Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

She just wrapped up and interview that she didn’t feel she landed, but at least she tried. Still dressed in her business outfit, she decided to go the local coffee shop to relax a little and celebrate the little victory of at least getting an interview done. Standing at 5’9’ in her suit, polished up and neat hair, she looked every bit the part of a CEO. However it was all just a farce after all. She had a lot of experience on professionalism and customer service, even a few mild intimidation tactics she used in areas she wasn’t familiar with, but the truth was that for the most part, it was all just an act. One she knew all too well. Alicia had chosen to start off on a whole new clean slate as they say, where she would just leave home for a temporary time in the hopes of trying her luck in the big city. Never had she seen so many different types of monsters before and kept her sunglasses on outside so it wasn’t obvious she was staring. Not that she had a lot of room to talk. If her olive skin didn’t get enough sun, she would start turning green. In her small home town, not many, if any, monsters really lived there mostly they were just passing by on their way to work or visits.
While she sipped her iced coffee, Alicia skimmed through articles on her phone about cheap rent she might be able to afford instead of living in her car and using the gym facilities. One in particular really caught her attention, though the deal seemed too good to be true.
At the bottom, the person of contact was a lady named Jada Waterslane.
Interesting. Alicia once had a high school friend by that name. She wondered if it really was the same person or just really ironic.
May as well call.

“Hello?”
“Yes good morning. Is this Miss Jada?”
“Why yes it is.”
I saw your ad here for a roommate. Is that still available?”
“Wow that was fast! I only just put that up a few days ago. Yes it is.”
“Wonderful. I just had a few extra questions if you please.”
“Of course! Actually we can meet up. You know the little dinner off the corner of Rune Street? Say around twelve?”
“Oh that’s perfect.”
“Great! And who am I speaking to?”
“Alicia.”
“Alright see you tomorrow! Miss Alicia!”
“See you then. Miss Jada.”

Welp, another interview, another day. Hopefully this wouldn’t be some kind of shady deal or screaming children they don’t mention. Tapping in the location of the diner in the GPS and setting the alarm, she took a little time to do some more job searching while she had the free Wifi. Then it just dilly dallying around until finding a 24 hour store to sleep in that parking lot in her mini SUV. Not a very fun life but this was all temporary anyway.

In the morning, she dressed back in her interview clothes, drove to the diner at one of their outside tables, and played on her phone until it was five minutes before the meeting time. A lady pulled up in a nice car and stepped out. She looked just like Jada from high school.
Also going by her reaction when seeing her, it was confirmed. Recognition lit up on her face and she broke into a big smile as she approached. “Alicia Cloudrider? Oh thank God! I was worried it might be some weirdo for a hot minute there!” She exclaimed with her arms out for a hug. Alicia instinctively stood up and returned the hug. “Jada Waterslane. It’s good to see you!”
“Oh! Man it’s been way too long! You gotta tell me what you’ve been up to, but first things first. The ad. So it’s an ‘attic’ room that we just recently renovated into another apartment. It’s got windows and a patio. Hardwood floors your own bathroom just outside of it. And there are other roommates living there but they’re all monsters. Kinda why I’ve been looking for another roommate that is human preferably haha. Is that going to be okay with you?”
“Sure. I don’t have a problem with monsters.” Alicia assured.
“Great! It’s about a thirty minute drive from here kind of in the country some. What’s your number? I’ll text you the address and you can come check the place out. I’ll meet you there after my errands. Oh it’s going to be great having another gal to hang out there too.” Jada expressed happily.
The two spent short while catching up after that. Alicia learned that Jada had moved in with the monsters, all skeletons, soon after the pandemic hit. She had a good full time job and life was good on her end. Jada learned that Alicia had gotten laid off due to the pandemic, struggled to find a good job, had a few short ones that didn’t work out and decided to try her luck here for a while. Then it was time for her to go, so Alicia hit some of the dollar stores and nearby food marts to by some long lasting munchies and things before it was time to go to the possibly new home.
Yes the place really was in the country. The long, winding road passed by that picturesque country living houses with lush yards, some even gated. Rich country living this was.
Further don the road she had finally reached the house and gaped at it’s size. The place was huge like she pulled up to the Buckingham palace!
Okay maybe that was an over-exaggeration on her part. There was a four car garage at the side of the house with an extended port at the side of it, no doubt for guests and that’s where she parked her car. Checking over herself once more to make sure she looked presentable, hair neat, deodorant on, clothes not too wrinkled, CHECK!
The door was answered by Jada with her big bright smile.
“Geeze. When you said big house, I didn’t think you meant a castle I could get lost in.” Alicia joked.
Jada snickered softly at it as she lead her inside. “It’s a lot easier to navigate than it looks.” She assured her. There was the foyer and a large office space. Across was a living room. Down the hallway, the first bathroom a utility room and the large kitchen. Adjacent from the kitchen where they could hear the TV, was an even bigger living room where four of the skeleton monsters were. Simultaneously, eight eye lights were suddenly on them, or more her specifically. Alicia stood up taller and straighter, a friendly and confident smile on her face as she greeted them in the same manner like going in for another interview.
“Everyone, this is Alicia I mentioned earlier. Alicia, these are my boyfriends!” Jada grinned excitedly.
“Boy..friends?” Alicia parroted in surprise. This earned her some muted sneers from some of the skeletons.
“So, from left to right, Russ, Red, Stretch, and Sans. Papyrus is in the backyard. Razz, Edge, and Blue are still at work today.”
“Hello. It’s nice to meet you all.” Alicia smiled to them, but the sentiment wasn’t returned so well.
Russ, had a very passive look that seemed like his face was just frozen that way. Red had a leery scowl that had him looking like some grumpy hedgehog with his ruffled fur hood.
Stretch had a more suspicious and contemplative look on him and his orange hoodie did not counteract that cold look. Sans had an easygoing smile on his face, at least he didn’t look too bothered.

“Well, come on this way. I’ll show you the room.” Jada ushered and Alicia followed suit. Up two flights of stairs they went to finally seeing the attic room with the door open and it missing it handle. “Uh. I didn’t realize it was still missing that. I’ll ask Sans about it. But here we are.”
The apartment very much was a large spacious place, lots of natural lighting. Only a nightstand with a lamp and a dresser really furnished the place, but it was perfect already. “This is even better than I expected.” Alicia admired.
“Cool! So you don’t have to pay rent this month sine it’s like half over already anyway. You can decorate it how you like too. You’ve got your own bathroom down the hall a little bit too. I’ve got to go see Papyrus right now though.” Jada said. “I’ll leave you to get settled in!” She said spinning on her heels back down the stairs.

The place already looked spic and span clean so at last she didn’t have to worry about that part. Promptly she went back down the stairs to her car and took out first her Japanese floor futon. It came in real handy as a makeshift bed in her car. She was able to pull the car up front to the house to unload better. Glancing once at the guys in the living room when she passed them, she half expected them to offer to help, smiling politely to Stretch that side glanced her. Not that she had much stuff yet but the sentiment was still appreciated. None of them said a word though. Alicia went up stairs, settled her bed in place and went back down for the second trip. On her way up she glanced once again at the guys in the living room, finally catching the eye lights of Red and Russ.
“Tch. Don’t look at us like we’re s’posed ta help ya!” He snapped.
Alicia quickly averted hr eyes back to the stairs then. “Grouchy ass hedgehog.” She muttered to herself as she reached the room. One last trip of a last few things and she put her car back.
She saw out one of the back windows, Jada standing before another tall skeleton. ‘That must be Papyrus.’
Alicia went out there, and the two regarded her with smiles as she approached.
“Hey Alicia. This is Papyrus.”
Alicia looked back up at his bright face. “Hello Papyrus. Good to meet you.” she offered her hand to shake.
“It Is Nice To Meet You New Human.” Papyrus grinned down at her as he hesitantly took her hand before giving a quick shake. “I Hope You Found Everything To Your Liking?” he asked with a subtle tone in his voice as if he was trying to earn her approval.
“The house is beautiful and stunning.” Alicia assured him. “Better than I ever imagined.”

Stretch’s POV

Normally Stretch was not he kind of guy to pre-judge too fast despite his previous occupation. However, when he did have all the proof he needed, it wasn’t as easy to redeem oneself in his eye lights. They already got a little bit of a head’s up from Jada, and seeing how confident the other human walked and dressed, like she already owned the place as her own. Not to mention the audacity to act like they were obligated to help her. That already had his bones rattling. He was not a fan of the arrogant type.
Humans. Like drawing straws with your eyes covered, you never know who someone really was on the first meeting unless of course, you could CHECK them. Jada however had them all promise that they would not do that, saying it would activate a magic alert the other human kept on her and things could get ugly. Stretch greatly wanted to deny that, the idea of not CHECKing anyone in his own house! However Jada made him promise too, which put everyone here in a dour mood. None of the four Monsers her liked making promises, but they sure knew how to keep them.
And Jada, sometimes had a bigger heart than she could handle. Inviting her here just because they went to school together years ago. People change, for better or for worse each year, but Stretch would give the benefit of the doubt this time too like he always did. He hoped it was worth it.

Sans’s POV

Staying in the lab all day or night was an easy thing for Sans to do, especially when he got lost in his work at trying new algorithms, testing theories, formulas, and doing all kinds of little tweaks on the machines he worked with. Was it hard? Yes. Was it fruitless? No. This house would prove it along with a new Underground of monsters being ‘released’ to the surface. He made the mistake (by Papyrus’s account) of staying up all night again to work. He wouldn’t say that he regretted the other monsters he brought, even though it wasn’t intentional. Now with Stretch, Red and Russ, he had their help in working on these things, though none of them were really here without Sans also being present most of the time. It just, never felt like he was even a step closer to what his personal goal was.
Stretch, when he first arrived with Blue, managed to bring along the rest of his Underground, as did Russ and reluctantly Red when they took the precautions to make sure both his and Russ’s Underground wouldn’t start a new war.
Sans however, was still stuck in his square one. He looked at the time, 6:11pm Sounds like it was time for a ketchup break. He slid off his lab coat after letting out a long sigh. Hanging it on the hook by the door and stepping out, locking it behind him, he rubbed his face like trying to wipe away any clues of stress or over-working or worse…
shuffling his way to the kitchen, the sound of dishes being done in the sink or the lingering smell of left over diner sitting on the counter. “Evenin’ bro. Whatcha dishin’ up today?” he greeted as he saw Papyrus doing dishes. Razz was sitting by the kitchen table pouring over some articles or news he liked to watch on his tablet.
“Ack!” Papyrus jumped some. “Sans. I was having a perfectly quite morning. Don’t ruin it with your puns.” he cast over his shoulder.
“Yeah yer right bro, I just came to see what the condiments you’re havin’ here with Razz about.”
“That was even worse. Stop talking.” Papyrus pouts. “And eat something else besides just ketchup for dinner.”
“Sure bro. I’ll get the scoop on things myself.” Sans said as he scooped some potatoes on his plate slowly in front of Papyrus with a stretched grin. Papyrs scoffed, rolling his eyes and returning to his dishes.
Sans went to the table, not forgetting his ketchup of course, and sat down casually. He noticed Razz eyeing him skeptically. “Something eatin’ ya?”
Razz’s sockets merely squinted in disgust at the puns before he answered. “You look as if you stayed up all night again.” he said in a lowered manner.
Sans made a lazy shrug. “Eh. Couldn’t stay asleep for long so I decided to go against my better nature and get a little work done.”
Razz gave a deadpanned look, knowing that there was more to that reasoning than what was said, but also knowing that it was pointless to try prying it out of him right now. Sans went back to enjoying his meal and washing it down with his favorite condiment.
Half way through his meal, out of his peripheral, he caught unfamiliar movement that nearly had him startle out of his chair. Oh right...they had a new room mate.
There she stood, quietly walking into the kitchen surveying it and anyone who made eye contact with her, she was quick to smile back in greeting. “Good evening sir. How’s your day?”
Razz snorted in reply. “What are you my wife? Keep dreaming.”
Her eyes darted to Sans and she smiled to him. “Hello Sans. How are you?”
“Fine.” Sans said curtly eyeing her skeptically. He saw subtle changes in her body movements or facial features that she was withering some under the rude and short answers. Until she saw Papyrus and greeted him in the same politeness. Papyrus had the good graces to smile back and return the gesture. She brightened back up then. Sans continued to watch her closely as she talked. “Your meal was wonderful Papyrus. Thank you for cooking.”
Papyrus in turn now also brightened up at the compliments, stepping aside to let her add her dirty dishes to the diminishing pile.
“A good evening to you.” Alicia said as she quickly left the kitchen back to the stairs. Sans heaved another small sigh. It actually was a good evening till she showed up and reminded him of what Jada mentioned yesterday. Installing the lock.
He finished up his meal, putting the half empty ketchup aside till he came back and went to the utility closet where most of the tools were. There inside he also put the doorknob. Humming a little to himself till he go to the attic room, he saw that the door was half open.
“Knock Knock.” He called out. And habitually tapped on the door.
Alicia, who was sitting on the edge of her...floor futon...with a notebook, looked up at him. “Hey Sans- er who’s there?”
“Ivor.”
“Ivor who?”
“Ivor-got to install this handle.” Sans knelt by the door to start the easy installation as he heard Alicia make a dry laugh sound.
“Would you like any help?” She also offered.
“Nah. I got it. Gives me the chance to talk to ya about some rules we have.” Sans said. “You like rules right?”
“Uh sure.”
“First off, I know you and Jada go way back, but you should know that don’t mean I trust ya. So first and easiest rule, be nice. Second, no pets, not even a fish. Third, no other guests at this house and fourth don’t be in the kitchen by yerself. If things aren’t back in a specific way, drama gets spilled by whoever’s cooking and you’ll be the first that comes to mind.”
Sans stood up then when he finished the door knob. “Should any of these rules be broken for any reason,” his eye light went out as he stared at her with a tense smile. “ Y o u’ r e g o n n a h a v e a b a d t I m e.”
To his disappointment, she didn’t flinch or cower from his menacing warning. She just looked at him like he was the weirdest thing she ever saw. Like he was the freak. He huffed some, taking the keys and tossing it at her, now getting a little satisfaction at seeing her flail for them for a second. “Welp. Enjoy yer stay.” He said spinning on his heels back downstairs.
His odd rules did at least present some major concerns. No animal cruelty, no one night stands, no using the knives as any kind of weapon, and hopefully good behavior.
He would be relying on his own instincts and intellect to keep an eye on this human too. Just like he always did since coming to the surface.

Chapter Text

The first night, Alicia didn’t even hope to get much sleep. All being in a whole new environment and all was sometimes hard for her body to relax. She spent the second day, moving in a few more things and situating her living space. Clothes in the closet, floor pillow, and small table that served as her desk as well. Memorizing the floor plan of the first floor and for her own peace of mind, cleaned the bathroom by her room too. She wanted to make sure Clorox was so potent they could smell it from the second floor staircase.
Last night, she was comfortable enough to get better sleep. Hence she work up today a little after six. She knew there was no point in trying to force herself to go back to sleep now. Up Alicia got, doing some simplestretches to get her body warmed up and maybe if she was lucky, they had coffee in this house. Doning on some comfortable clothes and fixing her hair, she used some mouth wash to freshen up a bit and tip toe her way downstairs. The smell of cooked food had her smiling to herself. Curiously she peeked into the kitchen. In there were three of the room mates. A tall and meaner looking guy cooking, the shorter sassy guy from yesterday sipping some coffee, and another short one with a large blue bandanna tied around his neck.
“Good morning.” Alicia said in a soft and meek voice. All three looked her way with three different expressions, annoyance, shock, and another frown.
“Oh. You Must Be The New Human That Papyrus Mentioned.” The blue buddy said.
“I am. Alicia, nice to meet you.”
“I am The Magnificant Blue. “ He smiled a little more as he introduced himself. “ Erm, I Did Not Know You Were An Early Riser Too?”
“It Happens On Occasion.” Alicia said with a small shrug as she walked in. Looking back at the other guy at the table, sh ehoped he was in a better mood. “I never caught your name sir?”
Razz’s large eyelights flicked up to her. “I am called the maleficent Razz.” He answered.
“Good to meet you. And you sir?” Alicia asked the other tall guy who whirled on her with a way-too-intense scowl. “I am The Great and Terrible Edge and you would do well to stay out of my way and do not dare think of slacking off on pullng your own weight around here!”
Alicia blinked at the off-putting, animated warning. “Certainly not.” she said and glanced at the bacon he was putting on a huge platter. He narrowed his sockets at her suspiciously. “Your food smells tantalizing and masterfully crafted.”
“Of course it is! I am a master chef after all.” Edge grinned and turned away. Alicia half expected that compliments may be the best way to say ‘please’ to him. He didn’t say anything more when she made her a plate of breakfast and went to the table to the other two. She graced her food and chewed the first bite slowly to savor the flavor.
Looking back at the other two, she noticed Blue looked ather tense and Razz looked like he was just plain ignoring her. “You have work today?” She put the question out there.
“Y-Yes, Human Alicia. I’m Afraid I May Be Gone Most Of The Day. Oh Speaking Of, I Should Get Going!” Blue jolted to his feet, putting his dirty dishes away and bolting for the door. Not thinking of what else to say until he was gone, Alicia just watched the guy scamper quickly away. Alicia pursed her lips, wondering why he bolted after she was just trying to have friendly conversation. Maybe he didn’t like talking to new people this early? Or he didn’t actually want to talk to her for some reason? Did she scare him?
When she ate, she made sure to clean her own dishes, else Edge come breathing his fire down her back, and make a cup of coffee for herself. Razz had wordlessly got up to go to work no doubt as well. His heels clicking as he walked like a soldier out the front door too. Son after, the rest of the house started waking up and showing up in the kitchen, groggy or wide awake.
Russ was the first. Only sparing a glance at her before going to eat.
Then in came Stretch, sauntering in with a ‘sleepy old man’ look on his face. She almost laughed too loud, but she managed to keep it to a snicker. It still had him raising a brow at her.
“Good morning.” She greeted.
“Hm...yeah...morning it is.” He said in a way that implied he didn’t really pay attention to what the time was.
Red was next. Alicia didn’t even bother talking to him, just a simple nod when he looked at her.
Papyrus in all his energetic, smiling glory, comes traipsing in with a tune on his ‘lips’. His very presence seemed to light up the whole room wherever he went.
Alicia tried not to make it too bvious of how she was watching everyone.
Edge put a plate of waffles aside for Red, growling at him to eat every bite or he does the dishes. Red made a big sleepy smile up at him with a ‘you got it boss’ rumble. It was almost like Edge was trying to hide it that he actually liked to cook for his brother and the house.
‘that must be what they call Tsundere.’
Russ sat at the table, quietly consuming his meal. It reminded her of her own lack of social life. At this point, Alicia had no friends since they all moved or joined the military. She wasn’t a party girl or bar hopper, and of course no job made it harder. It started to realy bum her out that she was so lonely and she wonderd if Russ was in the same boat or if he was just a really reserved guy. Stretch, looked like he was finally waking up, or at least moving faster. He had also grabbed a bottle of honey from the pantry, unscrewing the lid to drink some of it.
Holy smokes, Alicia would LOVE to just drink honey like that! Heh but humans had different rules to live by.
The guys weren’t all too talkative for the most part until Jada had finally walked in, dressed and freshened up. She waltzed in, upbeat attitude as she came in. Everyone smiled at her like a celebraty just walked in. Jada hugged Papyrus and she leane down to peck a kiss on Stretch’s cheek. Her eyes met Alicia and she smiled as sshe straightened. “Hey Alicia. Slept okay?”
“I did thank you. How about yourself?” Alicia answered.
“Like a baby with thei teddy bear.” Jada replied, as if on qeue, Sans came walking in behind her.
It was then Alicia was reminded of her relationship with the monsters here. Or maybe it wasn’t all that weird, just puppy love to everyone.
Papyrus served her a plate of breakfast ass he sat down. He and Edge ha the kitchen cleaned up and the food entirely gone from all the hungry people in the room.
“Do you have to wrk today?” Papyrus asked her.
“Yep, I close today.” Jada answered as she ate.
“Would You Like Me To Pick Up Your Grocery List Then? I Also Have To Go Into Town.” Papyrus offered.
“Another bottle of honey and barbeque sauce.” Sretch said.
“Mustard fer me.”
“Ketchup too. Thanks bro you’re the coolest.”
“He wasn’t offering you lazy squabblers anything!” Edge barked.
Jada laughed at the silly chattering again. “Maybe some more of those protein bars?”
“Of Course Human Jada!” Papyrus agreed.
Jada smiled her thanks and she sat by Russ, looking at the movement of her arm, she was rubbing his back. If one wasn’t paying attention they would think nothing happened, but his eye sockets looked more relaxed and half lidded at ease.
At some point even Edge lowered his head down like he was whispering something in Jada’s ear, making her blush some with little giggles. On one hand it as nice to see such real…harmony in a household. On the other, it made Alicia feel in an awkward position or like a third wheel. On the outside though she kept a pleasant look on her face, not wanting to ruin the moment. She washed up her things and quietly excused herself. Back up to her room she went, entertaining herself for another couple of hours or so until she was sure the crowd downstairs was gone. Alicia decided she’d go for a walk around the property, outside looked like such a pretty day for it.

The house seemed to quiet down for now as she ventured down to the back door. Then right outside she was greeted by the sunny day. Alicia was one of those folks who liked going on nature walks, exploring the new area she was in. She was one of ‘those people’ who instead of shirts and trinkets, her idea of a souvenir was plants or seeds to be brought back, like an oversized hobbit. Not that anyone seemed bothered by it. Later on she will put some more applications out there afterwards. She ventured around the yard, to the fence line, examining the nearest trees, the edge of the forest especially. There were large game trail at various spots and she wondered if deer or hog frequented this area….she reeeaaally hoped wild hogs did not come near here! Eventually she turned back towards a very large cabin sized shed. Curiously walking around it till she saw the door was open ajar. Giving into temptation, she opened the door and peered inside. Benches with a few bottles or tools on it, one wall lined with yard tools and the smell of wood still potent like the shed was only just built. It was certainly kept very clean and well swept, nothing out of place and on the opposite end looked like another door. Alicia was impressed by the good variety of tools, till she did see a sort of dark rusty red stain on the floor. Kneeling down to get a better look at it, at first glance, it looked like an old blood stain. Tilting her head, she tried to think on how exactly it got here, but a latch sound pulled her out of her musings and she turned around to see a very tall and looming monster, roughed up and big swollen, unblinking eye glaring down at her like a malevolent beacon. A deep grunting sound like a territorial bear would make, coming from him as he stepped towards her. Alicia stood up, hands out in a calming motion as she ignored her own instinct to take off running. “Hello.” She started, trying to keep her voice from shaking as she back pedaled towards the other door. “ Sorry I was just leaving.” She said but the door behind her slammed shut as she turned to it, catching a glimpse of dark red magic before it faded. The over-bearing monster was right behind her sniffing.
“You…it’s your fault..” He said.
“My fault for what?” Alicia whirled on her heels at him. “I, the door was open so I just peeked inside-“
“The food is gone…and he didn’t eat….You…took ours..” The hulking monster growled as he reached for her, easily hoisting her in his hands like she was just a doll.
“Food? No there’s still food! I can get you some! I promise!” She said watching his jagged clawed hands warily. Thankfully he paused at her last words.
“I didn’t see any…” He rumbled.
“There is. I can go get some and bring it to you.” She offered. The monster stared at her, with that same unblinking red eye, close enough where she noticed a small black pupil shaking about. She saw his eye glance down to her chest and a small humming sound like he was pondering on something else. At last he put her down on her own feet now, and Alicia wordlessly went out the door, pacing back to the house. She made a B line for the kitchen, which was empty, but she didn’t care. Going to the fridge to find any left overs…none. She scavenged the drawers and quickly went about putting together some large sandwiches made out of tortilla bread instead of regular bread as there were no more sliced bread. Layer of cold cuts, shredded cheese, spinach and some condiments of mustard and mayo, she put together two large round sandwiches and vigilantly washed everything that she used. With the two makeshift sandwiches made, she ventured back to the shed, opening the door with her foot carefully. The big cycloptic monster wasn’t there, so she opted to put the two plates on the bench.
“Wowie! You have returned afterall!” Another loud voice had her jumping out of her skin as she saw an even bigger monster, a roughed up Papyrus, come stepping through the threshold with a blood stained smile. “My brother thought he might have accidentally scared you off, but with Orange, I doubted it was so easy. Oh you have brought us meals after all! That is very kind of you human. Axe! Turn the lights on for us will you?”
Behind him, the back room was lit up to reveal a cozy looking kitchen on the other side of the second doors, like it was in fact an extra cabin home connected to the tool shed. Alicia’s eyes snapped back to the bigger monster who tilted his head slightly at her and then to the plates pointedly. Thus snapping her out of her stupor.
“Oh yes. Here you are. Um, you were right, there was no more breakfast.” She lamented. “So I hope these sandwiches will do for now.”
The taller monster’s face morphed into a look of shock at her as he took the plates. “Please, come in and let us properly introduce ourselves.” He said softly. Easily he turned his great lengthy body gracefully inside as he put down the plates at the table. “Brother, she made these for us.” He said as if it was the latest headline. Alicia’s brows rose at that, and she smiled a small expression at the one called Axe. He too now looked a little surprised for a second before his stale grin turned downward some as he eyed the plates.
“I am Trap by the way. Please forgive my brother’s earlier greeting.” The Papyrus looking guy said as he put some water to boil. He snickered as he watched Alicia clamber onto a chair a little too big for her.
“My brother just tried to go hunting when he saw that the kitchen was empty and it was not very successful. So he gets a little, frustrated when food is low. But I keep telling hi it is only temporary till they come back from the store.” Trap explained.
“It’s alright, no harm no foul.” Alicia assured. “My name’s Alicia. Good to make your acquaintance.”
Looking around inside the cabin, the place had a much nicer, polished rustic look to the kitchen that she found instantly comforting. A vast contrast to the dangerous creatures she had encountered earlier.
“You...get to have your own, whole house?” She asked as she admired the homie space.
“Why yes. We have everything we could need in this cabin.” Trap smiled. “Would you like some tea?”
“Oh yes please.” Alicia grinned at the offer. “May I also ask… did you choose to stay here? It seems like there’s some much room at the main house.” She carefully tread the question carefully. Already she saw Axe’s face darken some.
“It’s cuz they think we’re too dangerous ta be around their precious human.” He answered bitterly.
Alicia face furrowed. “Jada said she has been living here for around two years. You mean to say they ostracized you here for two years so far? But...they’re monsters too…”
“Heh, but they didn’t greet ya with threats and growls.” Axe answered, earning a disapproving look from Trap.
“They didn’t greet me at all really. I got derisive glares and crabby attitudes like I spit in their coffee. Things are weird and tense. They’re pretty closed off to me.”
“Really? How odd. I thought they got along with all humans quite well.” Trap said as he sat down the cup of tea to her before taking his seat next to Axe. “Please excuse us for a minute. You may also wish to turn around.” He warned.
Alicia did turn side ways some but was too curious to turn all the way around. The brothers loomed over their plates and suddenly tore into it, shoveling food in their mouth like it was a race and even licking the plates clean. The spoons probably would have been bitten in half had they not removed it from their mouths fast enough. Alicia hid her bemused smile behind the cup given to her.
Within a very short amount of time, they were all done, with the utensils all looking as clean as when she first grabbed them. “Good lord..” She said impressed. “Was that even enough?”
Trap seemed to have a light dusting of yellowish across his face. “To be honest, no. But do not worry human! It was still very kind of you to deliver that meal to us, it still really hit the spot!” Trap was quick to reiterate. “But, we tend to have large appetites sometimes and we did not eat breakfast this morning.”
Axe saw her facial expression change and read it like an open book. His expression even changing to a more light hearted and humored look. “Nice of ya to show some concern fer us, but it was our fault really fer missin’ the meal time.”
“So then you are at least, welcomed to the main house whenever you’d like right?” Alicia asked.
“Fer the most part yeah.” Axe answered. “But so long as our own pantry is full, I don’t bother going there at all.” Axe rumbled.
Alicia could understand that. Of course she knew there could be many different reasons, pondering over the most possible ones as Trap went to clean the dishes the right way. “Do you need to go grocery shopping today? We could go together? Oh but, I don’t know if you could fit in my car easily…”
Trap looked back at her in a surprised smile. “Another kind offer, but I’m afraid I must decline it. You see.. we do not have as much money as of yet, though that shall start to change after my training is complete. Then I could even buy my own car as well!”
“Oh that’s great. So how do you do your shopping now though?”
“Sometimes Russ can give us a ride in the MPV.” Axe says. His trembling had lessened a lot and the color of his bones lightening up some by this point.
“Do you have cell phones? If anything, you could even text me a few things on your list and I can see about picking them up from the store during my own shopping.”
“That would be brilliant human!” Trap grinned as he looked as if he was brighter somehow too. The three exchanged numbers with happy smiles like they were all middle school kids.
Trap offered to walk with her around all the perimeters of the property, showing her all the places he liked to go for a quite walk or foraging some wild blackberries that grew in the woods area. It was both pleasant and sad to her honestly. Axe said he was too tired still, rubbing his forearms or legs like they were sore. That they were at the point where they’d consider wild berry foraging before going in the main house for too long or even shopping. He showed her how he harvested the blackberry vines for basket weaving as well.
“Wow this is as relaxing as calligraphy.” Alicia smiled as she practiced with him.
“Nyeh heh heh. It does help in giving the hands something to do doesn’t it.” Trap grinned as he expertly weaved the vines.
“You live the homestead dream life it seems.” Alicia smiled softly to him.
Trap and Axe, if she were honest with herself, were like the bright new morning everyone loved to wake up to after a rough stressful night.
The next few days she happily found herself spending more time with them in finishing the baskets, playing board games and video games or even just watching shows.
Alicia went for a long walk in the afternoon, exploring the country neighborhood and getting glimpses of what kind of neighbors they even had. On her way back, she saw that Blue had come home from his work. She smiled softly and waved to him while still going towards the stairs. Knowing that the blue dude was still skittish around her, she chose not to engage with him too much right now other than friendly politeness. Up stairs she went to shower off real quick and back downstairs.
There she saw all the skeletons congregated in the living room or the kitchen. Alicia was beginning to see a clear line between the more lazier guys and the more active ones. “Would anyone like any help?”
“No! Stop distracting us with your nonsense!” Edge snapped.
“No thank you human! We have everything sorted out already!” Papyrus said as if trying to ease the sting of Edge’s prickly answer.
Alicia back pedaled out of the kitchen now. On the corner of her eyes she saw Blue and Razz also cleaning up parts of the house in a tireless manner. “Would uh, either of you like and extra pair of hands?”
“I like to make sure things are done right the first time.” Razz answered swiftly.
“No thank you human.” Blue answered.
Well… she offered. So now she idly ventured to the living room where the others were lounged about. Though this time now Jada was there, flirting and draped all over Red.
Gross.
She immediately wanted to leave if this was going to turn into a make-out. Luckily it didn’t though, in fact Jada smiled and greeted her. “Hey Alicia, come join us.”
Alicia found a chair to sit comfortably at the invitation. “How is everyone?”
“Always happy with all my boys are home.” Jada anwered rubbing Red’s chest (or ribcage?) Red rubbed her back and smiled a grin she wasn’t sure she even wanted to describe.
Alicia kept her eyes on the TV, not even wanting to look at that. It felt kind of intrusive on her part.
Sans sat nearest to her, but she didn’t really have anything to say to him after his law-of-the-land lecture the other day. It kind of irked her how he addressed her that way still, childish as it may be to hold a little grudge like that. Alicia kept an eye out to see if Axe or Crooks might come in for dinner, it had her shoulders dropping some at neither of them showing up.
“Supper is ready!” Papyrus called from the kitchen.
The dinner setting was even more livelier than breakfast.
“So how’s the job searching going?” Jada asked.
“It’s going. I have another interview lined up in three days.” Alicia answered easily.
“You do not even have a proper job? How do you expect to pay rent then?” Razz rudely interjected.
“With money.” Alicia answered in a purposefully simple way.
“Money you do not have or are you getting it by other distasteful means?” He shot next.
“It’s rude to ask a lady about her money.” Alicia’s eyes met him as she tried to keep a lid on her own temper at the audacity this little snot had.
“So you do not have a reliable or dignified way of earning finances? Or perhaps you hoped to freeload your way in this home?” Razz sneered as he seemed to get more irritable at her too.
“Savings Razz. Or maybe you like to blow yours on ‘distasteful means’? But I like to save and invest my finances. Thank you very little.” She quipped. Seething on the inside that this guy would call her out like that in front of everyone.
“Razz stop being so mean to her. Let’s just have a nice dinner.” Jada intervened again.
“This dinner is another masterfully crafted meal.” Alicia said now to help change the subject better.
“Thank You Human Alicia.” Papyrus grinned.
Going through the same detailed clean up she did in the morning, Alicia cleaned up her mess and went back to her room. Upstairs at her porch, she could see Trap and Axe’s cabin, a little bit of light coming from the window. She texted Trap to see what they’d do about dinner.
The friendly monster said that Axe would just come by in a little bit for the left overs now that there certainly would be. Alicia decided to wait a little longer out of her own curiosity to see if that were true. and sure enough, quieter than a mouse, Axe had come in. For a big guy he sure could step quietly. Alicia would have missed him had she not been sitting where the back door was in view. He shared a casual smile in quiet greeting before extracting the meals from the kitchen and exiting the house. Alicia watched the others in the living room while Axe was there. Noticing that some of them barely spared a glance at him as well, others acting like he wasn't even there. It made her frown in agitation at this shunning act. Or maybe, she was overthinking it again. Though she made mental note of it.
So now with nothing else left to do, she did some job searches before showering and bed time.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3- A day in good company

As the days slowly dragged on, Alicia was already getting bored with the same old routine and it’s only been but a week. Get up, check emails, do some stretches, try to catch a meal when someone was in the kitchen, put out job applications, take a walk or watch something. She did find that she greatly enjoyed spending time with Trap and Axe. Their company was like a breath of fresh air, something to look forward to, and she especially loved that Trap had some similar interests as she did.

“What the fuck?!” Red exclaimed so abruptly that it startled Alicia some. She looked at the archway of the kitchen to see his irate glare directed at her. “Yer the one takin’ all my mustard!”
“Uh…Oh I thought it was communal. Sorry.” Alicia stammered on her words some as he stomped forth.
“Ya got some nerve, stealin’ shit that ain’t yers.”
“It’s not stealing if it’s something usually regarded for everyone to begin with. I only used a little for the sandwiches.” Alicia coolly replied.
“Makin’ two? Who’d wanna eat with you?! Touch my mustard again and ya lose a finger!”
“Look! No one told me it only belonged to you okay!” Alicia replied as she put it back in the fridge. Just as she did, Red retrieved it as if someone would take it again after that angry chihuahua snapping.
Alicia plucked up the plates and hurried off to the back cabin, leering at the ground as she grumbled about Red under her breath. She got to the second door and knocked, walking in when she heard the ‘ok’ from Axe.
“Hello hello!” Alicia greeted. “What’s going on my friend?” Alicia smiled as she watched Axe’s large form rumble forth from the living room of the cabin.
“Heya buddy.” Axe returned. “Heh, ya sure ya don’t have anything better ta do than havin’ ta bring us a meal? We’re not baby bones ya know.” He teased a little as he grabbed one of the plates to put in the fridge. “My bro ain’t here yet. Went with Russ to go shopping.”
“Ha! Babies can’t eat sandwiches anyway. Gives me another reason to come and visit with you. Do you and Trap like mustard? I think I’m going to buy a bottle to keep here as well from now on.” Alicia said.
Axe regarded her with a bemused look. “We don’t mind it, but my favorite condiment to drink is ketchup.”
“….To drink? He drinks the mustard? Is that why there’s so many bottles of condiments in the fridge and Red acted like a prickly little chihuahua grinch? The guy threatened to take my fingers. What’s so special about condiments that you’d be THAT stingy over them?” Alicia ranted.
Axe got a real hoot by her rant as he laughed so hard his whole head tilted back. “It’s kinda the same way humans are with their beer.”
“Gross.” Alicia replied quickly. “I don’t even like beer. I’m more a of a rum and soda or wine kind of gal. Sooo, does that mean I’ve been getting you tipsy with my sandwiches?”
Axe’s smile stayed stretched on his face as he chuckled once more. “I’d need a lot more than that to get me drunk.”
Alicia snorted in dry humor. More happy that she got Axe to laugh than anything.
“but don’t take it too personal.” Axe said as she sobered. “Red and his brother Edge, it’s just their nature ta be some mean monsters. They’re probably the slowest ta open up ta anyone.”
“Hmph. Wonder how Jada got them to be like teddy bears in her arms.” Alicia mused as she sat with Axe. The big monster did not respond much, even after he ate. He didn’t seem to have much to say about Jada.
“So I was thinking of hitting the thrift store in town, Want to come check it out with me?” Alicia changed subject now.
“Huh? Ya mean the place they buy and sell used clothes?” Axe rose his brow. “Sounds weird.” He teased.
“I will have you know, good sir, that I have found many a good gem at the thrift stores. Or any resale stores for that matter. They’re not at all what the stereotypes assume.” Alicia snickered softly at his face.
Axe smirked in humor. “Eh, I’ve never been much interested in the fashion trends.”
“Yes I noticed.” Alicia lightly teased, earning a finger pointed at her. “In that case, would you mind if I bought something for you and Trap? Just to try.”
Axe now fixed her with his swollen unblinking eyelight. “What kinda weirdo asks if they could buy a gift for someone, instead of just getting the gift and giving it?” he teased back.
Alicia chuckled. “A kind that’s simply trying to be respectful. Not everyone likes other people to buy them clothes if their tastes don’t really match up. Say, How did you and Trap end up with names like that? Survival gear for names?”
Axe shrugged his shoulders before they sagged again, his eyelight rolling to the side. “The others came up with that.” He said in a tone both nonchalant and not really impressed.
The sound of another door being opened from the opposite end of the cabin echoed through the house, along with plastic bags. Alicia curiously leaned sideways to see Trap and Russ coming in.
“Ah Hello human Alicia. What Good Timing We All Must Have.” Trap said as he put down some groceries, Russ tailing behind saying nothing as usual.
“Hey Trap, Hi Russ.” Alicia greeted. “Wow ya’ll did a lot of shopping…”
Russ actually had his hood down, making him look like a splitting image of Stretch if the orange skeleton’s smile was less prominent and of course the gold fang. He looked at Alicia for maybe a couple seconds longer than his usual quick glances. “How you doing?” Alicia said softly when she noticed.
Russ made a short ‘mm’ sound as if that was supposed to be a good replacement for using your words.
She deduced that the guy just wasn’t a very open person. She would just have to settle for noises for now. After he helped take everything in, he pulled up his hood back and with a soft “See ya ‘round.” to Trap, he saw himself out.
Trap greeted him and went to his kitchen. “Oh! You Have Brought Us Lunch Again Human. Thank You Again!” He said as he saw the sandwich.
“No problem my dude. Say do You like your nickname? Axe and I were just talking about them.” Alicia conversed.
Trap’s head tilted an angle as he looked to be thinking on it. “It is not the worst name we have been given, I was not overly excited about it either.” Trap confessed as he shrugged, seeming nonchalant about it. Since it didn’t seem like much of a bother, Alicia dropped the subject too for now.
“Would you like to go thrift store shopping with me? You and Axe?” Alicia offered.
“Hmm, I do not believe we have ever went before. Is that where we can get clothing and things for much cheaper bargains?” Trap looked interested and smiled even brighter when Alicia affrimed it.
“Can Russ come?”
“Sure.” Alicia answered curious of it but thought it was because he has the vehicle for all of them.
As Trap turned his attention back to his phone to talk to Russ, Alicia and Axe were making funny faces at each other. Neither of them noticing when Trap was done and snapped a selfie with them making faces at each other in the back ground.
“Russ said he can come after all. He’ll just put his studies off one more day.” Trap grinned.
“Oh. If he’s sure then cool cool.” Alicia rubbed her hands together.

Within a few minutes, Russ had shown back up at the door, seeming his normal neutral self and with his hood up. Alicia continued to treat him with a polite smile, or tried to ask him general questions during the trip so as to not exclude him out of conversation, but the guy seemed to be fine with that. So instead of pushing for more, she opted to leave him be, only telling him directions.
Upon arrival, Trap and Axe both seemed to fall in the same muted behavior, looking around as if expecting someone to jump around the corner. Though, now that she thought about it more, maybe they had good reason to act that way in public spaces. Then entering the store, the monsters got some glances, but most of them were only cursory. People shopping in these stores tended to have a more one-track mind.
Axe didn’t really care to browse much, leaving Alicia to find things for him and hold it up to his waist to see if it would fit. At least he was being a good sport about it and just letting her pick whatever. Trap on the other hand was a little more excited to find and match things. The hardest part for him was finding pants that were his length. They had to search for monster sized clothing or stick with shorts for him. Russ went off on his own thing when they entered the store. She saw some cargo shorts that she wanted to check out and excused herself while the two brothers had a ball scouring the isles.
Alicia loved her some cargo style clothing. It never went out of style for her and always was practical with so many pockets to put things in. While examining one pair, she had not noticed the third skeleton beside her until she turned his direction. “Oh, hey Russ. Find anything you like?”
Russ made a subtle shoulder shrug, holding up a pajama set he found.
He didn’t seem all that impressed with it. Maybe he just had a more expensive taste that thrift shopping didn’t always fulfill. “Well, at least you found something.” Alicia mused softly.
Since she had the chance to see him up close, He was a little, scarier. Every detail of scars or cracks on his face, the shiny glint of his gold fangs. He caught her staring at him and raised a questioning brow at her. Alicia smiled apologetically. “Sorry, I was just wondering, about your gold teeth. Are they false teeth or is it a crown of sorts?” Alicia asked. Of course right after asking the question did she realize that was probably a weird and rude question.
Not to mention Russ’s silent stare at her for it really accentuated the rudeness…
“Heh...heh N-never mind I said that.” She stammered some and looked away quickly. She put back the cargo shorts she was eyeing and started off. Why not walk away? Already made it weird and rude, may as well disappear now. Hopefully her apologies would smooth it over and she could try again later.
“Brother, you cannot wear the ear mittens. You do not have ears.”
“I’m kinda ‘mitten’ with ‘em.”

Alicia followed the voices of Axe and Trap till she rounded the corner and saw them dressed for winter. Trap had on a long poncho, a hat, and leg warmers, while Axe had boots and ear muffs over the fuzzy hat on his head. “Ohh my goodness you two look way too cuddly.” Alicia snickered at how a simple change of clothes and accessories made them look like teddy bears.
“You think, we look hug worthy?” Trap said in surprise to her.
“You two were always ‘hug-worthy. Just now it’s even more inviting.” Alicia restated as she came over to do just that. Trap looked oddly shocked by this, even gasping a little as his long arms came around her to complete the gesture.
“Wowie.” Trap said softly just loud enough for the three of them. The hug was long, but right afterwards Alicia turned to Axe, arms out for an expected hug. To which Axe just stood there staring at her, his cheeks slowly turning a deeper red.
“Come on. You have to bring it in too.” Alicia coaxed as she decided to take the initiative and hug him. Axe hardly moved, except for one hand coming up to pat her awkwardly on her back a couple times before she pulled away. He was still blushy and did not make eye contact with her when she regarded him. “Thank you Axe.” She decided to say and turn away to take the cart they piled clothes in. “Are you two done? I’m going to go ahead and snag a placein line.”
“O-OH! Yes we are finished.” Trap answered.
With that Alicia stood in line since these places tended to have long waits and all. When she saw a shadow engulfing hers, she looked over to see Trap had silently made his way to stand beside her. Axe went to sit on a bench with Russ who apparently already paid for his things.
Alicia passed the time by play fist-bumping Trap who just smiled amusedly down at her. “Does Axe not like to be touched?” Alicia asked him.
“He has no problems with physical contact at all really. I, we are not used to getting hugs from, the opposite gender..” Trap explained a little embarrassed as he rubbed his neck some.
“Should I not do that with you two anymore?”
“No! No that is not how I meant it.” Trap frantically tried to explain himself. Alicia patted the air in front of her with one hand to show how it was all well and good, effectively calming Trap down again.
“I enjoyed the hug, and I know my brother did too.” He started again, smiling down at her in a very contagious grin.
Alicia was quite happy to hear that as honestly, she enjoyed hugging them quite a lot. At the register, she helped take the clothes off the hanger and paid for them before Trap cold get his card out. A cute and confused “Nyeh? Hey..wait.” was behind her as she smiled mischievously while she rejoined the others.
“A-Alicia.” Trap said as they walked out. “You did not have to pay for our things like that.”
“I know but neither did you have to come out with me and I wanted to do a little something nice.” Alicia explained as they got back in Russ’s vehicle.
Axe had another sort of surprised look, to the point where he was just staring at her now for minutes while Russ drove them back home. Alicia tried to ignore it or put up with it as long as she could until she just couldn’t stand the unblinking red gaze beside her. “Are you alright Axe? I did mention I’d do something like this earlier didn’t I?”
“...Yeah.” The monster slowly answered, forcing himself to finally look away to his hands or outside.
When they returned to the cabin, Alicia thanked Russ again for the ride and reminded them to wash the clothes before wearing them. “...not that you have the same kind of germ worries that humans have but, it’s still a good habit to have.”
Russ gave one more grunt of acknowledgment before he left again. That’s also when Alicia just snapped that she should have asked about what Russ was studying, it would have been a good conversation starter.
Glancing back in the cabin, Trap re appeared with a large hamper of his and Axe’s clothes, along with all the new pieces they bought. Both he and Axe actually were now just in a tank top and basketball shorts. “Did, did you two just strip down to undergarments to wash everything?” Alicia asked bemused.
“Why yes we did!” Trap smiled. “We do not have very much clothing before, usually just sticking with a minimalist lifestyle in order to grow our savings better. I thought it would be a good treat to ourselves to go out, only to be treated by you again.” The tall skeleton said softly with a voice thick with gratitude as if it was Christmas for them.
Alicia, actually did not really know how to respond to that. Should she feel sorry for them, or repeat herself that she was ‘happy to help’ or whatever stale, overused courtesy that was popular?
“M-may they serve you well.” She muttered. “Would you like any help?”
“I got somethin’. Ya hungry? I’ll take ya to one of my favorite places.” Axe intervened. “ Bro? Ya want anything from Grilbz?”
“No thank you. I have things to make a great salad for us now! But put your clothes back on.” Trap smiled over his shoulder waving his brother off to go have fun.
Axe chuckled as he fished out his old faded jacket and shorts. “Come on Kiddo.” Axe gestured for Alicia to follow. “an’ don’t try ta pull a fast one on me. It’s my treat this time.”
“No argument here.” Alicia smiled after him. “Are we walking there though?”
“Some of the way.” Axe said as he went around the house, stopped and turned to face her. He held out his hand to her. “Close yer eyes fer a sec. I got a shortcut.”
Alicia blinked once baffled but decided to trust him, taking his hand and closing her eyes. It felt like the ground, air and everything disappeared for a second and reappeared back. She opened her eyes to see they were now at the end of some alleyway by a street. “ What the-? You can teleport?” she gawked. “We could have just teleported to the thrift store.”
“Nah, I can only shortcut ta places I already been and remember.” Axe answered casually as he pocketed his hands back. He took a right as they walked out of the little alleyway.

