mouth. If it goes in the mouth, it’s meant to be swallowed. Even Horror eats anything that attempts to get into his mouth. So why in the multiverse are spoons the outlier?

Just then, Cross rushed into the room, “I heard panicking, is everything okay?”

“Y-yeah” Dream raised a hand to his soul, “Easter almost choked on a spoon she managed to chew off. I managed to get it out in time.”

“She what?!” Cross ran over to me, “How did she manage to do that with such soft teeth?”

“I don’t know, she just did” Dream replied, “Also, I thought you wore busy today Cross.”

“Oh… my roommate had some AU-related business to attend to” Cross stated, “So I came here to see how things were going.”

Cross opened my mouth and stared inside. Raising my hand, I slapped Cross’s head to get him away from me. Cross didn’t budge until I hit his eye socket. He finally let go and pulled back in a bit of pain as Dream looked like he was ready to lecture me.

“Easter, what did we say about hitting people?” Dream reprimanded me before turning to Cross, “Cross, are you okay?”

“Yeah, I was just caught a bit off guard” Cross told him.

Oh, you’re caught off guard. You’re the one that decided to open my mouth without permission. I’m the one that should be asked if I’m okay.

“Also, did you notice that Easter has three tongues?” Cross asked Dream, “Talk about unique.”

“Three? Easter, can I see your mouth?” Dream asked.

Without a word, Dream then opened my mouth. Whining, I started to hit Dream to get him away. Dream counted under his breath before letting me go. Having enough of being toyed with, I started to cry.

“Yep, that was three alright” Dream hummed.

“Guys, I know I’m a morning person, but what are you two doing up at this hour?” Blueberry yawned as he came in.

“Guess how many tongues Easter has” Dream stated.

“Three, she was showing them to me the other day” Blueberry rubbed his socket, “Why?”

“Ah okay… now Easter, I know you’re having a rough morning, but let’s get some more food into you” Dream hummed.

No, I want chocolate!

“Easter, who wants some… apple?” Blueberry said as he looks at the jar, “Ink bought this didn’t he?”

“I just thought it would be easier to get her onto real food” Dream nervously told him.

Blueberry shrugged before saying, “Who wants a chocolate drizzle apple strudel?”

I do, give it to me. Blueberry smirked as he gave me the spoon full of baby food. Hold on, there is no chocolate in this… you tick me! You sly fox, Blueberry.

“See, isn’t this better than making a fuss” Blueberry said as he got another spoon full.

Fine, I’ll play along, but don’t expect me to keep falling for your tricks Blueberry. Fool me too many times and I’ll tell Dream who you really work for. That’s right, don’t take me lightly Blueberry.

“Pfft” Dream laughed to himself, “I knew you’ll be the perfect favorite uncle for her.”

“Mwahaha” Blueberry laughed, “That’s what the magnificent Blueberry is all about.”

Chapter Text

Waking up from a relaxing dream about stargazing, I touch my head while stretching. Instead of feeling a smooth skull, I felt fluff… very fluffy stuff. I tried to pull it, but my skull ended up being drag along with a bit of pain. Confused, I wonder if I should get Dream. For all, I know some sort of baby mushroom decided to grow on my head.

“Idiot, getting scared over a bit of fuzz” one of the voices decided to speak up.

Another one giggled, “I bet that fuzz is worth more than the state of the multiverse to that little…”

Crying loudly, I didn’t want to deal with whatever was on my head for long. Dream burst into the room quickly as if somebody were attacking me. Seeing that nobody was here, and I was just crying, he calmed down quickly.

“What’s the matter?” Dream asked as he looked at me softly.

That’s when he touches the fluffy stuff on my skull. He looked puzzled before smiling. Don’t smile, this isn’t normal. Take it off my head.

“Oh, my stars” Dream started as he sounded more starstruck than concern, “Is that… strands of positivity coming out of your head?”

Strands of positivity? I don’t know what you’re on about, but just get it off my head. I don’t like it. It’s weird and it’s bugging me.

“Guess your little soul can contain so much positivity and so it stored it as magic hair” Dream cooed happily as he lifted me into his arms, “I’m glad that you’re happy here.”

Don’t assume that I’m happy. I was just dreaming about Outertale, it’s not like I was thinking happy thoughts. So just remove it already, it doesn’t belong on my head.

“I’m sure growing some hair made you pretty hungry,” Dream said as he changed topics, “Let’s get something delicious to eat before we show your father your new hair.”

Dream started to walk to the kitchen as he playfully blew onto my skull. A strange sensation of the fluff moving around made me shiver. Lightly tugging at the fluff, I really wanted to get it off.

“No, ghost hair isn’t for pulling” Dream commented as he gently opens my tiny fist of fluff and pulled it away, “wait… is your hair causing discomfort?”

Physically… no… I guess not.

“I wonder if it’s like teething. No, I would have read about it…” Dream speculated before saying, “I’m sure you’ll get adjusted after some food distractions.”

After some baby food, I scratch my skull trying to get the fluff off. Dream frowns before suggesting a bubble bath. Hoping the bubbles will remove the fluff, I agree with Dream’s idea.

Feeling the warm water being poured over my skull, I shook my bones to get the water droplets off. Dream giggled and used a used his hand to shell himself from the spray of water. Moments later, Dream gives me a skull massage with his phalanges. A lot like the “sensory brush,” it felt relaxing and calming.

“So that’s what you really needed” Dream hummed, “Just a little scrubbing.”

Subconsciously a soft thrill sound came from my mouth. Blushing I cover my teeth with my hands as I blinked a few times. Was… was that how my voice really sounds? I didn’t really hear myself when I cry but… it wasn’t glitchy. It was higher pitched compared to what I was used to.

“Aren’t you being a little… Tsundere” Dream teased, “It’s okay to say that you like this.”

After rinsing and drying, Dream picked out the frilliest outfit in the closet. Frowning, I started to scratch myself from the irritating fabric on my bones. Ignoring my discomfort, Dream covered my hands in mittens so I wouldn’t “hurt myself”.

“Now, time to see father,” Dream said as he picked me up.

Dream took me out of the room and to where all the Sans wore currently gathered. Feeling uneasy already, I shifted my face into Dream’s cape flap. I don’t want to see them flocking around me.

“Dream, it’s so nice to see you up and about” a Sans spoke, “We wore wondering how you wore doing after you collapsed last time.”

“I’m doing much better now, thank you” Dream spoke calmly, “Easter, can you say hi?”

I snorted as I held the cape over my face more.

“Is somebody playing peek-a-boo?” a Sans teased.

“She’s just being shy” Dream replied, “I think she’s feeling a bit nervous about her hair growing in.”

“I can see, it’s adorable” a Sans cooed.

A few more Sans trying to get me to peak out with this strange game of peak-a-boo as Dream waved around them casually. Dream finally made his way through the crowded Sanses. Finally peeking out, the Sans seems to gush over me as they managed to sneak a peek of me.

“Ink, how’s work?” Dream asked as he spotted him.

“It’s fine…” Ink sighed before looking at me, “Ah, did you come here to see how your old man is doing?”

“Easter’s hair is growing in” Dream cooed.

“It’s such a wonderful shade of golden blonde” Ink hummed, “Looks like somebody been pretty up for a photoshoot. Are you ready for the camera?”

Sticking out one tongue, I really didn’t want photos.

“So cute” Ink giggled, “the best shade of violet.”

A flash of light later, I knew he took a photo of me already. Can’t I just go back to bed already? I don’t want to play “smile for the camera” with Ink.

“Now be a good girl for papa” Dream told me as he gave me to Ink, “Mama just needs a nap, and Alter should be coming over later today, okay?”

Fine, only because I don’t like seeing you collapse on me. Don’t make this a habit though. I want to spend as little time with Ink as possible.

Ink held me in one arm as he used the other to set up a baby blanket. Placing me down on it, he started to take photos non-stop. I frown at this action until Ink made a chocolate bar. Reaching for it, I heard the camera shutter more. Once I finally got the chocolate, it surprised me. It was a toy, a stupid plush toy. No, I want the real thing!

“Ow, don’t throw it at me” Ink laughed as he picked up the fake chocolate.

Oh, I will throw it at you. Don’t trick me with chocolate. Blueberry can get away with it, but you can’t. Stupid squid, I’ll make sure you pay me a million chocolates before I stab you in the throat. You heard me, the throat!

“Are you sure she isn’t from UnderFell” Red jokes, “It looks like she’s ready to kill ya at moment’s notice.”

Ink shrugged, “She always looks at me like that. I think it just means we’ll be visiting Medic for glasses at some point.”

No, my vision is simply fine. In fact, my vision is a million times better compared to when I was Error. Don’t assume my glares are me squinting.

Red thought for a moment before saying, “Oh no, that’s a look that could kill.”

“Because she’s so adorable” Ink giggled.

Red scoff, “Whatever, don’t blame me if you wake up with a blade to your neck.”

“Speaking of blades… wait… what was it about blades again?” Ink tapped his cheek in thought now.

Ink started to mutter and check over his scarf. Red sighed and watch him fidget which means nobody was watching me. Seeing this a moment to get away from Ink, I started to crawl away. I’m not sticking around for whatever trick Ink has in store for me.

“Ah, Easter, what are you doing out here?” Color asked as he picked me up.

Ug, I didn’t get extremely far. Ink’s going to track me down the second he remembers what he was doing. Looking to Color, I wonder if he was going to find Ink or show me off.

“Alter normally passes through the main entrance in… ten minutes,” Color told me, “Did you want to wait by the doors so you could say hi?”

I nodded since that was easy out of being away from Ink.

“Alright, let’s go wait for Alter” Color hummed.

Ink suddenly rushed up painting. Crap, I almost escaped him. Red, did you remind the squid that he was watching me?

“Easter, there… there you are” Ink panted, “I turn my head away for one second and you vanished.”

“Easter said she wanted to wait for Alter by the main entrance,” Color told him, “Guess she didn’t tell you where she was crawling off to. Silly girl.”

“Oh, Color that reminds me um… what was it” Ink looked to his scarf before saying, “Ah, I wanted to show Outer a night feature that I set up in Easter’s room.”

“Outer’s having some private time with…” Color cough, “I mean he’s busy today.”

Ink tilted his head, “Private time? Doesn’t Outer like you?”

“Yes but… there somebody else in our romance that we both like” Color nervously spoke, “The third guy doesn’t want to go public yet so try to forget I said anything.”

Now that I think about it, didn’t Color try flirting with Killer one time? I mean, Killer did leave that battle while all flustered. Color hasn’t been seen at any of the fights since then. Wait, Killer you didn’t befriend Color of all skeletons… did you?!

“Ah, I see… another time then” Ink nodded.

Chapter Text

“And that’s how the sweet little monster got everything they could dream of for their birthday” Alter said as he closed the book, “Now can you tell me what the moral of the story is?”

I shook my head.

“You see when your nice to people, people are nice in return” Alter replied, “People went out of their way to make the little monster happy because the monster made them happy. Does that make sense?”

I didn’t respond as I gave him the same stare.

“You’ll understand in a few years than” Alter ruffled my hair, “Just try being a little nice with your father.”

Frowning, I folded my arms.

“Look, I have to go” Alter said as he handed me the book, “Can you look at the pictures and think about how the little monster got so many nice gifts?”

Nodding, I opened the book.

“That’s a good girl,” Alter told me, “See you tomorrow.”

Waving goodbye, Alter left. Sitting alone in my room now, I felt uneasy. Looking at the book, I wasn’t in the mood for thinking about the little monster.

“Those other monsters were foolish” a voice in my head giggled.

Another voice spoke, “the fake kindness of the little monster turned everybody into fools.”

“Everyone is wrapped around the little monster’s finger” a third voice chuckled.

“Hey, hey, I have an idea” the first voice spoke, “I wonder how foolish we can turn that stupid Ink with a simple drawing.”

“Are you stupid? There is no way this idiot will draw anything that squid would be proud over” the second voice cackle.

The third voice hummed, “Still, if Ink thinks she’s a normal kid… maybe he’ll stop pushing those stupid art supplies into her hands.”

True, lately Ink kept on pushing waxy sticks into my hands and sits me down in front of a piece of paper. Maybe if I gave into Ink’s demands… would he leave me alone? Ug, I need to plot things down.

Later, Ink came into my room, “Easter, guess what time it is?”

Closing the book quickly, I turn to hide it under my pillow. However, Ink grabs the book in time and opened it. I excepted a scolding for plotting but his eye lights glowed brightly.

“Your first loved book” Ink gasp with joy, “Did Alter tell you an amazing story and you wanted to add to it, didn’t you?”

I… wasn’t in trouble? Ink… Ink was happy that I was plotting in a book? I guess with these tiny unfamiliar hands it did all come out as scribbles. S-so… Ink was proud of me?

“Let’s celebrate with some chocolate milk,” Ink told me as he picked me up, “Don’t tell your mama or he’ll take it away saying you're too young for sweets.”

Chocolate? I earn chocolate for plotting. No, he thinks I was loving the book. So… if I love more books like that, I’ll get more chocolate?

“Here we go, one chocolate milk in a sippy cup,” Ink said as we had already made it to the kitchen and place me in the highchair.

Taking the plastic cup, I started to drink it as fast as possible. Oh, that sweet flavor, I miss this so much. I don’t care if this is poisoned, I can die happy.

“Slow-down” Ink laughed as he gently lowered one end of the bottle.

Never, I’m going to chug this chocolate like a mob with pitchforks are coming for me.

“Ink, have you seen where…” Dream said as he came into the room, “Ink! What did I say about sweets?!”

Ink laughed, “Oh no, we’re caught.”

I finished the last of the chocolate milk quickly before Dream could take it from me. Ink simply laughed as Dream sighed. Licking my teeth, I already wanted more.

“Great, she’s hooked” Dream sighed, “How do you expect her to eat her normal food if she thinks that we’ll give her sweets?”

“Well, it’s better than having her attempting to eat a chocolate bar in the middle of the night” Ink countered, “Because creation magic and all that.”

“True… but I want her to eat her jar of baby food without issue tonight,” Dream told him as he went to clean the cup, “if she starts to complain about eating normal food, we’re removing sweets completely. Do you understand, Ink?”

“Fine, mealtimes come first” Ink raised his right hand as if to swear by this.

At lunch, Cross had joined us for the meal. Dream made sure I ate normally which only made me cry internally for chocolate. I can’t complain because I can’t risk chocolate going bye-bye.

“Easter, do you want to play with Cross?” Cross asked me.

He does this. Asks me simple questions on what we should do. Normally, I get angry and shake my head… but Cross normally carries chocolate on him. Maybe if I’m good… he’ll give it to me?

“Really?” Cross sounded surprised, “Let’s see what toys you have.”

I allowed Cross to pick me up as we headed back to where Ink kept most of the toys. Cross set me down as he pulled a poorly made plush from a box. It was a teddy bear as he started to have it bounce around.

“Hi, I’m Teddy” Cross said in a more playful tone, “but most skeletons call me “papa bear”.”

Cross made up a story through the bear as we… played? Is this how playing works? How much longer do I need to be good before I get the chocolate?

“Cross, a word?” Dream asked of him.

“Who’s Cross, I’m Teddy” Cross jokily told him.

Dream laughed slightly, “Cross, come on.”

Cross gave me the doll, “Sorry angel, looks like playtime is over.”

No, I want my chocolate. I know you have chocolate. I was a good girl, right? Good girls get chocolates.

“Papa” accidentally slipped out of my mouth.

I meant to say “wait” or “chocolate” but somehow “papa” as in “papa bear” came from me. Ah, such a stupid mix-up for a first word out of my mouth. Dream is surely going to lettuce me, and I won’t get any chocolates.

“No Easter, Cross isn’t…” Dream started but was cut off.

“Papa” I decided to go with it.

Earlier Dream said if I didn’t eat my normal foods, he’ll take away my chocolate. If Dream was going to threaten my chocolate supply, I’ll say something that will clearly bug him. In this case, calling Cross “papa” was enough to cause Dream to twitch.

“You think I’m papa?” Cross asked me with encouragement.

“Papa” I said again and reached for him.

Cross lifted me up, “Aren’t you adorable, but I really need to go.”

He put me on the couch before leaving the room with Dream. I could hear Dream giving Cross lettuce about how he should behave around me and how “the damage was already done”. Good, that is what happens if you attempt to take away my chocolates. Wait… Cross still hasn’t given me any chocolates.

“Papa!” I shouted as I started to get off the couch.

“Is somebody saying their first word?” Ink said as he came in with a camera.

Blinking a few times, guess chocolate milk from Ink again could work. If Cross was too busy for me now, Ink was my next bet. Maybe even a clever way to force Ink to stay out of the creating AU business for a while.

“Dada” I said as I looked at the camera.

“Aw, so cute” Ink cooed, “Who’s dada?”

I crawled up to Ink, “Dada.”

“Oh, look who’s coming into the room now,” Ink said as he gestured to Dream, “Who’s that?”

“Mama” I answered cutely.

“Dream, she called me dada for her first word” Ink giggled, “Isn’t that adorable?”

Dream nervously shrugged, “Y-yeah adorable.”

“Can you say dada again?” Ink asked me.

“Dada” I patted Ink’s arm.

“Now where’s mama?”

I pointed to Dream, “mama.”

Dream swallowed, “Easter, can you say your own name?”

I thought for a moment before saying, “E.”

“Yes, it starts with an ‘E’” Dream replied, “Can you say your alphabet?”

I frown as I didn’t like this game as much anymore.

“I can help you out” Ink started, “A…”

Guess I’ll play along… I better get some chocolate when we’re done.

“Wait… what comes after A?” Ink gave Dream a puzzled look.

Chapter Text

A few weeks later, Ink came to me with a silly smile. Looks like he wanted to try something new with me today. I blink in wonder as he didn’t have any art supplies with him this time.

“Easter, want to practice walking?” Ink asked me as he held out his hands.

“Dada” I reached up and held his.

I needed to get used to this new body. Crawling around is okay but I need to run if anybody figures out who I am. Besides, Ink always ends his actives with chocolate milk.

“That’s right,” Ink hummed, “One foot and then the other.”

The next thing I knew it, Ink had taken me to where all the Sans hang out. They wore all looking and whispering about me already. A few loudly commented how cute I was.

Spooked by the sudden gathering of Sanses, I tightly gripped Ink’s hands. Ink didn’t seem to notice my unease as he started to talk with the Sanses. Multiple skeletons that could hurt or kill me at a moment’s notice wore focused on either Ink’s words or myself. I was about to start crying from fear until I notice a blue scarf in the crowd.

“Uncle” I called out weakly.

Blueberry had to shuffle his way through the crowd to get to Ink. I notice a frown on his face as I wondered what had happened in the multiverse. Blueberry wasn’t normally this serious as he asked Ink to head to one of the meeting rooms.

“Yeah, alright” Ink nodded, “Easter, do you want to keep walking?”

I nodded as I really wanted to know what was going on. Ink guided my walk to a meeting room as Blueberry followed. The blue guard didn’t seem happy that I was attending but wasn’t about to argue with Ink over it. As we made it to a small meeting room, I notice that nobody else was there.

“Ink… remember that kidnapper slash killer?” Blueberry asked Ink without beating around the bush.

Ink shook his head, so Blueberry gave Ink a photo as a reminder. Being short and now sitting on the floor, I couldn’t see the image still. I recalled the conversation that Dream had pass out from moments later due to the negativity in the air. Whatever happened, Blueberry must have wanted to keep this concealed for Dream’s sake… old…

“They’ve up their game,” Blueberry told him, “An entire AU is left with only fragments of code that slowly degrading into nothing.”

Hold on, another destroyer? Talk about a novice job. Fragment code that was left intact can have a devastating effect on other AUs. It was like letting an asteroid of lethal sizing fall onto an inhabited planet in Outer's terms.

“Are you sure it wasn’t Error?” was Ink's first question.

Blueberry shook his head, “This work is too much like the killer to be him. Besides, even the gang has no clue on where Error is at.”

“I see… do you think I can repair those AUs?” Ink asked.

Blueberry lowered his head and shook it, “I don’t think the damage can be undone… not without consequences.”

Glitched fragmented code inside a repaired AU usually ended badly. From the glitched text, events, and even character data could suffer greatly. In some events, they can turn into virus-level threats for other nearby AUs. Normally it was my job to remove any AU that could harm the rest of the multiverse… after all one bad apple spoils the bunch. I’m not sure if I even had access to my old skills let alone if I had the magic to use them in case a virus-level threat shows up. For all, I know this killer could be a virus-level threat that managed to form in recent times.

“I see… does Dream know?” Ink asked.

Blueberry nodded, “He’s looking for survivors with Cross.”

“Was there any?” Ink asked.

I certainly hope not. Their code would be damaged beyond what Cross could “correct” with his overwrite ability. If there was anybody left, they would either be insane or in extreme pain.

“No, I plan on joining them in case… the killer returns to the scene of the crime, and they need backup,” Blueberry told Ink.

Ink nodded, “In that case, I’ll take Easter to the omega timeline and ask Core about shelter plans. It’s about time she got to spend some time with other monsters besides skeletons.”

“What about Alter?” Blueberry asked.

“He’s um…” Ink looked over his scarf before pulling out a phone as if to look up a message, “Ah, Dream said Alter was off today and the only people on the babysitting list are yourself and Cross.”

“Right… well I better get going” Blueberry sounded uneasy but left quickly.

I looked to Ink as he ruffled my hair as he spoke, “We’re going outside to visit some friends. I hope you don’t mind our walking practice running short.”

He pulled out broomie to make a stroller before setting me inside. He stared for a moment before making a bonnet and place it over my skull. It limited my vision as if Ink did catch on to how I was overwhelmed by the Sanses earlier and thought that if I didn’t see another monster they didn’t exist. Ink then made a pair of plastic shoes for my feet before taking us out of the room.

Inside the omega timeline, things weren’t the same here compared to the Sanses from earlier. Monsters wore gathering up and whispering to each other instead of greeting Ink or myself directly. It almost had a bitter-smelling air as the monsters glared towards me. Did… did they have something against Ink or Dream?

“Frisk, how’s have things been going?” Ink asked.

A monochrome child looked to Ink with a poker face, “It’s all right. A lot of the residence have been growing restless.”

Ink and Core!Frisk soon started to talk about “if” more monsters wore added to the omega timeline. Soon it turns into a discussion about the long term for this space. Things such as residential and educational buildings came up along with farms and libraries.

While some monsters wore more interested in Ink’s conversation, many more wore still whispering while looking at me. I heard them say “isn’t that Cross’s kid that Dream claims to be Ink’s?” as things clicked inside my head. Dream had told Cross that monsters would start talking and here they wore… talking as if I was a Cross’s child.

A lot of monsters here wore hurt by me as Error and the gang by extension. Even if Cross had reformed into Dream’s bodyguard, monsters in the omega timeline don’t seem to whisper anything good about Cross. Ranging from being a spy for the gang still to Cross favoring the winning side, the monsters had a lot of rumors being spread among themselves.

Ending this rumor before they attempted to hurt me due to thinking that I was Cross’s child was best. So… to end the rumor… I needed to prove I was Ink’s child through magic. I frown as I really didn’t want to attempt to use my creative skill. I know I’ve been ignoring it through chocolate but… at some point I can’t just drown this truth out with chocolate.

Thinking about a smaller version of Broomie, I hoped it’ll be enough to prove to them that I was the daughter of creation instead of a reformed villain. Closing my eyes and attempting to enter a daydream, I didn’t want to risk using Ink’s altered skill through a real dream. I mean, Dream had some magic power over daydreams… or so I’ve heard.

Moments later something tickles my nose as I sneezed. A wooden stick landed on my lap as I noticed it was indeed a paintbrush. Rubbing my nose socket, I wonder if the fluffy end of the mini broomie had tickled my nose.

I heard the monster’s tone change into a bit of confusion as they must have seen me use my magic. Picking up a mini broomie, I waved it in the air as I recall how Ink would do the same. I hated this but… I didn’t want to get hurt. Hearing the tone shift to a “she’s so cute,” I knew I’ve convinced some if not most of them that I was Ink’s kid.

“Easter, where did you get that?” Ink asked as he bent down to my level.

“Magic” I giggled.

Ink ruffled my hair, “did you use creation magic? I knew you wore a natural. You even made your dada’s broomie in child size. I’m stunned with amazement.”

“Boom-boom” I waved the fluffy end of the brush to tickle Ink’s nose hole.

Ink laughed, “Oh no, whatever shall I do. Easter’s mini broomie is much too strong for me.”

“It seems I should gather everyone about plans” Core interrupted, “That way we don’t run into issues when it’s time to start building.”

Ink nodded, “Like half an hour or a few days’ worth of gathering monsters?”

“Half an hour to gather everyone but it could take a long time before we get anywhere” Core paused before saying, “I’m sure you have better things to do than to stick around.”

“I’m sure Dream won’t mind my little creator in training seeing a lot more monsters” Ink lightly tapped my nose bridge, “Does little Easter want to see more of her dada’s creations?”

Why does it sound like Ink is trying to take me to an art gallery? These aren’t works of art, their living monsters… oh, and some humans… That’s beside the point, these monsters aren’t the happy-go-lucky ones that are part of the “inner circle” that sits around the foyer back home.

“No” I finally told him.

“Alright, we’ll go home and pull out the crayons for some creative time” Ink smiled with a spiral sun and hexagon-shaped eye lights made from bright colors, “Would that be, okay?”

Crayons? Oh, you mean the waxy sticks. It’s better than sticking around here.

“Ca… callow?” I mispronounced.

“That’s right, color” Ink pecks his teeth against my cheekbone, “Does Easter have a favorite color?”

I paused for a moment before saying, “La… law-end-dew?”

“Lavender? Isn’t that the color I picked out for you?” Ink looked over his scarf, “guess I did an excellent job at finding your perfect color.”

“I’ll have blueprints and memos about what we’ll discuss for you tomorrow,” Core told Ink.

“Thanks, Core” Ink smiled before asking me, “Can you say bye to Core?”

“Bye-bye” I waved.

Chapter Text

“Easter, my daffodil” Dream said as he sat me down, “daddy and I have a meeting. Can you sit here with Cross and color quietly?”

I was now sitting at a small children’s table next to a huge meeting table. This meant I get juicy info about what’s going on in the multiverse right now. I’ll find out more about that sloppy new destroyer that’s been going around. Lucky that Alter isn’t here today to keep me away from this.

“Mouse” I smiled.

“That’s right, quiet as a mouse” Dream kissed my forehead before walking off to where Blueberry and Ink wore.

“So, what should the small princess draw first?” Cross asked me.

I frown as I didn’t enjoy the nickname. Cross has been testing me with new nicknames every day. Yesterday was a “young goddess” which results in a hairbrush being thrown his way. Lucky for him that I can’t throw crayons without risking losing some chocolate or being removed from the room.

“How about… a family picture?” Cross suggested as if ignoring my frown, “I’m sure Dream… mom… would love that.”

How about I draw an animal instead. Alter was teaching me animals and noises the other day; I’ll just pick one of those. Course I don’t have the dexterity in this body yet to effectively draw anything aside from scribbles.

“Looks like we’re having another extra guest attending today’s meeting,” Abyss said as he looked to me, “Are you taking notes for your parents?”

“Abyss, I didn’t think you like coming here” Cross brought up, “Since everybody loves to point out how short you are.”

Abyss growled slightly, “I’m not short.”

“Shorty” I giggled.

Abyss folded his arms, “It’s not nice to call somebody taller than you short.”

“Oh, this must be your first-time meeting Easter” Cross brought up, “Easter can you say hi to Abyss.”

“Hi Shorty,” I said with the straightest face.

“No, it’s Abyss” he firmly told me.

“Shorty” I replied.

“Repeat after me, A-byss” he tapped his foot.

“Pega-byss” I pointed to how fluffy his scarves had gotten during the conversation.

“Was that… a pun?” Abyss blinked.

“Guess Easter thinks you’re a Pegasus now” Cross snicked.

Thinking of a Pegasus toy, I made one with a bit of thought. Multiple Sans seem to remark that I was being cute even if they didn’t come over to comment on it. It even caught Ink’s attention.

“Baby’s first pun!” Ink explains as he went to hug me, “and look, you made a Pegasus or should I say a pegabyss.”

“Ink, Abyss, we’re starting the meeting soon” Blueberry interrupts them.

Ink nodded, “Remember to say that pun later, you darling little angel.”

Everybody took their seats to start the meeting as I turn back to the sea of colorful scribbles on my paper. Picking up the white crayon, I stared at the mess on the paper. Erase, it needs to be erased. Rubbing the white all over the paper, only made the colors lighter instead of vanishing. I wanted to crumble up the paper but that’ll produce a lot of noise.

“So, about this new destroyer” Ink spoke up as everybody took their seats, “Do we have any ideas on who it could be?”

“Actually, I think I know” Abyss spoke up with a book on the table, “Recently a page was added to my book about a new alternative being called Fatal Error.”

Hold on, that book was all about all the alternate AUs. If it’s capable of updating… I need to rip those pages out and be extra careful around him. The fluffball could disclose information or anybody else that got their hands on the book.

Cross tapped on my hand to alert me back to the table. Guess he noticed I was paying attention and decided to distract me. Picking up the white crayon again, I pretend to draw this time.

“But does he have a motive?” Blueberry was brought up.

Abyss nervously touched his book before saying, “He’s… one of his goals is to bring back his brother, Papyrus.”

Red sighed, “That explains the bodies.”

“What if I just create him a Papyrus then?” Ink suggested.

“Ink, I don’t think a simple copy will satisfy him” Blueberry spoke up.

“Guess we’ll have to kill him as we did with Error than” Ink hummed.

I felt uneasy with how quickly Ink was ready to kill. Would he be this quick to kill if he knew that his own kid was the destroyer? Would Dream not argue or second guess Ink?

Soon a room of arguing skeletons about what to do next filled the room. The room must have been like this back when I was Error. Plans, ideas, all about killing…

Looking to Abyss, his book was on the table as he was talking with the others about plans. Cross wasn’t paying attention to me as he seemed more interested in the meeting himself. Getting up, I wondered if I could sneak Abyss’s book away. I needed to know if it had any info about my current state and if Abyss could know the truth about me.

Being small made it easy to get under the table without notice. Making my way to where Abyss sat, I felt surrounded by the angry Sanses that once hunted me down in my last life. Ignoring my own thoughts as much as possible, I reached up to where the book was. Lucky for me, nobody noticed that I slipped the book under the table with me.

Opening the book, I looked for my pages… they should be here somewhere… Ah, the Error page. Seems normal… doesn’t say the cause of death but says that Error is dead on the page. Wait, a small note to look at page number… that was… my page. Great, this book had a connection between Error and Easter even if it doesn’t say so on Error’s page.

“Easter, the reincarnated soul of Error” was one of the first few lines on the page.

Frowning, I went to tear out the page. I’ll have to see if Abyss saw this page later. The sounds of arguing were enough to cover up the sounds of tearing. Once I had the page free, I folded it and stuff it into my dress pocket to deal with later.

Returning the book, I hope it wouldn’t recover the page with some strange magic for my sake. However, I was caught returning the book as Abyss was staring at me now. He didn’t say anything, but he did grab the book from my hands gently. Did… did he plan this?

Heading back to my chair, I wonder if he wasn’t going to say anything. Cross and the others didn’t seem to notice my activity as I sat down. Pretending to be coloring, I hoped that Abyss wouldn’t notice what I did.

Wait, where did that Pegasus stuff animal go? I remember casually putting it on the table… did somebody take it? Oh well, it’s not like I wanted to keep the toy for any reason.

“Why can’t we just use the same plan we used to finally kill Error?” one of the skeletons suggested.

Most of the other skeletons agree as I felt my soul sink. That plan didn’t work… something else happened… unless that part of the plan was also something Ink had planned for ahead of time. Still, echoes of “kill the destroyer” filled the room regardless of what really happened.

This time I couldn’t ignore my own feelings as I felt like I was in a den of hungry skeletons from Horrortale. Each one was ready to kill me the second the truth came out… or even before. Looking to Cross, he was still mostly focused on the meeting until he glanced at me. Soon a concerned look covers his face as he seems to be attempting to read my expression.

Cross got up from his seat and came over to rub my back. It felt like claws sharpening along my spine as I push the hand away. Blinking a few times, the guard looked like he was debating on his next move.

“How about we go get some chocolate milk?” Cross asked in a quiet voice.

Nodding, I wanted to be as far as way from the cheers of death. Getting up, the two of us walked outside the meeting room. I wasn’t sure if Dream or Ink noticed, but it felt like Abyss was watching me.

“Do you want me to carry you?” Cross asked.

Wanting to feel safe, I nodded and held my arms up. Sure, I wouldn’t trust Cross with my secrets but as long as he’s loyal to Dream, he’ll treat me like his own kin. So, if Dream still considers me as his kid, Cross will protect me at all costs.

“Up we go,” Cross said as he lifted me and held me close to his chest.

Leaning into the rib cage to listen to his arrhythmic soul beat, I slowly started to let the water in my sockets out. Cross walked down the hallway as I gripped onto his shirt to hide my weakness. Monsters can’t see me cry, they’ll attack me. Why am I even crying in the first place? I’m the destroyer, I shouldn’t cry over… cry over monsters talking about Error’s death like it was the best thing to happen.

“Cross, did something happen?” I heard Dream asked… he must have noticed us leaving the room.

“I’m not sure,” Cross told him, “One second she seemed okay the next she looked pale… even for a skeleton.”

I heard Dream walked up and placed a gloved hand on my head. I jumped slightly from the sudden touch as I turn my skull slightly to look at him. He looked worried as he slowly went to rub my back.

“Was it scary in there?” Dream asked me.

I nodded while using my hand to remove a loose tear.

“We wore going to get some chocolate milk” Cross explained.

“Ah, some chocolate milk…” Dream hummed, “I better let you two get going than.”

So, Dream was perfectly okay with leaving me with the guard to be the emotional caregiver. I was well cared for, and Dream could return to the meeting without paying close attention to me. Guess Dream was perfectly okay now if I started to call Cross a parent casually from now on.

“Papa” I whimpered and pillowed my face into his clothes.

“Yes, yes” Cross lightly bounced me, “We’re getting that chocolate milk now.”

Dream ignored it this time as he went back to the meeting room but stop as somebody came out. Was the meeting over? Or did somebody else decided to leave?

“Ah, Abyss” Dream stated, “I wanted to discuss something with you.”

Chapter Text

Finishing my fifth cup of chocolate milk, I raised the cup for more. Cross shook his head saying that five was plenty as he chugs down his tenth cup. No fairs, you have a bigger cup, and your drinking isn’t limited by a layer of plastic.

“What could Dream be talking about?” Cross muttered as he looked to the hallway.

With Abyss? I can’t think of anything Dream would want to talk to him about. I just hope that Abyss didn’t notice that I took out my page from his book.

“Ah, I’m sure I’m overthinking it” Cross hummed, “Is Easter feeling better now that her tum-tum is full of chocolate milk?”

I nodded, “Chocolate!”

“Heh, sounds like we’re going to fight over the chocolate stash once you’re a bit older” Cross chuckled to himself, “Guess I better start hiding my chocolate.”

What do you mean you won’t share your chocolate with me? I playfully stuck my tongue out and Cross laughed hard. Confused, I pulled my tongue back in and tilted my head.

“Sorry, it’s just… you’re just so cute,” Cross told me.

If I’m really that cute, then you’ll give me all your chocolate.

“Cross,” Blueberry announced himself as he came in, “Dream ask me to take some meeting notes down for you… though no progress was really made.”

“Uncle Taco!” I raised my hands.

“Hi to you too, little chocolate goblin” Blueberry smiled slightly.

Cross hummed, “Does that make me the chocolate goblin king?”

“No” Blueberry frown, “Anyways, where’s Dream?”

“I think he’s still talking to Abyss,” Cross told him.

Blueberry looked a bit pale as he glances away, “I should see where they went then…”

With that, Blueberry left the room. Cross looked a bit confused before relaxing his expression as if figuring it out. I blinked as I wonder why Blueberry felt a strong need to check on them. Did Blueberry figure out that the Book of AUs could point to Error’s status?

“Does Easter want a nap time story from the chocolate goblin king?” Cross asked me.

Don’t… just, don’t call yourself the goblin king…

“No. Papa” I huffed.

Cross snicked, “Alright, papa bear will read a nap time story.”

After taking me to bed, he told me a story before turning the lights off and the stars on. Now alone, I decided to pull out the piece of paper I tore from Abyss’s book. Opening it up and skipping the states box, I read everything on the page.

“Daughter to Dream and Ink but their soul's center is the former destroyer… pretending that their a normal child… is afraid of the truth coming out… while her magic appears like creation, it’s a dream fragment that’ll vanish over time due to being unstable in the physical reality.”

So that’s where that mini-broomie went after we visit the Omega timeline. I was wondering if Ink took it or misplace it. Guess attempting to eat any dream chocolate might not be a good idea if they vanish. I should be careful either way about when I use my magic anyway.

I also made that Pegasus back during the meeting. Guess it vanished sometime in-between when the meeting started and when I returned to my chair. Ink might have already figured out that my magic has a limit but decided that it was a normal baby thing. He could also have forgotten that these items existed in the first place, either way, I don’t think I should worry about him.

There was also the main issue of the page connecting my current form with the destroyer. Did Abyss see that page? If so, he’s with Dream right now… I should keep an eye on Dream for anything abnormal. Course, that’s assuming that Dream wants to take the passive route to the situation. Dream was always a fan of bringing bad guys to his side if Cross wasn’t evidenced enough. However, if Dream slips up… it could start a lot of trouble for me. I’ll need to be an extra good girl for the next week to remove any concerns Dream might have.

I was about to get up, but my body felt tired as I found trouble getting up. Having a long day already, I should really take that nap… it’s not like the paper is going anywhere while I’m sleeping anyway… Yeah, I’ll just hide the paper after I wake up. For now, I’ll just stuff it into my pillow in case Ink decides to redecorate while I sleep.

Walking down the hallway, I wonder when things suddenly turn cold and dark. I was looking for Ink or Dream to turn on the heater or something. However, their rooms wore empty as I made my way to the grand foyer where all the skeletons gather.

“This page proves that Error is alive,” Abyss said as I hid behind a pillar.

“I can’t believe he’s back” a skeleton whispered.

“Taking the form of the god’s child no less” another hissed.

A third one spoke up, “We should kill them before he grows up and finishes his job.”

Swallowing, I backed away from the foyer. I didn’t notice the table behind me as I bump into it. A vase of a sunflower topples off the ground as the soft petals turn to mushy paint across the ground. A skeleton hand peaked out of the remains of the flower as I gasp.

“Over there, let’s get the destroyer once and for all!” a skeleton shouted.

I was about to run off when a pair of hands came up from the gooey puddle where the sunflower had landed. They grabbed my legs and started to pull me into the puddle as I saw Ink’s face coming from the puddle. It was his scary face as he dragged me into the goop.

“Come on Error, let’s finish what we started” Ink chuckled.

I screamed as I shot out of bed. Holding my chest, I took deep breaths. My soul felt sick as I slowly told myself that it was all a nightmare. Holding my knees, I shiver from the aftershock as I tried to pace my soul beats.

“Error” a voice called out from under my bed.

An inky hand rose from under the bed and gripped onto the bedsheets. I stood up and back away from the edge of my bed as the hand took the sheets into its domain in a swift yet a slow movement. I saw a skull made from the same inky texture come up as I froze with fear. This was the same Ink I saw in my nightmare just now… but now I didn’t have the comfort of waking up.

“Why don’t you just stay dead?” the Ink beast cooed, “I’m quite tired of killing you.”

It reached toward my neck as I couldn’t bring myself to move. My bones refused to make a meaningful effort as they rattled loudly. Closing my sockets, I couldn’t bring myself to watch my second death.

“Easter!” a voice called out from the bedroom door.

Do I dare open my eyes? No… no… I don’t want to see the creature in front of me. When a pair of arms wrapped around me, I could only assume it was the death grip from the Inky beast as I squirmed. But… the hug felt warm, and not cold as I expected the gooey texture to feel. Opening my sockets, I saw Dream instead of the creature from my nightmares.

“M… Mama?” I mumbled out of my mouth slowly.

“Are you okay, my daffodil?” Dream asked as he stroked my hair.

I glance to where the beast had crawled from moments ago. There was no trace of it… just a golden arrow that casually laid on the ground. Over at my door was a discarded bow that told the story of what had happened.

I blinked a few times before asking, “Safe?”

“Yes, Easter is safe” Dream told me.

Tears slowly filled my sight as I tightly gripped onto Dream. My bones felt drained from all my shaking but continue to rattle. After a while, Dream reached over to grab one of my toys and showed it to me. It was the papa bear doll as I reached out for a hug of protection.

“So where did that… thing… come from?” Dream asked aloud, but I don’t think he was directly asking me.

Slowly I mumbled, “sleep scawy.”

“Oh, so you saw that in your dreams, but it followed you back into reality?” Dream asked.

I nodded.

Dream rubbed a few tears off my face, “That is scary. Luckily, I was just a scream away…”

Small mutters from Dream about what to do next came from his mouth but too quiet to clearly hear. It sounded like he wanted to talk to Medic or Sci about magic environment blockers or some other methods for keeping my room safe at night. It only seems natural for a birth mother to become protective over their child but… I never thought it would show through Dream this much. Not with all the “limited chocolate” rules he puts on me.

Cross came through the door suddenly but quickly relaxed seeing we’re okay, “What happened?”

Dream turned to him, “Easter had a nightmare and her creation magic brought it to reality by accident.”

“Oh… is she okay? They didn’t touch her, did it?” Cross asked.

“No, I shot it in time,” Dream told him, “I think it’s best she avoids attending the meeting from now on. I think that creature was some sort of imaginary version of… you know…”

“Yeah, I think it’ll be for the best” Cross hummed before coming over and asking, “Is papa bear keeping Easter safe?”

Glancing at the toy in my arms, I nodded, “guawd.”

“That’s right, papa bear is a strong guard” Cross smiled.

“I know,” Dream said as he brushed my hair, “Does Easter want a happy story from Cross while mama brushes her hair?”

“Papa stowy” I mumbled as a correction.

Cross pulled over a rocking chair before clearing his throat. With a brush in hand, Dream slowly brushed the knotted golden hair that had tangled up during the nightmare. I kept holding the papa bear doll tightly as I wasn’t feeling ready to let go yet.

I glance at Dream and he appeared to be acting normally… So… did Abyss not say anything about me to Dream? I wonder why Dream wanted to talk to Abyss in the first place.

Chapter Text

My body shot straight up as I gasp. Another nightmare had filled my head as I felt a skull-ache starting to occur. It had been about a week since the meeting and each night was filled with nightmares. Some nights I hide in my room in case the creatures I see in my nightmare are created. Most nights, I end up in Dream’s room, but he grows more concerned each time he wakes up with me under the covers.

“It’ll only worry him if I sneak in again…” I mumbled, “I don’t need a worry pair of eye lights watching my every move…”

A scratching sound at my bed frame made me jump and head towards the door to my room. I couldn’t see what was there, but I wasn’t going to stick around. Entering the hallway and closing my door, I wonder if there was a safe spot to hide until morning. Guess now is a good time as easy to find hidden doors.

The dark hallway didn’t seem to have any secrets as I walked. Though I heard noises from Ink’s workspace as I wonder who or what was in there. Peeking inside, I relax seeing Blueberry trying to make sense out of Ink’s mess. Was he looking for something?

Turning the light to the area on, Blueberry jump and turned to me. He raised a hand to his chest as if I caused a soul attack but was now relaxing seeing it was just me. Blueberry cleared his throat as if trying to decide between making an excuse or asking why I was here.

“Sleep scawy” I told him.

“So, a scary nightmare woke you up? Why are you all the way over here?” Blueberry asked me.

“Mama sleep” I mumbled.

“Oh, you don’t want to wake Dream up?” Blueberry confirmed.

I nodded.

Blueberry thought before asking, “I’m looking for some documents. Can you help me find them?”

I tilted my head “documents?”

“Just information about… er…” Blueberry pulled his phone and typed something before showing me, “I want you to find anything that’s containing this phrase.”

The phrase was “final battle” as I wonder if Blueberry was looking for what happened to me. I nodded and started to sort out the mess on the floor. An hour later, Blueberry somehow found something before putting it into his inventory. Blueberry said it was time to take me back to bed as he held my hand.

“Check dawkenew” I softly asked of him.

Blueberry glanced at me while walking, “You want me to check under your bed for darkeners? Okay.”

Entering the bedroom, Blueberry looked under my bed as I went for my pillow. Pulling out the torn page from Abyss’s book, I couldn’t find a good hiding place here. Blueberry was good with hiding info. I should ask him to hang onto his.

“Pega-byss” I said and held out the paper.

Blueberry blink as he grabbed it, “You mean Abyss? That was a week ago…”

He looked at the page as I got into my bed. Moments later, he put the page in his inventory as he went to hug me. I was about to complain about the hugs, but I heard sniffling.

“I knew it…” he started before asking, “So you’re fully aware?”

“Yes,” I told him.

“How long?” he patted my hair.

“Chocolate tea” I huffed.

Blueberry paused before saying, “So that’s why Dream said the chocolate tea was calming. Though… that means you remember Nightmare and then… Oh stars, I need to tell Nightmare…”

With that, Blueberry just rushes out of the room. No “are you okay?” or “do you want to see Nightmare?” just… leaves me. Guess Blueberry was the type to get to focus on one detail instead of the whole picture when he’s emotional. Sure, he’s calm and calculating normally, but he’ll drop everything, and I do mean everything just to make sure a single detail is taken care of when too many emotions are rushing through him. At least I don’t need to worry about my page being left out in the open.

Getting comfortable in bed, I knew Blueberry would come back to discuss my current wellbeing. I yawned as my body didn’t like the lack of sleep. However, I notice something unsettling… Blueberry didn’t check my closet. Who knows what sort of beast from my nightmares was lurking in there?

As if to confirm my fears, a scratching sound came from my closet. Not wanting to stick around for the attack, I rushed out of bed and outside my door. Heading to where Blueberry would have gone, I swallowed seeing that the portal was open with no Blueberry. Hearing heavy steps behind me, I scampered through the portal before it could close.

Ending up in the snow, I figure out that Blueberry couldn’t just make a portal directly to Nightmare’s base. Instead, Blueberry went into his AU as a cover… which means I’ll get trap here soon if I don’t catch his attention.

Attempting to look around, I cursed my luck seeing it was snowing. Shivering, it felt like I lost all freeze resistance from my previous life. I should locate warmth if I can’t find Blueberry. The town shouldn’t be that far but… who knows how drunk Blueberry’s brother is. I’d rather avoid him at all costs even if that means freezing to death.

“Uncle Taco?” I called out as I walked to where I thought I saw his footprints.

The snow only got worse as I tread along. My feet felt like mini-ice shards wore piercing into them due to the lack of socks and shoes. When the trail had gone cold, meaning that Blueberry had a portal to Nightmare’s place, I looked around for some shelter.

“T̵̘͙̯̥̞͓̯̫̪̭͔͙̬̥̉̌̊̀͐̿̈͝ḩ̶̥̪̞̝̥̭͈̺̟̠̹̙̳̽̍̎͑͆̄̇̚͜e̶̡̬̮͒̒ͅŗ̴̧̪̲̤̳͖̞̙͙͐͗̓̑͋̾͋̎͝͝é̸̡̦̹̩͍̲͇͗̇̈́̍̂͐̽̅̕͘͜͝ͅ ̶̰̞͎͋͋̏͊̚͠͠y̷̢̠̲̻̎̒o̸̦͐͌ṷ̷̞̋̏̃̏̎͒̓̏͂͐̋̑̋̕͝ ̸̡̝͕͈̞̘̺͍̖͆̓͑̂͑̃͜͜a̶̡̢̗͙̍ṟ̸̡̢̩͍̯͓̥͚̲̰̫̟̲̉͒͆̂̚ě̶̡͕͍̝̦̦̬̪̟͈̥͗͛̈́̊͑͒̈́̊͊̆̽͌̉͠,̷̧̟͍̳͖̭̳̰̰̜̤͆͠ͅ ̶͙̝͔͒̿̅̂̍͌̈́̓̕͝E̷̛̖̳̙̓͗̆̑̎̀͆̀͝r̸̛̮͚̦̻̖͌̏̀̍̋̇͑̋͌̀̀̚r̶̡̫̞̳̟̭͍͍̼̓͗̏̈́̍̈́̆͘͠͝͠͝o̸̗̦̙̔̌̕r̴̼̆̄͝” a glitched voice spoke.

Now I never really heard my own voice before, but the gang always stated that it was glitched but still understandable. This voice was beyond deciphering what was being said and in what order. I shiver as I wonder if this voice belonged to this “Fatal Error” that was causing havoc.