Alicia followed Axe down the street through a part of town she was not yet familiar with. There weren’t as many humans here and the monsters, while coming in all shapes and sizes still, also had another extra theme going on. Like they were rougher looking and not as many bright colors. They even eyed Alicia as they passed by, really making her feel out of place and sticking close to Axe.
“Where are we?” She asked him.
“Just an older part of town. Most of the monsters that come from a, rougher life, tend to live here. Got a lot of older friends here too. We’re going ta go meet one. He ran a restaurant back home once. And he’s getting’ back into it now that we’re up here on the surface.” Axe retold as they kept walking. Eventually they came to a well kept building on the corner. The sign above it read Grillby’s and the door bell chimed as they walked in. The place looked a little empty, for now, not even anyone at the bar appeared to be there. Axe walked right in like it was his home and sat on a stool up front. Alicia following suit. At the side was a wall decorated with photographs of various sunrises from all places of the country or more/
“Hey Grillbz.” Axe muttered.
“Hey S- Axe.” A whole new voice replied making Alicia turn back around. There suddenly on the other side of the bar was a fire elemental, a rather dimly lit one. Actually he looked more like a body of melty, orange wax with a few flames sparking here and there. He was even harder not to stare at than anyone Alicia had ever seen. The guy just looked so unnatural, even for a magical monster.
Luckily he also didn’t seem as bothered by her. “Wantcha ta meet a new friend of mine. Alicia.”
Grillby turned his low-burning head to her, like a weird puppet. ‘Hello Miss.” He crackly voice spoke again.
“Nice to see Axe is actually talking to people again.” He said with a small hint of humor.
“Heh, Hello Grillby. How’s your day going?” Alicia asked.
“Starting off slow, but not complaining. What can I get you two?”
“The usual fer me.” Axe answered.
“Chicken strip basket please.” Alicia answered. When the elemental disappeared in the back, Alicia leaned to Axe. “Do all elementals look like him?”
Axe’s grin stretched a little more to a maniacal look. “Why? Does he scare ya?” He chuckled some.
“Nah, most are gonna look a lot healthier. Grillby here, he almost dusted a few times back in the Underground. The magic was much more potent, keeping his body together, but, when it started ta fade, His body started eating itself right down ta his very soul. Coming to the surface though, His pain has decreased a good deal. He still got a long road to recovery though.”
Alicia grimaced at the sad story, looking back to Axe. “Do You and Trap get a lot of pains too?” She asked and then waved a hand. “Ah, sorry if that’s prying too much.”
“…Sometimes yeah. Lack of magic and a famine really pushed us all to an unstable position.” Axe answered. His head swiveling to regard Alicia as he divulged this information to her. She did, predictably look saddened by that as she digested in the information, and as their eyes met her lips quirked to a ghost of a smile. “I’m really happy you’re all here now.”
Axe’s face froze, staring at her with that unblinking sort of long gaze that didn’t let up until Grillby showed back up with the orders. He placed them in front of the respected person, looking between her and Axe. A raspy chuckled escaped him as he watched Alicia fidget in her seat some. “Didn’t realize Axe was that infatuated with you.” He joked. “Your meal is ready Axe.” Grillby tapped at Axe’s shoulder to get his attention, properly getting the skeleton to snap out of it and blush as she turned to eat. Alicia looked away so as to not embarrass him further.
“Do you travel a lot?” Alicia asked Grillby as she gestured to the sunrise photos.
“Ah, no. They’re pictures I found online and printed out. I really found a love for sunrises. They add a little cheer when I’m not the Grillby everyone is looking for. They want the Grillby on the north side, not the ‘wax man’. I may as well change my sign to that…”
“ To ‘Wax man’? But you don’t sound like you like the name much.” Alicia asked him taking a bite of her meal.
“I don’t, but eventually you get used to things and learn to adapt.” The bartender spoke as if that was his motto, and it probably was.
This was quite understandable. So many people in situations they can’t just get out of and have to learn to adjust to it until something better comes along. But, sometimes an epiphany comes along and you realize you could make a change yourself, even if it’s small at first.
After finishing a chicken tender, Alicia spoke up again. “How about a new name, one that you can be proud of you know? You’re on the surface now. You get to start new.”
“That’s mighty optimistic of you.” The bartender said as he wiped down a counter from a salt spill.
Alicia snorted. “It’s also true. How about something relating to the sunrise? Aarush for example. It means first rays of the sun. Ooor Ignacio! Or even Ignatius!”
The fire elemental’s charcoal mouth quirked in a hint of a smile. “Your enthusiasm is a breath of fresh air, I’ll give you that much.”
Alicia wasn’t entirely sure if his mood was lifted or he was just humoring her, though she smiled for the little compliment anyhow. “Thank you.” Alicia said jokingly. “It’s just..” she started again after a bite. “Sine you’re all here on the surface now, and been here long enough to learn how it works up here. You don’t have to be what you were in the old life anymore. You can, be a new sunrise everyday.”
Grillby’s hands slowed to a stop briefly before working again. “That’s..mighty kind words coming from a human.”
Alicia snorted. “We’re not all bad. Most of us are just misguided.”
Axe now snorted at this, though whether it was out of humor or disbelief, Alicia could not tell.
There was a lull in the conversation, now where the three were just enjoying each others’ company in a sort of silent camaraderie as the food was ingested and utensils cleaned.
In the evening time more monsters came filing into the bar for a dinner break, Grillby now pulling away to carry out work. The place wasn’t super packed but had gathered a decent crowd of monsters that had a rough look about them much like Axe and Grillby, as well as the gruffer look or a few cute looking monsters dotting the place. She noticed that from the from sore windows, as the sun was descending, the bar and back walls would gently light up from the last of the sun’s rays into the restaurant. It gave off a nice arm glow that gave a good ending to a good day.

Chapter Text

One morning, Trap had invited Alicia over to share a breakfast he made for himself, Axe, and her. He made an excellent omelet with bacon and toast, breakfast for champs. Alicia helped by cleaning up a little bit before meandering back to the main house and eventually back to her room.
She idly walked back to the main house, eyes cast downward and head in the clouds. She glanced at Papyrus’s raised garden project and fantasized about making one of her own or various other outdoor projects she could try. She hadn’t even seen Stretch until he spoke, spooking her out of her thoughts from the lawn chair he looked to be glued in.
“Hey. I see you’re getting friendly with Axe and Trap.”
Alicia looked at him, wondering how on earth she missed him that easily. “Hey. Yes. How have you been?”
“Alright.” Stretch answered slowly as he eyed her. “You sure you should be talking to those two?”
“Why ever not? They are friendly.” Alicia asked.
“Hmm, looks can be deceiving.”
“Then they have behaved in a welcoming manner that puts me at ease and encourages companionship.” Alicia answered. “Why don’t you like them?”
“Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate them. I am aware of how dangerous they can become at the drop of a bone. Actually I’m surprised to see them taking so well to you.” Stretch mused slowly.
“Hmm.” Alicia hummed as theories came to her mind. Though she didn’t voice any of them. Instead she switched topics again. “What are you up to? Getting a tan?”
Stretch continued to look at her in that hard to read impassive gaze before answering. “I like to come out here on good days. It’s peaceful.”
“Do you also like to do outdoor projects, like Papyrus and his garden?” Alicia flicked a hand towards the raised garden bed.
“Nah, not usually. I just enjoy the peace and weather. Maybe a book too. You seem to like it out here. Every day I see you come back here, bringing a meal to their cabin or such. How’s the job searching going?” He asked, and if Alicia was the paranoid type, she’d think he was trying to call her out on something.
“Yes, and so far it’s good. Now I’ll just see who bites.” She answered in both a vague and honest means.
“Good luck.” Stretch droned.
“Thank you kindly.” Alicia nodded, taking that as a good end to the chat and leaving.
She didn’t feel too comfortable carrying on conversation with him when he was talking like that, prying. Or, then again she could be overthinking it and he was just trying to get to know her better?
Ugh, Alicia did have a habit of second guessing her choices sometimes.
Inside the house, it was alive like some kind of small party going on. In the living room she saw most of the guys focused on the TV playing a video game like they were in competition. Pausing for a minute to observe, sure enough nearly all except Blue, Sans and Papyrus were there. Even Edge was exclaiming his colorful victory shouts.
Alicia watched them until that lost it’s charm and she didn’t want to feel like some creep just standing there. Inside the kitchen she found Papyrus in the kitchen.
“Hello Papyrus. Not joining the gaming?”
Papyrus turned halfway to her as he put a pot away. “Hello human. No I’m afraid not right now.” He sounded a little more down than his usual chipper self.
“What’s the matter? Can I help?” Alicia walked in looking around.
“Oh It’s just my brother. Busying himself in his work and forgetting to come eat or his sleep gets disturbed. Hmph! He skipped breakfast and lunch today and every time I look for him I get no luck in finding him. I’ve texted him a few times and get late replies of ‘OK’s.” Papyrus vented. He looked back at her and forced a smile. “But not to worry, He’ll show up and get an earhole full soon enough! Especially if he skips dinner!”
Alicia smiled kindly to him. “Would you like me to help look for him?”
“Oh that would be nice. Yes please and tell him his brother is cross with his boondoggling. Exactly those words.” Papyrus answered with his hands on his hips.
“Certainly.” Alicia agreed and turned on her heels to go search for him. She started with the living room. “Excuse me, has anyone seen Sans?” she asked in a much louder voice to make sure she was heard.
Russ looked at her once. Red scowled at her and huffed. Razz ignored her and only Edge answered without looking at her. “Probably some place being a lazy slob. Try his room!”
Looking down the hall, she went to the T section of it. Alicia didn’t really know which was his room. Left or right? She chose right to check first. Knocking on doors, she found another bathroom, another closet, Papyrus’s room and finally Sans’s room. Daring to open and peek in, she saw it dark and very messy. A mattress on the floor, socks and clothes strewn about. A desk with papers all over it and a small bookshelf lined with books. Everything except Sans. So she closed that scary room right back up and kept going.
She came to another door at the end of the hall, one that had a code pad on it like it was a bank. But…the door wasn’t closed all the way. She started by knocking. No answer. She put her ear to it and could hear muffled humming or rhythmic beeping. “Sans?” She tried calling. Still no answer.
Carefully she opened the door. The room looking so much different than the house. Actually she looked like she was looking into a laboratory. She stared at everything that was in her view now, carefully stepping in. Eyeing everything like she was in wonderland, she saw a desk and a large cork board on the wall that had some kind of mug shots of all the skeletons there with a profile page on them. She skimmed over a few details of them before turning to look at the different machines and screens on sleep mode. Nothing was very obvious about what these machines or this lab even was about. What did stick out was a red stain looking far too much like blood on the white flooring. She kneeled down to touch it and it was still wet. The smudge on her hand even glittered like kids’ toothpaste. Human blood didn’t do that…was Sans or someone hurt? She looked around and found drops marking an obvious trail that she followed around a bend and to another closet. “Sans?” She called out before opening the door. There on the floor was that very skeleton, in some lab coat and looking like he passed out.
“Sans!” Alicia kneeled down and gently shook him. “Sans, please wake up. Come on.” She tried coaxing and checking his body for any more of those odd red spots. She didn’t know if monster had magic blood of some sort or just dusted, but for now she just helped sit him up. “Hang in there, I’ll get Papyrus.” She got up and just as she did, Sans opened his sockets and rose one hand. Alicia suddenly felt some pressure on her chest and had no time to think on it as her whole body was flung against the wall. She flailed to try and break free of whatever this was.
Sans, slowly rose to his feet, an angry energy coming off of him in waves, his head raising up to show one socket empty and the other glowing a yellow-ish cyan color, blue magic wafting off like wisps of smoke. He walked till he was right in her face. “ W h a t a r e y o u d o I n g h e r e?”
Alicia stared in shock at him, until he growled at her and his clenched fists shook. “ Answer me!”
“Papyrus was looking or you and I was helping him find you! Then I saw the red stuff and you on the floor and I got worried.” Alicia explained trying not to yell or let her voice get too shaky.
“Who let you in here?!” Sans was growling more than talking. He sounded like he was trying to say more things but the words faded into incoherent growling and from the edges of his mouth, the reddish stuff oozed out a little.
“Sans you’re bleeding.” She tried.
The skeleton shook his head and let out a shaky sigh like trying to regather himself. “It’s not blood. Look, just get outta here. Don’t you ever, e v e r, come back in here or mention this to anyone or you will regret it years from now.” He made a deadly glare that could make the reaper himself proud. When Alicia did not cower again, he growled out in frustration and pointed back to the door as she felt the pressure go away. “Get out!”
Alicia, though shaken, took her time, walking out with calm, collected steps till she exited the lab. It was then she also realized that she forgot to say the exact phrase that Papyrus asked as she went to the kitchen.
It must have still shown on her face, the way Papyrus looked back at her and his expression falling a little.
“He’s in the lab room, very angry.” She muttered to him before leaving again quickly to the back door. She heard Papyrus’s telltale footsteps from the kitchen and go down the hallway to the lab room.

When Alicia got to her room, she went to her little table and started drawing. The simple art was like a means of therapy to her these days. That and painting, calligraphy, sometimes digital art, it made her happy, this time she drew Sans. His frightening face, flashing eye and aggressive hold on her, all burned in her mind like branding a cow.
Anger flooded her, mixed with the little fear that flared up when she remembered what that pressure was on her chest, undoubtedly caused deliberately by Sans. With a little bottle, she scraped the odd spot on her hand into it and lidded it, putting it in the coldest spot of the room.
After calming down a litle with ome drawing and doodling, she picked up her phone and texted Jada to call or come talk to her as soon as she could. With a frustrated sigh, leaning against the wall on her floor futon, she looked around at the barren room and re assessed her rules. Alicia even entertained the idea of turning this room into a studio apartment.
She didn’t like that she was already second guessing if moving in here was even a good idea, but it was far too early to really say that too. Maybe, if she found ways of getting on everyone’s goood side without having to bend over backwards, it maaay just work. So she entertained herself with ideas until she finally fell asleep at some point for a much needed nap.

In the afternoon she woke to the chime of her phone alerting her about a text message. It was Trap sending a funny photo of Axe sleeping on the couch, sprawled out and mouth opened. Okay that’s funny. She chuckled out loud at it and sent a funny comment back. Alicia took in a deep breath as she let her head back against the pillow, wondering what she should do now. Her open sketch book at the side revealed that the picture she drew was of Sans. A portrait like headshot of his angry, twisted face and flashing eye pulsing with magic. On the back, she dated it with his warning quoted on it.
She debated on telling Trap and Axe of what just happened but ultimately hesitated, not wanting to start any habits of running o them every time someone nipped at her. But there was someone else who did need to know.
Alicia texted Jada to text or call her when she got the chance.
Within half an hour, her phone rang.
“Hey. What’s up?” Jada’s voice echoed from the phone.
“Hey hey. Is Sans okay? Has he been moody recently or is he just always act like he’s frustrated with everything?”
“What? What are you talking about?” Jada asked in clear confusion.
“I offered to go look for him for Papyrus, and when I found him on the floor in his lab, he got up and threatened me.”
“You went into his lab?! Alicia no one is allowed in there without his explicit say so. Not even I ever get to go down there.”
“Yeah well no one told me that. The door was opened and more importantly, I found him on the floor, like he was hurt.” Alicia reiterated. “ I gently tried to wake him up and he got way too aggressive, yelling at me when I’m just trying to do a favor and see that he was okay. He could have just asked me not to come in there any more instead of all that.”
“Well, he gets really protective and picky about his lab you know. It’s his life’s work. It means the world to him, same with Red and Stretch.”
Alicia scowled at that reply. “I wasn’t threatening his life’s work, and I damn sure don’t take threats to my life lightly. It’s no excuse to go off on someone like that only trying to be considerate.” Her temper flared a little bit in her voice as she said her piece.
“Okay okay. I’ll talk to him about it. Just try to understand where he’s coming from okay?”
“I did and I have deemed it unworthy of such ass-holery.” Alicia quipped.
“Okay.” Jada said meekly on the other line.
Alicia quickly deflated at the submissive response. She got her point across. “Thank you Jada. I’d really appreciate it.” she replied in a purposefully softer manner.
“Yeah. Sure thing.”
and so they bid their farewells and Alicia felt almost completely better knowing that she didn’t just keep it to herself completely.

Alicia looked up the map online about the general area she was in and to check out nearby businesses for applying more applications. After selecting a few, she decided to go on a little drive out to visit another friend she had over the years who had moved out here, sharing an apartment with another friend of his. They had a couple of hours catching up and hanging out, sharing information about anyone hiring that he knew of. It was a nice and short visit. No doubt they’ll hang out more in the future. On her way back, she was tried of riding around in her car already touring that side of the town and coming up almost empty handed. At least no one can say she isn’t trying.

So in her room, she did some light exercises like stretches and weight lifts until she was bored of that. And later, went back downstairs for some water and just being curious of what others may be doing about the house. In the kitchen and the smaller table inside the large kitchen, she saw the ever scowling blue eyed monster, Razz, now looking as if he was barely containing his anger. He grumbled to himself as Mutt was there in his silent stoicism, quietly sitting and watching his brother storm about the kitchen in his rant. Blue was also there washing up the last of the dishes before she came in, trying to offer a polite smile, despite the obvious tension in the kitchen. She nodded once to Mutt knowing that he wouldn’t say anything if she greeted him verbally.
“I have only ever been the most loyal of guards amongst one of the most powerful of monster kingdoms. These humans are idiots for holding me back!” Raz ranted.
“Hello Blue, and Razz. How’s it going?” She greeted the others.
“Oh. Greetings Human Alicia.” Blue said with a hint of some underlying nervousness again. She wasn’t sure why on earth he got that way around her? Did she scare the little guy in some way?
Razz sent and icy leer her way as he went to sit at the table.
“Everything okay?” She asked tentatively to Blue as she grabbed a large plastic cup.
Blue glanced up at her and back a the other two. Then turned back to the dishes. “Razz Is Upset Because The Humans At His Job Demoted Him From His Position.”
“Temporarily Demoted!” Razz chipped in quickly. “The imbeciles couldn’t even understand that I did what I had to do to save everyone’s lives!” His fists balled on the table.
“What did you have to do?” Alicia urged.
“There was a savage monster lose. A big one. Savage monsters are extremely dangerous and cannot be reverted to civility once they’ve reached that level. Razz explained. “A team was sent to stop it and I abandoned my post to go dust it before it hurt anyone else. But I am the bad guy because of it! What is wrong with people?! I can understand a slap on the wrist for leaving my post, but it ought to be forgiven for the blood and dust I have saved! I was told they may even be considering termination.”

Alicia’s eyes went down to the tiled floor. There were…a lot of things wrong with people. Especially when some common narrative is pushed and it sounds moralistic, but people don’t see what the details entail for justice. Then easy manipulation comes in because objective thinking is discouraged.
“But, your boss and team are pretty level headed right? Surely they’ll see the logic and you’ll get your promoted place back.”
Razz mutely sneered at that. “I can only hope. Yet they seem intent on bowing down to the ignorant because they can scream louder.”
Alicia grimaced to herself at hearing that. “Should you build a case just in case things get, really ugly?”
“Yes. I am working on having my own ‘ducks in order’ as they say.” Razz huffed. “But I do not know if I will be able to get a lawyer, so it had better not come to that.” He growled out menacingly that had all three pairs of eyes looking at him.
“The Magnificent Blue Has Faith In You And Your Boss. Everything Will Work Out.” The optimistic skeleton added after taking off the rubber gloves to put on his usual gloves.
“Not everything can be fixed with friendship and smiles.” Razz growled in a very crabby mood.
Alicia chewed on her lip at that, because in this case, if it really was easy to befriend a bunch of scared or angry by standers, maybe that would solve the problem.
“It Is Better Than Sulking Or Being Angry About Something I Cannot Change.” Blue harumphed back.
“On the smart side, you are taking every step possible to have your back covered at least too.” Alicia added.
Razz merely snorted this time. He polished off his hot tea and put the cup in the sink where it got quickly washed again by Blue. Razz walked quickly out of the kitchen, possibly to his room judging by his path, his heels clicking in uniform as he made his exit.
“He mentioned savage monsters. Is that a popular thing that happens to monsters?” Alicia aske Blue and Mutt.
Blue hesitated a little bit before answering. “It Depends On What, What District They Lived In. Some Lived Very Hard And Dangerous Lives While Some Lived In More Friendlier Regions Such As My Brother And I. Savage Monster Were A Thing Of History For My District.” He explained and looked off to the side. “I Did Not Think The Surface Would Cause Any More Savage Monster Attacks.” He said softly.

At this, Alicia inwardly winced. She already knew the world was messed up, but she wished it was at least good enough for the monsters to consider it better than being locked underground again. “I’m sorry the world may not be all what you hoped it would be.”
Blue suddenly perked right back up. “No Need To Be Sorry Human! There Are Still So Many Fun Things To Do Up Here! So Many New People To Meet and Places To Go!”
Alicia now smiled too, finding his happiness contagious. “That’s a relief that you see it that way.” She commented before downing the rest of her water and washing her cup. She smiled softly and dipped her head to Mutt in another wordless greeting before exiting the kitchen to get ready for bed.

The next morning, it had almost become routine now for Alicia to go to Axe and Trap’s cabin for breakfast. Then right after eating and cleaning up, it was piling onto the couch to watch an episode of whatever show they felt like while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea, or a bottle of ketchup. After the episode, the brothers took turns trying to take a shower in the all too small bathroom of theirs. After hearing about how Trap has to sit on his knees just to fit right and Axe usually just used the corner bath tub and a pitcher to pour water, she sat on the couch with a furrowed brow as she thought of a solution. Eventually they both came back, in clothes that they got from the thrift store, and hung out again. Then it finally hit her…

“Why don’t you construct a bathhouse?” Alicia word vomited suddenly.
Trap, his head twisting all the way around to look at her suddenly like SHE was the crazy looking one.
“A bath house? All fer us?” Axe said.
“...Mostly but with accommodations for a few guests.” Alicia added some. “It can have a much bigger tub, one that can fit Trap times four. And then maybe three or four shower stalls behind another wall? Another room for a big washer and dryer?” Alicia smiled in hopes that she pitched a good idea to them.
Axe rubbed his mandible. “Ya know, that just may be a good idea.”
Alicia made a mock insulted face. “All. My. Ideas. Are. Good.” she joked.
“No. They’re. Not. Yer still livin’ over yunner.” Axe joked back.
“Touche’.” Alicia admitted. “Anyway. Bathhouse. We make bathhouse yes?”
“YES!” Trap cheered in delight. “But I’m afraid we must first run it by Sans. Since it is still mostly his property.”
“Can you do it? I think out of all of us her would be more obliged to listen to you.” Alicia asked boldly.
Trap made a curious stare at her before answering. “Alright. I will go ask him.” He said slowly as if also unsure if that’s a good idea. However he got up and went for the door. “ I’ll go see if I can speak with him right now!” he said over his shoulder before disappearing.
Axe’s black pupil rotated back to Alicia’s face. “You scared of Sans?”
Alicia snorted at the accusation. “Not of him specifically but of what could happen if our tempers collide. I don’t think I’m on the best of terms with him right now. So if he doesn’t know the idea is even mine, it may increase chances of getting approved. And ya’ll really need to enjoy bath time again!”

Axe didn't look to be very excited or very bored of the idea, just sitting in his spot, comfortably watching as Trap hummed with a pensive gaze before leaving for the main house. "So ya got issues with Sans already?"
"Hopefully not no. But, I'm giving him some space in the hopes that it doesn't come to that. Things were already tense on the first day I got here, and I really hope it all goes away over time. The last thing I need is another toxic house to deal with or I'm outta here." Alicia said resolutely.
Axe's red eye found her face with a blank expression like trying to read a book, though it's unsure what exactly he was hoping to get. Instead he just sighed and leaned his head back. " I wouldn't blame ya."

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 5

Alicia tried to help with the building as much as she could. Which was really just drawing up the floor plans and schematics, painting and interior designs. Trap took the designs to show Sans as well as he continued his pitch to him.
Thankfully Sans actually liked the idea and helped fund it after Trap and Axe went to talk to him.
A truck came by a few days later to lay the foundation and plumbing work. Once that part was done, the brothers wanted to put the rest of the place together themselves. To Alicia great surprise, they knew how to lay the extra masonry, extra plumbing, and electricity, to which Mutt, Stretch and occasionally Red, would come help rig everything up.
Alicia was also blown away at how hard working and fast the monsters could move when properly motivated. It took A LOT to finally get Axe motivated to do anything much but watch and go get food.
But with constant pestering from Trap and Alicia, he finally helped in some way. He used his magic to lift large chunks of dirt from the site, relocating it to these bins that weren’t being used for anything. So Alicia decided to have them used for vermiculture.
She giggled at how Axe over exaggerated how tired he was, flopping on his back like a bear. “Look at you, all sprawled out like a bear that ate too much.”
Axe grunted bemusedly. “Your fault. You worked me to the bone.”
“I gave you something awesome to look forward to.” Alicia retorted playfully. “Bear...can I call you that?”
“Hmm..” Axe opened his good socket to peer up at her while she sat beside him. “Bear huh..Yeah. I like it.”
“What’s going on over here? New names?” Trap came over with a jug of iced sweat tea for the three of them.
“I’m going to call Axe, Bear now.” Alicia said with confidence.
“OH! Do I also get a new name?” Trap asked hopefully.
“Yes….Pookie.”
The look on Trap’s face when she said that had her busting out laughing and waving a hand. “I’m kidding! Totally joking!”
“You had better be!” Trap yelped.
“How about...Lion?” Alicia offered.
“Lion? Me?” Trap said almost like someone was giving him a gift he thought himself unworthy of.
“Yes. If you wanted to stick with an animal theme. I think it suits you pretty well.” Alicia answered.
“I...yes. I think I like that too.” Trap agreed as he sat with then for a break.
Alicia started grinning mischievously as her eyes drifted to his gut. She turned and now started drumming on it lightly making Axe’s whole face morph to a comical surprise that had it’s own cuteness to it. “Beeg ole bear. Lions and Tigers and bears, Oh My!”
“Oh and you would be the Tiger?” Trap smiled.
“Yessie!” Alicia cheered as she beat gently on Axe’s belly.

During the bantering and playing around, another baritone voice announced an audience Alicia didn’t notice they had yet. “You three are sure havin’ fun.”
Sans was suddenly there with a look Alicia couldn’t quite place other than a raised bone brow as if quizzical about them. “Heh heh. Sorry ta drop in unexpectedly, I just wanna talk to Alicia fer a minute.”
Neither Axe or Trap moved, which Alicia took it as a hint that she should if Sans wanted it to be between the two of them. So she got up and followed Sans back to the porch where he lazily turned about to face her. He glanced at her once before huffing softly. “You can relax bucko, I’m not gonna yell at you fer anything, actually, I wanted to apologize for the last time.”
Alicia’s face did not change other than her brows quirked up in question.
“You know, when ya found me in the...lab.” Sans continued in a dryer sort of tone. “I guess ya were just trying to do my bro a favor and all, and it was my fault fer not closing the door all the way. So lemme just clear the air.” He started making her tense even more expecting the worst. “About earlier, I’m sorry I snapped at you for just trying t help. My bro told me how ya offered and how disturbed you looked. And when he found out, he asked me to come apologize, so. I’m sorry.” he finally explained.
Alicia’s tense look dropped down to a more deadpanned look as now it was her turn to be silent.

“What? Not good enough for ya?” Sans half joked.

“No. Fake apologies really aren’t. You mean to tell me you’re only here because your brother asked you to?” Alicia said. Though she wondered too if Jada had talked to him yet at all if Papyrus was the one that prompted him.

“Hey, he gave me an ear-hole full. And he’s right. I took some time to reflect on my earlier behavior and I shouldn’t have acted that way.” Sans shrugged. Neither his explanation or his body language convinced her it was sincere.

“Thus, proving my point.” Alicia mumbled skeptically.

Sans let out a sigh of his own now. “Look, I can’t make you believe me if you really don’t want to, but I am being sincere. If it’s not good enough for you then that’s yer problem.”

Alicia’s face softened to more of a stoic look. “Apology accepted. Thank you for coming t say that to me.” She replied formally. Her lips quirked up some to a hint of a smile. “Soon, we’re going to have a real bath house. Thank you for letting us build one.”

“Oh yeah.” Sans mused as he looked past her to the build site. “That was a good idea of yers. Haven’t seen them so lively in a long time.”

“Trap told you it was my idea? He was supposed to say it was his.” Alicia said sheepishly.

“Heh, he did. I know you’ve all been havin’ a good time together, and a communal bathhouse just seemed like a good investment. So I went ahead and took the blue prints to a contractor to get it all started.”

“Really? The professional liked my designs?” Alicia asked again.

“Sure did. They only offered a few suggestions but otherwise it was good.” Sans said with an easygoing grin. He watched her face as it showed a momentary humbled smile. “Heh, Welp, I’m gonna get back to my own work now.” He stood up straighter and turned on his heels back in the house.

“Alright.” Alicia said somewhat awkwardly behind him. She turned back to the stairs, smiling as she reunited with the horror brothers.

“Everything good?” Lion asked.
“Right as rain.” Alicia assured.

So they went back to building the bathhouse. Alicia working with an extra spring in her step now. She tried picking up her pace to at look act as energetic as Lion was. Or as enduring as Bear was, (when they finally got him to move)

Sans POV

Now that that awkward chat was out of the way, Sans went back to his lab where Red and Stretch were. They were on the cusp of something and he didn’t want to stop now. Through the machine, there was a light that flashed a few times and then small things appeared. Broken glasses, a combat boot, a tattered blue bandanna similar to Blue’s, a tattered red scarf and a pair of red gloves that were tied together.
Neither of them could really places exactly where these things came from or to whom it belonged to, but their best theory was that they were finally reaching back into their own worlds, with albeit unstable portals. It was the best progress they had finally made in the whole year. This gave way to a seed of genuine hope to be planted in Sans’s head. It wasn’t exactly where he wanted to be but it was a step in the right direction. He let himself relax in his chair, his smile a more genuine grin than just a mask for the others.
Even Red, who usually wanted to kick or break something when things didn’t work, was less hostile. Smirking at the standing table as he eyed the old gloves. “I’m thinkin’ we mighta’ reached our worlds, but a different timeline. I neva’ touch my bros’ shit and he neva’ ties ‘em up like this.”
“Hmm…So does that mean there’s a chance of accidentally bringing back a more exact clone of us?” Stretch added as he read over some code on a screen.
“Don’t know, with every step of progress, twenty more questions come with it.” Sans answered. “But, like my Paps would say, we gotta take the good every chance we get.” He looked back a the other two. “In this case, we’re t least a little closer to sending you all back home and where you belong most right?”
Red grunted in response, typical, but Stretch who would usually at least give a thumbs up, didn’t look to in the mood to give even a lazy bout of encouragement. He had an expression that even Sans had trouble reading sometimes. If it was him giving that face, then he would guess that Stretch is just pensive about something. Sans took a deep breath to steady his nerves again as he turned his attention back to the main screen and the machine. “So now, moment of truth. Should we try full power or stick with these mini ports here?”
With the full power, they would be able to use the whole of the machine in a full sized portal instead of these rabbit holes. The last time they did that, Stretch had volunteered to go peek into the portal, with a safety rope tied around him. He cautiously went through and about twenty minutes later he was running out of the portal desperately trying to get it to shut, but Razz and Mutt had chased him through it. There was a scuffle but within the week, they had all calmed down for Sans to explain and to go alert the Royal family about a ‘new undergound’ that managed to break their barrier to come to the surface. As they quickly found out when Stretch and Blue first came in, the whole of their undergound also somehow makes it to this timeline. Why? Sans had yet to discover that.
For that reason, Red was especially reluctant to ever make full sized portals once Fells and Horrors had come to this world. ‘Monsta’s were underground fer a reason.’ Was his answer.
So of course he didn’t give a yes this time either, but to Sans’s surprise. He did grab the rope to tie around his waist. “If we’re doin’ this, I’m going through this time.”
Sans’s eyelights went to Stretch now to see what he said. The orange clad skeleton had his brows raised but didn’t protest. “Just.. take a quick look if it’s anything we recognize, then come right back.”
“I got it ashtray.” Red grumbled as he leered at the machine’s portal gate.
Sans went to work programming a full powered opening with Stretch, alone with an extra scanner he made to get a reading on whoever came through that portal automatically.
The energy cracked to life and soon a full sized portal was made. Red squared his shoulders and slowly walked forth. His form disappearing through the sheet of energy. Sans was on high alert waiting for anything bad to come through, Stretch looking just as tense. Red was gone longer than the both of them were comfortable with till finally he came back, looking unharmed but a deeper frown on his face.
“Nothin’ not a soul in sight. It was a Snowdin underground but ain’t no monster ta be found. Wasn’t mine though. Found pieces of machinery like they mighta’ had a machine like ours at one time.” Red said as he took the rope off.
“I gotta get us a body cam next time.” Stretch mumbled as he powered down the machine.
The portal though, didn’t disappear. Stretch turned back with a baffled frown and tried again but nothing happened. Sans now turned to his station, looking over things and he shut down everything no his end which just made an outer layer disappear and the portal to turn to more of a greenish color.
“The hell is goin’ on?” Red asked. “Why didn’t ya shut it down?”
“We did.” Sans said scanning his station and looking back at the portal. “That’s not ours.”
The three of them looked over a few things on trying to get an explanation, until the portal waved like ripples of water and three more figures came stepping out. Another Sans but slightly taller, his white hood up and a jacket with a slight shimmer to it. Next another Red, his very fluffy hood up as well, broad shoulders and war tattered red sweater and bomber jacket that looked like he stepped out of a war zone. Maroonish magic crackling from his sockets. Lastly another Stretch, with the hollow, metallic tapping of a cane made out of piping heralding his presence, his own hood up and his right eye emitting a yellowish magic smoke. “Well well, looks like my tinkering about with the old parts paid off.” He said in a sinister tone to his voice.
Sans stared in shock as he felt an energy he normally only felt when facing Chara, but why would monsters have that kind of vibes coming from them?
The printer behind him whirred to life and printed out three new profiles of the newcomers that held the answer. He plucked them up and his eyelights shrunk to pinpricks.
“The hell ‘re you three supposed ta be?!” Red demanded.
His counterpart, raised his head a little higher from his attention to a mustard bottle. “Aww..ain’t you cute… I remember when I used ta look like you.” His voice almost as deep as Axe’s with Red’s accent.
“How are you here? Did you open that second portal?” Stretch asked.
“Not exactly. Our machine couldn’t produce it’s own portal much, but with a few adjustments, it could sense another portal and keep it open.” The other Stretch explained. “That’s how these two came to my…world. Then you opened this one just now and we took our chance. Nice place you have here. Must be a really happy place if you three hardly have LV.”
Red’s sockets narrowed as the question in his and Stretch’s head was now there, and Sans was the one to confirm it. “How are you three at nineteen? Where’d you get all that LV?”
Now everything clicked in Red’s head and he pointed an accusatory finger at them. “They fuckin’ killed everyone else there!”

The Sans look alike chuckled a deep baritone of his own, his eyelights of red and purple flashing in amusement. “Ya catch on quick. We owe ya fer getting’ us out of that empty shell, no one but that damned human. Though now, they get ta be stuck in their own hell all by themselves or finally pass on. Ya really helped us out back there an stopped a real evil. Good on you.” He shrugged some. “Now we can finally relax and take a load off.” He started walking forth until Red blocked the way. He used his magic to block the door now too.
“You ain’t goin’ nowhere till we know yer not about ta turn this world to the ghost town you came fr-!” He was suddenly lifted by his collar, choking and gagging on it until he was thrown against the wall. His counterpart grinning and flicking his fingers as he chuckled.
Sans jumped into immediate action, turning them all blue while Stretch summoned tons of bones to cage them in. When Red recovered, he summoned blasters for each of them.
“Don’t let them escape!” Sans said. Upon close inspection, he now noticed the shimmer of his counterpart’s jacket was monster dust. His eyelights went out as he glared at him. “If you try anything, you’re gonna have a bad time Dust buddy.”
“Heh, I prefer a mad time myself!” he answered. His eye lights flaring to life as he used blue magic on all three of them. He sent them all against the walls. Sretch buffered the slam and protected them from red bone attacks by Red’s counterpart, followed by Red’s blasters going off…or would have, had Stretch’s counterpart not smashed them with his pipe cane, bursting them into piles of soot.
“Agh, fuckin’ Soot spitter!” Red cursed.
Red’s counterpart pounded at Stretch’s defense, magic bones splintering everywhere until he finally reached him but was intercepted by Sans’s blaster grabbing him in it’s jaws, smacking him to the other wall and then opened it mouth to blast him. He took a direct hit by three of Sans’s blasters.
Sans narrowly took a hit from a pipe cane, short cutting out of the way. Stretch short-cut behind his counterpart to turn him blue and fill him full of bones like a pin cushion on the floor. Suddenly Dusty Sans kneed him and sent purple bones at him, only to be blocked and counter attacked by Red.
Red, no longer finding any need to hold back, unleashed a volley of red bones at all of them and blasters. Coupled with Sans keeping them pinned with blue magic and Stretch adding in his own moves of magic handcuffs on them, the three enemies took a heavy blow.
When the light from the attacks disappeared, Sans dashed to a shelf looking for a machine that was made to be like a magic limiter. He snatched it up to use on the dangerous enemies, first being his own counterpart. “Hold still Dusty.” He growled as he activated it, a white light turned on at the top indicating it worked, considering no purple bones had showed up again. Although his miscreant smile hadn’t dimmed. Sans went to Stretch’s counterpart, spots of soot around his form as he dueled with Stretch until Sans managed to subdue him too.
Sans though was suddenly shoved out of the way by Red. When he looked back he saw Red being held up by his throat again from his counterpart. Red summoned bones that was driven through him. The counterpart merely grunted and busted out laughing at the attack that would have normally dusted a monster. Red was roughly thrown at Sans before he could use the device on him. The counterpart roughly jerked left and right to break off the magic bones. “Weak ass. After what I’ve been through, the Bane of everyone’s existence I became…yer gonna have ta do better than that.” Red and yellow magic burst fro his sockets and joints of his phalanges. He punched through the imprisonments of Stretch and Sans’s counterparts and turned to the other three. Sans’s counterpart cleared the way to the door and opened it, Stretch’s used the device to limit Stretch, Red, and Sans’s magic now. Red’s counter part, looked to be fighting with himself of whether to dust them or just leave until he was ushered by the other two. He growled some and his shoulders dropped as he let out a shuddering breath. “heh….maybe the real surface, will be a lot of fun.” He rumbled before the three escaped quickly out of the lab.
Sans, unable to use short cuts now, scrambled to get up, a quick glance at Stretch and Red that they were good enough to get up, and he bolted out of the lab after the others. He could sense some lingering magic at the front door and ran outside. “No..” He breathed out when his fears were realized. Dropping to his knees in despair, he punched the ground and went still in a lifeless, eye lightless stillness.
“Hey.” Red was there beside him. “This is all our faults. And it’s no time ta let yerself Fall down.”
Stretch, who finally caught up, looked around habitually and heaved a heavy sigh. “The next thing we can do now is let the others know, and some of the higher monster authorities. Hopefully they won’t cause any trouble.”
“You kiddin’? We can’t go tellin’ them we fucked up again and released some dangerous ass monstas’ loose on the city.” Red grumped.
“We won’t have to tell them how they ended up here, just that we ‘discovered’ some evil versions of us.” Stretch answered. He looked down at Sans who had not moved and kneeled down beside him. “Sans. Come on, I’ll let Ruby and his brother know, and they can get their gang to keep an eye out too.”

Sans lifted his skull some, taking in his companions’ words. “Y-yeah. Everythings’, still okay.” He finally stood back up on his now slipper less feet. “Just wait till they do cross a line, and I will personally make sure they regret every minute of it.” He said in an uncharacteristically menacing tone.

Chapter Text

Working on the bathhouse was both fun and exhausting. Alicia didn’t want t admit that the long hours were making the project lose it’s charm for her, but it gave her something to do and getting to hang out with friends again was something to look forward to.
She had noticed that Sans was much more reclusive than before, Red seemed more grumpy, and Stretch was almost always seen with a cigarette or a sucker in his mouth.
Alicia had timed her breakfast making endeavors around where most of them would be gone by the morning t go to work and she would have the kitchen to herself. She often made pancakes that would end up being green after she added all her ‘mom tricks’ of superfood and protein powder in it just for herself since Lion wanted to cook for him and his brother.
Though sometimes, Red’s routine was unpredictable, and he would end up walking in on her one person breakfast party with questions. “Why the hell ar’ those things green?”
“Because I added a green super foods powder for extra nutritional boost.” Alicia answered. “It hasn’t altered the flavor at all. You can try one if you’d like?”
Red looked back at the plate with the remaining pancakes as if they were going to jump up and bite him, but he relented and tried one anyway, holding it hotdog style and pouring a little syrup in the middle of it. Next stuffing half of it in his mouth with that big sharky bite of his. His already round cheeks now a little more puffy from the food tumbling about in his mouth. Alicia watched him and waited for some sort of reaction. “Well? Do you like it? You can have more if you want.”
Red side glanced at her for a second before he grabbed a plate and piled more of the pancakes on it with a drizzling of syrup. “They’re still weird, but the taste is alright.” He finally said. “No magic?”
“ ‘No magic?’ In my pancakes? Why would I make them magical?” Alicia asked in confusion.
“Fer monsta’s ta eat. Gotta have some magic ingredients in it too fer us ta eat regularly.” Red answered.
“Ohhh.” Alicia hummed out loud.
“Ya mean ya’ve been feeding the spoopy freaks regular food this whole time?” Red gave her a look between confused and grimacing.
“No, er…well I would use what’s in the fridge or pantry here. Which means at least some of the food is magical right?” Alicia asked, glancing at the fridge and pantry habitually. “Well it’s not like I cook every meal for them anyway. So I’m sure I’m not…making them miss their daily dose of magic.”
Red didn’t make any other noise, not even a grunt about that.
“Have you had a chance to try out the new bathhouse? It’s finally finished.” Alicia started again.
Red looked at her now like she just said the weirdest thing and, it honestly did make her question her words now.
“Yeh all actually made a real bath house huh?” He started grinning and odd smile. “Whatcha gonna do in there? Try some new places fer freak fun?”
“They’re not freaks just because they’ve accomplished a project you didn’t think of.” Alicia answered in a matter-of-fact tone. “Bear and Lion are quite efficient craftsmen.”
“Bear and Lion?” Red scoffed incredulously. “The hell kinda names are those?”
“Bear is fitting for Axe, I find. He is as strong as one, knows when to be gentle and when to be fierce. And Lion is fitting for Trap, because he is fearless and temperate.” Alicia softly explained.
Red watched her with a surprising frown, as if he wanted to shout at her about something. His fists shook and he scoffed loudly again. “Whateva’. You’ll learn eventually.” He said and stormed off.
Alicia watched him go and a small frown on her face appeared. She just couldn’t figure him out. One minute it seemed they were getting along well enough and the next he’s prickly and angry again. The guy had some issues she was both curious and cautious about.

Today she decided to explore the perimeter of the property. She cleaned up her mess and went for a nice walk around the place towards the wooded areas.
Alicia quite often liked the woods area the most. The quiet, the peace, the way the trees sort of hid someone from the world. It’s just felt like it was really her element the most. She was actually happy at seeing that the manor they lived in had a nice forest. She walked through it silently as she explored the place, identifying a few sounds of wildlife or botany she happened to pass by.
What she had not expected to find though, was a trap set, and a painful one at that. Some type of foothold trap that clamped around her leg. Thank God though it didn’t look like the typical bear trap or she may not have had a leg anymore, but it still bit into her and it had some type of polished red rocks around it the size of rhinestones. Alicia stared at it for who knows how long trying to make heads or tails of this thing. She reached down, fidgeting with the mechanism to get it to unlock which also wasn’t all too easy. Though at least the mechanics were understandable. “What the heck is this thing? Who the heck bedazzles a foot trap?” she complained to herself as she tried to pry it open. She worked on it for some long minutes before finally opening it enough to inch her foot out. In her frustration she hurled the thing at a tree. Though she also decided to pick it up to show Sans about it too. They should all be made aware of this if they weren’t already.
“A MEASELY HUMAN?!” Some other angry voice barked at her making her flail her arms wildly in her paranoia.
There all of sudden was another pair of skeletons, dressed in a them of purple and black, one with an impassive stare and the other with an irritable leer.
“Uh. Hey.” Alicia said trying to hide her wince from her leg.
“You idiot human! You’ve ruined my trap now.” The shorter one barked. “Mutt, subdue her already so we can take her in.”
“Defaque?!” Alicia yelped. The taller one didn’t hesitate and he suddenly ‘blipped’ beside her, his hands suddenly on her. Just like the definition of impulse would imply, that’s exactly what happened next. Alicia turned and smacked the tall one in his face with a backhand and when he flinched back, she slammed the trap on his shoulder. To his credit, he hardly let out much more than a pained growl as he stumbled with it attached to him now.
“Mutt!” the other shouted running forth. Alicia didn’t stay to see if he was running at her or the other. She bolted back to the house as fast as her injured leg would allow her to hobble, which wasn’t very far or fast. She tried sucking it up and powering through, however even if she could ignore the pain to an extent, she could not make the leg go faster. “Help!” she tried calling out as she stubbornly pressed forward.
A wall of purple bones shot up in front of her and around her, successfully caging her in. Behind her, a very pissed looking skeleton stalked forth. He summoned another sharp bone in his hand. “Humans. Such a nuisance. I’ve done the world a favor clearing it of the space your corrupted soul takes from us!”
Alicia gritted her teeth and in another impulsive move, tried to lunge forth and get out of the U shaped bone cage. The shorter purple skelton charged forth about to land a hard hit, when suddenly another set of some deep red colored bones, oddly shaped and glowing on one end, blocked the angry skeleton from her, She scrambled away some castin a confused look at them as the angry skeleton growled and chopped away at them. More showed up and had the glowing ends pointed at him like the barrels of rifles.
“Now now master Black. There is no need for such violence upon a helpless human, injured at that.” Yet another voice interrupted the scuffle.
Alicia whirled around to see another, lean skeleton about the same height as Red. He had a very ambitious smile and elegant stance about him as his hands were clasped behind his back. His neatly crips black and gold suit with a long red bandanna gave him a very soldier-like demeanor as he kept his magic attacks between Alicia and the angry skeleton just long enough to add his body in between now. “ Are you alright madam?” he asked over his shoulder at Alicia.
Alicia though, was a little too dumbfounded to answer.
“Get out of my way Wine! This filth is getting what she deserves!”
“I think not Master Black. Let’s just take her back to the house, where we can truly have everything sorted hm? We mustn’t be late!” the newest skeleton, Wine said. “I highly suggest you agree to my terms, your brother depends on it.” He casually gestured to the far right. Alicia and Black looked over to see the other purple skeleton, hands in the air and holding still as another yellow and black skeleton standing to the side of some black and gold, machine-dragon head floating in above him and it’s maw pointed at the purple one who still had the trap on his shoulder.
The angry skeleton, Black swore under his breath and dismissed his attacks. “Fine old man!” He stormed back towards his partner.
Wine turned to regard Alicia as he held out a hand to help her. “Madam? If you please, use me to lean on and I will help you back to our friend’s home. There I shall initiate medical aid to your leg if you’ll allow?”
Alicia reluctantly took his offered hand to get up, testing her injured leg if it could take her weight. “Uh, I actually already have a home, just right over there.” She used her chin to point at the manor in the distance.
“Hmm? Well fancy that.” Wine mused with a smile. He walked with her, much more sturdier looking than his appearance says, as he escorted her back to the manor. He side glanced her when he saw her eyeing the other three that walked or stomped along with them. “Ah yes. The lad in the yellow pants is my younger brother Coffee. Beside him is Cash in the purple jacket and his brother here is Black. Apologies for the rather, distasteful greeting. You see, we have been notified of some dangerous people around the area, so we have started taking precautions of catching them. That trap for instance, it’s not just a foot snare but a magic nulling feature on it too, hence why Cash was not able to shortcut away so easily.” Wine prattled on as if that simple explanation was excuse enough for the attack on her life…
Well, maybe the trap itself wasn’t so bad, but the brashness of Black and Cash’s desire to end her, oh they were on her shit list for that. Right now though, Alicia wanted to control the adrenaline rush before she made the same mistake due to her own impulses. “Is that what the red bedazzles on the trap are for?”
“Bedazzles? Oh yes the red stones.” Wine answered as they made it back on the backyard property. “What’s this? Axe and Trap have a new project of their own?” He said as they approached.

“That’s a bath house and utilities, for both bigger facilities and extra storage.” Alicia answered.

“Sounds delightful.” Wine grinned as she helped her up the stairs and to the back door.
To Alicia’s surprise, all of them just came right into the house as if they lived there too. Wine helped her to the large living room.
“Hey everyone.” Sans said as he came around the corner. Alicia had a concerned gaze at him now. Somehow he had dark circles under his sockets, his shoulders sagged a little more and he just all around looked miserable. Behind him was Papyrus, not looking like he suffered from anything but more calm about his boundless energy.
“HELLO HUMAN ALICIA. HAVE YOU ALSO COME TO JOIN THE METING?” Papyrus asked her with his bright, kind smile.
“What?” Black yelped. “I was not told we have yet another annoying human here. Does she actually live here?” Black added.
“Yes. I live here.” Alicia quipped. At which Black now made a disapproving frown. “What happened to the first human?”
“She lives here too.” Alicia answered simply. I didn’t know you were about to have a meeting. I’ll just see myself out.” Alicia slowly tried getting up and testing her leg again. Though Wine protested to wait until he and Coffee saw about her leg.
Coffee, being the quiet sort, came over with a slight blush across his nasal ridge, glancing once more at her as if wordlessly asking permission to raise her pant leg. A subtle green glow emitted from his hand as he ghosted it over her leg.
“HOW DID YOU GET INJURED HUMAN?” Papyrus asked.
“The dolt fell into one of my traps.” Black answered as he held it up. “And she broke it too.” He said in disdain.
“You should not put tarps where the adversary already knows to avoid. It’s such a waste of time.” Wine said.
“As if a washed up old captain would have much to say? Who’s army tore themselves apart.” Black growled.
“and…where’s yours now?” Wine asked calmly.
Black growled and stepped forth, suddenly Coffee stood upright in an instant ready to defend his brother, causing Cash to get off the wall and stand at the ready too.
“Hey hey, we’re not really about to have a fight in the house?” Alicia asked although wasn’t regarded much.
“Okay guys! Keep a lid on it for now.” Sans intervened before there was a shouting match. “I didn’t ask you all to come so you could fight each other.” He rubbed his face with a sigh.
He looked once at Alicia, who in turn made a small smile to him. “Once yer leg is okay, Would you mind giving us the living room? It shouldn’t take too long.”
“Sure.” She turned her attention now back to Coffee. Her leg wasn’t even showing a bruise after what he was doing. “Wow. Thank you Coffee. Looks like nothing ever even happened.”
The mousy skeleton raised his head back up to her, a shy smile on his face now at her. “Healing…magic.”
“Thank you for the healing magic Coffee.” Alicia said softly.
The quiet skeleton’s braced face lifted upwards in a timid smile. He stood up again when her leg was all corrected, Alicia following suit. She noticed then the awkward silence that fell over the room when all eye lights were on here, some kind but all asking the same muted question, ‘will you leave now?’
“Right, goodbye.” Alicia said and quickly left up the stairs to her room. Up there, boredom quickly fell over her and she tried to pass the time by setting up her room to be more like a studio apartment. One of the unpacked boxes held a single burner with some plates, couple of pots and a pan. Some canned goods or MREs to try. She made herself a cup of hot tea to enjoy while watching a show.
In the middle of it, she heard the familiar echo of Jada’s voice downstairs. Peeking through her door and down the stairs, she eavesdropped on the voices. Tip toeing her way down, she listened as Red and Edge, along with the newest skeletons all bantering and playing catch up like they haven’t seen each other in a long time.
“..Just warning ya Jada. There’s three others just like us, but they’re dangerous for humans and monsters alike so be really careful if ya see us and we’re acting a little off.”
“Oh Sansy. You could be over reacting, maybe once they see how great the surface is then they won’t be so bad.”
“That doesn’t mean ignore my warning.” Sans said irritably.
“I’m not ignoring it, I just don’t need you over worrying about things again.” Jada argued. “I mean all of you had a change of heart when you spent a little time up here. I’m just trying to see the good in everyone too.”
Alicia made her way at the base of the stairs at this point with her empty cup in hand, walking to the kitchen to wash it. “Hey, just came to wash my cup.” She greeted as she went to go do so.
Sans let another soft sigh out behind her like he was just done with everything. It made things feel more tense now, but she tried to tamp it down, “How’s it going?” She asked Jada.

Jada flashed a big smile of her own. “Girl it was busy at work today. Glad I had an early shift though. I get to relax with my boyfriends. Come on Sansy. Let’s you and I spend the day together and take a load off?” Jada tried to coerce Sans. The skeleton sat down now. “Yeah. Maybe yer right. No sense in stressing myself out more. You guys, yer welcome to stay if you’d like. Thanks for coming on the short notice.” He said to Cash, Black, Wine and Coffee.
Alicia felt pretty bad for Sans at that point. He looked and acted as if he was the guy carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders over some problem she was not privy to, and so she couldn’t really offer much to help anyway. She did notice Black’s eyelights glancing at her once and so went for an attempt at trying to make amends. “I’m sorry I broke your trap.”
“You should be.” Black huffed.
Luckily Alicia expected some kind of rude snipe like that and so took no offence. She said it where multiple people could hear it and that was good enough.
“So tell me Miss Alicia, how long have you been staying here and what do you do?” Wine chose to take over before things got any worse.
“I’ve been here for a little over a month now. Jada and I are high school friends. And I’m still out searching for a job right now.” Alicia answered.
“Is that right? Would you have any experience in retail? I could use a little help in my shop if you are interested.” Wine offered.
“Really? I’d love top come check it out.” Alicia replied in a hopeful smile.
“Certainly.” Wine smiled. “Just look up StarStyles here in town.” He informed her.
“Thank you. I’ll come check it out soon.” Alicia said with a grateful smile at him. Wine dipped his chin in a brisk and polite acknowledgement.
Black stood up suddenly. “There is no need to be here any longer. Come Mutt, We have to fix my traps and continue our work.”
Cash wordlessly got up to follow him as swiftly as they came.
“It was nice meting you!” Alicia called after them. Of course she didn’t get a respond from either of them. She knew that she wouldn’t, so why did she still do it? Old habits die hard maybe.

Alicia’s eyes find Coffee who sat there, deeply focused on a game he was playing on a switch he must have ad on him. His cheeks and nasal ridge started to blush again as if he could feel her eyes on him without looking. She wanted to ease the tension there. “Your name is Coffee? Is that because you like hot or iced coffee?”
He looked shyly to her. “I-Iced…coffee.”
“Cool. I like both, though I do love a hot cup in the morning, with some biscoff cookies to dip in. Actually there is a kind I bought from the store the other day, would you like to try it with me?”
Coffee’s sockets went a little wider like a surprised expression, then he smiled and nodded meekly.
Alicia got up, back to her room and came back with the new flavored coffee to brew. “Would you like yours iced or to try it hot?”
“Iced….please.” he said.
Within some time, Alicia made the drink and asked him how he liked it. Wine watched with an amused tilt of his head at how they interacted. He seemed pleased by his brothers’ coming out of his shell a little.
Alicia went slow and patient with Coffee seeing as he was so timid. She tried not to ask him too many questions or talk too much about her own thoughts.
When it came time to leave, Wine being ever the gentleman, bowed and kissed her hand, now making her blush. Coffee waved and made a small smile as the two exited the house to leave. Alicia escorted them to the door and closed t behind them. She thought those two were perhaps one of the coolest pairs she had ever met.
A crash and glass shattering in the kitchen jumped her out of her thoughts and she went to go check it out. In the kitchen was Edge, rubbing his head as he was kneeling just under the coffee maker. On the floor was spilled hot coffee and the now shattered coffee pitcher. “What happened? You okay?” Alicia came to check on him.
Edge whirled on her with an angry scowl. “Imbecile Human!” He screeched. “Your Neglect To Pay Attention Where Things Are Caused My Coffee Mug To Break! You Will Replace What You’ve Broken!”
“I didn’t do that!” Alicia argued. “I wasn’t even in the kitchen.”
“You Made This Disgusting Coffee And You Failed To Do Even The Simplest Task In Making Sure It Was Put Back Properly!” Edge snapped back. He snatched a kitchen towel off a rack to clean off any coffee that was still spilled on his head, neck and scarf. “You Will Owe Me A New Scarf As Well If This Does Not Come Out!”
“That wasn’t my fault.” Alicia said again. “I put everything back how it’s supposed to be.”
Sans had shown up now at the commotion. “What’s going on here?”
“This Idiot Human Owes Me For Her Negligence!” Edge yelled. Sans looked to Alicia in question.
“I. Didn’t. Do. Anything. I was seeing Wine and Coffee out and I heard the crash.” Alicia stood her ground.
Sans had this dead panned look on his face now. “Just pay for what you broke Alicia.”
“I didn’t break anything.”
“But you used it last and Edge wouldn’t break his own machines.” Sans quipped back and turned away to leave again as if that was the end of it.
Edge had a humorless smirk on his face as he took off his scarf. He turned his leer back to Alicia when the two locked eyes again. “For the sake of peace I’ll pay this time, but don’t get used to blaming things on me.”
“Do Not Threaten Me Human. You Are In No Position To Give Me Orders Here. You Can Get Kicked Out Any Day.” Edge growled right back.

Little did either of them know, they had both opened up a window of opportunity that the real culprit would be taking advantage of. Neither of them could see the opaque, see through eyes that watched them like a sitcom, grinning and rubbing their hands together, flitting through the walls to spread the news.

Chapter Text

Alicia sighed heavily as she put in the online order for a new coffee pitcher. She still swore up and down that she put the stupid thing on right. There’s only one way to put a coffee pitcher back in it’s place!
Oh well, It’s over for now, onto bigger fish to fry. Dressing in one of her finest interview outfits, Alicia double checked herself in the mirror to make sure she looked the part of a CEO…though of course that was quite the over exaggeration. Still, you look good, you feel good right?
Trotting downstairs, she made a quick nod to Blue and Russ who were in the kitchen, casting impassive or curious looks her way as she left. With the address keyed into her phone, she was off to go meet Wine at his store. She tried not to get her hopes up too much, knowing that he was probably going to pay some minimum wage to her if it was a retail associate position.
She finally reached the store that was Wine’s quite fancy boutique. It seemed to be a successful one too judging by how much he had in stock and the people in there already.
Wine seemed a little over excited to interview her, and by that, he had a table set up with their favorite drinks on it and cute sandwiches prepared at a table. It felt more like a tea party than an interview. Yet it as so pleasant, she almost forgot to remain professional. Wine hired her on the spot, to her shock again, but certainly not complaining.
Wine, was as professional as any of the best managers, with the regal air of a king or his general, yet the kindness that seemed to help people open up a little bit more. His people skills were on the level of talk show hosts, in Alicia’s humble opinion. When he understood how best Alicia learned, he adjusted and communicated to her. When he wasn’t around to ask, Coffee was there to either write or speak very softly to her. Retail was something Alicia was already familiar with and so it mostly a matter of learning the merchandise and the cash register.
Her pay was decent, and the drive to work not long at all, so there were conveniences, but, she was still looking for another part time job on the side to fill in the extra hours and maybe gain some benefits.
“Does Wine make every one of these clothing pieces himself?” Alicia asked Coffee in a gentle and incredulous way.
The lanky and quiet skeleton shook his head and wrote ‘He designs them and sends it to a manufacturer who makes the different sizes.’
“Wow, that’s still really cool.” She said softly.
Coffee ‘Mm-Hmmed’ in an enthusiastic agreement. ‘he may ask you to wear better clothes.’
“Better?” Alicia quirked her brows, looking down at her T-shirt and cargo shorts. “Something wrong with my clothes now?”
Coffee’s sockets widened and he flailed his hands a little with tiny whimpers before writing, ‘No! It’s practical, but it’s not representative of his boutique.’
“Oh…I gotta get dolled up.” Alicia smirked in the half joke. “Fair enough.” She agreed as she set about the new blouses on the rack. “Does he make you model some of his clothes?”
Coffee blushed a little bit by that and nodded. ‘All the time. You should expect it to happen to you soon too. He likes live models in his newest styles.’
“For real? He’s gonna ask us to show off his newest clothes instead of mannequins?” Alicia smiled to him.
Coffee’s head bobbed in another confident motion of affirmation.
“Hey, are you two whispering about me over there? Already spreading rumors about the boss hmm?” Wine suddenly came from around the register desk with a box in his hand.
“Only good things.” Alicia smiled.
“No.”
“Hey, Well you’re his brother, you can say anything you want.” Alicia was still grinning at Coffee.
The younger skeleton merely shrugged innocently and smiled back.
“I might have known.” Wine muttered in light humor as he broke open the box. “Will you also restock these once you’re finished?” he said to Alicia.
“Yes sir.”
Alicia spent her morning and afternoon being trained on all of Wine’s rules and preferences when it came to his store. She was familiar with retail sure, but the whole concept of selling fashion in particular was a new ball game for her. Wine and Coffee also had their own nerdy streak, with clothes inspired by outfits of popular movies or games. They were different enough not to worry about copyrights of course. Customers of all ages came in ogling all the unique styles and merch that they had. For the most part, it was Coffee that ran the store when his brother was busy with his main job.

“That shall be enough for today. Do you prefer the morning shift or evening shifts?” Wine asked her.
“I like morning shifts myself.”
“Very well. That shall be your default here unless I have need of you on a different shift.” Wine agreed. He went to the desk to write down a few notes to himself. “Be here same time tomorrow. I should have a schedule worked out for you by then if I am no too busy.”
“Sounds fantastic. See you tomorrow!” she greeted and waving to Coffee as she passed him by.” See ya later!”
Coffee smiled shyly with a sleepy wave. “Bye.” He said softly.
With a happy spring in her step, she got in her car and decided to celebrate with some good ole boba tea again.
It wasn’t a far drive, but the parking lot was packed, making her having to park down the strip center.
She liked to celebrate the little things any chance she got. It did make the tough things seem smaller for her. She was texting Lion that she got the job. He texted back in all caps how happy he was for her and then one selfie of him and Bear smiling at his camera. He liked to text selfies of himself expressing whatever emotion he wanted to convey instead of using emojis. Or sometimes if he was really miffed with his brother, he would draw on his sleeping face and text that. Alicia loved all of them and she saved them in a separate file on her phone.
On her way walking passed an alley, she almost dismissed this big hulking figure in black for nothing until she froze, back pedaled and saw Red.
Looking pissed as ever as he glared up at this very tall guy, clearly a monster in a very nice suit.
She couldn’t make out exactly what the tall guy was rumbling out, but it got Red all riled up.
“Go blow it out yer coccyx!”
“Tch. Little baby savage over here. Don’t realize yer droppin’ dimes for beef ya ain’t got no business in.” the big fancy guy said. Alicia also noticed a large red tinted cloud that wisped upwards from his face like a crimson cloud of smoke.
“Talk plain English asshole!” Red said over his shoulder as he was about to leave, but the big burly hand of the fancy-suit shot out and blocked him. “Where ya goin’? Not done with ya yet.” He was fast for a big guy. Grabbing Red by his chest and hoisting him up against the brick wall earning an audible grunt from him.
“Hey!” Alicia barked out automatically. She marched forth to a degree, glaring heatedly. “Put him down!”
The monster’s eyes flared to life in a bright red light, turning his head just a little more to look over his shoulder at her. Another skeleton with a cigar between his way-too-big sharky teeth, puffing the red smoke. Eyes looking even deeper somehow perhaps thanks to the fedora on his head. The guy’s forearm bones were thick as a metal sign pole, decorated with gold jewelry.
For a second, both he and Red had almost identical confused curiosity on their faces.
“Put him down.” Alicia repeated more calmly.
“Heh. Got yerself a new bearcat?” The big monster smiled a humorless grin. “What is it about a ridiculous little sap like you that gets the kittens?”
“Get outta here! This ain’t your concern!” Red said to Alicia.
“When he lets you go.” Alicia answered.
“Hm? Ya come to rescue yer duckling?” The big monster said as he tightened his grip on red, causing him to cry out and flail to get free.
Alicia reacted quickly and from her purse out came her own self-defense aimed at the big monster. Which to her confusion, he looked delighted.
“Oh ho HO! This doll is packin’ heat! I lllllike it!” He growled out in a rumbling purr as he rolled the L, even going so far as to wink at Alicia. He plucked Red off the wall and set him down, pretending to brush him off. “ No hard feelings ‘round here. Just a couple a ‘ole pals catchin’ up.”
“Get off me.” Red shrugged him off and walked forth. “Shouldn’ave wasted my time warnin’ you.”
The suit wearing monster only smiled amusedly at him, dabbing the ashes off his cigar as Red shoved passed Alicia. Only then did she return her pistol back to her purse, pursing her lips in uncertainty about Red. She glanced one last time at the six foot monster and made a short nod in acknowledgement, then jogged to catch up to Red. Said monster’s smile stretched a little in his own barely noticeable response.

“Red!” She called after him, though he made no move to slow down, hands shoved in his pockets. “Red, are you alright?”
“I’m fine.” He snapped. “What the hell are you doing here!? Stalking me?” he accused.
“No. I would have never known you were there if ya’ll weren’t playing so loudly.” Alicia retorted. “Who was that guy and has he been bullying you for some time?”
“None of yer business and none of yer fucking business. But now ya may have just put yerself in some real danger.” Red finally stopped to leer at her.
“No no,” Alicia started calmly under his steely gaze. “You’re supposed to say, thank you for helping me, and proceed to tell me the truth about you and him.” Alicia replied in a deadpanned manner.
Red let out an exasperated sigh as he scrubbed his face. “His name’s Magnum. But listen ta me, trust me when I say the less yeh know the better, but I will tell ya to stay as far from him as possible. He’s especially dangerous ta humans and knows how ta hide it from the law. Stay away from him, ya understand?”
“I understand.” Alicia repeated. “Does your brother know about him?”
A lower rumble of a growl emitted from his invisible throat. “Yeah he does.” He said and stepped back, shoving his hands back in his pockets and turned to walk away.
Alicia followed him as her mind tried to logify why they would talk to such a dangerous guy at all if they were aware of the dangers. She knew all the monsters in there were tougher than they looked, but Red was struggling, why did he go by himself?
“Why the hell are yeh still following me!?” Red barked suddenly, jolting her out of her thoughts.
Alicia blinked owlishly. “ Uh, well, would you like to get something to eat with me?” she stammered out quickly.
Red’s face morphed to a baffled look before his scowl was back with a humorless grin. “Sorry bucko. I ain’t fallin’ fer that. Jada’s my sweetheart, er if it’s outta pity yeh can shove it back up yer ass.”
“Chill the fuck out dude! It was just as friends!” Alicia snapped testily. Her hands thrown in the air as she back pedaled some. “You could just say no thank you next time!” She added just before turning away. The heck is wrong with people these days?! Don’t know how be nice anymore, or the difference between just having some backbone without the jerk ass attitude…
Well, she definitely knew better than to let that grouchy hedgehog ruin her day! She had some good things to be focused on. They had walked well passed the boba sop, so she back pedaled, with only a moments hesitation at wondering if she may run into that Magnum guy.
While there she also bought a simple meal and then she looked up things to do around the city, what events were around, her favorite stores, and of course, other places hiring. As much as she was sure to like her job at the boutique, she wasn’t sure if it was enough pay just yet.

Welp, after her late lunch break, and nothing more to do, she turned home. For now, she still had to use the GPS just to make sure she was going the right way around the city and neighborhood. Al of the homes still captured her admiration as she drove by, and even the manor she was staying at, she could hardly believe she was staying there and for so cheap! Now, the next challenge it seemed was to prove that she wasn’t a shady gal and could be a good friend, and maaaaybe, it might turn out to be a slice of paradise. She unlocked the front door, walking in casually, the TV playing some show in the living room, but all she could hear really was Jada’s voice and Razz.

“Come one please? We haven’t spent much time together in, I don’t know how long. Too long!”
“I’m terribly sorry dearest, I have explained to you how demanding my job is.”
“Can’t you request some days off? Vacation days? Sick days? Anything?” Jada whined behind Razz as he slipped on his uniform jacket.
“My dear, we have talked about this already. I have given you every spare moment of my time already. Please do not make this tougher than it already is.” Razz said as he turned to spare her one more glance.
Jada’s pout was accentuated by her shoulders dropping in defeat.
Razz’s skull dipped in the slightest of nods before turning for the door.
Alicia, who stepped aside, gave a weak wave in greeting, which, of course, was not returned by the solemn monster as he exited the house. Alicia looked back to Jada with a soft expression.
Jada though, didn’t let the discontent show on her face much at seeing Alicia was looking right at her.
“He’s such a hard working monster. I guess I shouldn’t bug him about more time together if it already has him feeling bad.” She said casually and smirked. “Did you get a job with Wine after all?”
“Oh yeah. Sure did. You ever been to their business before? He’s got a lot of cool accessories and clothes going on.” Alicia replied as she walked with Jada to the kitchen.
“You know I sure haven’t. Actually I thought it was kind of creepy.” Jada answered. “ I know it’s hard to tell ages with skeletons who don’t have skin for wrinkles, but he’s actually an old guy. His brother is more young adult but like, and old guy that runs a boutique that has a larger section for girls than guys? Kiiinda weird.” She said as she went to grab a soda from the fridge.
“I thought you said you never been.” Alicia pointed out softly.
“Not me no, but Sans has and that’s what he says. Razz and Russ did too at some time. I don’t want to go in case he starts looking at me weird.”
“Hmm. Well I never got that vibe from him.” Alicia assured.
“Maybe he is just hiding it for now or he has particular tastes?” Jada shrugged some after a pull of her drink.
Alicia snorted in dry humor at that. She looked over to the sink where she saw a pile of dirty dishes there that didn’t look too difficult, so she went over and started washing them. Do Razz, Russ, AND Sans have the same opinion of Wine?”

Jada sat at the bar. “I don’t know what Russ ever thinks about anything. He’s like a rock sometimes. You would think he’s as dumb as one if you didn’t know him any better. He’s actually a genius in my opinion. Sans doesn’t have much of one I guess, and Razz calls him a wash-up trying to make something of what’s left of himself.”
“Dude that’s harsh.” Alicia grimaced as she washed the dishes.
“Razz said he used to be what Razz is now for the Underground, and he didn’t stop because he retired. He got fired for some huge mistake he made back in the underground. I don’t really know much more than that.”
“How sad. But at least he and his brother have found some joy up here on the surface it seems.” Alicia said.
“If being a creeper is considered something to be happy about.” Jada rose a skeptical brow at Alicia. “Try not to be oblivious to the bad signs just because you don’t want to believe them.” She advised.
Alicia made a face down at the sudsy dishes remaining in the sink. That warning was an obvious statement to her and her experience, but instead of scoffing it, she decided to just take it as a reminder. Maybe Wine did have a creepy side, but if he was professional around her then it wasn’t really her business right?
“Nyeh? You Did The Dishes?” Papyrus’s exclamation violently disrupted the silence in the kitchen. Alicia would have thought she was in trouble with that tonality.
“Yes.” Alicia said, turning around to see the tall, shocked skeleton.
“That Is, Nice Of You Human.” Papyrus replied almost sounding crestfallen.
“What’s a matter? Did I mess up somewhere?” Alicia asked at seeing his face.
Papyrus jumped and his hands waved fervently in front of him. “No Not At All! I Was Just Not Expecting Anyone But Blue, Razz, Edge Or The Great Papyrus To Keep Things Tidy. Thank You Human Alicia.”
“Heh. You’re quite welcome.” Alicia replied with a small smile, slightly unamused that only half the house literally are the ones that keep up with maintenance while the others, can’t even be bothered for simple tasks like dishes. The other half better at least handle all the bills right? She really had very little patience for that kind of selfish laziness, but she wisely kept that opinion to herself. It wasn’t her home after all.
“Well! That Gives Me Time To Go Start The Next Chore On My List!” Papyrus grinned. “Blue Is Going To Cook Dinner Tonight.” He informed Jada, who had a slight frown on her face until Papyrus addressed her, then plastered a smile that might have seemed fake.
“Great. Are we going to have tacos again?” She asked in a dry tone.
“He Said He Was Open For Any Suggestions If You’d Like To Make Any.” Papyrus replied without missing a beat like he was half expecting her to say that. “So Make Your Requests Known As Soon As You Can!” He energetically cheered as he turned on his heel back out the kitchen.
Jada didn’t look like she shared the same sentiment though, getting up now to leave the kitchen as well.
Now finishing up the dishes, Alicia contemplated just how much Papyrus had to clean today and maybe she might just get the whole kitchen done? Sure why not? Then she could go relax in a bathhouse as a reward! Just thinking about that put a smile on her face and she went to grab some more cleaning supplies in the ever stocked cleaning closet. She put on some podcast she liked listening to on her headphones and went around the kitchen counterclockwise to start cleaning the various stations about it. Wipe the counters, clean the stains, wash any utensils left out, re organize any mess and of course sweep and possibly mop. She heard the front door open a couple of times, one with the grumpy hedgehog casting a frown at her, grabbing mustard from the fridge and leaving. The second was Russ also casting a side glance at her and nothing more as he passed into a different hallway.
As she was sweeping up the floor, squatted down to get it all in the dust pan, she was too into her show to notice Blue standing there watching her from the edge of the table. She had even giggled to herself out loud at the show and probably sounded like a crazy person to him if he was standing there the whole time. Alicia made an awkward smile at him and put her show on pause. “Heya Blue. How’s it going?”
“Greetings.” Blue answered, his smile a little bigger. “I Didn’t Know You Were Cleaning The Kitchen Today.”
“Heh, a spur of the moment thing. I heard you were cooking so if it’s time to start, I’ll move. Pretty much done anyway.” Alicia said dumping the dust pan in the trash. “What are you cooking today?”
“Ah, I Was thinking that human dish called Fajitas.” Blue answered as he came in and looked around till he got to the kitchen. “Thank You For Giving Me A Clean Kitchen To Cook In.” He smiled brightly up to her as he put food items on the counter.
“You’re very welcome Blue.” She answered before leaving to put the supplies up and her reward. Going up the stairs t grab her gear for the bathhouse, she went quickly back down and to it, changing into her swimsuit which was a one piece and a pair of shorts, and coming around the wall. She stopped short though at seeing Bear and Lion had already beaten her to her idea, She snickered at them. “You two look like you’re about to melt.”
Bear’s head lazily lulled to the side to look at her with a smile that also looked like it was going to melt right off his face. “Hey Tiger.”
“Ah! Human! Come to join us?” Lion said, a dusting of a grayish orange colored his cheeks and he looked away again. Aw, poor guy. She knew the bathhouse was more of a shared place like any swimming pool, and she wondered what the swet skelly would do if her or Jada walked in here with a two piece. Slowly she lowered herself in the hot pool and already sighing in contentment. “Peeerfect.” She found a spot to lounge back on. “Soo, What did ya’ll do today?”
“The usual.”
“Hmph. That is not something I wish to be the usual.” Lion grumbled.
“Hm? What happened?” Alicia asked automatically.
“We went up to the mountain today. Sometimes we like to hunt there. Instead of game however, we were nearly chased off the mountain by a naga.” Lion answered.
“A what?”
“And my brother here thought he could take them on his own.”
“I knew the two of us could.”
“I told you I wasn’t going to fight it before it even attacked us, and you blatantly disregarded it’s warnings about their territory boundaries. Lion said with no real irritation behind the accusation.
Alicia’s mouth was slight jawed. “You mean to tell me there’s giant monster snakes out there in the mountain still? I was wanting to go camping there one day!”
“Ah that sounds like a great idea!” Lion suddenly flashes a smile to her.
“Ya like to get away from people too?” Bear smiled.
“Occasionally yes. Not going on a naga’s territory just to do that though.” Alicia lightly teased.
“Aww. Just some boring, mowed down spot where lots of other humans have been. Where’s the fun in that?” Bear chuckled.
As the three shared stories and jokes, Alicia was beginning to accept that maybe these guys running into odd trouble really was the usual. Her mind flashed back to the rich ruffian that Red delt with, and now there’s territorial nagas.
A smirk came to her lips when her mind when she imagined a Naga giving the ruffian a big spook in an act of karma. That’d be the day.

When they were done and now semi melted from the nice bath, Alicia climbed out and went to a stall to get changed for bed. “I think I’ll just watch some show and go to bed ealy tonight. I got work tomorrow. So see you both later.” She said, feeling all warm and fuzzy now, she went up and gave them each a hug. “Hugs for Lion.” She said as he chuckled softly. “Hugs for Bear.” She said as he gently hugged back with an endearing sort of surprise by it.
And then off back to the house to get a cup of tea going and a show in the second living room. It didn’t seem like to much was on, maybe a historical docuseries for now to lull her to sleep.
She wasn’t sure how much time and passed, sipping at her tea and reveling in the warm comfort of a long job well done, but her eyes got heavy real quick, leaning on the armrest of the couch as she got all snuggly comfy.

“HUMAN!”
Alicia’s eyes opened so fast that they stung and she sat up rubbing her left eye to relieve some of it’s painful sting. “Wut…”
She felt the angry energy before even having to see the source. “Human scum! Explain yourself!”
“What!?” she whirled to scowl at Black for the foul mood he just instantly put her in. “The hell are you talking about!?”
Razz, who glared back with all the intensity of a deep sea dragon fish. “You know damn well what! Your carelessness and disrespect has broken my bust!” He leered up at her with the most angry blue eyes she had ever seen. Behind him around the corner, Russ was peeking at them, though whether out of curiosity or to defend his brother, Alicia wasn’t sure. She couldn’t help right now but to stare at Razz like he wasn’t speaking English to her.
Razz’s fists shook with rage like he was at any second about to unleash it on her or something around him. He pointed down the hall where porcelain pieces lay on the hardwood floor.
She actually had never noticed there even was a bust there.
“That bust was a gift from the queen I serve herself. Irreplaceable with rare material you’d never have heard of, ignorant ingrate…..HOW DARE YOU DEFILE IT!?” It looked like red steam was coming off of his body.
“I never touched that bust. Why are you automatically accusing me?” Alicia retorted, but everything in her system was standing on edge now like yelling to back away, yet an ornery side of her demanding she stay her ground. Which was fine until she saw that steam gather and take the form of…a scythe.
Now her feet moved, backing out of the living room. “I didn’t touch your vase Razz, but I’ll help you find out what happened.” She tried.
The monster was beyond reasoning as he lifted his scythe up and let out a guttural sort of screech. As soon as that magical blade was up though, Alicia turned tail and ran. “GET BACK HERE!”

“No hoo hoo way.” Alicia zoomed around the house, which would have been funny had it not been due to a sharp blade chasing her. Her movements were clumsily and haphazard now, like a dog trying to get traction on polished floor. Behind her, all kinds of colorful insults thrown at her. She wouldn’t be able to make it up the stairs fast enough to get her own baton or to safety, the other option was lose him enough to get out of the house entirely. So she did that, Razz’s ire echoing behind her with the violent sounds of him bumping into the wall or his scythe. The first floor was alive with noises and voices as many people were speaking at the same time. In her desperation to have something, anything to defend herself, she grabbed a long screwdriver sitting on a shelf and in the kitchen, she grabbed a steak knife. Not sure how either of those two could hold up against a scythe but, it was better than nothing entirely. The second living area and foyer was where all the commotion came from.
Sans, Blue, Stretch, Russ, Razz, and Red were all there, scattered about in what looked like a stand off or a referee.
“RUSS GET THAT SCUM!”
“Don’t you make a move.”
“The fuck’s goin’ on with this!?”
“Everyone Stop Already! This Is No Way To Behave!”

Alicia stood watching everyone in shock, her brain trying to keep up and make suggestions all at the same time. Should she try to defend herself again? Should she sit quietly and let them all calm down? Or maybe just GTFO right now to Bear and Lion and come back later?
The crowd got rowdier again when all eye lights were on her, Razz marching forth to get to her again, being shielded by his brother from Stretch trying to stop him. Magic fizzled in the air, Alicia tensed and slowly raised her hands defensively glancing for the front door and the back door. She saw Sans’s eye lights suddenly disappear in his sockets.

“That’s enough!” Sans of all people suddenly bellowed out louder than any of them, the magic in the room felt stronger but different. Alicia felt some pressure in her ribcage area that tightened some and started pulling her down to the floor. Looking up she saw that the same effect was on everyone except Sans who stood tall his hands out and motioned downwards, hands slightly aglow with blue and his left socket like a blue and slight yellowish flame in it. Needless to say he was the cause of this.
“No one’s hurting anyone. All of you drop your weapons. Now.” Sans growled out in a much deeper voice. Alicia looked up, watching him look from razz to her, his scary leer lingering on her a little longer. Which confused her more than anything. She wasn’t the one that initiated this! And was she really all that intimidating with a screwdriver and kitchen knife compared to a magical monster with scythes and bones?! Still, she complied, putting the knife and screwdriver to the side on the floor. (the counter was out of reach.)
Sans finally looked away back to Razz, and after a few more stubborn seconds, he finally dismissed his own magical weapons. Once he knew everyone had been subdued, Sans released the magical oppression he had on everyone.
Blue shot him a pout as he adjusted his shirt but said nothing. Yeah it probably was unnecessary to subdue him.
Alicia straightened up now, watching them all warily. Razz growled and stormed out of the house to the front door, slamming it closed.
“Did you break that bust?” Sans asked Alicia, his voice returned to normal, his eye lights back, but his overall expression still serious.
“No I did not. I’ve got no reason to and I’m not a child. I’ve been on the couch watching a series and I dozed off on it.” Alicia said sternly, trying to remain as calm as she could. Sans stared at her for another heartbeat before sighing tiredly.
“Ya did break my bro’s coffee mug.” Red threw in, adding more gas to the fire.
“No I did not either, I got him a new one anyway out of consideration.” Alicia frowned at him now. “I haven’t broken anything in this house, I don’t overstep anything on purpose.” Despite the sincere passion behind her defense, nobody looked like they believed her. Some even looked at her with, pity?
“Just…be more careful.” Sans grumbled, before lumbering out of the room.
Alicia flicked her hands outward at that. ‘Be more careful how?!’
Red thankfully didn’t add any more comment and shuffled out of the room in silence. Blue looked to have a strained smile. “I’m Sure Everything Will Be Fine Once We Have All Cooled Off.” He said very generically as he left.
Stretch looked deeply puzzled, giving off a pensive gaze as he looked around the room like looking for something one last time before leaving and Russ, with the same range of expression as statue himself, pared barely a flicker as he filed out, leaving Alicia alone to her own thoughts. None of it made any sense to her. She scratched at her head, looked around herself, thinking for all possibilities like why hadn’t she even heard the crash to begin with? Did it happen while she was at work and no one else was home to hear it either? She was absolutely blamed for something she didn’t do again but no evidence of the real culprit. The bust was still there on the floor, even in pieces it looked like a shiny mess. She kneeled down to pluck a chunk up. The polished white material was so light, too light to be marble. Maybe she could at least look into buying more material. Not that she owed the tyrant anything. She tried looking it up online but the closest thing that was even similar was moonstone, only the chunk she had, had a reddish hue instead of blue. Yet under the magnifying glass, it had the porous surface of bone. Her shoulders drooped; guess she should have known better than to hope it would be that easy.
She groaned as she set it on her desk sighing to herself. If expensive things kept breaking in this house, she wouldn’t be able to stay here what with getting blamed for everything. Money aside though, Razz had come at her with the full intention of cutting her in half. What if the others had not stepped in when they did and who’s to say they would do it a second time? What if next time it was someone else…?
Instinctively she rubbed her chest, that pressure earlier, was even more frightening than the scythe. Because it was inescapable as far as she knew. What if that happened and another scythe or attack was coming her way…
Alicia scrubbed her face to clear it from the dark possibilities spiraling out of control. No, she wouldn’t fall into that unreal anxiety. Instead,she had a better idea and already knew a couple good candidate to ask for help. “I need to train.”

Chapter Text

Alicia had fairly quickly learned the routine of Wine and Coffee’s store, how they liked things ran and what to do at certain times. It was mostly simple concept after all. When she came home, she would offer to clean the kitchen or something either Papyrus, Blue, or Razz were cleaning or straightening. Needless to say she steered as far away from Razz as possible, not even offering a simple greeting.
The other two would kindly deny her offer or give her something easy. She wanted to show that she at least tried to earn her keep and pull her own weight. That’s what any respectable adult would do after all.
Sometimes when Bear or Lion might come in, she would gret them with her arms out.
“Are you T posing me?”
“What?”
“You tryin’ ta intimidate me bucko?”
“No. Ha, I want a hug.”
At this, Lion would laugh softly and definitely give her a hug, while Bear would stare at her like she was dumb for a teasing moment before slowly allowing her to hug him. He’d grumble empty warnings at her like ‘yer keeping me from my food…’ to which he’d earn some wary side glances from any one else around within earshot.
Once she was done with chores and duties, she’d sometimes very quietly sit on the couch to watch whatever was on. No one really acknowledged her presence, so she wasn’t sure if she was truly welcomed or were they even getting used to her by now…
She was just jotting down a few things when she heard the familiar voices of Jada and Blue passing by.

Blue looked up at Jada, a sort of puppy plea on his face. “We Have Not Gone On A Date In A Good While. Would You Like To Come With Me To The Park Where They’re Hosting Live Shows Today?” He asked Jada who was sitting at the bar on one of the stools
Alicia sat on the furthest armchair at the side, pretending not to listen in while she was writing some things in her notebook.
Jada, looked to be only half listening herself till she looked back at Blue. “Oh you mean that volunteer place for raising money?”
“Yes.” Blue smiled a little more. “I Mentioned It Last Week. The Carnival Event That The Firefighters Are Hosting At The Park.”
Jada’s face didn’t change, in fact she just looked uninterested without knowing how to just say no. “Maybe another time. I don’t really want to donate money to firefighters. Don’t they already make good pay? No thanks.”
“We Can Pick Some Place Else. The Movies?” Blue tried again.
Jada looked up at him, smiling in a way Alicia couldn’t quite describe, but it didn’t seem nice. She stood up and petted Blue’s skull. “You’re so cute Blue. So sweet and just way too caring about everything!”
Blue’s smile lit up as soft ‘mweh heh’s came from him.
“There really isn’t anyone more magnificent, thoughtful and positive as you!” Jada showered him with compliments and even put a kiss on his skull, telling him how much she loved him. Then almost like a timer went off, she straightened up and just left the whole living room.
Alicia looked down the hall Jada had disappeared and back to Blue. The little skeleton though, had a wistful look in his normally bright eyes, downcast like he was trying to figure out what he did wrong.
“What’s a matter?” Alicia asked softly. “Movie date riiiight?” she smiled and made a thumbs up.
Blue blinked from his thoughts, eye lights on her in a little surprise. “Oh. Well, not exactly. She always Tells Me Those Nice Things And Walks Away.” He said softly.
Alicia waited for him to say more, but instead he just perked up and forced a smile on his face. “But I Am Sure It’s Just Bad Timing And We Will Have Our Date Soon!” The optimistic skeleton claimed before turning on his heels and leaving as well. Out of habit, Alicia smiled too, but it was hardly genuine. Clearly the guy was good at keeping his head up, but she couldn’t help but wonder if he was sad inside.
How was he really feeling about Jada and did she even know she was having this effect on him?
She did feel sorry for the poor guy who wore his heart out on his sleeves, who seemed to put himself in a more vulnerable position in order to be on the same level with someone else. Glancing down once more at her pone, she wondered if later on, she could just ask him and his brother if they wanted to hang out. Would that be weird?
Speaking of Blue’s brother.
Alicia Wondered if Stretch was ever lonely. Most of the time she saw him he was by himself. Sometimes he’d be inside catching the movie, maybe playing games, or eating a meal. The other times he'd be nowhere in sight. Alicia assumed he was at work during those times. He was just as hard to read as Russ was, albeit a little easier since Stretch talked a little bit more. Small glimpses into his thoughts and personality that gave Alicia pieces to a very big jigsaw puzzle. Man… She wished she was as good at reading people as Sans was. The both were very good at sending off mixed signals.
Alicia went outside where Stretch liked to smoke his cigarette often, no surprise there to find him in that same spot.
It was scrolling through her phone, keeping tabs on fun things to do, did she get the idea to ask them if they wanted to try going someplace with her.