“Ṯ̸̝̇̍̂̐h̴̝̱͙̰̫̜̋̇̑̓͂͊͠i̷̿̀̈́̆ͅn̸̢̖̻͙̐̄͋͌ķ̵̫̕̕ ̴̧̧̛͍͔̫̲̣̔̏̈̎͛́͋̕͝ͅy̸̝̰̞̠͓͚̟͍͊̾̈́͛̕͝o̷̞͈͒̊̒̑̍̋̔̍́͗͊̕͝u̷̠͇̺̤͕͈̓̓͊͂́͒̈́̈́͂̈́̕͝ ̴̠͕̗͈̻͇̥̥̿͗̄̍͛̈́̔̈́̆͝c̵͙͕̼̙̬͇̦̟͍̣͕̖̘̃̍̓͆͐̌a̸̧͕̟̲̳̜͓͖̣̼͉͇̹͑̈́̓̍̀͒̑̈́̄̅̏̊̚͝ṅ̵̡̠̼̩̞̻̮̱̝͍̗͐̈̎̐̇̃̀̓̆ ̸̨͓̰͍̙̼̲̬̤̘̻̭͕̬̟̓j̵̡͕͇͕̞̣̳͉̥͓͗̓͆̐̔ͅừ̷̛̝̫̲̲͌̽͊͐͒͑̓̎̚̕͝͝s̶̱͇͖̽̌͝ț̴̢͌̄̈͒̿͑̂̀͠͠ ̶̛̗̖͂l̶̢̹̱͍͍̪͓͔̞̩͓̈́̔̏͜ę̷̧̩͚̙̬̻̯̘̬̲̟̝̄̍̆̌͒̉̈́̽̂͝a̸̡̢̢̝̰̣͉̩̹̭̪̝̬̰̐̋̾̋͜ṿ̵̧̭̤̘̫̻̲̥͐̔̈͗̔̅̉͋̑̋̽͝ĕ̴̪͓͓͓̍̑̂͊͗ ̷̙͎̤͇̗̤̍́̊̄̀͐͛̀͒͑͐̈́͘͝m̴̨̨̥͙̘̺̣̼̖̣̖͑͜e̴̮͇͓̟̾̋̉͂͑̂̾̍̅͛̒̕͝ ̸̡̭͈͙̣͔͇̗̻̺͎͋̐̈́͋͗̒̾t̵̪̼̖͎̹̉͊̾̃̍̉͊̔̈͛̂͘͜͝ǒ̶̮̠̻̭̦̱̝͗̽̄̈́͝͝͝ ̴̨̛̜̘͓̆̈́̉͌̏̓̌̏̋̕͝r̸̦̫̗̲̻͉̘̬̼̝̯͉̯͒͆̽̐̔̈́̎̈́͗̈͊͂̕͜͝ò̸̦͌̈ẗ̸̝̞̳̩̞̬͚̬͚̪̗̤͆̔̃̔͌̿͗̚̚̕̚͝?̶̧̲̙̘͓͖̗͕̟͈̫̲̒̿̋̎͂̽̅͐͛̿̈́̾̚͘ ̸̧̥͙̩̩͙͍͚͚̦͔̰̾̄͐̑̐͠T̷̨̡̧̢͍̫͔̭̝̮̜̭͉̎͗͛̽̍̓̓͑͗͒̕͜͜͠h̷͔͓͙̘͍͇͖͙̠̪̖̠͚͕͗̆i̴̩̳͎̪͑́̂̉͒̃͆̕͠ͅņ̵̧̞̤͈͚͖͉͉͚̰̖̹̺͊̓̈̈́͑̋̀͌̋k̶̢̖̈́́̾̄̐ ̶̟̙̻̳͖̲̮͉̖̻͖̺̦̀̓̾̎y̸͉̦̹̭̖̭̬͈̭͎̎̐̋͝ͅǒ̶̫̥̗̳̲̮̬̘̞͉̬͍͊̽ư̵̡̩̖̺͕̥͈͂͐̎̂̀̕͝͝͝ ̶̧̡̨̫̤͇̠̫̝̊̐̋̊͑̃͑̕̚͝͠ͅc̶̹̯̻̥̜͈̮̭̠̖̤̊̋̇̑͆͒̿̋̊͊ͅa̴̡̳̺̲͇̩̟͚̎ņ̷̤͚̯͚͒͗͛͑͐͊͝ ̸̦̼̖̳̑̏̾̅͂̈́̀̒̈́̔̌̋͗h̶̼̱̰͍̬̘͚̻̐̍͋̌͑̚ͅͅͅị̵̡̛̺͈̹̭̣̉̃͛̽̄̃̇̃̀̚̚͜d̷̙̬̘̝̲̥̲̻̠͓͋͐̽͝ͅë̷͚̦́̍̓ ̵̛̣͈͍͕͎͇̬̦̦̏͒̊́̄̇͛́͗̏̕͠͠ͅi̴̻̝̳͌̂͘n̵̗̺̼̫̤͂̇͗ͅ ̵͔̺͋̏̆̂͋͆́̕͘t̶̨̧͎̳̩̮̗̯̉̓̂̊̽̑̚͝h̷̼̼͑͂a̴̧̨̛͓͎̹̭͔͙̮͑͋͐͂̍̍͊͐̓͐̉̈͝͝ţ̴̧͖̹̯̜͎͓̟̳̪͈̗͒́̇̔̔̊͒͐̈̚ͅ ̷̨̠̰̘͚̇̾͆̄́͘f̵̨̺͉̫͍̺͙̫͊͗͊̃̈́̑͌͜o̵̧̫̯̲̙̩͓̩̰̰̠͈͓͝ͅͅr̶̨̡̮̥͖̯̱̗̤͔̔̈́̈͒̈̃͜m̶̡̲̟͠?̴̛̥͉̹̩͈̬̭̓͛͌̿̓͗̕͠” the voice seemed to laugh as if they made a cruel joke.

Turning around, I tried to locate where the voice had come from. This was bad… I had no clue if I had the magic to make myself a portal. I couldn’t fight in this body yet and I don’t think I could outrun him. Blueberry doesn’t know that I followed him, and nobody else would know where I was.

Turning again, a skeleton was just inches away. He had a wide smile as pools of red filled his sockets. He was glitching as I notice a small resemblance to Geno… but which one? Either way, he looked ready to kill as threads of crimson were pulled away from his mouth.

A voice echoed in my mind as I couldn’t string the words coherently, “I̸̢̡͈̯͍͇̪̼̋̐̈́́͋̚̚’̷̧̡̯̘̪̼̠̼̺͙̭̼̙̇̊̓̔̇͊̑̏l̷̨̧̝̭̟͍͎̲̰̟͆̈́̾l̸̞̳͎̺̤̟̼̰͙͈̪͇̗̖̯̃͊̔ ̷̧̨̮̻̀̆̆͑̽̇͊͐̽͠k̴̲̠̺͚͚̥̜̩̗̪̱̼̻̮̆͌͒̐͗̓̔̓͆̑́͊̓͗͜į̶̫̞͎͖̙̻̰̗̻̈́̓͐̆̕͝͝l̵̡͓͓͍̖͕̱͔̫̮͇̑͂͊͑́̎͘͠ļ̸̤̳̼̣͌̓̊̓̍̍̍̅̅̓͛ ̴̨͗͋͛͘y̸̡̭̹̳͔̯͉̅̄̂̈͌͋͑o̴̡̡̼̯̫̘͎͔͗̓̈͑̔̆̍͑u̴̡̫̺̬̲̘͙̜̫̠̼̘͍̫͊̉͒̒͒̑ ̵̧̬̮̗͔͂̇̍͐̊̐̚͝͝f̸̧͇̼̪̉͗ǫ̷̛͕͙͉̱̦͉͍͖̯̳͇͒͆̏͋͊͆͌̔̋̌̈͘̕r̶̨̤̲͚͎̥͙̺͍͐͐͒̋̌ ̸̡̧̢̛͉͇̺̞͚̣̽͌̌͊͗̔̽̀͂̊̅̈̂ẉ̴̫̣̦̭͖̖̮͍̮̈́͐͒̿̈́͝ȟ̶̛͍̰̭̯͚̫̜̣͇̫͒̒̋͗́̚̕͜a̴̢̛̙̒̏̿̓̋̃̋̔ẗ̶͖̾͒̽̾͒͌͑̂̌͒̕̕ ̶̡͕̳̈́́͒̒̕̚͜y̷͕͍̼͛ȯ̵̦̤̘̬̰̹̹̙̱̬̼͂̂̃̈͆̏̒͐̉͜͝u̸̧̧̨͚̘̰̫̳͉̦̜̟̣͓͘’̸͔̥̭̗͕͇̻̺̲̥̝̪̭̦̎̂͛͋̐̓͆̆̂͊̎͠͝ͅv̷̲̳͔̗̹̯͉̗͕̳̫̓̓̎̚ë̷̢͓̙̻͎̗͓̥͉́̈́̂̈́̃ ̵̡̢̦͙̞͍̗̬̹͓̘̳̌̅͠͝d̶̜͚̣̬̗͇̠͇̞̺̖͈͆͊͋̈́̇͌̓͘͜ͅơ̶̡̧͕̟̜̩̼̖͖͍̼̻͊͋̓̆̾̈́̐̾̈̃͆̚͜͝͝ͅn̸̤̫̞̞̙̈́̊̊̐̑̊̆͌̑ę̷̗͇̱̼̼̱͖̪̲̙̗͓̹̹̾͛̓̈́̐͘͝.̷̢̡̼͈̺̣̯̬͖̳̔͗͑͂̕͝”

My body remain frozen as I couldn’t move. At this point, I wasn’t sure if it was fear or how frozen my body was. Eye lights shaking as I wonder again if this was it.

Suddenly I was tackled from the side as I rolled around. Once sorting out my spinning head, I felt somebody hugging me… tightly. Seeing a familiar tan cloth, I recognize this as Ink. Why was he here?

“There you are,” Ink said with no traces of fear, “Did you sneak out to find your Uncle Taco? Such a silly girl. Playing hide and seek in the middle of the night.”

“Dada?” I squeaked out as I wonder why he was ignoring the threat.

Ink had the most carefree smile on his face, “That’s right, daddy found you. Now it seems like your dad has some work to do before he can play, all right?”

He painted a stroller and strap me inside. He followed up by painting a blanket and placing it over the stroller so I couldn’t see what was happening. Guess he really wanted me to stay put while he tended to Fatal Error. Though… did he follow me here just to keep me safe?

The blanket must have some magic soundproof attached to it because I couldn’t hear what was happening. I could sense a massive fight based on how much the ground was shaking. I reached to move the blanket out of my view but tugging and pulling prove ineffective… Ink must-have fashion the blanket to the stroller itself on all sides.

Suddenly the stroller was pushed as I shiver wondering who it was. Then… nothing… the ground stopped moving as I remain in place. It felt warmer suddenly as I knew that I went through a portal.

The cloth was finally removed as I saw Ink. He looked tired and… missing an arm plus a few ribs. Ink moved his body as I couldn’t get a good look. He quickly painted himself a new arm and the ribs as he panted.

“Ailes” I mumbled and pointed.

Ink laughed, “Was Alter teaching you French? The word for arm is bras. What you just said was wings.”

I blushed. Guess Horror’s and Blueberry’s singing in French must have rubbed off some. At least Ink doesn’t find it old from my strange choice of words. Still, why didn’t I pick up more Spanish so I could watch more undernovela while understanding what they wore saying?

“So, what about my arm?” Ink asked me.

He showed me a freshly painted arm. I frown as I knew he was pretending as nothing had happened. Ink unstraps me and lightly bounces me in the air as if nothing happened and nothing was wrong.

“Ink…” groan Dream “It’s four in the morning…”

“Sorry, little Easter wanted to play hide and seek” Ink nuzzled my belly, “and made some snow to hide in.”

Liar. I stuck out one of my tongues out of annoyance while lightly hitting Ink’s skull.

“Snow?” Dream blinked and came over, “Ink, she’s half-frozen. Let me warm her up by the fireplace.”

“Come on, she’s a skeleton” Ink laughed, “there is no way she has gotten that cold from a bit of snow.”

“She’s also half nymph” Dream pointed out, “and the flower kind too. Her body is sensitive to the cold. It’s not like it’s common for flowers to grow in the middle of winter after all.”

“Nym?” I tilted my head as Dream took me from Ink.

“Alright, alright,” Ink said as he brushes some snow off his clothes, “I’ll make some firewood and get the fireplace started.”

“Thanks, honey” Dream smiled.

“Honey?” Ink looked at Dream confused, “Who’s um… honey?”

Dream blushed, “Sorry, I meant Ink.”

Ink stared for a moment before heading off to the fireplace. Dream tugged his cape off and wrapped it around my body. Pulling me into his chest, I felt a familiar warmth coming from his bones. Like from back when I was still inside of Dream… weird… but calming.

“Ink, are you sure she only made snow to play a game in?” Dream asked as he went to settle down in a rocking chair.

Ink nodded, “Yeah.”

“I… see…” Dream rubbed my back.

“Fatal” I softly coughed.

Ink didn’t seem to hear as he poke the fire. A hand rubbing my cheek told me that Dream heard me but isn’t going to ask about it. Guess Dream is going to assume that I stayed inside this whole time instead of being attacked in an AU… Dream already thinks I’m having nightmares because of the meeting about Fatal Error so it’s not like he’ll take me seriously if I did try talking to him.

Chapter Text

“Dada” I whined as Ink sat me down for a morning nap.

“What?” Ink asked me.

I pointed to my closet, “Check.”

Ink nodded and opened my closet and looked around. He blinked a few times before picking something up. I quiver thinking it was the beast from last night as he held something furry in his hand.

“It’s a mouse,” Ink told me, “Souris.”

A mouse? That was making those noises last night. You’re saying that I almost got myself killed over a mouse?

Making a small jar, Ink puts the rodent inside. He shows it to me as the small creature scurries around the sides trying to get out. I frown as I watch the helpless creature panic for freedom.

“See, nothing to be afraid of,” Ink told me, “Is this what happened last night? You heard something and wanted Uncle Taco to take care of it?”

Slowly nodding, I confirmed what Ink had said. No use in denying it since it wasn’t another night terror coming to life.

Dream came to the bedroom door covered in a cold sweat, “Ink, bad news, it’s urgent.”

Ink nodded, “Get some sleep Easter. Dada-père needs to make sure this little guy doesn’t cause you any more stress.”

Nodding, I shuffled into my blankets. Ink left with Dream as I wondered what had happened. My only guess is that Ink didn’t fend off Fatal Error and he went on to destroy that AU. If that was Blueberry’s AU… I hope Blueberry is okay… I’ll ask Dream if Blue is okay when they come back.

After a short nap, I stumble out of my room looking for Dream or Ink. As I walked around the hallway, I didn’t see them… not in the dining room or their personal rooms. Worried, I decided to see if they were in the foyer talking to some panic Sans or something.

The Sans seemed calm as I glanced into the area. Idle chatter filled the room as they seemed to be speaking about their own AUs. I didn’t see Ink or Dream anywhere in the room as I wonder how long they’ll be.

“Looks like somebody is still in their pajamas” cooed Color as he noticed me.

I blinked as I didn’t know if I should run back to my room or stay put. Color came over and bent down to my eye level. My eye lights watched his movements as I wasn’t sure what I should say…

“Did Ink and Dream forget to call you a babysitter?” Color asked me, “How about you show me to the kitchen, and I’ll make you something to eat? I’m not a great cook, but it’ll be better than going hungry.”

“Chocolate cake?” I asked.

Color laughed, “Chocolate cake isn’t breakfast. Sure, it has eggs and milk but Outer clearly told me that cake is never breakfast… unless it’s a type of pancake.”

“Chocolate pancake” I smirked.

“Oh no, you figure out the loophole” Color laughed again, “Alright, but eat some fruit, or else Dream will have my head for only feeding you junk food.”

Heading to the kitchen, Color seemed more than happy to cook as he gathered the ingredients onto the counter. He handed me a bowl asking for a bit of help in mixing. Taking the metal stick with wires at the end, I decided to follow along… I’m getting chocolate faster if I help. A sudden flash caused me to blink as I noticed Color had his phone out.

“I’m just letting your parents know that you're doing fine” Color hummed.

“Hide chocolate” I mumbled.

Color nodded, “Don’t worry, they'll think we’re making normal pancakes.”

After finishing mixing, Color said he’ll handle the cooking part. I watched as I could smell the sizzle of the chocolate delight on the frying pan. I swallowed my drool as I waited for my chocolate.

“Here you go,” Color told me as he put a plate down in front of me, “Fresh chocolate pancakes.”

I was about to take a huge bite but stopped. Color never cook for me before… was his food safe? I took out a smaller bite and held it out for Color.

“Shall wits” I mispronounced as I made my demand.

Color looked confused as he said, “I already ate?”

“Bite, bite” I whined this time.

Color pulled out a new fork and took a bite from my plate, “like this?”

Satisfied, I nodded and went to eat the pancake that was still on my fork. Chewing the sweet chocolate flavor in my mouth, I savor the bite before moving on to the text. Color was texting but a single flash told me he must have been talking to my parents.

“I’m back,” Ink said as he came in, “Color? Did I forget that you wore babysitting or something?”

“No, Easter came into the foyer with a hungry look in her eyes, so I invited myself to make her something to eat” Color smiled.

Ink blinked as he processes this before saying, “Guess we forget to get a babysitter since we wore in such a rush.” Ink laughed it off before brushing my hair with, “Can Easter tell Color “Merci beaucoup” for the delicious breakfast?”

“Mercy” I nodded in Color’s direction.

After all, in Horror’s book, getting food was a sign of great mercy. Food is worth more than its weight of gold, especially chocolate. Wait… did Ink ask me to say something in French?

“Bon travail” Ink cleaned off a bit of chocolate from my face, “You’ll be fluent in French in no time.”

“You’re welcome, Easter” Color told me, “Now, I have some plans for lunch so I should get going.”

Color got up to leave as I notice a small green package fall from his pocket. Curious, I was quick to pick it up. Did it read… catnip? Why does Color need catnip? What is catnip even for?

“Cat” I mumbled as went over to Color to give it back.

“Did I drop this?” Color said as he took it, “Thanks for picking it up for me.”

“What?” I asked and pointed to the package.

Color paused before saying, “It’s a very special treat for cats.”

I remember seeing Killer with a cat-themed phone charm once… Dust made fun of him for it. Did Killer like cats? Was Color getting catnip for Killer?

“Ah, Easter, are you interested in getting a chat?” Ink asked me.

I gave Ink an annoyed looked as I didn’t want a pet. Besides, I’m fairly sure Ink will try feeding it with pure paint or something. That means Dream will oversee feeding and… wait, where is Dream?

“Mama?” I asked.

“Okay, okay… we’ll ask mama first” Ink went to write the note down on his scarf.

Speaking of Dream, what about Blueberry? Is he okay? Is he safe?

“Uncle Taco?” I asked.

Ink paused before asking, “why would Blueberry get a vote in this?”

“Uncle Taco” I repeated.

“Fine, we’ll get Blueberry’s vote…” Ink sighed.

Dream and Cross came into the room. I went over as Dream bent down for a hug. I was confused with the gesture but decided I could withstand a hug. Being held now, I felt something wet on Dream’s cheek.

“Uncle Taco?” I softly asked.

Dream didn’t answer but held me tightly. So… either Blueberry did get hurt or the gang decided the destroyed AU was a threat and put Blueberry on mansion arrest. I hope that Blueberry is simply being pinned down at the mansion for his own safety.

“So… what do you think about getting a cat?” Ink asked.

Dream frowned, “Now isn’t the time for that.”

“I’ll put a later on that idea than” Ink replied.

Chapter Text

“Easter, guess what’s coming up?” Ink cooed.

“Chocolate?” I wondered.

Ink shook his head, “Close, Halloween.”

I tilted my head.

“It’s a day where we dress up as spooky creatures and ask for candy,” Ink told me, “But since Dream doesn’t trust the Omega timeline for you to be out without trick or treating, you’ll be joining the Sans’s party here.”

“Chocolate?” I asked.

“Yes, you’ll get your chocolate” Ink laughed, “Now what do you want to dress up as? We’ve got a fairy princess, a kitty cat, and… um… where did I put it?”

How were those things spooky? Guess it was simply dressing up instead of actual scary stuff. If that’s correct, I could ask for something scary, but people would think I’m being cute.

“Dada!” I pointed at him, “Père!”

“Huh?” Ink blinked.

“Halloween” I firmly told him.

Ink smiled, “You want to be your old man? Oh boy, I’m so excited… time to make a mini outfit.”

Ink rushed off leaving me behind. Little did he know the reason. Guess I’ll have to see what this Halloween thing is about. Wait… The gang brought it up… said they were going to watch something called… slasher? Yeah, I don’t think Dream is letting me do the gang’s thing.

Wondering what sort of chocolate will be available, I made my way to the kitchen. I smelled pastries and… chocolate, my mouth had trouble containing my tongues that wanted to taste the wonderful flavor in the air. If only I could eat the chocolate essence out of the air.

“Easter” Dream spoke as he showed up behind me, “Didn’t your dad ask about a costume?”

“Making” I explained.

“Ah, he went off to make it…” Dream’s gaze slowly went into the kitchen, “How about a snack until he gets back?”

“Chocolate” I licked my teeth.

“Let’s try something new… okay?” Dream said as he went into the kitchen.

I noticed a few Sans wearing borrowing the kitchen to cook, which is surprising. Most of these Sans are usually lazy… wore they cooking a prepared treat? Seeing the lack of a mess, which must be the case.

“Here you go,” Dream said while handing me a plate of… cones?

I sniffed it and… it’s just sugar? I picked up the white-tipped yellow-ring and orange-bottom cone and bit it. This wasn’t chocolate and it tasted so weird. I shook my head and pushed the plate back to Dream.

“Really?” Dream sighed, “Maybe a different treat will be better.”

The next treat Dream went for was an orange flat thing… was that supposed to be a pumpkin shape? Seeing it wasn’t chocolate, I decided I wouldn’t get anything I wanted from Dream… I should leave…

“Is she being a picky eater?” Red said as he came into the kitchen.

He placed a box on the counter as I recognize the smell from it. Underfell chocolate aka the best chocolate. I should ask him to give me some. Yes, that’s a million times better than Dream trying to find me a new favorite treat.

“Sort of, the only thing she’s interested in is chocolate right now” Dream explained to him.

Red had a grin on his face like he was going to play a prank on me. He opened the box and pulled out a bag of chocolate. It was a serving-size bag with an orange rib ion as the little round heavens looked crowded in the translucent plastic. I should free them into a more open area… my stomach.

“Please” I reached up with drool coming out of my mouth.

“Are you sure?” Red dangle it right above my head.

“Please” I jumped to reach the bag but missed.

“Easter, this isn’t like the chocolate you normally get,” Dream told me.

Red nodded, “That’s right, this chocolate is extra bitter.”

“Please, please” I begged.

Red finally gave in and let me have the bag. I didn’t hesitate to open it and plop one into my mouth. Aw, sweet bitter and… wait… cherry? Was this cherry in the chocolate? The natural sweetness of the cherry blended perfectly with the chocolate. Where were these in my previous life? Did Red successfully hide chocolate from me?

Red reached for the bag saying, “See, this isn’t that sweet weak stuff you're used to.”

I pulled the bag towards me, “Good, good.”

“You think it’s good?” Red asked a bit surprised.

“Yes, yummy” I plop another into my mouth.

Dream scratched his head for a moment before saying, “Guess she likes bitter chocolates…”

Red sighed, “and here I wanted to spoil her appetite.”

“It’s okay, I sort of wanted her to find a new favorite food either way” Dream shrugged, “So, are these special Underfell Halloween chocolates?”

“We’ve nicknamed them LOVE filled chocolate, but it’s just a cherry at the center” Red explained, “We use sweet white-gold cherries during the Halloween season since gold is used like "Nothing gold can stay" written by that human, Robert Frost, and white is… ya know… the color of monster dust. So, we call 'em "bittersweet death of innocence."”

“Did somebody call for Death?” a familiar black cloth floated into the room.

“Oh, we wore just talking about chocolate” Red told him.

“Ah, Reaper, you came” Dream smiled, “Is Geno and his little one coming too?”

“They’re in the foyer talking to Alter” Reaper hummed, “Geno won’t admit it, but he’s happy to be out of the save screen right now.”

“I do wonder how Easter will have a good relationship with them…” Dream paused before saying, “Oh, this is your first-time meeting Easter, right?”

Reaper glanced at me before muttering something under his breath. Could he sense my soul? He’s the grim reaper so he should be able to sense the souls around him and their clocks… right?

“Hello” I waved before plopping another chocolate into my mouth.

“Looks like somebody is enjoying their candy” Reaper replied, “Red, these are the chocolates that Geno likes… right?”

“No, these are the ones that Geno likes,” Red said as he pulled out an orange bag with a red ribbon, “you should know that these chocolates aren’t for children.”

“Right, right,” Reaper said as he grabbed the chocolates carefully, “I keep forgetting that Geno likes his with a bit of poison. Thanks, Red.”

Bit of poison? Like… alcohol? Red’s AU mixes a lot of alcohol into their foods, but I don’t recall taking those types of chocolates from his AU before.

“Easter, I’m sure dada is looking for you to wear your special costume now” Dream told me, “Why don’t you give me the chocolate so you can eat them after getting dressed?”

“No, mini-heaven mine” I huffed and poured the rest of the bag into my mouth.

Dream only sighed as I handed him the empty bag. Chewing them, I made sure to enjoy and swallow before heading off. I can’t risk Dream with my chocolates.

Finding Ink, he had finished making my scary costume. After getting into it, Ink took out a small paintbrush saying I was missing one detail. His cheek mark of course…

My bones shake as Ink held the brush near my face. Sure, it wasn’t broomie… but… it was wet and cold like Ink’s aggressive paint… except for the fire paint, that stuff is hot.

“There we go, one mini-père ready to go,” Ink said as he got out a mirror.

I shiver at the sudden appearance of a second Ink. If it weren’t for the hair, I’d look just like him. Now I was dressed as the most terrifying thing in the multiverse… a squid.

“Dada, père” I chimed.

“That’s right you little adorable creator” Ink had a huge smile on his face.

Ink picked me up and put me on his shoulders for a “piggyback ride” as we went towards the foyer. A lot of Sans wore the strangest attire when we got there… a few of them wore a set of food items to combine into a… sandwich? I overheard a couple of Sans saying that I was being… cute? It sounded like typical child behavior to dress up as a parent or hero based on what they wore saying to each other.

“Goth, I know it’s noisy” I heard Geno sigh, “Just let me greet a few more Sans than…”

“Geno,” Ink interrupted him, “Are you enjoying yourself?”

Geno didn’t seem to answer as he said, “Hey Ink, you couldn’t help but invite the whole multiverse… did ya?”

Geno had a white marshmallow in his arms as I noticed a single eye light glancing around timidly. Knowing how Geno and Reaper normally behave, this little guy would be cooped up in isolated locations. Must be quite a shock for him to suddenly be thrown into a huge party.

“How could I leave anybody off the guest list?” Ink tilted his head.

“I guess not. So… you decided to dress up your kid as yourself?” Geno asked as if continuing the conversation.

“She requested it” Ink smiled, “Right, little creator?”

“Squid, squid!” I giggled this time.

“No, I’m pretty sure that’s a spider costume,” Ink said as he glanced at another Sans passing by.

Geno glanced at his kid before looking at the exit, “Did you see Reaper on the way here?”

“Chocolate,” I explained, “kitchen.”

“Oh, do you want to sneak some candy from the kitchen, Easter?” Ink concluded, “Geno, do you want to check the kitchen for him?”

Geno looked around before rolling his eye light, “fine, it’s better than sticking around here.”

Heading in that direction, Reaper was in the hallway with the bag of chocolate in hand. Guess he wanted to chat a bit more before leaving. Geno walked past us to get to Reaper like he was in a hurry.

“There you are” Geno sighed, “Goth was spooked from all the onlookers.”

“He was?” Reaper spoke casually, “Or maybe somebody wanted to have their deadly husband keeping the poachers away.”

“Nobody is going to steal me or our son” Geno frowns, “Idiot.”

“If Goth that spooked, there is always Easter’s room” Ink brought up.

“I don’t know…” Geno hummed.

“Please mama” a soft squeak came from the marshmallow.

Geno paused before saying, “Alright.”

“And maybe later we could sneak from the party a bit later for some…” Reaper started but was cut off by Geno’s glare.

Heading to my bedroom now, I assumed I was going to be in there with um… Goth was it? I wonder if Alter would come to keep an eye on us while the adults do… whatever is normal for this Halloween party.

“Easter, can you show Goth some toys he can play with?” Ink asked as he put me on the ground.

Nodding, I walked over to my stuff animal pile and picked a random one up. I walked back and held the… stuff dinosaur… up so the timid marshmallow could see it within the range of their only eye light. A shaky hand took it and hugged onto it as they seem to debate if they’ll be okay here.

“See, it’s quiet and plenty of toys to play with,” Geno told the marshmallow while slowly putting them down.

The skeleton child stood as if they didn’t know what to do now. Geno and Reaper soon left seeing that Goth wasn’t crying. Ink also left saying he needs to get more AU ideas during this exciting time. I do hope he’ll remember to grab Alter to have him oversee us.

“Easter” I introduce myself to Goth.

Goth nervously nodded, “Goth.”

Okay… what now? How do normal children play together? Storytime with the stuffed animals?

Goth sat down without any signs of wanting to engage in play. Guess he’s still calming down from suddenly being brought to an unfamiliar area. I’ll leave him be to relax and adjust for now.

After a few miniatures, I heard a ripping sound. Turning to Goth, he had torn off the head of the Dino. I should have thought that he was a Reaper’s kid. He looked a little bit more relaxed as he started to take out the white fluff.

I snorted as Goth jumped and remember where he was. He looked towards me as he started to hide the toy. Guess he wanted to believe that he was at home.

Picking up another stuffed toy, I slowly tore the head off in front of Goth. He should feel at home. The only way to say that was by showing him that he’s allowed to be himself.

Goth slowly smiled and brought out the torn toy and continue to do what he was doing. Soon we move on the other stuffed toys and tore them apart. This felt refreshing and nostalgic as I found myself enjoying this game as well. Until…

“Easter, I heard…” Dream said as he opened the door.

He stood with his mouth wide open as he saw the mess we’d made. Goth turned back to nervousness and attempted to hide under the cotton. Being in that marshmallow outfit, he blended in well. I just sat where I was as I knew there was no avoiding the “no chocolate” punishment.

Dream took a slow breath in finally before saying, “Who wants Storytime?”

Goth perked up, “stowy?”

Hold on, no punishment? I’m still allowed chocolate. Was this, okay? Was I behaving too well for somebody my age?

“Yes,” Dream said as he went to the bookshelf, “Goth, can you pick out a story for us to read?”

Goth looked them over before grabbing a book and handing it to Dream. Dream nodded and told us about a very hungry bug that ate everything in sight. Goth followed along as I mostly paid attention.

“Butter!” Goth explain as he pointed to me suddenly.

I blinked in confusion. He was talking about the butterfly in the book but… I didn’t eat in front of him so how and why does he think that? Wait, I was Error in my previous life… did Goth sense something off about my soul and thought I transformed into my current form?

“You think Easter is pretty like the butterfly?” Dream asked him.

Goth shook his head, “soul yellow, gween inside.”

“Oh, you mean Easter soul is like a chrysalis and is becoming a butterfly?” Dream concluded.

Goth nodded, “Butter, butter!”

So, this was about my soul shape? Dual colors are rare for most monsters. Most monsters are born with pure white souls but, strong inherited magic can influence the soul’s color. Being Dream’s kid, I would inherit his golden magic. But the green… Ink doesn’t have a soul so where would the green come from… unless… The color of my old soul was blue, which could mean that it appears green through yellow-glass-like magic. That means my old self and magic are wrapped around a newer golden layer. Why though? Souls don’t normally form like that.

“Easter, do you think you’ll grow wings one day?” Dream asked me, “Colorful wings like this butterfly?”

“White” I frown as I didn’t like the idea of color springing out of my back.

“Oh, you want white wings?” Dream smiled before asking, “Like a white morpho?”

I tilted my head before Dream pulled out a book on bugs and turns the pages. He showed me a white butterfly with golden veins along with its wings along with golden rings. It seems on theme with my white bones and golden hair.

“Yes,” I told him.

A knock came from the door and Dream said he could enter. Geno came in and he looked like he was ready for the night to be over. Reaper was hugging him from behind while kissing Geno’s cheek. Weird…

“Mama, mama” Goth smiled and went to Geno.

“Goth did… wow, I don’t remember there being so much stuffing around” Geno pointed out.

“Goth and Easter wore just having a bit of fun before I came to check on them” Dream explained.

Geno stared at the mess, “Guess it’ll only be proper to replace them…”

“No-no, it’s okay,” Dream told him, “Ink can remake them with a wave of his paintbrush."

“You sure? They might make this a habit” Geno slowly spoke.

“I’m just happy that all that energy isn’t being pent up” Dream smiled but it felt… polite and forced for some reason.

“Anyways, it’s way past Goth’s bedtime, we’d better tuck him in,” Geno told him.

Goth gave a yawn to confirm Geno’s statement, “Bed.”

“Bye-bye” I waved.

Goth waved back as Geno picked the tired marshmallow up. I wonder if I’ll see Goth again, so I have a way to figure out more normal behaviors. Though I don’t think we’ll be getting away with toy murder every single time.

Chapter Text

I woke up with a gasp. Looking to my bones I found my familiar black with red and yellow phalanges. I was sitting in my anti-void as I wonder how I was asleep in the first place. What was I even… dreaming about?

Getting up, my bones ache as I found trouble finding my balance. It was like I suddenly grew a few feet but… I’ve always been this height. This… this doesn’t feel right to me. Something is wrong… but what?

Maybe Nightmare will know something? He knows everything plus more. Wait, when was the last time I saw Nightmare? I shouldn’t feel so… excited to see him and the rest of the gang. Soon a strong urge to check on Blueberry came to mind. Like he was in danger, but I also wasn’t sure if he was.

Walking inside an AU, I notice I was in Snowden but… did I pick the right AU that Blueberry should be in? Everything felt off… the trees wore bigger than ever. The snow was deep enough to reach my shoulders.

“Why did you abandon me?” I heard a sob from behind.

I turn to see… was that Blueberry or someskele else?

Suddenly my arms and legs wore tangled in a red thread. Gasping, I struggled but the twine didn’t show signs of breaking. The lines tighten to the point where…

“Easter!” A cry rang out.

I woke with a start as I gasp for air. T-that was a dream? Or was I in the dream now?

Looking at my white bone arms with golden markings, I notice a red thread wrapped around them. I gently pull them away being careful to not hurt myself in the process. Next, I moved to my legs before I got up from bed.

“At least I didn’t create a beast this time” I sighed.

Heading to the kitchen, Ink was cooking this time. Dream was next to him and seem to be… trying to hug Ink from behind. Ink shifted away signaling that he didn’t want this display of affection as Dream frowned.

“Mama, Père, bonjour” I spoke in case Dream decided to take things a bit further.

Dream smiled, “Good morning, my daffodil. Did you have a good sleep?”

I lied with a nod, “Chocolat?”

“Yes, pancakes with the colorful chocolates” Ink told me.

“Yays” I giggled.

After a warm breakfast, I got my teeth brushed and then got dressed. Ink said goodbye to me before heading off to the OmegaTimeline for construction creation work. Dream took me to the foyer to wait for Alter as he was going to babysit me this morning but…

Dream frown as he got off the phone, “Easter, Alter can’t babysit today.”

“Go with mama?” I pointed to myself.

Dream rubbed the back of his neck, “Well… alright, but first…”

He took out a necklace and put it around my neck. The “charm” of the necklace made a small ticking sound as if it were mechanical in some way. I don’t think it was a watch though…

“Don’t take this off” Dream firmly told me, “This is just a little magic charm to make sure bad people don’t sense you, okay?”

Like Nightmare? I don’t think he’ll do anything rash though. I don’t think Nightmare would attempt to kidnap me unless I was in danger.

“Stay on,” I told Dream.

“That’s my good daffodil” Dream patted my hair softly.

Dream picked me up and carried me through one of his portals. We wore outside a house in a Snowdin area, but the trees seemed huge. What AU is this?

“Dream, Cross is still sleeping,” a skeleton said as he opened the door.

Dream sighed, “He is? Guess that’s why he didn’t get the memo that we’re taking Easter with us while we work today.”

“Wow, I take it this is the little stowaway” the skeleton teased.

“Mama” I squeaked.

“Easter, this is Epic. He’s Cross’s roommate” Dream explained to me, “Epic, this is my daughter Easter.”

“Hi there, bruh” Epic greeted me.

So, if he’s Cross’s roommate and I call Cross “papa” as in “papa bear” that would mean…

“Uncle?” I tilted my head.

“No, no, it’s Epic” Dream corrected me.

“It’s cool, bruh” Epic smiled, “Asriel and Chara call me “uncle” too.”

“Alright, if it’s okay with you” Dream sighed.

Epic signals us to come inside as the adults' ramble about the day. Dream set me down on the couch as I noticed how soft the couch was. This wasn’t cheap fabric as I wonder who brought this furniture into the house. It also hadn’t been torn or had grease stains on it. That must mean they keep it in good repair.

“Couch nice” I pointed out.

“Yes, Easter, it’s a very nice couch” Dream agreed.

Cross came out of his room upstairs, he looked half asleep as he walked. He was only wearing a t-shirt and some boxers as I assume he didn’t check his phone yet. Guess I should say something, so he knows about the guest.

“Papa Bear!” I waved as Dream covered my mouth.

Cross jumped as he heard me.

“E-Easter?” Cross asked before checking the time, “Epic, why didn’t you wake me up earlier?”

“You looked tired last night,” Epic told him.

“S-sorry, Dream, Easter, I’ll be right back,” Cross said as he went to his room.

Epic snorted, “I better go stop him from getting tangled up in his uniform.”

“I’ll just watch some TV in the meantime” Dream said, “Do you have any kid channels?”

“It’s 14-1” Epic hummed as he handed Dream the remote.

Dream turns on the TV and changes it to the mentioned channel. Puppets appeared on screen and wore singing happy songs. I could see the strings move their noodle arms around as their mouths opened and closed coordinated with their words.

“Easter, don’t stand so close to the tv” Dream said as he pulled me back to the couch, “It’s bad for your eye sockets.”

Wait, when did I get so close to the tv?

“What’s that?” I asked and pointed to the tv.

“It’s um… I’m not sure” Dream scratched his head, “But those are puppets dancing on the screen.”

“Likes puppets,” I told Dream.

Dream tapped his chin for a bit before suggesting, “Do you want to ask dad to make some puppets together?”

I felt my eye lights glow, “Yes.”

Dream light out a light chuckle, “It sounds like the perfect thing for the two of you to do.”

I missed my old puppets in the anti-void. Now I have a chance to make some new ones. Sure, it won’t replace the puppets I’m used to, but now I have a chance to return to familiar territory.

“S-sorry about that” Cross stuttered as he came out of his room.

“Papa bear” I pointed to the tv, “Puppets, puppets.”

“Puppets?” Cross said as he came down the stairs, “Oh, you like this show?”

I nodded, “Puppets.”

“Sorry about earlier Cross, I should have waited for a reply” Dream told him.

“It’s okay, so it brings your daughter to work day?” Cross confirmed as he ruffled my hair, “Sounds like we’re sticking to the safer AU than.”

Dream nodded, “Yes, that’ll be for the best.”

“You know” Epic coughed, “I could take the day off and let Easter watch TV all day instead. I don’t think she’s ready to leave the entertainment that is of puppets.”

Huh? Oh, I’m standing close to the TV again. Dream picked me up and put me on the couch.

“You sure?” Dream asked, “This is her first time out inside the AUs.”

“I’m sure,” Epic replied, “This way you don’t need a last-second babysitter in case something comes up.”

Dream thought it over before saying, “Okay, but call me if she’s being a handful.”

“Bye-bye” I waved.

“Easter, we haven’t even…” Dream sighed, “Cross, do you need something to eat before we go?”

Cross shook his head, “I’ll pick up some take-out.”

“No bruh” Epic said while pushing a container to Cross’s hands, “Jelly donuts.”

“But those are rice balls… aren’t they?” Dream said as Cross investigated the container's contents.

“No, these are jelly donuts” Cross smiled, “Thanks bruh.”

“No worries bruh” Epic smiled.

I stared at the TV as I asked, “is Uncle Epic also a mama?”

“No, he’s just being a good bro” Cross explained to me.

Thinking back to the gang… I don’t think they pack meals for each other. Though they made sure that everyone in the gang was well-fed. The gang let each other sleep in… to an extent. Yeah, that’s how a normal brotherhood behaves, I guess.

“Easter be good for Epic, alright?” Dream asked of me, “Now we’ll pick you up as soon as we’re done with work.”

Dream kissed my cheek before himself and Cross went out the door. I watched the show as I heard Epic making a few phone calls. A commercial showed up as I blinked for the first time in a while.

“So, Easter, what do you want for lunch?” Epic asked me.

“Chocolate” I answered.

Epic had a smile, “So bruh is also a chocolate lover.”

“Chocolate, buh” I repeated.

“How about an epically healthy meal, bruh?” Epic asked me.

“Cwepe” I muttered.

“Crepes?” Epic confirmed before humming, “I think I can make some tuna crepes… add some lettuce and…”

“Chocolate sauce” I drooled.

“No, I’m not mixing chocolate and tuna, bruh” Epic shook his head.

The commercial was already over as I turn my attention back to the TV. More puppets singing and dancing while trying to tell a story… but what was the story?

“Lunchtime” Epic said as hours had passed by already.

Getting up, I went over to the table. Epic seemed surprised that I didn’t want to eat in front of the TV. The couch is nice, I don’t want to mess it up.

“Here you go,” Epic told me, “One tuna crepe.”

I looked at the plate as it seemed like Epic tried to form a face out of vegetables on the rounded ball of tuna. Was this… a cat?

“Kitty cwepe” I giggled as I picked it up like one of Blueberry’s Tacos.

Epic sat down with a more ordinary tuna crepe as he messages somebody on his phone. I assume it was to Dream to say that I was eating a healthy lunch as I bite into the food. Fresh and juicy. It was soft but had crunch from the vegetables. It was also cold like it was a tuna salad that happened to be in a crepe.

“Good food,” I told Epic, “Merci.”

“I’ll let them know that you like it, bruh” Epic stated as he finishes to text.

Epic put his phone face down on the table and started to eat. After a few more bites a knock came at the door. Epic excused himself saying that it must be his brother although…

“Where’s Cross?” a dark voice boomed.

Chapter Text

A hacking cough came from the unannounced visitor at the door. I looked in confusion as I saw a very pale member of the gang leaning on the door frame. Why did Dust ask for Cross? Why was he that pale?

“Why do you want Cross?” Epic asked.

“LisTen” Dust coughed, “He MESS with my VOice.”

Epic looked humored but serious, “I don’t think Cross did that, bruh.”

“Who elSE can MEss with thIS” Dust heaved out this time.

“A normal cold?” Epic asked.

Dust rolled his eye lights, “SkeleTONs don’t get COlds.”

“They do” Epic glanced to me for a second before saying, “Now why don’t you just head home and sleep it off?”

“Cross FIRST” Dust coughed.

“Fine, I’ll call Cross… and you can have the couch… but no magic allowed” Epic shifted away from the door but kept himself between Dust and myself.

Dust staggered in and to the couch as Epic kept a careful eye on him. Instead of sitting down like a normal skeleton, Dust seemed to allow himself to fall onto the couch in the face-down position before adjusting himself. Wow, he must really be sick.

Epic picked up his phone and dial for Cross as I finish chewing on lunch. He explained the situation while standing the whole time. It sounded like there was a minor argument about letting Dust into the house, but the call was short.

As Epic hung his phone, he turned to me with, “Easter, how does an early nap sound?”

Guess it can’t be helped. The more distance I have from the gang the less likely a fight will break out if Dust attempts to attack… or if the rest of the gang showed up. As much as I want to talk to Dust, it’ll be best to let him rest for now.

I made a fake yawn and nodded to answer Epic’s question. He picked me up and carry me up the stairs as I watch Dust starting to snooze on the couch. Nice to know how one member of the gang is doing… but I wonder what the others wore up to if they allowed Dust to leave the base while sick.

“Here, the guest room,” Epic said as he opened the door, “Can you stay in here and nap until your mama comes to pick you up?”

“Good skele sleeps” I replied as Epic tucked me into the bed.

“Do you need a story?” Epic asked me.

I shook my head, “Guest needs stowy.”

Epic smiled, “I’ll make sure he’s okay, bruh.”

Epic left the room as I heard the door lock. I remember how the gang could lock each other in their bedrooms if needed… though Nightmare remove those locks after Killer pulled a prank on Horror. That so-called prank ended up with Horror stashing even more food in his room and tearing down his own door if it was ever closed.

I shifted in the covers as I caught Dream’s scent on the sheets. Dream must sleep here from time to time. Why though? He’s always sleeping the night at home so when… it’s a daytime nap also?

I heard a loud knocking as I figure it must be Cross… but why would Cross knock if he lives here? Confused, I got up and looked out the window. Oh, Nightmare figure out where sick Dust went and must be wanting to pick him up.

But there was Cross and Dream coming up over there… they look defensive about it. Oh no, Cross is charging Nightmare at full force. The two are fighting now as Dream slips past them and into the foyer. Epic goes out and tries to break the two up at first but ended up fighting Nightmare instead.

Great… simply great… Cross you don’t go around attacking a passive enemy when a kid could get hurt. I hope Dream tells you off later. Then again, Epic might do it as he was the one at the door talking to Nightmare.

“Easter?” Dream asked as he unlock the door and came into the room.

“Mama?” I replied as I kept looking out the window.

Dream pulled me away while saying, “I don’t want you to learn from their behavior.”

“Why?” I asked.

“Well, um… I’ll explain later” Dream sighed, “Now, let’s get you back home.”

Just then, a loose bone attack shattered the window. I squeaked as I saw a bone lodge in the ceiling now and gripped onto Dream. Dream hugged me before grabbing a blanket and wrapping it around my body.

“This is a special blanket that’ll keep you safe” Dream explained as he started to carry me.

He headed downstairs as he pulled the blanket, so it’ll block my sight. Dream must have been halfway down the stairs when he suddenly stops. My first guess was that Dust woke up and was posing a threat… however I wrong.

“Dream…” Nightmare grumbles, “You really should keep your dogs on a tighter leash.”

“I could say the same to you, brother” Dream sounded tough, but it was only surface level.

“You should keep in mind who’s has the upper hand right now” Nightmare sounded confident, “So what’s in the sheet?”

“Er…” Dream took a step up the stair, “How about you take Dust and leave? I’m sure you have better objectives to attend to… like asking Fatal error to join your team.”

“Oh, I would never let him join my team. His real agenda isn’t in line with my desires” Nightmare scoffs, “I’d rather remove him before he gets a chance to… ruin my plans.”

“Remove him?” Dream blinked before suggesting, “Sounds like we have the same goal, perfect for forming a temporary truce.”

“I don’t dare risk my teammate with those idiots that claim to be all so smart” Nightmare grumbled.

“I… I see…” Dream shifted his grip on me.

“So, what do you have there?” Nightmare returns to that question.

Dream turns to commit to heading back up the stairs, “J-just take Dust and leave. We don’t need to drag the fight any longer than what it should be.”

A tentacle must have stopped Dream from proceeding as he didn’t walk that far before stopping. Nightmare’s glare must be intense as I could feel it from here. Should I announce myself? Nightmare will understand why he should leave if he does.

“Ah” I started before Dream pushed my head into his shirt to muffle me.

“Achoo, oh dear, I think I already caught Dust’s cold” Dream faked, “I better go lie down before I get anybody else sick.”

That wasn’t a good fake as Nightmare started to growl. Dream shielded me as I heard a tentacle slam hard into the stairway breaking it into pieces. I’m sure it was the stairs in front of Dream thus preventing him from retreating.

“Get away from them!” Cross shouted at the door.

I couldn’t tell what was going on as the two started to fight. Dream started to put me down on the stairs while signaling for me to be quiet. He slowly pulled out his bow and shot arrows at Nightmare.

“Nightmare, one last time” Dream firmly spoke, “Just take Dust and leave.”

Nightmare tentacles wore swaying around with irritation. Cross was shifting himself to stand between Nightmare and Dream while avoiding blocking Nightmare view and path to Dust. Dream stood his ground with an arrow ready to go at a moment’s notice.

“Ah” I started as I felt a sneeze from the dust of the broken stairs.

Dream turn to me which was an opening with Nightmare. A tentacle swung and slammed into Dream and he flew to the bottom of the stairs. Cross went to attack Nightmare but a tentacle stabbed into his shoulder and pushed him back.

I sneezed loudly as I went to rub my nose hole. Looking at my gooey hand, I notice how thick the golden liquid was… oh… this was a magic nosebleed. I slowly felt the intense pressure that Nightmare’s aura had on the area now that Dream wasn’t next to me. It didn’t hurt my soul yet, but I felt my magic draining from forming an invisible shield around my soul.

“You seem so protective of whatever’s in that blanket” Nightmare growled, “I wonder what’ll happen if I damage it.”

That’s when I felt a stabbing sensation in my chest. My hand reached and touched the gooey substance as my mind attempted to process what had happened. The tentacle quickly retracted itself as if it realized what it had just stabbed. My bones rattle as I felt a burning sensation in my soul.

“Easter!” Dream shouted and wrapped his arms around me, “It’s going to be okay. Y-you’re going to be okay.”

Dream started using healing magic as Dream also trembles. Nightmare stared at us as he kept pushing a vengeful Cross away. A moment later, Nightmare picked up Dust and left the room. Cross didn’t give chance but stood at the door for a while before lowering his guard.

“How is she?” Cross asked as he came over.

Dream sniffled, “she’s going to be okay. She has to be okay.”

“Should I overwrite?” Cross asked as he lifted his hand.

Dream shook his head, “L-let’s get her to Medic’s first.”

My body was lifted and wrapped with the blanket as Dream kept up the healing magic. My vision grew hazy as I felt the blanket warm up in a sticky liquid. Dream tried talking to me as he headed to Medic’s AU but I couldn’t think of any coherent words to say.

Dream sent me a magic pulse… the same magic pulse he used whenever he asked me if I was okay back when I was in the womb. Swallowing, I tried to gather myself to send a return reply though that only made Dream’s bones go paler. He continues to use the same magic pulses, but it was more of a “you’re going to be okay” message.

“Medic” I made out Dream speaking but I had trouble understanding what was being said.

A moment later, I struggle to keep my sockets open as I stop sensing Dream’s magic pulses. Voices felt so distant, and my bones wore starting to grow cold. In a few moments, my reincarnation skill might activate… hopefully it’s intact enough to prevent issues.

Chapter Text

Dodging an attack, I noticed I was Error. I was fighting Ink right now… wait… I think I remember this one. I dodge again but fail to notice a trap as a bucket of magically charged paint rains down from above. My bones felt like they were on fire as Ink crackled like fire.

Once the fire paint had finished burning, Ink started slamming his brush into my rib cage. Each heavy blow cracked my ribs a bit more until they finally broke. My soul flared up in intense pain as the wooden pestle used the remaining of my ribs like a mortar. I knew it was only a matter of time before my HP would run out and my reincarnation skill would activate.

A blank stream pushes Ink away from me before being teleported in the same black mass. Nightmare was holding me now… it was more of a hug though. There were tears in his single eye… oh… this was right before I told Nightmare about my skill.

“Error please…” Nightmare cried out, “I don’t want to lose you.”

I reached up to touch his cheek. It felt like soft bone instead of the usual goop. Oh, he was becoming passive now and slowly lost his goop. He was also so tiny when he lost the cool layers of slime that coated his body.

“Easter?” A voice called out that seemed to move coordinated with Nightmare’s mouth.

Falling out of the memory, my current body had a light but heavy filling. Opening my sockets, I saw the white walls of a hospital. Feeling a warm bony hand wrap around my own, I slowly focus my sockets in that direction.