“Hello Stretch.” Alicia approached.
The orange skeleton lazily looked over at her with small, half lidded eyes sockets.
“How’s it going?” She tried.
“Alright.” Stretch replied in a way he was clearly waiting for the point if this.
“So, there’s tis wolf sanctuary I just found,” She showed him the website on her phone. “And I thought it’d be cool to check out. Would you and Blue like to come with me?”
By the tense silence and the weird stare she got from him, she may as well have asked for nudes. Before the awkwardness got way too weird, Alicia shrugged some and fidgeted. “It’s just a thought, if you were interested…” She muttered some and backed away now leaving behind the creepy, staring skeleton to his own devices.
“You sure you want Blue and I to go? What’s the occasion?” Stretch asked in his usual impassive tone.
“I just want to go do more things since I’m in the city now. Tired of being a home body for so long.” Alicia answered pretty easily for him.
Stretch dabbed ashes off his cigarette. “When do you plan to go?”
“By next weekend, but it’s not set in stone yet.” Alicia said as she leaned against a post. “You can tell Blue about it when you see him and let me know.” She offered a smile.
Stretch. Although he had a perma-grin of his own, didn’t really change his expression much more than maybe a softer gaze around the sockets and a simple nod. “I’ll let him know.”
“Cool.” Alicia said. Though with the silence that stretched right after that, she stood up again and left. Not having anything left to say meant it was time to go in her book.

It was about three days later did Blue approach her in the living room to confirm that he and Stretch would go with her to the wolf sanctuary. She smiled and made a thumbs up to him, set up the plans and preparations the day before. On that morning, Blue and Stretch were downstairs, one fixing up a nice breakfast for al three of them and the other sleeping at the table.
“Good morning guys.” Alicia greeted.
“Good Morning Human.” Blue smiled up as he sat a platter of breakfast at the table. He shook his brother awake to make him eat something. Alicia thanked him too for making enough for her to take part in, and she helped clean things back up when they were done. Blue sat in the passenger seat and Stretch had the whole second row to himself.
Blue looked calm and content to go on the day trip, as Stretch looked pretty chill in the back there too. She was trying to think of good conversation starters but Blue beat her to it this time.
“How Are You Liking The City Human?”
“So far it’s pretty nice. Nice part of town we’re in too. Have you been all over the city already?”
“Not Yet. There Is Still So Much To See. I Have Not Yet Been Able To Visit Everywhere. Thank You For Inviting Us.” Blue flashed a big, starry grin at her.
“You’re so very welcome. My hope is to do something new every one or two weeks. Nothing too crazy of course but something to get out of the house more.”
“Ohhh. Mweh Heh Heh! I Think That Is A Very Good Idea Human Alicia!” Blue complimented in a cheery tone. She smiled at him for that and spared a glance at Stretch in the back, who she could have sworn he was staring at her but he was looking out the window when she looked at him.
Along the ride, the GPS speaking out every so often, Stretch still remained his stoic silence. She did notice he pulled out a jar of honey from his hoodie pocket, prompting her to ask if they wanted to stop anywhere. The brothers kindly declined and so she continued on her way. She was trying to think of good subjects to talk about, or should she let the silence hang…
“This is pretty country.” She finally voiced out when they were closer to the sanctuary.
“Yes, Pretty Scenery Like This Is Why We All Agreed To Purchase The House That We Now Have.” Blue smiled at a memory.
“Oh man. I’d say you really found the perfect spot. Like it was made for you all.” Alicia agreed. “How bout you Stretch? You more of a country or a city lover?” she asked for something of an icebreaker.
“I like the peace that comes with the country side.” He answered casually.
“Mweh! We Picked That House Because We Get The Best Of Both Worlds. Not Very Far From The City With All The Benefits Of The Country!” Blue summarized. He looked back out the window when he saw the signs of the place coming up. “We’ve Arrived. At A Reasonable Hour Too.” He watched as Alicia pulled into a parking spot. Stretch quietly gazing out the window and opening his door first when the vehicle shut off. Blue nearly bounded out with Alicia casually behind them with a small back pack pulled on. Right in front after admittance was paid, was a large stand where wolf dogs were there like a petting zoo, taking donations or if one wanted to adopt. She openly stared at them as they walked by, admiring the pretty and very social animals, the puppies that played and pawed for the attention of people passing by. They were so cool and she would have loved one. However, she was still aware of the houses rules and of course, that wolf dogs required so much more attention than a regular dog.
She’d be asking Bear and Lion to help take care of it while she was gone.
Maybe another time.
“Some of these little guys look like the dog monsters we used to play with.” Stretch mused.
“Dog monsters? They sound like a lotta fun. Or maybe a little annoying.” Alicia answered.
“Yeah. There even was a dog that was named Annoying after a while. He ended up joining the Delta squad and was really good as a guard.” Stretch answered.
Alicia started to smile a wistful grin as she thought on it. “He found a good calling.”
Blue thumbed his hand over to the first exhibit of a white wolf. “Let’s Meet Kaya.” He grinned. Going over there easily with the other two, they were greeted by the white she wolf sauntering up and rubbing her back along the fence line. “Oh. Why Is She Doing That? Does She Have A Itch She Can’t Reach?”
Alicia watched as the wolf went back and forth, stopping when some people caught her attention.
“It’s a gesture of affection, according to this.” Alicia answered reading the little booklet. “They like your scent or They want you to have their scent for familiarity and because it’s pleasing.”
“They want a scent of belonging.” Stretch added.
“Absolutely Not!” Blue’s arms were suddenly up in an X shape in front of him. “We Will No Be Starting This Day Off With Terrible Puns That Will Ruin It!”
Alicia softly giggled at their bantering at each other. Even the she wolf stopped to eye them with a funny look of bafflement. Alicia took photos of them while she had the chance.
At one time, they would sit on a bench while the wolves or wolf dogs would come visit them. One came up, sniffing and licking at Stretch’s skull, floppy tongue even got him in his socket making him pout in a look of mild, ‘bug eyed’ horror at the slobber now coating the side of his face. Alicia took a picture of that face as well.
She was a big animal lover herself if she really let herself go. Petting and playing with the puppies, nuzzling with the older ones, getting fur and saliva everywhere too.
Alicia had so much fun playing with them that she had not realized the brothers were standing around watching and waiting on her till she looked up and saw them watching her.
“Oh.. ya’ll waiting on me? Heh, sorry.” Alicia said in dry humor as she got up again.
“Are You A Big Animal Lover Human?” Blue asked with his amused smile.
“Yyyess..” Alicia said with a slight sheepish smile. “I’ve always dreamed about having a small farm of my own one day once I’ve raised the funds for it.”
“Oh? That Sounds Quite Rewarding.” Blue complimented.
“Thank you thank you.” Alicia flashed happy grin about. “I’ll have a nice happy little farm, and you both can come visit it whenever you’d like.”
Blue chuckled. “Mweh Heh! We’d Love To Human.”
It appeared that Blue was back to his normal self, she hoped. So she continued making little jokes or goofing around hoping to get his mind onto more happier thoughts and for Stretch to open up a little bit around her. That last one was harder though, so she settled on just making sure he felt included and wanted. They stopped for some frozen yogurt on the way back, her treat as well. Neither of them had ever had that before and she was elated to share a favorite treat with them.
Stretch seemed to appreciate funny memes or videos while Blue liked to ask ‘get to know you’ questions.
When they finally arrived back home, satisfied for the little trip, Blue once more turned to her. “Thank You Again Human. The Change Of Scenery Was Good For Both Of Us.”
Alicia flashed a kind smile to him and his brother. “Oh you’re quite welcome, thank you for joining me.”
Blue and Stretch returned their own smiles before turning away to return to their respective bedrooms and business. Alicia was just thinking what she would do next to wind down for the day, and quickly had her next plan, the bathhouse!
So up the stairs she went to her room, gathering her clothes, towel lotion, etc., all in a bag and back down to the backyard where the bathouse awaited. Inside, the place already smelled like scented candles, the water in the pool all warm and inviting. She jumped in a stall to change into her swimsuit, then carefully lowered herself in the hot water, sighing or wincing a little at the heat that instantly engulfed her.
It didn’t take too much longer for her to be relaxed enough that even her racing mind went lax.
Alicia gazed at the large pool that was steaming hot for the enjoyment of an actual private bathhouse. She had been excited to try this for herself for a few days and now having secured the job with Wine and Coffee, she found this to be a grand reward.
She was submerged to her shoulders in it, she lightly swam to one of the submerged chairs to sit on. “Ohhh my good lord almighty, Why don’t we have more of these all the time?” She groaned to herself as the water thawed her out and melted her muscles. It was nice, so nice that she finally had a decent paying job, maybe not exactly in the career she wanted but that was an easy sacrifice to start racking up a good savings.

When she looked up from her show on her phone, she startled some at seeing Red. His overly fluffy hood up over his skull, grinning at her. He looked bigger, bulkier somehow. She chalked it up as his big bulky jacket he sometimes still wore even in the hot days. “Heya..human. What’s cookin’?” He greeted slowly.
Alicia just stared at him and blinked once by his unusual appearance here. “Nothing much..Just enjoying the benefits of a bath house.” She answered in some awkwardness.
His eye lights dragged along the water surface before he started shedding his own clothes. Alicia didn’t mind it until he also slipped off his shorts and down to nothing but a magical skeleton. Her first instinct was to look away, which she did. Her second thought was one of confusion. He’s a skeleton. He doesn’t have any junk.
Unless…
They used some kind of magic to summon magic shlongs and dongs in order to get someone like Jada to moan for more-
Shhtaap!
All if these thoughts are fluttering about in her head the whole time Red was sinking into the water. He stayed along the rim of the pool being the shallowest of course. Leaning his head back and tilting it sideways to eye her again. Alicia just made a simple slow nod ‘Oookay, So this is happening.’
“Ya know, since my time underground, Neva’ thought I’d see the day again, humans and monsta’s, getting along. But you don’t seem all that comfy now that one’s sharin’ the bath with ya…on monsta’ property too.”
At this Alicia slowly turned to regard him now with a raised brow sort of look, to fully understanding what he was insinuating there. “Guess it don’t matta’ anymore.”
“Maybe I’m just a little surprised by the monster being you, considering you have a girlfriend already and this maaaay look a little wrong to her?” Alicia voiced her thoughts.
“ Isa’ bath house not a private tub, and yer in yer swimsuit.” He countered.
“Fair enough. So long as nothing gives off any false signals too.” Aliia et her head lean back some to rest against the rim of the pool too, sinking down some to allow the hot water onto her shoulders and neck. Then she felt the water waves some and looked back to see the monster.

Red was suddenly close to her, smiling a grin that seemed much more malicious. “Ain’t you lucky? A whole family a’ monstas’, takin’ ya in like lil puppy. Givin’ ya everything ya need fer livin’ fer what..? Free er dirt poor rent?”
“I pay rent. I help anyone who wants it, you know that since you usually catch me in the kitchen making lunches for Bear and Lion.” Alicia reminded casually, although inside her nerves were a little on edge.
“Heh. Sweet.” Red rumbled. “Would ya be willin’ ta help me out? When I want it? Er do I gotta pay ya?”
“Yes. I’d be willing to help you Red, I wouldn’t be adverse to a little money, just nothing irrational of course.”
“ A’ course.” Red rumbled as he draped his arms along the lip of the tub, anchoring himself by his elbows. “There’s some equipment I can’t find. Like a monsta’s portable lab, monsta candy too. So while yer out an’ about, grab me some an’ I’ll pay ya back. Just don’t tell anyone about the surprise gifts okay?”
“Sure. That’s reasonable enough.” Alicia agreed easily. She did find it a little strange of a request, but to be fair, there were times when monster candy was on back order in some stores.
“Thanks doll.”
“Please don’t call me that.” Alicia grimaced.
“Okay dolly.” Red answered without missing a beat. It was obvious he did that on purpose for many years.
“Not that either.” Alicia tried again.
“Ar’right baby doll.” He growled out in amusement.
Alicia on the other hand scowled even more. “Go back to just doll.” She grumbled out as she side eyed him. Now that he was closer, it was of course, much harder not to take in the finer details of his magical form.
His bones looked to be somehow, thicker and bigger. Notches or scares decorating it like he as a Vietnam veteran. Even his eyelight color this close, was noticeably two toned instead of just red. Maybe she was just paranoid but it felt, different too, being beside him. Before, it was like a general agitation, disgruntlement. Now, it felt sinister, like a mine field. Alicia rolled her shoulders some, popping the little vertebrae of her neck and casually got up.
“See you around.” She greeted simply and got up out of the pool. She felt his gaze on her like weights on her body. It made her tense and walk faster to the changing rooms. She got dressed quicker and then back to her room. Sighing to herself, she relaxed with some podcast and drawing. Some of tese monsters in this house were pretty complex creatures weren’t they…

Chapter Text

Alicia walked in to work with a tray of boba drinks, excited to share a favorite with Wine and Coffee. She opened the door and went to the back room as usual, there sitting at the desk as Wine in all his fancy glory, pouring over some documents he had in front of him.
“We’ll give them till the end of this month. A fair grace period, as they’ve already had him for two weeks now.” He said to his brother who stood at the side, an almost blank stare if one didn’t know him well enough.
Coffee nodded in silent agreement, he loked back at his phone like he was texting something. He looked up and startled some when Alicia as standing there, a mousy little squeak coming from him.
Wine looked up at hearing the odd sound, following his gaze and seeing Alicia amused grin.
“Good morning Alicia.” He greeted. “Snuck right in here without our noticing. How quiet you are.”
Alicia walked up to them. “I get that a lot actually. Here, I got you both something. A little favorite treat of my own.” She put Wine’s drink on his desk and Coffee she passed to his hand.
“Ah yes, the bo-ba I hear about.” Wine smiled and he took a sip. “Hmm, not bad. Thank you my dear.”
Coffee’s face lit up at the taste, smiling like he was just given a hundred bucks.
It was a contagious grin to be sure, as Alicia had not stopped grinning seeing that they too loved one of her favorites.
She went to put her things down to get started on opening duties for the boutique, which all were very easy. Though when they had a sudden rush of customers, that’s when things would get a little hectic. All three of them would be on the floor, helping and serving people. Alicia really just had the cashier job she traded with Coffee, so they both would take breaks from sitting still too long.
Once the rush was over and the lapse of a slow hour cam sliding in, Alicia had time to daydream again while she cleaned the store. Her mind drifted back to the broken bust that Razz as so adamant about killing her over, and what she might do if he ever decided to strike again when no ones around. Would a bullet be enough for a monster of his caliber? If not then what were her chances?
Side glancing Wine as he walked by with a box he was toting, she had the idea of asking them. “Say Wine? Do you know where I might get some training on self defense against monster attacks?”
“Monster attacks?!” Wine’s astonished head came popping back through the doorway to look ather like she had lost her own head. “Why on earth would you feel the need to take that?”
“Wh- Well, same reason I’d take self defense against humans I suppose.” She downplayed it real hard. She wasn’t sure if telling Wine exactly what happened would be a good idea right now.
He looked pensive at her as he seemed to mull it over, then his usual smile came back. “Well, if it’s self defense you’d like, I may be able to help with that myself.” He walked in fully. “I’d love to impart my knowledge to a fellow knowledge seeker. Right brother!”
“Yas!” Coffee’s voice echoed from somewhere around the store.
“Really now? Actually I think I’d quite like that.” She smiled some at the offer.
Wine puffed up his chest smiling in approval. “Splendid. Today I have no time for it, however, my brother on the other hand..”
Coffee’s face seemed to light up in a light blush as he ducked his head a little more.
“None of that now brother you and I both know that it would do you some good to have that extra bit of exercise. Two birds one stone as the humans say.” Wine lightly tutted.
Alicia smiled now to Coffee. “Hey I’m level one, so at least you don’t have to start off too crazy.” She tried to encourage.
Coffee sighed some to himself. “Fine..” he finally mumbled.
Though after business hours was up, and the two met in the back of the store, Coffee still wasn’[t interested much. It wasn’t even just that day either. Most of the days, Coffee was only half hearted or just difficult to budge at all.
“Coffee.”
“…”
“Coffee come on.”
“No.”
“Coffee you ‘posed to help!”
“Nuuuu!”
“I’ll tell Wine…..no don’t make no pouty face at me.” Alicia quickly looked away so as to not fall victim to the deadly cutsie face.
Alicia hands folded across her chest. They were supposed to practice the basics and Coffee just didn’t seem to want to budge, not even with the simple basics that she knew he was a master at. With a sigh, she left him alone and went back inside the store from the back door. She went to go grab her water bottle and take a pull of it, when suddenly she was bopped on the head with the blunt end of a reddish/gold bone. “What the?” another hit her. “Hey!”
She went to grab it and the next, trying to block or catch them before they hit her. She pursued them till she was in the main room with a skeptical Wine standing there regarding her. “What is this? You are supposed to dodge the attack, not run and catch it.”
“Heh.” She smiled sheepishly. “Well, Coffee didn’t want tot train with me so…I was about to just go home and lift weights.”
“Now that simply won’t do. How shall you train to expect a surprise attack?” Wine’s heels clicked together and he walked past her to confront his brother.
Alicia followed him, semi interested in what tactic he’d use to motivate his brother. Wine just kneeled down to softly talk with Coffee in hushed voices that were too soft for Alicia to hear. She had half a mind to walk over there and join them, the other half saying not to intrude. Luckily it wasn’t a long chat and Wine stood back up. “Come Alicia. I have a little time today. I shall give you your first real lesson. Coffee can observe for now.”
Alicia looked curious. “Alright.” She said with a tilt of her head.
“Honestly, the best way to beat a monster is with better endurance and defense, so let us see how long you can last in a simple game of dodge.”
Alicia nodded and mentally prepared herself to do just that. Wine clearly was starting at level 1 with her, a kid could dodge these ‘attacks’ easily. Alicia also knew better though to even show that she was having too much fun or underestimating this. So she didn’t. As predicted, Wine upped the challenge more and more until she saw exactly where she was at and what he was working with.
Wine didn’t let up either to her frustration. Not even when she was slowing down from weariness, getting hit by bones more than dodging them. Though the whole time, Coffee was watching. He still hadn’t made any move from his spot but seemed to just be analyzing it all.
The next day though, Wine had decided to change tactics and showed her what and Encounter was like. He seemed surprised as he looked at her STATS and SOUL, but it didn’t last long. Especially after Alicia mumbled about her soul looking like a ‘bag of skittles’. He snorted and on wen the challenge.
It was only when she was getting the hang of her lessons did Coffee finally jump in, helping her dodge, learning how to work with partner especially as Wine took his ‘villainous act’ a little too seriously. It was all fun, hard work, learning her options and how to be diplomatic, or how to fight.
When she came home, Lion was happy for her while Bear wasn’t really sure how to take it, for the most part he just smiled and congratulated her. She had also made it real point to avoid Razz as best as possible, sometimes that included Red and Edge. She also made sure to clean anything she used, double checking her trail and did a few exercises even in her room. (When she could make herself do it.)
At night or in the morning, she liked to write down a few memos to herself.
(*) Always thank God as if you already have it
(*) It takes an average of 2 years for ladies to get a six pack
(*)Leave the house singing to raise your joy levels for the day
(*) Walk with authority!
(*) Remember the Number Angels
(*) Act like nothing can bother you

And anything else she could think of at the time. Work had become a routine schedule for her now. Till one morning, Wine was dressed in a more uniform outfit as he met her in the break room, the boutique’s lights and a ‘temporarily closed sign on the door.’

Welcome in my dear! Set your things down quickly and let’s get going! Meet me in the front by my car.” Wine said.
“We’re actually going somewhere? Hat about the shop?” Alicia aske ass he dropped her bag.
“The shop can wait and be closed today.” Wine answered ass he grabbed his keys, Coffee putting some sign on the door before waiting for her to exit. “Today, we have a more important duty to attend to. Worry not, you will be compensated for today still.”
Alicia quickly followed suit. Jumping in the passenger seat as Wine started up his car. Coffee hopped in the back easily enough. “Where are we going?”
“To the city zoo!” Wine exclaimed.
“Yaaay!” Coffee cheered in the back.

The zoo?

Not what Alicia was expecting to hear.

“I haven’t been to the zoo in years.” Alicia mused softly.

“Today we change that. Stick close however, Lots of extra territories have been added to the zoo these passed years. Best not to get lost.” Wine advised as if talking to two children.

How very strange an unexpected. Alicia didn’t take Wine to be a guy interested in the zoo of all places. Or Coffee anymore for that matter. Not that she was complaining for a nice visit, but it just felt out of place for some reason. Or maybe she just didn’t know the skeleton brothers as well as she thought.

The trip there was thankfully, void of too much traffic. Instead of parking in the visitor’s parking place though, Wine pulled into the employee and staff parking, making Alicia sit up again. “You..don’t work at the zoo too?...”

“I do not. However I have spoken to the managers about an issue a month ago that I wanted addressed, and today is the day we get to see it done!” Wine answered sounding quite pleased with himself as everyone clambered out of his car.

Alicia was quiet as she followed him, doing her best to look like she knew what the hell she was doing with them. Some staff members hd passed by, casting curious glances at them but otherwise said nothing. Wine didn’t stop until they were all greeted by a middle aged man around the corner.

“Mr. Wine. Mr. Coffee.” He said and gave a curt nod to Alicia.

“Mr, Montez.” Wine replied in professional manner. “Let’s not waste another minute, show us to the exhibit”

The zookeep mutely turned on his hips, not looking overly pleased by no means either as he escorted them.
They walked down a dark hallway till they stopped a large door. “Through here is his exhibit.” The man said as he took out the key.
Wine had turned to Alicia now. “Miss Alicia. What we are about to endeavor is something humans may consider dangerous. However, you are with us. There is no need to fear.”
Alicia blinked once at him. “What are we trying to do here?” She asked.

Wine’s ambitious smirk never left his face. “Behind these doors is a naga. The humans found it injured from some sort of battle. I allowed them to keep it here while it recovered with the promise that it would be well taken care of. However not all my standards were met.” Wine glanced at the manager who frowned back at him. “While it is not uncommon to have a naga at the zoo, this one is too dangerous to stay here. I am liberating it from this place to return it home.”

Alicia nodded slowly as she watched him. “And you want me to be the bait while you…tranquilize it?”

“Nonsense!” Wine waved his gloved hand. “I want you to assure him we are simply trying to help.” He says as the door is opened.
“Oh, is that all?” Alicia said in a half joking manner as she followed them in.
“It is. And everything is better over food as well.” Wine said as he plucked up a bucket and shoved it in her hnds. In the bucket was large chunks of fresh meat. “Have at it!” he encouraged.

In the exhibit, it looked as if they had spent a great deal of time and money making this large space. Like they really didn’t have any intention of letting this naga creature return home. The plants looked like they have already been growing there for months. She stepped lightly. Walking slowly and eyeing everything that moved. So, she was supposed to be looking for a snake monster, a fairly big guy who was probably scared and wary and her job was to just act as a soothing assurance. Okay, she could do that. She made it to the pool and still didn’t see anything or anyone. She kept walking slowly till she was at a large rock and climbed on it. “Hellooo?” she called out gently.
No answer.
She kept turning around and looking in every direction, not wanting to get caught off guard. Sighing quietly to herself, she looked down at the bucket wondering if she should even be carrying it right now. As she turned around it was then she saw two bright glowing eyes from a dark spot, a cave more exactly…
Two purple eyes watching her from an unnatural darkness of a cave. A hissing sounded and out poked the very large body of the naga himself, clad in purples and golds on his clothing, upper skeletal body rearing up as he poked through the mouth of the cave where the unnatural darkness clung to his body and shrank back like animated, ink tendrils. Sharp, purple diamonds in the sockets of his skull leering down at her with a royal like presence.

“Easy there..” Alicia said as she slowly backed off the rock. “I’m not here for trouble. I just here to feed you..” she said showing the bucket. “..and to let you know, my friends and I are going to get you home.”

The naga’s eyes flared to a purple light again as he looked at her with a sharper stare and hissing. He suddenly dipped down into the botany and out of her sight, but only for a few seconds. Alicia heard the ferns rustling before she saw them, as she was no longer just standing around but making a Bee line for the door.
Suddenly she was cut off however before making it there. The big naga stood in her way, yet before she could even try running again, he was on her. Quickly he grabbed her in a giant hug like fashion and she was lifted off the ground as he hissed and balled around her. “Ah! Le’me go le’me go le’me go!” she exclaimed. Of course that didn’t happen.
There were some distant shouts that had the naga glance around, then suddenly he ‘whooshed’ back to the cave. Alicia felt a little whip lash from it and closed her eyes.
She felt scale-wrapped muscle move around her body like finding a good way to hold her still. If Alicia struggled, then the hold would just get tighter.
She was inside the cave, held hostage by the snake monster and no clue where Wine and Coffee were.
The thick darkness was hard even for her eyes to pierce after they adjusted to the dark. She could only make out silhouettes now and it seemed even the purple scales had even turned black. It felt like things were moving around her, like more tails or arms or something. She finally located the naga’s upper body as he was between her and the mouth of the cave. Gone were the purple diamonds, replaced by one, large cyan eye.
The naga was hissing and mumbling incoherently to himself. He looked to be covered completely in black with stripes of teal or cyan accents that slowly faded into the darkness.
Alicia took a shaky breath, hoping this wouldn’t turn bad. “Mister naga sir? Please let me go. I’m no threat to you.”
The naga froze some, like he was listening to her so she continued. “My name is Alicia. And yours?”
The cyan eye turned towards her, regarding her with an unreadable sort of stare. As he started to turn fully towards her and closer, the black and teal faded away to the purple and gold skeleton she saw first. It felt almost like the LOTRO scene where the One Eye stared right at Frodo being the size of a house.
“…I am Nightmare.” He answered her with a voice that was ethereal and powerful.
She gazed at him, expecting him to say more or say ‘just kidding’, or even some ominous music to start playing, but none of that happened. The naga narrowed his already slitted eyes at her as if daring her to say anything funny or mocking. Alicia felt that she was really going to have to play her cards carefully…
“Nightmare...” she said slowly. “Nice to meet you Nightmare. I was sent to meet you, to feed you and tell you about my friends and I. We’ve come to help get you back home.”
“Is that so?” Nightmare replied in an unbelieving sort of tone. “To feed me, raw chunks of cold flesh from a bucket. They send you into my den completely unarmed, just to pass a message.”
Alicia racked her head for something to reply with. “If I was armed, you might truly think I was trying to be a threat.”
Nightmare snorted dismissively.
“And they wouldn’t allow me in here if it was too dangerous for me as well.” She continued.
At this however, Nightmare’s eye light glowed a little brighter as his sharp gaze bore into her.
“You have that must trust and faith in your friends? Have they done anything to truly earn your unwavering loyalty, that you would march right into the coils of a naga? Do they not know that to us and lamia, humans are always on the menu?”
Alicia felt the tension thicken in the room. “Only humans deserving of that kind of fate certainly.” She countered weakly with a lop sided smile.
“To a hungry beast, what difference would that make? To a creature stolen from his home with the propaganda of ‘saving’ them, only to be trained into abiding by greedy keepers. Perahaps,” he raised his hand up towards her and she began to feel a pressure of sorts in her chest, like the whole heart itself was grabbed and threatened to be yanked out of her chest. It made her wince at the foreign and uncomfortable feeling. “You are merely fodder to the beast, a small distraction for them to attain some other goal behind the doors, and leave you to your fate.”
“While that’s not impossible,” Alicia began as she forced a smile, “I am at peace with my faith in these particular friends. Because I know they want what you and I want too.”
Nightmare stared at her for another short heartbeats before dropping his hand, and the discomfort in her chest ended as he sat back some in thought.
“Is that what they told you?” Nightmare rumbled quietly.
Alicia heaved a soft sigh as she watched him. “Something to that effect.”
The dark lamia humorlessly snorted. “Very little to go direction and very little assurance. You have a lot of faith. An admirable quality to the wise. Let’s see if your friends are truly worthy of your loyalty.”
As he said this, his eye narrowed and Alicia looked around to notice the ‘tails’ were actually tentacles, quivering, writhing and undulating about the cave room as if sentient.
Alicia’s smile was still there if not a little strained. She knew that wine was a monster that always lived up to his word, vague as it may be at times. Coffee too, let his actions always speak first and actions were always better than words. She knew that whatever they were planning was safe for all of them.
Nightmare made no further move either, curious enough. He was clearly waiting to see what anyone would do next. For Alicia, it was to pet his tail. He didn’t seem to mind, or acknowledge it either while her hand felt the onyx scales that her hand smoothly glided over. The tentacles though, had no scales, just gleaming whenever the light caught on them. In the distance, the sound of a large metal dorr echoed to them. Nightmare peered out the cave as he watched. Alicia tried to wiggle free but he was having none of that, so she spoke. “See? They’re working on getting you back home safely.”
Nightmare didn’t regard her though, it felt like her encouragement fell on deaf ears and made the silence awkward. She was about to heave another sigh when suddenly the naga lurched forward so fast that she gasped in the middle of sighing and ended up choking on her own breath.
Shouts were heard around the entrance where humans, along with Wine and Coffee were there in alarm at seeing Nightmare as if they’ve never seen him at all before. His tentacles shot out at everyone, some able to dodge and some using magic. One tentacle grabbed a human and pulled him to Nightmare. Said naga plucked some odd giant car key looking thing which he held to his neck, unlocking a collar Alicia had not even noticed.
“Yield naga!” Wine called out and suddenly as his scarf billowed about him as suddenly a crimson, mechanical dragon skull had suddenly appeared above his head. “Do not force my hand.” He warned as it was aimed at Nightmare.
“Wait! Wait! Hold on!” Alicia tried to stop everyone. The next thing was a black hole appeared from under them and she was dunked into it. For perhaps two seconds everything was just black and no air. Once she got air, she let out a gasp like being under water, scanning around looking for Wine and Coffee. However, nothing but jungle and old architecture greeted her, still wrapped in Nightmare’s tentacle as the Naga looked to be right at home now.
“Uh, Nightmare, sir?” Alicia tried tentatively. “You forgot to leave me behind.”
Nightmare’s cyan eye found her again as his face split into a dark smile. “I had every intention of bringing you along my dear.” His head tilted some as he seemed to study her. “Were they your friend aforementioned? Ready to attack even with you in the crosshairs? I wonder why I had to save you from them.”

Alicia tried to pick her words carefully, there was no stopping this very dangerous half animal half monster, VERY intelligent being from hurting her. “I’m quite sure that’s why they didn’t instantly attack sir.” She said softly. “I don’t know if, or how, or what their next move is, but please allow me to return to them? If they come here, a fight may very well break out and the whole point of visiting you was to return you home, which you are now.” She tried as she looked around the cave and some parts of bio-luminescence lighting some spots like tiny night lights.
Nightmare chuckled a dark rumble as he slithered forth. It felt like with each few meters, his body seemed to grow, or become lost in the darkness. It felt like she was being lifted to his much large face.
“Let them come. I am looking forward to their visit, along with my own…comrades.”
Alicia blinked once as she pondered on his words, though she didn’t have to guess too long. Around the very large subterranean area, the place suddenly felt much more…alive. Looking around, she caught glimpses of glowing eyes that darted about, or some remained stationary. It was obvious that she as in some kind of communal nest or hive.

“ Aww Boss! Ya came back on yer own after all.”
“We were waiting for you to give us the go-ahead.”

“You brought back a snack.”

“Why did you even let yourself get caught?”

“human s-s-souls?”

“Brother!”

Chapter Text

Alicia walked in to work with a tray of boba drinks, excited to share a favorite with Wine and Coffee. She opened the door and went to the back room as usual, there sitting at the desk as Wine in all his fancy glory, pouring over some documents he had in front of him.
“We’ll give them till the end of this month. A fair grace period, as they’ve already had him for two weeks now.” He said to his brother who stood at the side, an almost blank stare if one didn’t know him well enough.
Coffee nodded in silent agreement, he loked back at his phone like he was texting something. He looked up and startled some when Alicia as standing there, a mousy little squeak coming from him.
Wine looked up at hearing the odd sound, following his gaze and seeing Alicia amused grin.
“Good morning Alicia.” He greeted. “Snuck right in here without our noticing. How quiet you are.”
Alicia walked up to them. “I get that a lot actually. Here, I got you both something. A little favorite treat of my own.” She put Wine’s drink on his desk and Coffee she passed to his hand.
“Ah yes, the bo-ba I hear about.” Wine smiled and he took a sip. “Hmm, not bad. Thank you my dear.”
Coffee’s face lit up at the taste, smiling like he was just given a hundred bucks.
It was a contagious grin to be sure, as Alicia had not stopped grinning seeing that they too loved one of her favorites.
She went to put her things down to get started on opening duties for the boutique, which all were very easy. Though when they had a sudden rush of customers, that’s when things would get a little hectic. All three of them would be on the floor, helping and serving people. Alicia really just had the cashier job she traded with Coffee, so they both would take breaks from sitting still too long.
Once the rush was over and the lapse of a slow hour cam sliding in, Alicia had time to daydream again while she cleaned the store. Her mind drifted back to the broken bust that Razz as so adamant about killing her over, and what she might do if he ever decided to strike again when no ones around. Would a bullet be enough for a monster of his caliber? If not then what were her chances?
Side glancing Wine as he walked by with a box he was toting, she had the idea of asking them. “Say Wine? Do you know where I might get some training on self defense against monster attacks?”
“Monster attacks?!” Wine’s astonished head came popping back through the doorway to look ather like she had lost her own head. “Why on earth would you feel the need to take that?”
“Wh- Well, same reason I’d take self defense against humans I suppose.” She downplayed it real hard. She wasn’t sure if telling Wine exactly what happened would be a good idea right now.
He looked pensive at her as he seemed to mull it over, then his usual smile came back. “Well, if it’s self defense you’d like, I may be able to help with that myself.” He walked in fully. “I’d love to impart my knowledge to a fellow knowledge seeker. Right brother!”
“Yas!” Coffee’s voice echoed from somewhere around the store.
“Really now? Actually I think I’d quite like that.” She smiled some at the offer.
Wine puffed up his chest smiling in approval. “Splendid. Today I have no time for it, however, my brother on the other hand..”
Coffee’s face seemed to light up in a light blush as he ducked his head a little more.
“None of that now brother you and I both know that it would do you some good to have that extra bit of exercise. Two birds one stone as the humans say.” Wine lightly tutted.
Alicia smiled now to Coffee. “Hey I’m level one, so at least you don’t have to start off too crazy.” She tried to encourage.
Coffee sighed some to himself. “Fine..” he finally mumbled.
Though after business hours was up, and the two met in the back of the store, Coffee still wasn’[t interested much. It wasn’t even just that day either. Most of the days, Coffee was only half hearted or just difficult to budge at all.
“Coffee.”
“…”
“Coffee come on.”
“No.”
“Coffee you ‘posed to help!”
“Nuuuu!”
“I’ll tell Wine…..no don’t make no pouty face at me.” Alicia quickly looked away so as to not fall victim to the deadly cutsie face.
Alicia hands folded across her chest. They were supposed to practice the basics and Coffee just didn’t seem to want to budge, not even with the simple basics that she knew he was a master at. With a sigh, she left him alone and went back inside the store from the back door. She went to go grab her water bottle and take a pull of it, when suddenly she was bopped on the head with the blunt end of a reddish/gold bone. “What the?” another hit her. “Hey!”
She went to grab it and the next, trying to block or catch them before they hit her. She pursued them till she was in the main room with a skeptical Wine standing there regarding her. “What is this? You are supposed to dodge the attack, not run and catch it.”
“Heh.” She smiled sheepishly. “Well, Coffee didn’t want tot train with me so…I was about to just go home and lift weights.”
“Now that simply won’t do. How shall you train to expect a surprise attack?” Wine’s heels clicked together and he walked past her to confront his brother.
Alicia followed him, semi interested in what tactic he’d use to motivate his brother. Wine just kneeled down to softly talk with Coffee in hushed voices that were too soft for Alicia to hear. She had half a mind to walk over there and join them, the other half saying not to intrude. Luckily it wasn’t a long chat and Wine stood back up. “Come Alicia. I have a little time today. I shall give you your first real lesson. Coffee can observe for now.”
Alicia looked curious. “Alright.” She said with a tilt of her head.
“Honestly, the best way to beat a monster is with better endurance and defense, so let us see how long you can last in a simple game of dodge.”
Alicia nodded and mentally prepared herself to do just that. Wine clearly was starting at level 1 with her, a kid could dodge these ‘attacks’ easily. Alicia also knew better though to even show that she was having too much fun or underestimating this. So she didn’t. As predicted, Wine upped the challenge more and more until she saw exactly where she was at and what he was working with.
Wine didn’t let up either to her frustration. Not even when she was slowing down from weariness, getting hit by bones more than dodging them. Though the whole time, Coffee was watching. He still hadn’t made any move from his spot but seemed to just be analyzing it all.
The next day though, Wine had decided to change tactics and showed her what and Encounter was like. He seemed surprised as he looked at her STATS and SOUL, but it didn’t last long. Especially after Alicia mumbled about her soul looking like a ‘bag of skittles’. He snorted and on wen the challenge.
It was only when she was getting the hang of her lessons did Coffee finally jump in, helping her dodge, learning how to work with partner especially as Wine took his ‘villainous act’ a little too seriously. It was all fun, hard work, learning her options and how to be diplomatic, or how to fight.
When she came home, Lion was happy for her while Bear wasn’t really sure how to take it, for the most part he just smiled and congratulated her. She had also made it real point to avoid Razz as best as possible, sometimes that included Red and Edge. She also made sure to clean anything she used, double checking her trail and did a few exercises even in her room. (When she could make herself do it.)
At night or in the morning, she liked to write down a few memos to herself.
(*) Always thank God as if you already have it
(*) It takes an average of 2 years for ladies to get a six pack
(*)Leave the house singing to raise your joy levels for the day
(*) Walk with authority!
(*) Remember the Number Angels
(*) Act like nothing can bother you

And anything else she could think of at the time. Work had become a routine schedule for her now. Till one morning, Wine was dressed in a more uniform outfit as he met her in the break room, the boutique’s lights and a ‘temporarily closed sign on the door.’

Welcome in my dear! Set your things down quickly and let’s get going! Meet me in the front by my car.” Wine said.
“We’re actually going somewhere? Hat about the shop?” Alicia aske ass he dropped her bag.
“The shop can wait and be closed today.” Wine answered ass he grabbed his keys, Coffee putting some sign on the door before waiting for her to exit. “Today, we have a more important duty to attend to. Worry not, you will be compensated for today still.”
Alicia quickly followed suit. Jumping in the passenger seat as Wine started up his car. Coffee hopped in the back easily enough. “Where are we going?”
“To the city zoo!” Wine exclaimed.
“Yaaay!” Coffee cheered in the back.

The zoo?

Not what Alicia was expecting to hear.

“I haven’t been to the zoo in years.” Alicia mused softly.

“Today we change that. Stick close however, Lots of extra territories have been added to the zoo these passed years. Best not to get lost.” Wine advised as if talking to two children.

How very strange an unexpected. Alicia didn’t take Wine to be a guy interested in the zoo of all places. Or Coffee anymore for that matter. Not that she was complaining for a nice visit, but it just felt out of place for some reason. Or maybe she just didn’t know the skeleton brothers as well as she thought.

The trip there was thankfully, void of too much traffic. Instead of parking in the visitor’s parking place though, Wine pulled into the employee and staff parking, making Alicia sit up again. “You..don’t work at the zoo too?...”

“I do not. However I have spoken to the managers about an issue a month ago that I wanted addressed, and today is the day we get to see it done!” Wine answered sounding quite pleased with himself as everyone clambered out of his car.

Alicia was quiet as she followed him, doing her best to look like she knew what the hell she was doing with them. Some staff members hd passed by, casting curious glances at them but otherwise said nothing. Wine didn’t stop until they were all greeted by a middle aged man around the corner.

“Mr. Wine. Mr. Coffee.” He said and gave a curt nod to Alicia.

“Mr, Montez.” Wine replied in professional manner. “Let’s not waste another minute, show us to the exhibit”

The zookeep mutely turned on his hips, not looking overly pleased by no means either as he escorted them.
They walked down a dark hallway till they stopped a large door. “Through here is his exhibit.” The man said as he took out the key.
Wine had turned to Alicia now. “Miss Alicia. What we are about to endeavor is something humans may consider dangerous. However, you are with us. There is no need to fear.”
Alicia blinked once at him. “What are we trying to do here?” She asked.

Wine’s ambitious smirk never left his face. “Behind these doors is a naga. The humans found it injured from some sort of battle. I allowed them to keep it here while it recovered with the promise that it would be well taken care of. However not all my standards were met.” Wine glanced at the manager who frowned back at him. “While it is not uncommon to have a naga at the zoo, this one is too dangerous to stay here. I am liberating it from this place to return it home.”

Alicia nodded slowly as she watched him. “And you want me to be the bait while you…tranquilize it?”

“Nonsense!” Wine waved his gloved hand. “I want you to assure him we are simply trying to help.” He says as the door is opened.
“Oh, is that all?” Alicia said in a half joking manner as she followed them in.
“It is. And everything is better over food as well.” Wine said as he plucked up a bucket and shoved it in her hnds. In the bucket was large chunks of fresh meat. “Have at it!” he encouraged.

In the exhibit, it looked as if they had spent a great deal of time and money making this large space. Like they really didn’t have any intention of letting this naga creature return home. The plants looked like they have already been growing there for months. She stepped lightly. Walking slowly and eyeing everything that moved. So, she was supposed to be looking for a snake monster, a fairly big guy who was probably scared and wary and her job was to just act as a soothing assurance. Okay, she could do that. She made it to the pool and still didn’t see anything or anyone. She kept walking slowly till she was at a large rock and climbed on it. “Hellooo?” she called out gently.
No answer.
She kept turning around and looking in every direction, not wanting to get caught off guard. Sighing quietly to herself, she looked down at the bucket wondering if she should even be carrying it right now. As she turned around it was then she saw two bright glowing eyes from a dark spot, a cave more exactly…
Two purple eyes watching her from an unnatural darkness of a cave. A hissing sounded and out poked the very large body of the naga himself, clad in purples and golds on his clothing, upper skeletal body rearing up as he poked through the mouth of the cave where the unnatural darkness clung to his body and shrank back like animated, ink tendrils. Sharp, purple diamonds in the sockets of his skull leering down at her with a royal like presence.

“Easy there..” Alicia said as she slowly backed off the rock. “I’m not here for trouble. I just here to feed you..” she said showing the bucket. “..and to let you know, my friends and I are going to get you home.”