“Easter, thank the stars you're awake,” Cross told me.

I blinked in confusion. Looking across the room, I didn’t see anybody else. Why was Cross here holding my hand instead of Dream? Or Ink, but he isn’t much of a parent.

“How are you feeling?” Cross asked me, “Should I get Medic?”

Medic? Wait, why don’t my ribs hurt? Lifting the blankets off of me, I reached to look at my rib cage under the hospital gown. Cross grabbed both my hands and stop me from doing so.

“S-so, I take it that you're feeling, okay?” Cross stuttered.

I tilted my head in confusion. Why was Cross stopping me from checking on my wound? It’s not like he can stop me from looking forever.

“Okay, um… do you remember what happened?” Cross asked me.

I remember Nightmare stabbing me and Dream taking me to the hospital. Do I need to remember anything after that? Wait, did my reincarnation skill activate? How did you find me and take me back to the hospital after my skill activation?

“Easter um… you see…” Cross took a breath before saying, “No, I’ll just get Medic.”

Huh? What happened? What aren’t you saying to me?

Cross left the room as I stared with puzzlement. Shifting around the bed, I reached for my medical chart for some answers. Strange enough, there was no mention of broken bones. All it said was to keep an eye on my soul and magic flow. Looking at my ribs, all I saw wore the golden depressions along my ribs that normally came with this body… no wait, there were more lines than usual. Scaring?

“Easter, how are you feeling?” Medic said as he came in.

Cross was still outside as I saw him texting on his phone. Medic closed the door and went over to my side. He signals he wanted my chart as I handed it to him.

“I’m going to ask you a few simple yes or no questions, okay?” Medic explained as he attached a new page to my chart.

I nodded.

“Firstly, do you remember… an octopus?” Medic asked.

Nod.

“Do you know why the octopus was there?” Medic asked.

He was there for Dust, right? I nodded.

“He was there for a sick skeleton that happened to show up, correct?”

Another nod.

“Do you know why you wore rushed to the hospital?” Medic moved on.

I slowly nodded.

“Can you remember anything after that?” Medic had his pen ready for my response.

I shook my head. I passed out while Dream was getting Medic so… I can’t recall anything beyond that.

He scribbled a few words down, “Now, with your fingers on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being in tremendous pain, how much pain are you in?”

I thought for a moment before holding up my hand in a zero.

“That’s good,” Medic wrote it down, “Do you feel off in any way?”

Physically? No. I shook my head.

“I noticed you haven’t spoken a word” Medic told me, “Is there anything wrong with your voice?”

Huh? I haven’t said anything? Oh, I haven’t… No, I don't think there is anything wrong with my voice.

“I see…” Medic tapped his pen.

Cross came into the room, “I just texted her parents. How is she?”

“She’s fine,” Medic told him, “I assume, Dream is coming right away?”

Cross nervously glances away, “Dream is… I’ll check on him tonight.”

Huh? Dream is what? Why aren’t you guys telling me!?

“I’ll get started on Ink’s notes” Medic sighed, “If his skull wasn’t attached to his body…”

Medic walked out of the room while muttering to himself.

“Easter, do you want a story before Ink comes to pick you up?” Cross asked as he pulled out a book and a bear stuffed animal.

Okay… only because you guys don’t seem keen on explaining things to me.

Cross let me hold onto the bear as he started to read. It was about a silly bear trying to find honey. After he finished reading, Ink came into the room.

“Easter, wore you a good girl for Cross and Medic?” Ink asked me.

I nodded.

“Medic said he was going to write some notes for you,” Cross told him.

Ink held up a few pages, “I don’t understand them… but that’s why I asked Alter for help.”

“All because Alter is good with kids doesn’t mean he’s good with tutoring adults,” Cross told him.

“Who said that I’m legally an adult?” Ink sounded like he was joking but… I don’t think it’s a joke.

“I’ll ask Color and Outer if can check up on you later today” Cross sighed, “and I do mean you, Ink.”

“Oh, come on” Ink laughed, “I’m not that much trouble, right?”

Cross paused before saying, “I need to get back to Dream now. I’ll let him know that his little daffodil is doing okay.”

Cross pretended to pinch my cheek but didn’t put any real pressure into it. Cross said his goodbyes to me as he left me alone with Ink. Ink came over and asked if I wanted to piggyback ride.

“Oh Ink, don’t forget this bag” Medic said as he came into the room again.

Bag? I went over to look at it but Medic raise the bag so I couldn’t see inside. Ink nodded and took the bag from him as he looked inside to remember what it was.

“I think we have everything now” Ink stated, “Easter, it’s time to head home now, okay?”

I nodded as I kept my sockets on the bag. What was in there? It has to be answers if Medic didn’t want me to look at it.

“After you get her into a change of clothes” Medic stated, “those are hospital clothes after all.”

“Right, one new set of clothes” Ink said as he took out his paintbrush.

Medic left as Ink put down the bag to work on a new outfit. I finally had my chance to look inside the bag as I saw the torn clothes from what I was wearing to Epic’s house. There was also that charm that Dream had me wear. Strange… everything was covered in dust…

“Easter, come try this dress on,” Ink said as I turn away from the bag.

Chapter Text

Ink gave me a chocolate nice cream as soon as we got home. He even got the kind with little brownie pieces mixed into it and let me pour on some extra chocolate sauce. I’m still not sure about everything that happened but at least I can enjoy food right now.

“Ink, I’m here for a house visit” Outer hummed at the door, “Also, Color mentioned that there was a meeting in a few minutes.”

Ink gasp, “right, I’ll head right over um… Outer, keep an eye socket on Easter, will you?”

Outer didn’t have a chance to reply as Ink left quickly. I just continue to eat my nice cream as Outer settled down next to me. He had a strange gift-like bag with him… wait, was that a gift? Was there more chocolate in it?

“Easter, somebody told me you had a really rough time in the hospital” Outer hummed, “Are you feeling better now?”

I nodded as I was feeling okay right now.

“That’s good” Outer smiled, “I also heard that you fell in love with a show about puppets.”

Huh? Did Cross or Epic tell you that? Because I'm sure Dream would have said, "She wants to make puppets with Ink," assume they had a chat.

“So, I got you a gift for returning from the hospital” Outer stated, “We’ll open it after you eat your nice cream and clean up.”

I quickly ate my nice cream after hearing that. Soon a strange headache filled my skull as I whined. Outer laughed and stated that I should slow down. After I finish my snack, Outer took me to the sink to wash up.

“Are you ready for your present now?” Outer asked me.

I nodded as I reached for the gift. Outer handed it to me and watched as I pulled the transparent paper out. Inside was… a pair of puppets?

One was a skeleton hand puppet with a yellow flower and a violet star in their eye sockets. Golden fabric to be imagined as hair was on their skull as I lightly pulled on it to make sure it was sewn on tightly. It also had a midnight purple blouse… or was it a dress? It’s hard to tell when hand puppets don’t have legs.

The other was also a skeleton hand puppet in a sailor outfit. It was white with blue trim and tiny suns for buttons. It also had green to yellow stars in its sockets that were shaded by a visor on his hat.

“Do you like them?” Outer asked me.

I hugged Outer tightly as I loved the puppets already. Wait, why did one of them have golden hair? Oh, that was a mini-me? Then who was the second-hand puppet of?

“Aw, I’m glad you like them,” Outer hugged back.

Putting the mini-me on one of my hands, I decided Outer should play as the other puppet. Outer smiled and put the puppet in his hand. I watched as the puppet slowly came to life on his hand as he put it on, and I let out a small giggle.

“Hi there, is somebody having a good day?” The puppet on Outer’s hand spoke.

I lifted my hand puppet, “Chocolate!”

“That’s great,” Outer’s puppet replied, “do you want to play anything right now?”

Thinking for a bit, I answered with, “Tea party.”

It was a bit of an old habit of mine to have tea parties with my puppets in my past life. Blueberry would join in as it gave him some time to vent about his Papyrus in the safety of the anti-void. I think I invited Nightmare to one? Yeah, he actually joined in with Blueberry’s complaints about how terrible brothers are.

“Okay, um… where is the tea set?” Outer spoke with more of his own voice.

I took Outer to the living area and pulled out the box from a cupboard. At the coffee table, I took out plastic plates and put fancy plastic cups on top of them. To the side, I put the matching kettle.

“So, can I ask some questions about Easter?” Outer’s puppet asked after Outer pretended to pour some tea.

I nodded.

“What is Easter’s favorite color?” Outer’s puppet started with.

“White” I had my puppet chirp.

Outer’s puppet nodded, “I like space but that’s not much of a single color. Um… what’s your favorite animal?”

“Stab horse,” my puppet answered quickly.

“Stab horse?” Outer’s puppet tilted his head, “What is that?”

“A horse that’s stabbed in face” my puppet replied.

Outer’s puppet nodded, “Oh a unicorn. They are pretty neat though, right?”

“Yes,” I agreed with the puppet.

“Does Easter have a favorite AU?” Outer’s puppet then asked.

“Outertale” is my puppet’s answer.

“Aw, you flatter me,” Outer said with his own voice before asking with the puppet’s, “Why do you like Outertale?”

“Stars” I hummed with the puppet, “stars amazing.”

“They are indeed” Outer’s puppet nodded, “all those tiny balls of gas burning all those distinct colors…”

Outer started to ramble as I had my puppet drink some tea.

“... plus there is one nebula that reminds me of Killer’s soul, which is super adorable…” Outer stated in his ramble.

I pause. Did he just say that? He just admitted to a child that he liked Killer’s soul and called it adorable? Bad move if I wasn’t on Nightmare’s side. For all Outer should know, I’m just Dream’s kid. He should expect Dream to at least tell me what “bad skeletons” look like and their names.

“Huh, did I say something weird?” Outer asked after rambling a bit more.

I looked around the room before having my puppet ask, “So Outer likes Color and Killer, right?”

Outer blushed as he noticed his mistake, “A-ah, s-sorry forget I s-said anything.”

I thought for a bit before having my puppet ask, “Is Killer happy?”

“Y-yeah he is” Outer was glancing around as if looking for a listening device.

“Don’t worry, Easter keeps secrets” I had the puppet say.

Outer paused before saying, “I don’t know how I feel about letting a kid keep such a big secret.”

“Uncle Taco says Easter good with quiet,” my puppet told him.

“Easter um…” Outer started but stopped as he heard talking nearby.

I got up and went over to see Ink and Color talking. The meeting must be over now. I rushed over to Ink’s side.

“Père,” I had the puppet say, “Puppets, puppets!”

“Oh, I was wondering what Outer had been sewing” Color brought up, “Seems like you really like them.”

I nodded, “Puppets.”

“Wait, puppets? Was there more than one?” Ink asked me.

I nodded, “Tea party, Outer has other.”

“She had a wonderful time talking with me” Outer stated as he handed me the secondary puppet, “How did the meeting go?”

“It was tiring” Ink sighed, “So many complaints and… wait, what happened again?”

Color spoke up, “Just the usual demands to find Blueberry… don’t really see how we’re supposed to find him if signs point to…”

Color stopped as he saw me. Huh? What do the signs point to? Blueberry’s not dead… is he? I do hope he’s safe with the gang.

“So, Easter, does he have a name?” Ink asked, pointing to the second puppet.

I paused for a bit as Ink asked me the question. Let’s see… star… nebula… galaxy… no, these names are not good. Looking around for names, I tried to think of something. Seeing a strange wooden board covered in painted circles, I picked it up as if it were like the stray sky on the wrong background.

“Oh, his name is Palette?” Ink asked me.

I paused as I looked at the board before nodding. Palette means lots of colors like the sky, right? That’s a good name for the puppet then.

“Aw” Ink cooed, “That’s a wonderful name. You know… he could be your imaginary brother. He does have mama’s looks after all.”

I looked at the puppet in thought. I guess he does have Dream’s looks but… Do I want a brother? Blueberry really doesn’t like his brother and Nightmare, while I don’t think he hates Dream, does seem to say a lot of bad stuff about him. I think I vaguely recall having a brother from before I was Error but… those memories are too hazy for me to recall what he was like. I just get this pain in my soul with those fuzzy memories whenever I try killing a Papyrus though… maybe…

“You don’t have to think that hard about it” Ink ruffled my hair, “Just keep that in mind down the line.”

“Speaking of brothers,” Outer said as his phone went off, “I think mine is calling me.”

He is? But your phone says Nebby on it… wait, Nebby is like Nebula, and he said that Killer’s soul looked like… Okay, I’ll say nothing on the matter.

“Nebby, I was just finishing up,” Outer said as he answered the phone and walked out of the area.

“Tell Nebby I’ll be coming over for supper later,” Color told him.

“I will, Cotton Candy” Outer pecked Color’s mouth before leaving completely.

“Since somebody likes puppets so much” Ink started before offering, “Does somebody want to learn how to make even more puppets?”

I smiled before saying with the Easter puppet, “Yes please.”

“Slow down, cowboy” Color told Ink, “We need to go over Medic’s notes and if Cross sent me the right schedule, it’s time for Easter’s nap time.”

“Spoilsport” Ink and my puppet said at the same time.

Gross, did I just say something in sync with Ink of all skeletons?

Chapter Text

“Easter, guess what’s coming up?” Ink asked me.

I tilted my head.

“Christmas!” Ink shouted.

Christmas? Oh, you mean that time of year that Nightmare experiences the most emotional shifts. One second he seems okay, the next second he demands us to go cause trouble. It has something to do with the wide swings of emotions that this time of year brings.

“So, I got a recipe for sugar cookies” Ink showed me, “do you want to make some and decorate them for everybody?”

I nodded as I didn’t have anything better to do. Plus, it’ll help them think that I’m a normal sweet girl that could in no way be the evil Error in any which way. I just hope Ink asked for oven help as I’m sure he’ll forget to set a timer and start a kitchen fire.

“Let’s start by getting you in a little apron… oh, we need to finger paint your apron!” Ink gasped as he started to paint a tan piece of cloth and pulled out the finger painting for kids set, “here we go, one apron-tablier.”

I frowned as I knew this was going to be messy. Putting on Palette hand puppet onto my hand, I went to argue but… Ink looked excited about today… Plus if I throw a fit now… I might get thank-you chocolates for the sugar cookies later. Fine, I’ll play along.

I put my hand into the blue jar first. It was cold and wet along with my fingers. I spread it across the apron as I wanted a night sky. It was spotty as I used my fingers and pieces of the apron’s fabric still showed through.

Taking the yellow next, I painted the center first and tried to blend it out. It wasn’t just like stars, but it looked just like how the night sky appeared to me with my blurry vision from my last life. I did the same thing with a few more paintings as stars come in a lot of assorted colors. I hummed with amusement as I finished and signaled to Ink I was done.

“Aw, it’s the night sky, right?” Ink asked me.

I nodded.

“Can you sign your artwork?” Ink asked me, “so everybody knows that Vincent Van Gogh herself painted this Starry Night.”

Who? Guess they must be artsy people.

I took the red paint and starter to write “Err-” I mean “Easter '' onto it. Great, now it looked like the two names were overlapping each other… all well, Ink can’t expect a kid to have perfect handwriting… right?

“Now, while it dries,” Ink started as he hung it up on a hanger, “Let’s go wash up and see if we have everything, we need for sugar cookies.”

Ink picked me up as I noticed something off. Ink remembers that we’re going to make sugar cookies without looking at his scarf… He must really, really, want to do creative activities that I’ll agree to. His scarf even still has a “make puppets” circle in red despite the fact he set up a sewing room that I’ve been sneaking into at night.

After handwashing, Ink had me fetch ingredients out of the cupboard. Ink pulled out a box of cookie cutters and strange metal bits and plastic cones that Ink said were for decorating the cookies. By this point, the apron had dried, and Ink made sure it was tied on properly onto me.

“Is the little chief ready?” Ink asked me.

I nodded happily as Ink put me back down.

“Let’s start with the flour” Ink told me and read the cup amount.

I pulled over the huge bag of flour and um… this looks like monster dust… are you sure it’s flour? Where was Horror to confirm what this fluffy dust was? Maybe I could taste it?

“What’s wrong?” Ink asked me, “Is the color white bothering you too?”

I decided to ignore that detail as I added the cups of flour into a large bowl. It wasn’t long before we had everything measured out and it was time to mix. Holding the wooden spoon, I stirred the stiffing sticky dough.

“Ink, I heard you were going to make cookies today” Outer chirped as he came in.

“Yeah, we’re mixing the dough,” Ink stated.

I waved with a powdery sticky hand before pointing to my apron.

Outer gasp, “Is that Outertale’s sky? Aw, so many stars. Did you paint this?”

I nodded proudly.

“Wow, you’re a little artist already” Outer pulled out his phone and took a photo, “so cute. So, is the little artist ready to roll out this cookie dough and cut out some fun shapes?”

Outer helped me roll out the dough evenly as Ink picked out the cookie cutters. I grabbed the star first, followed by a Gyftrot shaped cookie cutter and then… a square with bunny ears?

“That’s a Christmas present,” Outer told me seeing my confusion, “This is Santa's sleigh, this is a Christmas tree, a stalking, a bell, snowflake, skeleton snow-angel, and a gingerbread skeleton.”

Oh, so that’s what they are. Outer and Ink helped use all the cookie dough for cookie shapes and slide them into a hot oven. It was a lot of work as Ink wanted to make a lot of cookies, but we eventually finished.

“Ink, I can watch the oven while you help Easter with washing her hands” Outer stated much to my relief.

Ink nodded, “there should be space in the fridge to put the cookies into so they can chill faster.”

Another handwashing later, we return to the kitchen to make the frosting. We started with a huge batch before Ink separated them into a ton of small bowls that got not-paint food-color drops to them. Ink filled the cones with the colored sugar syrup and made sure the metal tips wore in place as he cut the tips of the cones.

“Are the cookies ready to paint?” Ink asked Outer.

Outer nodded as he put down a tray of slightly chilled cookies on the counter. Ink held my hands as I started to squeeze the cones so the cookies could be colored. Outer picked up Ink’s camera and took some photos as Ink stated he needed more Christmas photos.

“There we go, the last cookie” Ink stated as we finished.

I yawned from all the challenging work.

“We’ll let them sit before handing them out” Ink stated, “let’s get you a nap before we do, okay?”

Chapter Text

“Hey everybody,” Ink told the crowd, “Easter wanted to make all of you something sweet for the holidays, so we made some cookies.”

Everybody sounded excited to get free food as they all told me "Thank you" and that they tasted great. I smiled and pretended to like my head being petted so they’ll be more likely to give me chocolates later. A few of them pinched my cheek but not too many.

“Oh look, Dream’s here” Ink hummed.

Wait, mama’s home?! I looked to the front doors to see Dream and Cross coming in. I rushed over to Dream. Reaching my arms up, I expected a hug but… Dream ignored me. He walked past me without even looking at me… what?

“Easter, I heard somebody made cookies for everybody,” Cross said as he patted my head, “Can I have one?”

I nodded and grabbed Cross’s hand to pull him over to the trays of cookies. He took a bite and chewed the cookie before he said it was good while patting my head. I wonder if he’ll get me the expensive chocolate later if he really thinks they were good.

“Now that snack time is out of the way,” Cross said as he finished the cookie, “How’s Easter?”

I softly shifted the Easter puppet on my hand, “No scawys during nap today.”

“So that means you’re doing good, right?” Cross clarified.

I nodded with the puppet, “How’s papa bear?”

A few skeletons stopped talking and suddenly stared at us. Oh… I’m not supposed to call Cross that in front of people. However, it’ll show Dream that I’m really confused about his ignoring me earlier. So… I guess it’s all good either way?

“Papa Bear is doing okay today,” Cross told me.

“Is Papa Bear still taking care of Mama?” the puppet asked.

“Yes, and your Mama is getting better,” Cross replied.

I nervously asked with my puppet, “Why did mama ignore Easter earlier?”

Cross took a deep breath, “Well… let’s not talk about that…”

Why? What happened? Does Dream know who I really am? Do you know?

“Cross,” Dream said from across the room, “we have a meeting to get to.”

Cross patted my head one last time, “I have to go now, but we can talk later.”

The puppet stated, “See you later.”

Cross left as I stood where I was. That is until someone grabbed my wrist, that the puppet was on, and lifted me off the ground. An orange sweater struck fear into me as I knew who this was.

“Do you really know who that skeleton is?” Stretch asked with venom in his voice.

H-hold on, I thought Fatal Error destroyed Blueberry’s AU… Did Stretch somehow survive? How? Did Ink recover his AU somehow? Maybe Stretch somehow escaped before Fatal Error destroyed the place?

“He used to fight against your dear mama, you know,” Stretch told me.

Oh, I know…

“So why did you call him “papa”? Are you also a spy for the gang?” Stretch asked.

Of course, an idiot like him would think Cross was a spy. Stretch is as stubborn as they come even after Blueberry tried to explain everything to him. Is he… trying to “set me straight” about how to behave around Cross or was he threatening me as a suspect for some numbskull idea in his head?

Stretch shifted his other hand as I spotted the glass of a bottle in his pocket as he spoke, “I’ll take your silence as a yes.”

I looked to where Cross went for help, but I couldn’t spot him in the crowd… in fact, the crowd seemed to be ignoring or ignorant to what Stretch was doing. If only Blueberry was here… he’ll do something about this… right?

The next thing I knew was Stretch lowered me but pinned my arm against the table. He lifted the glass bottle from his pocket as he prepared to strike. I froze and closed my sockets as I knew he was going to hurt me. Just like Blueberry…

A loud shatter as pain burst in my hand. The room went silent as I tried to curl up from the pain. Stretch still had his firm grip on me as I assume he was going for another strike. Where was Blueberry when you need him? Where was Cross… or anybody that could put a stop to this?

“Papyrus” a voice croaked out, “Why?”

I turned to see a Blueberry but with gooey bones. He had all sorts of wounds across his body as I slowly recognized them as wounds Stretch inflicted on Blueberry. Did… did my magic… make him? Was he a dream fragment?

“Why did you hurt me so many times?” The not-blueberry asked in a wounded voice.

Stretch finally let me go as he backed up and glared at the monster. I pulled my arm close to my body as I crawled under the table for shelter. I ignored Stretch and not-Blueberry’s chat as I looked over my wrist. I’ll need to wash the puppet and stitch it up later… though I should be more worried about the pieces of glass in my bones, I wondered how things will play out between Stretch and the dream fragment.

I peeked out from under the tablecloth and saw Stretch firing bones at the not-Blueberry. Each one missed as the dream fragment seemed to have access to teleportation magic. With every dodge, the not-Blueberry would talk about each wound he’s gotten in detail.

This… this was bad. I’m quite sure everybody here knew that this not-Blueberry came from my magic. It’s going to draw attention towards me… and not the kind I’ll like. These monsters will side with Stretch and think I was spreading lies or something… They’ll hurt me just like Stretch… There is no way that the room of skeletons will believe me…

Stretch locked his sockets on me as I froze. He summons his next attack in my direction but that’s when the not-Blueberry brought out a Gaster Blaster. The two seemed to have a stand-off about what’ll happen next.

“Easter?” I heard Outer ask as he bent down near my hiding spot.

I slowly crawled out as I knew Outer would take my side… or at least not rush to conclusions. Outer pulled me into a hug as he quickly scooped me up. He didn’t say another word as he took me away from the foyer and into one of the hallways.

I heard the fight continue between Stretch and not-Blueberry, but I didn’t want to risk looking. Outer eventually put me down in one of the bathrooms and looked towards my wrist. The first thing he did was take photos… was he going to send them on the multi-web?

After that, he started to take out the shards of glass. It hunted as I went to bite my shirt for comfort. Once he was done, he took a cotton ball and put a clear liquid on it before dabbing it on my bones. It stung like the stuff Nightmare would use on me after my scuffles with Ink. Nightmare said… it was for cleaning wounds.

“Stretch is a very scary skeleton… isn’t he?” Outer started as he started to wrap my wrist up with a bandage, “and very mean for hurting you like this.”

I nodded.

“So… did you use your magic by accident?” Outer asked.

Another nod as I looked away.

“No, you’re not in trouble Easter” Outer softly placed his hand on my cheek as I could look back at him, “We’re just going over what happened.”

I looked down as I wasn’t comfortable still.

“So that um… Uncle Taco you made” Outer started, “Was there any truth behind that?”

I nodded.

“Did you ever see Stretch hurt your Uncle Taco?” Outer asked.

I froze as I couldn’t give him a full answer. If I tell the truth, it wasn’t as Easter and… but if I lie… Outer might think I was told a fake story. W-why can’t Blueberry be here and sort this out?

“It’s okay” Outer told me, “Color will investigate Stretch personally. We’ll make sure Stretch doesn’t hurt any other precious cinnamon rolls.”

I slowly nodded.

“Now let’s wash your puppet and get it to the puppet hospital, okay?” Outer said as I handed him my puppet.

Outer gently ran icy water over the puppet as he gently rubbed the unwanted dye out. Color came by and hug Outer from behind. The two shared whispers about what had happened as I stared at my puppet.

Color eventually lowered himself down to my level and brushed my hair, “Does Easter want a sleepover at Outer’s place?”

Seeing that skeletons are prone to gossiping, it might be best to stay at their place until things calm down. I still don’t know how others will react let alone do to me as a result. Besides, if I’m at Outer’s house, I can see Killer. Maybe even talk to Nightmare about what had happened if he stops by…

I nodded as Color pulled out his phone.

“I need to tell your dad,” Color told me, “Outer, can you help Easter pack things?”

Outer nodded, “Of course, how long?”

“Seeing the commotion outside, I think you have plenty of times to patch her puppet and casually pack,” Color told him.

"I meant how many days" Outer snickered.

Color glanced at me before telling Outer, "Make it a week..."

Cross knocked at the door before saying, "I just heard, is Easter, okay?"

"Nothing that a few stitches and healing magic can't fix," Outer told him.

"Cross, while I know you're not her legal parent but um..." Color nervously started, "Easter said she would like to stay at Outer's place until things calm down around here. Is that okay with you?"

Cross looked at Color a bit nervously before turning to me, "Easter, are you asking to take a break from other skeletons?"

I nodded.

"Alright, but remember to wear that charm your mama gave you," Cross told me, "And don't hesitate to wake Outer up if you had a scary sleep, okay?"

Another nod.

Chapter Text

The second I went through the portal; I noticed the stars above me. The once blurred lighting now looks like crystal-clean sparkles in the sky. My eye lights got lost in the sky as my mind slowly went blank.

“Pretty, isn’t it” Outer hummed.

I lifted my good hand with the Palette puppet, “Easter says love staws.”

“This is your first time seeing them in person, right?” Outer asked me.

“Yes,” Palette puppet told Outer.

Outer let me stand and stare. My eyes filled with liquids as I recalled my old memories and now. So much has changed… I was Error the last time I was here… Who would I be the next time to visit?

“Easter, are you okay?” Outer asked me.

I stated with my Palette puppet, “Easter wants to visit the sky many times.”

Outer smiled, “I’ll try asking your folks if this can be your vacation home.”

“Please…” Palette softly told him.

“Is Easter ready to come inside and organize your things?” Outer asked as he started to stand up.

I nodded and lifted my injured hand so he could guide me to the door. If he didn’t, I fear, I’ll get lost in the stars and end up elsewhere. Outer was gentle in his grip as he guided me to the door.

Inside, the house smelled of vanilla. Looking around, there are ceramic incense burners with waterfall patterns. A jar of vanilla cones for these burners was next to the burners.

“Let’s start with a house tour,” Outer told me, “This is the foyer, and over there is the dining table with the kitchen next to it.”

I nodded as this house had a familiar setup to most Sans’ houses.

“Now heading upstairs, we have the master bedroom,” Outer told me, “That’s where I sleep along with Color and Killer.”

Guess since Outer knew that I knew about Killer, he was okay with saying his name casually around me.

“Next we have the bathroom,” Outer told me, “Let me know if you need any help with washing your hair or if you need any bath toys.”

I nodded.

“Lastly we have the baby room, but you’ll be using it as a guest room,” Outer told me as he opened the door.

It had cranes with white bundles painted on the navy-blue walls. The ceiling was a piece of the sky with swirls of stars and stardust clouds. I wonder if Outer used glow-in-the-dark paint as Outer went to hang up my outfits.

“Easter help,” the Palette puppet told him as I went over to my bag and pulled out one of my shirts.

Outer smiled, “Thanks Easter.”

“I’ll get started on dinner then” Color started as I had forgotten he came with us.

“Make sure to text Nebby first” Outer hummed.

Color nodded, “yeah, we wouldn’t want to surprise him.”

Outer and I finished hanging the clothes as Color went to prepare dinner. We also put the rest of the items away as Outer rambled about why he was putting them where. I followed along until I heard the front door open.

“Ah, that must be Killer” Outer hummed as he finishes putting things away.

I looked through the railing of the second floor as Outer went down the stairs. A familiar glowing target soul and blackened tear streaks told me that this was indeed Killer. The skeleton was greeted with a hug from Color first as Outer went to join with a kiss on the cheek. Yep, Killer is loved here.

“So, I heard we had a tiny guest?” Killer asked after the greeting.

I went down the stairs and came over. Killer stared at me for a moment as if debating something. Reaching up for a hug, Killer seemed surprised by my movement before taking a step back.

“Killer, this is Easter” Color decided to introduce, “Easter this is Killer.”

“Color, she’s… you’re sure she won’t tell anybody about um…” Killer nervously asked Color.

“Don’t worry,” Outer told Killer, “She’s more interested in happiness than tattle-telling.”

“So, she’s a mini-Dream… great” Killer rubbed the back of his neck.

Guess it’ll take a while to warm up to Killer. I don’t blame him for being cautious since I was his boss’s niece. Who knows what Nightmare might have told him about me… though it was most likely “don’t hurt her” based on what happened back at Epic’s house.

“Anyways, dinner is ready,” Color told us.

Tonight’s supper was Mac and cheese with little… hot dogs? Yeah, those wore chopped-up hot dogs. A side of steamed broccoli and orange juice filled out the rest of the meal. Outer helped me dish up as the counter was a bit too tall for me. He put it down on the table and asked if I needed a booster seat. I shook my head as I crawled onto the chair.

The first thing I did was separate my noodles and hot dogs. I layered the sliced hot dogs to the side as I organized my plate of food. I didn’t try eating from my plate until everybody sat down.

“Easter, do you not like hot dogs?” Outer asked me.

I shook my head and lifted my Palette puppet, “Easter likes to eat this way.”

Killer mixed his broccoli with his Mac and cheese as if to challenge my eating habit. I saw Color lightly jab Killer but the two didn’t say anything on the matter as we started to eat. First to eat should be the broccoli, then I’ll eat the Mac before finishing with the hot dogs.

“So how was work, Nebby?” Outer asked.

“The usual laying around and making sure Nightmare doesn’t stay in his office all day” Killer sighed, “For a boss, it feels like we’re all taking care of him…”

Guess Nightmare was depressed over hurting me.

“Well, today Outer help Easter make some sugar cookies,” Color told Killer, “I manage to save you some for you if you want to taste them.”

Killer nodded as he poked his food, “I’ll keep that in mind.”

I lifted my puppet, “the cookies wore safe?”

Color nodded, “Not all of them, but at least one tray was left untouched after the fight.”

Killer sockets widen, “there was a fight?!”

“Stretch picked a fight” Outer explained, “That’s why Easter is staying with us for a bit.”

“Oh… does that mean the others will finally look into him?” Killer asked.

“I don’t think the others can ignore what happen” Color stated, “and I’m taking a personal interest in the investigation. I trust that Dust still has those videos and photos?”

“He should, why?” Killer responded.

Color nodded, “I can explain what happen in detail later.”

Killer blinked a few times before returning to his meal.

“Food is good,” I told Color with my puppet.

“Yes, it is” Outer smiled, “thanks for cooking Color.”

“Thanks, Color” Killer told him.

After eating, Outer helps me put my dishes into the dishwasher. Killer was watching me as I wonder what was going through his skull. Color distracted Killer with a kiss before whispering something.

“TV, Puppets?” I asked with the Palette puppet.

“Okay, but only for a while,” Outer told me, “Then it’s time to get ready for bed.”

Outer turn the tv on and change the channel to the kids. A ram puppet popped up on the screen as it asked us to go on some sort of adventure. I stared at the screen in delight as I heard Color and Killer stepping outside to talk. Getting lost in the show, I watch a bull puppet and a goat-fish puppet talk to the ram puppet.

Suddenly I was aware of somebody standing behind me as something tried to pick me up. Confused and panicked by the sudden presents, I pushed myself to the left and went for a leg sweep. The skeleton that was behind me fell forward and onto their face. Wait, was Killer trying to pick me up?

“I’ll get you for that” Killer growled, and he turned to pounce on me.

I yelped as Killer pinned me down. W-was he trying to fight me now? Was he upset that I dodged him?

“Killer, gentle” Outer spoke up.

Killer gave an annoyed sigh before, “Here comes the tickle darkener.”

The next thing I knew it Killer startled to tickle me. I couldn’t help but burst into laughter as Killer continued tickling. After what felt like ages, I lightly battered Killer to signal that it was time to stop. Killer didn’t until I lightly kicked him in the ribs by accident. He took the signal and backed away.

“Easter, are you ready to get ready for bed now?” Outer asked me.

I lifted my puppet, “Okay.”

Chapter Text

I shot up as I woke from a nightmare. Rubbing my sockets, I notice how wet they are… wait, this isn’t my room… Did Ink paint it again?

Looking at my door, I remember I was at Outer’s house when I saw a glowing target peeking through. Killer was watching me as I wonder if I was sleep talking moments ago. Slowly getting out of bed, I went up to Killer. I reached up signaling I wanted comfort from the nightmare.

“Um… Outer better with comfort than I am” Killer told me.

I don’t care, you’re up, so you can comfort me. Tugging on Killer’s shirt with my demand, he took a step back from the surprise movement. He froze for a moment before giving up and picking me up. It was a bit rough as if he weren’t sure if he was holding a bar of soap or a fragile vase.

“Now, um… you wore tossing and turning… what happened?” Killer asked me.

I pointed to my hand that had gotten injured by Stretch.

Killer looked to it, “Oh so that’s the hand that Color said that had gotten scratches.”

I nodded.

“So, you had a nightmare about what happened…” Killer worded out before saying, “You know Color is on the case and he’ll make sure that it won’t happen again.”

That doesn't solve the nightmare.

Killer sighed, “Fine, we can sleep on the couch… I’ll make sure nobody sneaks up on you.”

After being carried down the stairs, Killer tried to set me down. I huffed and kept a grip on Killer’s jacket. Killer looked at me with confusion before sitting down and letting me stay on his lap.

“You sure are stubborn…” Killer muttered.

Laying my head on Killer’s shoulder, I yawned. This reminded me of the nights where the gang would dogpile on top of each other for comfort during the stormy nights. I wonder how the others are doing…

The next thing I knew, I was waking up. Guess I had fallen asleep in Killer’s lap in mere moments. Though now I was laying on some skeleton’s chest… Killer must have adjusted himself to get comfier for sleep.

“Come on Killer” Outer started from elsewhere in the room, “this shows that you are good with kids.”

“No, she couldn’t even stay awake for ten seconds” Killer replied from under me.

“That goes to show that she trusts you to keep her safe” Outer replied, “Look, she’s in dreamland instead of having another nightmare.”

Killer’s hand rubs my back as he spoke, “I guess so…”

“So… why was Killer checking up on Easter in the middle of the night?” Color spoke up with a teasing tone in his voice.

Killer stiffen, “I was um… I wanted to work on something, and I heard her sleep talking.”

“Work on something?” Outer hummed, “Well, either way, she looks relaxed and comfy.”

“Yep” Color also hummed, “I was quite surprised to see she took quite a liking to you.”

“Shut up” Killer sounded flustered.

Rubbing my socket, I gave a yawn. Finally opening my sockets, I started to smell something good. Was Color making pancakes?

“Good morning, sunshine,” Outer told me, “It’s almost time for breakfast.”

Summoning my tongues, a bit of drool comes out of my mouth.

“EW!” Killer quickly shot up, “Did you really have to slobber?”

“Killer, it’s not like she soaked your shirt” Outer lightly flicked his head.

Killer huffed as he almost shoved me off. I huffed also and clung to his shirt again. The second Killer glared at me, I decided to let go and not to push it. Besides, it looks like Color had the first batch of pancakes made.

At the table, Color gave me pancakes and poured a small amount of chocolate syrup. I attempted to grab the bottle as I wanted more but Color shook his head and told me that I shouldn’t drown my pancakes in chocolate. Not seeing a window of opportunity for more chocolate, I decided to eat what was on my plate.

“So, Color, you’re heading with Killer to see Dust about the investigation” Outer started as if sorting out all the details.

“Yes, afterward, I’m heading to the council to interrogate Stretch” Color stated, “he should come out the second he sees the evidence.”

“I’m going to stay at the base after that” Killer stated.

“In that case… I’ll have playtime with Easter in the morning” Outer hummed, “After lunch, I’ll take Easter out to the playground. We’ll come back for nap time then… see if we can have a bit of a magic lesson.”

After eating, Color and Killer got ready to head out as Outer helped me get dressed and brushed my hair. Outer shared many kisses with Color and Killer for their farewell as I waved them goodbye. After they left, Outer petted my head and asked for a game we should play.

I picked up my puppets and gave Outer the Easter puppet. I put the Palette puppet in my hand as I wondered about the game. The answer seemed clear but… Outer might find it repetitive…

“Tea party,” Palette asked for.

Outer nodded, “good thing I got a tea set. I haven’t opened it yet though.”

During the tea party, Outer seemed more focused on education than an actual chat this time. He counted the number the imaginary sugar cubes and was using larger words in his conversation. I followed along as we talked about the weather.

“Goodness, is that the time?” Outer stated as he checked his phone, “Does Easter want some teatime for herself while Outer cooks, or does Easter want to help Outer make lunch?”

“Easter makes chocolate?” Palette asked.

“Oh, what if we go out and put our tea conversation to the test at Grillby’s?” Outer asked, “I think they have chocolate volcano cakes, and we can split one after you eat a healthy lunch.”

“Easter eat vegi?” Palette confirmed.

“Yes, Outer would love it if Easter ate all her vegetables” Outer nodded, “Grillby cut his carrots to look like stars, isn’t that yummy?”

I smiled as Palette stated, “Easter wants to eat the sky.”

"I think you'll love his chicken pot pie than" Outer hummed, "It looks like the whole galaxy inside of a simple pie dish."

"Yes please," Palette stated as I drooled.

Chapter Text

“Killer, can you take Easter outside for some exercise?” Outer asked as he finished brushing my hair the next day.

Killer glance at me than Outer, “You want me to teach her to fight?”

“No, just… how about a simple game of tag?” Outer asked.

“So simple traps?” Killer asked.

“No traps, only running and staying within each other’s site” Outer clarified.

Killer folded his arms as if in thought. Was he thinking about how to play tag the non-gang way? I remember Killer used to challenge me… Error to sparing but it involved a lot of traps and magic skills. Killer had speed so without the use of my strings, this is going to be a one-sided game.

“Alright, Easter, I don’t think those tiny legs are fast but let’s see if you can catch me” Killer bluntly told me.

“Killer, make sure she can get a few tags in” Outer stated, “and don’t tag back right away.”

Killer sighed, “Right…”

“Also, if anybody stops to chat, does explain that she’s your niece and that we’re babysitting her” Outer hummed.

Killer nodded as he opened the door, “Easter, are you coming?”

I nodded as I went up to him.

“Oh, Easter” Outer stopped me, “I know you love your puppet, but can you leave Palette here while you play?”

I looked at my hand and slowly nodded to take the fabric off and set it on the table. Outer patted my head and made sure my shoes were tied nicely on my feet so I wouldn’t trip on them. Outside, Killer was staring at me as if waiting for the first move.

As predicted, the second I started to run after Killer, he was already a few feet away from me. Outer just wanted me to get my bones moving, right? Guess I must try to pace myself. Though that’s easier said than done as Ink and Dream hardly took me outside to run.

“Wow, they must have kept you inside all the time” Killer noted aloud.

Killer stay put after he spoke so I could catch up for a tag. I huffed as I knew Killer decided that any effort was too much for my tiny bones. As soon as I tag, I turn around to run but… where should I run to? I don’t know this area and…

“Tired already?” Killer asked.

No, I’m simply confused about where to head off to. I don’t know where the cliffs are in this area. Besides, you’ll just catch me in two seconds unless I produce a plan.

“In that case…” Killer tagged me back, “Guess we’re doing round two?”

No fair, Outer told you not to tag back right away!

“What’s that’s what staying in one place for too long gets you” Killer replied as he went off.

No, I’m not chasing you again. You’ll just end up staying in a place like last time. If the area is unknown to me then… emotional tactics are needed. Wait… Killer isn’t the type to respond to crying monster… not in the way one will expect anyway. Ug, how to get the better of him.

Wait, if I pretend to get hurt, he’ll be forced to get into arm’s reach. If he ignores me, Outer might get upset for allowing me to get hurt during a simple game. So. um… I just need to make a convincing trip.

“I can tell you’re planning something” Killer folded his arms, “Didn’t Outer ask for a simple game of tag?”

He asked you for a simple tag game. Outer didn’t tell me anything. Besides, the handicap he gave was for you, not me. Ha, your rules don’t apply to me.

I started to chase after him and waited for when Killer seemed like he forgot about earlier. That’s when I pretended to trip and fall forward. Killer stopped running but didn’t come towards me as expected.

“So that was your plan,” Killer told me, “Too bad, that’s not going to work on me.”

I huffed as I sat up to glare at him.

“No, that fake nosebleed isn’t going to work either” Killer stated.

Nosebleed? I touched my face and noticed it was a magic nosebleed. Strange… I didn’t fall on my face… The last time this happened was back when… Nightmare?

“Killer” I heard a voice called out, “I didn’t expect seeing you out here playing a children’s game.”

“Abyss,” Killer growled, “What are you doing here?”

Abyss? W-what if he tells Dream or Ink that Killer was here and with me? That could end up hurting Color and Outer that they allowed me to get close with Killer assuming they don’t find out about the relationship.

“I’ve come to discuss an idea we had with Outer… and Color if he’s not busy” Abyss stated.

We? I wanted to turn around to look, but then they’ll see my magic nosebleed as assume the worst. I should just get back to the house and tell Outer that unexpected guests is here. Besides… a fight might break out again like with what happened at Epic’s house.

“Oh really? What sort of idea do you have?” Killer asked back.

“How to make a truce with Nightmare while Fatal Error is loose” Abyss explained, “I’m sure it’ll interest you, seeing how close you’ve been getting to Outer and Color.”

Wait, Abyss knows?! Did he find out that information from his book? As curious as I was, this could be dangerous if Killer…

“How do you know that?” Killer growled as I felt him glacé to me.

“No, she didn’t tell anybody” Abyss firstly stated, “I found out from one of my sources.”

Killer glared at them as my nose leaked a bit faster. I went up to Killer and tugged on his sleeve softly. He needs to know where I’m going.

“Who?” Killer ignored me.

“Look, we’re only here to talk” Abyss stated, “and I don’t think Outer would approve if you started a fight, especially with a kid you're babysitting.”

Killer glared for a while before saying, “Fine, but don’t either of you dare touch Outer.”

“We won’t” Abyss stated.

Walking back to the house, I avoided eye contact with Abyss and whomever he was with. I still don’t think it’ll be good if they see my nose leaking. Ug, why does my nose start leaking and continue to do so? I sense the pressure as Nightmare had back at Epic’s house but… it was weaker… Was Abyss’s friend heavy with negativity or something?

“Outer, a pair of idiots want to talk to you” Killer stated as he opened the door.

“Killer, that’s rude, and think about Easter picking up that line” Outer started before seeing us, “Oh… Abyss… and this is?”

“My girlfriend, Lunar” Abyss explained, “We’re here to talk about a possible truce between the council and Nightmare. Just so we have more focus on this Fatal Error individual.”

“I see… I don’t see how much help I can offer” Outer replied, “Though with Color busy with his case against Stretch, I guess try to state some insight.”

I slowly pointed to the guest bedroom as I didn’t know how much longer I could hide my magic nosebleed.

“Yes, you can play in the guest bedroom,” Outer told me, “Though… why are you holding your nose hole?”

I glanced at my puppet as I wanted to put it on my hand but…

“Killer, can you start the kettle while I take Easter upstairs for a few minutes?” Outer asked.

“You want me to heat up water, right?” Killer clarified.

“Yep,” Outer nodded, “Sorry, Abyss, Lunar, I’ll try to keep it short.”

“It’s okay,” Abyss told him.

Outer slowly lifted me up and started to take me upstairs. I tried to point to my puppet, but Outer didn’t notice. In the room, Outer put me down.

“So, what happened out there?” Outer asked me.

I slowly lowered my hands and shook my head.

“Nothing happened? So why is your nose…” Outer took a tissue and held it to my face, “leaking so much?”

How to explain… oh, maybe I could doodle it? I went over to a paper and started to draw a monster soul. Wait… that’s not my current soul shape… right? Ug, this isn’t about that detail. Now draw a bunch of bad energy and…

“A soul and a bunch of black scribbles… black… black…” Outer thought before asking, “black magic?”

I shook my head.

“Then um… Oh, Dream doesn’t do well with negative energy” Outer remember, “Is your soul not reacting well with how stress Killer is right now?”

That’s the closest I think we’ll get but…

“Okay, I’ll try to ease the tension downstairs” Outer stated, “Just let me know if you need anything, alright?”

After a nod from me, Outer left. So… the skeleton Abyss is with is Lunar… Lunar… I don’t know anybody named Lunar. A new AU? Maybe, but… I don’t think that’s it.

Peeking out of my room, I wanted to look at Abyss’s girlfriend to see that’ll help jog my memory. Seeing Abyss and the strange skeleton sitting on the couch as I noticed how Lunar was smaller than Abyss. Thinking about all the tiny skeletons I know; I couldn’t think of which ones would be smaller than the already short Abyss. Lunar also had violet eye lights which look sort of like… Nightmare’s when he wasn’t covered in goop.

Shaking my head, there is no way Nightmare would go undercover for a treaty approach like this. Plus, why would Nightmare be Abyss’s girlfriend? It doesn’t make any sense… guess Ink made another Dreamtale AU but with enough of a twist for the Nightmare of that AU to not eat the black apples.

“Now then” Abyss started as if laying down some points, “While asking…”

Ug, boring, I’m not interested in all those details. Fatal Error is the only thing balancing out Ink’s creation right now. As much as I don’t like the quality of Fatal’s work, it’s not like the multiverse has a choice in the matter right now. Nightmare should know this and wouldn’t want to take the treaty.

“So, how do you plan on getting Nightmare to agree?” Killer spoke up, “All I hear is benefits for council and nothing about us.”

“Turning a blind eye, to put it shortly” Abyss stated, “As long as Fatal Error is around, that’ll be the council’s top concern. Spreading their resources out thinly to handle the gang is putting a damper on any effort towards Fatal.”

“You still don’t get it” Killer sighed, “Error was a destroyer and a member of our gang. Fatal is also a destroyer. So why would we allow anybody to remove a potential replacement for our missing gang member?”

“I’m sure if Nightmare wanted to replace Error, he would have done it by now” Lunar spoke up, “Besides, Fatal Error isn’t interested in forming alliances… according to Abyss’s book. I’m sure Nightmare wouldn’t want a loose cannon to find their way into his territory.”

Killer thought for a moment before saying, “Fine, I don’t think Error can be replaced anyways…”

The chat continues as I felt a bit of wetness in my eye sockets. N-no, don’t cry… Killer only admitted that I… Error was irreplaceable.

The group continued to chat as I watched them. Things seemed to go smoothly about territory rules and some ideas about AU being marked as neutral even if they are under the council’s ruling. It seems like Abyss was trying to make it fair for both sides but… I don’t think the council will like all these ideas.

“Now all we have to do is convince Dream about these terms before appealing to the council” Abyss finally stated.

“I don’t think those idiots will even consider agreeing to this” Killer sighed, “Well, aside from cotton candy of course.”

“I’m sure things will work out” Outer replied before stating, “Now, it’s far past Easter’s snack time. I better go grab the carrots before she comes down begging for chocolate.”

I don’t want carrots, I want chocolate! I rushed down the stairs and over to Outer. Come on, why can’t I have chocolate for snack time?

“I think she heard the word chocolate” Lunar laughed, “But um… Easter, why is your nose hole… um…”

“Is it still leaking?” Outer lowered himself to my level, “Easter, are you sure about what you told me earlier?”

“She didn’t land on her face earlier if that’s what this is about” Killer folded his arms.

“No, she said…well actually doodled…” Outer glanced at the two on the couch, “Actually, that’s a conversation Easter should have with her mom. I should get those carrot sticks.”

Lunar stared at me as Outer went to the kitchen. Something about her gaze felt unsettling as I went after Outer to see if I can’t coax some chocolate. Didn’t Lunar mention something about Abyss’s book earlier? Did she see my page? Is she trying to see if I’m…

“Here we go, carrot sticks and some delicious dip” Outer hummed as he pulled it out of the fridge, “do you want to watch the puppets on the TV while you eat?”

Puppets? Yes, I want to watch the puppets!

As Outer turned on the TV, I wondered why Abyss and Lunar didn’t look close to getting up. Didn’t they get what they came for? If they are serious about that truce thing, they should strike sooner rather than later.

“So, how’s life with Killer?” Lunar asked Outer.

Outer smiled, “He’s like a tough kitty that’s actually a romantic nebula.”

Killer’s face flushed, “O-Outer, don’t.”

“Aw, why don’t you say something sweet to get me all flustered?” Outer kissed Killer’s cheek.

Killer whispered something as Outer smiled and gave Killer another kiss.

“So, how’s dating Abyss?” Outer asked Lunar.

“W-well” Lunar also blushes but in light lavender, “He’s… well… somebody I enjoy reading with.”

“We’re still figuring things out” Abyss added, “We’ve been making jewelry together and Lunar just knows which gems are the best for the piece.”

“I-I’m just going by the symbolism and healing auras the gems have based on their cut” Lunar stated, “It’s not like I’m making them be visually appealing or anything like that.

“Don’t sell yourself short Lunar” Abyss hugged Lunar, “They are amazing.”

“Speaking of jewelry…” Killer slowly spoke up, “Do you know anybody that makes those diamond tip blades?”

“Yeah, but why do you want to know?” Abyss tilted his head.

Killer looked away as Outer spoke up, “He managed to chip one of his knives.”

Killer grumbled something as if explaining how the knife got damaged. Abyss went to his fluffy scarf as if looking for a business card. A conversation about the person later, things went quietly among them. Good, I wanted to watch the puppets in peace.

I felt a hand rest on my head after a while. Confused, I turn to Lunar as I wonder why. Lunar pulled their hand away as I noticed some type of burn mark on her fingers. Strange… did something happen with the kettle earlier?

Heading over to where I put the Palette puppet and putting it on so Palette could ask, “What happened to Auntie's hand?”

“We… we should go now” Lunar stated as she got up.

Chapter Text

“I can’t believe you talk me into this” Killer sighed as he set down a wooden block.

Outer smiled, “It’s good practice.”

Killer grumbled, “First you talk me into tag now this?”

“Does Dunkle Nebby not like Easter?” Palette asked as I started to pretend to cry.

“I know those are fake tears” Killer started, “and it’s not like I dislike you…”

“Easter knows,” Palette told him, “Just teasing.”

Killer set down the last piece before putting a wooden train on the treads along with the blocks. He then pulled out some wooden pegs and put them on the train and around the tracks. Oh, those pegs are monsters.

“Ready to play with the train?” Killer asked me.

“Choo-choo” Palette stated as I reached out to push the train.

Killer put two pegs on the tracks but on two different routes, “Look, some monsters fell onto the tracks and can’t get up.”

I pause and look ahead. Either route I take will end with the train hitting one of the two pegs. Was Killer trying to sneak a lesson into playtime? Unlikely, he wanted to see how I think and if I’ll try to be like Dream or Ink with the dilemma. Let’s see… Ink couldn’t care less who gets hurt as long as he gets to the destination. Dream would refuse to allow either monster to get hurt even if it’s impossible.

Though in my case with how I like to handle AUs… No, I don’t want to go through that again. Deciding who lives and who dies by shared randomness. A coin tosses for some level of fairness to the big picture. I can’t spend an entire day deciding who’s next on the chopping order after all and having some weight on my consciousness about ifs…

“Killer, this might be a bit too hard for Easter to understand fully” Outer spoke up after a bit.

Killer sighed, “Come on, it’s not like I’m preventing her from moving the pieces.”

Or I could just burn the whole set. Can’t force me to make a choice if there is no multiverse for the effect to take place. Just let everything burn and crumble.

“Easter, no” Outer told me, “Lighters are not a toy for your magic to make.”

Lighters? Oh… guess my thoughts of burning took shape. Killer grabbed the lighter and held it outside my reach. It wasn’t like I was going to grab it…

“I’m… I’m going to take this outside in case it’s faulty and capable of combustion” Killer stated as he went to the front door.

“Easter, do you know how dangerous lighters are?” Outer asked me.

Slowly nodding, I curled up slightly.

“Did you mean to create a lighter?” Outer asked as he went over to me.

No…

Outer thought for a moment before saying, “I see… do you want me to talk to Medic or Sci about a limiter? So dangerous items don’t materialize? By materializing I mean taking shape. By limiter I mean to… keep your magic in a sippy cup.”

That also means I can’t use my magic when I need to. Like what if I didn’t create that Blueberry to fend off Stretch. Having a means of defense taken away from me… I don’t want that. Sure, I hate having creation-like magic, but I would rather have my shield than be defenseless.

“Back” Killer stated as he came in, “and the lighter didn’t have fuel in it.”

“Really?” Outer let out a sigh of relief, “Well that’s a relief.”

“Yeah, a pillow came out of it when I opened it,” Killer told him, “Not sure how a simple cotton pillow was able to fit inside of it though.”

“A… pillow? Oh, Easter, did you want to take your nap early?” Outer concluded.

Tilting my head, I wondered why there was even a pillow involved in the first place. Sure, it’s easy to write it off as tiredness but… it’s more of emotional tiredness? I was feeling tired of doing my old job at the time, so that must be where the pillow decided to fit in.

“Easter?” Outer patted my head, “Nap now or later?”

No, I don’t want to nap… I want… I want to…

“And those are real tears” Killer stated, “Outer, she didn’t hurt anywhere, right?”

“Easter, can you tell me why you’re crying?” Outer asked me.

I sniffled as Palette spoke, “Easter e-emotion tired.”

“I see… did it have to do with the trolly?” Outer asked me.

I shook my head.

“Did the trolly remind you of something?” Outer followed up.

A nod.

Outer picked me up and asked, “Do your parents force you to make hard choices?”

That’s… as close as we’re going to get to the truth. Ink’s creation is responsible for creating problems with the multiverse and its limited size. Can’t really speak for Dream in that situation, but…

“It’s okay” Outer rubbed my back, “Let it all out.”

“So… you got it?” Killer looked towards the front door.

“Yeah, I got her,” Outer told him, “I’ll put her down for a nap once she’s ready.”

Killer nodded and went to leave but stopped after he opened the door.

“Out of all the timing” Killer sighed.

“Did something happen?” A familiar voice asked.

B-Blueberry? He is okay? Why is he here? Did he come to check on me?

“You could say that,” Killer told him.

“Did you tease her too hard with a knife?” A second familiar voice asked.

“No, she was playing with the train and couldn’t handle a simple problem” Killer folded his arms.

“Having to pick between two monsters isn’t a simple problem” Outer told him.

“Oh, the trolley problem? How did she respond?” Blueberry asked.

“She made a lighter… with pillow inside of it” Killer stated.

Blueberry sighed, “I think I know why… can I see her?”

“Sure,” Killer told him.

Blueberry came into the house looking the same as always. He’s okay. Nothing happened that night. Guess the gang really did put him on the base arrest.

I reached for him as Palette stated, “Uncle Taco.”

Blueberry came over and brushed my hair, “Hi Easter, sorry that I couldn’t come by sooner.”

“Easter was worried that Fatal got Uncle Taco” Palette told him.

“No, he didn’t” Blueberry told me, “Though now, Dust is quite worried about me going outside.”

“We don’t even know why Fatal decided to attack your AU” Dust replied, “While I know you can handle yourself; I don’t want to take risks.”

“It’s okay, Dust” Blueberry told him, “I been meaning to find a way to avoid my brother.”

“Easter needs to tell Uncle Taco about that night” Palette stated, “In secret.”

“Huh? Did something else happened?” Blueberry took me from Outer, “Outer, I’m going to take Easter up to the guest room. We’ll talk about the train first before getting into any previous information.”

“Okay,” Outer replied.

Blueberry carried me to the bedroom as I gripped onto his shirt. Who knows when I’ll get to see him next? Closing the door, Blueberry took a deep breath before speaking.

“This is about your old job, isn’t it?” Blueberry started.

I nodded as Palette stated, “Error is tired of deciding who lives or dies.”

“You wore working for an awfully long time” Blueberry wiped a tear out of my socket, “Being tired should be expected.”

“Easter doesn’t want to decide things like that” Palette told him.

“And you shouldn’t have to” Blueberry told me, “I um… had a talk with Nightmare about your situation. We agreed that it’ll be best for you to live your life as Easter… but does Easter want that?”

Live my life as Easter? Ah, so that’s why Killer never hinted to me about my life as Error. The fewer people know the better.

“Easter… doesn't know” Palette answered, “What if Ink finds out?”

“He’ll probably forget in two seconds” Blueberry sighed before saying, “Though I don’t think Ink will ever find out.”

“Maybe but… Easter doesn’t like…” Palette started, “the other skeletons are scary.”

“Scary?” Blueberry asked me.

“When… when the skeletons talked about Fatal… it’s scary…” Palette told him.

“Ah” Blueberry patted my head, “Don’t worry, they wouldn’t dare hurt the creator’s child.”

Palette pointed out, “But they’ll hurt Error in any form…”

Blueberry thought for a bit before saying, “I’ll ask Color to encourage Ink to build a separate house. It can’t be good for you to be surrounded by strangers all day.”

They’re not strangers… but yes, I get it.

“So… Easter is safe?” Palette asked him.

“Yep, as Easter, you’re perfectly safe,” Blueberry told me.

I thought for a bit before Palette asked, “Can’t Outer adopt me?”

Blueberry snorted, “I like that idea, but I don’t think Ink and Dream would sign the paper.”

“But Easter likes hanging out with Killer!” Palette blurted out.

“I guess I could talk to Outer about him becoming an official god parent in the event something was to occur. Though both Ink and Dream would have to agree and Alter should be aware in case either one gets out of hand” Blueberry explained to me.

“Easter would love that” Palette stated, “But don’t say, god.”

“Pfft, okay, I’ll think of a different term” Blueberry ruffled my hair.

“S-so… about that night…” Palette decided to move on to the next topic.

“Before or after I left?” Blueberry asked.

“After… Easter heard scratching and thought it was scary sleep that had slipped out” Palette explained, “So Easter followed you and ended up going through a portal.”

“W-what? Wore you caught by Fatal?” Blueberry gasp.

I nodded, “Ink showed up and put me in a sound-proof stroller. They fought but Ink ran off. Ink had his arm cut off and had to paint it back… He told mama that I made snow to hide in when mama asked why I was so cold.”

“Oh…” Blueberry thought for a bit, “so maybe… Easter how much did Fatal say before Ink show up?”

I shook my head, “Easter didn’t understand. Glitched voice was too hard to understand.”

“Yet you used to talk that way” Blueberry playfully poked my cheek, “well I guess it can’t be helped…”

“Also, Ink found out the scratching was a mouse,” Palette stated.

“A mouse? Maybe you should ask Killer if you can adopt any cats” Blueberry asked.

“Noooo, Ink would feed ‘em paints” Palette stated as I playfully punched Blueberry.

Blueberry laughed, “That does sound like Ink.”

I decided to move on to another topic, “Is Nightmare, okay?”

“Yeah, he’s been getting out of his office more these past two days” Blueberry explained.

“He… did tell you what happened when Dust got sick and went to Epic’s house asking for Cross to fix his voice?” Palette asked.

“You wore there?” Blueberry sounded surprised.

I nodded, “Yeah, the whole time… afterward, Mama had to take me to the hospital.”

“Why?” Blueberry narrows his eye sockets.

“Cross started a fight with Nightmare” Palette stated, “Mama tried to sneak Easter out, but Nightmare thought the blanket was hiding something bad.”

“So, you got hurt by accident?” Blueberry asked for clarification.

Palette nodded, “Yeah, badly. When Easter woke up, there were new yellow markings. Also, Easter clothes she was wearing at Epic’s had dust on them…”

“What?!” Blueberry gasped, “Did you… You know…”

“Easter doesn’t think she did…” Palette told him, “How could Easter wake up at the hospital and not elsewhere?”

“R-right… I’ll ask Nightmare about what happened and see if he’s okay” Blueberry slowly settled down.

I nodded as Palette decided to ask, “Did you hear about what Stretch did?”

“Yeah, how’s your hand?” Blueberry lifted it up, “It is doing all right. You’re lucky it wasn’t any worse.”

Palette stated, “Easter was scared and wanted Uncle Taco… she didn’t mean to…”

Blueberry patted my hair, “It’s okay. You needed a guard and so one came to your aid.”

I nodded, “Y-yeah… um… so… Color is making sure Stretch doesn’t hurt any other skeleton.”

“Yep, he got all the evidence he needed from Dust” Blueberry told me, “I didn’t think Dust’s habit of taking photos of everything would come in handy.”

“So… Blueberry is happy with how things turned out?” Palette asked him.

“For the most part” Blueberry patted my head, “Though it’s not like I can change it now.”

I lowered my head for a moment. Blueberry brushed my hair as I leaned slightly into his touch. Moments later, I let out a faint yawn.

“Okay, one story and it’s off to nap land,” Blueberry told me.

“Stars” Palette muttered as I pointed to a book.

“Okay, but I’ll read that book on one condition” Blueberry hummed, “Can you say my name without using a puppet?”

Oh, I guess I was talking with Palette this whole time. I slowly opened my own mouth as I tried to speak. Strange enough only wind came out… was I this rusty with my voice?

“That’s good enough” Blueberry stated, “But I want you to try saying one word each day without a puppet. I know you love puppets, but it worries me when you start getting overly attached to them.”

Somebody gently knocked on the door. Blueberry told them to come in as he sat me down on the bed. Killer and Dust wore there, and I wonder why both.

“Blue, it’s been a while” Dust stated, “Everything okay up here?”

“Yeah, Easter was just ready for a story before her nap” Blueberry told them.

“Um…” Palette started, “Can… can Da-uncle Nebby play with Easter after her nap and snack?”

“Duncle? Oh, that’s the perfect title” Blueberry clapped his hands.

“Huh?” Killer looked confused.

Blueberry stated, “I’ll explain later, with Outer. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the conversation.”

Killer slowly blinked before saying, “okay?”

“Oh, and can you tell Outer I brought some tea that I wanted to brew for Easter’s snack time,” Blueberry told him.

“Chocolate tea?” Palette gasps.

“Indeed,” Blueberry told me, “But only after you get a good nap in.”

Chapter Text

“I’m home” Killer called out as he dropped a bag.

I rushed over as Palette stated, “Welcome home, Duncle.”

“You’re home early” Outer kissed Killer’s cheek, “How was work?”

“It was… okay…” Killer sighed, “Nightmare wanted me to throw this bag out, but Blueberry suggested that I should get Easter’s opinion on it.”

I looked over to the bag as I wondered what was inside. Opening it up, I saw a ball of black sludge that looked a lot like a chunk of Nightmare’s goop. Picking it up, I noticed that my nose was perfectly dry as I wonder if it absorbs negative energy instead of giving it off. Strange…

“A ball of… slime… strange…” Outer thought before asking, “Was Blueberry wondering how Easter would react to Nightmare?”

“I assume so” Killer replied.

I lift it up as I notice how the ball kept its shape even if it sagged a little. I held it close to my body as I wondered how it could maintain its sphere-like shape. Wait, was this an egg? Like a moldsmal egg? Was it fertile? Does Nightmare even make eggs?

“Easter, you look confused,” Outer pointed out, “do you want to ask a question?"

“Egg?” Palette asked Outer.

“Egg? No, it’s not an Egg… right Killer?” Outer asked.

“I don’t think so” Killer shrugged, “Speaking of eggs, Horror message that he had some extra chicken eggs and wanted to share some with us. Said a growing baby bone needs to eat plenty of food.”

“Aw, that’s so sweet of him” Outer cooed.

I held the ball in my arms as my mind slowly turned about if this was an egg. Hmm… I want to keep it. Even if it’s for a little while since I know I can’t take it with me after I leave here.

“Egg” Palette stated, “Easter keeps warm.”

I hugged it as I let the slime squish into me. This reminds me of how Nightmare used to pick me up when I was too injured to move after one of Ink's fights. I like this familiarity of old times when Nightmare’s slime managed to bypass the glitching and rebooting. I don’t know why, but the texture of slime calms me instead of causing feelings of fear and pain.

“So… like…” Killer looked conflicted before turning to Outer, “In the context of that baby-raising book you have; is this like how monster kids sometimes take care of dolls like they are real babies?”

“Maybe?” Outer shrugged, “Easter is this a real egg, or do you want to treat it like it’s an egg.”

Palette replied, “Easter isn’t sure yet.”

“I see…” Outer thought for a moment before asking, “Would Nightmare mind if Easter holds onto it for a day or two?”

“He wanted us to throw it away, so I don’t think he should care” Killer sighed.

“Okay, Easter, you can have it, but it has to stay here when you go,” Outer told me.

I nodded and went over to sit down with the egg.

“So, aside from the package, how was your day?” Outer asked Killer.

Killer slowly talked about his day. It seemed like typical gang stuff, so I mostly ignored it as I petted the egg. Moments later, I jumped slightly when the sound of scratching came from the door.

Killer opened the door, “Horror, what did the boss say about using doors as scratching posts?”

I looked over as I saw the broken skull skeleton holding a crate with a piece of straw poking out of it. Horror was eating okay, and he gained a bit of bone mass since I last saw him. Was somebody, outside the gang, feeding him?

“Would you rather I bash into the door?” Horror asked.

Killer shook his head, “No, just come on in.”

Horror came in and put the crate down on a table. Seeing it from a better angle, I could see that straw was being used to cushion each egg. Outer brought out bumpy cardboard and started to fill it with eggs.

“Hello, Horror, nice to see you” Outer hummed, “and thank you for the eggs. They’ll make a great breakfast when we fry them up tomorrow.”

Horror nodded, “Y-yeah, um… this is the…”

“Yeah, this is Easter” Outer nodded, “Easter this is Horror.”

“Hi how… howl… um…” Palette stammered before being able to successfully, “Horror.”

“So, you’re not scared of me?” Horror asked.

I tilted my head as Palette asked, “Why should Easter be scared of a friend of Duncle Nebby?”

“Easter, do you know what Killer does for work?” Outer asked me.

“Works for the Octo” Palette told Outer.

Outer nodded, “and can you tell me what sort of things Killer does on his job?”

“Um… stabby stab” Palette giggled, “Turn monsters into stab horses.”

“Stab… horses?” Killer was trying to hide his smile.

“It’s what she calls unicorns” Outer clarified to him, “Easter, you do know that unicorns aren’t simply stabbed horses?”

“Only head stabs count,” Palette replied.

Killer burst out laughing as Outer seemed a bit conflicted. Horror had a bit of drool as if he were imagining what grilled stab horse would taste like. It took a bit for Killer to regain his composure as Horror eventually snapped out of his daydream.

“We should make some stab horses sometimes then,” Killer told me, “Even if it’ll just be stuff animals to freak out your folks.”

“Yay” Palette laughed.

Outer tried to look happy as he said, “Anyways, Horror, how do you feel about a snack?”

“Yeah,” Horror told him.

Outer went over to Killer, “Can you help me in the kitchen?”

“Yeah sure, but what about…” Killer looked to Horror and me.

“Easter, can you play host while we’re in the kitchen?” Outer asked me.

“Okay,” Palette told them.

Outer and Killer went into the kitchen as I heard a soft chatter.

“So, um… do they feed you?” Horror asked me.

“Yes, food is good here” Palette answered.

“I meant…” Horror paused before saying, “Ink and Dream.”

“Dada isn’t the best cook, but,” Palette told him, “Mama makes sure I eat healthy foods.”

“That’s good” Horror looked relieved.

I thought for a moment before asking, “Does Horror get food?”

“Yes, Boss and… somebody else makes sure I eat plenty” Horror told me.

“That’s good,” Palette told him.

“Do um… do they hurt you?” Horror than ask.

I tilted my head.

“The scars” his claw-like finger pointed to my arms.

Palette stated, “Born with them, like dada’s tattoos.”

“Oh… they look a lot like his scars… sorry” Horror scratched his head.

“But Easter likes it here more,” Palette told him, “Much more quiet star time.”

“Don’t you live in the same building as the council?” Horror asked.

Palette nodded, “Yes… Oh, have Horror visited the Grillby’s here?”

“N-not really,” Horror told me.

Palette started to ramble, “Easter ate the galaxy there. It’s like a chicken pot pie. Easter likes it and…”

Horror’s non-existent stomach growled.

“Back with snacks” Outer stated and set down a tray of food.

Horror nodded thanks before quickly grabbing one and stuffing it into his mouth. Oh, my ramblings made him hungry. I took a snack and softly chewed it. I should avoid talking to Horror about food when food isn’t nearby.

Chapter Text

Waking up the next morning, I found it odd that I was feeling more alert than usual. Confused, I looked around the room for anything strange but didn’t find anything. Picking up the egg that I had slept with, I went to see if the others wore up. They might know if something is going on right now or not.
“Yeah, I checked on her last night” I heard Killer say, “She wasn’t tossing and turning like usual.”
“That’s a relief” Outer hummed.
Oh, so that’s why I feel more alert. I actually got to rest last night instead of having a scary sleep. Wait, did I even dream last night? Feels like I did but…
“Easter, good morning, how are you feeling?” Outer asked me.
I raised up the Palette puppet to say, “Good, no scawy sleep.”
“That’s great” Outer patted my head, “are you ready to eat breakfast?”
“Chocolate,” Palette answered with a giggle.

“Easter, do you see this jar?” Outer asked me that afternoon.
I nodded.
Outer put down a sheet of paper with numbers on it, “can you count out the number of beans from this jar and place them next to the number?”
“Easter can do that,” Palette told him.
I did the first number and Outer smiled. He patted me on the head and told me I was doing a good job. He then said he wanted to clean the kitchen while I pulled out more beans for the page.
The gentle shuffling of beans reminded me of Waterfall as I recalled times when I visited various waterfalls for their fake starry sky. It was relaxing to hear as I started to swim in my hand in the jar. Slowly, the gentle sensation of beans rolling across my phalanges was also soothing. Taking off the Palette puppet, I dove my other hand into the jar.
“Killer, what happened?” I suddenly heard from the front door.
Turning, I wondered why I didn’t notice the door opening. Seeing Killer with a couple of cuts, I put down the jar and tried to recall where the first aid kit was. Outer guided Killer to the couch as I saw a bouquet of flowers in Killer’s hand. Did he get beat up while grabbing something nice for his mates?
“Easter, can you keep an eye on Killer while I grab the first aid kit?” Outer asked as he left.
I nodded as Outer went off. Sitting next to Killer, I looked at him with worry.
“I’m fine, it’s just a scratch” Killer stated.
I placed my hands on my hips.
“Well, it’s not like I expected to get attacked while buying flowers,” Killer told me.
Lifting the flowers, the delicate petals must have sadly gotten beaten up as well.
“Oh, so it’s poor flowers instead of poor Duncle Nebby?” Killer teased.
I playfully flicked his forehead.
“Yeah, I earned that. Do you think you can grab a vase?” Killer asked, “Outer keeps them in one of the bottom cupboards.”
Nodding, I went off to where Killer specified. I scan over the various vases as I wonder what size would be the best. I ended up taking a white ceramic vase and took it over to the center of the coffee table that was in front of the couch. Killer slowly took the flowers and tried arranging them inside the vase, but he found it hard as the broken stems kept flopping over.
Outer came back with the first aid kit and Killer leaned back into the couch while Outer tended to the small scraps. I looked at the flowers as I wondered if I could help. Let’s see… Dream and Nightmare wore tree guardians, and my soul is flower-shaped so… maybe I have a bit of plant-type magic? Or what if I make something that has plant-based magic? Like… butterflies! Yeah, I should make some butterflies fix the flowers.
Thinking of healing butterflies, I tried to focus my thoughts. Taking a deep breath, I focused hard. Moments later, small fluttering was brushing along my bones as I saw transparent butterflies fluttering in front of me. Slowly, the butterflies went over to the broken flowers and started to fix them. Once the flowers were healed, the butterflies started to arrange the flowers before vanishing altogether into a yellow mist.
“Now, did I forget what today is, or were you doing something special for us?” Outer said as he finished tending to Killer.
Killer flushed a little, “It’s just… it feels like I haven’t been… you know… so I wanted to…”
“Ah, okay, they are beautiful. Thank you for getting the flowers Killer” Outer kissed Killer’s cheek, “This is just what we wanted to add to the room.”
“N-no problem it’s too bad that they…” Killer seemed to notice that the flowers wore okay before saying, “guess that part was all in my head…”
“Yeah, guess all they needed was a nice vase to straighten themselves out” Outer lifted it, “I’ll add some water and put it on the dining table.”
Outer went off as I went back to sitting next to Killer.
“Easter, did you do something?” Killer asked.
Placing a finger across my teeth, I smiled knowing that Killer should get the attention instead of myself.
Killer ruffled my hair, “as long as the flowers don’t explode, I’ll keep quiet about it.”
“There we go,” Outer hummed, “Don’t they just light up the room.”
“Indeed,” Killer told Outer.
Outer came back as I made sure Outer could sit next to Killer by scooting to the other side of the couch. Killer was hugged by Outer after the skeleton had sat down next to him. The two started to speak softly as I assumed they wore sweet nothings and tuned them out. Heading back to the jar of beans, I started to play with them again.
Later, Color came home, “I’m home.”
“Color, welcome home” Outer called out, “Killer brought home a surprise for us. It’s on the table.”
“Flowers? Aw, how lovely” Color smiled and leaned over to kiss Killer’s cheek, “I love them my darling nebula.”
“Cotton candy” Killer started, “you don’t think they’re too plain, right?”
Color shook his head, “It’s just what we needed to brighten up the house.”
Soon three skeletons were on the couch and holding each other. Killer seemed a bit surprised with the displays of affection but seemed to enjoy it. This seems like an overreaction to the flowers as I wondered if the butterflies did something besides healing them.
“Oh right, dinner” Outer slowly got up, “How does…”
The two nodded to Outer’s idea as they soon got up to help in the kitchen. I played with the beans more as I didn’t want to be the fourth wheel. Besides, it’s nice seeing Killer getting loved like this.

That night, I awoke feeling thirsty. Rubbing my sockets, I found it strange that I didn’t wake from a nightmare. Looking at the egg, I wonder if it had something to do with this. Heading downstairs for water, I heard talking at the front door. Looking down there, I saw Killer and Abyss talking.
“So, ivory?” Abyss asked as he handed Killer a box.
“No, summoned bone” Killer corrected him, “Makes it more special in a way.”
Abyss glanced at the box before asking, “So they’re not for you?”
“Not… directly” Killer answered and looked away, “It’s more like a proof of well… how to put it…”
“They’re engagement knives then?” Abyss assumed with a smirk.
Killer sighed, “Yes… but you better not tell Color or Outer about this.”
Abyss nodded, “I’ll keep it a secret.”
“You better or…” Killer started before clearing his throat, “never mind…”
“Well, I better be off before I wake the others,” Abyss chuckled.
“Bye” Killer coldly told him before closing the door.
Killer went to the couch and pulled out one of the knives as I saw the delicate carvings into the bone handle. It must have taken Killer a long time to put those flowery and vines detail into the handles showing off how much Killer cared for the two skeletons. While it was lucky for Killer to have Outer and Color, Outer and Color wore surely lucky to have Killer.
“Oh, another nightmare?” Killer asked as he went to put the knives away.
I shook my head and pointed to the kitchen.
“Hungry?” Killer assumed.
I shook my head and went to say water but noticed I was lacking my puppet to speak.
Killer got the gist of it and stated, “I think we have some milk… milk works, right?”
I nodded happily as Killer went to grab me a glass.
I looked at the box and wondered when Killer would officially pop the question. I recall the query in Spanish as I deeply thought of a flashback scene of Asgoro’s first wedding proposal in Undernovela. It was beautiful but of course, the Toriel counterpart never seems to remain with Asgore counterparts much to the drama of every timeline’s story. I do hope that Killer’s proposal shall remain sweet across time and never waiver.
“Here you go” Killer handed me the glass.
I nodded politely and started to sip the milk.
Killer went back to the knives as he looked… well it’s hard to tell with his empty sockets. Wait… were… white rings forming in them. Strange… I didn’t think Killer would or could do that anymore.
“Easter… you just want happiness, right?” Killer asked me.
Well… short answer is yes.
“Do you think… I’ll make Color and Outer happy in the long run?” Killer asked me.
I nodded and pointed to the flowers.
“That’s only because you fix them,” Killer sighed.
I rolled my eye lights.
“Don’t give me that “it’s the thought that counts” look” Killer sighed.
I sighed and went to flick Killer on his arm. He dodged it as he didn’t seem to be in the mood.
“I mean… I can’t even take care of the child of a god-like being for Pete’s sake” Killer groaned.
I tilted my head in confusion. Killer did a great job seeing that he’s not used to kids and I’m not used to being a kid.
“I know Outer wants kids and I’m just… what if I hurt them?” Killer curled up on the couch.
I took Killer’s hand and placed it on my head. See, you’re not hurting me. That means it’ll be okay.
“That’s only because you don’t behave like… wait, are you even a kid?” Killer asked me, “I mean I know your one physically but like… mentally you seemed a lot older… like you’ve seen hell.”
Don’t change the topic. I place my hands on my hips and puff my cheeks.
“Yeah well, anyway, you’re not enough of a kid to prove anything,” Killer told me.
It’s enough to help you learn through… right?
“I guess Outer dragged you here just to help me with my own issues” Killer sighed.
I shook my head.
“Well, you better not grow up and be anybody’s tool… especially the council” Killer directly told me.
I nodded.
“Though… Outer might wanted to teach you a little bit of what it’s like being a normal kid” Killer told me, “Staying near the council and being treated like a princess or goddess isn’t good for you after all.”
I nodded in agreement.
“Guess you should let Outer know whenever you need time to really misbehave,” Killer told me, “I could teach you some pranks to use against those idiots.”
I grinned and nodded.
“Like how Cross is terrified of cows,” Killer told, “It’ll teach him a lesson to betray Nightmare.”
I clapped my hands with a smile.
“Wait, this was supposed to be about me and my future,” Killer sighed.
At this point, isn’t everybody’s future intertwined?
“Maybe I’m not a good parent anyways… after all you’ve only spoken through that puppet this whole time,” Killer told me.
You’re doing a good job at reading me though.
Killer seemed to respond to my thought with a sigh and glancing away.
Slowly opening my mouth, I really wanted to tell him otherwise, “D-duncle Nebby is best paw-lent.”
Killer looked at me in shock. A few moments later, he started to laugh. Did… did I say something weird or funny?
“Flattering will get you nowhere kid” Killer told me, “Though Ink and Dream must be pretty lame even to a kid if I’m the best paw-lent.”
Hey, don’t make fun of how I say things!
“Yeah, I know you’re trying to give some hope” Killer finally ended on, “Hopefully that small amount of hope pays off this time instead of ending the same way my timeline ended up going.”
“Killer, I heard laughing, is everything okay?” Color asked from the bedroom door.
“Easter was just telling me about a funny dream she had,” Killer answered, “she’ll be heading back to bed as soon as she’s done with her milk.”

Chapter Text

I waved my legs around happy as the loose jean shorts followed around sloppily with my movement. A familiar feeling about my old clothes came across my mind even though my previous shorts were made of a different cloth. Wait, why was I sitting here waiting for something again?
“Duncle Nebby” Palette spoke up, “What we waiting for, again?”
“We’re waiting for Color and Outer to finish at the idiot’s HQ,” Killer told me, “Afterwards, we’re going to the park.”
“Food?” Palette asked as it was growing closer to lunchtime.
“There’s a space dog hut on the way,” Killer told me.
I thought for a moment before Palette stated, “Easter wants to make sandwiches.”
Killer looked at me for a moment before saying, “I think we had some ham we should use soon…”
Killer went to the kitchen and started to pull out supplies. I pulled over a chair to see the counter clearly and help. Before I could grab the bread to start making, Killer signal me to wait as he pulled out a cookie cutter from a drawer. It was kitty face shape as he started to cut the bread into a cute shape.
“Duncle Nebby cute side” Palette teased him.
“Shut…” Killer cleared his throat, “This was your idea. I only made sure you didn’t pinch your princess’ fingers. Got it?”
“No princess” Palette grumbled.
Killer nodded and kept cutting the bread. I took Palette off and started to help put the lettuce, ham, and yellow cheese between slices of bread. Killer pulled out bags and place each sandwich into its own bag and label it. There was Color, Outer, himself, me, and… three unlabeled ones. Guess the trio of mates might ask for seconds.
I put Palette back on my hand, “Drinks? Easter likes chocolate.”
“We don’t have bottled serving size for milk” Killer told me, “We got juice. Which one?”
“Easter likes golden-white cherries smothered in chocolate” Palette answered.
“Cherry it is then” Killer stated as he pulled out a few drinks.
“Chocolate chips?” Palette asked.
“Potato chips” Killer started to sound amused with how I worded things.
“Chocolate oranges” Palette replied with equal amusement.
“Fresh oranges… and an orange peeler” Killer stated.
“Chocolate on a stick” Palette moved onto.
“Baby carrots” Killer replied.
“Chocolate nice cream?” Palette wondered.
“Nice cream? I don’t think that’ll stay frozen” Killer told me, “I’m sure Color and Outer won’t mind if we grab space nice cream later.”
“Okay,” Palette chirped, “All chocolate?”
“Yes, I think that’s everything,” Killer told me.
A knock came from the door as I wondered who was there. I looked to Killer out of worry about who it was, but he simply walked over and opened the door. A star-theme Papyrus stood in the doorway with a huge smile on his face. This was Outer’s brother, right?
“Greetings teary-eyed brother” the Papyrus loudly greeted, “How’s the mini creator doing?”
Ug, don’t call me mini creator…
“Easter, have you met Galaxy yet?” Killer asked me, “He’s… Outer’s brother.”
“No, Easter hasn’t met yet,” Palette told him.
“Well, now you have met the great Papyrus,” Galaxy told me as bent down as if to pick me up.
Not wanting to be picked up, I went behind Killer.
“Anyways,” Killer decided to move on, “Easter wanted to make lunches for everybody earlier, so we did.”
“That sounds much better than greasy space dogs” Papyrus stated, “I’m sure the mini creator’s dishes shall be fit for kings.”
Was he trying to compliment me? I still really hate that nickname…
“Anyways, my brother said we should meet up at the park” Galaxy continued, “Shall we get going?”
“Yeah, just as soon as somebody here gets some socks and shoes on” Killer looked to me.
Not long after that, we wore on our way to the park. Not wanting to get distracted and walked off a cliff, I reached for Killer’s hand. Killer casually held my hand, but I notice Galaxy staring before trying to offer his own hand. Confused, I stared at it. I only needed one hand to hold after all.
“So mini creator” Galaxy started after seeing I didn’t want to hold his hand, “Did you do any projects lately?”
Again, with that nickname? What is he trying to sell me? Why do assume I have projects?
“Easter, why don’t you tell Galaxy about that jar of beans yesterday?” Killer asked.
“Beans have great sound” Palette stated, “Feels really good on Easter’s bones when hand swimming through them.”
“Ah, I see… what about a coloring project?” Galaxy asked me.
“Easter likes her paper, white” Palette told him.
“Building?” Galaxy asked next.
“Easter likes to sort blocks” Palette stated.
“Um… popsicle stick projects?” Galaxy looked a bit worried.
“Easter loves chocolate,” Palette told him.
“She means she’ll lick them clean, but she hasn’t shown interest in using them for building” Killer explained.
Galaxy thought for a moment before asking Killer, “Are we sure that her dad is Ink?”
“Yes, she made… a few things with her magic” Killer told him, “Why?”
“Deals with a rumor” Galaxy told him.
Killer sighed, “What sort of silly rumor is it?”
“That Cross is her real dad since… you know how he hangs out with Dream all the time,” Galaxy told him.
Killer looked annoyed, “That idiot? She doesn’t look anything like him.”
“Easter is a chocolate goblin” Palette giggled as I wanted to change the direction of the conversation.
“You are?” Galaxy asked, “Did Killer tell you that?”
I guess while Galaxy did refer to Killer as a brother earlier, I don’t think the two saw eye socket to eye socket. Seeing their height difference, the two would have a tough time seeing things at the same eye level. Oh wait, that's not what eye socket to eye socket means...
“No, Uncle Taco did” Palette corrected, “Then Cwoss asked if he could be the chocolate goblin king, and Easter didn’t like that idea.”
“Why’s that?” Killer had a grin.
“Cwoss be the bottom of the food chain,” Palette told him in a way that Killer would find amusing, “The other skeletons kept whispering bad stuff about Cwoss. Easter thinks Mama takes Cwoss for… like he’ll always be nearby.”
“Serves him right” Killer laughed.
“Killer, that’s not a nice thing to say,” Galaxy told him.
Killer shrugged and laughed.
Things went quietly after that and soon we spotted our destination. At the park, we waited a bit for Color and Outer to show up. Galaxy asked if I wanted to play on the playground, but a few children were already using it. What if they wore children raised by a secret government that was sent to kill the reincarnated destroyer?
“Easter, do your parents ever let you play with other kids?” Killer asked me.
“Easter played with Goth at Halloween party” Palette explained.
Killer thought for a moment before saying, “Did you like Goth?”
“Goth and Easter destroy my stuff toys” Palette giggles.
“I bet it led to quite a scolding” Galaxy suggested.
“No, Mama said it was okay when Goth mama came by,” Palette told him.
Soon Outer and Color appeared and sat at the table along with…
“Sorry we’re late,” Outer told us.
“It’s okay,” Killer told Outer before turning to a skeleton, “So… Geno… I see Death been treating you well.”
“Gothy?” Palette asked as I saw the marshmallow child with Geno.
“Butterfly?” Goth asked as if he only remembered that one detail.
“Oh, so that’s why you kept asking to see butterfly” Geno realized, “do you think Easter is a butterfly?”
“Yes, soul is ka… cwystal” Goth tried to say.
“Chwysalis” Palette corrected.
“Yeah, that” Goth nodded, “White moon.”
“Mama ask what color Easter wings would be” Palette explained, “Easter liked the white morpho.”
I just noticed how different Goth and I wore speaking. Was I supposed to be talking on Goth’s level? Do I remember things too clearly? What’s normal child behavior?
“Sandwiches, Easter made,” Palette told them while changing topics.
“Mustard?” Goth asked.
I tilted my head as Palette asked, “Mustard?”
Goth nodded, “Goth loves mustard.”
Killer spoke up, “No, we didn’t put mustard on them.”
Goth puffed his cheeks, “Goth wants mustard!”
“I think some of Uncle Red’s unhealthy habits are rubbing off on him” Geno sighed, “I know Edge loves babysitting… I mean training, Goth, and Red is still learning how impressionable Goth is.”
“Really?” Killer tilted his head, “Easter, do you think you got any habits from me?”
I thought for a moment before Palette stated, “Pranks!”
“Oh yeah, I was going to teach you how to prank your folks back home” Killer snickered.
“Cows go moo,” Palette told him.
“Yes, Cross is terrified of cows” Killer had the evilest of smirks on his face.
“Anyways, I can go home and fetch some mustard if he really wants some” Galaxy offered.
“No, he’ll eat after a while,” Geno told him.
Soon the food was being sorted out and passed out to everybody.
“Oh, I forgot about the kitty cookie-cutter” Outer hummed, “These are so cute.”
“Duncle Nebby wanted it to be Easter’s idea,” Palette told him.
“Aw, that’s so sweet of you Killer” Color kissed Killer’s cheek.
Killer flustered a bit with, “it’s not like I spent hours finding it or getting one or anything.”
Everybody started to eat with light conversations about the weather today. Goth was a bit fussy and demanded mustard for a while before finally giving in and eating his food as well. His puffed-out marshmallow cheeks showed he was still unhappy about not having his way.
“Flying time, flying time” Goth stated as soon as he finished eating.
“Do you want the Great Papyrus to push you on the swing set?” Galaxy asked.
Goth looked around confused.
“I mean, do you want Galaxy to push you?” Galaxy corrected.
Goth nodded, “Yes.”
The two went off to the swing set as I softly munched on a baby carrot. I wonder if Goth meant that Reaper would fly him around the house or if Edge or Red uses blue magic on him. Either way, Goth seemed happy about the swing set.
“Does Easter want to join them?” Outer asked me.
“Okay” Palette stated as I finished eating.
Walking over slowly, I saw the empty swing next to Goth and slowly sat down in it. How does this work again? Leg swinging right? It’s like swinging from my… Error’s strings, right?
“Here, you go,” Galaxy said as I was suddenly drawn backward.
Before I could process the sudden movement, I rapidly moved forward. I swung back again and felt a hand push against my back. I clung tightly as I launched forward again. Freezing up, the next push felt like a paintbrush pushing against my back like… like…
Memories of one of Ink’s and myself, as Error, fight scenes started to play out in my head. I was rushing away, and Ink was in hot pursuit. I couldn’t go fast enough by swinging with my strings. The paint burning my back consumed my senses.
Slowly, I found myself being brought to a stop. Blinking a few times, I saw Killer in front of me. O-oh yes, I’m at the park with Goth.
“Easter, you, okay?” Killer asked me.
That’s right, this is a safe place. Safe, safe, safe, I am safe. Killer slowly brushed my hair as I let out the breath, I was holding in. After a few breaths, I nodded to say I was okay. Killer signal on if I wanted to get off, I shook no. He asked if I wanted to be pushed, I shook no, again.
Killer nodded and walked over to Galaxy, “She can handle swinging by herself.”
Galaxy groans, “You make it sound like I’m terrible with kids.”
“No, I’m saying she doesn’t want help” Killer replied, “besides, I think you're doing great with Goth.”
The two bickered with accusations but Killer left seeing there was no use fighting him. Was I really that abnormal of a child to warrant…?
“Higher, more, more” Goth giggled as Galaxy continued to push him.
Was that normal? Is that what being a normal child means? B-but… I don’t want to swing that high. I’ll… watch Goth for a while so I can take some notes. I don’t have to be the perfectly normal child, correct?

Chapter Text

“Egg” Palette huffed as I placed the gooey black egg into my suitcase.
“No, Easter, we told you that you couldn’t take the egg with you” Outer sighed and took the egg out.
“B-but…” Palette stammer as I looked for a solution, “how will Easter sleep?”
“You can… count sheep?” Outer suggested, “Like one sheep, two sheep, three sheep…”
“One wolf” Palette continued, “zero sheep.”
Outer looked at me nervously, “It seems that Killer’s sense of humor rubs off onto you.”
I shook my head as Palette stated, “no, Easter always like this.”
“Well… maybe you could ask your dad to make you a pillow shaped like an egg?” Outer decided to continue with the main conversation.
I don’t think a pillow can eat scary sleep.
“Outer, Horror message me about lamb chops and…” Killer entered the room, “Oh, yeah… Ink is coming by later… assuming he remembers.”
“Easter will miss Duncle Nebby” Palette stated.
“Yeah, I’ll miss you too…” Killer patted my head, “give Cross hell for me, will you?”
“Killer” Outer placed his hands on his hips.
Killer only seems to grin while telling me, “It’s not like Ink or Dream would punish her for teasing him… I’m quite sure they’ll even let her even get away with murder.”
“The council might decide to step in if that occurs,” Outer told him, “Didn’t we discuss how they reacted to the… um… Anyways, Easter, do you think you’ll be alright going back home?”
To what? The Stretch incident? Should I be worried about copycats?
“This home” Palette stated.
“I meant your real home” Outer clarified.
I thought for a moment before Palette asked, “safe?”
“Yes, it’s safe,” Outer told me, but that answer didn’t sell the idea to me…
Killer folded his arms, “Easter, you know if something happens, Color is normally over there during the day, right?”
“Easter finds Color first?” Palette asked.
Outer nodded, “Yes, if something is bugging you, just find Color, Alter, or myself.”
Outer didn’t say “Ink” or “Dream” … that seemed odd to me. Though I don’t think I want to approach Ink since he’ll forget the trouble two seconds later. Dream seemed to care about the scary sleep situation but… Dream ignored me the last time I saw him… Maybe I should avoid him for now…
“Okay” Palette finally answered Outer even though it wasn’t a question.
“Speaking of safe” Killer started, “once you leave here, you need to act like you don’t know me.”
“Easter knows,” Palette told him, “Duncle Nebby makes stab horses, and council no likes the stabby horse.”
“That’s right” Killer hummed.
Outer had mixed expressions but kept quiet as he zipped up my suitcase.
“Easter let’s see Nebby off before watching some puppets” Outer spoke with a smile.
“Puppets!” Palette shouted with a giggle.

Later, a doorbell came while I was watching the puppets on the tv. Outer went to get it while sending out a quick text… most likely an “Ink is here, stay away” memo. Ug, I don’t want to go home…
“Outer, sorry about being late” Ink spoke as I wondered what time he was supposed to come, “Cross just reminded me and… Easter, did you have fun with Outer?”
I nodded but kept watching the tv. Maybe Outer and Cross set up an earlier time since they expected that forgetful Ink would come later than planned. Ug, why did they have to plan that detail so annoying? I want to stay here.
“Hey Ink, I have her bag packed and she already had breakfast” Outer explained.
Ink nodded, “great, Easter, can you come to dada-père?”
Can it wait? Ug, fine, I’ll come over since the show ended. What do you want?
“Can you tell Outer “Merci d'avoir pris soin de moi”?” Ink asked of me.
I know that’s French, but what was Ink asking me to say again? Must be some form of thanking Outer for taking care of me. Yeah, I should thank Outer for taking me away from that place.
“Mercy,” Palette spoke as a shortened version of that.
“D’avoir” Ink spoke the next word as if he’s expecting me the whole thing.
Attempting to say the whole sentence word by word. Ink smiled as I managed to speak the last word. Outer listened the whole time and patted my head when I finished.
“No problem, Easter,” Outer told me.
“Aw, you’re so cute saying such a nice thank you in French” Ink cooed, “now are you ready to go?”
“No” Palette huffed.
“No?” Ink tilted his head, “why?”
“Easter wants stay” Palette bluntly told him.
Outer softly laughed, “She really likes it here.”
“Ah, Easter, ma fille, père would like you to come home,” Ink told me, “We could get some chocolate nice cream before we head out again.”
Head out again? We wore going somewhere else after we return home? Though chocolate nice cream before lunch will really annoy Dream. Ha, that’ll show Dream to ignore me even though that happened a week ago.
“Outer,” Palette started, “bye-bye hug.”
Outer snickered, “wow, you turned around quickly for some nice cream.”

After Ink took me home, he put my suitcase in my room before heading to grab the nice cream. Instead of a normal bowl, he grabs a disposable one and plops a single scoop of chocolate delight into it.
“More” Palette asked.
“No, there is no more,” Ink told me and showed me the empty container.
But Easter wants more!
“Easter, we should get going if we don’t want to be late” Ink said as he picked me up, “Can you eat in this position?”
I slowly nodded. Late to what though? What’s going on?
“Oh, we should leave Palette here, we don’t want him to get lost,” Ink told me as he took the puppet off my hand and put it on the dining table.
Lost? Wait, are we heading into an AU? But don’t most of the meetings happen in the other branch of this place?
Ug, I wish I still had Palette to ask my questions… For all I know, Ink was taking me to some trap or… Nono, calm down, Ink still adores me which means Ink still views me as his kid.
Opening my mouth, I had to know. “Où?” was the only thing that came out of my mouth.
“Are you trying to say “où allons-nous?” or “where are we going?”” Ink asked before answering, “We’re seeing your… weird goopy uncle about a temporary truce, your mama and Cross are already there.”
Weird goopy uncle? Hang on, Nightmare?! I know Abyss talked about it, but I didn’t think you guys would move this fast.

“Easter, we’re here,” Ink said as we came through a painted portal.
The location was a legitimate AU with an official-looking building in front of us. Looking around, this must have been an AU with a pacifist ending as we’re above ground with monsters and humans casually walking around. I guess this was the best spot both sides would allow for a meeting as the locals wouldn’t attempt to get involved lest starting a war.
“Look at how elegantly the marble was cut,” Ink asked while gesturing to the building.
Yep, this building is being held up by rocks… what about it?
Ink noticed my lack of interest as he went on, “Also the shingles, maybe we could go up there later and see them up close?”
Sounds dangerous.
“Er… bushes, the gardener here must be talented” Ink told me.
I guess bushes make a soft-landing spot if I fall off the roof.
“The interior is filled with art,” Ink went on, “well not an art museum, but they should be nice to look at.”
I stuff the chocolate nice cream into my mouth. Chocolate is better than art… unless it’s chocolate art and I can eat it.
“Ink, finally” Dream spoke from the entrance of the building, “The meeting is about to start, and Nightmare has been wondering if you’re up to something.”
“Right, right” Ink picked up his pace, “you sure we don’t have a moment to look at the paintings?”
“No, we need to head in now” Dream frowned with his arms on his hips.
Ink took me inside as I saw members of the council chatting among themselves. Were they planning to attend the meeting itself? I hope not, things will turn to havoc quickly.
I felt Ink’s arms tighten slightly as he started to form a question, “Dream, don’t you think the council being here will only…”
“While we may be the ones speaking to Nightmare, the council needs to agree to whatever terms we conclude to. It’s best they're here to get this done quickly and in a single day no less.”
Wait, did Ink tighten his grip on me out of mistrust? Outer did sound like the council wasn’t a fan of the fake blueberry even if he didn’t say it bluntly. Did the council believe Stretch’s lies or something? Wait, where is Cross? After what happened at Epic’s house, I hope Cross isn’t here.
“Are you finished with your nice cream, ma fille?” Ink asked me.
Oh, I ate it all… yes, I’m done.
Ink took the bowl and put it into a nearby trashcan. Ink took his scarf and started to attack my face with it. H-hey what sort of trap is this!?
“S-sorry, there was just some chocolate on your face” Ink explained.
I lightly licked my finger and rubbed my face to get the chocolate off. I want to eat the chocolate and not waste it on your stupid scarf. Besides, it’ll be a bad show if Horror saw any trace amount of food going to waste you know.
Ink snorted, “aw, your pouting face is so adorable.”
“Ink, you need to be serious right now” Dream stated as he stopped in front of a double door.
Ink made a fake serious face, “Serious okay.”
Dream glared at him for a second before slowly opening the door, “I’m sorry for the wait, we’re here now.”
“That’s an hour after the time we’re supposed to start” Nightmare grumbled, “Are you sure your guys are serious about a stupid piece of paper?”
Looking into the room, everybody in the gang, aside from Blueberry, was there. Horror looked bored… or hungry… most likely hungry. Dust was glancing around as if looking for any sign of ambush… or his ghost papyrus was floating around while saying something to him. Killer eyed me but I couldn’t tell if it was out of nervousness or concern. Nightmare seemed to remain in place with a poker face displayed, but his tentacles seemed to wave around as if annoyed.
“Look, the council just wants to focus their attention on the other problem, and it seems like that problem is causing some trouble for you guys, correct?” Dream sounded annoyed himself.
“Maybe, maybe not” Killer hummed, “We’ve got all the time in the world to play your silly truce game, but I can’t say the same for you and that council out there.”
Dream frowned, “So I assume you want to make outlandish changes to the council’s offer.”
“Outlandish is such a strong word” Dust seemed to smirk, “More like… making sure we don’t get backstabbed by those so-called “good doers”.”
“You think I’ll just agree to any of those new terms after what happened to Easter?” Dream counter.
The gang looked confused and looked at each other but most of their gaze focused on Killer who shook his head no. Nightmare twitched as his tentacles waved around wildly. I couldn’t see Dream’s expression as he went to take a seat. Ink followed suit but slowly turned me so I couldn’t see Dream directly. Ink pressed his scarf to my face again as I noticed that my nose was leaking a gold liquid like back when Abyss and Lunar visited.
“And you think we’ll just agree to any demand after what happened to Error?” Nightmare finally counter.
“He was the destroyer; Easter was just a child” Dream hissed.
“Was?” Nightmare tilted his head, “That tiny pile of EXP looks like “just a child” to me.”
“What are you talking about?” Dream asked before raising his voice, “That thing Ink is holding is just some doll he made after her death!”