The naga’s eyes flared to a purple light again as he looked at her with a sharper stare and hissing. He suddenly dipped down into the botany and out of her sight, but only for a few seconds. Alicia heard the ferns rustling before she saw them, as she was no longer just standing around but making a Bee line for the door.
Suddenly she was cut off however before making it there. The big naga stood in her way, yet before she could even try running again, he was on her. Quickly he grabbed her in a giant hug like fashion and she was lifted off the ground as he hissed and balled around her. “Ah! Le’me go le’me go le’me go!” she exclaimed. Of course that didn’t happen.
There were some distant shouts that had the naga glance around, then suddenly he ‘whooshed’ back to the cave. Alicia felt a little whip lash from it and closed her eyes.
She felt scale-wrapped muscle move around her body like finding a good way to hold her still. If Alicia struggled, then the hold would just get tighter.
She was inside the cave, held hostage by the snake monster and no clue where Wine and Coffee were.
The thick darkness was hard even for her eyes to pierce after they adjusted to the dark. She could only make out silhouettes now and it seemed even the purple scales had even turned black. It felt like things were moving around her, like more tails or arms or something. She finally located the naga’s upper body as he was between her and the mouth of the cave. Gone were the purple diamonds, replaced by one, large cyan eye.
The naga was hissing and mumbling incoherently to himself. He looked to be covered completely in black with stripes of teal or cyan accents that slowly faded into the darkness.
Alicia took a shaky breath, hoping this wouldn’t turn bad. “Mister naga sir? Please let me go. I’m no threat to you.”
The naga froze some, like he was listening to her so she continued. “My name is Alicia. And yours?”
The cyan eye turned towards her, regarding her with an unreadable sort of stare. As he started to turn fully towards her and closer, the black and teal faded away to the purple and gold skeleton she saw first. It felt almost like the LOTRO scene where the One Eye stared right at Frodo being the size of a house.
“…I am Nightmare.” He answered her with a voice that was ethereal and powerful.
She gazed at him, expecting him to say more or say ‘just kidding’, or even some ominous music to start playing, but none of that happened. The naga narrowed his already slitted eyes at her as if daring her to say anything funny or mocking. Alicia felt that she was really going to have to play her cards carefully…
“Nightmare...” she said slowly. “Nice to meet you Nightmare. I was sent to meet you, to feed you and tell you about my friends and I. We’ve come to help get you back home.”
“Is that so?” Nightmare replied in an unbelieving sort of tone. “To feed me, raw chunks of cold flesh from a bucket. They send you into my den completely unarmed, just to pass a message.”
Alicia racked her head for something to reply with. “If I was armed, you might truly think I was trying to be a threat.”
Nightmare snorted dismissively.
“And they wouldn’t allow me in here if it was too dangerous for me as well.” She continued.
At this however, Nightmare’s eye light glowed a little brighter as his sharp gaze bore into her.
“You have that must trust and faith in your friends? Have they done anything to truly earn your unwavering loyalty, that you would march right into the coils of a naga? Do they not know that to us and lamia, humans are always on the menu?”
Alicia felt the tension thicken in the room. “Only humans deserving of that kind of fate certainly.” She countered weakly with a lop sided smile.
“To a hungry beast, what difference would that make? To a creature stolen from his home with the propaganda of ‘saving’ them, only to be trained into abiding by greedy keepers. Perahaps,” he raised his hand up towards her and she began to feel a pressure of sorts in her chest, like the whole heart itself was grabbed and threatened to be yanked out of her chest. It made her wince at the foreign and uncomfortable feeling. “You are merely fodder to the beast, a small distraction for them to attain some other goal behind the doors, and leave you to your fate.”
“While that’s not impossible,” Alicia began as she forced a smile, “I am at peace with my faith in these particular friends. Because I know they want what you and I want too.”
Nightmare stared at her for another short heartbeats before dropping his hand, and the discomfort in her chest ended as he sat back some in thought.
“Is that what they told you?” Nightmare rumbled quietly.
Alicia heaved a soft sigh as she watched him. “Something to that effect.”
The dark lamia humorlessly snorted. “Very little to go direction and very little assurance. You have a lot of faith. An admirable quality to the wise. Let’s see if your friends are truly worthy of your loyalty.”
As he said this, his eye narrowed and Alicia looked around to notice the ‘tails’ were actually tentacles, quivering, writhing and undulating about the cave room as if sentient.
Alicia’s smile was still there if not a little strained. She knew that wine was a monster that always lived up to his word, vague as it may be at times. Coffee too, let his actions always speak first and actions were always better than words. She knew that whatever they were planning was safe for all of them.
Nightmare made no further move either, curious enough. He was clearly waiting to see what anyone would do next. For Alicia, it was to pet his tail. He didn’t seem to mind, or acknowledge it either while her hand felt the onyx scales that her hand smoothly glided over. The tentacles though, had no scales, just gleaming whenever the light caught on them. In the distance, the sound of a large metal dorr echoed to them. Nightmare peered out the cave as he watched. Alicia tried to wiggle free but he was having none of that, so she spoke. “See? They’re working on getting you back home safely.”
Nightmare didn’t regard her though, it felt like her encouragement fell on deaf ears and made the silence awkward. She was about to heave another sigh when suddenly the naga lurched forward so fast that she gasped in the middle of sighing and ended up choking on her own breath.
Shouts were heard around the entrance where humans, along with Wine and Coffee were there in alarm at seeing Nightmare as if they’ve never seen him at all before. His tentacles shot out at everyone, some able to dodge and some using magic. One tentacle grabbed a human and pulled him to Nightmare. Said naga plucked some odd giant car key looking thing which he held to his neck, unlocking a collar Alicia had not even noticed.
“Yield naga!” Wine called out and suddenly as his scarf billowed about him as suddenly a crimson, mechanical dragon skull had suddenly appeared above his head. “Do not force my hand.” He warned as it was aimed at Nightmare.
“Wait! Wait! Hold on!” Alicia tried to stop everyone. The next thing was a black hole appeared from under them and she was dunked into it. For perhaps two seconds everything was just black and no air. Once she got air, she let out a gasp like being under water, scanning around looking for Wine and Coffee. However, nothing but jungle and old architecture greeted her, still wrapped in Nightmare’s tentacle as the Naga looked to be right at home now.
“Uh, Nightmare, sir?” Alicia tried tentatively. “You forgot to leave me behind.”
Nightmare’s cyan eye found her again as his face split into a dark smile. “I had every intention of bringing you along my dear.” His head tilted some as he seemed to study her. “Were they your friend aforementioned? Ready to attack even with you in the crosshairs? I wonder why I had to save you from them.”

Alicia tried to pick her words carefully, there was no stopping this very dangerous half animal half monster, VERY intelligent being from hurting her. “I’m quite sure that’s why they didn’t instantly attack sir.” She said softly. “I don’t know if, or how, or what their next move is, but please allow me to return to them? If they come here, a fight may very well break out and the whole point of visiting you was to return you home, which you are now.” She tried as she looked around the cave and some parts of bio-luminescence lighting some spots like tiny night lights.
Nightmare chuckled a dark rumble as he slithered forth. It felt like with each few meters, his body seemed to grow, or become lost in the darkness. It felt like she was being lifted to his much large face.
“Let them come. I am looking forward to their visit, along with my own…comrades.”
Alicia blinked once as she pondered on his words, though she didn’t have to guess too long. Around the very large subterranean area, the place suddenly felt much more…alive. Looking around, she caught glimpses of glowing eyes that darted about, or some remained stationary. It was obvious that she as in some kind of communal nest or hive.

“ Aww Boss! Ya came back on yer own after all.”
“We were waiting for you to give us the go-ahead.”

“You brought back a snack.”

“Why did you even let yourself get caught?”

“human s-s-souls?”

“Brother!”

Chapter Text

Welp! I saw my mistake! Apparently I don' know how to use AO3 very well and my chapters got messed up, not posting in the correct order. I went bac and fixed it, but so sorry for the confusion there!
I'm also a slow updater, what witha rather busy life I lead, I don't get a lot of time to write any more, but I'm still trying! SO thank you again for the patience and the support! Love you all!

Chapter Text

Nightmare kept a secure but oddly not uncomfortable hold on her as more nagas emerged from different tunnels. Even her own grip tightened a little at seeing so many fearsome looking monsters gathering about. The brightest one, that seemed to lightly illuminate as he approached, sped right up to Nightmare and hugged him. “Brother!” he chanted again. “Had you not come, I don’t think I would have been able to wait a moment longer. Mars said strange human mages ambushed you. They even knew how to use some sort of positive magic to weaken you.”
“There there now. I sent Mars away to seal up the hive before the mages made it passed me and found the rest of us. Such fools could not keep me down forever.” Nightmare assured the yellow themed naga.
“I mostly just took a nap. The peace was most enjoyable.”
Alicia smiled softly at the two. They looked like polar opposites and yet it was endearing to see them get along so well. Though she was suddenly rudely interrupted by another naga, one who’s hand wrapped around her head, yanking it upwards some and black holes staring at her in a black streaked stained skull. “Whadja’ bring home boss? One of the mages?”
“Ow.” Alicia winced. “ I’m not a mage.” She gritted.
Nightmare turned his singular eye at the assailant. “She is not one of the enemies that attacked me. She is a hostage however. One I should hope to gain some entertainment . Who knows if she will be rescued or not.”
Alicia wiggled out of the other guy’s hand. “And you are?”
“Killer. Or Hunter some people say.” His lifeless grin stretched across his face. “Heh heh. You better hope you stay in the boss’s favor. The minute he says he’s done with you, I’m taking your life for some LV. I’m really itching for some right now.”
Alicia frowned at him with a raised brow, although also contemplative. “ LV….Level of Violence right?”
“Heh. You know about monster STATS. Now why would that be?” He lowered his head with a suspicious hiss. His tail whipping around some like he was barely holding himself back.
“I have a few friends that are monsters is all.” Alicia answered calmly, not wanting to encourage his behavior.
Nightmare put her down and also released her, leaving her alone in front of the aggressive and ominous naga. “You all remember my orders.” He said to them and to her. “For now, you are free to wander, but do not try to escape. Anyone nearby shall escort you to dinner. I must speak with my brother now.” Nightmare straightened up some before leaving with the brighter toned naga at his side. That yellow snake monster did glance at her in mild concern before leaving again.
Alicia wished he hadn’t chosen now to abandon her in front of these creatures who are seconds away from wanting to snuff her lights out…
A naga with his hood up and two toned eye lights blocked her sight from watching Nightmare and Dream leave down another tunnel. “She doesn’t look like much. Then again, most humans don’t.” he muttered to the others.
a mostly black and white naga from behind leaned down and his reddish tongue flickered out to her. “Smells kinda nice though. Kinda like gardenia.”
Alicia took that as a compliment. She rather liked that flower. “Thank you.” She smiled with a polite head tilt. “What’s your name?”
“Cross, or Roam is fine.” He answered as he looked studiously at her.
“It’s good to meet you Roam.” Alicia said, and she looked to the others. “And the rest of your friends?”
Cross lazily followed her gaze. “Over there is Dust, or Ash. And over there is Error, Glitch.”
Alicia offered a polite smile, Ash huffed in a humorless snort while Glitch rose a brow at her.
“What should we do with her then?” Hunter asked.
“Maybe a little game, of hide and seek.” Ash rumbled darkly. “ You like games human? ‘Course you do. You go hide, and we’ll come find you.”
“Wait. That’s four seekers against one hider.” She said.
“Ha! Best get going then human. If we find you, before you find a safe place, could get dangerous for you. Yer so tiny, and we love a good chase.” Hunter said as he picked on her some b grabbing her behind her shirt and lifting some. But his claws tore into the back of her shirt now giving a shredded gap. She floundered for her balance again when her feet landed. “Hey!”
Then a deep hissing sound behind her and she saw Roam rear back a little and open his maw…
Alicia scrambled out of the way as his head came hurdling downwards in her previous spot. Luckily he moved slow enough that she had a chance to escape. She backpedaled some when she saw his head, slowly turning to face her a predatory glint in his eyes. The other two shared the same look now as they watched her, big smiles and twitching tails…
Spinning on her heals she bolted again but ended up smacking into the Glitch naga, not seeing that he got a little closer. Glitch grumpily looked down at her. He raised his hands to his face and suddenly blue strings were being pulled off of his face as he grinned maniacally down at her!
“NOOOnonono!” Alicia yelped and ran again. Picking the nearest tunnel and watching out for any sideways to take. As soon as the first came up, she unceremoniously turned into that one, bumping into the wall and haphazardly righting herself to keep running. She was not an athlete though and was worried shed’ run out of breath too soon. Though the ground had all too suddenly disappeared and she tumbled downward, descending into the naga’s hive even further as the tunnel curved about.
Eventually she slid to a stop, gasping for air and keeping the loose dirt from being inhaled. Her head spun a little as she slowly clambered to her feet.
Echoes of her pursuers reached her ears, making the hair on her neck and arms stand up, spurring her to keep going. But to where, that was the other dread.

The next room opened up significantly bigger than her small tunnel. In fact there was even a pleasant fire in a small oven that looked to be dying down in a lulling manner. Upon entering the room, smells of food wafted around and she identified the room as a large kitchen. There was a long table on one side where various dishes rested, and on the other side of the large room appeared to be floor pillows and tables. Warily she crept around the room as she got closer to the long table. Peering up at it, her mouth was already watering as she took in the fruits, the breads, the cooked meat. “Feast for a king.” She complimented the spread. Wandering around the table, she carefully plucked a few easy to reach fruit. Man she didn’t realize how hungry she was until she popped a few grapes in her mouth. Nabbing up and apple too, she bit slowly into it.
“We have a mouse in our kitchen. This won’t do.” Another voice made yet another naga known. Alicia didn’t even bother looking this time, she ran again. With the apple still lodged in her mouth, she ran down the table, just in time to hear a loud thump behind her, no doubt the creature trying to grab her.
She ran about, zig zagging and ducking out of the way if she could. Searching frantically for another escape, she found another tunnel and made a dash for it. Unfortunately he must have seen this coming, as she felt a suddenly whiplash effect of being trapped and balled up again, arms and legs restricted tightly to her body. Any grunts or sounds, muffled around the apple.
Dark blue scales all around her, then a bright red light in front of her. Her own eyes expressing her shock, as the naga before her looked very similar to Bear. “Heh, maybe more like a little lamb, prancing about like you did.” He said as he examined her. Leaning in, he rose his hand to pluck the apple from her mouth. Alicia greedily took in a gulp of air now with no restrictions blocking her. She looked back at the monster, offering a small, sheepish smile. “Hello sir.” Alicia started. “Nightmare brought me here, but then he just left to talk to his brother.”
“The boss is back?” The rattler asked inquisitively. “And he brought a snack. I suppose I just have to keep you fresh till after dinner.” He grinned darkly.
“Uh, no I don’t think he’d like that. I helped rescue him after all.” Alicia said.
“Did you now? Do you have any clue what or who you ‘rescued’ so bravely?” He asked with clear amusement in his voice.
“…A naga that was ambushed and held captive in a zoo…?” Alicia tried, she tried to get her arms free but the naga wasn’t having it.
He chuckled like listening to a kid’s babbling. “Silly little lamb. Lord Nightmare and his brother, Lord Dream, are not just monsters. You could say, they’re on god level.” He chuckled as if he told a joke. “And you expect me to believe you rescued the guardian? Funny little thing. You can’t even save yourself right now.” He squeezed her a little tighter, making her back straighten and her chest actually push upwards some. Alicia winced as it got a little too tight. He released her a little again and then squeezed her again, over like she was a rubber toy. Then she noticed he was checking her out.
He chuckled as she blushed from the way he was making her body move. She fought to get free from him again desperately. The naga looked more humored, deciding to release her enough to wiggle free. The only path he left open was back to the kitchen and his scaly body was all over the place. She had to crawl over him to get away. The whole time he teased her, hand stroking her back or brushing along her rear end. Some part of his tail raising to stroke her belly or between her legs. That really got her jerking to get away. She rolled sideways to finally get off him and get back into the kitchen. She was a little breathless, though whether it was from the running or the way his touch left her, she wasn’t completely sure. She tried not to think about it right now. The other entrance was quickly located. If she could make it there, which won’t be hard, then she’ll get back to the narrow tunnel and get away from this guy too. Just as she rounded the corner passed the archway, she was once again grabbed up by him, pulled back into the kitchen and dropped onto one of the floor pillows. Clearly this naga was having way more fun playing cat and mouse with his teasing.
She sensed more than heard or seen the naga behind her, speeding through the archway she came through and this time taking a left.
Trying to memorize her way back so that she hopefully could find her way back to the main hall they all met and she’d hide there. At least until Nightmare or Dream showed up and allow her top leave again, only that sort of luck wasn’t on her side. Instead she found her way into yet another big subterranean ‘room’, decorated with stalagmites and stalactites all over the place.
“…Well…” she muttered to herself as she tip toed in. The cavern was pretty massive. Where was even the right direction to go?!
She thought she saw a glimmer of something reddish flashing and quickly she ducked behind a stalagmite that was bigger than her. There she stayed very still, even holding her breath as she strained her ears to listen. Whatever it was, had already found her though.
“Ya lost human?” The rumbling voice of Ash, low and sinister echoed to her. “Ya sure managed to find yer way pretty far down here. Didn’t think you’d scurry this far.”
Alicia chose not to say a peep. Frantically she looked around for a way to stay out of sight and keep moving. Quickly picking her way around staying low and quiet.
“At least ya keep us pretty entertained. Noones’ found ya for over an hour. Not bad human.” Ash continued. “Do ya think you could make it outta here? Return home even, with nary a scratch? Are ya hoping someone will come save you if ya just hold out a little longer? I’m real curious about the strategy of the prey,”
Alicia had tuned him out a couple times to stay aware of her ‘strategy’, her escape route.
She couldn’t tell if he was getting closer or how fast, or how far he was. With his voice echoing about the chamber, it disoriented her senses some. She slowed to a stop where she tried to peirce the darkness in a spot that looked like a potential tunnel to hide in, that proved to be her undoing however.
“Think again!” another voice, Hunter, shouted from above the tunnel entrance, lunging down at her with arms out in front of him, narrowly missing her as he tackled the spot she was just standing in. a small avalanche of rocks and sand cascaded around him and chased after her as she ignored her burning muscles to keep out of his reach. She coughed as some of the smaller particles were still faster than her.
“Slippery aren’t ya?” Hunter chuckled as he watched her go. Though his amusement was short lived when Roam ambushed her, once again she found herself getting trapped and then held up like a trophy by a snake monster.
“Hey!” Hunter cried out. “No fair. I found her first.”
“I found her first!”
“And both of you failed to catch her.” Roam smirked victoriously.
Until blue strings wrapped around both him and Alicia, tugging the two apart and Alicia being lifted above everyone’s heads to another smiling snake monster, Glitch. “ And y-y-you all failed to keep her.”
Alicia’s head was spinning in so many ways, she couldn’t tell if she was upside down or right side up till everyone had stopped moving below her. She panted a little to catch her breath and try not to cough again. Man that was way too soon! If only she had stayed in that tunnel, would she still be safe? Now this was the end of the line, or life. They won and she was in serious danger at least if not dead..
“Come on, supper time is nearly ready anyway. Play time’s o-o-o-over.” Glitch said, making the others huff or groan.
Oh yeah. She was dead. They were going to eat her. Out the corner of her eyes, she saw a white glow that she identified as another portal. Glitch pulled them both through and they ended up in the kitchen that the naga that looked similar to Bear was in. The place looking set up for feasting. Said naga turned around as he regarded them with a stale grin that turned more lively. “Found the lost lamb.”
Glitch set her down on a giant floor pillow. Which she scrambled to get up and almost on her feet, only to be nonchalantly pushed back down on it by Glitch. “Agh! Let me go!” she demanded. “I’m not an enemy! I tried to help your leader guy! You don’t need to do this-“
“Quit yapping you little phenomenon and j-j-j-just eat before the others take it all.” Glitch growled back and shoved something akin to an empanada in her hands. Alicia flailed a little before finally holding it and staring at it in confusion. Glitch ignored her and found a place by the long table, piling things on his plate.
The other naga though hadn’t stopped staring at her. Watch her with an unblinking stare she was kind of used to with Bear, but she knew if she tried to make a break for it, they’d stop her again. So she nibbled on the empanada. To her delight, it tasted delicious. She looked down and took another healthy bite of the beef and cheese empanada, finally getting a reaction from the horror naga. He chuckled. “Good? It’s a favorite of mine.”
“It’s so flavorful.” Alicia answered like second nature to compliment the chef. But wait..weren’t they going to eat her? Watching them mill about and prep their plates before sitting across from each other, neither of them made any move towards her. Even as the others began slithering in, they just smirked at her, teasingly pat her head or pretend to steal her food before the chef naga would hiss in agitation.
Even the apple she had bitten into was returned to her.
Familiar conversation was carried out as they all got their meals together and gathered about the table.
“These are good Adze.” Roam also complimented. His eyelights shifted over to Alicia next. “What’s wrong human? Food not to your liking?”
Suddenly all eyes were on her. Pressure much?
“The meal is wonderful. “She said immediately. “But, are we missing some people?” she tried to deflect.
“Nightmare and Dream will show up later. Sometimes they skip dinner though.” Roam answered.
She really hoped they wouldn’t be skipping this time. She ate quietly and when she was done, Adze, the horror type naga, would slide a platter of something to her to take. Rolls, vegetables, and chopped sausage in cheese were also on the table. It was clear she wasn’t on the menu any longer, though a small paranoia in the back of her head wondered if she might be later. Maybe they were just fattening her up…maybe they really thought she was their pet…or maybe she was just being reserved for Nightmare and Dream…
Whenever she’d catch someone looking at her, she’d offer a polite smile.
“Lookin’ cute there human. You could stay in my nestroom tonight~” Hunter said.
“Hell no!” Glitch protested. “The r-r-rest of us won’t g-g-get any sleep!”
Alicia started blushing at the insinuation there.
“I’ll make sure she stays quiet.” Ash smirked under his hood.
Alicia felt her face flush more.
“When was the last time you both even tried courtship?” Roam asked skeptically.
Alicia was now stuffing her mouth to keep from talking.
“Heh heh. They don’t even know what that means. Meanwhile I’ve already cooked for her.” Adze grinned in a smug manner as he glanced down at her.
Now Alicia was covering her face. These snake monsters were still going to kill her, just not the way she thought.
“Let the bosses c-c-catch you talking like that a-a-about their guest.” Glitch grumbled.
“Tch, thought I was the killer around here, yer better at killin’ moods than I’ll ever be.” Hunter picked at his food, the end of his tail flicking some.
After eating half her plate, Alicia really was finding it difficult not to relax in the warm atmosphere, the familial like setting and good food. Then in the next few minutes, Ash smirked a ghostly smile. “Look who’s finally come to join.”
Alicia turned around in her floor pillow to see them, the very brothers, Dream and Nightmare come slithering in, hardly making a sound and a very regal in nature. She felt the urge to suddenly want to stand up and bow. No one else did though, other than moving over to make room for them, So she simply smiled in greetings to them as they got their plates and seats to join.
“It seems my men have been treating you fairly.” Nightmare said to her.
“We…played a scary game of hide and seek till dinner time.” Alicia answered. “ I thought I was on the menu…”
There were snickers and smirks around the table along with a few more jokes she didn’t quite catch.
Dream turned to her and pet her head with a bright and kind smile. “It’s alright human. Naga love to play games like that. We’re predator types after all. Oh, did I say thank you for trying to help my brother? It was still kind of you to try when you thought he was in danger. I was worried too for a while there actually.”
Alicia smiled under the head pats, mildly bemused by Dream and relieved by his explanation. She looed to Nightmare now. “You didn’t actually need my help, why did you stay there?”
“My own curiosity at what humans did with exotic monsters. There were some that somehow found a way to slow me down. Some humans who found a way to harness positive magic into a weapon against me. That is how they managed to capture me in the first place. I was nearly completely recovered by the time you showed up.”
“…Really. It was all just for curiosity’s sake.” Alicia mumbled.

After dinner, Glitch showed her to a room that was easy to navigate to, telling her it wasn’t far from the kitchen, or the bathing pools. In the room, there wasn’t much of a door except a mossy blanket that could be let down like a large curtain. In the middle of the room looked to be a large but unkept nest of braided vines and packed earth.
“Here.” He said putting a couple knitted blankets in her hands. “In case it isn’t warm enough in here for you. I don’t know what temperature humans like.”
Alicia took them to the big nest. “Thank you Glitch. These are warm and lovely.” She smiled and rubbed her face in them. Glitch watched her and blushed a little, making her wonder if she did something weird, but quickly he looked away.
“Y-Yeah. Rivers’ down here on the left, don’t go wandering this place alone. Hide and seek is over.” He said over his shoulders before leaving.
He certainly doesn’t waste any time does he…
Alicia examined the room she was given to stay. She hoped that Wine and Coffee weren’t freaking out too much, or maybe they already know she’s safe? She had no idea. For now, she went to go see this river that Glitch felt the need to tell her about. Luckily there were this glowing lamps that lit the way for her and she easily located the river. “Oh, here it is.” She whispered to herself and crept a little closer, kneeling down and studying the water as it flowed. Maybe she could rinse her clothes off here and leave it to dry for tomorrow. With that idea settled, she went back to her room.
Alicia looked to the crevice that served as a closet with no door. Examining it for something she could use as a robe or wrap around towel, wrapped her body in it and went back to the river to start washing her clothes. Dirt and grass stains littered her shirt and pants, sweat in her socks and probably her undergarments too. She hummed a soft song to herself, scrubbing the stains from her clothing as much as she could. She hadn’t realized though, that the bank was giving way until it dropped her in the river with an unceremonious splash, sending her flailing about in the current. It wasn’t too hard for her to swim back to the surface and all at least, though she felt something big, fast and strong go around her body and pluck her out of the water, back onto the bank. Coughing and spluttering, she wiped her face clear of water droplets and swiped her hair out of the way, revealing the bright cyan eye of Nightmare watching her with a raised brow. “Are you uninjured?”
“Uh! Yes! I’m okay!” She stuttered quickly, her drenched shirt entangled tightly around her right arm. She felt her cheeks heat up from embarrassment by that. His tentacle still wrapped around her body as if extra support in case she wobbled.
He slowly let go of her when she was stable, “There’s that pool over there, we would wash our attire in, if you wish to us that instead.” He said casually gesturing the the pool in the corner that she wouldn’t have noticed had it not been pointed out to her.
“Oh…yeah that looks like a way better idea.” She mumbled and gathered the rest of her things, trying to save what dignity she had left. The bed sheet she was using to wrap around her body like a toga now hanging heavily around her body threatening to slide off if she wasn’t careful. It was already clinging to her in clumps.
Nightmare’s tentacle reached over and flicked on one of the glowing lamps for her which she politely thanked. Thee was even a bottle of detergent right there…now she really felt dumb and tried playing it off.
“You’re still up?” she asked him.
“I do not need sleep as much as others may. I was also drawn to your singing.” Nightmare looked bac at her. “ You’re not a bad singer, I might add.”
“Oh. Heheh, thank you. Lots of car singing practice.” Alicia half joked. She was always one of those people that sang in her car as loud as she could get without attracting anyone’s attention. She once made the mistake of doing a jig in her seat at a red light and didn’t know she was putting on a show for a couple of guys in the car next to her. Once the light turned green though, she sped off to leave that embarrassment behind. Still she sang whenever she was truly happy. She was actually quite happy now. She kept side glancing at Nightmare as he scooped up a large cup from some other shelf and dipped it in the river for a cool drink. Even in this relax mode, he looked so ethereal, so other worldly and yet exactly where he belonged. She looked back to her clothes, scrubbing the pants a little before ringing it and putting it to dry. When she looked back at Nightmare, he was looking pointedly at her now, making their eyes meet. Now a little flustered, she blinked away, looked back at him, smiled some, and looked back to her clothes in an effort to hide her newest embarrassment at being caught.
Nightmare chuckled behind her, she could feel his amused smirk at her back. “Curiosity, serenity, astonishment, shame, contentment, admiration, and now shame again.” He listed making Alicia now somewhat confused, until he fell silent and let her figure it out. He was describing all the feelings she had since coming to the river.
“You can read peoples’ emotions?”
“My brother and I can yes.” Nightmare confirmed. “I’m curious about that admiration, I must say. It happened as you were looking at me.” He slithered closer towards her. “Wonder what that’s about.”
Alicia took in a deep breath through her nose, now knowing how red handed she had been caught. “Y-yes. I was admiring you.” She mumbled some as she finished her socks. “You all seem so close knit here. They were ready to come rescue you but also trusted you that you could handle it. Then after you got attacked, held captive, all you did do was escape and not retaliate in rage, hating all the humans that tried to control you.”
Nightmare huffed in response to that. “It is simply Naga, or rather, monster kind in general to develop ‘close knit’ relationships. I find hating humans to be overrated. You all already do a good job hating each other for the most trivial matters anyway. I usually do not interfere with most of them directly unless my own curiosity is overwhelming.”
Alicia could appreciate and respect that, nodding in agreement. “Very true.” She said softly. “What’s it like, living without the same, erm, concerns we have? No bills, no risky career choices, or difficult people.”
Nightmare came to rest beside her. “I am not without concerns. My responsibilities are just greater than yours. The consequences I face can be more unforgiving and relentless.” Nightmare lazily turned to her, but his cyan eye was bright and full of ancient wisdom. “As one with a mortal body, you have a mortal life you have to learn to grow in. It is easy to get lost in, so easy that you forget how fleeting this mortal life is.” He suddenly looked as if he was getting...bigger, or taking up the whole room again and all she could really make out was his unblinking eye. “Immortals, such as myself, can influence a mortal’s life for better or for worse, especially if you do not believe we’re even there.”
“I believe you’re there!” Alicia added real quick. “I believe you’re all over the place!”
Nightmare chuckled, the ominous envelopment that the room had suddenly felt less ominous and more…safe and comfortable. He pat her head a couple of times. It didn’t feel as patronizing as she might have expected by it either. It seemed like he ‘shrunk back’ to his normal size and the lanterns in the room were noticeable again. There was a comfortable silence that fell over them now with nothing but her finishing up her clothes now. Once they were all washed and rung out, she gathered them up in one arm. “Thank you for spending time with me Nightmare. Hope you sleep well.”
“My pleasure. Sweet dreams.” Nightmare replied cordially as she passed by back to her room. There she hung up her clothes, got out of the wet sheet she was using as a toga, (wrapping another around her) and cuddling under the blankets in the nest.

Chapter Text

In the morning, Alicia woke herself up in a bit of a scare, having forgotten where she was. Thankfully the memories came back and she struggled to untangle herself from all the sheets and blankets. Groggily going to get dressed and try to navigate her way back to the kitchen. To her delight, even nagas like coffee, as a nice pot of it was made and sitting on the counter. She could still smell it’s tantalizing aroma. Getting up to the counter though, she was reminded of the height difference. Raising her arms to still try and reach the pot with a tiny groaning, she gave up and looked for which cabinet had the mugs too. So driven t get some coffee, she climbed onto t he counter and started searching each cabinet she could reach.
That’s also when Hunter decided to enter, guffawing at the sight of her. “What are ya doing little human?” He snickered.
She half glared at him as he was covering his mouth from laughing too loud. “I’m trying to find the mugs, for some coffee.”
Hunter casually slithered to a cabinet on the other side and plucked a mug out holding it as he said nothing but watched her face.
“…Thank you.” Alicia said anyway and sidled over to reach for it, but Hunter held it up even higher from her grasp. “Brooo, come on. Why you gotta be so mean first thing in the morning?” Alicia groaned as she tried to reach for it again when he lowered his arm just a little, still out of her reach though.
“You make it too easy.” Hunter snorted.
Finding the playfulness contagious, Alicia was now starting to smirk and impulsively play tackled him ti try and get to the cup. Hunter made a surprised sound at her boldness, quickly recovering before she could grab it though. His long body writhing about as she wrestled to stay out of his grasp. He started cackling at her brazen but silly attempt at trying to win, and honestly she was having too much fun to care about losing.
At least not until Alicia was winded and huffing, slowing down from the rough housing so early in the morning. “Okay…please give me the cup?” She huffed.
“What? Tired already? Didn’t get enough rest?” Hunter waved the cup above her head.
“Nooo.” Alicia half whined as she raised her hands above her head, holding them there with a mock pout at still not getting the mug. “Come on, I’m asking nicely here, what more do you want from me?”
Hunter smirked at her as his head moved closer to hers. “I got a few ideas.”
Alicia gave him a SUS leer as she waited in silence.
Hunter now made an over exaggerated kissy face.
Now it was Alicia’s turn to yelp, try to get away but of course blocked by Hunter’s tail coiling around her. “Let me LOVE you!” He said above her. “I want your LV!”
“Nuuu! I don’t even know what that is!” Alicia was now trying to get away from Hunter, Looking away in time to see Adze on the other side of the kitchen just grabbing a few ingredients…like nothings happening.
“Are you just going to ignore my plight?!” Alicia asked him. “You see he’s attacking me right?”
Adze side glanced them. “Hit the target on his chest.”
Hunter looked up at him. “You know it’s not a ta-AGH!” Hunter hissed as he swiftly reeled back, writhing defensively as he nearly flung her off him. He made such a violent hiss that Alicia began to regret the light bap she did. Black lines had begun to run down his sockets like trails of tears.
“Why would you tell her to do that?!”
“Why would you tell me to do that?!”
Adze didn’t even blink. “Most of the time it’s the only way to get you to stop.”
Alicia looked back to Hunter with an apologetic wince. “I’m sorry.”
Hunter sniffled as he recuperated. “Now I need two kisses.”
Alicia lightly snorted, she got up to start looking for another coffee cup instead. At seeing Hunter was perfectly fine again, she went to see if Adze needed any help with breakfast. He didn’t really ask her for much so instead she helped clean up any dishes that was used. Hunter was just watching them or sometimes messing with them as the others had come filtering in one by one.
At last Dream was nice enough to pass her a cup without her having to work for it.
Adze too her right side while Dream took her left side. She had eaten her belly full but Adze was giving her and odd look. One that she saw on Bear a couple of times till he got used to her smaller portions. She profusely thanked him for the wonderful meal, assuring that she was full. It seemed to relax him.
Alicia looked to Nightmare as he sat silently ingesting his meal. “Thank you for the wonderful accommodations, though, I do have to return home.” She tried to word it politely.
Nightmare’s cyan eye just gazed at her with an unreadable expression. She shifted in her seat some till she felt Adze’s heavy arm around her shoulders. “Now why would ya want ta leave us so soon? We’re just getting’ ta know each other much better.”
“Didn’t you just find out how much we’re willing to keep you?”
“Even if you ran away, we’d find you before you get too far anyways.”
“It’s the nest room isn’t it? Humans have weird needs to be met.”
“Heh, a series of caves is probably a is adjustment for you.”
At everyone’s comments, she started to get nervous. Were they going to keep her forever? “Uh..um..”
Nightmare’s eye wrinkled at the edges with a hint of mirth. “Enough people know you’d been kidnapped. I’d like to see how long it takes for them to find you.”
Alicia pursed her lips. “What if it takes a long time? And if they come here attacking?”
Nightmare hummed as if thinking over it. “Then hope you get comfortable.”
“But they are my friends. I’d rather you all not start swinging at each other.” Alicia pressed.
Dream smiled to her. “It’s alright Miss Alicia. Battling won’t be our first move, but wouldn’t it be a nice vacation from your usual routine? Please stay a while longer, and I have hope that your friends won’t take too long to find you.”
Alicia was still conflicted about it. Though everything seemed fine for the most part, she wondered if it was right to leave Wine and Coffee worried about her. Or maybe they knew she was safe anyway?
Guess she’d have to wait to find out. Good thing Wine was also her boss. Wouldn’t this be hard to explain to a human boss.

Later after breakfast and the others scattered about again to go do their own thing, Alicia found out that Adze was kind of a cuddle bug.
“Adze buddy, can’t breathe..”
Adze loosened his death grip hold on her enough that she was finally able to greedily gasp for air. The look that he gave her with that big red eye and baffled puppy face, tongue flickering like he was trying to get more feedback. It had her instinctively reaching out to pet him. Adze very much enjoyed that.
Once Adze had been soothed to a nice cat nap, Alicia quietly snuck away to go stretch her legs and explore a little. There was an odd sound that she couldn’t place, lie talking but nothing coherent until she got closer, tip toeing down the tunnel until the sounds became clear and it was a sobbing sound.
Being as quiet as she knew how (which was impressive for a human) she peeked around the corner in a room where she saw Ash, his back to her and hood pulled way over his skull, shoulders bowed as he looked utterly full of despair. She even thought she saw white boxes starting to flicker around his head..?
Nightmare in front of him, soothing him with some comforting words. His arms and tentacle went around Ash in a hug and his eye glowed a little brighter as he said ‘sleep.’
Ash’s body relaxed into his as his words turned to mumbles and quiet snores.
She stood up again, walking away now to give them some space again. It both bewildered and impressed her that someone like Ash was would openly seek solace and Nightmare being the one to give it. She gained a whole new respect for both Nightmare and Ash.

Later, she saw Glitch comfortably knitting outside in the shade, going to compliment his work. She found out it was him that knitted the blanket she was using on the nest, and slowly learned how to do a basic knitting. She also learned that he loved DIY projects of almost any sort. From making his own soap, showing her how to make monster candy. Glitch tended to have a kind of grumpy demeanor at times, but he wasn’t incapable of smiling at least.
Glitch seemed to be happiest when he wasn’t sitting still for too long, something she could completely relate to. He shared with her a few things about monsters, like how they CHECK people. The difference between LOVE and LV, and souls and their colors. In the passed hundred years, msny other color categories have been added than just the main seven. Glitch had no qualms pulling her into her first ENCOUNTER to learn how monsters typically battle. Glitch looked at her with his own questionable expression about her soul. Monster souls are white because they have a little of every color, hers was right side up with a silver glow to it and opaque colors in it.
“…Anomaly..” Glitch rumbled.
“Wut?” Alicia now fixed him with a comical leer. “You are a half snake half skeleton being. I’m a human. Who are you calling anomaly?” She joked with him.
Glitch grunted. “Your soul. I’ve never seen one like this before. Gotta study it.” He said as he just suddenly plucked up her soul. She felt like a giant hand just wrapped around her whole body, an invisible pressure giving the illusion like she was having trouble breathing. “Uh, Glitch?”
The naga’s eyes flicked back to her as he grinned. “Yep! You have the ultimate control over the person when your soul is in their hands. They get hypersensitive to every touch and there’s nothing they can do to escape it until you let go. You can destroy them and take their power as your own, or, you can show mercy and kindness. It all depends on your Intent.” Glitch’s hold on her turned from an oppressive force to a safety blanket around her, and he didn’t really do anything different. He did let her hold his soul though to ‘make things even’ for a bit before they dismissed the encounter.

She had never felt so…exposed and helpless before in a long time. It really unsettled her, even if she didn’t at all regret learning from Glitch. It was a lesson that was going to be hard to forget after that.
The following evening, she wasn’t even sure how much sleep she really got. Passing the time with exercises, stretches, a bath, midnight snack, nothing was doing the job.
Until of course Hunter showed up and scared the ghost out of her, snickering like a mischievous kid about it.
“Hilarious.” Alicia droned at him, not really offended by it. It didn’t take long to get used to him since he already acted like the kid brother in the group.

“If souls are so sensitive, why do you keep yours out like that?” She asked him.
“I’ve got a condition that has my soul out like that.” Hunter answered casually.
Alicia side glanced him. “ May I ask what kind of condition? Does it happen often with monsters?”
Hunter shook his head with a half shrug. “ Nah. It’s not an everyday cold or flu. There was a lot of, trauma that happened in my life. Over the years it changed me a lot. It’s questionable if my souls is only half monster and half human from all the exposure over the years. Hey, at least I’m not a lost soul. That’d be even worse.”
Alicia chewed on her lip habitually as she asked the next obvious question.
“A lost soul, usually also caused by trauma, and no one around ta really help you out of it. Yer face gets covered in Blind Boxes and most of the time it’s like ya can’t even recognize yer friends and loved ones. It’s another extreme case.”
Alicia took some time to let this new and odd information settle in as she tried to imagine it. She wondered if that might have been what was happening with Ash before Nightmare intervened.
“It’s curable right?” She had to ask.
Hunter nodded his head. ‘Mm-hm. It is, it just takes some time and patience mostly. They can be real dangerous and hurting them isn’t affective. You gotta appeal to their emotional side. That wouldn’t work too much on me as in my case, I can’t really feel emotions very well.”
“What would help you if you’re feeling, uh, really bad?”
Hunter smiled an even bigger grin as he regarded her. Without another word, he plucked her up carefully and entered her nest room, going to the big nest and curling himself in it with her as his teddy bear essentially. “For real?” She piped.
“For really reals.” Hunter grinned as he snuggled her.
It actually, wasn’t that bad. She was warm, comfortable enough to get sleepy and thankfully drift off to bed.

In the morning though, came another surprise, as now her room was slightly crowded with everyone having joined in the puppy pile, or naga pile, limbs and tails all over the place. For a bunch of scales and bones, they sure could give some warm and fluffy feels right in the heart.
Carefully she picked her way out of the room, trying not to disturb anyone too much. In the kitchen, she made her coffee with no disturbances and spent the quiet of the morning with Ash. MUCH, much more preferred company than waking up having to wrestle for your coffee.

She made no mention of what she witnessed with him and Nightmare, also wanting to respect their more private ordeals. Ash was a pretty chill guy, just wanting to relax most of the time. He did enjoy strategy games with her, and he even helped with her defense training against monster attacks. He was the chill, big brother.

While Alicia was beginning to worry some about when her friends were going to find her, she started walking and exploring the caves again. Eventually her aimless wandering brought her to another large archway that had fresh air gently blowing from it.
In a room that looked like a carefully cultivated garden that also had plants that Alicia had never seen before, immediately drew her in, almost like a hypnotized state, the place was just too beautiful, bright and pleasant to resist for long. Stepping into the place, she was careful of even trying not to step on the grass too hard until she finally relaxed enough to just walk.
She kneeled down to admire some multi colored passion flower looking plant, then followed a quiet little stream that weaved about the place.
The place looked like some fairy garden to her, and she found herself fantasizing about maybe starting something like that back at the manor. Well, that is IF the other roommates wouldn’t mind her starting a garden. That shouldn’t be an issue right? Wasn’t against any of the rules…
Back to walking and admiring the place, she rounded a left turn where a soft, golden light beckoned her curiosity.
Then, there he was. Another shining or glowing snake creature with scales that looked to be white and gold. A flowing poncho and hood of the same color scheme that moved like it was under water and a sky blue long sleeve shirt under it as he levitated in the air. She couldn’t tell if she was seeing multiple scarves or were they three pairs of wings, one set being his arms and the other sets along his body…?
and were there two halos encircling where his eyes should be?
“….” Alicia had nothing to even think of to say.. she stared at this other worldly creature until it stopped ‘swimming’ in the air to stare back at her. It’s first pair of wings spread out swiftly and that was enough to make her run.
Or at least she would have, had he not cut off her escape. He swiped the halos from his face to reveal the entirety of Dream, Nightmare’s brother, smiling at her in a kind and serene smile. “Heh…be not afraid?” he half joked.
“I uh, I’m sorry for intruding and disrupting your….day.” Alicia tried to throw out an apology.
“It’s alright human. I was only meditating anyway. I’m really happy you’ve come to visit here.” Dream said as he sank to the ground and the glowing around him disappeared. “It looks like you’ve been having fun with the others too. It’s made us all a little more jubilant.”
“Really? Just by little ole me? Haha, I highly doubt I’ve done all that now.” Alicia answered, fidgeting with her fingers some.
Dream giggled softly. “Believe me, you have. Your positivity has given me a real boost in my own energy reserves.” He held out his arms suddenly, the clear indication of asking for a hug. At which Alicia couldn’t help but oblige. His hug was so warm, energetic and he nuzzled right into her with a contented sigh. “I could hug you all day…” he sighed. Though he caught what he just said and smiled apologetically. “Sorry! I didn’t mean that to sound weird!”
“It’s okay Dream. I’m not bothered by it.” Alicia replied petting his head. Dream’s tongue flicked out as he smiled and purred in the petting. She giggled softly at the bright naga’s playful and lovable behavior.
At the side of her vision, she saw Roam slithering up, watching them with a soft, almost tired look as the two regarded him. “Hm, what am I interrupting here?”
“Nothing.” Alicia said quickly.
“Just cuddles.” Dream added. “Want to join us for a little bit?”
At this, Roam shrugged and came over to half coil around them in a comfortable pile. Alicia moved to hug him or pet him too if he liked it.
Dream smiled to them both and after a few nice seconds he spoke again. “I did agree to talk with you here Roam, If you want it to be just us though, we can go somewhere else.”
Roam’s eye lights looked over to Alicia once more before he shrugged again. “I don’t care if Miss Alicia stays or not.”
Well if he didn’t mind then of course she was going to stay. Alicia wouldn’t ever say it out loud but she was the nosy sort.
Roam was perhaps the most stand-offish of them all. He would participate in group games and chats, but he never hung around to just, hang around. He had a very solemn face when he thought no one was looking, always slithering about like he had a lot on his mind.
No way she’d pass up the chance to get to know him better.

Roam let out a soft sigh before he started. “It’s, been getting worse. Sometimes I can shake it off. But it comes back either like a sore muscle, or a full-on ache in my chest. I try telling myself that I was just trying to do what I thought was right. But was I just being stubborn after all?” Roam growled in agitation some. “I hadn’t realized that, the friends I had trusted were leading me down the wrong path whether they meant to or not. And I tried to appeal to both sides of the table but, that only made things worse. I couldn’t even stand to be there anymore, so I left and eventually Nightmare and Dream found me. As grateful as I am for the welcome, I can’t shake off the guilt, the anger, the drama.” The black and white naga summarized his situation.
Even with that much, it still sounded like a great to of baggage to unpack there. Right now, all she could think of to do or say was to show some compassion. Getting away from the pressure for a while sounds like what Alicia too would have preferred to do too.

It was Dream who broke the silence, a pensive look on his face for the time before he decided to voice his thoughts.
“The truth is, forgiveness is very easy to understand but not easy to carry out. Because, it doesn’t change the person that hurt you, it changes you though. I’m not sure who came up with the ‘forgive and forget’ phrase, but that’s not how it works.” Dream shook his head before continuing. “I mean, how many times do you remember someone and you only remember how they hurt you? It’s a daily practice you have to stick with like any exercise in order to get the results that needs to happen. Results like, setting yourself free of the pain, or the bitterness. The health problems that the hurt in your soul could cause to your body over time. If you don’t learn to do it right, you’ll hold yourself hostage in a prison you don’t deserve to be in.” Dream explained.
Cross had a look of understanding on his face as he digested this information while Alicia, pretending to look chill and calm on the outside, felt in awe at the explanation being so well exemplified. She already knew forgiveness was important and not easy to carry out, she just couldn’t have thought of a better way to say it herself.
Man, she felt like she could learn a whole lot from these nagas if she chose to stick around.
Things didn’t feel like a hostage situation any longer but more like a big weekend sleep over. There was never a dull or bored moment, as she could choose to tag along with whomever she was feeling in the mood for. Strategy and defense training, cooking and art, wisdom and self-discipline, DIY projects and handy tips for fixing things, it just seemed like there wasn’t enough time in the day to her.
Or enough weekend for that matter, as when she was with Adze, just chilling on top his tail, the two heard an unusual ruckus and went to go check. Just outside of the mouth of the caves, was none other than Wine and his brother Coffee, dressed like they just stepped out of a military superhero movie and ready to tie Glitch and Hunter into pretzels.
Nightmare and his brother sitting at the side with snacks in their hands just watching the fireworks. Ash slowly popping his head up to join the audience. Glowing eye lights and bones were all over the place until Adze and Alicia joined.
“Miss Alicia!” Wine exclaimed when he saw them. “I feared the worst!”
“Wine! Coffee! Good to see you both!” Alicia waved. She looked over to Nightmare, Dream and Ash though. “ Were you three really just going to sit and watch the show if a fight broke out?”
“The fight already started, but yeah. I was.” Ash grinned.
“We were going to intervene if it got too dangerous.” Dream tried to justify.
Coffee didn’t look like he believed it, but dismissed his bone attacks.
Wine straightened up back to his regal stance. “Indeed it is a relief to see you must have been treated well. We have come to escort you home now Miss Alicia and we will leave peacefully if no one tries to object again.”
“What if she doesn’t want to leave?” Hunter grinned challenging again.
Coffee now flashed his best puppy pout at Alicia who had to look away before the cuteness overload was too much. “I would like to return home,” Alicia clarified loud and clear, “But, may I come back and visit?” She asked.
“I’ll hold you to that.” Adze grinned as he let her down.
Nightmare nodded in agreement while Dream smiled. “Of course you can. And we’d be happy for Wine and Coffee to join us next time too if they’d like.”

Alicia bade farewell to all the nagas before leaving with her friends back down the mountain trail.
She passed the time asking them questions on how they managed to track her or what became of the zoo keeps now not allowed to keep nagas in there.
The trek down was easy and his car wasn’t far as they passed time sharing stories.

“Worry not miss Alicia, I shall ensure that you are properly compensated for all the trouble this caused. I’ll write you a check, why don’t you take tomorrow off to get some rest.” Wine said as he drove them all back to his store.
“Heh, I won’t say no to more money, thank you very much.” Alicia replied. It seemed at the mere mention of resting, fatigue had already hit her hard. She couldn’t’ wait to get home and sleep.
She hugged Coffee once more, and with Wine, thinking to be more professional, she shook his hand. Wine chuckled at it all and bade her a good night.
She put on some songs she liked and sang all the way home, unashamedly a ‘car singer’.
Pulling up to the driveway, in her usual parking spot, she wondered if she should go straight to the backyard and greet Bear and Lion first or go inside and wash up.
Actually why was she even debating this? She probably stank! Definitely a wash up first.
Grabbing her bag, she walked to the door and unlocked it softly, coming inside and closing as she entered. There wasn’t much noise in the house, and she wondered if anyone else was even home.
Though as she got to the first step of the stairs, she found out quickly.
“Alicia!” Jada shouted like an alarm, loud enough to make her startle as she looked to the living room where everyone was gathered.

“Oh.” Alicia piped softly and smiled. “ Hi everyone.” She waved. No one waved back however.
Her only responses were looks of anger, distaste, neutral, or in the case of Bear and Lion, a hint of concern. Though Bear seemed to shake like he was agitated and Lion covered his nasal cavity. The fact that he could smell her all the way there made her inwardly wince in embarrassment.
Jada had come up and hugged her. “Where were you?” she said in some slight over exaggerated drama.
“W-what?” Alicia said in a confused chuckled as she lightly returned the hug. “I was only gone the weekend.”
“That’s a long time to not say anything! I was calling you since yesterday.” Jada pulled back to look at her.
Alicia now more confused pulled out her phone. “Really? But my phone never went off.” She checked it. No missed calls.
“Hmph. Maybe it’s broken or something. But seriously you had us all worried!” Jada insisted.
“Did I?”
“NO YOU DID NOT!” Edge’s shriek cut through the air. “I WAS NOT WORRIED FOR YOU BUT FOR MY DATEMATE, WORRYING HERSELF OVER A NUISANCE LIKE YOU!”
Alicia held up her hands and turned away to go back up the stairs. “Oookay. I’mma just, see myself outtat here.” She mumbled to herself. Up the stairs she went until she saw Red teleport at the top of the stairs, blocking her from going. “Don’t yeh fuckin’ blow off my bro like that. You wreak!”
“Yes…That’s what showers are for.” Alicia said slowly.
His eye lighst flared, especially the left one with whisps of red magic wafting from it. “Ye got some nerve! Come in here, stinkin’ of other boss monstas’. Yeh found new clients maybe..”
Now Alicia scowled. “No.” she said sharply. “Nothing wrong with making new friends.”
Jada was at the bottom, Sans had slowly sauntered to her side, gazing up at Alicia and Red. “Hey Alicia, if you whore yourself out, no one’s judging you for that.”
“I’m not a whore.” Alicia said back at her. “I don’t partake in sexual activities like that.” She defended, until she was roughly pushed down by Red.
“A fuckin’ liar too!” he yelled as she tumbled unceremoniously down the stairs.
Papyrus gasped some. “RED! THAT WAS VERY RUDE!”
“An’ lyin’ ain’t?” Red growled.
Alicia grimaced and picked herself up, knowing no helping hand was going to come from Sans who just stood beside Jada and watched. With so many people watching she chose not to show any signs of pains or reaction other than looking at Red like he had three heads. She just stood there, waiting for Red to move hopefully, which was also like a punch to her own pride, but she knew Sun Tzu’s rule.. ‘never attack when you have the low ground.’ So for now she just stood her ground and watched everyone’s move, now knowing that they could teleport really had her on edge.
Looking to Jada though, she acted… not the way Alicia expected. One minute she was pretending to be worried, and now that Alicia was actually attacked, Jada didn’t seem to really care. She was holding Sans’s hand tightly, even glanced once up at Red like he was a hero.
As a fellow adult, she shouldn’t have to check in with people who were nothing more than roommates, not actual friends. In fact Alicia was sure that if Jada hadn’t said anything, only Blue, Stretch, Bear and Lion would really care to notice.
Sans nuzzled Jada before turning a cold stare at Alicia. “Your life is yours to live how you like, but it’s only a considerate thing to not leave your best friends worried about you.”
Alicia immediately turned to Bear and Lion. “I’m sorry I worried you. I didn’t even know I wasn’t getting any signal.” She said sincerely to them.

“IT IS ALRIGHT HUMAN. I AM JUST GLAD YOU ARE SAFE.” Lion smiled.
Bear stiffly nodded, an unreadable look on his face.
Red eventually stomped back down the stairs, making the hairs of her neck stand up until he was far enough away from her. Alicia said nothing more and walked back up the stairs quickly, not wanting to be around such a tense group. Quickly she went up to her room, put her stuff down and went to shower off. Jeeze, she wasn’t expecting a welcoming party but certainly not that nonsense either.

RED

What the fuck?! Seriously what the fuck was up with that?! The balls on that bitch ta come walkin’ in this house, drenched in other boss monster scents, comin’ in this house like she owns the bitch! And my beautiful, sweet, angel of a datemate, all worried about her…and that bold ass woman couldn’t even appreciate it! AND she even LIED! The fuck is wrong with this human? She didn’t even say ouch when she was pushed, didn’t even curse at him or barely wince. And that stare! Red was reminded of a human he used to have to deal with a lot. The Chara from his Universe…One sadistic kid with a mad glint in their eyes all the time, laughed when they got hurt until Red finally managed to snuff the life out of the human….for the umpteenth time. Alicia looked at Red like she was calculating her next move, getting up from the floor like she was unshakable.…and he HATED it!
He remembered how courageous she was facing his mobster counterpart thinking he was being bullied.
Maybe this human did know a thing or two about holding her own. Realistically he’d need to be careful around her.
Maybe she thinks he is helpless…
useless…
a liability to his brother…

With each thought, he could feel his eye lights dimming until his sockets were completely black, and his sharp teeth bared in full display like he was about to bite someone. Anyone who made him feel weak deserves to find out the hard way why he isn’t a weakling. He was going to have a good time with that human.

BEAR

“Who are they? Who do you think those monsters were bro?” I ask while sitting in the kitchen of our home, one hand coming to scratch at the hole in my head habitually. I feel the deranged smile on my face creep up. “Where do you think they came from? How did they get here?”

“BROTHER, YOU’RE GETTING WORKED UP AND UNSETTLED AGAIN.” My brother turned back at me after making some chai tea for us. “HERE, THIS SHOULD HELP RELAX YOU.” He set one mug in front of me and one for himself as she sat across from me. “I DO NOT KNOW WHO THEY ARE OR HOW THEY GOT HERE. HOWEVER SKELETONS ARE NOT THE ONLY BOSS MONSTERS OUT THERE. IT COULD BE ANYONE…WHO REALLY ENJOYS THE OUTDOORS.”

I take a long slow sip of my chai. Something about this tea did always have a nice relaxing effect on me. I tried it when we first come to this universe and the ‘classic’ Papyrus made some for us all during a stormy night once. “Yeah, but there were so many scents.”

“INDEED THERE WAS. IT’S VERY SHOCKING. EITHER SHE MADE NEW FRIENDS OR…WHAT SOME OF THE OTHRS BELIEVE ABOUT HER MAY BE TRUE..,” Lion ponders out loud. His crooked smile only falters for a second though as he looked back at me. “WE’LL SIMPLY ASK HER ABOUT IT TOMORROW.”

I smile now too. “Yeah. Yer right bro.” I sip my tea again as I relax. I’m not near as paranoid or quick tempered as I used to be, but sometimes it does still come out. Knowing what kind of welcoming we received when we first showed up here, not even on purpose, but by that machine of Classic’s. They looked and treated us like we wanted to destroy the whole world. Sure, we were freaked out and semi feral, but being on the surface and being surrounded by life everywhere, food and seeing that we don’t have to kill and eat anything to survive really helped bring us back to our senses. Not to mention, his machine was powerful enough that the remaining monsters of our whole underground had ended up appearing on the surface. The first time I felt any kind of sympathy for my ‘classic’ version. He and his Undergound leaders had to round them all up like cattle and take them to a place that worked as a rehab for everyone. For most, it worked, but for the self-proclaimed queen Undyne and her unwaveringly loyal followers, they were locked up. Jailed I assumed if not dusted like they deserve. Even after the rehab though, it still wasn’t easy getting people to accept us. Hence why we have our own trailer here, tolerated by our ‘cousins’ who faced hardships enough to understand us…and still we’re the freaks.
For folks that were judges like myself, they sure were ignorant that time.
Actually maybe again in regards with Alicia.
Tch…Naïve little love sick fools.
Once my mug is empty, I rinse it in the sink, and go get ready for bed. Which usually just consist of me taking my shoes, socks and jacket off unless my bro wanted to wash tomorrow. Sleep was always my escape from the harsh reality, and even in this nicer one, I still very much valued it.

ALICIA

Work today was a great day. Run the boutique, train a little, and go home car singing. It put me in such a good mood, I almost didn’t want to talk to Jada about her boyfriends yesterday. However, I do need to know why they got so aggressive with me. Why they felt such a need and why she didn’t do shit but fake her worries.
Going through the front door, She could hear video games from the living room, and the faint smell of something cooking in the kitchen. Curiously, she went to the kitchen first and saw Razz there cooking diligently.
She smiled and decided to greet him. “Smells good. Whatcha’ cooking?” She smiled.
The gesture was not returned however. Only a sneer over his shoulder at her. “Taco spaghetti, a favorite to MY datemate.” He said as if Alicia was supposed to catch any warning from that. She really didn’t understand why he said it that way.
“Would you like any he-“
“NO I DO NOT WANT ANY HELP FROM YOU, YOU UNGRATEFUL STRUMPET!” Raz snapped so hard and loud that Alicia thought that maybe she even heard his teeth snapping in between his words. She held up her hands and backed away. “Nevermind.” She mumbled and quickly left the kitchen. Guess he still hated her. So she went to the living room and saw Stretch and Red playing video games. They both glanced at her, no doubt having heard Razz’s tantrum. “Afternoon gents.” She tried.
Red didn’t spare her a reply and Stretch had an unreadable look on his face again. “….How’s everyone?” She tried asking, but the awkwardness just increased. Rubbing her head, she thought of what else she could say. “Uhm, about yesterday. I wanted to say sorry, although, I don’t fully understand what got ya’ll so bent outta shape.”
“Bitch!” Red snapped first. “The balls you got!” he glared at her. Though all Alicia could respond was with a raised brow at the odd accusation…
He roughly tossed his controller down as the game was paused. “You think yer so much better than us, flaunting yer nasty shit where we all gotta smell it.” He stood up now facing her, from the farthest side of the couch. Stretch looked in between the two of them.
“W-what?” Alicia shook her head some as she gazed at Red incredulously. “If you obviously don’t like me why would I think you’d be worried about me?”
“No one’s fuckin’ worried about you except my sweetheart. And when you mess with her or my bro, now I gotta a bone to pick with you.” Red growled out.
Alicia tried to keep her own tone even. “ I didn’t have service was all.” She said evenly, though on the inside every fiber was telling her to run before he put hands on her again.
“ ‘Course not, too busy ‘serving’ others. How much whore money did ya get?” Red spewed.
“I’m not a prostitute. I’m just trying to make amends here.” Alicia growled back with an unimpressed look.
As soon as Red was starting her way again she didn’t waste any time and quickly spun on her heel. Nevermind.” She mumbled under her breath as she scrammed. Definitely didn’t need anymore of his overly aggressive, short tempered, violent for no reason, impulsive little shit attitude.
Jeeze these skeletons are moo-OOO-oody!
Do skeleton monsters have unstable serotonin and estrogen just like human women? (The most common root cause of moodiness)
Alicia sighed through her nose as she went to put her backpack up in her room. Guess talking to the monsters wasn’t really the best idea right now. So maybe she’d just have to chat it up with Jada again.

Luckily, it was as easy as meeting her in the backyard getting some sun. “Hey Jada.”

She lifted her head and took off her sunglasses. “Oh hey Alicia.” She said and sat up better. “How was work?” She asked in a half interested tone.

“Busy actually. Lots of customers today.” Alicia answered honestly as she came to sit down in the next lawn chair. “What’s up with your boyfriends though? What the hell got their panties twisted in a bunch?”

Jada lightly snorted at the humorous question. “What do you mean what the hell? You were gone without a trace for the whole weekend. We were all worried about you.”

“You know that’s a lie.” Alicia fixed her with a stern gaze. “ None of them are ever worried about me, or I wouldn’t have to come to you about Sans’s threat. Which he has stopped thankfully but now Red has taken it to the next step. You saw how he pushed me and you call that worrying?”

Jada made an annoyed sigh as she rolled her eyes, which only pissed Alicia off more. “So what do you want me to do?! Talk to Red too?!”
“Talk to all of them to stop being an ass to me. I wasn’t ignoring you on purpose. I wasn’t trying to piss anyone else off so it sure wasn’t justified for them to come at me like that.” Alicia stood her ground, trying to control her own flaring temperament.

“Ohh my god I’m not your mom.” Jada groaned. “Can’t you just ask them yourself?”

Alicia felt her jaw tense, “I did that and they wanted to start a fight with me again. You seem the most level headed here so if they hear it from you, it shouldn’t be such a drama.”
Jada cast her own wrinkle-nosed sneer. She got up from the lawn chair and started just walking away. Alicia watched her go for a second before following her, since she wasn’t even going towards the house.
“You were there yesterday. You know that’s not right.” Alicia pressed. “It wasn’t the first time they’ve wanted to hurt me either. I just want some comradery here-“
“but you’re causing all this grief.” Jada snapped.
“Oh come on, you and I both know you weren’t that concerned about my absence. And that’s fine, but we can at least have everyone get along.”
Jada stomped her foot, whirling around to face Alicia. “Stop pestering me about this! It’s your damn fault you wanted to go missing and someone expresses a little concern and you’re too good for it.”
Alicia fixed her with a deadpanned, unimpressed look. “Suuure, if it was real sympathy. I’m just asking you to ask your boys to stop threatening and hurting me.”

Jada threw her hands up. “Oh but it’s okay for you to come bully me into solving your issues?”

Alicia fought to stay calm and not yell back. “I’m asking for help. Lady to lady here.”

Jada put her hands on her hips. She was one of those girls who tended to ‘talk with their hands’ at times. So her hands were almost always moving when she got animated. “Ugh! You were always like this! So quiet, so shy, introverted, whatever! Couldn’t hold a candle for yourself! Noone started a fight with you because you’re tall, but say one mean thing to you and that was enough for you to run to the school councilor. Here you are, a ‘lady’, and you still can’t do shit for yourself!”
She just let loose on her tantrum, verbally wailing on Alicia who was in such a stupor by this childish behavior that she couldn’t think of anything to do except look at Jada like she was crazy. It may have been a good thing…maybe. Because neither of them knew that they had attracted a bit of an audience.
At least not till Alicia felt eyes on her back and at Jada, who’s eyes flicked behind her some. Alicia turned around to see Russ in all his silent, unblinking and circumspect glory. It made Alicia feel like the Eye of Sauron was on her…
“Everything okay babe?” The familiar baritone of Sans breaks her stare off with Russ. Said skeleton was sauntering up to Jada’s side again. Just sporting a pair of back pants with a baby blue shirt on, smiling the warmest smile Alicia had ever seen on Sans’s face. It caught her off guard that an ever smiling skeleton could actually express and even kinder smile.
Until he looked at her.
All the kindness went away.
That smile then, somehow, turned to more of a subtle snarl. “What’s wrong with you? Why you gotta cause an issue almost every time you come home?”

Edge now, in his clean outfit of black, red, and/or gold, also came marching up towards Alicia. Towering over her with a hands on hip glower. Eyelights a crimson bright anger as it bored down on her. Then lastly came Papyrus, looking the most worried with a tense grin

“INSOLENT PEST! YOU REALIZE YOU ARE NO MATCH FOR US AND SO YOU GO PICKING ON SOMEONE SMALLER! SUCH A COWARD’S MOVE!” Edge screeched.

Papyrus patted the air. “HOLD ON NOW, I’M SURE THIS IS ALL A MISNDERSTANDING.”

Russ, wordlessly just walks up to join everyone, quiet like a ghost, hands in his pockets, but around him was this dangerous demeanor that contracted his simple movements.

Jada had a look of surprise on her face that quickly changed to a big smile, and a shit eating grin when she looked at Alicia too, who was a floundering duck surrounded by alligators.

With little else, Alicia tried once again to plead her case. “I was trying to make amends, but the others I talked to were getting violent again. So I came to aske Jada if she could be their voice of reason again.”

Jada latched onto Sans’s arms. “Dude she followed me and wouldn’t stop and leave me alone about it. She’s always been a wimp like that though, so I can’t really blame her. But she was so persistent!”
Sans gently got his arm free to wrap it around her shoulder. “At least she knows good gal when she sees it.”
Alicia only blinked once at Jada, trying to control her grimace at the audacity of this woman. She turned back to Papyrus. (she totally would have asked him for help if she knew he was home.)
“I just want us all to understand each other and get rid of all the tension, we can just be roommates that get along.”
Papyrus watched her and his face had softened, his smile growing bigger with soft ‘nyeh heh’s’ emitting from him. “CERTAINLY HUMAN ALICIA. WE CAN ALL STRIVE FOR THAT.”
“IF YOU WOULD QUIT YOUR BULLSHIT FIRST!” Edge suddenly took back the spotlight, a clawed finger tip pointed at Alicia.
“What?! I’m not doing anything but coming back from work!” Alicia defended.
“Ya come back and harass our datemate,” Sans added. “-cause my cousins to get their panties in a bunch-“
“EXCUSE ME?!” Edge squawked.
“-breaking things, gone without a trace. Sounds like yer trying to bring yer history to us.” Sans continued. “Come on Jay, how ‘bout something to eat?” He said as he guided her back to the house. Over his shoulder he threw at Alicia. “and stop messing with Jada.”
At this, Alicia couldn’t completely hide the grimace.
Edge’s fists balled up and shook. “YOU HAD BETTER IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE HARMED AGAIN PEST! YOU DO NOT KNOW HOW FORTUNATE YOU ARE THAT MY QUEEN IS SUCH A KIND SOUL. OUR PATIENCE WITH YOU IS WANING QUICKLY AND YOU WILL NO LONGER BE ABLE TO HIDE BEHIND HER! STRAIGHTEN UP OR FACE THE CONSCEQUENCES!” With that second berating, Edge turned on his heel and marched back to the house.
Papyrus frowned after him. “ANYONE CAN BE A GOOD PERSON IF THEY TRY. NO MATTER THE STRUGGLE, IT WILL ALL ADD UP.” He said to Alicia before also leaving.

Alicia watched him go and almost forgot about Russ. She waited a heartbeat before tentatively speaking. “I really wasn’t trying to start anything. I…”
Russ only cast another dubious side glance at her, then he teleported away. Alicia’s shoulders dropped as her eyes went downcast. “…I just wanted to be okay.” She mumbled to herself. Putting her hands in her pockets, she thought about what to do for an hour, going back to the house right now just didn’t feel right, so maybe she could take a walk. Yeah, go somewhere no one can see her for a little bit.

There was suddenly a soft touch on her shoulder that made her flinch and spin. Behind her, someone Lion had walked up, quiet as a cat. His hand suspended in the air where her shoulder was, he smiled down at her with a soft expression. He had on an outfit he got from the thrift store, even though his eyes were hard to read, his body language wasn’t. his other hand rose up to a hug as he stepped forth and hugged Alicia, holding her and rubbing circles on her back.
For a short second, it hadn’t registered what he was doing exactly. Then she caught up to him and her arms went around him to complete the hug. Over the years, Alicia had practice stoicism in the face of bad situations. She didn’t want to cry over every little thing. She observed how to let go or handle things professionally. Wait till everyone’s gone, then let it out. That’s what she was going to do till Lion caught her. Offered her solace, and in this offer, a reminder that even the strong needed comfort sometimes. She wondered how many times Lion had to be strong for Bear during their harsh life.
She especially appreciated that he didn’t say anything yet. That would have broken the dam that held the tears back.
When she did regain her composure finally, she was the one to speak. “I’ve got to be missing a puzzle piece somewhere. I don’t understand why they act so mean towards me.”
“THEY ARE THE ONES WHO ARE MISSING PUZZLE PIECES. OR RATHER, THEY REFUSE TO BELIEVE THERE EVEN ARE MORE PIECES.” Lion said softly. One hand petting her head now.
“IF YOU WANT, YOU MAY COME EAT DINNER WITH US WHEN IT IS READY. UNTIL THEN, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO? I CERTAINLY DO NOT MIND HUGGING YOU MORE IN OUR TRAILER, OR IF YOU NEED SPACE, WE WILL WAIT FOR YOU.”
At this, Alicia’s eyes widened some, impressed by Lion once again. Most people assume that their first idea is the best cure for everyone, when really the more appreciated route was to ask them what would make them feel better and be there with them. Alicia, being a sigma lady, did want her solitude for a bit.
She smiled up at Lion. “Thank you. I’m going for a walk, and then I’ll come for dinner.”
Lion kindly smiled to her once more before turning her lose again and with a warm ‘see you at dinner.’ His long legs carried him back to his home.
“Wow.” Alicia said to herself as she turned for a walk. Lion sounded like he must have done that a lot. Like it was second nature for him to help comfort people.
Alicia now stood up straighter with now heavy bow of her shoulders. No longer weighed down by the previous drama dump. She walked around the property, listening to things, thinking of nothing much as she just meandered for a time. Finding a shady spot to sit down and sort her feelings out. Suddenly getting kidnapped by the nagas sounded like a great idea now. Taking a deep breath and sighing, she talked out her thoughts, acknowledging her feelings and once she was done, she got up to go eat dinner with Bear and Lion.

Chapter Text

Alicia listened to one of her podcasts until she got into the neighborhood. Then she put it on pause to focus on which house she was supposed to stop at. It was fairly easy, and in a neighborhood mixed of both humans and monsters. Getting on her phone, she called the number to the customer, which for some reason the name was The Bratastic Brainiac.” As the customer…Is she supposed to say that over the phone? With a sigh, she went ahead and made the call.

“Hello!” A loud voice answers the call making her wince some.
“Yes, good afternoon. This call is for Mister….Bratastic Brainiac?”
“Who is this?!” The voice demands as it picks up her call.
“Tis is Alicia with Home Supply Delivery. I believe I am right outside your house with your new entertainment unit.”
“…Yes you are. We will be right out shortly. Brother! How could you use-“
The customer ended the call as he ranted at his brother, tipping Alicia off to suspecting that it must have been him that actually put the order in.
Smirking in humor to herself, she slid out of the company truck and meandered over to the trailer where she started to undo the straps.
Just as she was doing so, the customers come out, still bickering about that nickname that was put on the delivery ticket. Alicia slung the lose end of the strap over as she straightened up, temporarily freezing at the sight of the two customers.
It was the purple skeleton brothers from before. The ones who come over to the manor when some kind of important meeting is called.
“YOU?!” The shorter of the two exclaimed as they came to the end of the driveway.
“My thoughts exactly.” Alicia said casually as she recovered quick enough to get to the second strap.
“Well, fancy meeting you here.” The taller guy said. “How’s everyone at the manor?”
Alicia didn’t have a verbal answer for that, other than a weak shrug and quirking of her brows. The truth was that it was bad nearly every time she showed up, but she couldn’t just tell them that. So she opted not to answer much. The skeleton helped unlatch the tailgate and lower it. “What was your name again?”
“Alicia. Yours?”
“Cash. And my bro here-“
“Is Black and definitely not that crude nickname that my silly brother thought to put on there!” Sais brother popped out from around Cash with comical energy.
“What nickname? I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Alicia replied evenly. A small smile coming to her lips at seeing Black visibly relax.
Alicia started to carefully cut the saran wrap lose and take one box at a time. The brothers jumping in to help. “How have you all been?” she started idle chatter again.
“One day at a time in paradise.” Cash answered.
“Indeed!” Black agreed with a big smile. “We have a list of projects that we have been rigorously working on! We’ve crosse two of them off the list.”
“Oh really? Congratulations. I admire your self-discipline.” Alicia compliments as he helped them unload box by box.
Black seemed to beam at the compliment, while Cash quirked his own bone brows with a subtle smirk.
“Well I can see that you are a very hard worker.” Black went on to say. “That I can admire.”
“ ‘Preciate it.” Alicia replied cordially.
Once the last of the boxes were on the patio, Alicia dusted her hands some, gazing at the successful delivery.
“Is there anything I need to sign?” Cash asked her at the side.
“No sir. We’re all good. Ya’ll have a good day.” She said turning on her heels to leave.
“Wait human! I must tip you!” Black said as he suddenly marched into the house.
“Oh. That’s kind of him.” Alicai said to Cash now since Black had bustled away.
“Yeah. My bro is pretty adamant about recognizing good work ethic and all that.” Cash smiled some.
“More people should be like that.” Alicia replied.
Out Black came after a few minutes grinning proudly. “Here you are human. This should cover a healthy lunch!” He said tipping her a twenty. Alicia took it with a shocked face that morphed to gratitude. “Thank you kindly sir!” she said with a big smile.
“But of course!” Black answered with a laugh of his own.
Alicia bade goodbye once more before hopping bac in her truck and driving off.

EDGE

The smell of my latest dish permeates the kitchen and the living room. I smiled victoriously at seeing the melted triple cheese layer on top. I found a recipe for Italian roulade and had to try it with my own added expertise of course. I pulled it from the oven and set it on top, letting it cool while I cleaned up the last of the kitchen mess. Mutt was sitting at the dinning table working on some things on his lap top, homework to something by my guess.
My dear queen Jada walked in with a few bags from the store, taking a big whiff of the mouth watering aroma. “Oh my god Edge ah! That’s smells wonderful!” She threw her arms around me in a hug, her lips puckered expectantly. And I deliver of course, kissing her deeply like she liked it.
“Made with you in mind my queen.” I answered with a purr that she liked to hear from me.
Jada’s face lit up just as I knew it would, (I know what my date mate loves better than any of us)
She leaned up to kiss me in a long smooch that had me forget what I was doing.
“Mmm. Edge you should have your own cooking show.” She said after kissing me. Then her smile turns flirtatious as she nuzzled me. “Your food, and you with me, in the bath or on your bed. Maybe I’ll be your plate tonight. How’s that sound?”
“You’re Making Me Hungry Already.” I reply with a growl instead of purring. We kiss for a long time once more before we part. She went outside now, going to get the last few grocery bags she had in her car.

Just as I set the sides on the table next to the main course, I see the other human walk by out the corner of my eye socket. She paused for a second, eyeing my meal with quirked brows. Longingly.
I stared back at the pest with an angry frown. “DO NOT EVEN THINK YOU WILL GET ANY OF THIS. YOU DO NOT DESERVE ANY!”
The human’s eyes flicker to me as the dimwit takes a second to register my words. Her eyes flick back at the food for another lingering second before she leaves. Had I not been watching her eyes, it would be very hard to tell what she is thinking these days. I the great and terrible Edge however, am very observant! I see that hungry rat look!
“COMING IN HERE TO COOK AND LEAVE YOUR MESS ABOUT. THEN HAVE THE GALL TO WANT MORE.” I hope I say loud enough for her to hear me.
“She never eats our food.” Mutt said suddenly. I had actually forgotten he was even there…
“WHAT?”
“She never even comes in this kitchen except to fill up that gallon water pale she takes to work.” He explained lazily looking up to me. “She never eats anything from this kitchen.”
“THEN HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN THE DIRTY DISHES ENCRUSTED WITH FAKE CHEESE AND CRUSTY NOODLES ALL THE TIME?”
“Jada loves mac an’ cheese.” Mutt answers easily. “She likes to make that a lot.”
I stare at him scandalized. “YOU…DARE ACCUSE JADA OF LEAVING HORENDOUS MESSES?”
“It’s not just an accusation if it’s true.” Mutt looks back at me with that neutral, annoying gaze of his.
“YOU REUSED A GOOD DATE MATE WHEN YOU HAD THE CHANCE. IT DOES NOT MEAN YOU GET TO MAKE UP BULL SHIT ABOUT HER.” I answer.
Mutt’s burnt orange eye lights flick back to me with a rare but hard stare of his own. “If you think it’s bullshit, why don’t you watch her yerself?”
The others begin to flock o the dinning room so for now, I let it go.

Alicia

Alicia had frown to really enjoy her walks with Bear or Lion. The both of them were excellent company. Learning from each other, boosting each other up when their spirits were down or comparing monster vs human morals. Bear wasn’t as into a scriptural lesson as Alicia, but he did always lend an ear when she wanted to talk about it. So long as he could snack through it too.
“Why deny yerself something that makes ya happy again?” Bear asked.
“One, it exercises self discipline which is extremely important for successful and fulfilling lives.” Alicia answered smiling. “ Two, because if it’s something that ony brings you temporary joy in exchange for your health both mental and physical, then in the long run, it isn’t a good things to have in your life in the first place.” She explained with all the patience in the world. She was used to Bear having a bit of a memory problem at times. “Like surgary treats for example. I love me a good ice cream….nice cream too, but I can’t have it every day or my health will be at risk. In fact if I want lady abs, I have to be on an extremely strict diet.” She said dreamily. She did have a secret goal to have abs like those extremist ladies. Wouldn’t that be an awesome goal…
“One day I’d like to try the thirty day water fast, just to scratch it off my bucket list.” Alicia grinned.
“Absolutely not! Do you know how much weight you would lose? You’d be one of those anarexics!” Bear barked in shock.
Alicia giggled at his shocked face. “ It’ll be more like a water fast though. Not a complete cut off of everything.”
“That’s even worse!” Bear snarled.
Alicia chuckled softly. Bear however was not chuckling. “Oh you think I’m joking around? Fasting is no joke. I had to survive eight years of starvation before coming here. Tch, if yer doin’ it fer weight loss, that’s not the way to go.”
Alicia patted the air. “It’s not like that. Water fasts are not for losing weight. In fact if you do lose weight during a water fast it’s because you’re already obese.” Alicia’s smile came back. “ Wouldn’t it be marvelous if I could mark it off my bucket list and say I did it for thirty days, just like in the biblical days. Actually I did used to fast till 6pm each day. Did it for about a week.”
Bear, looked like he was getting more angrier by the minute, making Alicia’s smile falter to a much weaker one that was laced with worry. “Uh..it’s not that terrible.”
Bear turned his bright red eye at her. “You’re going to starve yourself for no reason! Yer going to fast and starve just because the human body can do it?!”
A look of understanding finally dawned on Alicia’s face. “ Ohhh! I didn’t explain it properly. Lemme try again.” She started. “So, it is a fact that the human body can go up to thirty to forty days without food and just on water alone. They did it in the biblical times to show their devotion and to grow their relationship with God. So, if I build myself up to it, in a healthy way, I could also grow my own relationship with God, get rid of bad eating habits, and complete an amazing feet our bodies can do.” Alicia patiently explained. She paused to watch Bear, who didn’t seem satisfied with her answer in the slightest. Her shoulders dropped. “I’m sorry I upset you. I didn’t mean it that way.”
Bear growled under his breath. “Killing yourself for God is not worth it. Surely, yer God wouldn’t want that.”
Alicia now looked a little baffled. “It, doesn’t kill you though. Who told you water fasts kill people? That’s never been true, unless they were really stupid about it somehow. It can actually improve your health by giving your- humans’ digestive system a break. Especially interval water fasting is not deadly and good for a lot of people.”
Bear let out a nasty and animalistic sounding snarl as his leer illuminated her whole face. “ You need water to live damnit!”
Now Alicia was even more confused, and it clearly showed on her face. “…Do you know what a water fast is? It’s just when you avoid food. You can have as much water as you want, and just avoid food to a certain time frame.” She said softly.
That did nothing to die the angry flame that Bear had now turned into. His fingers now sharpened into claws, his normally charming and husky demeanor now turned like a menacing grizzly with all his fangs out on display. “You wanna kill yerself to be closer to God? Fine! Be that kind of idiot! You’ll die in the first week I’m sure! You think you can last without food? Good Luck! I really cared about you, I did! You have fun dying! Hope you’re proud of yourself and that god worships you for it!” He was so loud that he was practically roaring at her at the top of his ‘lungs’. No doubt even the neighbors could have heard him..
Alicia now held up her hands in a placating manner. “Woah woah woah! Let’s back track a little here.” She tried. “ I didn’t mean…Bear?”
Bear had turned on his heels and stormed off abruptly.
“Bear! Wait!” Alicia rushed off after him but before her next words could be said, he short-cutted away.
“…I’m sorry.”
Distraught with her friend so angry, all she wanted to do now was make up. Although she didn’t feel guilty about what she said exactly, water fasts really are an amazing feet that most humans don’t consider because it sounds virtually impossible and challenging as hell in a society where fast foods joints are on nearly every corner. She did feel bad that her friend was so genuinely angry at her.
It was hard to even imagine someone like Bear being immature either, yet here he was, blowing a gasket like a young twenty year old. The best thing to do now was give it time. Maybe wait till tomorrow and try again.

The next day, her first thought in the morning was Bear and Lion. She wandered what they were thinking about her, what they thought of her now. It kind of made her nervous if maybe she had lost her only friends in the house. That now, everyone was truly against her..
Shaking her head, she chose not to let her thoughts spiral like that. She had to have more faith in her friends than that. Surely they’d weigh the options and they’d be much more reasonable than that.
Right?
Maybe she might get some kind of apology gift for them…It would be a good excuse to not stay here and get blamed for something again. She was also a little tired and staying in sounded tempting. However she refused and made herself some simple breakfast. Over time, she had bought a microwave and a mini fridge for a few things. She washed her dishes in the bathroom sink before leaving,
She was far too busy thinking about making it up to Bear that she easily ignored any jibes or leers that were shot her way. She simply refilled her water tank with a plastic cup of ice and then water, thenwent on her way to work.
Evene then she was sorely tempted to ask Wine for his advice, but she didn’t want to lean on him for every little thing and paint herself as some kind of dependent accidentally. Standing on her own two feet still was an every day goal she strived for. Though when she would get home, she noticed that Bear was no where to be seen. Not even coming out to join her for their little walk.
When two days had passed, she stopped looking for him and decided to go to another park near her other job.

Taking a walk through the nice park and to the other side, she was what looed like a small crowd of people. It didn’t seem like much more than some simple spectacle, maybe a street dancer or something. Until she saw what resembled a taller monster who jerked and went down. As she got closer though she heard she words more clearly and they were not cheers, but jibs.
Alicia frowned as she got closer till she was right behind the crowd of people, some of which cleared out already no longer interested. On the ground there, was in fact another monster. He was clutching his ribs in a kneeled position grimacing at the ground. A skeleton that resembled Edge, though he had more of a pink blush on his face and even his eye lights were pink. A dirty footprint on his white suit indicated where someone had kicked him. “Ngh, this is one of my favorites.” He grumbled in quiet dismay about his shirt more than his injuries.
Alicia’s angled brows knit together in a frown, how was she going to scare off a crowd like this? She couldn’t just brandish her fire arm and think none of them are going to try and call her bluff, especially men trying to act tough too. However, bright maroonish light caught her eyes again and answered her question. Surrounding the monster was a ring of bones that went ten feet high.
“Alright humans! The show is over! Thank you all for being a lovely audience!” The skeleton got up and with a wave of his hands, he made the bones go outward, effectively pushing the humans further away.
“Hey! You can’t do that! That’s illegal without a liscense!” One human yelled.
The monster didn’t miss a beat, swiping something from a breast pocket and showing it off. “You mean this right here? Yes very good little humans, obeying the laws as you should. Run along now. Go make yourselves useful.” He summoned more bones and continued pushing the humans away until they gave up and backed off, not without a few slanders before finally dispersing. He released the bones once everyone had fully backed away within a safe distance. Alicia was the only one remaining as she watched, impressed by how well he was able to handle that all by himself. She wondered if he must have to do that often…

“Drat it all. My car is in the shop today so I have to call an Uber.” Pepper grumbled as he still looked dismayed at his ruined outfit.
“Do you live far? I can give you a ride, if you promise not to use those bones attacks on me.” Alicia half joked.
Pepper eyed her with a raised bone brow look of suspicion and disbelief. “Are you sure you want to be seen in public with the likes of me? Would it not make your own reputation questionable?”
“To be seen with a monster?” Alicia asked in a dry manner. “Like there aren’t hundreds of monsters already here anyway?”
“I’m not just any monster is what you fail to realize.”
“Right, skeleton with expensive tastes. My vehicle isn’t a limo but it’s free. Do you want the ride or not?” Alicia asked again.
The skeleton looked as if he was making a tough decision before finally answering. “Yes. I’ll take you up on that offer.” He got up and walked as if he wasn’t bothered by his newly gained bruises or his subtle limp. “Which way human?”
Alicia snorted lightly in humor as she took the lead. “I may have one stop along the way okay? It won’t take long.”
“Fine fine. It had better not be a dust shop.” He grumbled, making Aicia now make an odd face.
“Is that like the equivalent of saying a blood shop for humans? The hell is that?”
“More like the equivalent of a mortuary.”
“…I’m NOT taking you to a monster mortuary.” Alicia stated with resolution. “It’s just a drug store I was going to stop by before meeting you. Speaking of, What is your name?”
“And here I thought we were going to be stranger the whole ride through due to your lack of manners. I am Pepper.” He answered as he was led to her car. She unlocked it and climbed in while he opened the door, adjusted the seat to go all the way back and finally sat in. Though it almost looked as if he still didn’t have quite enough room.
“Nice to meet you Pepper. I’m Alicia.”
“Indeed. Musical name.” He said idly as he strapped in. He gave her directions on where to drive and thankfully there was a drug store Alicia had in mind. A monster one. She pulled in and parked. “Okay be right back.” She said before Pepper could object. If she pinned him right, his attitude towards getting help would be the same as Edge, so it was better to ask forgiveness than permission in this case. He could be playing it off or Alicia be too worried. After all she still didn’t really understand the levels of injuries for a monster too well. However, monster candy worked for all of them right?
Walking in, she was almost immediately lost and had no idea what to really get, so she asked a monster who looked like a deer for help. The deer monster showed her two options, vials of pure green magic but as on the pricey side, or a bag of monster candy with green magic in it. That’s the one she went with and bought two.
Coming back out, she went to the car to see Pepper having really made himself at home in her car, music playing and lounging back some. His eyes opened when she returned. “Here you go.” She dug one pack out and put it in his lap then proceeded to continue her drive.
“What? Human, why did you buy this for me?”
“You’re injured…wha’you mean why?”
“Do I really look this desperate?”
“Maybe? I don’ know how to gauge monster injuries very well and it seemed like a good idea. Can you just eat one? It’ll put me at ease.”
Pepper made a huffing sound before sitting up again and opening the pack. “I suppose if only to humor you.” He grumbled some and popped one in his mouth.
“So uh, why’d those people wanted to beat you up, if you don’t mind my asking?” Alicia asked.
“Typical backward human logic is all.”
“That…doesn’t narrow it down much.”
Pepper chortled softly at that response. “I’m sure you are aware of the general ‘feminism’ philosophy yes?”
“Oh yeh. The girls who think they’re better than everybody including other women who disagree with them? But all those people weren’t feminists.”
“No, the worst of them just teamed up with some of the Monster haters whenever they think some of us are stepping on their territory.”
“Ohh, double whammy.” Alicia mumbled awkwardly. “I’m sorry that happened to you.”
“Bah! Those humans have no idea what a FIGHT really is!” Pepper near shouted making Alicia wince from the close proximity. “Were they in the Underground, specifically where I grew up, NYAH HA HA! All of their souls would have been taken once the monsters there had taken their…enjoyment.”
Alicia did not press for details on that. She had enough street sense to guess all the situations of fun the monsters would have.
“That building on the right there.” Pepper pointed out. Alicia turned into the parking lot of a large Two storied building with the name ‘Pink Drake’ though not illuminated. She side glanced him once as she took a spot closest to the entrance. “Before you leave human, I’d like you to meet my brother. The buffoon will want proof of what happened before he thinks I’m not telling him the full story.”
Alicia turned her head to him. “At a club…”
“Do not worry, I own this establishment and you have my word nothing shall happen to you.” He stated.
Alicia wasn’t really feeling reassured by that, she grabbed her purse though, hesitating for another second before slowly getting out and not locking her car for once as she walked, eyeing everything around her like a hawk.
In she went behind Pepper, the place had some employees in it cleaning up and preparing the place. She felt a little better seeing there were workers around.
“This way.” Pepper said as they took a left towards a large round booth at a corner of the building, one that gave them the best view to the whole floor except the kitchen. In that booth sat another monster looking over some things on a laptop. A large monster, in a stylish business suit that had a tiny cat poking out of the breast pocket of the vest. Also with prink pink and very large eye lights that clashed against his neutral toned suit. His skull, looked most similar to Red’s but somehow, fatter and smoother…for lack of a better word, sleazier. He glanced at the both of them when Pepper and Alicia walked up, but he lingered on Pepper as his face twisted into some weird frown.
“What happened to you? Too much of that new cologne?” He asked with a hint of dry humor.
“Hmph, if I was wearing that, it wouldn’t be feet and fists flying at me.” Pepper answered casually which made the other monster stiffen his back and sit up straighter with an even more prominent frown.
His hands on the table like he was about to get up.
“Relax brother, it was all sorted out. This young miss witnessed it and came to my aid. She offered me a ride and even stopped to buy some monster candy for me. Jam, this I Alicia. Alicia, my brother Jam.”
“Nie to meet you.” Alicia said cordially with a polite smile.
After that, Jam did finally get up and walked over to her with his hand out. “Well, ain’t that sweet of ya. Thanks for taking care of my brother and all. Probably would have been in worse trouble without ya.”
With a smile like that, Alicia got the impression of a hungry mutant piranha. Still, she smiled and shook his hand. “No worries. Just looking out for our neighbors is what we’re supposed to be doing.”
Jam made an amused face. “Neighbors huh? Humans don’t normally consider monsters like us ‘neighbors’ unless they’re into the same things we are.”
At this Alicia snorted and had an unimpressed expression. “Do we have to be just to show some civility? I’m so done with that tribal mindset nonsense.”
Jam now chuckled, gesturing to the booth. “Come on and have a seat. Lola! Can ya come get us some drinks?” he called to a rabbit monster who really knew how to work those hips.
Pepper pulled the laptop to him to read over whatever work was on it once he joined the booth.
“Haven’t seen you around here before. You live in the city?” Jam asked.
“I’m roomies with a friend for now. I only came to the city for a fresh start really.” Alicia answered.
The rabbit monster got everyones’ drinks, Alicia ordering a non alcoholic carbonated spider nectar.
“Oh yeah? So this is the first time ya’ve ever seen monsters?” Jam smirked amusedly.
“I’ve already been here a few months, but yes.” Alicia replied, eyes lighting up at how good the beverage was. She’d have to find some at the store next time.
“Heh, and ya got a job already or still looking?”
“I’m employed already yes.”
“Hm. Pity.” Jam mused. “Well tell me what trouble ya found Pepper in eh? This oughta be good.”
Alicia chuckled and recounted the details of their meeting. Jam pursed his lips by the end of it, eye lights rolling to Pepper. “Yeah, ya might have saved my brother from some jail sentence.”
“Oh please..” Alicia grumbled quietly under her breath. Though it was apparently still loud enough for Jam and Pepper to hear, as the two of them looked at her to continue.
“One, Pepper can clearly handle himself. I was just there to bear witness in case any officer comes asking. And if the playground bullies want to overstep their lines too, at least Pepper wouldn’t stand alone.”
At this Pepper grinned. “Flattery will get you everywhere.”
Jam even laughed a little. “I like the way you think girlie. Here..” He reached into the breast pocket, there Alicia saw that when the front flap was pulled down, it showed the cat flicking you off. He pulled out a business card and slid it to her. “If you’re still looking for work or wanna cash in the favor we owe ya.”
“I didn-…well, Thank you. I’ll keep it in mind.” Alicia thought over her impulsive reply for the grateful one.
“How long have you had this club?”
“Almost as long as we’ve been here. Had to wait on a few licenses to come in, then the place got built In a little over two years. About seven years now.” Jam answered.
“Did you also have a club in the Underground?”
“Nah. Never really cared as much then. I just racked up my savings. Heh, glad I did.” Jam smirked.
Pepper made a short an sharp nod. “My brother was not a very motivated type. I on the other hand joined the royal guard and used my cunning to rise in the ranks. Coming to the surface was a dramatic change for us, so I retired and now run this business.”
“Very good.” Alicia complimented, a pang of self-disappointment hit her though. She always dreamed of being successful enough to have a stable life like this, but it had never come to fruition yet. She had given up on all her dreams because of it. It didn’t feel like much of a sacrifice either considering she never had a taste of that kind of success to begin with. Still, she forced the nice smile and congratulated those who did make it.
As they talked, Alicia watched at how they often joked with each other, getting on each other’s’ nerves yet never pushing aside that they were family. The club they ran wasn’t exactly a gentleman’s club either. What with the dance poles, the fancy stage and private booths or rooms, yeah this place was very sexual fantasies. She wondered if this was what they were subtly hinting to when they said phrases like ‘monsters like us’.
After the pleasant chat, Alicia went and shook their hands once more. “Thank you again for the visit and drink. It was really nice meeting you both.”
“Hey anytime. Stop by if you’re looking or a little fun too.” Jam answered.
“Do not become a stranger.” Pepper added after his handshake.
Alicia walked out to her car, head raised at having met some new but weird friends. Weird in a good way though. Despite the atmosphere, she didn’t feel as wigged out as she thought she might be. Alicia had to use her GPS to get her back on familiar ground again.
Once back on familiar territory, she turned her GPS off and rode home in silence. Oddly, there came this sort of emptiness that fell over her head as she parked and walked up the steps. She tried to evaluate herself and maybe pinpoint exactly what it was. Though she chalked it up as her self disappointment for now. Though walking in the house, it was easy to forget it for now too. She would normally be walking in on high alert, what with Red and Mutt having a knack for leaving some mean pranks for her. Her shoulders relaxed at seeing the activity in the kitchen was just Lion, carefully searching the cabinets for some ingredients.