Chapter Text

W-wait, did Dream just say that I… I died, that I was dead-dead? N-no, Dream is just saying that to take advantage of the situation. He… He couldn’t believe that… But Dream has been ignoring me lately…
Ink, Dream, Nightmare, and Killer started to yell over each other as my mind couldn’t keep up. Everything was loud yet not a single sound reached me. A ringing inside my skull echoed as I couldn’t process the current shouting.
Suddenly the four went quiet as their gazes shifted to me. Did they ask me a question? Do they believe what Dream is saying?
“Ma fille” Ink softly spoke to me, “You’re shaking like an autumn leaf on a windy day. Is all the yelling scary?”
As Ink said that I noticed the sound of my own bones rattling. Was I… scared? If Dream thinks I’m dead, that means I’ll get less attention… right? That’s not it… losing Dream means losing Cross, the bodyguard. Who’s going to keep me safe from the council and those like Stretch if I don’t have a protector?
“Ma… ma” whistled from my teeth.
“Why don’t you put your silly doll outside if it can’t behave” Dream responded.
Killer quickly grabbed Dream’s cape’s collar as he moved to punch him. A tentacle stops Killer from committing the act much to Killer’s annoyance. It took a while before the glare from Nightmare forced Killer into letting Dream go. Seconds later, Killer was pushed out of the room as a form of punishment for acting out.
“Sorry about him” Nightmare coughed, “He’s not normally acting out like that.”
“Really? That seemed more like an intentional act of war” Dream had a strange smile on his face.
Ink sighed, “Dream, I thought we wore here to make a truce, not to start a war. Unless you’re telling me that my memory is incorrect.”
Dream tsked as he frowned.
“Easter, do you want to step outside and away from your scary mama?” Ink rubbed my cheekbone.
Nodding, I wanted to go check on Killer. He’s not the type to get that upset on someone’s behalf. I should see if Color is nearby so he can talk to him without the other skeletons worrying about if Killer trying to “brainwash” me or something.
Ink took me outside the room and gently placed me on the ground, “Wait right here. Don’t go anywhere. This place is big, and dada doesn’t want you to get lost.”
After I slowly nodded, Ink left and closed the door. Looking around, I spotted Killer already talking to Color. Good, that makes my life simple.
“Easter, did your mama say some scary stuff?” Color asked me as he noticed me walking up to them.
I nodded as I knew Killer must have filled in Color about the basics already. Reaching up, I wanted to be picked up to make sure other skeletons don’t think I’m getting too close to Killer on my own. Color lifted me as I looked over to Killer.
“Okay Killer, continue” Color rubbed my back while he held me.
“I can’t believe Dream said all that” Killer spoke as his soul shifted around, “It just makes me… want to punch him in the face. Which I… did try to do… Boss kicked me out…”
Reaching over, I went to pat Killer’s head.
“Thanks, Easter, but are you okay? Hearing all that from Dream…” Killer replied.
“E… Easter heard… doll… than… sounds went bye-bye” stammered from me.
Color rubbed my head, “Did those words shock you that much?”
Nodding, I sniffled as my sockets started to leak.
Killer told me, “Dream is just being crazy. Even Ink stated that all that happened was that he had to make a new body for you and didn’t even make a new soul or anything like that.”
Er… what? Does that mean my soul actually reincarnated but didn’t find a new body? It would explain why Dream said all that mean stuff. Or maybe my soul was okay, but Medic decided that a few broken ribs were enough to warrant a body transfer? Oh, come on, I survive with more broken ribs than that.
“Killer” Color softly hissed but told me, “He just means that nobody believes in what Dream said. So don’t worry about it and… keep away from your mama until he comes to his senses.”
“Mama loves… Easter… wight?” I asked Color.
“Yes, he’s just… confused” Color tried to explain, “It’s like you're wearing a costume and your mama is having a hard time seeing through it.”
“At this point, it’s best to say that Dream doesn’t love her” Killer responded, “If I’d almost lost… you know who, I’d rather keep ‘em close than push ‘em away.”
“While I understand the sentiment” Color replied, “Dream thinks Easter is something Ink replaced not Easter herself. If you wore a Star Sans and Ink replaced something dear to you, how’d that make you feel?”
Killer thought before saying, “stabby, but we know that’s not what happened.”
“I’ll talk to Alter about it…” Color whispered something to Killer.
It was most likely about me being Killer’s adopted kid in the long run. Killer had a smile while whispering a positive remark. Yeah, we could play Dream’s “insanity” in our favor.
“Wait…” I softly interrupted as I thought of something, “what about making a baby bone, first?”
Both of them flushed. Was it that weird to say? It’ll be harder to focus on a baby bone if they’re taking care of me… right? Didn’t they want baby bones of their own?
“That’s a good point. I’ll let Outer know to wear his special PJs tonight” Color pulled out his phone to text.
What do special PJs have to do with making baby bones?
Killer gasped, “tonight? But what about your job and the truce?”
“It’s not like a baby bones is made in a day” Color chuckled, “and I didn’t hear a no.”
Killer blushed while saying, “I’ll let boss know that I’m doing my own thing after today’s meeting.”
Glancing at Color’s phone, he messaged Outer about wearing some sheep costume. Outer asked if he meant the galaxy wool one before using a winky face emote. This was followed by Outer saying that the mutton will be ready at a certain time. He was talking about food, right?
“Mutton?” I asked Color.
Color put his phone away, “Yeah, mutton is a type of meat. Like pork and beef.”
Ah, so they are talking about dinner.
“Oh Killer,” Color hummed with a smile on his face, “Outer says mutton will be ready at seven, so don’t be late.”
“So, we’re going in for the full course?” Killer asked, “We’re all ready?”
“Yep” Color nodded, “unless you say otherwise.”
Killer looked around before saying, “Yeah, I’m ready now. Just… can I give you guys something before we eat?”
“Of course,” Color smiled softly.
“I better go make sure I’m ready-ready” Killer told him and walked off.
Was Killer talking about the engagement knives? Sounds like dinner will be more of a celebration than just simply eating. I hope it goes well.
“I wonder what he has planned” Color bounced me lightly, “looks like you know. It must be a wonderful surprise.”
I playfully zipped my teeth and threw away the key.
“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Color laughed as he ruffled my hair.

Color soon started to play some weird game called “patty cake” with me while we waited for the meeting to be over. The strange movements were hard to remember as Color worded out the song. After a while, I figured out that this patty cake was like cat’s cradle but without any strings involved and we did the same actions at the same time.
“Thank the stars, I was worried we would have to skip lunch” Ink stated as he left the meeting room.
“Don’t forget, we need to update the council on the revision before we can eat” Dream told him.
Ink sighed, “Can’t you do that by yourself? Easter must be half-starved by now.”
Dream put his hands on his hips, “No, you need to explain to the council why you allowed these changes.”
Ink groaned before noticing me and taking a swig of one of his yellow-themed vials to change his expression, “Easter, did Color keep a good eye socket on you?”
I nodded and went up to Ink.
“Thanks, Color” Ink patted my head, “Was she any trouble?”
“No, once she calmed down, we had a nice game of patty cake” Color explained, “Didn’t we Easter?”
“Choco cake” I answered.
“That’s good” Ink patted my head, “Easter, ma fille, can you wait a bit longer for lunch? Dada-Pere needs to give a report to the council.”
Only if you give me extra chocolate for waiting.
“Do you want to come with dada-Pere, or do you want to wait here?” Ink asked me.
If I waited, I could talk to Nightmare. Pointing to the ground, I told Ink what I wanted.
“Alright,” Ink hummed, “Just know that Color is coming with us for the meeting which means you’ll be all alone, is that okay?”
I nodded.
“I’ll be back as soon as I can” Ink told me and left with Color and Dream.
I waved and waited for them to leave my field of vision before turning to the meeting doors. Finally, I can talk to Nightmare directly… Hopefully, he’s not too broken about Dream’s claim about me being dead and that I might have used my reincarnation skill.

Chapter Text

Horror and Dust left the meeting room as I peeked in. Nightmare still sitting while rubbing his skull like he had a headache. Should I wait for the headache or step in now?
“N-Night?” I softly spoke as I felt my nose starting to leak magic again.
“What” Nightmare snapped before seeing me and softly asked, “Oh… you alone?”
I looked down the hallway both ways before saying, “yes.”
Closing the door and heading to a chair. I slowly scrambled to take my seat. A small, amused chuckle came from Nightmare during my rock-climbing trial.
“So… nice to see you alive” Nightmare started, “I was quite surprised when Blueberry came into the mansion while rambling with a torn-out page in hand.”
I nodded.
“About your current form…” Nightmare narrowed his eye light, “Any idea what happened?”
I shook my head, “No…”
“I doubt it’s a simple case of reincarnation gone wrong” Nightmare sighed, “Has Cross been acting strange?”
I shook my head. While I did find Cross’s behavior a bit off the last time I saw him, it was only because Dream was off. Dream was off because…
“I see” Nightmare rubbed his skull, “I still won’t rule him out. That idiot and Dream are still at the top of my list.”
I nodded but… the stuff Dream was saying.
“Speaking of Dream” Nightmare started before asking, “Do you think you reincarnated with only him looking?”
“Possible,” I told him, “but it doesn't make sense… Easter woke up in hospital not elsewhere…”
“That could be a result of why you ended up as Easter” Nightmare rubbed his skull, “or you inherited a trait from Dream. You do know we weren’t born with physical bodies, right? If it’s a newly inherited trait, your condition for reincarnation changes to where your soul is formed without the need for a physical host or body. Which would explain why Ink stated that he made an empty shell.”
I tilted my head.
“Does, you died, and your soul reincarnated without finding a suitable body to inhabit sound easier to understand?” Nightmare asked.
I slowly nodded.
“Course that’s assuming that Dream is telling the truth… or saw what really happened but came wrong conclusion” Nightmare coughed, “I’d be careful around him though, he might do something dramatic like earlier.”
I nodded, “Easter understands.”
“Will you be okay with Ink handling your needs though?” Nightmare asked me.
I slowly nodded, “If not, Easter will talk to Alter… and Color, Outer.”
“Killer did take a liking to you” Nightmare mentioned as if remembering, “Said you wore born into the wrong family.”
I snorted and tried to hide a giggle but quickly failed. That’s an understatement, Duncle.
“Despite the lack of glitching, you still have the same laugh” Nightmare commented before quickly saying, “Anyways, overall, it appears it’s safer for you to remain with Ink. So don’t be too eager to get your ideal parents.”
I stuck out my tongues. Being anywhere near the council, and Ink, is more dangerous "overall".
“Easter, I’m serious” Nightmare folded his arms, “the stupid firewall Ink has on that pocket AU is much safer than being exposed in a normal AU.”
Being exposed?
“Remember your run-in with Fatal Error, correct?” Nightmare started, “I want you to avoid him at all costs.”
You make it sound like he’s after me or something…
Just then, the door clicked open, and we both turned to see who was there. A rather calm Dream holding papers was in the doorway as he didn’t seem to notice me. Nightmare straightens up as if preparing for a verbal argument.
“The council is going to go over the changes in detail over lunch but they're upset about the territory labels and rules,” Dream said as he handed Nightmare the papers, “Any star-aligned territory must be free of you and your crew. Unless you have a good counteroffer…”
Nightmare looked over the page before asking, “what if we had star-neutral territory? The turf would still fall under your care but open enough to allow approved crew members to pass through as long as they don’t cause trouble?”
“You trust your crew enough for that?” Dream frown.
“Only for the AUs I’m thinking of” Nightmare leaned back.
Dream stared for a moment before asking, “I’ll pass on the message then… as soon as you explain why you’re speaking to Ink’s doll.”
I swallowed.
“She’s curious,” Nightmare told him, “Would you rather send her out crying and make a negative scene in front of the council?”
Dream lightly stomped his foot, “Like you care how the council sees you.”
“Why give them a reason to cancel the truce?” Nightmare rhetorically asked him.
Dream’s face slowly changes expressions as I felt a shiver down my spine. Leaving my chair, I decided to leave before Dream does anything. Most likely, Dream would harm me just to put the blame on Nightmare.
“Oh, doll” Dream turned to me, “where are you going?”
I froze just as my hand touched the doorknob.
“Dream, I can tell that you’re trying really hard to stop this truce” Nightmare’s voice lowered, “but is harming your daughter, doll or not, and betraying Ink’s trust worth it?”
Dream seemed to think for a moment before grinning, “If Ink doesn't know that I was the one that damaged his silly doll…”
Opening the door, I quickly went to look for Ink before Dream could grab me. Rushing down the hallway where Ink went, I scanned for where the council members were gathering. I spotted Red first as I went over to him to ask for directions… or at least prevent Dream from breaking an arm or something.
“Eh, did one of Nightmare’s crew give you a scary face or somethin’?” Red asked as he noticed me.
I shook my head before pointing to my mouth.
“Grub? That way” Red pointed, “Ink also went that way after quickly spilling beans about the meeting… The council also headed in that direction to eat and talk at the same time… gross.”
Hearing footsteps, I hid behind Red as a bone shield. Red turned to give me a weird look but got distracted by Dream coming down the hallway. He didn’t move as if he got a sense of the situation from my expression from earlier.
“Hey Dream, lookin' for somebody?” Red asked.
Dream smiled with, “As long as Ink hasn’t left the building, no.”
Red nodded, “So… about Easter…”
Dream frowned with, “What about that thing?”
I shivered behind Red.
“Never mind then,” Red told him.
Dream quickly regained his composure and walked off. So… he’s not going to try and attack me right now? Red is pretty tough which would mean a lot of trouble for Dream if he did something directly. Still, it feels weird for Dream to suddenly drop interest and pretend like that conversation back there didn’t happen…
“Did you do somethin’?” Red asked me, “It’s not like Dream to suddenly switch like that.”
I shook my head.
“Do you know what happened?” Red asked.
I slowly nodded but shrugged.
“I’ll message Ink and tell him we’re getting some fresh air,” Red told me, “The council was already rough on me for just wantin’ to sign it already.”
Was Red for the truce? He did come from a violent AU so maybe the idea of any type of turf war stopping was a good thing for him… He was also friends with Geno and Reaper so he might be more understanding than the average Sans.
“You’re lucky that little Goth rubs off on me” Red mumbled after a bit, “that and I know you have an underfell spirit so whatever happened must have been a nasty fight.”
Oh, he must be referring to the stare I used towards Ink.
“Red” a voice came from down the hallway, “have you seen… oh… never mind.”
A small fluffy skeleton walked toward us. It made sense Abyss was here due to bringing up the idea of truce, but was he looking for me? Also where was Lunar?
“You lookin' for something’ softy?” Red grin.
“Not anymore” Abyss replied.
Red grumbled, “Since you’re not busy then, you can deliver a message to Ink.”
“Sure, what’s that?” Abyss swallowed.
“That Easter will be out front for some surface air,” Red told him as he pointed towards my face, “Make sure Ink heads there with some food for her since she’s lost quite a bit of magic from an LV flare-up.”
“The term is magic overflow,” Abyss told him, “Easter doesn’t have LV to have a flare-up.”
Magic overflow? Oh, were they talking about my leaky nose? I guess there is a lot of it on my dress now… Now, what was magic overflow again? That was when a monster had to magic that it leaks out, right? No, I don’t think that’s the cause of the leaky nose…
“I see, I’ll let him know right away,” Abyss said as he turned to leave.
Red turned to me, “Now, let’s get away from those idiots.”
Reaching up, I lightly touched Red’s hand. Who knows when Dream might try something and… I rather make sure I’m with somebody that’s a good shied.
Red sighed, “No, I don’t do hand-holding.”
Frowning, I pulled my hands away. While Geno sounded like he trusted Red a little with Goth, I’m not pushing my luck. This might be the softest Red is willing to be with me.
“So… are you going to tell me what happened between you and Dream?” Red asked.
No… it’s complicated and I rather not risk a scene from breaking out.
Red ruffled in his jacket, “If I remember correctly, you had a weakness for chocolate.”
Chocolate? Tempting… maybe I’ll say something…
“Or maybe I should just ask Ink first” Red hummed, “You don’t seem like the type to kill and tell.”
Oh, if I weren’t in this stupid tiny body, I’d tell you about my kills. Of course, if I were still Error, I wouldn’t be here.
Reaching outside, I noticed that the air felt lighter out there. Guess all the tension of the meetings was trapped inside… Either way, it felt much better out here.
“Looks like a lot of weight got left behind inside” Red commented, “How stuffy wore the emotions in there?”
Huh?
“Oh um…” Red rubbed his skull, “Dream once mentioned he could… sense folks and their emotions. Assumed you could do the same… forget I said anythin’.”
Doing just that, I went to a nearby bench to wait for Ink. Red did the same as he pulled out a huge bottle of mustard. He started to drink it as I waved my legs around.
“So…” Red eventually spoke up, “Do I need to tell you a story, or is just sittin’ here okay?”
Sitting is okay.
“Cool” Red leaned back as his shoulders relaxed, “I’ve been told that my stories ain’t child friendly.”
Guess it relates to when Geno said that Goth was impressionable. Did Goth pick up more bad habits than just drinking mustard? Goth did enjoy tearing apart toys that first time we meant so…

“Easter, a birdy, I mean a pegasus told me that you came out here” Ink called out from the entrance, “He told me to also grab lunch.”
I raised both my arms and waved to Ink. Ink came over and kissed my forehead before handing me a crumpled newspaper. Was this food?
“I couldn’t decide between ham and turkey, so I got ham” Ink explained, “I also didn’t know if you wanted ketchup or mustard…”
The newspaper was ham? Should I just bite the whole thing? Or maybe the newspaper is like the chocolate wrapper that Blueberry told me that I shouldn’t eat.
“I don’t think the princess is used to commoner food handouts” Red chuckled.
Commoner food handouts? Also, do not call me princess.
Ink unwrapped the newspaper, “Look, it’s a croissant sandwich with ham, cheese, and lettuce. Do you want ketchup or mustard in your sandwich?”
Neither I don’t want to drink ketchup or mustard right now. Ketchup reminds me of Ink drinking his red vial and I don’t want to get Red in trouble if I seemed to pick up his habit. Besides, I would much rather drink chocolate milk.
“Chocolate” I squeaked for my answer.
“Yes, I did pick up a fresh box of chocolate milk for you to drink” Ink pulled out a box and opened it before placing a straw inside, “but do you want ketchup or mustard?”
I tilted my head. I had a drink, why do I need more?
“No” I finally answered.
“I’ll take the mustard off your hands,” Red told Ink as he didn’t hesitate to take the mustard.
Picking up my sandwich, I stared at it as I wondered if it was safe. Tearing off a chunk, I held it up to Ink. Ink seemed to recall my food questioning habit and ate the offered piece. Seeing him swallowing, I went to eat my food without question.
“Cutting to the chase, I saw Dream acting weird when I mentioned Easter” Red started with Ink, “What’s up with that?”
Ink stared at him for a moment before going, “Did you bring that little mew mew headgear I got you?”
Red growled, “No, I threw it out.”
Ink gasped, “Why? You need those ears to magically transform into a magical girl to fight the dark side of the moon and…”
Ink rambled enthusiastically as I tilted my head. Magical girl? What’s a magical girl?
“Ink, I’m not playing pretend for that stupid story you wrote” Red hissed, “Isn’t this the hundredth time I told you no this week?”
“Aw, but Easter needs a strong feminine figure” Ink whined.
“Don’t forget the chaos that god_level_fanboy caused a decay ago with that stupid story website” Red grumbled, “I refuse to go near that can of worms even if it won me second place in that stupid popularity contest. Course nobody could deny that the original was the original at the end but…”
I’m very, very confused. Did Blueberry ever mention a popularity contest? I do remember that Blue tried to hold some sort of Blueberry is great party. Was it actually Blue trying to regain some self-confidence because of that popularity contest?
“So, who should be Easter’s role model?” Ink asked after Red’s rant.
“Taco!” I answered.
“Easter, Blueberry is your uncle, he can’t be your role model also,” Ink told me.
I frown, why not?
“Look, Goth is already mimicking me, I don’t need a second fragile bone to do the same” Red sighed, “So no, I’m not being Little Mew Mew. You can grab somebody from that genderswap branch of AUs to be this role model figure.”
Ink frowned, “But mew mew.”
“Don’t mew mew me” Red hissed at him, “Now if you don’t mind, I have a mustard bottle that needs drinking.”
Red stomped off while drinking that mustard bottle.
“I’ll take that as a maybe on the little mew mew!” Ink yelled his way before turning to me, “Does Easter want to be a magical cat girl when she grows up?”
I shook my head.
“Oh… so what animal does Easter want to be as a magical girl?” Ink asked.
What even is a magical girl and what does it have to do with animals?
“Stab horse” I told him.
Ink looked confused for a moment before making a horn and putting it on my head.
“A unicorn magical girl, interesting…” Ink thought before saying, “No, let’s do this alicorn style.”
What’s an alicorn? He’s… making wings… No! The wings are too much. I’m just a stab horse, nothing more.
“K, just a unicorn horn, some horse ears… let’s braid your hair and give you a little cute horsetail,” Ink told me.
Whatever is going on in Ink’s head, sounds like I’m going to play dress-up once I’m finished eating. Or right now… Ink decided to start playing with my hair. He even had some form of paint out as he colored portions of my hair. I want to be annoyed, but maybe I can get away from the meeting if I’m “horsing” around.

Chapter Text

“Now, let’s add some skull paint” Ink chuckled as he finishes adjusting a tail onto me.
Said tail was yellow with a red-orange stripe that was tied around my waist. He also did the same color theme with my hair as he braided it from the right side of my skull to the left to hang over my shoulder. A headband with a pair of yellow horse ears and a red-orange horn was weaved around my hair to hide the band.
“Let’s see… should I do a daffodil?” Ink asked as he mixed paint.
I shook my head, “staw.”
“You want a star?” Ink asked, “Do you want the determination star?”
I thought for a moment before nodding. I just wanted a star; I don’t really care about what kind. Though something more space themed would be nice…
“Okay, keep very, very still,” Ink told me as he lifted a tiny brush with yellow dripping from it.
A cold liquid touched my cheek, under my daffodil eye light, as I tried not to shiver. Normally, the texture of paint brought pain but… I’m okay with this. This is normal paint and not painful red paint. I can do this…
“A single star is kind of boring” Ink commented, “I’ll add some minor stars before brushing on some glitter.”
Glitter? That stuff looks like space, right? Yes, I want glitter.
“So… does Easter have a unicorn name?” Ink asked as he worked.
Unicorn name? Easter is Easter.
“How about…” Ink thought before suggesting, “Daffodil Star? Is that a good unicorn name?”
Daffodil Star? What does that even mean? Is that even a name?
“There we go,” Ink said as he pulled the tiny paintbrush away, “Now you’re a unicorn. Let’s get you a mirror…”
Ink painted a handheld mirror and handed it to me. Looking at it, I saw a white-boned skeleton in it. Oh yes, that’s me… I keep forgetting I don’t have black bones anymore.
“Stab horse, stab horse” I told Ink as I looked at myself.
“Yes, you’re the cutest unicorn ever” Ink commented.
A cough came as Ink and I noticed Abyss before he spoke, “The council finish their revisions to the revision. Dream wants you to meet up with him in the small meeting room to go over the changes while Nightmare does the same.”
“But I don’t want to go” Ink fussed.
Abyss sighed, “Ink, you’ll have more time to play with Easter after the truce is fully made.”
Ink thought before saying, “Fine, but Easter needs more fresh air. Can you keep an eye socket on her?”
Abyss nodded, “I can. Should I assume I’ll watch her until after the next talk with NIghtmare?”
“That’ll be for the best” Ink told him, “Though if it goes on for long, Easter might want a nap. If that happens, message me that you're taking her home.”
“I can do that” Abyss told him, “It’s not like the council is talking about work right now.”
“Thanks” Ink told me before adding, “Easter’s unicorn name is Daffodil Star. Make sure to take off the accessories, including paint, before letting her sleep to avoid any accidents. Also, I want to see pictures for the scrapbook.”
Abyss pulled out his phone, “Luckily, I installed a new crystal lens yesterday. My old one got a scratch and… well you get it.”
“Easter, Abyss is going to watch you,” Ink told me, “Since he’s a Pega-byss, I’m sure you two can think of some great horse games to play.”
I nodded.
“Oh, and one more rule Abyss” Ink turned to him, “Dream is acting funny, so under no circumstance let Dream near Easter right now. In fact, if you see Dream at the house, ask him if I’ve spoken to him about a sleeping arrangement. If I remember, he’ll know what that means. He might do a bit of packing before leaving.”
Abyss nodded, “I’ll keep that in mind.”
Wait, no follow-up questions? Abyss also was looking for me earlier… Did he see Dream and hear him mutter something scary?
Anyways, based on Ink’s words, it sounds like he’s making Dream sleep at Cross’s place. Good, I don’t want an insane skeleton walking into my room in the middle of the night. However, how long can Ink keep Dream away from the base?
“Also message me if you see Dream and tattle to me about his behavior” Ink stated, “I might ask you to relay information to Alter if things get… well, I don’t need to spell it out.”
“Okay, I’ll keep Daffodil Star safe from the scary Golden Apple,” Abyss told him, “Now hurry and go.”
Ink soon left as he waved goodbye to me. I waved back before turning to Abyss. Remembering his book of AUs, I need to remember that he’s a wild card and avoid slipping up.
“So, Easter, is there a game you want to play first?” Abyss asked me.
Tilting my head, I wasn’t sure what a horse theme game was.
“I know, let’s play tag,” Abyss told me, “Horses love to run, right?”
No, I could easily be out of sight. Maybe… I should do Abyss’s hair like what Ink did with me? But Abyss doesn’t have hair… He has fluff but no hair. Oh, Abyss needs a horse hairband! But how am I going to get that? Magic? Wait, I can use magic to make some.
Focusing hard, I wonder what sort of horse ears suited Abyss. Let’s start with something turquoise since that’s the color of Abyss’s Cell Core. Maybe add some blue to where the ears wore darker?
Popping into my hands, a crystal hairband came into existence. Hold on, crystal? Er… at least it has horse ears on it, and it was turquoise. I should be happy I made something functional instead of a potential weapon.
“For me?” Abyss asked as I held up the hairband, “Aw, thank you.”
After I gave him the hairband, he slowly adjusted it on his skull. He pulled out his phone as if perfecting the adjustments and paused for a bit as if taking a photo. Was he going to send an image to Lunar?
“Before we play, can you give me a big smile?” Abyss then asked, “something that says, “I’m okay”.”
Did he mean to say, “say cheese”? What does “I’m okay” mean? I don’t think that was the type of photo Ink asked for. If Nightmare wanted to know if I were okay, he would have asked Killer to tell Color… or just tell Color directly since Killer is busy. Was Abyss’s girlfriend somehow worried though? It’s not like we know each other well enough to warrant Lunar to be worried about me…
“Easter, why the confused look?” Abyss asked me.
Deciding that Abyss was “safe” for the moment, I tried to smile. Abyss didn’t look happy with my smile as he debated something. After a while, he took the photo and lowered his phone.
Abyss thought for a moment before saying, “Instead of a tag, how about walking around the garden just over there? After all, Daffodil Star sounds like just the unicorn that’ll enjoy a flower or a dozen.”
All because I trust you more than Dream right now doesn’t mean I trust you completely. However, since your actions recently can be interpreted that you’re on my side… I’ll allow it. Besides, it’s not often I can casually walk in a surface AU, aside from Outertale. Even as the creator’s daughter, I don’t think I’ll be outside-outside very often as most AUs is contained underground.
“Can you hold my hand while we walk there?” Abyss asked, “Just so I don’t get lost.”
Abyss doesn’t have a bad sense of direction. Was he really asking so other monsters assumed we’re family? Or he doesn’t want me running off the second I find out what he’s after…
Grabbing Abyss’s fluffy scarf seemed like a good compromise with Abyss’s request.
“That’s not really a hand,” Abyss told me, “But it’ll do.”
Abyss started to walk as I followed along. I noticed other monsters and humans as we walked as I wondered what the current relationship between the two races is. Sure, on paper things were peaceful, but individuals could reenact their own justice; akin to what Ink and Dream do towards me, as Error, and Nightmare plus crew.
“Look, that’s the guardian entrance” Abyss pointed, “It needs surface money called dollars and coins for entry which is why I made sure to trade in some Gs prior to today.”
Are we paying somebody to look at flowers? Sounds stupid… I don’t have to pay to look at stars, why are flowers different?
“One adult and one kid please,” Abyss asked as he gathered some green leaves.
“That’ll be five dollars for today,” the stationed person told him, “I notice a lot of skeletons next by, is something going on?”
“You could say so,” Abyss told him while putting down the cash, “Though if any of them come by, they're just looking for a place to slack off.”
“I see…” the stationed person responded before handing him two small papers, a long rectangle of paper and a colorful folded-up paper, “Here’s your tickets and receipt. Please keep them on you while staying since some of the folks here like to make pointless trouble.”
“Thank you” Abyss took the papers, “Easter do you want to hold your ticket?”
Looking down, I didn’t quite see a good ticket holding my pocket. I shook my head as I should be close to Abyss which means he can hold tickets. He nodded and put the tickets and receipt where he got the green leaves from.
“Merci” I squeaked to the stationed person.
“Aw, est-ce que tu parles français?” The stationed person responded.
“Peu” I told them.
The stationed person stated, “So she’s taking French classes?”
“Her dad speaks French from time to time,” Abyss told them, “He’s the one doing the teaching.”
“I see, well enjoy your visit,” the stationed person told us.
Abyss walked under the archway into the garden as I followed. He opened the colorful folded-up paper, and I noticed it was a map. He traces his figure along pathways as if calculating the best routes.
“Easter, do you want to choose where we go?” Abyss handed me the map.
Looking at the map, I saw a lot of different paths. Was this a puzzle for the most efficient route? Let’s see, we’re here and if we swoop that way curve around there… now too attached there to the here… I should use a pencil to dot it out.
Holding my hand flat, I use my other hand to draw along it.
“A pencil? Here” Abyss handed me a crystal pen.
Getting back to the map, I mark down the efficient route. Abyss watched and nodded as if that was the same solution he produced. Ha, I solved the puzzle! See, I’m a smart girl.
“That’s good, but is there anything you really, really want to see?” Abyss asked me.
I tilted my head.
“Okay, we’ll see a little bit of everything” Abyss concluded before asking, “Does Easter want her own camera to take photos of flowers she likes?”
Abyss pointed to a booth that had cameras and books. Thinking, I could use a camera to take photos of Dream being mean. Okay, I’ll take a camera.
Abyss went over to buy a camera along with a leash for the camera. He gently handed it to me saying I can wear the leash around my neck and followed with how to use it. He said it had a limited number of charges and that once it was out that was when we took it to a developer to get the pictures out.
“Now remember, I’ll be taking photos with my phone also” Abyss finally told me, “So don’t worry about if you run out of the film. Okay?”
I nodded and put on the camera. I should at least take a few photos here, so I have some leftovers for later. Hopefully, that’ll be enough for Abyss and I can take the camera home. With luck, Dream will see the camera and won’t do anything.
“Now do we need anything else before we go?” Abyss asked me.
Shaking my head, I walked in the direction of my map markings.

“Look, daffodils” Abyss pointed, “Just like your eye light.”
So… this is what my soul looks like. Sure, I got an idea in the mirror with my eye light but it’s hard to process an eye light’s 3d shape. Most eye lights are orbits and monster souls usually have a uniform heart shape, that humans claim is upside-down.
Lowering myself to get a better look, I needed to think about this. A tall teacup on a saucer, my soul is shaped like a tall teacup on a saucer… So, if Nightmare and Dream have apple-shaped souls and have a relationship with the tree of feelings which has apples, which means I should have a relationship with daffodils, right?
Abyss took out his phone as I assumed he was taking a photo of me for Ink. Should I lean in closer to the flowers? Yes, pretend like I’m smelling it.
Let’s see, it smelled like… new life? No, the scent reminds me of whenever I reincarnate… Strange, I don’t recall a smell when I reincarnate. There were also traces of sweetness and spice. It was a happy smell overall… I think…
“Does Easter like daffodils?” Abyss asked after a while.
I nodded.
Abyss smiled before pointing to my camera.
Oh yes, I can take a photo. Okay, I’ll take a photo. Let’s see, spin this, aim through the hole and click the button. A snap came from the camera to mark a successful capture.
“Great job, Easter” Abyss told me.
Great job? All I did was take a photo…
Abyss thought before asking, “How about we take a small break?”
Break? I guess my legs could use a rest.
Heading to a nearby bench, it was short enough for me to get on it with ease. Abyss sat next to me as he leaned back. He looked tired as he rubbed his sockets.
“So… Easter do you feel… better here?” Abyss asked me.
Better here? Like does this place make me better or is it good I’m away from the chaos that is Dream? Um… Let’s see… My bones feel a bit lighter out here.
“That’s good” Abyss sounded like his own bones also got lighter, “So since we’re away from… there… can I ask about why Ink sounded like Dream was dangerous?”
“Ma…” I squeaked out, “made Easter cry.”
“Can I ask for details?” Abyss followed up.
I shook my head.
“Okay then… but it’s safe to say that you didn’t do anything wrong?” Abyss wondered.
Well… not intentionally… It’s not my fault that my reincarnation skill has a mind of its own.
Abyss looked at my reaction before saying, “Easter, whatever happened, it’s not your fault. At this point, if Dream does anything it’ll be all on him. That means you’re allowed to tattle to Ink, Alter, myself… anybody else that nearby.”
At this point? So, it’s okay for Dream to act weird since the accident and his behavior at the meeting, and let’s not forget the direct threat he made. Well… maybe Abyss is including events before now. I get the feeling that Abyss misinterpret the situation…
Abyss kept quiet for a while before saying, “do you want to tell me anything about Dream?”
“Ma… scawy” I answered.
“Yes, Dream can be very scary” Abyss agreed with me, “Which is why it’s important to say when Dream is being scary so that somebody can give Dream a good talking to.”
I process it for a moment before saying, “Ma thweaten huwt Easter stop twuce…”
“He did what?” Abyss sounded shocked, “No wonder Ink said Dream shouldn’t be near you. Are you okay?”
“No injuly” I told him.
Abyss repeated, “I’m asking if you’re okay mentally.”
Am I okay mentally? Um…
“Sad” I answer, “Easter thought ma was mama.”
That was an answer to his question, right? He was asking about my current state of emotion, right? I don’t think I answer that question the way it was meant to be answered…
“Yes, I thought so too” Abyss agreed with me, “Dream even once came to me with some questions about you… I didn’t think he would suddenly turn around like this.”
Dream went to Abyss with questions? What kind of questions? Was it after I stole that page from your book? I remember Dream approached you during the meeting about Fatal Error that one time…
Abyss noticed my reaction before asking, “Does Easter want her mom back to how it used to be?”
I looked at my hands for a moment with a slow nodding.
“I’m not sure if we can get Dream back to normal but… let’s give him some space while Cross and a few other adults work with him,” Abyss told me, “I know it’ll be hard but… it’ll be okay, okay?”
I looked away. It’s not like Dream or Ink suddenly change their tune about Error. Why should I expect Dream to get “better” from this?
“In the meantime, I’ll get a group chat started between Ink, Cross, and Alter,” Abyss told me, “Just so they know what’s going on without communication issues.”
I’m not sure if that makes me feel better about things.
Abyss looked at me for a moment before asking, “Things are going to be okay; I promise.”
Like I can take your word for it… but okay. Only because Ink seemed super serious about Dream’s behavior and Alter is a Toriel. Though Cross is loyal to Dream so I don’t really trust him to keep Dream in place though.
Getting up, I didn’t see the point of allowing Abyss to speak more of the matter. The conversation seemed to be over anyways…

Chapter Text

“No, didn’t Ink talk to you about a “sleeping arrangement”” I heard as I woke up.
“You’re also being fooled by that doll!” Shouted Dream.
Rubbing my eye sockets, I tried to recall what happened. Oh yes, I got tired while flower-watching, so I went home for a nap. Now I’ve woken up to… Abyss and Dream arguing? 
Yawning, I shifted out of bed and walked towards the door. It sounded like Ink forgot about the sleeping arrangement… Looking at my camera, I grabbed it in case it was needed. 
“Dream, I’ve told you that Easter’s page still says that she’s alive and not replaced by some doll you keep talking about,” Abyss told him.
My page? I thought I ripped it out… don’t tell me that the book of AUs can repair itself. That means Abyss knows who I really am… but he hasn’t done anything about it… why?
“The book is wrong,” Dream told Abyss, “I saw it happen myself.”
“Dream please, Ink is already upset,” Abyss told him, “It’s best if you pack yourself and leave before things get worse.”
An uneasy silence filled the hallway beyond my door. Seeing that Abyss is handling things, I turn to my suitcase that still needs to be unpacked. I should put things away since I’m awake… Also, to get my mind off the idea that Abyss most likely knows the truth about me. 
Let’s see, these items belong in the bathroom, I’ll put them away later. These go on my dresser… and the rest needs to go into the dirty clothes bin thing. Wait, where was Palette? Oh, the dining table… 
“So, Dream decided to turn on you?” a voice hummed in my head. 
A second voice added, “It was bound to happen. Though good news, it’s not about your identity as Error, also bad news, it’s not about your identity as Error.”
A third voice snickered, “You must really be horrible to have your own mother turn on you.” 
“I wonder how long before Ink does the same” the first voice came back to say, “I’m willing to take bets.”
“Aw, she’s starting to sniffle” the second voice sounded amused, “that fragile little body must be making her mind just as fragile.”
“Easter” a voice that sounded like Ink’s spoke, “Did all that noise outside your door scare you?”
Wait, that wasn’t a head voice… Ink’s home? Turning my skull, Ink was standing in the doorway. Running up to him, Ink picked me up into a hug. 
“Thanks, Abyss, I got it from here,” Ink told Abyss before telling me, “Sorry I didn’t get back sooner.”
Clinging onto his shirt, I sniffled. 
“Don’t worry” Ink patted my head “I’m here now.”
“Choco” I mumbled.
“It’s snack time, isn’t it?” Ink lightly bounces me in his arms, “How about… a chocolate orange? Does that sound good?”
I nodded, “Choco.”
Ink carried me to the kitchen as I felt my tongues starting to drool. Chocolate fixes a lot of things including nasty voices saying nasty things. Though… I really need to think about how to keep Ink’s attention over a lengthy period of time. Who knows when he’ll forget that he has a kid…
Ink put me down on a stool that was along the kitchen counter. He went to the pantry and grabbed a box that contained a purple tinned sphere. Pulling the orb out, I knew chocolate was inside.
Just then Dream walked into the kitchen and stared at us.
“Dream, I told you,” Ink sighed, “You’re not allowed in the private wing until you rethink your attitude.”
“You know the council will talk about you kicking me out,” Dream told him.
“Well, why don’t I tell the council why it took so long to discuss the truce with Nightmare?” Ink suggests.
Dream frown, “You need to stop playing pretend already.”
Ink slammed the orb down on the counter, “Really? Says the guy that’s pretending that we’re a married couple. I only agreed to pretend couple because it’ll keep the others from flirting with me, but I would rather have them flirt over what you’re doing right now!” 
The two skeletons stared at each other as I wondered if a fight would break out. 
“Dream, there you are” Cross's voice spoke up, “Abyss message me that you needed help with the packing… er… am I interrupting something?”
“No, he was just leaving,” Ink told Cross. 
Cross took Dream’s gloved hand, “Dream, come on, I’ll help you carry.”
The two left with Cross saying something to Dream. 
“Sorry about that Easter” Ink told me as he unwrapped the purple tin, “Look, that slam helped break the orange into its slices.”
I took out a wedge and slid it into my mouth. Ah, bittersweet chocolate with a hint of orange. That hits all the right spots right now.
Ink smiled and took a wedge for himself, “Yep, taking anger out on food always pays off.”
Taking anger out on food? Looking at his vials, I noticed the red one was getting empty. As much as I like Ink yelling at Dream right now… I don’t know how I feel about Ink drinking the red altogether. 
“Alter sent me some ideas about venting,” Ink told me, “We should try them out sometime.” 
Venting? Like… screaming in the anti-void? Kidnapping a random Sans just to have somebody to talk to in a fit of insanity? Going on a destroying spree?
“Does Easter want to finger paint after she finishes her snack?” Ink asked me.
I nodded since I know Ink might become despondent if I disagree. 

“Now, here are our paints,” Ink said as he put down magenta, cyan, yellow, and black jars, “We’ve also got our finger towels… a spot to mix paints… canvases and our favorite Easter.”
I giggled as Ink tickled me. 
“Now remember, when it comes to painting, the true primary colors are magenta, cyan and yellow” Ink told me, “Schools might say that red, blue, and yellow are the primary colors but that’s a lie. No matter which way you cut it.”
I tilted my head.
“Look, when we mix magenta and yellow, we get red” Ink explained as the took a touch of each paint and mixed them, “we can get blue when mixing magenta and cyan.”
I nodded as I watched Ink mixing the paints. 
“Since primary color means you can get all other colors by mixing them and you can’t mix colors to get a primary color, red and blue can’t be primary colors” Ink explained to me. 
I thought we were doing finger painting, when did this become an art lesson?
Ink smiled as he said, “Père is going to make his own finger-painting art with Easter, okay?”
“Choco” I answered. 
“You want to paint some chocolate?” Ink asked as he started to mix paints, “We make brown like this. Does Easter want a still life to help her paint?”
I shook my head, “Easter wants to paint Easter.”
“A self-portrait?” Ink made a mirror and placed it on the table, “Does this help?”
“Merci,” I told him so Ink can focus on his own art. 
“Tout pour ma fille” Ink smiled, “Let me know if you need anything else.”
Dipping my fingers yellow and trying to ignore the sensation of getting dirty, I recall the daffodils I saw earlier today. When I said that I wanted to paint Easter, I meant to paint my soul. I need to get used to this body’s normal after all… 
First the saucer… now the teacup… er… everything is blending into one big yellow blob.
“Orange?” I asked Ink. 
“It’s like making red, magenta and yellow, but add more yellow in the ratio” Ink explained.
Using my other hand, I took the magenta and added it to yellow on the missing pad. It was more of a reddish-orange though… I should add a bit more yellow and… yep, orange. 
I took my freshly made orange and used it to outline my teacup and saucer. Wait, didn’t Goth mention that there was green in my soul?  Like in the center… er… if yellow and blue make green normally… should I add the cyan and magenta mix to the yellow? Er… while that looks green, it seemed sickly… 
“How’s it going, Easter?” Ink asked me.
“Vert?” I asked.
“Yellow and cyan” Ink answered. 
Taking the cyan, I mixed it with yellow to make a smooth green happy color. Applying this color to the center of the flower, I wonder if the color Goth saw was truly green. The “core” of my soul could be cyan-like... wait, Ink said these wore the primary colors for painting, didn't he? Does that mean soul colors work differently when overlapped? 
“Done” I chirped and showed Ink.
“Wow, can you explain to Ink what you painted?” Ink asked.
I said, “Easter is daffodil.”
“Oh yeah, your soul is shaped like a daffodil” Ink hummed, “Almost forgot that unique detail.”
“Easter do good?” I asked.
Ink nodded, “Yes, Easter has amazing art skills. We should hang it on the fridge with pride. After we sign that lovely art, of course.”
Right, I’ll use the leftover green to write my name. E-a-s-t-e-r, Easter. Now to clean off my fingers. 
“Look at what Ink made” Ink showed me his paper.
“Père” I pointed, “self po.. Poll…”
“Yes, it’s a self-portrait” Ink nodded, “Does Père look good?”
“Staw” I told him.
Ink smiled, “Gold star? I’m so honored.” 
Feeling playful, I put my fingers in yellow and reached to Ink’s forehead. Making a star, Ink tried not to laugh. As I leaned back, I grabbed the finger cleaning cloth again. Ink grabbed the mirror from earlier and looked at the star. 
“Aw, thank you,” Ink told me, “Let’s get you a gold star too.”
Feeling the cool paint on my skull, it felt easier to get compared to last time. After Ink finished, he cleaned his fingers and went to hang up our pictures on the fridge. Once he was done, he took a photo like that wasn’t enough. 
“Ink, a word” Classic spoke as he knocked on the dining room entry frame.
“Oh, Classic, look, Easter is such an artist” Ink cooed. 
Classic cleared his throat, “we notice Dream carrying boxes out with Cross. What happened?”
Ink just said, “Easter gave me a gold star for my painting today.”
Classic sighed, “Ink, why are you avoiding the topic?”
“Because it’s a private situation” Ink finally told Classic, “It deals with Dream’s behavior lately. Let’s just say Alter and I agreed that Dream isn’t allowed near Easter or in the private wing until further notice.”
“What did Dream do?” Classic asked. 
“Classic please, I want to keep the situation on a need-to-know basis” Ink sighed, “Just… trust Alter’s judgment on the matter, okay?”
“Alright, I’ll drop it…” Classic smiled, “for a bottle of ketchup.”
Ink pulled a ketchup bottle from the fridge and gave it to him, “Now, is that all?”
“Yes,” Classic said as he headed back to the foyer.
“Now then…” Ink turns to me, “I think it’s time for a French lesson.” 
Now that my hands wore completely clean, I pick up Palette to say, “Française.”

That night, Ink tucked me into bed and read a story. He kissed my forehead while telling me to have a sweet sleep before slowly leaving me in the room. I watch the artificial stars light up the ceiling for a bit before curling up to fall asleep. 
Moments later, I sat up in a panic. Rubbing my sockets, I recalled the nightmare I just had… involving Dream. Looking around, I didn’t see anything. M-maybe I should sleep with Ink tonight? Just in case the real Dream drops by…
Turning off the light and walking down the hallway, I went up to Ink’s door. Opening it, Ink was tucked away in bed while reading a book on rectangles. Ink saw me as a purple question mark and a blue square filled his sockets.
“Easter, what’s wrong?” Ink asked.
I softly squeaked “Ne dormir pas.”
“Do you want to sleep with Père?” Ink asked as he lifted his covers and patted the bed.
“Oui” I stated and crawled into his bed.
Ink helped put the covers on and asked, “comfy?”
Nodding, I looked at Ink’s book.
“I’ll put my book down as soon as I finish the chapter” Ink stated as he went back to reading.

Chapter Text

Yawning, I felt the skeleton next to me move. Wait, skeleton? Oh, I slept with Ink last night…
“Morning Easter” Ink told me, “Did you sleep well?”
I went to nod but noticed a texture in my mouth. Pulling it out, I notice a slobbery mess on Ink’s scarf. Why was Ink’s scarf in my mouth?
“Aw, were you sleep-eating?” Ink asked as he patted my head, “Let’s make some breakfast. How about… choco-chip pancakes?”
Yes, I want choco-chip pancakes!
Ink laughed, “Let’s get cooking then.”
In the kitchen, Ink grabs the mix, eggs, water, and choco-chips. He explains instructions to me as I pour stuff into the mixing bowl. As I mixed, Ink got a black stone and plugged it into the wall.
“Pancake time,” I said Ink as I finished mixing.
“Great, Père will start cooking” Ink stated as he used a deep spoon to pour onto the black stone, “Now don’t touch the black stone because it’s hot. I’ll handle the cooking from here, okay?”
I nodded and watched.
“Ink, I came early today” Alter said as he came in, “Easter, how are you today?”
Putting Palette on my hand, I had him shout, “Choco-pancake!”
“Thanks for coming today” Ink spoke, “Easter, I have some business in the main part of the building, but I need you to “stay at home” in the private wing. I don’t need to go yet, but Alter is going to be in charge while I’m away, okay?”
I nodded as Palette asked, “sewing?”
“Yes, if Alter gives his okay and he supervises you” Ink started, “then you may use the sewing room.”
“Alter, choco-pancake than sew-sew” Palette stated my demands.
Alter laughed, “How about, breakfast, some chatting then sewing?”
Chatting? About what? Was Alter going to talk about Dream’s behavior?
“Okay” Palette agreed since less arguing can lead to more sewing time, “but Easter weally weally want to sew.”
“Easter, I just remember something” Ink stated as he flipped pancakes, “What fruit do you want with your pancakes?”
“Choco-cherry” Palette answered as I remember the dark chocolate-cover white-gold cherries that Red brought over once.
“Cherries? That sounds yummy” Ink told me, “Can you see if we have any cherries in the fridge?”
I nodded and headed over to the fridge. Finding a plastic carton filled with red color fruits, I pulled it out and took it over to the sink to be washed. I had to get on my tippy toes to put the fruit there. Even if Ink has the kitchen Sans’ sized, I was still pretty tiny… Ug, I want a growth spurt and be my old size!
“Easter, those cherries wore already washed and pitted,” Ink told me before going, “I did do that… right? There was a note saying that somebody would eat food whole if given the chance.”
Alter came over to the container, “Yes, they're ready to go.”
A note? Looking at the fridge, it was still covered in notes that Dream had left. One about chocolate limitations, one about no snacking at certain times of the day… oh, there is the one about food that Easter can reach and needs to be safe to eat whole.
Dream cared about “Easter” so much… Why did he have to suddenly change? Stupid Dream, first he can’t be a brother correctly now he can’t even be a mama right either…
“Easter, can you grab three pancake-size plates?” Ink asked, “Alter, can you keep a socket on her?”
“How about I carry the plates while Easter carries the forks to the table?” Alter suggested, “I can also grab the cups.”
“Right, Easter, can you do that?” Ink asked me, “We need three forks, one for yourself, one for dada, and one for Alter… assuming Alter wouldn’t mind joining us… right?”
“I wouldn’t mind,” Alter hummed, “Now let’s go fetch everything we need to set the table, Easter.”
Alter helped me grab forks as he went to find plates and cups.
“Easter, do you want milk with your pancakes?” Ink asked.
“Choco pancakes make choco milk” Palette answered.
Ink nodded, “I’ll take that as a yes.”
Let’s see… I sit here so I put a fork here. Ink sits in that chair, so a fork goes there. Where should Alter sit? Should he have Dream’s chair or another chair? Dream’s chair is next to mine so… Alter should be next to me. The fork goes there.
“Those three chairs?” Alter confirmed, “Okay, I’ll put plates and cups next to them.”
After Alter finished setting up the plates and cups, Ink finishes up the pancakes and came over with them.
“How many pancakes does Easter want? Three?” Ink asked.
“All” Palette greedily asks.
“E-Easter if you eat all the pancakes, there won’t be any for Alter and he helps out so much by helping to set up the table” Ink reasoned.
I frown as Palette gave a recalculated request, “five.”
Ink accepted my proposal as he gave me all five delicious choco stories of fluff. Grabbing the cherries, I decorated my personal food tower with determination. Soon, I was destroying my tower as I cut a slice with a fork and stuffed it into my mouth. The cherries and chocolate blended beautifully across my tongue. So good~
Ink’s phone’s camera flash as I jump slightly. Really? Guess he really thought that my eating was worth a picture for the scrapbook. Still… warn me at least a little bit.
“Such a cute little angel” Ink cooed before clearing his throat, “Now then, Alter, pancakes?”
Soon everybody had a chocolate pancake or more and was eating. Yep, this is a good morning… though I think I like mornings with Outer and fam more… even if there are a lot dirtier dishes involved.
“Easter, how’s breakfast?” Ink asked.
“Choco” Palette answered as I chewed on pancakes.
“Easter, swallow before talking” Alter stated.
I swallowed and had Palette repeat, “chocolate delicious… cherries too.”
“That’s great” Ink patted my head, “I’m glad Easter is feeling great today.”
“Choco day, choco day” Palette giggled.
After eating our pancakes, Alter was done first as he went to start cleaning up the kitchen. Not like it was very messy this time… Still, I like clean spaces over messes, so Alter’s efforts wore worth it.
I should finish eating so my plate can be clean soon. Let’s see how many pancakes I can stuff into this mouth…
“Easter, no, small bites,” Ink told me, “Food isn’t going anywhere.”
But the food is going somewhere, my mouth… Okay, I’ll take smaller bites. I want to savor chocolate more anyway.

“Be safe at work” Palette told Ink once he finished talking to Alter.
It was mostly legal talk about how Dream wasn’t going to be allowed near me or the private wing. Ink had papers that he was going to have Dream sign as consent to the new situation. It sounded like Ink wanted there to be a way for Dream to regain access but with a lot of rules and requirements in place which was going to be Alter’s next job when drafting even more forms.
“I will, I won’t even leave the building” Ink brushed my hair, “I’ll be back before you know it.”
With that, Ink left Alter in charge. Looking to Alter, I wonder what he wanted to chat about…
“Easter, is it okay if Alter asks about yesterday?” Alter signal for me to sit down.
I nodded and went over as I knew this must be about Dream.
“Your… mother said some scary stuff yesterday, correct?” Alter asked as he pulled out some papers, “Can Alter confirm some of the stuff he said with you?”
The first paper looked like a transcript of the meeting that Ink was at yesterday. Let’s see… Dream claiming I was a doll that’s the only thing I can confirm but… I should read over what was said afterward. We got argue, argue, argue, Ink talking about me needing a new body which matched up with what Killer and Nightmare talked about later…
I pointed to the first mention of the word doll as Palette stated, “Easter hearing stopped after mama said that.”
“Okay” Alter took a pen and wrote down that I only knew of that much, “but the rest is accurate?”
I nodded before pointing to later down the page, “Easter hearing comes back, dada took Easter outside… Easter was with Color for the rest of that meeting.”
Alter added more notes before giving me a different page. Let’s see, its starts with Dream entering the room… Oh, it was when I was speaking to Nightmare. Did Nightmare make a transcript and give it to Alter? Weird, some of the words seemed different from what I remember… Did Nightmare make changes to the script? No, Nightmare wouldn’t pull that scheme if he knew Alter would confirm the results with me. Alter must had applied changes to see if I was simply agreeing or if I did know what was going on…
“Pen” Palette asked for.
Assuming Alter did make changes, he must be testing to see if there is a mismatch between testimonies. Let’s see… this was that… I don’t think that line happened at all… I centrally didn’t speak during the conversation between Nightmare and Dream… and… I needed to replace cross-out lines with more accurate ones…Yep, that was everything.
“Done” Palette stated.
“W-wow, that’s an impressive memory” Alter took the pen back and wrote a score on it as if he were grading a paper…
“99 percent?” Palette asked, “what Easter forget?”
“Nothing just a personal note,” Alter told me before removing the page, “Can you tell Alter what happened after you left the room?”
“Easter found Red” Palette stated, “Easter used Red as bone shield… Dream came by and Red asked Dream about Easter… Dream turns scary for a second and Red backed off. Red asked Easter and later Ink about the situation but we didn’t answer.”
“Right, I’ll make sure Red stays quiet about this” Alter stated as he made another note down.
“Did Easter remember okay?” I asked.
“Yes, you did a great job in remembering” Alter told me, “Does… Easter have questions about yesterday?”
“Why mama no see Easter as Easter?” Palette directly asked him.
Alter took a deep breath as if that were the hardest question of them all, “Let me put it this way… Dream is wearing tinted sunglasses with paper cut-outs glued on the lenses, messing up his vision of what’s going on. Does that make sense?”
I nodded.
“Dream needs to see a special doctor to remove these sunglasses” Alter explained, “Even then, Alter doesn’t expect things to return to normal… especially between Ink and Dream.”
“But why did mama put glasses on in the first place?” Palette asked.
“Well… I’m not sure yet” Alter told me, “Some monsters put on sunglasses to shield themselves from a traumatic truth… Or some monsters are in so much shock from an experience, that it becomes very hard to coax them that the experience didn’t come to pass as they assumed.”
“So… dada is keeping mama away until sunglasses get removed?” Palette confirmed.
Alter nodded, “yes, but after that Ink doesn’t want Dream to move back into the private wing.”
I thought about it before Palette stated, “Does that mean Easter will have to go where mama lives once mama returns to normal?”
“Not in this case” Alter stated, “Ink doesn’t want Dream to snap and hurt you again. We’re making plans to have Color’s family be your legal guardians if Ink cannot perform his parental duties.”
“Will… Easter be forced to forgive mama once mama is normal again?” Palette asked.
“No, Ink wants you to have control over how much and what kind of interactions you have with Dream” Alter told me, “We’re not going to force you into forgiving him or putting you into an uncomfortable position.”
“So… dada thinks Easter is a big girl?” Palette confirmed.
“Yes, we both think you're a big, strong, and clever girl that can make her own decisions when that time comes” Alter confirmed.
A small spark of pride and joy burst into my soul with the sensation of having control over Dream when that time comes. If I play my cards right, I can really guilt trip Dream for hurting me. Plus, once Fatal Error is gone, all I need to do is make it impossible for Ink to take care of me and I get to stay with Dunckle Nebby.
“Can Easter sew now?” Palette asked, “She needs to make a gift for Color family. Color, Outer, and Dunkle are planning on starting a family and so Easter needs to make gift for the new baby sibling.”
“Aw, okay, let’s see if there are any patterns for babies in the sewing room” Alter told me.
Alter walked with me to the sewing room as I wonder what sort of gift Killer would like and what was for baby bones. Wait, did I mention Killer to Alter? I did use his nickname though… Alter didn’t ask about who Nebby was so… maybe it’ll be okay?
“Let’s see, we got fabric baby toys,” Alter says as he showed me a soft-looking block and some ball-like items.
I shook my head as Palette stated, “they have baby bone toys.”
Alter nodded and looked around himself more, “How about some baby bibs and burp clothes? They're simple and you can choose fun fabric patterns for them.”
“Maybe…” Palette stated as I felt unsure.
“Well, the only thing we have left is baby outfits and costumes… that may be difficult to make.”
“Show Easter” Palette pouted as I know how to sew clothes.
“Okay,” Alter stated as he pulled them out, “Here they are.”
The baby clothes looked extremely basic and not very personal. Looking at the costumes, I saw one that caught my eye, and I picked it up. On the image, it was a black cat-themed onesie. Killer loved cats; he would love this.
“Easter makes this, the same color,” I told Alter, “as PJs instead of a costume.”
“I see…” Alter looked at the pattern before asking, “How about we make a burping cloth as practice first? We can make it match in some way and call it a set.”
Guess Alter wanted to see if I had the skill level… Okay, but it needs to be a cat theme. We should see the fabric we’re working with first. At least Ink actually took the time to plan out how the materials are arranged in this room so I could find what I needed.
“This fabric for burps?” Palette asked as I found the kitty head printed fabric.
“Yes, this will do quite nicely” Alter told me, “It’ll even match the pajamas.”
Cutting out the pieces, I carefully pinned the seam before heading over to the sewing machine. First, we need to check the spool under the metal foot. Let’s see… black thread is already in place there. I’m okay with that. Now grab the spool of black and thread the machine…
“Easter, who taught you to use the sewing machine?” Alter asked.
I thought for a moment before Palette stated, “In Easter’s sleep.”
“Okay, but just remember to go easy on the petal” Alter stated as he rubbed his hands nervously.
Rolling my eye lights, I focused on my work and got started on sewing at my own pace.

“I’m home” Ink sang as he came into the sewing room.
“Dada, welcome home” Palette sang as I came over, “Easter sewed and sewed.”
“What did my creative fille make?” Ink asked me.
I picked up the burping cloth as Palette spoke, “Present, for Color fam-fam.”
“It’s a lovely piece of cloth” Ink commented, “Cute, it's kitty themed.”
“Yeah, it burp cloth” Palette explained, “Eater is currently making cat PJs… process is slow…”
“Still, I’m impressed you got so much done this morning” Ink congratulates me before muttering, “Unlike myself…”
Guess Dream was being annoying and reluctant today…
“Did dada get those papers signed?” Palette asked, “the ones Alter gave you?”
“Oh, yes I did… eventually” Ink pulled out the paperwork and handed it to Alter, “How was Easter today, Alter?”
“Surprisingly great” Alter stated, “She’s taking… you know what, quite well.”
“That’s good” Ink hummed, “Easter, I had a Sans order some Grillby for our lunch today. I hope the hamburger is good.”
“Easter likes eating sky more,” Palette told him, “It’s a pot pie specialty in Outertale though… Easter will eat burg though.”
“That’s quite unhealthy… Ink” Alter had a menacing smile.
“Oh, yes, I did get it with a salad” Ink sounded nervous, “Easter and Ink must eat their salads before eating burger.”
“Can Easter have star shape carrots?” Palette asked, “Easter heard star shape vegi can be put in salads.”
“I… I don’t know if the salad will come that way” Ink told me, “How about I make a note for the next time we order a salad to make sure it’s star themed?”
“Yes please,” Palette told him, “Easter loves eating sky.”
“I better take my leave” Alter stated, “I have some other children I was planning on visiting today.”
“Alright, thanks for watching Easter” Ink told him, “Easter, you want to thank Alter too?”
“Merci Alter” Palette stated.

“Ug, I can’t believe I’m doing this” Red grumbled as he came into the dining room.
He was wearing a tutu and cat ears while carrying a paper bag. So, this was the Sans that Ink had roped into grabbing lunch for us. How did Ink convince Red to be a magical cat girl just to deliver food?
“From the…” Red sighed as he looked at a piece of paper, “palace of love and justice, I’ve come to deliver your supplies to fight the dark side of the moon. Remember, you too can be a magical girl of your own story…” Red crumbled up the paper, “what a load of bull-”
Ink interrupted, “Thank you Red. Here is that special limited edition cat toy for Doomfanger.”
Ink handed Red the gift with haste. It looked like a normal mouse though… Limited edition stuff sounded like junk to rope into buying them. Was that what limited edition mean?
“You’re lucky that I overslept, and the boss would boil my bones if I didn’t get this” Red grumbled, “don’t expect me to do ya anymore favors.”
“Sure-sure” Ink sounded amused, “you better keep those cat ears though.”
“Just take your stupid food” Red shove the bag into his hands, “Now I got an edgelord of a boss to get back to.”
Ink waved goodbye before turning to me, “We better replenish our energy cores so we can power up to finish that sewing project you started.”
“What energy cow?” Palette asked.
Ink started to take food out of the bag, “Père will tell a really big story during lunch… about magical girls.”

Chapter Text

“Dada look,” Palette told Ink as I finished my last stitch about a week after I started, “Easter finish cat pajamas”
“Aw, it’s so cute” Ink cooed and snapped a photo, “this is too small for Easter though… right?”
“It’s for Outer’s baby bones… once they have baby bones” Palette explained.
“It looks perfect for a cute little baby bone” Ink cooed, “You know, Color is coming by today, do you want to give them the gift then?”
I nodded as Palette stated, “yes, Easter needs wrapping paper.”
Ink smiled, “What does Easter want the wrapping paper to look like?”
“Um… kitty, like present” Palette stated, “Easter should write note… with picture.”
“Okay, kitty-themed wrapping paper and a baby shower card,” Ink said as he got out his paintbrush.
He made the card first and handed it to me. It had a crane carrying a white pouch on the front and the inside was empty. Grabbing a waxy stick, I wrote a simple note and signed it. Now to draw some kitties and… imaginary family photo… there.
“Easter done,” Palette told Ink.
“Great, does Easter want an envelope with a special seal?” Ink asked.
Palette stated, “just envelope.”
Ink handed me a cream color envelope as I went to stuff it inside. We gather up the pajamas and burping cloth and folded them nicely before wrapping them. Soon we tied it with a ribbon and had the card resting under the colorful shimmering knot.
“All done” Palette cooed, “Wait… is mama going to work today?”
“No, he’s with Cross doing a search for anything Fatal could have left behind” Ink explained, “Should take him a while… unless he actually finds something.”
“Okay, Easter is ready to help dada at work and for Easter to deliver gift” Palette cheered.
Ink hummed, “You want to help dada with work? You can help dada by taking notes and reminding him to stay on track.”
“Easter be memory cannon” Palette giggled, “Like that one… magical girl.”
“Does magical Easter need a magic wand?” Ink asked.
I thought for a moment before I had Palette ask for, “glittery wand that looks like space.”
“Can Easter focus her magic to make this wand?” Ink asked.
I tilted my head. Ink made the wrapping paper but now he wants me to use my magic? Guess a magic wand vanishing is better than spoiling the present's contents to soon. Anyways, I can focus my magic… I think… magic wand… magic wand…
Soon a smooth stick cover came into my hand. It had a navy-blue base with sparkles all over. It had a silver tip on one end, but my eyes wore drawn to the more impressive end. It looked like… blue-tinted Saturn with its rings. It floated there and moved with the rod even though there was a bit of delay.
“Easter magic is impressive?” Palette asked.
“Yes, dada is very impressed” Ink patted my head, “You must have impressive control to get the planet to float like that.”
“No, Easter didn’t think of the staff head…” Palette stated honestly, “Easter magic lacks focus…”
“Still, I’m very proud that you are capable of such feats of magic,” Ink told me, “You have the makings of being a great creator.”
I frown but Palette stated, “Easter is ready to go.”
“Oh, we don’t want to lose Palette while we’re at work” Ink started, “Can you leave him here?”
I looked at the puppet before pulling him off my hand. Was Ink worried that I’ll lose him though? Maybe Alter suggested to Ink that I needed time away from Palette?
“Okay, let’s go” Ink got up and headed down to the main foyer.
I followed while holding the gift and wand. The foyer was crowded as always. Trying to shift both gift and wand into one arm, I used my newly free hand to hold onto Ink’s scarf.
“Ink, we need the final say on the venue for the peace signing” a member of the council stated and held up a form, “This venue is open which is great for the rest of the multiverse, but bad for snippers. This other venue is indoors but that means only the council and the other party can see it.”
“The first venue, only a fool will risk ending a peace treaty with a sniper attack” Ink stated, “Make sure we have some guards on the lookout just in case.”
“Got it” the council member nodded before moving to, “Should candytale number 38 be in charge of catering or candytale number 25?”
Ink checks his scarf for a moment before asking, “which one uses artificial additives or chemicals in their cooking?”
“Candytale number 38” the council member answered.
“Let’s do candytale number 25 with a note that all ingredients needed to be checked to avoid food allergies” Ink stated, “some of the monsters attending are sensitive to chemicals.”
Was Ink talking about me? I mean… I know I’m sensitive to poisons, but chemicals in general? However, I’m doing fine with the food I eat every day… including chocolate… was this detail always so well hidden even with my stay at Outertale? Then again, I think Horror could be a tad sensitive when it comes to food… or at least he’s gotten sick from unfamiliar food before… according to Killer anyway. Well, at least Ink is avoiding anything that could be lethal for whoever sake it is.
“We should also hire one of the snowdin dogs to make sure nobody tries to tamper with the food,” Ink told him.
The council member wrote it down, “got it, and Flowerfell AUs stated that they're not a flower-selling server as we tried to tell you multiple times.”
Ink frown, “Well… um… er… Easter, do you know any good places with flowers?”
“UnderNovela?” I squeaked as I remembered that one episode where there was a gun hidden within some flowers that were used to…
“The soap opera AU? I do recall flowers there… Hey, see if any of the UnderNovela AUs can supply flowers” Ink told him.
“Language barrier: last I check, nobody on here can speak Spanish” the council member sighed.
“Oh um…” Ink looks over his scarf, “Oh, Cross speaks Spanish. Tell him he should go check the AU for signs of Fatal being around and that he should order the flowers in the process.”
Wait, Cross speaks Spanish? Why didn’t he ever use it around me, as both Easter and Error? Ug, he could have translated my favorite show, until puppets showed up on tv, UnderNovela all this time… I’m making a herd of cows the next time I see him for this.
“Got it,” the council wrote it down before asking, “But are you sure he can be trusted?”
“Worst-case scenario, we’ll end up with empty vases” Ink laughed.
“Right…” the council member sighed, “I’ll contact Cross about the new assignment.”
The skeleton walked off as Ink seemed lost on where to go next.
“Color” I mumbled and tugged on his scarf.
“Right, we’re looking for Color” Ink hummed and walked around the other skeletons.
As I spotted a shifting colorized flame, I knew we wore close. Walking faster, I managed to walk in front of Ink to get to Color. He had a folder he was thumbing through, but his gaze didn’t seem fully focused on the pages.
“Color” I softly spoke.
“Oh, hi Easter” Color closed his folder, “How are you today?”
“Chocolate,” I told him before handing him a gift, “fam gift.”
“Is this a gift for the family?” Color clarified before saying, “Thank you.”
I handed the package to him, “Made gift.”
“You made this yourself?” Color smiled, “Isn’t that sweet.”
“How… fam?” I softly asked.
Color had a brighter smile, “They're doing great. Outer is… well, I’ll tell you the news later.”
Outer is what? It had to be a good thing… Wait, does Outer have a soulling in his tummy already? Guess getting a soulling is an easy thing to do…
“Oh yeah,” Ink suddenly spoke, “Easter told me that you were planning on having a child soon.”
“We are,” Color hummed, “course Easter will always be a member of the family to us.”
“It’s nice to hear that I have some skeletons that I can really count on” Ink smiled, “In the context of raising Easter, of course.”
I tugged on Ink in case he forgot I was standing next to him already.
“Oh yeah, look at the magical wand Easter made with her magic” Ink cooed, “she really, really likes Outertale AUs.”
I nodded rapidly while holding up my wand for Color to see.
“Wow, it’s really pretty Easter” Color told me, “Do you like the color blue?”
I thought for a bit before saying, “Easter loves sky.”
“The sky is pretty blue… most of the time” Color chuckled.
I nodded.
“Easter, do you know what all the colors the sky can be?” Ink asked me.
“Bleu clair, bleu, bleu foncé, rose, rouge, orange, violette, lilac, y jaune?” I listed them out but notice I listed them in French.
“Très bien” Ink patted my head, “the sky can be a whole lot of colors, right?”
“Oui” I answered.
“As nice as this sounds” Color fakery cough, “I should return to work, so I get home nice and early.”
“Right” Ink stated, “Easter, say au revoir.”
“Au revoir” I lightly spoke.
“I’ll make sure to open this present as a family tonight, Easter. Bye-bye” Color told me before heading off.
“Now then” Ink turns to me, “Should we call it a day or do some more work?”
I thought it over before saying “work” it’s better to know what is going on than to be left in the dark over in the private wing.

Or maybe I should have gone back to the private wing. Ink was now talking to council members about every little detail at the upcoming event. I thought most of it was already done but… either the ideas they had didn’t work or an added detail came up.
Looking at my magical wand, I wonder if it had any magic powers. Maybe… galaxy bubbles? Will it turn on if I charge it with magic, like how some human artifacts work? Of course, the only reason humans made the artifacts was to help focus their magic and boost them. Monsters were naturally magical and didn’t require the aid of mere human toys. If I use this like one of those artifacts… it might help with the direction my magic takes…
Holding the wand, I pulled magic from my soul and into my arm. The depression/golden marks on my arms glowed slightly as magic ran through. Soon the magic made it’s way to the wand as the planet spun around more quickly. Now to focus on making bubbles… bubbles…
I froze as something splattered across my face. Why was their paint covering my eyes? D-did Ink not like me playing around? Clearing off my eyes, I notice a blue glittery liquid on my hand. The feeling of slime and glitter told me this was a leap away from bubble soap, let alone bubbles. Guess this wasn’t a bubble wand…
“Easter, is… is something wrong?” Ink asked me sounding a bit nervous.
I looked at him and I noticed that I wasn’t the only one that got covered in the substance. Every single surface in the room was covered, and angry skeletons were staring at me. Was I going to be hurt for this?
“Ug, these papers wore important” one of the skeletons complained.
Soon the rest of the skeletons wore complaining about their papers or clothes or… one complains that it got in their skull via eye socket. I’m going to be beaten up for this… right? I don’t think Ink can ward off this many skeletons even though he’s the creator and all that.
“Ink!” A voice spoke above the others that sent a shiver down my spine.
Ink quickly picked me up and tried to go to the private wing.
Dream blocks his pathway “You can’t even control that doll let alone properly plan a signing, maybe we should just call it off before a disaster occurs.”
I gripped onto Ink’s scarf tightly and press my sockets into his chest to make sure I didn’t make eye contact with ṯ̶̚h̵̹̀a̸̦͐ţ̵̓ ̷̻͂s̷̮̾k̸̺͂e̸̘̐l̴͕͐e̴̗̍t̸̗́o̶̹͠n̸̞͋.
“You’re even leaving behind a mess” Dream told him, “Who’s going to clean it up?!”
I heard Ink sigh as I went to glance up at him. He shifted my weight to one arm as he waved his hand around. The paint of me levitated off with ease and gathered in his hand. I could only assume the same was occurring for the rest of the room as I didn’t dare move too much. Soon, Ink clapped his hand close, and the mess was completely gone.
“There, I cleaned it up” Ink grumbled, “Now if you excuse me, I’m heading back to the private wing.”
Dream didn’t look satisfied, “Also, what’s with assigning my personal to gather flowers?”
“Do you have a better idea of how to get the flowers?” Ink directly asked.
“That doesn't mean you can assign Cross without going through me first” Dream folded his arms.
Ink sighed, “Okay, okay, I’ll make a note down to talk to Dream before asking Cross to do anything.”
Dream sounded smug, “Good, now about all the little errands you keep assigning us…”
Ink groaned tiredly, “Dream, everybody here has their hands. Somebody needs to do it. Since I clearly have my hands full raising a kid by myself, the other star sans is bound to pick up the slack.”
“Can’t you just take your doll with you to do some errands?” Dream suggested.
Ink sighed, “Dream, if you really have enough time to complain about the workload, you should hire somebody to help you out. I don’t have time to deal with your nonsense right now.”
“Um… Dream” Cross came up to him, “I got the details on the flowers, we can go now.”
“How about you can go to pick up those flowers,” Dream told him, “With that doll. I need to discuss how jobs are to be handed out with Ink.”
“Er… what?” Cross asked.
“You heard me” Dream hissed.
Ink sighed, “You can’t just tell your ‘employees’ to take care of somebody that you already…”
“I’ll do it” Cross went over to me, “Just so she doesn’t have to listen to you two argue.”
Ink easily handed me to Cross, “Fine, but swing by her bedroom in case she wants to bring something with her.”
Cross was gentle with handling me. I stared at him wondering if I could get Cross involved in some cow-related activity. Course that’ll be if he decides to get on my nerves or favors Dream a little too much.

Cross let me head into my room alone as I went to my closet for a change of clothes. If I were heading to my beloved UnderNovela, I would need to look at the part of a background character. Finding a themed dress that looked a lot like something Toriel once wore and matching shoes, I got dressed before finding that “charm” that Dream once got me. Figuring that it may ward off attracting Fatal Error’s attention, I put it on.
“Ready” Palette told him as I got out of my room, “has charm.”
“Good girl” Cross patted my head, “Looks like you already know what sort of AU we’re heading to. Saves time in explaining.”
Cross reached for my hand as we headed out through the foyer. I spotted Ink and Dream still arguing and it sounded like they both call each other thick-skulled. Deciding that Cross was “reformed” as a good guy, a little trip to my favorite tv show would be a good thing as I don't want to be caught up in soon to be all out fight.
“Now remember, stay next to me and let me do the talking” Cross told me, “The last thing we want is a national incident.”
I nodded and stayed near him.

Ug, I’m so bored. Cross went straight to the flower shop, place the order, and came straight back. I didn’t even get to see Sin or Toriel or…
“Look like they're still fighting” Cross sighed, “How about we head to one of the meeting rooms to chat while they get it out of their systems?”
Okay…
Cross waved to both and signaled which room we were going to be in. Both nodded before complaining about their jobs. Sounds like they wore at an impasse with no hope of progressing or ending.
“This room should do it,” Cross said as he opened the door, “What do you think?”
I nodded and walked in before sitting in a chair. Feeling tired and bored I stretched my arms across the table. Cross took to another chair, and he relaxed in it.
“So… How’s life with Ink?” Cross started with.
“Dada makes choco-pancakes for breakfast-ez” Palette told him.
Cross nodded, “man, I’m missing out. So, he’s remembering to feed you, okay?”
Palette replied in a silly tone, “dada phone goes bong then kitchen goes messy.”
“He has an alarm that actually works” Cross laughed, “That’s good.”
“Alter picks on dada about vegetables and stuff” Palette explained to him.
“Oh, speaking of Alter, did he get Color to sign that backup plan Ink mentioned,” Cross asked me.
Palette stated, “Easter loves Color and family.”
“Right, you wouldn’t understand legal talk…” Cross nervously looked at his hands before back at me, “How much does Easter love Color and his family?”
I reach from side to side as far as I could.
“Aw, and how much does Easter love Cross?” Cross asked directly.
I lowered my arms and stared.
“Haha, so how much does Easter love Cross?” Cross asked again with nervousness in his voice.
Palette answers, “Easter doesn’t know where Cross sits.”
“Oh right” Cross cleared his throat, “I know Easter is Easter. I’m trying to convince Dream but… he keeps muttering about watching your soul… I shouldn’t tell a kid ghost stories or anything that could result in nightmares. Let’s just say I’m trying to get Dream back on track with where reality is at.”
“Easter is okay with papa bear,” Palette told him.
Cross seemed happy with that answer, “That’s good enough. I do hope that Dream snaps out of it soon. I’m quite tired of trying to keep Dream in check.”
“Does papa bear still love?” Palette asked.
“Course I still love Dream” Cross answered, “I just… don’t know how to help him…”
“Palette didn’t say who” Palette teased him.
Cross went flushed, “Well it was heavily implied to be Dream.”
Speaking of the devil, he opened the door wide open, “Cross time to go.”
“Understood” Cross got up.
“So… you like playing with dolls” Dream frowned as he glared at me.
Cross sighed, “Dream, not now.”
Dream rolled his eyes lights but then had a smirk, “You know… there is a super easy way to prove that I’m right about that thing.”
“Dream, you sign the papers Ink gave you, you should be aware of the rules with Easter now” Cross reminded him.
“The papers only had rules about me, not you” Dream stated, “besides, it’s just some harmless code checking.”
Cross glanced at me before turning back to Dream, “You just want to look over her code? Nothing else?”
“Yes, just scan her code,” Dream told him, “Something simple as that and we can settle all this once and for all.”
“I… well… Look, I can’t just scan her code,” Cross told him, “We’re leaving.”
Dream frown, “Are you that afraid of the truth?”
Cross stammered back, “Dream, please.”
Not liking where this was leading, I went to leave the room. Dream grabbed my arm and tossed me back in. Cross went to verbally stop him, but something stopped him.
“Cross, wouldn’t it be nice to finally put an end to all this nonsense?” Dream asked.
“Fine, I’ll do it” Cross turns to me, “Easter, please don’t hold this against me.”
This is bad, this is bad. The second Cross sees that I’m Error… I need to get out of here… NOW! But Dream is blocking the only way out and he wasn’t going to budge.
Cross pulled out my code and felt myself choke on the air itself. I need to think of something… anything… and fast. Cows, I need to make cows. That’ll scare Cross off and… and… I don’t know what next, just focus on the cows.
“Reincarnation skill? Though it looks a bit… strange. Dream, does this line convince you?” Cross asked.
Dream sighed, “No, go further.”
“Dream, serious” Cross put his foot down, “Her code states she’s capable of reincarnation. I don’t think Ink would have put that there in some random replacement doll!”
“So?” Dream simply repeated, “go further.”
“No, I understand that what you may have seen was reincarnation” Cross firmly told him, “I don’t know what you’re trying to get me to see but…”
“The real Easter would state who she was before” Dream told him.
H-huh, Dream knew… that I’m… I’m…
“Who she was before?!” Cross turn to pull me into a hug, “What in the multiverse did you do?!”
“Dream!” Ink showed up at the door, “I thought you agree to stay away from her.”
“Tsk, Cross, we’re leaving,” Dream told him.
Cross slowly let me go, “Easter, I’ll… I’ll try to reason with Dream one more time.”
No, he’s going… He knows, you can’t know! Nobody can know!
Ink came to pick me up, “Easter, sshhhh, I got you. He won’t hurt you.”
Ink, you need to stop Dream. He’s going to tell Cross and then… than… Soon everybody will find out! I can’t let that happen, I can’t…
“Easter, it’s okay,” Ink told me, “Père got you. Let’s head back to the private wing… we can find some chocolate; will chocolate be all right?”
Fine, I’ll eat some chocolate, but I’m still not happy about this.
“We should… hire a full-time guard,” Ink told me as he patted my head, “Just to avoid nasty run-ins with that big meany skeleton.”
I’m not sure if a guard will help if everybody finds out the truth… But having one around would help settle my nerves a bit. Promise me that the guard will be loyal to me and nobody else.

Chapter Text

I groaned as I woke up. Recalling my dream, it was quite strange as events vaguely flow through my head. Cross eating hamburgers that had been dipped in chocolate… Not sure why that was scary now that I was thinking about it.
“Good morning, sister!” A voice shouted through my tired skull.
I quickly cover the sides of my head and look at the attacker with vocal sounds as a weapon. They look strangely like my Palette doll. Weird, I don’t think he was in my dream last night… Did Ink make him?
“I’m your imaginary friend slash brother you always wanted” Palette giggled, “You made me in your sleep last night, remember?”
No, I don’t. Who are you really? I’m going to call Ink if you don’t spill those taco beans.
“Huh? What’s with that look?” Palette tilted their head, “Aren’t you happy to see me?”
Pretending to snuffle, I started to cry out loudly. Ink quickly came into the room and over to me. Palette seemed stunned and confused as he didn’t move.
“Easter, what’s wrong? A scary sleep again?” Ink picked me up and rubbed my spine.
I pointed to Palette.
“You drop your teddy bear?” Ink sounded confused, “Wore you worried that it got lost in your sleep?”
No, the skeleton in the room, you squid. It’s clearly there. Can you not see it?
“Sister, I’m your imaginary friend,” Palette told me, “Only you can see me.”
Oh great, this Palette was actually a voice. How long has it been since they last tried taking a physical form? I better think of a way to get rid of the voice before it starts causing some real trouble.
“Shh” Ink rubbed my back, “Teddy bear is safe, and so is Easter.”
Yeah, I just need to ignore that voice for now. I’ll plan on removal later…

“Here’s breakfast” Ink cooed as he places an omelet in front of me.
“Merci” I hummed before starting to eat.
“Palette wants to try some” Palette grabbed the fork out of my hand and put it in his mouth, “Mmm, yummy.”
Refusing to acknowledge the voice in any way, I went to use my tongues to lift the meal into my mouth. Ink stared at me in shock from the sudden behavior but it’s better than trying to fight with a voice with somebody here. I swallowed down my meal with no issue as I excused myself to go brush my teeth.
Ink nodded slowly and went to enjoy his food as normally as Palette followed me. Stupid annoying voice, take a hint already and leave! Palette hummed as if unfazed by my efforts to rid him.
“Sister, what game do you want to play first today?” Palette asked.
I ignored him as I went to brush my teeth. Palette poked me in the cheek a few times as if trying to get my attention. Telling myself to stay strong, I kept brushing.
“Palette wants to play jump rope first” Palette stated as he pulled out a paint roller and started to make something.
Now that I was finished brushing, I turned to leave but Palette stood in my way. He had a jump rope in his hands and a pleading look. Oh, so you really want to play jump rope? I’ll show you how the gang loves to play jump rope.

Palette must have been very gullible since it was super easy to tie him up with the rope. Soon I had one tied-up voice but… this wasn’t enough. I should see if I can tie him onto the ceiling fan in the living room. That should make things extra clear that I don’t want this voice around.
“Easter, stars no” Ink suddenly spoke as he saw me, “What in the multiverse are you doing?”
The next thing I noticed was a string on my cheek. Ink… slapped me? Why?
“Palette, you okay?” Ink asked as he went to untie him.
“Why was sister dragging me across the floor?” Palette asked as he started to cry.
Ink held Palette in his arms as he turned to me, “Easter, seriously? Is this how you treat imaginary friends?”
Wait, Ink could see him? But he didn’t see him earlier… Palette wasn’t a voice?
“Easter, what do you have to say for yourself?!” Ink shouted at me.
What do I have to say for myself? What about you? What even is Palette?
“Easter, apologize” Ink demanded from me.
No, explain things to me first! You know what, I’m going to my room and locking the door. I don’t want to deal with whatever squid idea you have in your skull right now, squid face.
“Don’t just walk away from me!” Ink shouted as he started to stomp after me.
Getting to my room and locking the door. I kicked the floor as I went to sit in the closet. I heard Ink screaming and pounding on the door as I sat in silence. Moments later, he went quiet but… I don’t think it’ll last for long.

“Easter?” Alter voice spoke as he knocked on the door, “Easter, can I come in to talk?”
Why? Do you plan to punish me without talking?
“I… I want to talk about what happened” Alter told the door, “I got Ink and Palette’s side of the story, but I need to hear yours before I find a way to settle the situation properly.”
Getting up, I slowly went to my door and unlocked it. Alter was alone… Okay, you can come in. Alter came in and closed the door behind him. Soon he sat down so he’ll be at my eye level before starting the conversation.
“Can Easter tell me what happened?” Alter asked.
I don’t even know how… Not without talking about the voices. I don’t want to talk about the voices.
“Right… can you tell me why you tied up Palette?” Alter asked.
I slowly stammered out, “nobody could see him.”
“And?” Alter waved his hand for me to continue.
“Easter can’t seem crazy” I muttered.
Alter tilted his head, “Having an imaginary friend is normal, why would it seem crazy?”
“But voices aren’t normal” I quickly stated.
“Voices?” Alter processed for a moment before it clicked, “Oh… you thought you were going crazy.”
I nodded.
“So, you tied Palette up because you didn’t want to appear crazy” Alter concluded.
I nodded.
“That was a mean trick Ink did on you, wasn’t it?” Alter pulled me into a hug, “Ink should have talked to you about what an imaginary friend is to make sure you wore okay with having one.”
“So… what is Palette?” I asked him.
“Ink made him to be your personal guard” Alter told me, “He wanted Palette invisible to most monsters so he could both protect you properly and report any findings to Ink. They used the invisible friend role as a cover story. It was a normal thing for a child to have.”
I slowly nodded.
“So, to be clear, Easter is perfectly sane and is not going crazy” Alter told me, “Ink didn’t mean to scare you with Palette like that.”
“Is dada going to… hurt Easter for hurting Palette?” I asked.
“No, why do you think that?” Alter tilted his head.
I frown while saying, “Error.”
“Dear me, no” Alter stated, “Ink wouldn’t even think of that.”
“Easter is safe?” I asked him.
“Yes, very safe,” Alter told me, “But you should really make things up with Palette.”
I slowly nodded as Alter pulled away from the hug and turned to leave.
“I’m going to talk things out with Ink and Palette” Alter told me, “When you leave this room, I’m expecting you to apologize to Palette for tying him up with a jump rope, okay?”
I nodded again as Alter left the room. I’ll let Alter talk to them before I say anything. Though…
“Pfft hahaha” a voice burst out laughing, “You honestly thought that skeleton was one of us?”
“Ink might kick you out of here for doing that” another voice added.
“Palette had creation magic back there, right? He’ll be a great replacement for the offspring of creativity” a third voice spoke out.
“That’s right, Easter is just some leftover child from an unwanted relationship” a voice added, “wonder how long before Ink kicks her out. I wonder if Outer and Color will allow Easter into their home after what she did. She did hurt a child after all, who knows what she’ll do to a baby skeleton.”
“Killer himself might not let you in if he sees you as a threat to his own child” a voice hummed.
The second voice hummed with satisfaction, “better get packing. Ink might come straight over here to kick you out the painful way.”
Yeah… I should start packing.
Pulling out a hard suitcase, I started to fill it with clothes. Not sure where Ink is going to end up sending me, but I should at least have clothes… Maybe I should camp in the antivoid like how I used to as Error?
I heard the door open and shut again as I heard somebody come in. I froze expecting some form of punishment… yelling, harming… a hug… wait a hug? A pair of small arms wrapped around me from behind. Did those arms belong to Palette?
“Is sister trying to run away?” Palette’s voice asked me.
No, I’m being kicked out… right?
“Oh, sister…” Palette sounded sad, “Dad went through a lot just to make me. Doesn’t that show that he cares?”
I felt my sockets slowly starting to tear up. Sure, Ink went through a lot before but… after what happened… I don’t think he would want me anymore.
“Dad is very worried about keeping Sister safe” Palette told me, “Now dad is worried about emotional scars.”
Is he that worried? Even though he doesn’t have a soul?
“Sister… I know change is scary” Palette stated, “But can Easter give Palette a shot before turning away?”
“Dada… still wants to keep Easter?” I asked Palette.
“Yes,” Palette stated.
"Palette still wants Easter?" I asked him.
Palette hummed, "Of course, I still want my sister."
I slowly turned to hug him back, “Easter is sorry about jump rope. Easter didn’t know Palette was real-real.”
“Palette forgives sister” Palette rubbed my back, “How about we put the suitcase away before we go play?”
“In a bit…” I mumbled, “did brother hide some chocolate in his pocket? Easter can smell it…”
“That was a last resort,” Palette told me as he pulled out a choco bar, “Don’t tell dad that I snuck it out of the kitchen.”
“Share?” I asked him.
Palette opened the chocolate and gave me half, “Share.”
“What game does Palette want to play first?” I asked as I chewed on the chocolate.
Palette thought before saying, “Palette wants to make a big mess… with creation magic.”
“Mess, where?” I asked, trying to hide my nervousness.
“The living room” Palette hummed, “It needs more decorations.”
Living room? Okay, I can handle making a mess in the living room. Now if it were a mess in my room, we would have a problem.

“Palette wants… paintball gun,” Palette told me as he jumped on the couch.
A paintball gun? Why does Palette suddenly want a weapon? How about I try making this “paintball” instead? Let’s see… was it a ball of paint? Or was it a ball that summons paint?
“Sister, should we try making something easier?” Palette asked as he jumped and sat on the couch.
A splat falls onto my head as I lost my train of thought. Soon a sponge in the shape of a ball rolled off my head and into my hands. Confused, I squeezed it, and orange liquid came out. Ew…
“Cool, a paintball” Palette took it and squeeze it as a more yellow color came out, “A multi-color paintball, that’s so cool.”
Palette threw it at a ball the sound of paint splatted on it before bouncing onto the floor. A blue splatter showed where the ball impacted the wall, and a green trail was on the floor. Picking up the ball, Palette looked pumped and excited.
“Sister, sister, help Palette paint the whole room” he giggled and tossed the ball to me.
I held it before weakly throwing it at another wall that left behind a purple mark. Palette laughed and dragged me into the game with more tossing and throwing. While I didn’t find it fun, it seemed like Palette was having the greatest time in his life.
“Palette, Easter, what did you two do to the living room?” Alter asked as I froze up.
“Decorations” Palette answered.
Alter sighed, “As much as I like seeing you two getting along now… there is paint everywhere.”
“Alter” Ink spoke, “I don’t see what the issue is.”
“This is a mess,” Alter told him.
Ink shrugged, “Coming from somebody that sorted her building blocks, it’s an improvement.”
Hold on, Ink actually remembers that? Who are you and why do you have such a good memory? Did Ink intend to have Palette draw out chaos from me?
“Besides, I wanted to redecorate this room anyway. Their fun solved a lot of trouble for me” Ink told him.
“Fine, I’ll let this slide” Alter sighed before telling us, “Now it appears the room wasn’t the only one to get drenched in paint. Why don’t you two go get a bath while we prepare lunch?”
“Bubble bath time!” Palette shouted as he dragged me down the hall.
H-hold on, shouldn’t we go in separately?

I dried my hair with the towel as Palette rushed to the kitchen. The bathroom we left behind was soaked from Palette’s game of battleship. For some reason, Palette had to make a huge splash whenever a cannon was fired, and he didn’t seem to hold back either.
“Here we are” Ink stated as he placed the final plate, “One HEALTHY lunch for a family.”
“Yummy food time, yummy food time” Palette giggled as he sat in his chair.
I went to mine as I looked at today’s meal. Roasted chicken, mini trees, and orange-colored fruit. Palette quickly dug in as I carefully tasted the food before I started to eat. Ink looked tired but happy as he ate. Alter also joined us… was he going to watch us after lunch?
“So, what does Sister want to do after lunch?” Palette asked.
I poked my food for a second before saying, “Easter wants to sew a cow.”
“A cow?” Palette hummed, “yeah, Palette can help with that.”
“Just remember that Alter or I need to supervise you in that room” Ink stated as he ate.
“Easter knows” I hummed before stating, “Easter wants cow to have those double stabs.”
“Double stabs? Oh, you mean horns” Palette giggled, “we can do that.”
Perfect, now I will have a weapon to scare Cross as payback for looking at my code. Also, to keep him away since he most likely knows what I really am now. I’m going to make full use of Killer’s advice on cow pranks.
“Looks like I can watch over them with ease this afternoon,” Alter told Ink before telling us, “After two hours in the sewing room, we need to review our alphabet and numbers.”
“Okay” Palette and I replied in unison.

Chapter Text

“This one, this one” Palette giggled as he picked out a book.
“Aw, a classic” Ink hummed as he took the book, “This is a classic human fairy tale book about a knight saving a princess to be exact.”
“Palette wants to be the knight!” Palette proudly demanded as he went to his newly made bed.
I went over to mine as I wondered how sharing a room with Palette was going to work in the long run. Sure, it’s nice having somebody to protect me from scary sleep, but when will I get a moment to myself to make plans. Not just anti-Cross cow plans, but more… long run as a former destroyer plans.
“Easter, this isn’t your usual story, is that okay?” Ink asked me.
“As long as Easter isn’t princess,” I told Ink.
“Got it,” Ink hummed as he settled down to tell us the story…

“And they live happily ever after, the end” Ink told us as he closed the book.
Palette had fallen asleep as soon as Ink read page one. I was awake but pretended to be asleep. Ink gave us both a kiss on the forehead before leaving the room.
Sitting up, I looked over to Palette’s bed. His bed’s headrest contains two books. One Palette referred to as a notebook but clearly had dairy written on it, the other was a guidebook which was what I was more interested in right now. If Palette was going to be my personal guard, I needed to know what he was programmed to do so I won’t be surprised.
Sneaking to Palette’s headrest, I paid close attention to Palette’s breathing patterns. I slowly recalled a game the gang would play whenever one of them slept in. It was mostly a punishment involving shaving cream and a feather that was played off as laughs. Course Killer was the one dishing out this punishment with Dust ending up with shaving cream all over his face by the time he came to Horror’s homemade breakfast.
Maybe I could tease Palette with that game later, but for now… the guidebook.
“… bubble gum puppies” Palette snorted suddenly in his sleep.
I quickly took a step back as I wondered if he was close to waking up. Palette rolled onto his side and remained quiet. Grabbing the guidebook and heading back to my bed, I noticed that I was going to need a reading-level light source.
Not wanting to wake Palette up, I snuck out of our room and headed to the living room. Not seeing anybody around, I turned on the reading lamp.
“Now, let’s see what sort of guard you are” I mumbled as I sat down in a chair to read.
The first page contained an index. The first section of chapters was mostly daily things such as schedules, playtime, lessons, food awareness, etc. The second section involved interactions in public including invisible behavior and visible behavior. Wait, if Ink intended Palette to be my imaginary friend, why would Palette have visible behaviors in this book?
Turning to that chapter first, I slowly read out the line, “There will be times when you need to be visible to protect Easter or keep close to her with ease. During these moments, tell Easter that she used her magic to make him a physical body for a brief period of time.”
Oh, like that won’t get confusing to me on when Palette is visible or not. Tsk, Ink just had to come up with the most empty smooth skull plan for Palette’s role. It’s like he wanted me to appear insane in front of the council…
I headed back to the index page to see what else… when to contact Ink, how to ward off an attacker… these seem normal… wait, this last section of chapters. Measuring emotions, countermeasures and… removal?
Turning to the start of this section, the measuring emotions page detailed how Palette will keep an eye on my emotional state. The next chapter was about how to act during certain emotional states to help stabilize them. There was even a paragraph on how Palette should behave if I show signs of running away… it matched up with what Palette said earlier.
Turning to the removal chapter, it started with, “As part of Ink’s deal with Dream, this chapter is sadly being added.”
Ink’s deal with Dream? I’ll have to see if there is any information about that later…
“If Easter wore to ever shows signs of becoming a threat to the multiverse, alert Ink immediately and follow the steps according to the current threat level. Keep in mind to try to avoid these signs as much as possible. Refer to chapter- “
I felt sick. Dream asked Ink to add this chapter, didn’t he? So even if Dream saw me as Easter again, Dream knew who I was. He wouldn’t allow a past destroyer to roam free. While Dream did “reform” Cross, I wasn’t “reformed” and was forced into this position. It makes sense that Dream would corner me and limit my options.
Looking at the “signs” some of them even detailed destruction magic… no it was more like Dream attempted to describe destruction traits. Such as ripping pieces of paper or breaking things.
At least it looked like Dream didn’t tell Ink about how I’m Error. However,… some of these signs wore a bit on the nose. As if I managed to destroy something completely: Palette’s response is to knock me out or worse.
From the looks of this guidebook, it seems like Cross coax Dream that “I’m the real Easter”. However, was that really for the best? Dream sounds more interested in limiting my behaviors compared to being an actual mother. If Dream knew who I was this whole time, why did he behave as a mother in the first place?
“Easter?” Ink called out as he entered the living room.
I quickly closed the book and tried to hide it in the chair.
“Why aren’t you in bed?” Ink asked me.
Ink slowly came over and held my face. I felt his thumbs brushing away a tear. Was I crying? Ink’s sockets had an orange question mark in one and a blue tear shape in the other.
“What’s wrong?” Ink asked as he went to hold me.
“W-what is Palette?” I asked Ink.
“A mixture of Dream’s and my magic” Ink told me, “Just like you.”
“Why mama?” I then asked.
Ink sat on the couch with me still in his arms, “Well um… I didn’t think of otherwise? Like, I wanted somebody you had a positive relationship with as a bodyguard and was your age. I recalled your Palette puppet and used it as the base… he looked a bit like Dream and myself so I asked Dream to donate some magic.”
Couldn’t you have made Palette without going through Dream?
“What did mama say?” I asked.
“He…” Ink trailed off as I couldn’t tell if he forgot or didn’t want to say, “let’s just say I got what I needed.”
Looking at my hands, I wasn’t sure how to ask about the “deal”.
“Easter, about the… imaginary friend story” Ink started, “That was pretty stupid of dada, right? Sorry, I really didn’t mean to freak you out.”
I looked away.
“Easter, should we talk about what an imaginary friend is?” Ink asked me.
I nodded.
“So, an imaginary friend is like playing pretend that your favorite make-believe friend is real,” Ink told me, “Course with how your magic works, your make-believe friends can be real… if you really focus and such.”
I still don’t understand how they are that different from voices.
“It’s like… role-playing the fantasy of eating chocolate” Ink tried to add, “Even if the chocolate isn’t real, you still enjoy eating it, right? Imaginary friends work in the same way.”
Again, how are they different from voices?
“Earlier, you told Alter something about voices, right?” Ink asked before moving on, “I’m going to assume you heard stories about AsylumTale. Those voices are like… something you think is real but isn’t. With imaginary friends, you know they aren’t real even if you pretend like they are real. Does that make sense?”
It still feels like imaginary friends and voices are in the same boat…
“Looks like you’re not convinced…” Ink sighed before suggesting, “Why not ask members of the council about what they think of imaginary friends? If you like their responses, you can tell them that Palette is your imaginary friend. Does that work for Easter?”
Fine, but I’m only playing along.