“Hi Lion.” Alicia said in a meek manner.
“Greetings Tiger.” He greeted in a soft but still kind manner.
“Can you do me a small favor? Please tell Bear I want to apologize? I’m not asking you to get in the middle of this. Just that you pass that message to him so he has no question about it.” Alicia said sincerely.
Lion gazed at her for a short moment, though it was enough to make her now doubt if he would even do that much. He slowly moved to her and placed his gloved hands on her shoulders, a lopsided smile on his face. “I Will Tell Him. I Know You Did Not Mean Any Harm By What You Said. You Must Understand, The…District We Lived In Before. Monster Killed For Food. That Is As Detailed As I Shall Get.”
“I can understand that much.” Alicia agreed. In her head she debated whether she should tell him that they should understand where she was coming from too. That She was not a monster from their district but a human just taking up the challenges that many humans before her had done. But again, she didn’t want to sound like she was bringing Lion into this. So she hesitated.
Lion seemed to take this as a good sign, he straightened up and removed his hands. “I Will Let Him Know.” He promised once more before turning to go back to the back door.
Now she wondered if she should wait here a few minutes to see if he’d come now, or just go back to her room and wait for a text. The more she waited there, the more she felt like a sitting duck for the other monsters to sneer and jibe at her as they passed by, so she chose to go upstairs.
The loneliness ate at her even more up there. She tried doing some light exercise, or cleaning up the room and the bathroom. Those burned a couple of hours and at least took her mind off the loneliness. With nothing else to do now, she finally tried to go to bed, having given up on waiting today.

- - - - - - - - -

Alicia got home from work, seeing Stretch on the front porch swing. She tended to keep a look out around the house now and so it was much easier to spot the skeletons now. Most of the time, he never spoke to her and if they were in the same location for too long, he’d leave just as silently. Alicia appreciated that he wasn’t one of the more violent and dramatic types. She did know he was one of the more observant ones though, so she tried her best not to linger either. At the door, she side glanced him out of instinct, but said nothing. Neither did he.
She walked straight upstairs, no questions asked from anyone she happened to pass by. Upstairs, she had put another bag aside stuffed with things for a picnic. Grabbing that one, she went back downstairs, out the back door and out into the forest that she liked to go on walks in. Once far enough, she unfolded the picnic blanket and take a big drink of her cold water. Then lay back.
“Right...so. The first step to stop hating and being angry with myself is to repent.” She recited out loud. “The second great command is to love yourself. Love thy neighbor as you would yourself. Identify the reasons why I feel this way.”
She recited a few things she had done research on when her emotions get a little too crazy. One hand reached out beside her, over the edge of the blanket to feel the blades of grass between her fingers.
“Yer picnic is missin’ some things isn’t it?” A deep voice disrupted her thoughts.
Her eyes blinked open to reveal Bear standing a few feet away from the direction of the house. “Aren’t ya supposed to have a friend er two?”
Alicia slowly sat up as she regarded him. “Normally yes.” She answered kind of awkwardly. “I need to make amends with my friend though. Because I accidentally made him very upset.” Alicia turned to sit on her knees and face him. “And I am very sorry. I didn’t mean or want that outcome. I didn’t know it would have been a sensitive topic for you either.” She reached for her bag and raked out some prepackaged food contents. “I brought snacks.”
Bear let out a deep sigh, lumbering over to shuffle onto the edge of the picnic blanket. “I’m sorry too. It wasn’t right to handle it the way I did. Shouldn’t’a let my temper fly off the handle like that.”
Alicia fidgeted with her fingers some. “Am I still an idiot?”
Bear shook his head. “No. Shouldn’ta’ called ya that either.”
“Can I have a bear hug?”
The monster smiled and held out his arms. Alicia scooted over and completed the hug. She hugged him like she was touch starved. Honestly she kinda was, having missed company so much. Her fingers clung to him like he might fly away with the next breeze. The hug lasted longer than she probably should have let it happen, making herself separate from him. Bear was patient with her thankfully and didn’t seem to mind it. Now that she had patched up their friendship, she was scared. She would have to be careful around him, make sure she never said anything remotely similar that could jeopardize their friendship. “Would you like some?” she offered some of the snacks.
Bear sat bac and plucked up a pack of peanut butter crackers. “Thanks.” He mumbled as he tore it open.
The two of them sat in silence for a little bit, neither one starting a conversation. She took another drink of water, and to ease any underlying tension that might build up, she grabbed a piece of candy and ate it.
“So, how you been?” Alicia tried something.
“Alright. Nothing really out of the usual. You been working a lot. Hardly ever see you at the house.” Bear replied.
“Yeah. I like it that way because the others can’t blame shit on me if I’m hardly home to commit it. I’ve met some other skeleton monsters the passed few days too actually.”
“Hm? Like who?”
Alicia took the chance now to recount how she met Magnus and his team, meeting Black and Cash in a much less aggressive manner and Jam and his brother Pepper. Bear looked mildly perturbed about the four gang monsters, snorted at Black and Cash, and looked as wigged out as Alicia first felt about Jam and Pepper. “Yeesh, ya met lust monsters that didn’t try luring you in their sex dungeon huh?”
“Lust monsters, as in that’s a separate category? Don’t all monsters get horny at one time or another just like humans?” Alicia asked bewildered.
“Lust monsters are a type of monster that’s constantly in heat. They’re always ready for a tumble any day or night. Most of them eventually learn some self-control though when it’s needed.” Bear explained. “It sounds like Creed and his brother have taken a little shine to ya. But you’d best be guarded around them too. They didn’t get to where they are now selling birthday cakes.”
Alicia nodded slowly as she took his warning to heart. She had never seen Magnus nor Creed in much action yet but knew they were very capable just by their size. A snickering left her though as she couldn’t help but now picture Magnus and Creed running a bakery dressed in aprons and funny hats.

Still, all in all, it may not have been the best of days but things could have gotten so much worse at so many turns. She was thankful it hadn’t.

Chapter Text

“Soo, I have to be careful what I smell like?” Alicia asked Lion.
“NYEH, WHEN IT COMES TO OTHER MONSTERS PERHAPS. MONSTERS, BEING UCH MORE SENSITIVE TO SCENTS THAN HUMANS, AT TIMES THE SCENT OF A STRONGER MONSTER, APEX I BELIEVE THEY ARE CALLED, CAN BE OFFSETTING FOR OTHER MONSTERS.” Lion answered knowledgably.
Alicia made a face at it. “I guess I can understand but it’s not like anybody’s dating me. Why would they be offended if I have other monster friends?”
“Think of it more like a territorial matter.” Bear answered, making Alicia’s face drop to a more unimpressed look. “I’m territory now?”
“Heh. Nah. But you brought the scent of unfamiliar monsters onto our territory. For most of us it just triggered some, old habits is all.”
Alicia pursed her lips in thought at this, digesting the information. “I’ll buy some scent killer next time.” She joked.
“A GOOD IDEA.” Lion added.
Alicia took their advice or explanations seriously, since she knew so very little about monster kind and all, and they were gracious to share and teach.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

As the months went on, Alicia was getting more and more careful around the house.
At one point, Edge kept blaming her for every pile of dirty dishes in the sink. Sometimes even Papyrus, though he was nicer about it. Alicia politely defended herself, being more comfortable to speak with Papyrus. Until that is, when Sans comes around and gives her that dark socket look and she feels the air around her get somehow more tense. Still she stood her ground until he’d get real mean and witty. Where Edge would scream and name call her, Sans would geta low growling voice with underlying threats.
Alicia had reluctantly started cleaning dishes way more often than she would have liked. And she didn’t hate cleaning, it’s just that now the task was tainted with the memories of the scorning monsters naively believing a lie from their shared date mate.
Jada hardly talked to her as a friend and more but as a Machiavellian. Always trying to get her to do more stuff and when it reached it’s limit, Alicia’s patience, she would only then back down. Alicia did have a demeanor about her that she cultivated in her earlier years just after high school, in going to college in a shady place, she tried to look more intimidating and driven as a scarecrow to suspicious folks. She still used that when the moment called for it.
Some time in the weekend, that tactic was reflected back at her tenfold by Mutt when she was somehow blamed for ‘endangering Razz and Jada’s life’ during one of their dates.
“Jeeze I thought you’d grow out of that by now Alicia.” Jada pouted from the kitchen chair.
“IF THIS IS SOME SORT OF JEALOUS VENGENGE THEN PITIFUL HUMAN, YOU-AGH..” Razz couldn’t finish his sentence due to some sudden pain in his cranium he winced from.
It wasn’t even her fault. She didn’t hurt Jada, didn’t rig her car in making her air bag suddenly malfunction and blow up in her face. This resulted in a left black eye and the need for stitches on the left cheek. Razz was barely sporting any bruises, though they said he ‘lost some HP’ that’ s supposed to be like the equivalent somehow?
However that wasn’t the worst of it, the most shocking was his brother Mutt when he came around the corner.
She never thought of Mutt as ever being…an actual mutt, growling, snarling, fighting to get at her like a Cane Corso on a leash.

Mutt had to be held by Stretch, Blue, and Sans, all with focused efforts on holding back Mutt from doing anything that would give Alicia merit to call the police or the monster hating groups like H.B.M. Humans Before Monsters.
Alicia was rooted to the spot, hyper aware of her surroundings yet only could look at Mutt. She had never been on the receiving end of such raw, unhinged violence. Not to this degree, and never by a monster. She wasn’t even sure how strong Mutt was, but if it took three monsters just to hold him back…she wouldn’t stand a chance.
Papyrus was sitting with Jada and Razz, all trying to soothe her and Papyrus using some green colored magic on her face.
“Hey.” Red’s suddenly sinister voice was at her side.
She slowly turned to him, and her face fell even more. Red didn’t have a senseless rage look on his face, but it was contorted in a barely contained furor and disdain. “Yeh better scram if ya know what’s good fer ya.”
She didn’t need to be told twice. Alicia marched straight up the stairs, it feeling like she couldn’t get to her room fast enough. Once up there, she texted Lion and Bear if she could spent the night with them while she packed an overnight bag.
Bear said to come to her balcony when she was ready. So she packed up as quickly as she could and did so. Bear stood just below her window looking up at her, then suddenly he was gone and next to her. He grabbed her in a side hug then they both teleported into the shed where Axe opened the back door that was to their home.
“TIGER. YOU LOOK VERY SHAKEN. WHAT HAS MADE THE OTHER ‘SO UPSET’?”
Axe had her sit on their couch, She took a shuddering breath before explaining the situation.
Lion made some tea for all of them while she explained what she saw, passing a cup to everyone.

“HMPH. AND THEY HAVE THE NERVE TO CALL US DANGEROUS.” Lion grumbled.
“Let the dog come over here. I fuckin’ dare the little lap bitch.” Bear growled out.
Lion sat on her other side. “THE GOOD THING IS THAT MUTT DOESN’T STAY THIS ANGRY FOR LONG. HE WILL CALM DOWN SOON AND COME TO HIS SENSES.”
“Not if he believes everything Jada tells him all the time.” Alicia sulked.
“You think he will try to still attack you?”
“He might. I wouldn’t put it passed him, now that I see what he’s capable of.” Alicia answered.
“COME NOW, LET’S REMEMBER THAT MUTT IS STILL OUR COUSIN. WE CAN REASON WITH HIM WHEN THIS ALL BLOWS OVER.”
“Reason with him how? I don’t remember him ever saying one word to me.” Alicia protested.
“TELL HIM THE TRUTH, ON A CALMER LEVEL.” Lion advised. “HE IS USUALLY QUITE LOGICAL…WHEN HE ISN’T ENRAGED.”
“What if he gets enraged again?” Alicia mumbled as her hands fidgeted. “If he attacks me again and no one is around to stop him…What if I have to shoot him?”
Bear’s had turned to her. “With what?”
Alicia side glanced him for a heartbeat. “With, a gun.” She said with a hint of uncertainty. What else was she going to shoot him with..?
“Yer, heh, yer packin’ heat?” Bear smiled with a dry chuckle. His head tilted back as he laughed some more. “Tiger here ‘snot as helpless as she looks after all.”
“Why are you laughing?” Alicia pouted some. “You’re the second monster to laugh at my pistol. Do bullets not affect monsters?” Alicia asked between Bear’s laughter.
Lion harumphed. “IT DEPENDS SOLELY ON THE INTENT OF THE USER.” He crossed his arms as he sat back. “YOU COULD SHOOT A BOSS MONSTER WITH YOUR WHOLE MAGAZINE AND JUST TERRIBLY WOUND THEM BUT NOT MORTALLY. OR YOU CAN GRAB A SIMPLE DAGGER AND KILL THEM INSTANTLY BECAUSE YOU WANT THEM DEAD.”
Alicia didn’t have anything to say after that, falling silent as she committed it to memory.
“So, if I just want to stop a monster from attacking. There’s not really another option besides kill or be killed?
“THERE IS ALWAYS ANOTHER OPTION HUMAN FRIEND.” Lion reminded. “IN MOST CASES, YOU CAN TALK IT OUT. IF PULLED INTO AN ENCOUNTER, YOU CAN OUTLAST US TILL OUR MAGIC IS SPENT. THERE ARE EVEN TRANQUILIZERS AND THE MONSTER GUARD THAT YOU CAN CALL FOR EMERGENCY SITUATIONS.” Lion smiled to her, though, it looked like a rather sad sort of smile, especially as he looked away and the smile faded, his shoulders hunched like he was recalling a memory. “IN ALL THINGS, I IMPLORE YOU TO NEVER RESORT TO KILLING UNLESS YOU TRULY HAVE NO CHOICE. THERE IS A TERRIBLE ADDICTION TO THE LEVEL OF VIOLENCE THAT IS VERY HARD TO BREAK FREE OF. ONCE THAT LEVEL IS INCREASED TOO HIGH THE DAMAGE IS PERMANENT AND YOU CAN ONLY REVERSE SO MUCH.”
Both the brothers had a far-off look like they were mentally walking down memory lane. She didn’t really have the slightest clue what they were thinking, could only begin to guess, though she didn’t want to interrupt the comfortable silence between the three of them either. She wasn’t sure when, but somehow she had dosed off on their couch, instead of waking her at all, a blanket was thrown on her and only the smell of coffee the next morning woke her up.
For a moment she panicked thinking sh was late for work as she bolted up, but then checked her phone and remembered everything was fine. She wasn’t even scheduled to work today.
Instead, she listened to one of the sermons from her church while enjoying coffee and breakfast, then being lazy with Bear. The brothers had become the teddy bear and lion that day.
It was fairly easy to fall into a routine with both her jobs and she thought that now things were normal until she was blamed once again, first things after coming home from work. She had just walked through the front door, locking it back when Edge came storming around the corner coming at her like he was about to run her over.

“IF YOU CANNOT CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF PATHETIC HUMAN, YOU DO NOT DESERVE TO EAT OUR FOOD!” Edge screeched at her as she walked inside.
“What? I’ve been gone all day. I never even ate breakfast here.” She said calmly.
Edge motioned sharply towards the archway of the kitchen. “SPARE ME YOUR STUPID EXCUSES FOR ONCE! MY DATE MATE HAS CLEANED UP AFTER YOU FAR TOO MANY TIMES NOW CLEAN UP YOUR DAMN MESS IN THE KITCHEN!”
Alicia peered in there, but she couldn’t see anything that she left. She purposefully didn’t use any dishes. Was it the coffee machine? A harsh pressure suddenly enveloped her chest and she felt her body lift and thrown into the kitchen nearly shove against the kitchen sink where a few dirty dishes of some mac and cheese meal was made. “FINISH THEM UP STUPID HUMAN!”
Alicia blinked at the mess before grabbing up the gloves and starting. With a soft sigh, she went ahead and cleaned them. It would make no difference ever defending herself against Edge. She washed them, stacked them, wiped around the sink and had everything cleaned up. The TV was turned on as she finished the last steps and muffled voices reached her ears, though she wasn’t too interested. Silently she walked out of the kitchen and kept her eyes to the stairs.
“Hey Alicia!” Jada’s voice interrupted. “You’re back from work. You wanna come watch a movie with us?” she asked with that big monster soul winning smile of hers.
Alicia looked at her, but also spared a quick glance at the gathering of frowning skulls her way. So she put on her own fake smile. “No thanks. I’m just going to take a nap.”
“Aww, you don’t want to come hang out with us?” Jada called after her in that fake concern Alicia had learned to identify.
“Heh, maybe next time.” Alicia said over her shoulder and kept going up the stairs, her fake smile falling once she turned to the second flight. Today was a half day of work, and it would be nice if she could actually take a nap, but it wasn’t always easy for her to fall asleep. Heaving another soft sigh, She showered off and went to her room to try and at least cat nap.
Lo and behold, today was her lucky day, she got a little nap in before dinner time. Alicia slowly got up, one of the downsides to sleeping nearly on the floor is that it sometimes was a process to get up. Putting on her bed shoes, she slipped back down stairs, the smell of dinner in the air.
her luck ran out when almost everyone was gathered at the dinner table, the conversation pausing when she walked in. Alicia tried a genuine smile this time but it was strained. “Good evening.”
Alicia tried t ignore the stares as she went to the cupboard to grab a plate. Just as he free hand poked upwards, Edge spoke. “DIDN’T I TELL YOU, YOU DO NOT GET TO EAT MY FOOD?”
At this Alicia paused, looking at him with a befuddled expression. “What? I can’t have dinner?”
“NOT MY FOOD! I REFUSE TO COOK FOR SOMEONE AS UNGRATEFUL AS YOU! YOU’RE NOT ALLOWED ANY OF OUR FOOD FROM THE FRIDGE NOR THE PANTRY UNTIL THEN!”
“But…I pay rent. I live here too.”
“AND YET YOU CANNOT EVEN RESPECT THE SIMPLE HOUSE RULES! SO YOU DO NOT GET TO PARTAKE IN THE BENEFITS!” Edge screeched as his fist slammed on the table and he stood up. “NOW LEAVE US TO ENJOY THE REST OF OUR MEAL!”
Her shoulders dropped, awkwardly walking back out of the kitchen now trying not to spare the meal on the table another glance…
She glanced.
Okay not a second glance.
Alicia walked out of the kitchen slowly back up the stairs, eyes on the floorboards as the bewilderment turned to hurt.
She wasn’t allowed to eat…maybe she should just let this blow over like Lion said and try talking about it later.
So she left it alone for three days. Checking the kitchen sink every time she left the house and every time she came home, making sure there wasn't even a spoon in there. She went to the store before coming home, buying a few things that could fit in her back pack or duffle bag. One day she came home and the bottom floor smelled of home cooked food. Happy voices at the dining room. Alicia felt a little hope as she walked by, stopping at the archway. At the table, everyone was gathered, Jada giving another happy greeting to her.

“Good evening.” Alicia said softly, trying not to stare at everyone’s plates. “Dinner looks wonderful…” She paused as she felt a tightness in her chest already start. “…May I have some?”
“NO HUMAN FILTH YOU CANNOT!” Edge said with his usual harshness and an added smirk. His hands coming up under his chin. “THREE DAYS IS HARDLY A PUNISHMENT FOR THE MONTHS OF MESS YOU HAVE LEFT. I DON’T FEED UNGRATEFUL LITTLE SHITS.”
Edge must have a sadistic side to him that he reveled in while in the Underground. As he was enjoying this little torture without saying that he was enjoying it. Alicia merely turned on her heels again and walked off. She lost any faith in Edge now too, ever thinking this would blow over in time.

Alicia trekked back upstairs, going to her duffle bag and pulling out the food and snacks she had bought over time. Her mind thinking about whatever else she needed to turn a spot in the (thankfully) spacious room into a studio apartment. It was easier and happier to think of a shopping trip than the faces of everyone at the table, no objection from any of them. Which was surprising. She thought that Blue and Stretch were her friends…

Maybe not as much as she thought. Oh well, she wouldn’t hold it against them. She had shopping to do. Grabbing up her purse, making a mental note of places she’d go, she just plucked her keys up and left once more. This time sparing no glance at the dining room or anyone else as he went out the door.
She got into her car, headed into town.
Her first stop was a large store where she bought an electrical double burner stove along with a few more groceries. A medium enamel pot was on sale and so she bought it as well. Her room already had a floor cabinet that she would turn into her pantry. Getting a mini fridge would be more of a waste of money, so she skipped that. Instead she bought a mini camera and a plastic dish washing basin with the sponge and detergent.
As she walked out of the store, the sky decided to let loose all the rain it stored up. Alicia grumbled at having forgotten to check the weather and now walked faster to her car with her bags.
Her hunger would no longer allow her to ignore it either, so she looked around at the nearby options.
Eventually she found a restaurant. A large two storied one that looked like the fanciest joint she had ever seen, yet it advertised things like pizza and burgers, chicken fingers and steaks. Only a few cars were there yet the place was still open. So she decided to treat herself. The doors were huge, clearly a monster friendly place, given the first person she saw was another flame elemental, a purple one and a spider monster lady running the place. They both looked at her with an unreadable sort of expression, almost a frown but didn’t say anything. If, she was paranoid she’d get the feeling she wasn’t welcomed here.
The spider monster walked up to her. “What can I get you dear?” she asked with a sort of devious smile.
Alicia smiled back. “Good evening, the garden salad please, with unsweet tea.”
“Coming up.” The spider monster left quickly.
Alicia too the time to take out her phone and go over her list of anything else she might need. The list was simple enough anyway and she got distracted by a meme app she had on her phone.
There was a very large group, maybe around ten guys, at a long table on the opposite side of the eatery, loud and profane words coming out of their filthy mouths. She tried to ignore them and just wait for her food, but it was more difficult by the minute. Their arrogance and lack of consideration in a public location was really grinding at Alicia’s patience. Especially after today. She was considering just canceling her order and going someplace else. They were even rude and arrogant to the servers. Which was even more stupid on their part, the place was run by monsters and they chose to come here. Yet they had the gall to be derogatory towards them. A heavy sigh escaped her nose and she looped the strap of her purse back on.
She slid to the end of the booth, just as the doors were pushed open by two more monsters. The way they made their entrance too, demanded the attention of the whole place. The first one, a couple inches taller than her, a lean skeleton who was straight as a broom, dressed like a colonel out of a movie from the aristocratic days and purple eye lights scanning over the whole of the establishment. At his side was a sword scabbard that confused Alicia the most.
Behind him, a taller skeleton, also with a sword quite like a katana in looks, his jacket just hung loosely around his shoulders, silver shirt with the sleeves rolled up and a black vest over it. He had two gold teeth, one on the top right fang and the other on the lower bottom. He also had a hard stare on his face that screamed heinous intent. Now Alicia really didn’t want to be here.
What made matters worse was that the whole place fell silent, like some invisible lines were drawn between the two newcomers, and the rowdy gang at the long table. When all their eyes met, it felt like a fight was about to break out.
At first, a couple fire arms were drawn out, aiming for the monsters. Their mistake though, was using the fire arms as scarecrows instead of tools. In the second of hesitation, both the monsters disappeared and reappeared right beside each of the gunman, grabbing their arms roughly and breaking wrists. Screams echoed about the place as the two were tossed to the floor, crashing into other furniture.
The next second, all the other guys jumped to their feet, more chairs falling to the floor as various types of knives were drawn, a few actually landing some cuts onto the monsters before they too bac away.
The two monsters, one smiling dangerously as he drew his sword, a type of gladiator looking sword, the other an assassin looking grim face as he drew his katana like blade, charged for the opposing crowd again.
Alicia kept her head low an took a round about path to get to the door and GTFO, eyes away from the fight scene. She made it to the door, but it wouldn’t budge! Somehow it got locked…
Her only option now was to hide or find another way out. Maybe there was a bac door she could sneak out. Alicia still stayed away from the main fight, which she thought for a split second, these guys are tougher than they appeared, getting back up after being knocked down. There were loud thuds coming from the second floor too, catching her curiosity for a split second. Weaving around the tables, she nearly made it to the back when two more people went tumbling down the stairs. Was there a fight happening upstairs too!?
Alicia flailed back as she checked upstairs for any more avalanches, she darted for the back door again, only to find out it was locked too, wouldn’t budge under her efforts. She grit her teeth turning around and her heart skipped a beat at seeing the taller monster walking towards her. “Nope!” she impulsively yelped as she fled to the right. As the room looped back around, there were spider webs now everywhere, holding the first thugs down in their place. Extra lines stretched all about in case they escaped. “No no no.” Her main escape was blocked and so she desperately tried another route. However, the tall swordsman had caught up to her, roughly grabbing her with boney fingers that felt more like they were made of metal, grabbing her and throwing her back hard enough to stumble to the floor, still she tried to move but then the tip of the skeleton’s sword was now pressed against her shoulder just under the collarbone. She felt the piercing and froze instantly. Her eyes went up to meet the serious skeleton. He had only one eye light on and from it, a malevolent mist of purple swayed out of it. Both his sockets narrowed at her suspiciously and Alicia put one hand up slowly. “I don’t wanna fight. I was trying to get away from it.”
“No escape.”
“Yeah I noticed that.” Alicia answered in dry humor. “I’m not trying to start trouble either.”
“Too late. You chose your own fate.” He said quickly, moving as if he was about to thrust the sword through her slowly.
“I didn’t choose this fate!” Alicia impulsively yelled at him. She only got a growl in response. She was just about to resort to her last means of survival as well, until another more familiar voice interrupted the both of them.
“Bearkat! Fuckin’ fancy seein’ you here!” Magnum’s booming voice intervened the swordsman’s attack.
Both heads turned to see him, strolling forwards, sleeves also rolled up. “You can stop pokin’ her now Gunto.” He looked irritated at the other skeleton.
Said skeleton, Gunto, hesitated for a second before he removed his blade, grabbing a handkerchief and cleaning the tip. Though his stern glare was gone, it was replaced by Mganum’s now.
“What are you doing here? Tell me you’re not part of their gang.”
Alicia climbed to her feet now and fixed him with an angry leer of her own. “The hell I am you frilled shark of an asshole! The sign said open. I just wanted a meal!” She gestured angrily. Guess she really just wasn’t meant to eat today…
Magnum hardly blinked at her outburst, just rubbing his chin in thought. Though another skeleton, a tall one dressed in a similar color scheme as Magnum started snickering. “Good one. I’ll have to remember that one later.” He said.
‘Not glad I amuse you’. Alicia thought.
Alicia shoulders dropped as her temper dissipated. “Nevermind. I’m just going to go.”
“Slow yer roll there bearcat.” Magnum put an arm up. “At least lemme’ explain somethin’ to ya.” He said, not flinching at her glower at him. “This was a set up. The boys an’ I been tryin’ ta capture these
goons for some time. It took a lotta patience to get them to agree to gather in one place. An’ look, it’s not like ya witnessed any bad bops.” He said gesturing to the men all about.
It was true, there was minimal blood spilled, which means the swordmen- monsters used the flat or the back of their swords to deal blows. Just outside, the windows illuminated with red and blue lights.
“Go on upstairs. Leave the rest to the coppers and us. ‘Ey Scorch. Get this lady whatever she wants on my tab will ya?”
The purple flame elemental nodded and gestured for Alicia with a half bow and graceful gesture. With little choice in the matter, she went with him, not wanting any more drama today. Her drama meter was way passed it’s limit. He lead her upstairs to what looked like a private room, complete with a small personal bar, a few extra tables, pool game and darts, large TV and even more comfortable couches and chairs. “I should have sent you away.” Scorch said apologetically. “I wasn’t sure if you were a part of their group or not, so I didn’t say anything till the fight broke out. I locked the doors and went up to give Magnum and Creed back up while Araneae stayed downstair with Gunto and Gladius.”
He sneered off to the side. “This is also why I was against using the restaurant as the trap in the first place. Now we’ll cleaning that mess up for the rest of the week if not more.”
“Wow. Elaborate plan you all had.” Alicia replied.
Scorch hummed some and dusted his apron off habitually. “Guess that’s one way to look at it. Tch, glass everywhere and I’m supposed to bring a fleshy, watery human here. I’ll get you something for the wound on your shoulder as well.” He said before leaving.

Alicia had the adrenaline going too much to sit still, so she started wandering the room a little. It was obvious this room was where the other scuffle was, yet still no signs of blood or dust for that matter. A table on it’s side, chairs and cards strewn, broken glass. Even a couple plates with half eaten food was still there. She went to the back window, but stopped and backed away quickly at seeing the whole place had flashing lights still. She hoped they didn’t try to investigate her car.
In the mean time, she started stretches and watching a funny video. Hearing the stairs creak under someone’s weight, she paused the video. Up came four monster skeletons. The first was the tall guy similar to Magnum but thinner and pointier, like he could pop ballons simply with his stare. His small red eye lights instantly found hers and he smirked as he ascended the stairs. Behind him was Gladius, the shorter purple monster with a more impassive gaze, thirdly was Gunto and bringing up the rear was Magnum.

“Greetings Miss. I am Creed, at your service.” He said formerly even with the hand holding his hat across his front and the other behind him as he made a short bow. “My colleagues are Gladius and his brother Gunto, and you’ve met my brother.”
Alicia mimicked his bowing gesture. “Nice to meet you all.”
“Hmph.” Gladius answered. “I was told this place was closed told the public today to ensure only the culprits we wanted would be here. How did you slip by?”
“I didn’t get the memo.” Alicia answered.
“It would have raised suspicion as well if we closed it.” Creed said as he took his seat.
“Did ya pull yer gun out on ‘em?” Magnum asked.
“No.” Alicia said resolutely. “I saw how they disarmed the first two guys that had pistols and all I wanted to was GTFO.”
“A wise choice.” Gladius mused.
At this Magnum had a little pout on his face. “Ya pulled a gun on me but not them? Oh it’s cuz ya had a little duckling to protect.”
Alicia snorted now. “He is not my duckling. He’s not even a friend technically.”
“Civilian?” Creed asked as he turned a suspicious glance at his brother. Just then, both Scorch and Araneae showed up with drinks and platters of food.
“Nah, just Red. The little ape they let out his cage every now an’ then.” Magnum answered. He plucked up the bottle of mustard Scorch set down for him.
“Do you two hate each other?” Alicia asked when her salad was finally in front of her.
“Eh, I don’t really hate ‘em per say. But I don’t have a lotta respect for him like I used to either is all. When he gets ta threatenin’ me though, it brings out my own horns.” Magnum summarized.
Alicia could understand though. She didn’t have a very high opinion of Red right now either.
“Soo, are you all undercover agents of some sort?” She asked them, mostly looking to Gladius and Gunto.
“Of sorts yes.” Gladius answered. “It’s just part of the business we run.” He said in a way that implied they were going to say no more of it.
Scorch had placed a first aid kit beside Alicia who thanked him in return. She got some ointment and bandage from it, carefully applying it as she looked down from her shirt collar.
She felt the eye lights of Gunto and Magnus on her more than looked herself, as she just applied the bandage under the shirt collar.
“That hurt any?” Magnus asked as he leaned on his elbow.
“Yes. Stabbing by a sword hurts.” Alicia replied.
“Okay smart ass.” Magnus snorted. “I already get that kinda shit from my bro here, don’t be another Creed.”
Alicia had a big (shit eating) grin on her face after his little snap back, truly finding him amusing.
Thankfully it seemed that Magnus didn’t truly take offense to her either.
“On another note, your strategy was still solid, and all your skills truly amazing.” Alicia tried complimenting them.
Creed practically glowed with a smug look while his brother chuckled a soft rumble.
Gladius gave a cordial ‘Thank you Miss. Only the best performance from us.”
Gunto dipped his head and raised his glass in a wordless salute.
“So uh, does crime, of that category happen often around here?” Alicia also asked afterwards.
“Not usually in such an open area. Most of the time it’s in the poorer sides of the city or much more secret places.” Creed answered. “So long as you avoid those shady areas, the likelihood of another night like this is incredibly rare. Although,” he reached in his pocket and pulled out a card sliding it to her. “In case you should happen to be in such distress, this is mu direct number.”
Alicia plucked it quickly and pocketed it in her purse. “Thank you, I’ll be sure to remember that.” She smiled gratefully to him.
After a couple seconds of eating, Alicia glanced at Gunto and Gladius’s weapons, they were clearly not made for a human yet they had a very human style..?
“Interested in my bade human?” Gladius called her out with a raised bone brow as their eye met.
“A little bit actually. Firstly, I see it’s a human style but a much larger replication, no doubt custom designed for your standards. Is it a Republican, Mainz, or maybe Pompeian?” Alicia voiced her questions.
Gladius looked semi impressed and a small smirk appeared on his thin lips. “You know your swords. I have long favored the Gladius, particularly the Republican, so I had one forged for me by an old friend.”
“So cool.” Alicia expressed. Her eyes went to his tall brother who was looking at her expectantly now. “And, your gunto. I have a traditionally made katana at home, full tang, sting ray skin and all. But your sword, is it also just a custom made katana or is it really still called a gunto? Cuz, I’ve seen you use it with one hand at times too and, its clearly not just for a status symbol.”
Gunto had a ghost of a smile, a much more welcomed change from his usual way-too-solemn face. “It is a gunto by style, a katana by effectiveness. Do you know any sword skills?”
“Ha! Aside from cleaning them, no. but, I can buy a sword and a baton before I could legally buy a gun, And I liked the katana a lot. I bought it and saved up for my pistol.” She said. Though once again it was hard to tell if Gunto liked what he heard or not. At least he didn’t seem to look offended.

They swapped a few short stories and jokes until the meal was done, Alicia formally shook hands with all of them as an extra show of politeness and respects. Gladius even offered to escort her to her car and stood at the side walk until she drove off. It was a little after eleven when she finally got home, quietly tiptoeing inside.
Alicia hadn’t meant to stay out so late, but overall, it turned out to be a good night. Carefully she crept inside the house, though to her mild surprise, she saw the light from the living room TV still on and the sounds of a video game. Quietly she passed by with her bags and up the staircase. A quick side glance showing that it was Red and Mutt just playing games.
Once up there, she quickly set a few things up and situated. Then went to shower off and go to bed. The adrenaline had worn off so now she was tired. Nothing sounded better than bed right now.

Needless to say, she was tried at work the next day, trying not to show it too much. When she got home, Alicia didn’t even care about dinner. Not since she could just boil her own water and cook something simple upstairs. Although, maybe investing in a little fridge is a good idea. She didn’t even spare a glance at anyone who she happened to walk by either, already knowing they would only see it as an invitation to be mean to her some more.
upstairs in her room, she made a little something small and watched a show. Her phone rang with an unfamiliar number and she answered it. Turns out it was the Warehouse store she had also applied for a week ago wants to set up and interview.
Alicia absolutely hopped on that and scheduled it. The next day she talked to Wine about a possible change of schedule in order to keep up with two jobs. It meant less time training but she was fine with that for now. The interview went great and she nailed the job. Now having Wine as a part time and the warehouse job as another part time, she successfully gained reasons to be at the manor a lot less. So now, less cold truly be blamed on her if she isn’t around much.
Wine was gracious enough to re arrange her schedule so that she could accommodate both jobs. Feed store in the morning, and the boutique till it closed. She got Sundays off on both jobs and Monday mornings off. Her days were very long, starting usually at 4am. Feed store from 6am to 2pm. Then the boutique from 3pm to 8pm. Get home closer to 9pm then quickly to bed. Luckily she was part time on both days, so sometimes she got to sleep in or go home after one of the jobs.
She knew Bear and Lion were missing her company, and she tried to have a movie day or play some games with them. They would end up letting her crash on their couch if she was just too tired.
When the rent was due, that was the only time Alicia ever really interacted with Sans. Any time she saw him outside of that, she did try to be polite. It all fell on deaf ears- earholes. So, she eventually gave up trying. He had time for everything else, except her attempt at making amends.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

As the days passed, she eventually learned most of everyone routines. When they tended to wake up, go to work. Who had jobs and who didn’t. When they were all gone or who was around.
She noticed too that Sans was less and less present though. Even Papyrus didn’t seem too happy about it. As one day, she saw him in the back yard, working on something like a very large wooden frame.
Alicia walked out there, curious of what the energetic skeleton was up to. “Hey hey Papyrus.”
Said skeleton turned his head with an audible ‘nyeh? GREETINGS HUMAN ALICIA.” He replied cordially.
“What are you working on?” She asked.
“THE GREAT PAPYURS AM BUILDING A RAISED GARDEN. I HAVE NEVER ACTUALLY TRIED TO GARDEN BEFORE AND, I HEAR IT HAS OTHER BENEFITS BESIDES GROWING FOOD.” Papyrus answered as he connected the last corner of the first four boards.
“Indeed it does. Such a rewarding hobby.” Alicia reminisced.
“OH? DO YOU GARDEN AS WELL?”
“I’m quite the avid gardener. I had a raised garden going in my parents backyard.” Alicia answered proudly.
“REALLY? WOWIE. PERHAPS YOU MAY SHARE SOME OF YOUR GARDENING SKILLS WITH ME?” Papyrus looked back to her with a hopeful expression.
“I’d love to help with your garden Paps.” Alicia smiled brightly back.

Papyrus put together the frame for the raised garden, a seven by seven square of treated wood, two and a half feet in height. Alicia was all too happy to walk him through the basics of gardening, each season for what vegetables he wanted to grow, plant food, fertilizer, fungus killers and natural pesticides.
Papyrus seemed to be deeply enthralled, inviting her to even go shopping for plants with him once he got a truck load of dirt.
Alicia impulsively jumped on the idea. Though whether it was because his enthusiasm was so contagious, or she really wanted to chance to make some new friends, wasn’t so clear. Maybe a mix of both was logical.
Papyrus got a truck of dirt in the next two days, a pile dumped on the ground though instead of inside the frame as he wasn’t sure yet where the best place to put the garden was. They didn’t want it right in front of the back door anymore, so the dirt rested there while Papyrus built a second frame.
Making the frames was mostly led by Papyrus, ten when the dirt was added, she taught him about the nutrients scale, the micro nutrients, the right seasons and to never transplanting any plant in a bad mood. The plants feed off our energy instead just our speech, so transplanting a plant while angry, will eventually kill it.
"I AM SO EXCITED!" Papyrus said with a starry eyed look. "NOW ALL THAT'S LEFT I TO BUY THE PLANT WE WANT! I CANNOT GO TODAY BUT IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP AND YOUR KNOWLEDGE."
Alicia smiled up at him. "You're very welcome Paps. It's always been a hobby of mine."
After everything was done for today, she helped put back the tools in the shed and went to wash off. Hope had blossomed in her head. Maybe Blue and Stretch might be wishy washy, but it didn't seem like Papyrus would be. He seemed much more stable and way less aloof. So just maybe he might make a good friend too just like with Bear and Lion.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

A few days later, when Razz and Blue had gotten home, she greeted them with a silent and small smile, but only Blue gave any acknowledgement to her with a small smile of his own before going to the kitchen.
She wondered, was there anything at all she could do to mends things between her and Razz.
Alicia went to the store one day to grab a few more garden accessories for the plants while he decided that, excited to show Papyrus. He said she could also plant any plants she might have wanted and one of the first things she grabbed was aloe vera, seed packets for rainbow glass corn, and a midnight snack cherry tomato plant. She took the plants to the back porch for now and went back inside to wait for Papyrus.
Alicia was in the dining room writing out a few tips for him when the back door was swung open with haste. She peeked around the wall curious of the commotion.
Stretch was being half carried to the couch by Lion, Russ trailing behind, leaving the door opened as he rushed some place for a short while, then teleported to the living room.
Stretch looked out of it as Lion gently placed him on the couch.
“What Happened?!”
“I’ve got the med kit.”
Tentatively Alicia got closer, naturally concerned as people gathered about the living room to also find out what happened. Russ focused on getting Stretch patched up, but the poor orange skeleton just seemed too dazed to answer any questions other than incoherent mumbling of a few words.
“Ngh…shed…mower…”
“YES! I SAW HIM GO TOWARDS THE LAWN MOWER SHED LAST.” Papyrus confirmed, which was a separate shed than the one Lion and Bear had. “HE WAS GOING TO MOW THE LAWN.”
“Looks like he got clocked on the skull pretty hard, and his right shoulder here.” Russ answered.
Razz scowled. “How?!”
Russ could only shrug right now, as it was anyone's guess which tool did the damage.
When no one had an answer, that's when Jada turned towards Alicia.
“Alicia.” Jada said as she looked at her. “You think it’s funny using heavy tools for a dangerous prank?”
Alicia scowled at her. “I didn’t do anything of the sort.”
“My Brother, For Once Not Being Lazy…And You Hurt Him…” Blue’s voice was unusually quiet and ominous.
“It wasn’t me Blue. I was never in tha-!” Her words were cut off as Blue whirled at her, a very alien look in his eyes. The stars in his eyes were not blue and yellowish. Instead the yellow was replaced by red. His smile was more of a snarl and fangs were suddenly very obvious in his otherwise straight smile. He lifted one hand and Alicia felt a painful pressure on her chest, and as his hand moved aggressively to the left, so too did her body get thrown. She went flying out the open back door, hitting the walls or the door frame until she crashed into the pile of dirt so harshly that she nearly went right though it. Flailing her arms and legs, trying not to breathe in any dirt, she scrambled to get out of the pile. Collapsing to the ground, she still couldn’t stop the coughing. Thank goodness for adrenaline, Alicia couldn’t feel much of anything as she shakily climbed to her feet. However, she did feel a strike of panic run through her when she looked back to see Blue standing there in the doorway.
Alicia moved without thinking about it to get away. She let that pressure on her chest once more and her body flip towards the side wall of Lion and Bear’s house. Pain erupted in her own shoulder now when she landed, going still and screwing her eyes shut. She chose not to move this time.
The pressure had disappeared, so she peeked her eyes open.
It seemed Blue had left her alone now, some muffled yelling being heard back at the house.
The best she could describe her state right shell shocked. Did Blue want to kill her? Look how easily he believed Jada. She thought he would know her better than that. Weren’t they cool with each other?
What really happened and did Jada set it up?
She saw movement at the corner of her eye, when someone came around the corner of the house, Alicia tensed and tried to get up.
“HUMAN..” Papyrus said as he kneeled beside her. Alicia looked up at him, blinking away the dirt and tears that threatened to escape. She looked away quickly to try and control herself.
“HUMAN, ARE YOU ALRIGHT? CAN YOU STAND?” Papyrus ushered.
Her voice cracked so she just nodded. It didn’t feel like anything was broken, she felt burns and bruises forming though.
Papyrus tried to help her up, “DO YOU NEED TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL?”
“Uh…no. I think I’m okay. Can you help me to the bath house?” She asked him softly.
Papyrus carefully helped her there, concern painted all over his face as he did so. “When I rinse off, I’ll know for sure.” She assured him with a smile that felt fake even to her.
The skeleton didn’t say anything but nod as he left her to shower.

Papyrus’s POV

“OH MY GOD SANS!” Papyrus screeched. Though the ‘Sans’ he was referring to was Blue. “STOP THAT THIS INSTANT!” Papyrus tore after Blue as the other skeleton stood at the back door. “YOU’VE DONE ENOUGH! YOUR BROTHER NEEDS YOU NOW!” He said grabbing Blue by his raised hand and whirling him around. He inwardly shuddered at the look in Blue’s eye lights. Papyrus had never seen that before. It was disturbing.
Until it was gone again with a few shakes of Blue’s head, his hands going tohis face. “Papy!” he exclaimed and rushed to check on him. Papyrus took a few steps to the side, where he could see both most of the living room and outside. He looked both ways with indecision.

“Bro. Can ya use yer healing magic on Stretch here?” Sans called to him. Though when he didn’t get a verbal answer, he called again. “Bro?”