The next morning, Ink was in the main foyer to discuss the singing again. Palette was next to me as I looked for a skeleton to talk to. Seeing Color, I decided he would be the most honest with me, so I’ll talk to him first.
“Hi Color” I greeted him, “did fam like the gift?”
“Oh, hi Easter” Color closed a folder in his hands, “Yes, Nebby got all flustered at first, but I can tell it’s going to be his favorite outfit. Thank you, Easter.”
I smiled before moving on with, “Can Easter ask a weird question?”
“Sure, what is it?” Color asked.
“Imaginary friends” I started, “What does Color think of them?”
“Their…” Color thought it over before saying, “they are like a way of telling others what you want without directly saying it. Course, imaginary friends make good companions on a rainy day.”
I tilted my head, “Easter doesn’t understand what imaginary friends are.”
“Oh um… you like puppets, right?” Color asked, “it’s like having your favorite puppet around all the time even if they aren’t in physical form.”
Like my favorite puppet? Oooohhh, now I get it. Imaginary friends are puppets without bodies and not like voices. That makes a ton more sense.
“So, Easter no has Palette puppet but Palette still here?” I asked him.
Color nodded, “Yep, just like that.”
“Okay, Easter has imaginary friend now” I told him, “His name is Palette.”
“That sounds amazing,” Color told me, “Do you want to play with him?”
I glanced at Palette and thought about it. Should I try telling Color about Palette with the real details? No, I don’t think Palette would like it if I started to talk about Dream’s deal in any way.
“Palette wants to draw” he giggled.
“Yes, Easter goes play now,” I told Color, “Tell fam that Easter says hi.”
“I will” Color hummed and went back to his folder.
I went over to Ink and tugged on his scarf. Ink finished talking to one of the skeletons before turning his attention toward me. Should I really ask Ink for coloring tools for two? A lot of skeletons were staring at us.
“Palette wants to draw” I stated as I recalled a little of what Color had said before puppets came up.
“Two coloring books and what sort of tool?” Ink asked.
“Palette wants… soft tip plastic tubes with smelly liquid inside” I lied as that was what I wanted.
“Markers? Okay,” Ink took broomie and made us the items but…
“Black pages?” I asked him.
“Yeah, it’ll be easier to draw stars if the pages are already black,” Ink told me as he handed me the books and markers.
“Oh right…” I thought it over before saying, “Merci.”
“No problem, have fun,” Ink told us.
Heading to the corner of the room, I sat on the floor and handed Palette his book and markers. Palette quickly lay down on his stomach and started working. Looking at my book, I slowly recall OuterTale and started to mimic its night sky. Just like Ink stated, black pages do help with making stars plus these markers wore neon which makes the stars extra clear and bright.
“Why is that marker floating?” a skeleton whispered which was followed by more whispers.
“Palette, they only see a floating marker, right?” I asked him.
Palette nodded, “Yeah, do you want to take our coloring to one of the small meeting rooms?”
I looked to the whispering skeletons before saying, “Easter would like that.”
“Okay, let’s go” Palette hummed as he gathered up his things.
I gathered my things as I wondered if I should carry Palette’s. Before I could ask, Palette walked past Ink while putting something in Ink’s pocket. Palette guided me to the small meeting room before opening the door. It was empty as he went to put down his notebook and markers. I did the same as I went to continue where I left off.
“Oh, Palette knows a great game we can play” Palette started, “Does sister want to play a game?”
“Um… okay” I looked to him.
“Let’s use magic to build a pillow fort and pretend like we’re… star sans” Palette hummed.
I tilted my head, “Pillow fort?”
“Yeah, we’ll make a ton of pillows and make a fort out of them” Palette explained.
So… I just need to make all sorts of pillows? I remember the gang would sometimes pillow fight with each other instead of real sparing. Maybe those are the pillows Palette wanted to use? Though I really don’t feel like being battered by pillows…
Focusing my magic, I focus on making things pillow by pillow. Palette had requests and additions for what kind of pillows he wanted as I wondered why I was the only one using magic. By the time I finished making all the pillows, I felt sleepy.
“Brother… before pretend” I yawned, “Easter need nap.”
“Okay, brother will keep watch for bad sans while you sleep” Palette smiled.
Pulling some of the pillows from the big pile, I made myself a cozy sleeping spot and laid down. Hopefully, these pillows don’t vanish on me while I’m asleep. I would hate to suddenly drop an inch or two and hit the ground.

“Easter, Palette, lunchtime” Ink called out, “I got a sans to grab some human grub. It’s stir fry.”
I slowly sat up as I rubbed my socket. How long did I sleep? A sound echoed in my stomach and the smell of food told me that I should have woken up a while ago for food.
“Aw, did I wake you up?” Ink asked as he put the food down on the table, “Sorry Easter.”
“Easter got tired from making pillows” I gently pulled my hair out of my face.
“You made all these pillows? I bet you wore tired” Ink told me, “That also means you need to recharge by eating lots of food.”
“We were going to make a fort” Palette told Ink.
“Maybe you guys can keep playing after lunch” Ink hummed, “we’ll eat here… Easter, do you want chicken or ham?”
“Chicken” I hummed and went to sit down in a chair.
Palette giggled, “yay, Palette loves ham.”
“K, here you two go” Ink handed us our food, “Easter, can you handle a lesson on chopsticks, or do you want a fork?”
“Chopsticks are like knitting needles” I mumbled before clearly stating, “chopsticks.”

Chapter Text

I finish the second-to-last seam of the cow plush before turning it inside out. All I needed to do now was to add stuffing, add that final stitch and sew on some button eyes. This cow was going to be perfect.
“I got it” Ink called out as he came in with a brown box, “Sci was super annoyed, but I managed to convince him.”
Alter tilted his head, “convince him of what?”
“A voice box that goes moo” Ink pulled it out of the box, “He kept saying that I could just go to the store and buy one of these but… I wanted it to be magic proof… and waterproof.”
He handed me a black box with a set of wires and a button. Looking at it, it looked like a bomb but more rectangular instead of spherical. Palette pushed the red button as a loud moo filled the room. It’s not a bomb, right?
“Easter, do we need to turn the volume down?” Palette asked me.
I slowly shook my head, “stuffing muffles sound.”
“Easter, do you like it?” Ink then asked.
“N'est-ce pas une bombe ?” I asked him as I wasn’t fully convinced that this was just a sound box.
“Yes, it’s not a bomb, why would I bring home a bomb?” Ink laughed, “did you watch that um… er… action show at Outer’s house?”
“No, Easter only watched the puppets,” I told him.
I slowly put the sound box inside the toy as Ink seemed a bit perplexed about something. Afterward, I filled the cow up with fluffy cloud stuffing and stitched the hole to finish. Looking at it, it was quite a plush cow with the double stabs even if the tips were quite soft at the ends. Slowly adjusting the black and white beast to see the others, Ink’s face turned into amusement.
“Aw, such a cute cow” Ink told me, “Does it have a name?”
“She” I corrected before muttering with embarrassment, “Cow-cow.”
“Cow-cow?” Ink looked a bit defeated but said, “Yes, Cow-cow, the naming skills on par with King Asgore himself.”
Hey, I know that’s an insult! I puffed my cheeks and glare at him.
“I think Cow-cow is a great name” Alter patted my head, “Nice and simple, and not needlessly complex, right?”
I nodded, “point across quick.”
“Yes, Cow-cow will get the point across quickly that you’re indeed holding a stuffed cow” Alter hummed.
“So, does Cow-cow want to play a game?” Palette asked.
“Later,” Ink told him, “I have work that needs to get done, and Alter only planned on watching you till now… right?”
“Yes, I have other children to attend to” Alter stated, “I’ll walk with you guys to the foyer before parting ways.”
“Easter, can you put Cow-cow in your room before we go?” Ink asked me.
I shook my head, “Cow-cow needs playtime.”
Ink thought for a moment before saying, “Okay, but make sure you keep a good eye on Cow-cow.”
“Moo-kay” I giggled and hugged Cow-cow.

“Bye-bye” I waved to Alter.
“See you later, Easter” Alter waved back and left the building.
Turning to Palette, he looked bored, like he couldn’t think of what to do. Was he thinking that I was playing by myself today? Well, I did only bring one toy…
“Hold” I stated while handing Cow-cow to Palette, “talk?”
Palette tilted his head before breaking into laughter, “I really don’t get what you're saying, but Cow-cow says to eat your greens.”
“Alter’s book on animals says that cows eat hay,” I told him, “Is hay for skeleton monsters too?”
“Um… it’s not in the kitchen so I guess not” Palette replied, “but lettuce is like grass and grass is hay.”
“Speaking of food, where does that “flour” stuff come from?” I asked him, “Also sugar.”
Things went on like this for a bit. Palette tried explaining but it seems like his knowledge is limited. Though at least he wasn’t looking bored now.
“Easter” Cross’s voice spoke up as it interrupted the conversation.
Shivering, I slowly looked at him.
The guard looked menacing as he stood straight, “Can we talk in private?”
“Non,” I told him and turned my head away to signal I wasn’t in the mood.
He softly spoke, “Do I need to tell Ink about voices?”
While I did have the voices conversation with Ink, I’m not sure how far Cross will attempt to take it. Though… did I ever tell Cross about voices in my past life? It might have slipped from Blueberry at one point or maybe I did say something that lead to Cross figuring that out.
“Moo” I muttered as I took Cow-cow back from Palette.
Cross slowly went pale as I showed him the toy, “Easter, h-how um…”
I pushed the button, and a loud moo came out. Cross stammered backward with sweat forming on his skull. Ha, Killer was so right about Cross fearing cows.
“This is about what happened last time, right?” Cross asked as he shuffled back a bit more, “Look, I was just trying to help and… can you put the cow down?”
No, I don’t think I will. In fact, I’ll just push this button again. I’ll make you regret that you saw my coding… also threatened to tell Ink about voices.
“K, we’ll talk later” Cross turned around and started to walk off.
Not wanting to let up, I followed him. Pushing the moo button every tenth step, I let him know where the scary cow was. Cross increased his pace in response as I also picked up my speed. That also meant the rate of moos rose steadily with the adjusting pace.
After a while, I slowed down and took heavy breaths. My legs were still not used to moving around despite Killer’s game of tag. I really should fix that as my old body wouldn’t be so winded after a short jog.
“Are you done now?” Cross asked from down the hallway.
Turning around to head back to the foyer, I noticed Palette wasn’t with me. Confused, I wondered if Palette was unable to keep up. Maybe he got held back by Ink? Or he went to get Ink? Where even was this hallway? I know this was the public wing, but was it always this confusing?
“Looks like you’ve gotten yourself lost, Error” Cross replied, “Willing to talk now?”
How does being a bit lost have anything to do with talking?
“Let’s just talk and afterward, we can head back to the foyer, okay?” Cross asked.
Tsk, fine, what do you want to talk about? I turn to face him while tightly hugging Cow-cow.
“First of all, the voices thing still happens, right?” Cross asked.
I rolled my eye lights, “Easter was talking to Palette, not a voice.”
“That wasn’t a yes or no” Cross folded his arms.
“Palette is not a voice” I stated.
Cross stared but when on, “Are you reformed?”
“Easter is not some lap dog” I harshly answered, “if that’s what Cross calls reformed.”
“Are you planning on being a good guy then?” Cross asked.
“Not a guy” I frown, “Easter is Easter. Easter has no reason to return to the old way right now.”
Cross glared, “and if you had a reason?”
“Easter wouldn’t have a choice then” I replied.
“Even if that means going back to killing Ink again?” Cross asked.
Oh yes, Ink and I would fight all the time. When did I forget that? If Ink goes back into full-on creative mode, I’ll have to stop him by any means. As much as I still think he’s a squid… he cares about Easter. An emotion that I didn’t ever expect from him.
“I see” Cross took a deep breath, “You really don’t want to go back to how things wore, right?”
I nodded, “Easter is… tired of pain.”
Cross stared for a bit before asking, “can I ask if you remember how you ended up as Dream’s kid?”
“Error remembers the final battle before a crash,” I told him, “Easter woke up… as a soulling.”
Cross seemed conflicted as he stammered on what to say next.
“If Dream is aware, that must mean Dream is responsible” I bluntly told him, “Explain.”
“Don’t just jump to conclusions” Cross counters.
“Am I wrong?” I asked with venom in my tone.
Cross took a deep breath before saying, “Easter… I don’t think answering that question right now is a good idea. Why not wait for Dream to come to his senses properly in order to tell his story?”
“Fine, but just so you know” I started before speaking with anger in my voice, “the second Easter actually saw Dream as Easter’s mom, Dream turned around and ignored Easter. So don’t think Easter is willing to trust Dream ever again.”
Cross was stunned by my words as he froze up. I felt my sockets fill up with water as the fluids started to distort my sight. Taking my sleeves, I rubbed the gold-tinted water away while trying to remove the emotion.
“I… I understand” Cross finally spoke, “I’ll talk to Dream…”
“Ug, did Easter ask Cross to do that?” I started to stomp my foot, “that bridge has burned and Easter wants nothing to do with that stupid golden so-called guardian of positivity.”
Cross’s expression was unreadable as he stared. He slowly walked up to me and sat closer to my eye level. Being pulled into a hug by Cross, I dropped Cow-cow from the unexpected motion. Soon, my face was covered by Cross’s fluffy jacket as he rubbed my back.
“I didn’t expect you to be so confused, scared, and hurt,” Cross told me.
“I’m not…” I started but stopped as my sockets leak out more tears.
Cross had a humming tone, “You’re just trying your best as Easter, right? Trying so hard to be strong in a den of lions.”
”Y-yeah…” I muttered.
“And what the silly adults are doing isn’t helping you one bit” Cross added.
“Dream and Stretch are very mean,” I sniffled.
“Yes, and Color is handling Stretch and I’m handling Dream” Cross patted my hand, “maybe… maybe things can go back to how things wore before Nightmare hurt Easter?”
I push Cross away from me, “That was an accident. Nightmare didn’t know Easter was there.”
“Right, my mistake” Cross brushed my hair, “but think about how things wore right before that moment.”
I look down for a moment before looking back to Cross, “No, Easter likes Palette, and dada is… not being as much of a squid right now.”
“So… you really don’t want Dream in your life?” Cross asked.
“Non, Easter can’t forgive Dream” I huffed.
“Even if he works for it?” Cross asked me.
“Non” I stomped my foot.
Cross thought before asking, “Even if he gives you chocolate?”
I frowned as Cross doesn’t seem to understand that I’m not changing my mind. Thinking of ways to show my resolve, I recalled how Dream reacted when he first saw my hair growing. Something about strands of positivity? Either way, if I cut my hair, Cross should get the point.
Making a ribbon to tie my hair, I wondered if normal scissors would work or if I needed special ones. I decided to go with enhanced scissors as I focused my magic to make a pair. Using one hand to hold the newly made ponytail, I used my other hand to start snipping at my hair. It was difficult as the scissors could only cut so much at once, but it eventually came off.
“Easter, what…” Cross stammered unsure of how to process.
I threw the hair on the ground and started to stomp on it, “Easter will not forgive Dream!”
“Easter, stop acting like a child!” Cross yelled at me.
“Stop acting like a stubborn mutt then!” I yelled back at him.
Cross gasped but said, “fine, I’ll just tell Ink everything.”
“So Cross wants to force Easter’s hand into killing?” I replied, “that isn’t a star sans thing to do.”
“No, just…” Cross started but said, “What if I just delete your code? I saw where your reincarnation skill was, so it’ll be easy to deal with you now.”
“Dada will make sure Cross gets into big trouble,” I told him.
Cross thought before saying, “I’m sure he’ll forget all about you after a bit.”
Reaching to pick up Cow-cow, I felt my soul starting to race. Cross grabbed my arm and threw me against the wall. I tried to rush forward but Cross already summoned his knife and held it to my neck.
“Now, will you behave?” Cross hissed.
“Cross!” Ink yelled from down the hallway, “Get away from my daughter!”
Cross didn’t move at first but slowly unsummoned his knife. Taking this moment, I went to grab Cow-cow and rushed to where Ink was. Palette peered out from behind Ink before reaching to hug me.
“Now, care to explain what’s going on?” Ink hissed.
Cross looked away, “Easter… refused to forgive Dream.”
Ink was trembling like he was having a hard time containing himself. Palette had a tight hug on me while whispering that everything was okay now. Cross slowly started to sweat as if he had just noticed the grave he dug himself.
“Easter, what’s your side of the story?” Ink asked me while trying to remind calm.
“Cross kept asking Easter to forgive Dream” I fake sniffled, “Threaten Easter in multiple ways if Easter didn’t behave.”
“And your hair?” Ink asked me.
I thought it over before lying, “Cross cut it as part of the threats.”
“No, you cut it yourself” Cross counters.
“Palette, take Easter to the private wing while I chat with Cross” Ink told us, “I think I left a magazine that Easter can look at on the coffee table.”
“Okay, come on Easter” Palette held my hand tightly and turned to leave.
As I followed and then looked back, I noticed Ink summoning his broomie. Looks like chatting wasn’t what Ink really had in mind. Though I should be careful when Ink is done in case Cross told him who I really was.

Once we made it to the private wing then into the living room, Palette stopped suddenly. Confused, I turned to face him. Tears were pouring out of his sockets as I tried to figure out why. Soon, he tightly hugged me again as I slowly returned it.
“Palette was so scared” he cried, “Sister ran off and Palette couldn’t find her. When Palette got Ink to help look and… and… Palette doesn’t want to see sister get hurt!”
I slowly blinked before holding him tighter, “Easter is safe. Palette did a good job by getting dada.”
“B-but… Palette should have been next to Easter the whole time” he cried.
“Brother, Easter shouldn’t have run off like that,” I told him, “Easter is sorry for scaring you so much.”
“B-but, it’s that skeleton’s fault, not Easter’s” he told me.
He kept crying and I didn’t know how else to comfort him. I rubbed his back and took him to the couch to sit down. Palette kept his grip on me as he sniffled, I wondered if I should do something.
Time passed by and he slowly stopped crying, but he didn’t let go. Looking at his sockets, a soft snorting told me he had fallen asleep. Glancing at the clock, it was nap time for us. I should get a blanket and join in on Palette’s nap. I know Ink said I could look at the magazines, but I don’t want to open them right now… hopefully, he won’t be upset when he gets back.

Chapter Text

“Easter, Palette, I’m back” Ink sang as the sound woke me up.
Letting out a yawn, I slowly sat up and rubbed my sockets.
“Oh, did you two take a nap?” Ink asked as I heard him putting down a paper bag on the coffee table.
“Yeah, we had naps” Palette tried to sound excited but he yawns after he spoke.
Ink hummed, “That’s good, so it’s playtime again… no wait… I need to… to…”
I tilted my head and look at Ink.
“Hair, yes that was it was” Ink clapped his hands, “Easter, did you decide on a hairstyle?”
Huh?
“Oh right, we need to go over what haircuts are and styles…” Ink started to ramble.
I blinked slowly and listened to Ink talking about haircuts. I thought it over as I wondered what to do with my hair. Touching it, my mind turned to the familiarity of strings.
“Easter… doesn't know?” I told Ink.
Ink nodded, “Okay, for now, let’s even out your hair and give it some layers.”
He took me to the bathroom and set up a stool and put a front-facing cloak on me. After he put me on the stool, he grabbed a squirt bottle, comb, venus flytraps made of plastic, and scissors. Soon, he combs my hair and twisted portions of it, and had the flytraps bite the hair to the top of my head.
Just as he went to cut the first part, he stopped and then asked, “Easter, this pair of scissors are a bit too dull for hair. Can you make me a new pair to use?”
Not seeing an issue, I attempted to recreate the same pair I used earlier. Handing them to Ink, he gave me a thank you before starting to cut my hair. My mind wondered if making those scissors wore a good idea, but… I shouldn’t think too hard about it.
“Easter, about…” Ink started but then asked, “Easter, can you remind me about what happened to your hair?”
“Cross cut it” I lied as I stuck to my story.
“Can you explain how?” Ink then asked.
“His… oversized knife,” I told him.
Ink was quiet but than stated, “I can tell your hair wasn’t cut in one fell swoop. Plus, there are no scratches along your bones… did you sit there and let me cut it?”
My mouth felt a bit dry, “Easter was scared.”
“Yes, it sounds scary” Ink agreed but it sounds like he was hiding something.
“Dada…” I slowly started to ask, “did Cross… say anything weird?”
“Depends, can you tell me what would be weird coming from him?” Ink asked.
“Dada…” I stammered at first, “did Cross learn a lesson today?”
“Yes, he did,” Ink told me, “Unless you had a specific lesson in mind.”
“Well… Cross claimed that…” I felt uneasy before stating, “that dada would… forget Easter.”
“He did?” Ink took a deep breath, “I… look, your dad has a very bad memory. I try my best and I have a ton of notes written everywhere. I don’t think I’ll forget you completely, okay?”
I didn’t like his answer but… what answer would satisfy me? If he said that he would never forget, I would know it was a lie. If he did say that he would forget, it’ll dishearten me.
“Easter… Dad is trying his best,” Ink told me, “So let’s have a little faith alright? I’ve been getting better at remembering things lately after all. Like, you love anything involving stars and chocolate.”
That lifted my soul a bit, “Yeah, dada is being a good dada.”
“Thank you, Easter,” Ink had a smile on his face.

Once Ink finished cutting my hair, I slowly reached up to touch the hair tips. It was jaw length and now I had proper bangs over my eye sockets. A once-forgotten breeze goes past the back of my neck causing a slight shiver.
Ink asked while holding a mirror behind my head, “How’s our cute little Bob?”
“Easter not Temmie” I giggled.
“But it is a bob cut” Ink combs the bangs, “is this a good length?”
“Yes, Easter likes length,” I told Ink.
Ink pulled off the front-facing cloak as I noticed all the hair everywhere.
“Easter, I’m going to clean up the room now,” Ink told me as he put me on the floor, “do you want to play with Palette in the meantime?”
“Okay,” I told him and went off to where Palette was.
Palette was stacking blocks in the living room as I sat next to him. Palette handed me a block as I stared at it. Do I just put this on the tower? Do I make my own tower?
“Hello children” a voice spoke up, “Is your father nearby?”
I turn to see a Toriel in more casual clothing than usual.
“Dada cleaning bathroom” I pointed.
Palette asked, “Should Palette go get him?”
“Could you tell him that Dr. Toriel is here?” She asked of Palette.
Palette nodded and went off.
“Doctor?” I asked.
“Yes,” Toriel went to sit down, “Though, unlike Medic, I’m a developmental psychologist. I help all sorts of children.”
Did Ink request her? Must be about my reaction to imaginary friends… Or it’s something else I’m not aware of?
“Is this about what Easter said about imaginary friends?” I directly asked.
“While I was told through email about that story, that’s not the overall reason why I’m here today,” Toriel told me.
I thought before asking, “was it about today?”
“Depends, can you tell me about it?” Toriel asked me.
I’ll take it as a no than…
“Dr. Toriel” Ink stated as he came in, “I hope the home visit isn’t too much trouble.”
“No trouble at all” Toriel replied, “now that we’re all here, we should fill in Easter about what’s going on.”
“Did I forget to… oh, I didn’t even write it down did I?” Ink mostly said to himself before going, “Easter, this is Dr. Toriel. She’s from Medic’s AU and oversees the progress of knowledge and skills of growing children of both human and monster.”
I tilted my head, “Is Easter not doing well with Alter?”
“No, Easter is doing very well with Alter’s lessons” Toriel explained to me, “This is more about skills that children naturally learn.”
“She’s… referring to when you’d speak through dolls,” Ink told me, “And other behaviors.”
“Do you want to speak to Toriel about why you wore doing that?” Toriel asked me.
I looked at her for a moment before saying, “Non.”
“Did it feel like you’d be giving yourself away if you spoke?” Toriel asked me.
Something about those words causes me to flinch. Did Toriel know that I was Error? No, that can’t be it, right?
“I see, let’s put a pin in that topic until you're ready” Toriel nodded, “Ink, was there anything left out of the email you wanted to say?”
“Depends, what was in the email again?” Ink tilted his head.
“Why don’t you and Palette leave for the next room and look it over while I talk with Easter?” Toriel asked him.
“Okay, Palette, let’s go,” Ink told him.
The two soon left as I was now alone with Toriel. Where should I sit? Is staying here, okay? Was Toriel a threat?
“Easter, how about you show me how you like to play?” Toriel asked me, “I can see some blocks out. Does that sound like a good solo game?”
I tilted my head and turned to the tower. Play with the blocks as normal? Okay, I’ll just sort them by color and size. I wonder why Toriel wasn’t asking me questions… unless this game is a ruse in the form of answering her questions.
“I see, do you like sorting your toys?” Toriel asked after a bit.
“Yes, Easter hates messes,” I told Toriel.
“Why?” Toriel asked me.
“Because messes are bad?”
“Says who?”
“Easter???”
“So, does your dad like messes?”
“Yes.”
“Is that a problem?”
“Yes.”
“How is it a problem?”
I started as I wondered how to word it. I can’t just say that mess are a huge problem for the multiverse.
“Let’s change focuses,” Toriel says after seeing me stumped, “how does a jigsaw puzzle sound?”
She took out a box from her bag and put the pieces on the table.
“Can Easter sort these puzzle pieces, so they fit together?” She asked me.
I walked over and looked at the colorful pieces. Looking at all the colors made my sockets feel strained as I couldn’t figure out the actual shape. I turned the colorful pieces upside down so I can work better. Slowly, I put the blank pieces together until I finished the puzzle.
“Great job, Easter” Toriel told me before asking, “Can you explain why the pieces are upside-down?”
“The colors… distracting blends blobs” I word out.
“Do the colors make Easter’s skull hurt too much to focus?” Toriel asked me.
I nodded, “in a way.”
“Does Easter want to try doing the puzzle upside-up or is she all done with the puzzle?” Toriel asked me.
“Easter… can try…” I slowly reached to mix the puzzle pieces up again.
“You don’t need to force yourself” Toriel made sure I knew.
“Easter… doesn’t want to try,” I told her.
Toriel kept asking me to play with or handle the toys she brought and asked for my input about them. Soon she asked me to write down the alphabet and numbers. This moved to Toriel showing me pictures and asking me to describe what was going on in them.
“Let’s take a break” Toriel put the photos down, “Can Toriel talk to your father?”
I nodded and left to find Ink. Not finding them in the dining room, I went to Palette’s and my bedroom. Inside, Ink was telling him a story about a red-nosed reindeer monster being picked on by all the other monsters.
“Dada” I slowly called out, “Toriel wants to talk to you.”
“Okay,” Ink put the book down, “Palette, I’m going to talk to Toriel, stay here with Easter.”
Ink soon left the room as I went to my bed. While I did have a nap earlier, I was feeling tired from all the talking. Palette watched me for a bit before holding up the book he was reading earlier with Ink.
“Can Palette practice reading?” he asked softly.
I nodded and went to lie down.
“Once upon a time” Palette slowly read each word, “there was a red nose reindeer named…”

“I’m back” Ink opened the door which startled me.
Palette closed the book, “Palette read story to Easter.”
“Aw, that sounds nice” Ink replied before asking, “Easter, are you ready to talk one on one to Toriel?”
I nodded and slowly left the room and went back to the living room. Toriel had some papers out as she was organizing them and putting some away. I tried to peak at them, but Toriel gathered up the rest before I could.
“Easter, are you ready to continue?” Toriel asked me.
“Comme ci comme ça” I replied and went to sit down.
“Ink told me he was teaching you French” Toriel commented, “What does that phrase mean in English?”
“So-so” I answered, “Indifferent, neither good nor bad.”
“Good” Toriel hummed, “does Easter like learning French?”
“Comme ci comme ça” I told her.
“I see, does Easter find French hard or easy to learn?” Toriel then asked.
“Sentences are hard” I answered.
“So, making sentences is hard but the words are easy?” Toriel concluded.
“For most part, oui” I told her.
Toriel nodded, “branching out a little, does Easter find communicating hard?”
“Yes,” I answered without a second thought.
“Can Easter tell me about that?” Toriel asked for.
“Easter doesn’t know how to describe why nose gets leaky at times,” I told her.
Toriel nodded, “Like you don’t know the words or where to begin?”
“Easter thinking yes to both?” I told her.
“I see,” Toriel wrote something down before asking, “does Easter feel misunderstood or has a hard time connecting to others?”
“Nebby understands Easter” I muttered before stating, “most monsters don’t get Easter.”
“Does your father or Palette understand Easter?” Toriel asked.
I thought it over before saying, “dada can be squid. He’s not being as much of a squid lately.”
Toriel thought for a moment before moving on, “Does Easter feel like she’s different from other children but doesn’t know why?”
“Easter knows she’s different,” I told her.
“Can you explain the why?” Toriel asked.
I thought before saying, “Easter doesn’t understand how normal children play. Goth and Palette know how normal children play.”
“Normal… so Easter feels like she’s not normal?” Toriel asked.
“Yes,” I replied.
Toriel then asked, “Does Easter mimic behaviors she finds to be normal or correct?”
“Yes, Easter doesn’t want more attention,” I told her.
“So, when Easter is quiet, she really asking to be left alone for a bit?” Toriel asked.
I processed the question before saying, “factor.”
“Is being a crowd tiring or overwhelming for Easter?” Toriel asked.
“Yes, especially if they stare” I pulled my legs to be near my chest.
Toriel noticed this and changed the topic, “how about we talk about schedules? How do you feel about your normal routine?”
“Easter likes knowing when sleep and food is,” I told Toriel.
“What about when there is a change to routine or when something unexpected happens?” Toriel then asked.
I frowned, “Easter no likes. If plan changes that what else change? What does Easter need to focus on?”
“Does changes to plans feel risky or unsettling?” Toriel asked.
“Both” I answered clearly.
Toriel nodded, “How about rules? How does Easter feel about rules?”
“Rules tell Easter what is expected of Easter” I told her.
“So, you like knowing what is within range and what isn’t?” Toriel asked.
I nodded, “Easter likes knowing what she’s allowed to do. Like how many chocolates to steal.”
Toriel laughed, “is chocolate your favorite food?”
“Yes” I nodded.
“What about other foods?” Toriel asked.
I slowly summoned my tongues to remember the way food tastes, “Comme ci comme ça.”
“Are there any foods that you just can’t stand?” Toriel asked me.
I slowly thought it over before shaking my head.
“Are there any foods other than the chocolate you really liked?” Toriel then asked.
“Easter likes cherries with chocolate” I started before saying, “Easter remembers when she was at Epic’s house, he made kitty crepes. Easter liked kitty crepe.”
“Kitty crepe, what’s that?” Toriel asked.
“It’s like tuna crepe with vegetables to make a kitty face,” I told her.
Toriel nodded, “Sounds cute, does Easter remember what emotion the kitty’s face was expressing?”
I slowly tilted my head, “Normal kitty face?”
“So did Epic make it especially for you?” Toriel asked.
“Easter wanted chocolate crepes for lunch so Epic made a kitty crepe” I answered.
“That sounds extra nice of Epic” Toriel told me.
I slowly nodded.
“So, your father told me you spent some time in Outertale” Toriel started, “Can you tell me about how that was?”
“Easter really liked being there,” I told Toriel, “it was far away from the council and other stuff.”
“What did Easter like to do during her stay there?” Toriel asked.
“Stars, Easter loves stars” I started before saying, “Outer is good with tea parties, Easter likes tea parties. They had puppets on tv, and Easter loves puppets.”
“How does Easter feel about Outer and Color?” Toriel asked me.
I stated, “Easter likes them.”
“Does Easter see them as family?” Toriel asked.
“Oui, Outer family is Easter’s family” I told her.
Toriel had a soft smile, “Outer family? Does that mean if Outer and Color have a kid, Easter will see them as a sibling?”
“Oui, Easter will be big sister” I told her.
“What about Palette, does Easter sees him as a brother?” Toriel asked.
I thought over the question more before saying, “Palette is a good brother.”
“Let’s moved to an earlier topic” Toriel stated, “remember when Toriel asked Easter if Easter was being quiet because of a reason?”
“You asked if I was being quiet because I was worried about giving myself away,” I told her.
“Do you want to discuss it or is it too stressful for you?” Toriel asked me.
“Easter… is still worried about it… but most of it was when Easter was baby-babybones” I tried to explain, “Easter not sure why she only spoke with puppets after the accident with Uncle Nightmare.”
“You remember being that young?” Toriel asked before clearing her throat, “sorry, ignore that comment. So, why does Easter think it’s important not to give herself away?”
“Like… if monsters knew about the truth about Easter… things will turn violent,” I told her.
Toriel slowly nodded, “Like if other monsters saw you as different, they would hurt Easter over it?”
I nodded and hugged my legs. That wasn’t the whole truth, but it’s better than nothing.
“Well, I know that Ink will accept Easter and keep her safe no matter what,” Toriel told me, but it felt like a lie to me, “is trust hard for Easter?”
I slowly nodded, “Dream and Cross betray Easter directly.”
“Your father explained the situation to me” Toriel explained, “Losing a parent figure is hard, right?”
I nodded, “Easter doesn’t understand Dream.”
“And how does that make Easter feel?” Toriel asked.
“Hurt?” I pointed to my chest, “scared.”
“How is Easter handling these emotions?” Toriel followed up with.
I tilted my head.
Toriel tried to explain, “Does Easter have an outlet for these emotions?”
I shook my head.
“Changing focuses, you thought Palette was a voice at first” Toriel started, “Does Easter want to explain that?”
I shook my head.
“I think I’ve asked enough questions” Toriel leaned back, “Does Easter have any questions for Toriel?”
“What is Toriel looking for?” I asked.
“Toriel is seeing if Easter has a mental disorder,” Toriel explained to me, “Like… if soul’s thoughts are like the fabric in your dolls. I’m seeing if Easter is a normal fabric or a specialty-made fabric along with the types of stitches used to make the doll.”
“Easter feels weird about that description” I muttered before asking, “Is Easter in trouble?”
“Why would Easter be in trouble for being different?” Toriel asked before saying, “Don’t worry, this is just to make sure that Easter has all the tools she needs while growing up.”
“Tools?” I asked.
“Like special classes and having a network for solving unique problems,” Toriel told me, “Again, don’t worry. I can tell you’re already a bright young girl.”
I still don’t get it.
“Easter, do you have any other questions?” Toriel asked me.
I shook my head.
“Alright, can you go grab your father for me? I want to talk to him alone about the results” Toriel told me.
I felt a shiver but nodded and went to grab him again. As Ink left me alone with Palette, I wondered what Toriel’s conclusion was. Did she figure out that I’m a reincarnated soul? Was Ink going to be upset over the news?
“Easter, what’s wrong?” Palette asked me.
I told him, “Easter… doesn’t know if something is wrong…”
Palette nodded and went to sit with me, “Palette thinks everything is okay and it’s going to be okay.”
We sat quietly like this as we waited. Eventually, Ink returned, and I couldn’t read his expression.
“Easter, Palette,” Ink started, “We’re going to have a family discussion with Toriel.”
Palette nodded, “Okay, let’s go Easter.”
“Non” I curled up.
Ink came over and patted my head, “Don’t worry Easter, this is so we’re all on the same page.”
“Non, it can’t be anything good” I huffed.
“Easter, do you want to hide from what Toriel has to say?” Ink asked.
“Non…” I told him.
Ink picked me up, “Listen, once Toriel explains her results things will get a lot easier. In terms of understanding each other and… well… Let’s just say I’m certain Easter will feel a lot better after hearing what Toriel has to say.”
“Fine…” I muttered.

Chapter Text

“Easter, how are you feeling?” Toriel asked as we came out.
I mumbled incoherently and pressed my face into Ink’s chest.
“She’s nervous,” Ink told Toriel as he sat down with me on his lap.
“Easter, I understand things are taking an unexpected turn,” Toriel told me, “But this is to help your life in the long run.”
Fine, I’ll listen to what you have to say. This better not have anything to do with being reincarnated.
“Palette, how about you?” Toriel asked.
Palette answered, “I’m curious.”
“Okay, Easter” Toriel told me, “You’re on the autism spectrum.”
Was that code for reincarnation?
“It means you have things that you are very good at, like the shapes in the puzzle” Toriel started, “but it also means you have a lot of challenges like how distracting the colors in the puzzle wore.”
So, this has nothing to do with reincarnation?
“So as might come to notice, some skills and lessons come very easy with other skills and lessons coming by very hard” Toriel explained.
So… this is about my skill development? Wait, she mentioned how colors were distracting… Does that mean this is about how I process things?
“Is Easter not learning at the right speed?” I asked.
“No-no. Easter is learning at Easter’s pace” Toriel told me, “There is nothing wrong with that.”
I thought for a moment before stating, “dada said easier understand, how?”
“Well, it’s common for those with autism to be or feel misunderstood. With that in mind, we can set up tools to help with understanding each other” Toriel told me, “So it’s about understanding that Easter has her own way of thinking and that your father has his own way of thinking and discussing it.”
“Easter can be understood?” came out of my mouth as I wondered if that was possible.
“Yes, with patience and learning good communication skills,” Toriel told me.
I slowly nodded but there is no way I’m going to talk to Ink about why destruction is necessary for the multiverse.
“Does Easter need a moment to process?” Toriel asked me.
I shook my head, “Easter can continue.”
Toriel nodded, “So the touch sensitivity we’ve talked about, it’s also a part of the autism spectrum. I know you’ve stated that you’re okay with certain touch now, but it’s okay to state when touch is uncomfortable or too much for you.”
Wait, so… this isn’t just about a skillset and thinking as part of used to being Error? Like… I had autism as Error? Is that why I had crashes as Error? But where were the crashes now?
“Crash?” I squeaked out.
“That’s one way to explain an overstimulation,” Toriel told me, “Where too much is happening all at once, you can feel overwhelmed or in pain and this can lead to wanting to escape or crying.”
Not quite what I was trying to ask about…
“Course feeling overstimulated isn’t just related to touch,” Toriel told me, “It can be any sensory, emotional, intellectual, and/or social stresses. So, when too much is occurring, it’s okay to say that you need a break.”
Though I guess the glitches I had as Error made overstimulation turn into a crash. Course now I’m assuming…
“Did Easter always have autism?” I asked.
“Yes,” Toriel answered.
So, if Toriel is correct and autism was always with me, even as Error… Ug, it’s not like thinking about the connection changes anything from back then. I should focus more on moving forward… right?
“Easter, you seem frustrated” Ink spoke up, “Is something wrong?”
“Dada, Easter… is okay, right?” I asked softly.
“Um… Easter didn’t do anything wrong if that’s what you mean” Ink responded, “I know this is a lot to take in but knowing can help us out in the long run. Okay?”
“Does… this change how Dream sees Easter?” I asked him.
Ink took a deep breath, “I’m not planning on talking to Dream about non-work topics right now.”
“What about the council?” I then asked.
“Easter… I… I want to make sure the council doesn’t get any idea about getting themselves involved in our private lives” Ink told me.
“Good” I replied, “but can… Outer know?”
“Yes, I’ll make sure Outer and Color know” Ink patted my head.
I slowly nodded as I wasn’t sure how Outer and Color would take it… let alone Killer. Course Killer shouldn’t change much after that one week together. Though I wonder if Blueberry will hear from them about this.
“And Alter will also know so he knows how to plan out lessons” Ink added as more of his own note.
“Yes, and Easter, your father is pretty busy with the peace signing right now so most of the changes you’ll see will take place afterward, okay?” Toriel told me, “Like adjusting the home schedule to be more stable and not… so work focus.”
“Okay,” I nodded.
“Yes, I’ll need at least a month for a proper vacation from the council and… him” Ink sighed as he must be referring to Dream, “we can focus more on what home life needs than.”
Needs? Things seem fine… aside from being so close to the council.
“Does dada have a vacation house?” I asked him.
“Vacation house? Yeah, that’ll work better than staying here” Ink muttered as if half-listening before saying, “I’ll think more on the matter later.”
“Easter loves stars,” I told him.
“Yes-yes, I’ll make sure the house has a view of the sky” Ink nodded.
Sky doesn’t mean 24/7 stars. I want to take a vacation in an Outertale!
“Moving on” Toriel spoke up, “How does Easter feel about autism?”
I slowly thought before saying, “Easter… thinks it answers questions.”
“Does Easter have any other unanswered questions?” Toriel asked me.
I slowly thought before asking, “Easter is okay, right?”
“Yes, Easter is a fine young skeleton that’s still growing,” Toriel told me.
“So… um… does this has anything to do with voices?” I asked as I recalled an earlier conversation.
“No,” Toriel told me, “It’s more like… what’s normal for a lot of monsters might not be normal for Easter. Like some concepts like imaginary friends don’t come naturally and need to be properly explained. That’s why it’s important for Easter to ask questions even if they seem abnormal, crazy, or stupid.”
I glanced down and to the side. The only thing I could think of to question right now was the state of the multiverse, but I don’t believe Ink would listen. Sure, he’s acting like a father but… for how long?
“I think we should take a break for the day” Toriel spoke as she got up, “Easter, you did a great job today.”
“Yes, it is getting late” Ink stated, “thanks again for coming Doctor Toriel.”
Ink soon walked Toriel out while I stayed in the living room with Palette. A small yawn came from my mouth as I noticed my skull was feeling a bit sore. Palette yawned and went over to the blocks.
“Easter did you take the tower down?” Palette asked.
“Yes, Toriel asked me to play,” I told him.
Palette nodded and took out a block.
“So… things are the same when it comes to… what type of games we play and all that?” Palette asked after half-building his tower.
“I don’t see why not” I replied.
“The only real difference will be with lessons, right?” Palette then asked.
I shrugged, “same answer.”
Palette thought for a moment before saying, “Palette loves sister.”
“Huh, where did that come from?” I asked.
“Because that’s a normal family thing to tell sister” Palette smiled, “besides, it’s the truth. Does sister love brother back?”
A hollow feeling entered my soul as I replied, “Easter couldn’t imagine a better brother.”
Vague memories of a Papyrus entered my skull… from before I ended up in the anti-void as Error. Like the words, I had spoken wore some sort of lie.
Palette smiled, “aw, Palette isn’t that great.”
“I’m back” Ink announced, “How are my two favorite skeletons?”
“Great” Palette giggled.

After a normal evening and being put to bed, I woke up from a sensation of my mouth being dry. Deciding that chocolate milk would fix the issue, I slipped out of bed and tiptoed my way out of the room. To my surprise, there was a light on in the dining room as I walked closer.
“Was Error autistic?” Ink sighed the question out.
I froze as I stood in place.
“The way he avoided contact… the way he’d talk sometimes” Ink rambled.
Was he… close to figuring out who I am? Even if he’s rambling about how Error behaves, it’s still dangerous for similarities to be grounded. I should…
“Dada?” I squeaked and entered the room.
“Easter, another nightmare?” Ink asked as he straightened up a bit.
I pointed to my mouth, “Dry.”
“Oh, thirsty” Ink went to grab a cup, “Let’s get you some water.”
“Choco-milk” I asked.
Ink laughed, “okay, you can have chocolate milk.”
I went to sit down as Ink poured the smooth brown liquid into a cup.
“Easter, um… can I ask how far back you can remember?” Ink asked as he handed me the cup.
I thought it over as Toriel seemed surprised when I remembered being brought home for the first time. Should I lie by saying it happened sometime after I was brought home? No, Toriel most likely told Ink…
“Easter doesn’t know how to answer,” I told him.
“Okay um… does Easter remember… a very white place?” Ink asked.
I froze as I stared at Ink. Did he figure it out already? No… he must be talking about something else like…
“The night Uncle Taco disappeared?” I asked.
“Yeah, that was an um… snowdin in underswap” Ink recalled.
Okay so he wasn’t talking about the anti-void… that’s good.
“Can I have a reminder of what happened?” Ink asked for.
I looked at my hands, “Fatal Error…”
“Yeah, that guy…” Ink tapped his skull, “actually, can you remind me of who he is?”
“The second destroyer” I frowned.
“Right” Ink hummed and went, “The stuff he was saying that night… which was?”
I tilted my head, “Dada put Easter in a sound-proof stroller.”
“What about before that?” Ink asked for.
“Easter… couldn’t understand a word,” I told him.
Ink seemed conflicted as he stared at me with a question mark in each socket though the one in the left socket was upside down.
“He had a glitched accent, that’s right” Ink finally laughed it off, “He sounded a lot like… anyways, what happened after the fight?”
“Dada painted an ailes” I told him.
“Now I remember, you said the wing instead of arm” Ink snorted, “That was when we started French lessons.”
I blushed and looked away. Why did I have to remind him about that part like that?
“Aw, you’re so cute when you blush” Ink poked my cheek.
I stuck one of my tongues out in protest.
Ink snapped a photo while laughing, “Sorry, but you look so cute right now.”
Reaching for the camera, I wanted to delete the image. Ink just laughed and held it out of my range of reaching distance. Placing one hand on Ink’s shoulder for balance, I tried to reach even higher. Jumping slightly, I almost reached the camera, but I felt Ink leaning away from me. No, the chair was tipping over.
Closing my sockets, I tried to think of pillows for a soft landing. Feeling fabric under my hands, I assumed I made some but noticed hard glass rods. Opening my sockets, I noticed Ink had also fallen with me and had me tight in his arms. So… I didn’t make any pillows…
“You, okay?” Ink asked me.
Ink… actually protected me. Looking for that camera, it was broken next to Ink’s skull like he had let it go in order to hold me. Even though I was trying to destroy the image on the camera he kept me safe… Sure he’s protected me before and even lost an arm but… to keep me safe while I was in the middle of an attempt to destroy something directly. Was Doctor Toriel telling the truth when she said that Ink would accept me and keep me safe no matter what?
“Ma fille, where does it hurt?” Dad sat up and looked me over.
N-no, I shouldn’t think like this. The second dad finds out that I’m Error, he’ll kill me. I must remember that. I need to remember that.
“Dada…” I squeaked, “the camera.”
“Oh, I have all the photos auto-saved on the multi-cloud whenever it takes a photo,” Ink told me, “so I can stand to lose a camera or a hundred without forgetting the memories it holds.”
Of course… to Ink, I didn’t even have a chance of destroying that photo. How silly of me to think otherwise.
“But even if it wasn’t backed up, I can’t ignore ma fille when she’s in danger” Ink playfully tapped my nose bridge.
S-stupid squid.
“Easter… should go back to bed now,” I told him.
“Yeah, it’s late” Ink held me in his arms, “and even creators need their rest.”
As Ink carried me off, I looked at where the broken camera was. Right where Ink had landed was a soft pillow. Strange, I thought my magic had failed to work in time.

Chapter Text

“And that wraps up English for today,” Alter told us and clapped his hands, “I have a fun project idea. Do you two want to hear about it?”
I felt a bit bored as I wondered what sort of weird homework Alter came up with.
“What is it?” Palette asked with excitement.
Alter put three ceramic bowls on the table. Each of the bowls wore white as I wondered what was going on. It’s not like Alter to give us art projects.
“We’re going to break these bowls” Alter stated brightly.
“Huh?” Palette already looks put off.
“We’re breaking these bowls” Alter repeated, “then gluing them back together.”
I tilted my head. Why break them if we’re going to fix them?
Palette sighed, “can Palette do something else?”
“Okay” Alter looked sad but accepted it, “what about you Easter?”
I stared at the bowls as I wondered about Palette’s reaction to me breaking something. Would he count it as destruction and attack me? No, Alter was asking for this so he shouldn’t react…
“Easter is curious,” I told him.
“Great, let’s get this set up,” Alter told me as he put one of the bowls into a bag, “we’re putting the bowl in here, so pieces don’t go flying when it breaks.”
Alter pulled out various tools on the table before signaling me to take one. Grabbing the tiny hammer, I wondered what Alter was actually planning. He nodded and put the bag in front of me.
“Now Easter, I want you to imagine getting hurt,” Alter told me, “It doesn’t need to be physical. Just the feeling of being broken.”
So… like when… Dream directly threaten me at the peace meeting?
“Channel that feeling into the bowl. Like where it hurt and use the hammer to express the impact” Alter told me.
Okay um… this spot feels like a soul… I guess? Then um… channel the impact into the hammer. Taking a deep breath, my skull echoed words as I hit the bowl with the hammer. A loud clay-based shattering filled the room as I flinched expecting pain towards me. After a while, nothing happened as I felt my imaginary lungs taking deep breaths.
“You’re doing great, Easter” Alter told me, “Now let’s feel how the pieces were broken. It’s okay to feel broken like the bowl.”
As in open the bag or through the bag? He meant through the bag as Alter wouldn’t want to risk injury to a child. So, feel how things wore broken…
“When you're ready, we can take the pieces out,” Alter told me.
Nodding, I gently pulled out the broken pieces and placed them in front of me. I organize them like a jigsaw puzzle even if I can’t put the pieces together just yet. Alter seemed impressed based of his calm smile and soft eye lights.
“Good, now we’re going to put some gloves on before gluing and connecting the pieces together,” Alter told me.
Putting rubber gloves on my hands, Alter pulled out the glue and a tiny brush.
“As we put the pieces together, imagine putting yourself back together,” Alter told me, “remember we’re keeping the scars and not hiding them.”
Keeping the scars? Oh, the cracks. Okay um… this piece and that piece need to come together first since they are the best parts to keep the rest together as I glue things. Now this part… and that part… After a while, I finish gluing the bowl back together.
“Now we’re going to let the glue dry,” Alter told me, “This is a good time for a snack before we moved to the next part.”
“Chocolate snack” I raised my hands.
Alter let out a sigh, “No, we’re doing something a bit healthier.”

After a “baby” carrot snack, we came back to work on the project again.
“Now we’re going to file off the excess glue,” Alter told me, “As we go over the cracks, imagine the loss you experienced and maybe room for new information.”
Nodding, I gently held the bowl as it still seems fragile. Filing off the glue, the stings of a loss of a parent going through my soul. My sockets felt wet as I worked.
“Easter, do you need a break?” Alter asked me.
I shook my head.
“Okay, now” Alter pulled out a paint bottle, “Easter is filling the cracks with gold paint. It’s the highlight of what you went through. We’re not hiding the trauma but telling the story through the bowl.”
Nodding, I went to paint the cracks. The story… story… wait…
“Easter” I pointed at the bowl.
“Yes, this is Easter’s story” Alter stated.
I shook my head, “Easter… bones… same.”
Holding out my arm. The depression lines filled with butter yellow echoed scars from my past life. Though my hand itself had a new scar from Stretch.
“Ah, you think the bowl looks like Easter’s bones” Alter finally understood, “I’m sure it’s just a coincidence with how you inherited your father’s tattoos.”
I frown, “Bowl is Easter.”
“Yes, that’s the point of the project” Alter replied.
I don’t think he understands, but okay.

After I finished painting, I stretched my back by reaching up.
“I hope it’s okay that we use the private wing” Ink spoke up from the hallway, “Alter has other children that need him and…”
“Dada home” I got up and rushed for him, “Easter broke a bowl.”
“You did?” Ink looked at my hands, “did you hurt yourself?”
“No, Easter glued it up and painted it” I pointed, “see?”
“We’re wore doing a kintsugi lesson” Alter explained.
Ink nodded, “Easter, can you explain what Alter is saying?”
“Easter thinks of something painful and breaks bowl” I started, “then we feel the pieces and glue them together. Then we file to remove glue and draw eye lights in with the golden paint.”
“Oh, now I remember” Ink patted my head, “was it nice to get those emotions out?”
“Yeah, bowl is Easter” I told him.
Ink smiled, “Does Easter want to do more art therapy projects like this?”
I nodded, “Easter understands the bowl, Easter likes bowl.”
“Aw, can you thank Alter for teaching you?” Ink asked of me.
I turned to Alter, “Merci, Easter wants to do this again.”
“You’re welcome, Easter” Alter got up with a bag filled with leftovers from the project, “and yes, let’s do this again.”
“Yay,” I giggled.
Ink nodded, “thanks again for always helping us out.”
“No problem, I’ll be off now” Alter nodded and waved, “until next time.”
“Bye-bye” I waved.
As Alter left, I noticed two skeletons that Ink must have brought home. Abyss and Lunar must be here to review plans for the signing. As much as I hate to mix business with the private wing, I would rather stick to the private wing right now.
“Hello,” I waved.
“Hi, Easter” Abyss started, “It’s nice to see you doing well.”
“Easter broke a bowl today” I pointed.
Lunar let out a light giggle, “we might have overheard you tell Ink all about it.”
“You did? Oh yeah…” I thought before asking, “dada wants to do some work here today?”
“Oh, that’s right” Ink suddenly remembers, “we were finalizing the plans. Easter, can you help us by making sure I stay on track?”
“Okay,” I nodded.
Just as everybody started to sit down to start talking, I noticed a liquid coming out of my nose. Ug, again? At least it seemed delayed this time… but why? Was it because I was happy about the bowl earlier?
“Now um… floor plan and seating chart” Ink stated as he pulled out a picture.
Abyss and Lunar looked it over for a moment before the conversation started…
“Horror should be placed away from the food, so he’s not tempted to wander off during the signing” Lunar stated, “Keep the gang away from Cross in case old beef comes up. We should also place Killer over here, so he’s not tempted to act if Dream says something.”
Ink scribbled before saying, “How’s that?”
“Good but… Dust will want to record the event on his phone. I know there will be a Mettaton news service at the event, but let’s put Dust in a better recording position that wouldn’t pick up too much glare of the sunlight” Lunar explained.
Ink tapped his pencil making his changes.
“Perfect, Abyss?” Lunar asked.
“Let’s put Outer and Color closer to the gang since they are the most trustworthy to not start a fight” Abyss stated, “Also, move…”
It was at that point I heard Palette coming over. Wait, was he off on his own while I was working with Alter? I noticed he froze before rushing to me. He pulled on my arm as if there was a dangerous Stretch on the loose.
“What is it Palette?” I asked him.
“Bedroom” Palette told me.
I tilted my head and glanced over to the others. Looking back to Palette, I shook my head. There wasn’t any danger here… what’s up with him?
“Sister, please… that skeleton is dangerous” Palette stated while pointing to Lunar.
I shook my head and decided to ignore him. Palette huffed and sat down next to me while staring daggers at Lunar. Paying attention to the discussion, I wondered how long it was going to take.
As soon as they finished the seating arrangement, I noticed somebody had left out. Should I ask? Yeah, I should.
“Dada, where Easter?”
“You’re sitting in the living room” Ink answered.
I shook my head and pointed, “Where Easter?”
“Oh, um… over here” Ink pointed at a larger map, “at the temporary daycare space.”
I frowned, “Why?”
“Because Geno and Reaper are attending and asked if there will be a space for Goth to play” Ink responded, “Geno also told me that Goth wants to play with you again.”
But I want to see the signing even if half of it doesn’t make sense to me.
“Besides, it’s not good for your soul if you get a magic nosebleed and…” Ink paused and looked at my face, “when did your nose start leaking again?”
“Um… just after dada came home,” I told him.
Ink got up, “Lunar, Abyss, I need a moment to help Easter. Can you go over the details while I’m away?”
“Yes, we can do that” Lunar responded.
Ink took my head and pulled me down the hallway. Heading into the kitchen, Ink started to pull out a chocolate push-pop. He came over and handed me a tissue to clean my face before letting me have the cold treat.
Palette spoke up, “Why is Lunar here? She’s dangerous.”
“Lunar? Why would Abyss’s girlfriend be dangerous?” Ink replied.
“There is a lot of negativity coming from Lunar” Palette answered.
Ink thought before saying, “That doesn’t mean Lunar is dangerous… Easter how’s your nose hole?”
“Better,” I told him.
Ink rubbed his skull before saying, “Anyways, why don’t you two stay here or in the bedroom while I finish up?”
“Okay” Palette stated while nudging me.
I sighed, “Fine… but only because I have a choco.”
“If you two need anything, have Palette get me” Ink stated before walking down the hallway.
Frowning, I summoned all my tongues and started to lick the frozen treat.
“Sister, what’s wrong? Nose hole burning?” Palette asked.
“Easter wants to see plans,” I told him, “Easter wants to see signing.”
Palette patted my head, “don’t worry, Dad hired a Mettaton news to record everything. We can watch it before we go to bed that day.”
I whined, “Not same…”
“Well… Dream and Cross will be there… at the signing” Palette pointed out, “Would Easter be okay sitting so close to them?”
“No” I replied while looking at my chocolate, “fine, let’s not risk an incident.”
Palette patted my back, “Palette can sneak over during the signing and grab some sweets for sister and tell her how’s it going.”
“Easter would like that but… she would rather if Palette stayed nearby,” I told him.
Palette smiled, “Palette can do that.”

A few hours later, Ink came back.
“Easter, Palette, time to say goodbye to our guests” Ink chirped.
As I went over, my nose hole started to leak again. Ug…
“Pega-byss, Lunar” I waved.
Lunar nodded and got down to my level, “Looks like that leak came back… here.”
Lunar pulled out a handkerchief and handed it to me. It didn't stop the flow but it cleaned up a bit of it. After a while, I gave up and handed the cloth back to Lunar who put it away. Though I notice two details as she did so… a violet signature of “NM” and burn marks on the fingers that held the cloth.
“Lunar… does Easter magic hurt?” I asked as I remember Lunar’s hand after she touched my hair last time.
Lunar shook her head, “No, of course not.”
“Hand” I pointed.
Lunar hid it slightly, “cooking accident.”
Abyss looked concerned, “cooking accident? Is your hand, okay? Does it hurt?”
“I’ll be fine,” Lunar told him, “It’s just a light burn.”
“Also… what does NM stand for?” I asked.
“Huh?” Lunar tilted her head.
“The cloth had NM on it. What does NM mean?” I asked.
Lunar thought before saying, “Oh, it means Not Meaningful. It’s how I label fabrics that have no personal meaning.”
That… doesn’t make any sense… It’ll be easier to mark special handkerchiefs. Why… Wait… NM… Nightmare? Does Lunar have connections to Nightmare? No, Nightmare doesn’t give handkerchiefs to anybody. Did Lunar steal it? No… that’ll invoke Nightmare’s wrath and Lunar wants peace. So… why… Wait, is Lunar Nightmare?
“Easter, what wore we doing again?” Ink suddenly asked.
I jumped slightly and stated, “We’re doing au revoir.”
“Right, we’ll see you at the signing, Abyss, Lunar” Ink stated.
“Ink, we’ve been over this” Lunar lightly coughed, “I’m not attending the signing.”
“Au revoir” I told them.
“See you soon too, Easter” Lunar replied while standing up again.
Abyss nodded, “Maybe next time things will be less work focused.”
As they left, I noticed that Lunar’s gait was like Nightmare’s but… it’s hard to compare a slime’s gait with a skeleton’s gait. Still… was Lunar Nightmare? Something about all this felt weird to me.
“Now, let’s pull out the fingerpaints and paper and make some art,” Ink told us.
Palette rushed to the art supplies with a loud giggle.

Chapter Text

“Now repeat, how do you do?” Alter stated.
“How do you do?” Palette and I copied.
Alter nodded, “Good, fine weather we’re having today.”
“Fine weather we’re having today” Palette and I again copy.
“Great” Alter nodded, “Now remember, while you be away from the main event, you still need to be on good behavior.”
Ink called out, “Easter, your outfit is ready.”
Getting up, I went over to Ink, “pas jaune.”
“Don’t worry, it’s vert et pêche… oh and some cyan-bleu” Ink told me.
As we walked over to the sewing room, it was indeed a green dress with peach-color flowers and cyan-blue accent. It looks silky and formal with gentle lacing that wouldn’t hold up in a fight. Something about the dress seemed more fitting for a storybook princess than something that I should be wearing.
“I’ll close the door so you can change,” Ink told me, “Let me know if you have any trouble putting it on. Oh, and you can put on socks and shoes now. If the shoes don’t feel right, we can make another pair.”
I nodded, “Okay.”
After getting most of the outfit on, I noticed that I couldn’t reach the buttons in the back. Ug, stupid outfit… Okay, I’ll get Ink’s help.
“Dada, buttons,” I asked as I opened the door.
“Buttons?” Ink saw me turn around, “Right, I can help. So, does everything feel okay?”
I thought before saying, “Easter thinks so.”
Ink finished the buttons, “Okay, time for hair. Do you want a headband or clips?”
“Clips,” I told him.
He pulled out a hairbrush and clips with flowers on them. He was gentle as he styled my hair. It didn’t take long for him to finish and pulled me in front of a mirror.
“Good?” Ink asked me.
I softly touched the clips on each side that were being used to make sure my hair didn’t get in my face. I did a slow twirl to make sure I can move okay. Now, how I look… I looked… adorable. But not cute enough… what do I need.
“Easter cute,” I told Ink.
“Yes,” Ink smiled brightly, “Easter is the most adorable little skeleton in the multiverse.”
I nodded, “Yes but… something missing…”
“Missing?” Ink had a pair of question marks for eye lights, “Dress, socks, shoes…”
“Scarf” I pointed to my neck.
“A scarf? Oh yes, a scarf!” Ink got a pair of exclamation points now, “How about a necklace instead? It’s going to be warm today and even if skeletons are great with temperature differences, I don’t want to risk overheating.”
“Pink feather boa” I folded my arms.
Ink thought for a moment before saying, “I’ll make a thin scarf to wear like a shawl.”
Soon a peach-color almost-transparent scarf was painted into reality by Ink’s broomie. I wore the silky fabric along the back of my neck and let it flow down. Yep, this is what I wanted.
“Now Easter is super cute” I stated.
Ink nodded, “Is cuteness Easter’s magical girl superpower?”
“No” I waved him off and giggled.
“Now…” Ink looked at my hands, “Do you want to try perfume or nail polish?”
“No, too much,” I told him.
Ink nodded, “Okay, do you want anything else?”
I thought it over before saying, “Easter is good like this.”
“Now let’s go over our checklist,” Ink told me while pulling out a notebook, “wake up, check. Make breakfast, check. Baths and teeth brush, check. Alter’s formality lesson, check. Easter dressed, check… Palette dress, Ink dress, snacks, check speech, bring speech, and make sure kids are with Ink.”
“Dada got this,” I told him.
Ink patted my head, “Yes, I got this.”

“Okay, and that’s everything,” Ink told us while tapping freshly printed papers on the table, “Everybody is dressed, and I have the speech and… nothing will go wrong.”
“Oh, Easter needs her charm, right?” I asked as I went to pull it out.
“Charm?” Ink looked confused but said, “Sure, a good luck charm sounds helpful right now.”
“Easter is perfectly ready now” I stated as I put the charm around my neck but hid the charm part under my dress.
While this wasn’t a good luck charm, Nightmare really didn’t want me to get Fatal Error’s attention. Since Nightmare can’t sense me when I wear the charm, then if Fatal Error has some degree of soul sense, that means I’m safe while wearing the charm.
“Okay, Easter, Palette, speech” Ink repeated to himself, “let’s go.”

Stepping onto the grass, I looked around as other skeletons came and gathered at the main seating area. Ink held my hand as he took us to a large tent just a few paces away from the main area. A banner reading “daycare” was hung up as a check-in table was below. Outer was running it as he waved us over with a smile.
“Outer!” I waved and rushed up.
“Easter, I’m so happy to see you,” Outer told me, “Are you excited for today?”
I thought it over before saying, “Comme ci comme ça.”
“So, I’ve packed extra snacks for Easter…” Ink puts a basket on the table, “I hope it’s not too much… but it’s if Easter’s magic starts leaking.”
“Got it, one snack pack for Easter…” Outer wrote down, “be aware if her nose starts leaking magic.”
“Actually, if her nose starts leaking, could you message me? This should be far enough away from the signing that she shouldn’t be affected but… just in case” Ink asked.
Outer nodded and added to the notes.
“Oh, and Easter is attending with her imaginary friend, Palette” Ink told Outer, “You might see her sharing snacks with him.”
“Aw, how cute” Outer commented, “Is that everything?”
Ink thought before whispering something to Outer. Outer nodded as if he knew what Ink said already. Soon the paper was filled out and I was officially checked in. With Palette being unofficially checked in.
“Now have fun at daycare” Ink kissed my forehead, “be good, and don’t sneak off.”
“Easter will be good,” I told him and walked inside the tent.
Inside, different play stations were set up with a few more in the process of being set up by a Toriel. She looked like an original, but I couldn’t be too certain. Walking up to her, she smiled softly.
“Hello, Outer told me about you” Toriel hummed, “Easter, right?”
I nodded.
“I’m Toriel, I’ll be one of the daycare workers today” she explained, “do you want to play or help me set up?”
“Help set up” I responded.
As I helped Toriel, she went on about the schedule they planned for us. I nodded as I noticed that Outer was sitting and watching. Was he tired?
“I’m here to check Goth in” I heard Geno speak at the counter.
Outer nodded, “Yes, Goth. We’ve been expecting you. Is it okay if we fill out a contact form?”
Geno nodded and the two started to fill out the form, but their voices were quieter.
“Easter, what’s wrong?” Palette asked.
I shook my head before saying, “Marshmallow here.”
“Marshmallow?” Palette tilted his head.
“Marshmallow is good,” I told him.
Goth came over with a huge smile, “Easter, it’s been forever… who’s this?”
His single eye light looked to Palette as I wondered if he could see him.
“Palette is Palette, Easter’s imaginary friend and brother” Palette told him, “None of the adults can see me.”
Goth stared for a moment before smiling, “Easter has a brother now?”
“Yes,” I told him.
“Aw, I want a brother or a sister” Goth replied, “I told mama, and he said adopting a Cerberus is more likely for us.”
“What’s a Cerberus?” Palette asked.
Goth stated, “A dog with three heads. Papa said they have immunity to reapings. I got to look at some photos and I like the Corgi-mixed they come in.”
“Corgi… don’t they normally have one head?” Palette asked.
Goth tilted his head, “Do they?”
I shrugged and Palette didn’t seem certain enough to respond.
“Goth, hello” Toriel spoke up, “are you ready for some fun?”
Goth tilted his head, “Life? What are you doing here?”
“No, I’m Toriel, from one of the clones original AUs” Toriel explained to him, “I’m not the Toriel from Reapertale.”
Goth started before saying, “Oh, like how mama and papa are the same skeletons.”
Toriel nodded before asking, “Do you want to try out the building block?”
“Yes” Goth nodded.
Toriel brought us to the blocking building center first. Palette and Goth built a tower together as I watched them interact. I should make mental notes on normal behaviors…

As we played several games, I noticed that no other children were coming. Did Ink really set up a whole daycare for the three of us? I looked to Outer who was now reading a book on soulling care. It looked like they weren’t expecting other kids…
“Easter, are you doing, okay?” Toriel asked.
I nodded, “has signing started?”
Toriel looked at her phone, “They should be in the middle of speeches.”
“So… no other kids?” I asked her.
She nodded, “it seems so.”
I stared for a moment before switching my attention to the game.

“Okay, story time then nap time” Toriel clapped her hands after a while.
“Aw, but I want to play more” Goth stated but yawned.
Toriel picked up a book, “we can play more after we get a nap.”
As Toriel read a story about somebody named “Goldilocks”, I worried about the signing. They wore doing speeches earlier… are they done with that yet? Did they sign? Just how long was this event?
“The end” Toriel stated as she finished the story, “Now it’s time for naps.”
We lay on the sitting pillows as Goth and Palette fell asleep next to each other. I stayed awake as I stared at the white tent. It was a lot like the anti-void…
I slowly turn my skull to see Toriel and Outer starting small talk with each other. Thinking, I wonder if I could sneak out while they talk… no bad idea. If they panicked, it could ruin the signing event and Ink told me not to sneak off. Could I open a window portal?
Waving my hand as I used to as Error, my magic failed to form a portal of any kind. Puffing my cheeks in annoyance, I wondered what else I could do. Maybe I could try making a tv and tune it to Mettaton’s channel? But that camera won’t work the way I want it to.
What if I made an artifact like that paint-blasting wand? It’ll come in two parts. A mobile camera and a window with controls. Yeah, that could work and shouldn’t raise any questions if the camera looked like a common butterfly.
Okay focus… common butterfly camera and remote control with window… I rubbed my skull in hopes of focusing my magic.
Soon, a mechanical butterfly showed up in my hands while being clouded in gold smoke. It is made of gears with long thin cylinders for legs that bend with strings. Wings looked more like sails on ships… no it looked more like paper with scribbles to mimic writing. Eh, if I keep the camera’s distance, I don’t think the skeletons would notice.
As for the remote, it looked like a peach-gold hand mirror. No controls in sight. Maybe if I channel magic through it for commands?
Remembering how I used to communicate before I was born, I sent a gentle magical signal to the mirror with hopefully the fly sequence. The mirror lit up with magic in an elegant pattern as if translating the message.
I felt the butterfly starting to flap its wings as it rose into the air. Haha, now to see what’s going on over at the signing. Wait, I need to turn on the window-mirror…
After a pulse of magic, the screen turns on, and showed myself from the butterfly’s camera. Feeling proud, I sent out a ton of signals to guide it out of the tent and over to where everybody else was. The controls felt slippery, and I had to slow down a bunch of times to avoid crashing.
At the event, I noticed a flaw in this system. I had no volume… not like I wanted to risk attention during my spy attempt. Oh well, I should be able to see how things are going at least.
Ink was speaking at the stand to a sea of skeletons. I spotted Nightmare sitting more towards the back of the stage with Dream on the other side. In the audience, I notice where the gang was sitting as Dust was recording on the phone and Killer trying to flirt with Color. Horror was focused on the food despite being so far away from it.
Seeing movement from the stand, I focus on Ink picking up a pen and signing the paper. Soon he sat down, and Nightmare got up. He didn’t have much to say as he also signed the document and went to sit down. Dream was next to get up and…
“Easter” Toriel whispered as she took the mirror, “It’s nap time.”
I frowned and reached for the mirror.
“Sorry, but I’ll let you have the mirror back after you get a nap” Toriel stated.
I folded my arms and puffed my cheeks. Toriel just patted my head and walked off with the mirror. Deciding it’s not worth fighting her over the mirror, I laid down. If anything does go wrong at this point, it’ll be Dream’s fault.
Closing my sockets, I pretended to sleep. However, my skeleton form betrayed me by dragging me into a real sleep.

“Snacks are ready” Outer calmly told us.
I slowly sat up and yawned largely. Palette and Goth wore quick-to-grab food as I dragged myself over. Looking at a place of cooked rice cubes, I felt like being picky.
“Mustard” Goth mumbled as he chewed, “it needs mustard.”
Looks like he still has Red’s habit.
Picking up the cube, it felt sticky on my fingers. Taking a bite, it didn’t have much flavor and was rough with my tongues. Putting the treat on the plate, I looked for Ink’s basket of goods.
“You don’t like it?” Outer asked as he looked at the single-bite treat.
“Hurts tongues,” I told Outer.
Outer thought for a moment before saying, “Okay, I’ll go see what Ink packed.”
Palette smiled as he picked up the treat, “Palette doesn’t mind eating this.”
Toriel watched with a confused expression as Palette ate. Outer came back with a muffin and handed it to me. He didn’t question the floating treat as he whispered something to Toriel, who calmed down and nodded in response.
“Merci” I said to Outer as I brought the muffin to my mouth.
Taking a bite from the muffin, a delicious dark chocolate taste crumbled over my tongues. Aaahhh, this is the good stuff. This is waaaayyy better than that tasteless rough treat.
“Outer” Color said as he came over, “how’s everything holding up?”
“Great, Toriel is doing most of the work through” Outer replied.
Color nodded to Toriel, “Thanks for that. I was worried that Outer would get overworked… even though Killer was trying to distract me the whole time.”
“No problem, they wore on their best behaviors” Toriel replied.
“Signing all done?” I asked.
Color nodded, “yep, everybody is chatting and eating now.”
I stared for a moment before saying, “Good.”
“Oh, Goth, your parents should be coming by as soon,” Color told him, “It sounds like they are planning on heading back home after they pick you up.”
Goth chews and swallows before saying, “but I want to play more. Also mustard.”
“I’m sorry, but we didn’t pack any mustard,” Toriel told him.
Color turned to Outer, “I need to head back before Nebby decides to sneak over.”
Outer went to kiss Color’s cheek, “Alright, go make sure he’s behaving.”
Color kissed Outer’s cheek back and went back to where the others wore. I started as I wondered how long Ink would take. Stuffing the rest of my muffin into my mouth, I decided not to think about it. After all, the hard part is over with.
“So, after snack, what game should we play?” Toriel asked us.
Goth thought before saying, “I want to play that go fish game. Playing with only papa is boring.”
“Does Geno not play?” I asked him.
Goth shook his head, “He doesn’t like the idea of fishing.”
“Then it’s settled, let’s play go fish once snack is over” Toriel hummed happily.

It wasn’t long before Outer shuffled the cards in his hands. We all sat around a short table as Outer placed five cards in front of most of us, including himself. Picking up my hand, I spotted colorful fish on each card along with a number.
“To keep things simple, we’re matching numbers by pairs of two. Also, we don’t go again if we get the card we’re asking for” Toriel stated, “now, who wants to go first?”
“Wait, Palette needs a hand” Goth pointed.
Outer nodded, “Sorry, I didn’t see him there.”
Soon Palette had a hand of his own.
“Okay, I’ll go first” Goth stated before looking at me, “got any sevens?”
I looked at my hand, “Non.”
“In this game, we say go fish” Toriel corrected.
I nodded, “go fish.”
Goth picked up a card and it was Outer’s turn.
“Okay, Toriel, have any fours?” Outer asked.
Toriel nodded, “here you go.”
Outer put his newly made pair down.
Palette thought before saying, “Goth, got any sevens?”
“How’d you know?” Goth asked before handing him his card.
“Lucky guess” Palette smiled.
Okay… my turn… let’s see…
“Outer, six?” I asked.
“Go fish” Outer replied.
Things went on like this, until Goth…
“Goth, it’s time to go now” Geno called out.
“Aww, but I want to play more” Goth replied.
Geno replied, “It’s nice to see you're having fun, but it’s time to go.”
Goth sighed and went over while waving to us, “Bye-bye.”
“Bye” Palette and I waved.
Outer picked up Goth’s hand so we could continue the game. Though I had to copy what Palette asked the others since he couldn’t keep asking (Goth and) me. After all the cards were paired up and the game was over, I wondered how long before Ink would come by.
“Easter” Ink called as he entered the tent.
“Dada” I replied and went over.
Ink picked me up, “How was daycare?”
“Nous avons eu beaucoup de plaisir” I answered in French before saying, “We played with Goth.”
“You did?” Ink asked, “What games?”
“We… play go fish” I told him.
“Go fish? How do you play that game?” Ink asked me.
I pointed to the cards, “we get a hand and ask others for cards in a circle. If others no have cards, they say “go fish” and we draw a card.”
“Wow, that sounds like a lot of fun” Ink replied, “Now, does Easter want to help dada-père say goodbye to the remaining guests or does she want to play more?”
I processed before asking, “Dream no here?”
“Dream and Cross already left,” Ink told me, “Along with Nightmare… he claimed he needed to do paperwork and Dust went with him saying… saying… something about… er… I forgot.”
“Okay, we help dada with goodbyes,” I told him.
“Oh, Ink before you go” Outer got up, “Easter did have one of the chocolate muffins for snack. She said the rice treats wore too rough on her tongues.”
Ink thought for a moment before patting my head, “Does ma fille dislike food that rubs her tongues the wrong way?”
I nodded, “Oui.”
“Okay, I’ll try to remember,” Ink told me, “Outer, Toriel, thanks for watching Easter, and Palette. It seems like you two can pack up now… right?”
“Yes, sadly only Easter and Goth wore attending today,” Toriel told him, “Outer, I’m perfectly fine with cleaning up everything if you want to go to Color.”
Outer didn’t look happy as he stated, “That’ll be best. Medic did say that I shouldn’t do the heavy lifting and such…”
“Heavy lifting?” I tilted my head.
Outer lightly blushed a blue galaxy color, “Yeah, my bones aren’t used to more normal gravity AUs which means I’m more likely to break a bone if I wore to lift a box full of books.”
Why didn’t that answer feel like the full truth?
“I keep forgetting that gravity has an effect on bone growth” Ink lightly tapped his head, “Do you want to walk over with us?”
“Sure” Outer got up, “Toriel, thanks for all your help today.”
“No problem” Toriel had a smile.

At the main venue, I saw skeletons slowly leaving into various portals. I spotted Killer talking to Color over by a… chocolate fountain. Aw, I want a chocolate fountain.
“Outer, found Color,” I told him and pointed.
Outer nodded, “Thanks Easter, and see you later.”
Outer went over and soon joined the conversation.
“It’s nice seeing Color getting along with Killer so soon into the peace treaty” Ink hummed.
“Yes,” I replied trying not to blurt out that Killer, Color and Outer wore in a relationship for a while.
Ink looked around, “Let’s see… ah over there.”
Ink went over to Red and excitedly talked to him about today. Red slowly shrugged saying he needed to get back to his post before his brother found out and left. Glancing to Ink’s hands, it looked like Red escaped in time as Ink had a cat-ear headband ready to go.
“Aw…” Ink looked disappointed before guiding Palette and me to the next skeleton to say goodbye to.
After a while, I spotted Horror serving himself food. Judging by the crumbs on his face, which wasn’t his first plate… I bet that was his fifth plate.
“You want to go say hi to Horror?” Ink asked me.
I nodded slowly.
“Okay, let’s go” Ink stated and walked over, “Horror, it’s so nice seeing you enjoy the dishes that wore prepared.”
Horror nodded, “It’s good eats.”
“Dada made sure to pick out the best candytale for the job” I told Horror.
“I did?” Ink thought before saying, “Oh yeah, I remember picking out a candytale that didn’t have chemicals in their sweets.”
“Chemicals?” Horror asked.
“Yeah, Easter has a sensitivity, so I tried to factor in other sensitivities” Ink stated, “Also got some of a snowdin dog to double check that the sweets weren’t tampered with.”
Horror looked slightly insulted.
“I didn’t mean to imply…” Ink started before saying in a low voice, “I didn’t want Dream to get any ideas about adding poisons into the sweets that Easter might eat.”
Horror relaxed his shoulders and nodded, “makes sense.”
“But dada brought separate food for Easter to eat” I stated.
“Again, making sure Dream didn’t get any ideas” Ink whispered to me.
“Food is always a serious matter” Horror stated before plopping some into his mouth.
I nodded, “Oui.”
“We should let you enjoy the food now” Ink stated, “besides, we have other monsters to see off.”
Horror nodded, “bye.”
“Bye-bye” I waved and was guided to a different monster by Ink.

After seeing off a ton of skeletons, my bones started to feel tired. Guess I really should have taken that nap earlier instead of playing with magic… Oh, Color, Outer, and Killer are still here and talking to each other.
“Color, Outer” Ink decided to talk to them, “how are things going?”
Color gave a light wave, “good. We wore just talking about um… romance books.”
“Romance books?” Ink tilted his head.
“Yeah, nothing better than a Killer romance” Killer laughed at his own joke.
“Oh, have you read…” Ink started to ask about a book that sounded like it was more about art than monsters falling in love.
“No, haven’t read that one yet” Killer responded, “Sorry, but you don’t seem like the type to enjoy romance books.”
“Oh, I do enjoy reading about romance through art” Ink stated, “I just don’t enjoy romance for myself.”
Killer thought for a moment before asking, “Weird question. How do you feel about dark, neutral, and light falling in love?”
“Sounds like great art” Ink responded.
“Even in real life?” Killer asked.
Ink tilted his head, “As in a member of the gang falling in love with the star sans?”
“No, more like council” Killer corrected.
“Oh” Ink nodded, “I wouldn’t mind that. It’ll help keep the peace treaty in effect. I really really don’t want to risk the treaty breaking apart… not when an accident can…”
“I get it” Killer rubbed his skull, “Nightmare explained what happened. We also don’t want that type of accident to occur again.”
“That’s nice to hear” Ink nodded, “So, does that mean you three are getting along?”
“We’ll answer that at a later date,” Outer told him.
“Ah, okay then” Ink replied before turning to me, “Easter, we have a few more skeletons to talk to than we can go on vacation.”
“Vacation?” Killer asked.
“Yeah, planning this event was tiring” Ink replied, “we’re taking a month away from everything.”
“Stars?” I asked him.
“Yeah, I’ve found a spot with a good view of the sky,” Ink told me.
Sky doesn’t mean stars all the time…
“I think a vacation would do you and Easter good” Color stated, “I’ll make sure the council… and Dream… behave.”
“Thanks, Color,” Ink smiled, “well, see you guys.”
I waved, “have a great time reading.”
“Have a relaxing vacation” Outer waved back.

Once everybody was greeted and said farewell, Ink stated it was time for our vacation. I felt bone tired, and I didn’t want to walk anymore. Looking to Ink, I decided now was a good time to ask for transportation…
“Dada, ups” I said and reached my hands to the sky.
“Ups?” Ink lifted me, “are you tired from saying bye to everybody?”
“Oui” I answered.
“Okay, let’s hurry to our vacation place and see about dinner” Ink smiled.
Palette nodded, "We should eat a lot in celebration!"
"Palette says he wants to eat a skele-ton of food" I told Ink.
Ink snorted, "Don't worry, we'll have a full three-course meal. Entrees, main course, and dessert."

Chapter Text

“Here we go” Ink put me on the dirt path, “Our own personal vacation home.”
It was a two-story stone house on top of a grassy hill with serval flowers growing around it. Looking at the environment, a small cobblestone village was nearby that was filled with humans and monsters. Looking beyond the border for the village, was a strong forest with some breaking-for grass fields… no, flowers grew in those fields.
“Plenty of fresh air, art scenery, and no council to bug us” Ink took a deep breath as he proudly looked at the land.
“Stars?” I pointed up to the sunset-colored sky.
“After dinner and settling in,” Ink told me, “We can use a telescope.”
“First thing first” Palette rushed to the door, “supper.”

A three-course meal later, Ink showed us the rest of the first floor before heading upstairs. Three bedrooms wore up here which meant I had my own room for our stay. Opening my door, a thick quilted blanket covered a tiny bed with the Easter and Palette puppets covering the tall part of the bed frame. A wooden closet was already filled with my clothes. A small basket had some toys in it, and I noticed that cow-cow was among them.
“Let’s get some pajamas on and sit outside,” Ink told us, “It should be dark enough to star gaze now.”
“Stars!” I shouted and slammed the door so I could change.
Putting on warm butterfly pajamas, I rushed out of my room and downstairs. Ink was already at the door with a blanket in his arms. Feeling too excited for the stars, I rushed past him and opened the door.
“Whoa, slow down cowgirl” Ink laughed, “the stars aren’t going anywhere.”
“But the sun makes them go away” I stated as I looked up at the glittering sky.
“No, the stars stay put” Ink corrected, “the sun is just too bright for us to see the tiny lights. That’s also why we don’t use fireworks in the daytime. It’s much easier and enjoyable to see them at night.”
“Firework is sound bomb” I told him.
“Yes, fireworks can be noisy” Ink stated as he laid out the blanket, “but tiny ones only make fizzy fire sounds.”
Fizzy fire?
“Now for the telescope” Ink brushed his hands and went back inside, “Easter, stay on the blanket and don’t wander off. It’s supposed to get dark tonight since it's the new moon.”
New moon? Like… the old moon retires and a new one replaces it? So, it’s a baby moon?
Looking up at the sky, I spotted the star trail along the sky. Outer called it a… Milky Way. Yes, that star path is called the Milky Way. It doesn’t look like milk though… unless that’s how milk looks like in Outertale.
“Sister” Palette giggled as he came out, “how's it out here?”
“Stars” I pointed half in a daze.
“Yep, stars” Palette laid down on the blanket, “they really do sparkle.”
Ink got the telescope out the door and set it up carefully. Palette got up and went to help as I kept staring at the sky. Since Palette helped Ink, he was the first to use the telescope.
“So, Easter, how’s the sky,” Ink asked me.
“The view in Outertale is clearer,” I told him.
Ink sighed, “enjoyable though?”
“Oui” I replied.
“Relaxing?” Ink then asked.
“Beaucoup,” I told him.
Ink’s shoulders lowered as if losing tension. He laid down on the blanket and relaxed like he had just got his first breather in a long-term war. Yeah, we all needed this vacation.
“Dada” I softly spoke, “Merci.”
“De rien ma fille” Ink replied calmly.
My eye sockets slowly felt heavy as my bones relaxed. N-no, I can stay up longer. I can’t have stars all the time, so I need to stay awake. I need to… yawn… stay awake.

I woke up as annoying sounds kept playing on and on. Sitting up and rubbing my sockets, I noticed the unfamiliar room. No wait, this is my vacation room. So that sound is outside? Those wore bird songs, right?
Getting up, I decided to find Ink. Opening my door, the scent of sizzling meat told me where Ink was. Heading down the stairs, I used one hand to hold onto the rail as I used the other to rub my socket.
“Good morning, ma fille” Ink chirped while cooking.
“We weren't ready to sleep” I muttered and went to the dining table.
“Huh? Oh, you wanted to stay up longer to watch the stars?” Ink clarified before continuing, “well we have tonight to watch them more.”
I hummed, “we would like that.”
“So, after breakfast, I would like to go for a hike,” Ink told me, “I plan to bring some art supplies and lunch. What do you think?”
“We can do that,” I told him.
“I know we can” Ink hummed, “but is it something Easter would like?”
I thought before saying, “knowing lay of land is good.”
“That doesn’t answer my question” Ink put a plate in front of me, “but, I’ll take it as a yes.”
Looking at my plate, there was a golden-brown muffin, some bacon, and fried eggs. Looking at the muffin, the edges looked ruffled like a dress and had a sphere on top. Biting into it, it has a warm sweet flavor that crumbled in my mouth.
“How’s the brioche à tête?” Ink asked while gesturing to what I was eating.
“Sweet,” I said and took another bite.
Palette yawned as we also went down the stairs, “breakfast time?”
“Yep, breakfast time” Ink replied as he finishes setting up the last two plates before sitting, “so, how do you feel about a hike?”

“Let's see, 24-hour supplies, art supplies, water, snacks… a tiny shovel… what else?” Ink asked as he looked at our backpacks.
Palette thought before saying, “Map?”
“That’s it, we need a map and compass” Ink stated and added it to the bags.
Ink zipped the bags up and handed them to us. I put it on the bag as I debated about the weight. Palette confidentially headed to the door to get started on the hike.
The hike into the woods was led by Ink as we followed the trail. Tall trees and shrubs almost outline the path we were taking. The dirt path felt dry and loose as my feet shuffled a little. Looking around, this felt better than being trapped in a building that was overcrowded with skeletons. In fact, it seemed quieter here than in my room in the daytime but… I’m not sure how. It’s not like I can hear all the skeletons in the foyer.
“Hear that?” Ink asked as if to disprove my thoughts of quietness, “I hear a brook nearby. Maybe we can find a good painting spot nearby.”
Heading to the shallow stream that I could easily jump across, Ink looked around with interest. He quickly went upstream to where the sound of trickling water turned into more of a light waterfall sound. A short cliff came into view as I saw the smooth rocky side that the water polished. Tiny white flowers grew in this area as the leaves looked like ivy or clover.
Ink raised his hands in a square shape as focused on the scene before us. Soon, he took off his backpack, pulled out a wooden device, and set it up. Soon a canvas was on it, and he soon went to prepare paints.
“Palette, Easter, as long as vous remain nearby vous can go play,” Ink told us, “Of course, I wouldn’t mind if you also wanted to stay and draw.”
Palette put his bag next to Ink and stretched his back, “Palette will look around. What about you sister?”
Looking around, it felt like I could easily get lost. If I wore it to get lost… This is a vacation not an excuse to cause anxiety. Besides, I felt tired from hiking all this way. I shouldn’t overdo it.
“Draw,” I told Palette and found a good spot to sit down.
Palette nodded and started to explore. Ink soon got started on his painting by coating the canvas in colors that smoosh together. Pulling out my own drawing book, I tried to mimic what Ink would do with just a pencil. N-not like I’m mimicking because I like him… just… not sure what else to do with the book.
“Doesn’t it smell great out here?” Ink asked, “it’s too bad I can’t paint smells… unless I get creative with how paints can be made.”
“Air clean,” I told him, “Earthy, and… not stuffy.”
“Yep, the perfect getaway” Ink hummed proudly.
Isn’t it a bit early to call it the perfect getaway?
“So, does Easter want to do anything special tomorrow?” Ink asked as he continued to paint.
Feeling the tired sensation of hiking in my bones, I answered, “Training.”
“What kind of training?” Ink asked, “paint, drawing, clay?”
“No, exercise training,” I told him.
“Like… a jog?” Ink mumbled before saying, “It’s been a while since I’ve properly stretched my bones, which sounds like a great idea.”
“We will get strong bones and endurance” I proclaimed.
Ink laughed, “You make it sound like the hike was hard or something.”
“Well, we don’t get out a lot,” I told him.
“Oh” Ink realized, “Ohhh… Do you want me to carry your stuff when we head back?”
“No, it’s training,” I told him.
Ink smiled, “Okay, but let me know if it’s too much. All right?”
“Oui,” I told him.
Palette came back with a skip in his step, “Finished exploring, I’m ready to draw now.”
“Welcome back,” Ink told him, “How do you feel about a training exercise tomorrow?”
Palette thought as he picked up his bag, “Can Palette explore town instead? Meet the village kids?”
Ink nodded, “Okay but don’t use your invisibility skill. Easter, it sounds like it’ll just be the two of us.”
Palette pulled out his drawing book, “Got it.”
Soon the three of us turned quiet as we worked. Ink brought out serval paintbrushes to add distinct types of shapes and details on top of the coat of paint. Palette was drawing in his book, as was I. This… felt nice. Not having to worry about anything and scribble on paper.

After Ink finished his painting, he let it dry while he set up a blanket for eating lunch on. Heading over, I looked at the sandwiches Ink made. Sadly, I didn’t see anything chocolate in this spread for lunch.
“Easter, can I see what you drew?” Ink asked as he set things up.
I nodded and handed him the drawing book. He turned to the paged and his eye lights changed a few times as he looked at it. Was it bad?
“Aw, this is adorable” Ink hummed, “Can you explain the process?”
“Mimic dada,” I told him.
“You were mimicking me? I’m honored” Ink patted my head, “you know, a lot of artists learn by mimicking others.”
He’s happy? Over scribbles? Oh yeah, he’s always happy whenever I do anything remotely arty.
“My turn, my turn” Palette excitedly handed his drawing book to Ink.
“This looks amazing, and what was your process?” Ink asked while looking at the book.
Palette thought before saying, “squiggle shapes.”
Ink tried not to laugh, “They’re great squiggle shapes.”

Chapter Text

The day started with a hot breakfast and Palette rushing off to find friends. Ink gave me a new outfit to wear as he called them “gym clothes”. It was a casual T-shirt and basketball shorts. Something about this felt like what every Sans wore… minus the jacket.
“Ready for special training,” I told Ink.
He nodded, “Now the first key to training is stretching. Let’s make sure that all our joints are nice and loose with some yoga, okay?”
“Yoga for special training” I agreed.
“Right, now let’s take a deep breath and…” Ink started before reaching his arms straight up, “stretch.”
After a few poses, Ink moved to a new pose that looked like… that twisted-up bread… what was that bread called? Um… pre… pret… Dust brought them home once after seeing a human sport with Blueberry.
“Pain” I stated as I could only remember the French word for bread.
“Oh sorry,” Ink slowly returned to a normal sitting position, “That was advance, you don’t have to hurt yourself. Wait, did you say pain or pan?”
I answered with “bread-pain.”
“Snack?” Ink asked before remembering, “Oh, you're looking for pretzel-bretzel. I looked like a skeleton bretzel, didn’t I?”
I nodded, “good for dodging?”
“Yep, I used to dodge a lot of things by using yoga… not as much anymore” Ink looked like he was forgetting something but stated, “I guess that’s a good thing.”
That explains how he dodges all of my, Error’s, Gaster blaster attacks. It was too hard to see him from that distance and that blob of brown and white always moves to the side and out of the way… even if it’s just by a thread.
“Jog time?” I asked as I looked at the door.
“Yes, let’s take a nice jog through the village and see if Palette made any friends,” Ink told me as he got up.
I got up and followed him outside. Soon Ink started a slow jog as I ran behind him. Ink slowed down a bit more and ran alongside me. He soon started a monologue about the best running practices and breathing levels.
Once we passed the main threshold to the village, I slowed down and held Ink’s hand nervously. A lot of unfamiliar folks were walking around, and I didn’t know if they were friendly or not. At least none of them wore skeletons…
“Oh look, freshly baked bread” Ink pointed, “didn’t you ask for bread earlier?”
“Non, bretzel” I replied.
“Right, you wanted a bretzel” Ink went over, “Why don’t we see if they have any?”
The baker smiled at us as her rabbit ears perked up, “Howdy, are you the folks that just moved onto that there hill?”
“Not quite, it’s just our vacation house” Ink corrected.
“Aw, I see” the baker seemed slightly disappointed but replied, “Today we have some freshly baked sourdough.”
Sourdough? Was it filled with lemons?
“Another time, we’re looking for… um… croissants, yes that’s what we wanted” Ink incorrectly remembers again.
“Got it, how many?” The baker asked while pulling out a bag.
“Three” Ink replied, “and no need for the bag, we’ll be eating them pretty soon.”
The baker nodded and prepared them, “Three cross ants, that’ll be 75 Gs.”
Ink paid her and handed me one of the croissants.
“Merci” I told Ink before taking a small bite.
The baker’s expression slightly changed, “You wouldn’t happen to be related to that strange skeleton that’s been hangin’ around the farmer in the next village over, would you?”
I shook my head, “Non.”
“I see… well, have a happy vacation in our village, sirs” the baker lighter bow her head.
“Wait, actually-“ Ink started with objection but turned to me as if he weren’t sure if he should raise it.
I tilted my head as I wondered what this was about.
“Never mind, later” Ink replied, and we soon left.
I chewed on my snack as we walked through the village. Ink seemed perplexed over something as he didn’t seem to be looking for Palette right now. Did the baker say something weird?
“So, Easter, I just noticed something” Ink started as we walked, “while um… Medic said you wore a girl way back when um… do you… see yourself as a girl?”
See myself as a girl? Um… I guess I did start referring to myself as a girl. But what does it mean to be a girl or a boy in the first place? Sure, all my past reincarnations before Easter wore male but…
“Dada, remember when Dr. Toriel said we should ask questions?” I started rhetorically before asking, “What is gender? Like… Undyne and Alphys are female, and Papyrus and Asgore are male. We know which pronouns to use but… what is there beyond that?”
“Gender is… your feelings and knowing yourself” Ink tried to explain, “as monsters grow up, their feelings and understanding of themselves can change. There is a whole spectrum, or rainbow, for gender and everybody understands and feels it differently. Like demigirl, genderfluid, non-binary, agender, and so on. I think Alter has a better grasp on the terms if you want to walk through things with him.”
“Wait, what about the pronouns everybody uses on me now?” I asked him.
“Alter can explain it in detail but think of it as a placeholder,” Ink told me, "All because we use feminine pronouns right now, doesn't mean you are necessarily female."
I stared at him for a bit before saying, “so, how did dada feel and know himself?”
Ink thought for a moment before saying, “Guess it doesn’t come up often, but I’m demiboy. I feel male but muted… Though that’s not the only way to be demiboy. For me, it sort of… always been that way? I can’t really remember when I first knew who I was.”
“So… it’s okay if I don’t always feel like a girl?” I asked him, “Sometimes… I feel like a boy.”
“Yes, that’s perfectly okay,” Ink told me, “In fact, what you are describing is covered by genderfluid. It means that gender identity varies and/or changes over time.”
I respond with uncertainty, “No, it’s more… situational? Like I feel differently when being seen or when sleeping.”
Ink looked perplexed for a second before saying, “Oh yes, mutogender. It’s under the genderfluid umbrella and it’s where gender identity changes depending on the situation. Such as being near or around a person(s), place, thing, idea, current weather or temperature, and so on. I believe there are a lot of terms within the mutogender umbrella for more specifics on the situation.”
"Umbrella?" I asked.
Ink answered, "it's to identify multiple genders in a group. For example, genderfluid and demiboy fit under the non-binary umbrella. Think of it as a horse umbrella with the specific horse standing under it. Oh, and the horse umbrella is under the mammal umbrella."
I process the info dump for a moment before saying, “Can dada ask Alter for help on mutogender umbrella?”
Ink wrote on his scarf, “Got it.”
“Also… don’t speak of this to the council, Dream or Cross,” I told Ink, “I’ll get confused and paranoid if they refer to me as a boy.”
Like if they are trying to allude to my past life as Error.
“Did they say something scary or anything?” Ink asked.
I shook my head, “non, it’s… why I go quiet, basically…”
“Okay but do let me know if they make you feel uncomfortable,” Ink told me.
“Oh, but if things… work out, we can tell Color,” I told him.
Ink nodded, “we can have a gender reveal party if you want.”
Gender reveal party? It sounds like gender is a bigger deal than I initially thought… I’m going to need a lot of time to think about this. Why didn’t Nightmare tell me any of this?
“In the meantime, does Easter want to be gender-creative while we’re on vacation?” Ink asked, “We can pick out a male or unisex name and try out lots of different types of clothes.”
“Time to think first,” I told him, “And… could dada come up with name? That way I have non-Dream given name but still a parent-given name.”
Ink eye lights turn to bright yellow and orange in pure excitement, “Of course, I’ll think of the perfect creative name for ma fille, or fils… or whatever offspring title we end up having.”
“Keep fille, no matter what” I firmly told him, “It sounds like a baby stab horse. I like being dada’s fille.”
Suddenly ink covered the ground as Ink vomited. I froze in place seeing the sudden reaction from Ink. W-what did I say?
“Sorry, I got too excited there” Ink patted my head, “those words made me incredibly happy. Thank you, Easter.”
Huh? What words? About being dada’s fille? Wait, did I… say that? I felt my marrow rushing to my cheeks in embarrassment.
Ink hummed, “with that out of the way, let’s keep going… after I clean my mess.”
Like how Ink cleaned up my mess with the artifact paint splatter I made, the liquid quickly gathered before vanishing in the clasp of his hand. Then we kept heading down the road. It wasn’t long before we spotted Palette, who was already eating something with a group of village kids.
“Looks like Palette is fitting in,” Ink told me, “Let’s not interrupt his fun.”
Ink started to jog, like what we’re supposed to be doing, so I matched his pace. Up ahead, there was a hand-drawn cart pulled to the side of the row. Two skeletons are discussed next to a wheel and I recognize one of them. Horror.
“Hello” Ink greeted them, “Oh, Horror fancy seeing you… here… of all places.”
Horror looked at Ink a bit nervously while tugging on the other skeleton’s sleeve.
“Howdy Ink” the second skeleton, a Farmer Sans, spoke, “Horror was helping with my deliveries, but this cobblestone road was too much for our wheel.”
“I see” Ink went over to look at it, “I should be able to make a new one, all I need is…” he reached for his back, “head back to our cottage for my paintbrush.”
“How far?” Horror asked.
“Just right up on that hill” Ink pointed, “oh, and don’t tell anybody. That’s our private vacation home.”
“We won’t tell a soul,” Farmer told Ink, “Right, Horror?”
Horror nodded, “yeah, won’t tell.”
“Easter, I’ll be right back” Ink picks me up and sat me on a cobblestone wall, and handed me the final croissant, “keep them company, okay?”
“Okay,” I nodded.
Ink ran back far faster than the pace we wore made earlier.
“So, Farmer and Horror know each other?” I asked when Ink was far enough away.
Farmer nodded and rubbed Horror’s skull close to the broken opening, “Yeah, this bloodhound showed up and asked to eat our rat infestation problem away.”
“Food” Horror let out an unfamiliar purr from Farmer’s head rub.
“He’s been helping out with my chores since then,” Farmer told me, “In exchange for food of course.”
“Is that where the food you brought to Outer’s house came from?” I asked.
Horror nodded, “food, share. No one goes hungry.”
“So, sounds like you're staying in this AU?” Farmer asked, “do you enjoy the casual side of the countryside?”
“Yes. Dada took us for a hike, and we did art near the waterfall” I told them, “We also see stars at night. We love stars. Things are quiet here compared to home… council is very loud.”
“Eating good food?” Horror asked.
“We eat lots of food” while remembering the final snack in my hands, “Oh, Palette was eating a different snack. Do Horror and Farmer wish to share? We picked up at baker just over there.”
Horror picked the croissant up and sniffed it. Soon he broke it in half and handed it to Farmer. Farmer took a bite and nodded to say it was good.
“Merci” Horor replied before taking a hungry bite.
“De rien” I smiled happily.
Horror looked a bit surprised and asked, “parleys-tu français?”
Wait, Horror is asking if I speak French. Guess we never talked about it before.
“Oui” I replied, “père m'a appris.”
Horror rubbed his skull, “Ink parle français…”
I spoke in English, “Dada speaks French and taught me French. But I first learn… that one song… Alouette, from Uncle Taco. He sang is when I was very small.”
“He did?” Horror looked slightly upset but didn't say more on the matter.
“I’m back” Ink called out with his brush, “Now to… make a new wheel.”
It wasn’t long before Ink finished his replacement and attached it to the cart with the help of heavy-lifting Horror. Farmer gave his thanks and handed Ink a bag of potatoes. Soon, Horror picked up the handles of the cart and went down the village path with ease.
“Looks like we’re eating baked potatoes for supper” Ink commented while making a portal of paint to deliver the potatoes to the house, “Does Easter want to keep jogging?”
“Yes, I want to run,” I told him.
“Oh, didn’t I give you something when I went off to get my broomie?” Ink asked with confusion.
“Easter gave to Horror and Farmer to share,” I told him, “Horror told me merci, like what we do.”
“He did? Do you think Horror is a gentle giant?” Ink asked me.
I thought for a moment before saying, “Like a really big stab horse.”
Ink laughed, “It’s nice to see his soft side, isn’t it?”
I nodded, “Very much.”
“It’s nice seeing Farmer take advantage of the truce” Ink hummed.
No, Horror has been visiting longer than that.
“Truce is the best thing in multi-history” I giggled.