“LET THE OTHER TEND TO STRETCH. RUSS IS DOING A GREAT JOB AS IT IS. I’LL BE BACK.” Papyrus said finally and left the house. In a few short bounds of if long legs, Papyrus rounded the corner to find Alicia there against the wall on the ground. “HUMAN?” He called as he came to her side. The look that he gave her nearly broke Papyrus’s soul. Fear, confusion, screaming from her own soul like a wailing siren till she got some control over herself. She looked at him as if he might also want to hurt her and it made him wince. He couldn’t blame her for that though. He never thought Blue would ever do something like this. “HUMAN, ARE YOU ALRIGHT? CAN YOU STAND?” He gently touched her shoulders. He would take her o the hospital himself if she needed. He didn’t care right now what everyone else said. Right now this human needed help.
“Uh, no. I think I’m okay. Can you help me to the bath house?” she answered.
At first Papyrus was confused. Why would a dip in the bath house be needed right now? Oh wait…she is covered in dirt, and perhaps the water might help relax her from that traumatic experience.
Carefully he lifted her up. Not that she was particularly heavy to him, but he knew he had to be careful. He let her lean on him till she was able to walk correctly. There, he looked around for a spare change of clothes, of course there was none.
“HUMAN? MAY I GO IN YOUR ROOM TO FETCH YOU A SARE CHANGE OF YOUR CLOTHING?”
“Oh yeah. Good idea Paps. There should be a pair of green sweat pants and a black shirt on it on my chair.” She answered in her usual voice, no longer shaken and broken. Humans had an ability to recover on their own so quickly sometimes. He always admired that about humans. Papyrus quickly went to go fetch the clothing, the voices having died down now back inside the house. On his way bac down, Russ was leaning against the wall of the second flight of stairs.
“How is she?”
“I BELIEVE HE WILL RECOVER.” Papyrus answered simply.
“Do ya think she did it?” Russ asked next. His face in that neutral setting as always.
“I DO NOT SEE HOW SHE COULD HAVE. I DO NOT THINK SHE EVER ASKED TO GO IN THAT SHED, MUCH LESS BE THE PRANKING TYPE.” Papyrus mused, continuing his way back to the bath house.
“I HAVE YOUR CLOTHING HERE HUMAN. IT’S HANING ON THE HOOK.” He announced.
“Thank you Papyrus! That was incredibly helpful.” Alicia answered from behind the door.
Her voice does not sound shaky any longer. She must have recovered from that shock. “DO YOU NEED ANYTHING ELSE HUMAN?”
“uh…Is Stretch okay? Has everything settled down?”
“AH, I BELIEVE HE IS ALRIGHT. THEY WERE NOT STILL GATHERED IN THE LIVINGROOM WHEN I PASSED BY.” I assure her.
“Whew…that’s a relief. Thank you again Paps. I’ll be going to my room after this.” She answered softly.
“NYEH. ALRIGHT HUMAN. TAKE CARE!” I say before taking my leave.
As I walk back to the house, I pass by Trap, who I could not tell if he was looking at me or not. I try asking him how is Stretch, however he did not answer me. Instead his entire demeanor was a little more, disturbing as he walked past me. I forget about it for now.

Back in the house, it did look as if the commotion has finally died down. Stretch was taken to his room and tended to by his brother and I knock on the door to go check on them myself.
Jada was also in there, sitting on the edge of the bed, looking as befuddled as I feel right now.
“GREETINGS MY LOVELY DATEMATE. BLUE, HOW IS STRETCH?” I ask as I summon some of my own healing magic.
“His HP Is Recovering Now.” Blue answered. I see him wipe sweat from his skull.
“Poor Stretch.” Jada said as she took said skeleton’s hand in his as Stretch’s sockets started opening again. His eye lights light up and come into focus. “Hey, you feeling okay?”
“nngh…Wasn’t I… about to cut the lawn?”
“YES. BUT YOU SUSTAINED SOME INJURY AND YOU WERE BROUGHT BACK INSIDE BY TRAP.”
Stretch blinks slowly as he sits up better. “Oh yeah. Bro, you were just in there too right? Tryin’ to spook me?”
Blue shook his head. “No. I Got Home With Black.”
Stretch stared blankly for a second. “You weren’t…But, I thought I saw a flash of blue.. then something flew off the wall. Then another..”
“I bet it was Alicia, leaving her mess somewhere and you got caught in it.” Jada answered.
However Stretch didn’t look like that was the right answer. He frowned to her instead. “She was never there. And I don’t think she can levitate.”
Jada shrugged some and fixed his pillow. “You’re probably still dazed. Why don’t you leave the grass cutting for another day and just rest up. I’ll even get you a bottle of honey real quick.”
At this idea, Blue would normally protest, but he didn’t say anything this time other than a small frown.
Jada hops up to leave and I take her place to use more green magic on Stretch till his HP is restored.

Stretch remains quiet even as Jada returns shortly. Blue looks sad and distant. I’m not sure what is going through his skull but I’ll be sure to ask soon. Now that the three of them are chatting and Stretch is okay, I take my leave to return to my own duties. After what Stretch had just said, I do wonder if we may be haunted somehow? But where did the ghosts come from and why are they here?
Or perhaps Stretch will remember what really happened after his own skull is not so addled.
Anyway, I do need to get dinner started. It’s my turn and I am making a tortellini special!
Making the meal really put me back at ease again now that no one is terribly harmed. Stretch was being tended to by Jada with monster candy and steadily recovering his HP. In fact he was able to join us for dinner. I had to remind my brother of dinner again before he lost track of time. Everyone talked or bragged and bantered on like nothing ever happened. I do not know if anyone else thought about it, however I noticed Alicia did not come down for dinner either. I do not mention it, but I do make a spare plate for her and bring it up to her room. Knocking on the door, I receive no reply until the second knock and she slowly opens the door with a peculiar look, a slightly worried one.
Smiling to her, I offer the plate. "I DID NOT SEE YOU COME FOR DINNER, SO I BROUGHT YOU SOME."
Now her face looked shocked, as if I, The Great Papyrus would ever forget to share my masterpiece with someone in need of it. Carefully she took the plate with a watery smile. "Thank you Papyrus. I was going to skip it because, seemed to be the smarter choice." She explained quietly.
My face softens. "I UNDERSTAND. PLEASE BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY THAT IS NOT HOW BLUE NORMALLY IS."
She pursed her lips in a very unconvinced manner. "Thank you for the meal Papyrus, it was really kind of you to bring it for me."
"OF COURSE HUMAN, I'M HAPPY TO HELP."
There is a sort of awkward silence for a beat before we bid each other goodnight. I do not miss the look in her eyes however. Like one who is confused and saddened by the loss of a dear friend.

Chapter Text

RED

Red sat there on the couch, gritting his teeth and had his arms crossed. Jada was one of those girls who were interested in murder docu-series. Which wasn’t all that bad to him except this one hit kind of hard. A story of a boy in an abusive household, trying so hard to please his abusive dad. Red had at one point been like that kid. Especially when Edge came around. For a time, his father figure, as Gaster was not really a dad. Red and Edge were just his best experiments ever made. Gaster in his Underground wanted revenge on the humans. He wanted to find a way for monsters to be able to contain more magic nd especially the power of a human’s soul much better so that when they returned, there would be no more war, but a conquering and extermination if need be. Then he and his brother were brought here and quickly he found out that humans and monsters (of his Underground) weren’t that different. Humans did all the aggressive crime and such that monsters did but without the magic, which baffled him. He always thought by now every human ought to be some kind of mage. Instead they were squishy flesh bodies with their magic locked away and no idea about it.
With so many humans, Edge and Red’s instincts had kicked in. Everything that was drilled into their heads since baby bones were ushering them to do. Edge wanted to create a small army of monsters and some humans. Mostly to take their souls and then grow his army bigger to overtake the city. Red wanted to invent a machine of his own that drains the magic out of human souls to store for later. In secret, he was already doing that in his room. He drew the blueprints, telling himself it was just for fun while he earned his citizenship or whatever from the king and queen of this monster world. He got into the mechanic field to work on things other than that machine.
Edge got into the city monster policing, so that he could learn the lay of the land better before his mission. It was getting difficult to hide these plans from Classic. The lackadaisical monster was very good at acting as if he was not paying attention to anything and metaphorical blinders over his eye sockets. Until one day he confronts you and all your secrets revealed like cards on the table. He disliked that with great intensity. As keeping to oneself was a way of self defense and staying guarded all the time was a means of survival. However, coming to this world, it was difficult not to be that way all the time. Also, thanks to Jada, it had become easier. She was the first lady in this world whom he had truly opened up to, let his guard down. Even when he questioned her motives, she was genuine. She was the first human he had ever kissed, ever got intimate with. In public, she defended him with a sassy quick tongue that some humans would envy. Even was patient with Red when he was going through his own struggles in adjusting to this world until even Red had fallen for her.

He'd say things were going pretty good, until Jada’s attitude seemed to take a subtle turn. Red noticed it as soon as it happened but never bothered to say anything as maybe it was just a confidence boost due to the way everyone treated her. Some of the others in the house started shying away from her even more than usual like Mutt. Then Stretch started slowly taking the back seat a well, especially when Sans got more involved in his work. Red was really baffled when Jada had asked about renting the attic room out to this really no good human. Why the hell would they purposefully have someone like that in their house?! Was Jada trying to extend that charitable hand out that humans have in many of their customs? At least the other human got everyone’s warning loud and clear. In fact after she got her jobs, the mysterious female was hardly home.
He also saw the change in Blue. He used to be so full of energy and now he is, unusually tame. The energy hasn’t left, but he wasn’t so excited all the time. Red thought maybe the surface life was starting to lose it’s charm even on him, but that was dashed whenever he went to go try something new. He seemed to love day trips. Jada though only went on a few of them with him, try as he might to get her to spend more time with him. Red understood this, as Jada was almost the same with him. She’d come to his room when she was feeling frisky or wanted to vent about something or ask for money. Instead of sad, Red would get frustrated and leave the house for a while.
Today was just such a day, where he left the house to get away from things that was pissing him off. Thing he couldn’t jut rip the head off, run through with bones or disintegrated with a blaster. So his next best things was to take it out at the trash heaps in the city dumps and scrap yards. Not even humans cared if monster helped annihilate trash heaps and hey, he’s doing the world a favor in all it’s ‘going green’ jargon. ‘The Green New Deal’, one of the greatest scams he’d ever heard. Yeah, force thousands of people out of a cheap and reliable energy source so that they could be in debt for the rest of their lives paying for a less reliable source like wind, solar, and battery. Red snorted out loud at thinking about that and short-cutted to the dump. He stood there in the silence, listening, reaching out with his magic to see if he could sense any other soul nearby.
The coast was clear. So with a wicked sharp grin void of any humor, his eye light lit up and he rose his hands sharply to summon lines of bones, then crashed them into nearby piles.
The sound of glass, weak metal, and plastic being broken echoed about him. Some things he cast in the air and practice his aim as he shot bones out at everything. He had been practicing a new little talent of his where he made other figurines out of his bone attacks. Ninja stars, kiusarigama, the claymore even.
He thrashed, slashed, bashed, and destroyed lastly with a blaster till there was nothing left in his wake but empty spots of dirt and ash.
He could be as aggressive as he wanted and no one would care to stop him. In times like these, he felt his most powerful.
Bones, blasters, gravity magic and the new tactics he was practicing on with his magic was implemented in the destroying of trash and rubble. The human that ran the dump was a friend of his and was just as thankful for the space being made anyway.
By the end of the thrashing about, three giant heaps were cleared off with nothing but tiny flecks of pieces and dirt remained. He took in deep breaths, panting from the exertion he did on his body.

“Feeling better brother?”

Red blinked and started. He quickly looked around for Edge….but…he wasn’t there.
He huffed and ignored it, until he heard hi voice again.

“You can clean the dump, but not your room.” Edge lightly teased.

Red whirled around. “Hey! Stop with the hiding bro! What do ya want?!”

“Can’t I check up on my brother once in a while?” Edge’s unusually whispy voice answered. “We are not underground anymore. I do not have to act as if I’m coming to beat you.” He answered, in a way that had Red spinning round again.

“Yeh don’t havta’ play hide an’ seek either.” Red grumbled as he thought he saw a red scarf billowing at his right. Though when he looked, Edge wasn’t there. Red scoffed irritably, though it wasn’t actually out of irritation. It was a habitual noise he made since the Underground, as a way of masking his uncertainty (weakness) as just being annoyed. “Why’re you here?” He asked as he crossed his arms.

“To know what has you in such a mood.” Edge replied. “Aren’t you happy with your life now?”

Red growled as he gritted his sharp teeth. He didn’t immediately answer as he weighed the options. “It’s, yeah. It’s better than the Underground. I guess.” He mumbled.

“You guess? You mean that it IS. No more ‘being the toughest monster.’ No more ‘under the table deals’ just to seek help. You’ve got a human lady who loves you and meets all your needs. Speaking of, She has really been paying us the most attention. Notice how she doesn’t spend as much quality time with Blue and Papyrus? Sans and Razz? You and I are just naturally the better versions.”

Red blinked at the realization. He hadn’t noticed that honestly, but he does always notice when Edge gives a rare compliment to him. He was right about this, and somehow, it made him relax. More so at the fact that he really could be himself and someone liked him for it.

“From the beginning we always knew we were the toughest. Humans like the ‘tough, dark and mysterious’.” Edge half joked. “We have it made, everything we truly deserve and all you need to do is keep being the Great and Terrible Edge, and his Bad ass brother. Jada will throw herself at your feet won’t she.”

Red really liked the sound of that. He should have looked at it that way from the beginning. He really did have a lot going for him. So really, why was he so disgruntled still? He could do nearly anything he wanted. He fantasized about opening up some healthy meat market and selling good, non GMO food to humans at cheaper prices. Then going home and Jada riding him in front of the others…

Red shook his head to clear it, an easy going smile on his face now. “Yeah. Yer right boss. Heh…thanks.” He said as he tucked his hands in his pockets and started off again. “ See ya at home.”

From behind Red, a ghostly figure manifested itself for a brief moment. The upper half of Edge with completely red sockets and disembodied, gloved hands smiling to himself at the success of his little musings in Red’s earhole.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

PAPYRUS

Back in their days underground, it was Papyrus who was always the ‘workaholic’ type. Always trying to push himself ‘safely’ to do more, learn more, be better. As he reached his adult life, he had learned just how much people excluded him on things despite his ambition to partake in it.
and he hated it…
It felt on the edge of underestimating him, disrespecting him even.
However he hated the discourse that followed after he’d try to argue his point and get nowhere other than the two not speaking for several days. So he wisened up, learned how important patience really was and just how much harder it was to practice that than training has ever been. He learned it first with his lazy brother. He practiced it next with the shyrens in Waterfall, with Undyne when she wouldn’t give him a straight answer. Sometimes, it annoyed him to no end when he was waiting on people, hoping they’d call him back, or invite him to some festival. He found it frustrating when he’d be the first to call or text someone and only have the time they’d answer, but never make the first initiative. It was a lot of mental strength that Papyrus rarely got any help on how to train for.
Yet he understood it had to be done if he was also going to deal with humans every day now. Humans were much more complicated.
He also was the first to always encourage someone to change for the better, whether his belief in them was misplaced or not, that was theirs to decide. He would not stop encouraging for the better. He was the first actually to help Jada out of some sort of depressive state she had fallen into at one time. They were not dating yet, she had only just moved in. Sans had taken a liking to her because she had offered to help Papyrus with keeping house for (at least) eight monsters and occasionally more.
“DEAR JADA. I DO NOT MEAN TO SOUND TOO ALARMING OR HOPELESS, BUT I UNDERSTAND HUMANS STILL HAVE A LIMITED TIME ON THIS EARTH RIGHT NOW. YOU MUST NOT ALLOW THESE DARK THOUGHTS TO WIN EVERYDAY AND MISS YOUR PURPOSE ENTIRELY. REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE DESTINED FOR GREAT THINGS. THINGS THAT EVEN THE IMORTAL LIVES OF MONSTERS CANNOT HOPE TO ACHIEVE.”

“Ugh, Papyrus, there’ nine billion humans in the world. Anyone can do what I do.”

“PERHAPS, BUT NO ONE CAN LIVE YOUR LIFE. THEY HAVE THEIR OWN PURPORSE TO FULFILL. WHAT A TERRIBLE SHAME IT WOULD BE IF YOU CHOSE NOT TO LIVE THE LIFE CRAFTED JUST FOR YOU.”
Then sometimes his brother would add his two cents.
“Hey kid. Heh, believe me I don’t like dealing with anything too hard either. But, coming from a guy who knows it, I’m telling ya, it won’t get better on it’s own. It won’t magically disappear either. I’ve tried. The fact is ya only end up hurting those around ya. An’ with humans having such a powerful soul, we monsters can sense it when we’re in the same room with ya, and it isn’t a fun feeling. It’s, pretty influential. So, if not for yourself, stick it out for the people who really care about you.”

Slowly, Jada had navigated out of the dreary fog that oppressed her and she really became more like a second shining star to them all. She went back to school and is working on her Master’s degree now.
Papyrus felt a blossoming well of joy and a little pride in er for finally choosing the hard trek of getting out of that ‘funk’ as some humans call it, and creating a decent life that she would be proud of without needing to compare herself to others. Her confidence grew and grew until hers almost reflected Papyrus’s own.

However, in this recent year since the new human had moved in, Papyrus noticed a change in the whole house. He was again admiring how Jada extended her helping hand to an old high school friend just as he had done for her. He believed that this was going to be a good change for the new human to be a good person and not everything that Jada had mentioned she was. Sans warned him not to get too close or let his guard down. So he didn’t, however he couldn’t just outright act as cold and aggressive as the others. With every short interaction he had with Alicia, he had never felt in danger, verbally attacked, or disrespected in any way. In fact, he saw her less and less each month. Alicia went to extreme lengths to stay out of everyone’s way, ghosting by without a greeting hello or goodbye with anything more than a nod should she make eye contact with anyone.
Ah but then there were the Horror brothers, who had taken quite a liking to her. He hadn’t seen Axe and Trap so active in a long while, and then they built a marvelous bath house that even Papyrus enjoyed from time to time. Perhaps it was just a certain ‘type’ that Alicia could ‘click’ with?
Perhaps the brothers and the human found something in common, just as the way Papyrus had found gardening to be a common interest.
Right now I am in the kitchen, cleaning things up a little bit. Everything is always easier to think about when you have a clean home I always believe. Although I have noticed the first story of the house to be rather tidy today. I know it isn’t Edge and his busy work week. Maybe the others have also decided not to leave about such a mess this week either. That makes me smile at the thought of the other lazier versions of us deciding not to cause such a mess for the rest of us to have to clean. Perhaps they realize the value and benefit o organized house, organized thoughts.
It certainly helped me to think clearer when I am in a clean and straightened environment. In the midst of it all, Stretch comes in, half dragging himself in to get a cold monster soda from the fridge.
“Hey Pap.” He greeted me.
“GREETINGS STRETCH. FINISHED YOUR WORIK DAY?”
“Yeah. Just got off. You and Blue cleaning the house today?”
At this question I pause and look at him. “I DID NOT KNOW BLUE WAS CLEANING TODAY. THAT WOULD EXPLAIN THE LACK OF MESS HERE.”
Stretch though, let out a sigh instead of smiling at how proud he usually is of his brother.
“My bro had always been energetic in nearly anything, but lately, that energy has felt tainted by something unusual. There’s this sense of anxiousness, like he is trying a little too hard to impress someone.” Stretch said as he sit at the table.
I immediately think of Jada and voice as much.
“I suspect as much too, with the way she has been treating him recently.” Stretch answers and takes a pull of his drink.
“HM? WHAT DO YOU MEAN?”
“She hasn’t been spending any time with him much. It’s short conversations, talk of plans but none of them involve the two of them spending time with each other. Ya know, like date mates are supposed to. I think it’s getting to him. He’s been getting more and more restless.” Stretch pointed out his concerns.
“INTERESTING.” I muttered as I rubbed my jaw. “I’M SURE IT WILL PASS THOUGH.
WE HAVE TO BE PATIENT AND SHARE JADA WITH THE OTHERS AFTER ALL.I THINK BLUE MAY BE WORRIED FOR NOTHING. I SHALL REASSURE HIM WHEN I SEE HIM AGAIN.”
“Thanks Pap. He’s bound to listen to you.” Stretch commented with a grateful smile.
Papyrus flashed his brilliant smile to his counterpart then glanced at the clock when he might be expecting Blue to be home.
Blue would normally be home an hour ago, unless he stopped at a store somewhere, which is not unusual.
So Papyrus jut went back to finishing up his own straightening and cleaning. He didn’t have much more to do and so he finished up quickly. He thought of something to welcome Blue home and settled on one of his favorite iced drinks which was a tall glass of peach tea, (sugar free of course)
As Papyrus sat on his usual arm chair, two large glasses of iced peach tea on the table, the door had finally opened. The way he opens the door, in a calm and gentle manner like making sure to never slam the door, was one of the telltale signs of Blue’s arrival.

“BLUE? IS THAT YOU?”

“Yes Pap. Only Me.” Lue answered casually as he locked back the door and walked in with a plastic bag in one hand and a large teddy bear in the other. Papyrus greeted him with his usual smile, this time laced with a knowing empathy for Blue. Obviously those gifts were for Jada and it confirmed Stretch’s worries. “I’VE MADE YOUR FAVORITE, AND I’VE CLEANED UP THE HOUSE SO THERE IS NO NEED TO GO OVER IT TILL NEXT WEEK.”

Oh, Thanks Papyrus. I Cleaned It Earlier As Well. Between Us, The House Shall Remain Spotless.” Blue smiled. “Is Jada Home?”

“NOT YET. COME AND RELAX WITH ME. BREAKS ARE ALSO VERY IMPORTANT FOR BUSY BODIES LIKE OURSELVES.” Papyrus encouraged.
Blue hesitated for a short second before he finally came over to sit. After he took a pull of his glass, Papyrus began again.
“IT SEEMS I RARELY GET TIME TO TALK WITH YOU RECENTLY. HOW ARE YOU DOING? HOW’S WORK?”

“I’m Fine.” Blue said in an all too automatic manner. “Work Has Become A little Busier, But Nothing Out Of The Norm. “He waved it off.

“AND, HOW ARE YOU AND JADA DOING?” Papyrus asked carefully.

“I Have Brought Her A Gift. I Want To Ask Her Out On A Date With Me When She Gets Home.” Blue smiled and brandished the plushie in his other hand. He looked so excitable, yet he was a few octaves quieter than his usual excitement. Papyrus wondered if maybe he was just a little tired or if he was faking some of this hope for his plans.
“WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU TWO SPENT TIME TOGETHER?”
Blue’s shoulders dropped visibly. “She Rarely Speaks To Me Unless She Needs Something. But! Today I Shall Woo Her Again With My Magnificent Dating Skills! She Loves Gifts, So This Is Bound To Get Her Attention!”
Papyrus smiled brightly towards him. “INDEED IT IS! I BELIEVE IN YOU BLUE!”
The door opened again, this time much, much quieter. Papyrus couldn’t identify who would open the front door that softly. He waited to see who walked down the open hallway as Blue chattered about his plans. To his mild surprise, it as the other human. Was she always this quiet?

“AH, HUMAN ALICIA. YOU HAD AN EARLY SHIFT TODAY AS WELL? HOW WAS WORK?” Papyrus waved as she came into view.
Blue turned around to regard her as she came in as well.
“It was productive thanks for asking.” Alicia replied politely. Papyrus watched as her eyes flickered to Blue and she gave a short, tense nod, her lips going to a thin line and less of a smile as their eyes met.
“WOULD YOU CARE FOR SOME ICED PEACH TEA? I HAVE MADE A WHOLE PITCHER FULL IN THE KITCHEN.” Papyrus added real quick before things got any more awkward.
Alicia blinked in surprise. “I can, have some too? Yes please, but, I’m not really allowed in the kitchen unless I’m filling my water tank.” She held up the silver and black gallon sized, metal water jug she always lugged with her going to work.
“NOT TO WORRY! I’LL FETCH IT FOR YOU!” Papyrus immediately jumped up before he even thought about his next words or actions. He remembered hearing about that odd ban that edge put on her. He was concerned at first, as how would she get sustenance? But she had assured him that she had food in her room now, which was beginning to sound like she turned it into a small apartment.
He quickly poured her a glass and came back out to find her further away from the living room where Blue was sitting and closer to the archway of the kitchen. She smiled up at him in gratitude for the drink as he passed it to her. “Thank you Papyrus,” she said and took a drink with another smile. “This really hits the spot, so refreshing after a long day.”
“WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN US IN THE LIVING ROOM?” He invited her.
“Er…no thank you sorry. I have some things to do.” Alicia replied softly and then with a soft goodbye, she made a brisk pace up the stairs.
His eye lights went to Blue, who in turn looked like someone in a doctor’s waiting room. How very odd. Did she not want to talk with Blue?
He dropped it for now, but compartmentalized it for later. Instead, he went back to sit with Blue and back to their previous conversation. “ANYWAY, I AM HAPPY TO SEE THAT YOU ARE STILL DOING GOOD BLUE, AND I AM SORRY IF IT SEEMS LIKE JADA HAS NOT BEEN GIVING YOU THE ADEQUETE ATTENTION YOU DESERVE. I SAY IT IS ONLY TEMPORARY. SOON SHE WILL BE THROWING HERSELF IN YOUR ARMS AND SHOWERING YOU WITH KISSES.”

The smaller skeleton brightened up like someone flicking on the lights, sitting up straighter and chuckling in confidence. “You Are Right Papyrus! I Simply Need To Be Patient. She Has A Busy Schedule Afterall.”

ALICIA

Seeing how everyone socialized, whether it was re-establishing the pecking order or just bantering, then they’d just enjoy each others’ company around the TV at the end of the day, it was a wonderful sight that Alicia was not a part of at this house. Not that she didn’t want to be but that she was not wanted.
Over time, it became a motivator, that if she was not wanted, then she would make sure that she was at least needed. Options to do that at this house was a little limited, but she kept things open. She’d add more skills under her belt or on her resume, whether that was learning a new language, a new handyman skill at home or work, she was trying something.
In fact, comments from the others like;

“WHY DO YOU HAVE TO KEEP BORROWING PAPS’S CLEANING SUPPLIES?!”

“Stars did yeh bathe in Clorox? I can smell tha’ shit from the stairs!”

“You cut the grass huh? Guess I gotta pay you for it.”

“THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME HOW TO GARDEN BETTER HUMAN!”

As long as she did a good job in everything, no half ass-ing, the rude comments died down to nothing more than looks. Which were much easier to ignore.
Especially when every once in a while she got a compliment from Papyrus, Bear or Lion.
She did notice too that in trying to ignore the others, it made it easier for Mutt to surprise her with his presence. Though he wasn’t really trying to stalk her, but the fact that she didn’t hear him come in or out, or sometimes even notice him on the couch or a chair, it was always enough to unnerve her and make her leave quickly. Who knows when the next time he’ll want to maul her would be after all.

One evening she spent with the Horror brothers in their house, watching a movie and pigging out,
Bear turned his head so his red eye could see her better. “You’ve been runnin’ yerself ragged. Don’t try to deny it.”
Alicia certainly couldn’t and didn’t try to, with a massage gun pounding at the bottoms of her feet. “…Yeah.”
“Why are ya doing that?” Bear asked more directly.
“I, well…” Alicai thought about her answer. In truth she already had the answers in her head, but never thought about having to explain them to someone else, and not sound weird or crazy. “I work two jobs because it keeps me out of the house more. Which means less to blame on me. And I started helping around the house a little more like cutting the lawn, helping the garden, cleaning the little living room up so that I look responsible, helpful and…needed.” Alicia pursed her lips and sighed softly. “Though now that I think about it, I’m not really needed at this lodge ever. They do all those things on their own and only stopped because I was doing it. So, maybe appreciated and wanted would be good.”
“Hm. Not what I was expecting ta hear. I had a different guess in mind.” Bear rumbled next to her as he leaned his head back.
“What did you think?” She couldn’t help but ask.
“Thought you were doing all that because you were letting that diva bitch boss you around.” He answered.
“Jada? Well she does try to, but I never really listen and she can’t when I’m gone so long too.”
Lion walked back into the room after putting away some clean dishes. “And What Was That I Heard About Wanting To Be Wanted?”
At this Alicia’s hands fidgeted. “I thought, maybe if I help out more then they wouldn’t be so inclined to hate me.” She had a weak smile on her face at that.
“Tiger, Jada isn’t yer friend. You may have been friends before, but those days are gone now. Not coming back.” Bear rumbled.
Hearing this didn’t sting as much as it should have, maybe because Alicia hoped that they could be friends again. She merely looked down at the floor.
“My Brother Is right, Surely You Know Jada Has Been Quick To Blame You First. It Is Not A Pleasant Thing To Face, But We Have To Face It At Some Point, Believe Me.” Lion said as he took a seat in the lazy chair. “Back At Our, Old Home, It Was Very Difficult To Face Harsh Changes. Some Terrible Ones That Required Tough Actions. But Living On False Hope Isn’t Good For You Either.”
“Neither is running yerself down to try and please other people who don’t deserve it.” Bear threw in.
“But, I can kinda understand your strategy. Building a good reputation will ensure any false accusations don’t stand a chance.”
“But You Do Know That You Are Always Wanted Here Right?” Trap asked next. “It Does Not Matter What The Others Say, Bear And I Care For You, You Have Nothing To Prove To Us.” He said in a sincere and resolute voice that had Alicia’s heart melting, almost as if she could finally take a deep breath she hadn’t realized she’d been refusing.
“Thank you both. That means a lot to hear that.” Alicia rubbed her cheek. To really make the moment unforgettable, the brothers flanked her on the couch, scooting closer till she was comfortably squeezed in the middle and all sharing in a group hug.

- - - -

The next morning, Alicia was quietly walking downstairs, the sounds of voices echoing up to her. They were relaxed, happy and content sounds that actually made her stomach hurt some. Which was odd, she put a hand over her stomach as she tried to deduce exactly why a voice would do that. Going down the staircase till the living room was in her view, she could see everyone so, happy.
Even Sans was there, smiling his easy going grin from the couch, Papyrus striking a pose, Red pausing his game to laugh as Edge and Razz shared challenging bantering without any real malice towards each other. Blue was sitting right next to Jada who was also all smiles.
Alicia tried her best to walk on by hopefully not getting a single glance her way, but alas. She wasn’t so lucky…
“Hey Alicia!” Jada called out in a too-loud voice.
“Good morning.” Alicia threw over her shoulder and didn’t stop. She could fake politeness and keep walking. Treat them like any customer checking out their things and going on. Easy enough. She was about to unlock the front door, but seeing as it was already opened, she just quickly left the house. She considered locking it then but out the corner of her eye she saw the reason for the door being unlocked in the first place, Stretch.
Lounging there on the bench where he usually smoked his cigarettes. Jeeze, Blue was right inside too…
Ever since Blue’s outburst, she couldn’t stop looking at Stretch like he was a trap, a set-up, like a high powered bug zapper.
Quickly she trotted down the porch stairs and to her car not saying a word to him or sparing him another glance. She could feel his eye lights on her….orange creep. It took effort not to look back at him.
She started her car and left as casually as she could muster.
No work today, an not really any errands, she had plans to go check out a little event happening today.

At the invitation of a coworker, Alicia had learned about an old building, an old church to be exact, that hosted lots of events and was pretty cool to look at. She had looked it up on her hone and decided that she’d pay a visit on Sunday, which was her only guaranteed day off. Any other day was more at random and luck of the draw.
Today she had missed the Sunday service though, having chosen to catch up on her sleep and just stream a sermon at home with a hot cup of coffee. Today they were having some kind of fund raising event, so why not check it out.

On her way there, she listened to some podcast for a little entertainment during her trip there. She found a parking spot somewhere in the back, not minding the walk. Besides, one more reason to stay away from that house. Though she was beginning to really question her living choices recently. It isn’t much of a home if your best chance of comfort is to avoid it, and she only avoided it because of most of the roommates. Bear and Lion would never be a regret in her life, Jada however was the first. She had obviously changed quite a lot since the last time she saw her in high school. That was no surprise, but to change into the manipulative brat that she is now.
She had considered maybe moving out, but with rent being so high, it just didn’t make sense to her to move to an apartment instead of a home, and she didn’t quite have the money for either just yet anyway.
Approaching the church now, she saw the banner up front ‘Farmer’s Market’. Now that was something that interested her. Smiling to herself, she walked in, first greeted by people with broad smiles and courteous gestures. Once milling about, she was surprised to see that even a few monsters dotted the grounds.

At one stand, it read ‘Monster candy, healing magic and Natural Remedies.’ Now that really struck her fancy. Also didn’t Red ask her to keep a look out for some tings like this too? Ugh just thinking about Red’s wishy washy self soured her mood again. She ignored those thoughts now to read the merchandise.
“Ah. Greetings miss.” The merchant of that stand greeted her, and lo and behold, another skeleton that looked somewhat similar to Papyrus, except more bookish and with scars along his sockets. He had a smile and expression that broadcasted intellect and ambition. He even gave a half bow as her eyes met his. “Echo, at your service miss. Have any questions, or care to try any samples, you’re more than welcomed.”
“Thank you sir.” Alicia replied, finding his friendliness contagious. “Do you make all these yourself?” she asked him first, quite curious of some of the wares there.
“I do indeed. My brother and I. The lotions and creams here I make, my brother makes the candy. The funds go straight to a campaign some friends of ours run.” Echo explained as he reached over and plucked a large card to pass to her. On the card, Alicia read the front where it said ‘Change of Heart’
and a short summary of what their business was about.
She liked the sound of this business and really liked the idea of monster and humans showing their wares at a farmer’s market on the grounds of an old church. So she bought a few of the candies and healing salves, pocketing the card if she ever wanted to buy more online.
"May they serve you well!" Echo added as he exchanged the purchase with her.
Alicia fund his happiness contagious and smiled brightly back as she replied with an equally energetic thank you. She meandered down the pathway, choosing to pop one of the candies in her mouth to try. It had a nice strawberry flavor to it that wasn't overpowering, dissolving in her mouth and having some underlying pleasant sensation that she couldn't place. Maybe this was the healing magic that made monster candy so popular. A board by a bench displayed a little map and program of the farmer's market grounds. She walked up to it, finding that the even extended even bigger than she initially thought. It was also across the street into the park

“Greetings Miss. I see My brother has sold you on a few goodies there.” Another monster, a skeleton looking like a more exotic version of Sans perhaps. Taller, more elegant and mature way of how he carried himself. he was just sitting on the bench next to the sign, standing up slowly as he came over to greet her.
“Yes he did. I quite like your aim and the products you make.” She smiled and held out her hand. “I’m Alicia by the way.”
“I’m Green. Always a pleasure to meet a satisfied customer.” Green said as he took her hand and even made a slight bow. Wow, this guy knew how to be charming. “I noticed you look a little lost, mind if I walk with you? I could give you the grand tour.”
“Ha, that’s quite kind of you, yes.” Alicia already liked this skeleton’s company. He seemed so different in a good way. “So you both make natural remedy products? I just tried a piece of the candy and it's great. Are you an herbalist?”
“I dabble in it yes.” Green answered. “My brother and I are doctors, both by monster and human credentials. We’ve extended our education as well in Holistic remedies for people as well. Although it can get dangerous. So we found a sort of cover-up if you will, within the church family. On some days we are just every day doctors for the public, on other days we’re just hobbyists doing volunteer work at churches.”
Alicia thought about his hint-hint he was giving at, and realized pretty easily what he was saying; actually be able to cure too many people, and you’ll attract dangerous attention, so helping people on the down-low was a crafty way to go about it.
"Is that why most of the monsters are here? As a means of getting away with certain things the government officials won't allow?" Alicia interviewed Green.
"Not all of them, though I can't really speak for everyone. Some are just being with friends, some are supporting the church and getting involved in the community." Green answered. "You surprised as well to see monsters involved in a human religious event?" He smiled.
"A little bit yes. Last I heard, I though monsters shied away from God after they were sealed away due to the war." Alicia conversed.
"That was the initial thought yes, and some still think that way, but over the years, views have changed since. I used to think my logic coudl explain away people's blind faith. Over time however, I embarked on my own journey of ‘Mere Christianity’.” He smirked to himself like he told a joke.
Alicia started smiling now too. “Like C.S. Lewis?”
Green turned to her sharply with an impressed smile. “Thus so. Smart of you to get the reference joke. Have you read the book then?”
“No I haven’t yet. I know that he was an atheist at first and started the book to try and disprove God. But as he continued his search, he found more and more evidence of God and so the book ends with him admitting that God is real.”
“Correct you are.” Green smiled as he strode with her.
“So, I know souls are very important to monsters. Do monsters believe the same thing as humans do about them?” Alicia asked.
“Depends on the human really. Some humans believe souls are not real and it is all just concept to explain certain feelings and thoughts. No monster actually believes that. It is the very essence of our being after all. But not all monsters believe there is an after life that our souls go to. It certainly isn’t far fetched to believe that there is one Creator of souls, both human and monster.” Green side glanced her with a light hearted smile. “May I ask what you believe?”

“I believe you’re right. There’s only one who can create souls and that’s God. He doesn’t create anything without purpose, so if monsters have souls then why wouldn’t they be given the same chances as humans get as far as the after life goes and our purpose on earth?”

Green now smiled and even made a soft chuckle. “I couldn’t agree more. It took me some time to believe that, and I am better now that I know it to be true. That’s not to say that I do not still have my struggles, but I know it’s okay to…not be okay at times.” Green explained as they made a turn towards a drink bar. He looked at the menu they had, but till did not miss the slight grimace on Alicia’s face. “Something the matter?”
“Uh, n-no sorry. It’s just that phrase doesn’t sit well with me anymore.” Alicia sighed.
“Is that so? Why is that?” Green asked not having grown even an inch more tense. In fact his whole demeanor was just all encouraging and easy to talk to, and so Alicia saw no issue with sharing her thoughts after they ordered their refreshments.
“ It’s okay to not be okay.” Alicia huffed out the words as she raised an unimpressed brow.
“That over-used, misdirected excuse of a phrase. Saying that phrase isn’t encouraging any kind of self help, it is actually saying to just put up with a problem like a crutch when you should be resolving the issue. Not pandering to it. Same with too many ‘triggers’. “Ohh don’t talk about suicide, it triggers me.” Bruh, Romeo and Juliet has suicide. “Don’t talk about self harm, that triggers me.” Dude…you hurt yourself on accident every day just bumping your head on something or playing sports. “Don’t talk about politics especially. They’re all corrupt so I don’t get involved in it.” Seriously? Ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away, it makes it fester.” Alicia described examples that debunked many of the common excuses people had out there. When she stopped and noticed Green giving her hard to read looks, she summarized by saying, “As doctors, you probably have to say that to keep patients coming back an making money off them. Or if you really want to heal people, don’t encourage things like that.”

“Duly noted.” Green answered cordially.

As he walked with her, summarizing on a few stands and the products they featured, Alicia admitted to herself that she found his company like a breath of fresh air. She couldn't have theological conversations with many folks and in walks Green like the perfect mix of intellect and comradery, all coming from a monster instead of a human. Heck, he could probably listen to him talk about anything all day long.
Soon they made it back across the street and back to his stand where Echo regarded them with a warm smile. " Ah, you've located my lost brother. Thank you for returning him back to me before someone stole him away."
Alicia chuckled in amusement. "I quite enjoyed his company."
Green shook her hand once more. "Good. My sentiments exactly Miss Alicia."
"Careful, he may start following you around more after that." Echo smirked, making Alicia laugh again.
She had to admit that she very much enjoyed talking with them, and now knew that she could find them here at every farmer's market selling at their table. Thank goodness, as it almost felt like she found people she could confide in...or maybe she was making too much of it. They were just so intelligent and welcoming, she hoped she wasn't making too much of it. All in all, it filled her with a happiness she hadn't felt in a long time.

- - - - - - - - - -

JADA

She couldn’t remember the last time she had truly enjoyed life this much. Sure she didn’t have a harsh upbringing exactly. Her childhood was simple but it felt like she didn’t do everything a kid should get to do. Like she missed out on a lot. Her mom was over bearing at times. Her dad just there to enforce her mom’s rules. It was just after she had graduated college, out on the hunt for a job in her field, did she meet the first of the skeletons, Papyrus. Just a ball of sunshine and a breath of fresh air she never realized she needed. Next was Sans and right after that he was meeting every new pair of skeletons that suddenly showed up. It was almost like a game at first; who was it this time? What baggage did they have? She had genuinely enjoyed meeting and getting to know those who showed up at the house.
Some of them were a little to much for her and she was glad to just be nice for a time and let them leave. Some of them really struck her fancy and she wanted them to stay, hoping Sans would let them and she could get to know them better. In nearly every instance, Sans had said yes. She took the time to build a relationship with them. Eventually she got to the amazing point of having more than one of them she could call boyfriend, or datemate. It felt odd, unnatural even at first. Though the monsters had never pressured her into anything, had let her take her time and re-assured her that they were fine with it. Showered her with gifts, money and attention. She was sure even real royalty wouldn’t compare to the life she was living now. Life couldn’t be more perfect unless the country’s government wasn’t so corrupted anymore. She had finally broken free of the constant strict life her parents kept her under.
She was almost done with her master’s degree (having chosen to stay in school longer now that her date mate were paying for it, and she did like going to college after all). All her needs and wants were met and very little responsibility.
There came a time too when she was getting this odd feeling that only occurred at the house. One she didn’t quite understand until she entertained the idea of another human coming in. Was I maybe a strange sense of loneliness due to being the only human there for so long?
Okay she didn’t mind the idea of another human but, what if they were liked more than she was? What if they threatened to take down the Queendom she had worked so hard to building these last three years? She needed to find someone who would keep to themselves a little more, preferably someone who was also already taken by another man.
Or…someone like Alicia, and introvert who did keep to themselves, seemingly not all that good at defending themselves too. Jada even thought to cook up a few….embellished stories just to make sure the guys would also not get too invested in her as well. Everything was still going perfectly for her now.
Today though, was embarking on a new challenge, which was getting Sans dragged out of that basement lab of his and come on an outing with her. Getting herself all nice and dolled up, she went to look for the reclusive skeleton. “Anyone seen Sans?” She asked as she saw Mutt, Papyrus and…Trap?.. in the living room.
“HE IS IN THE BASEMENT AGAIN.” Papyrus answered kindly as he hopped up. “I WILL GO FETCH HIM FOR YOU.” He offered immediately and walked quickly out of the room. Jada looked after him for a second before turning back to the others playing video games.
“Sooo, Trap. I didn’t know you liked video games.” She tried.
Trap, looked a little awkward at being addressed by her, no surprise there. Often times she had forgotten these two ever existed, and she didn’t regret that. Not after their wild animal stunts they used to pull the first months they were here. She almost lost fingers on a couple accounts.
“I, DO ENJOY THEM…ON THE OCCASION WITH COMPANY.” Trap answered in his best soft and kind voice she didn’t know he was capable of.
“Well, that’s nice.” Jada responded idly. Out the corner of her eye, she saw Papyrus return with Sans in tow. The older brother looking like he could use a nap, but he always looked like that.
“Heya gorgeous.” Sans lazily wrapped her in a hug and kissed her forehead. “Goin’ out?”
“Yes, going out with one of my date mates, you.” Jada kissed him back.
“Aww that’s not fair princess. I’m not even dressed for anything.” Sans already started his complaining.
“And even when I do tell you ahead of time you’re still not ready. So this time, we’re going out if I have to drag you. Don’t worry, you don’t have to get too fancy for it. You can come as you are.” Jada said tugging on Sans’s hand to pull him along.
Of course Sans didn’t put up any sort of resistance, other than glancing at the others like secretly trying to ask for help. He got nothing but waves from the others.
“Uh, sure princess. Where are we going?” Sans walked behind her to her car.
At this, Jada had an ear to ear grin on her face. “I booked some dance lessons with Remix and Tango.”
Sans piled into the passenger seat of her car as she cranked it up, let it run a little and then pull out.
Sans lounged back. “Sounds like too much work to spring on a poor little skeleton. That’s just cruel.”
“Oh please. One, you’re not that little. Two, What’s cruel is locking yourself away for days on end with not so much as a hello to your girlfriend. I know your work is important and all but you need to give yourself a break too you know. Over here living like you’re still underground.”
“Yeah yer right babe.” Sans said in the same manner he would apologize to Papyrus and no actually mean it.
She just let it go for now. On the drive there she tried to talk to him, knowing that she needed to ask better questions than simple yes or no questions if she wanted more than just those answers.
Said skeleton did give more answers, half of them being puns at first till that petered out.
To Jada though, he did still seem a little half distracted, or maybe just half asleep…
“Just in time.” Jada perked up when she pulled into the parking lot of the studio. “Time to wake up again Sans.”
The skeleton ‘yawned’ and stretched, slowly clambering out of the car and followed her into the studio.
“Ya do know I don’t have a dancing bone in my body?” San said.
“You’re about to get one. Don’t worry we’re not going to do any break dancing. Just simple waltzes and the like. Things you can do in your sleep.”
“I get to sleep while we dance?” San asked excitedly.
“Not today.” Jada side steps naturally.
Inside, they were greeted with muffled music and a front desk where Jada rang the bell.
From behind a curtain, Remix came out, smiling brightly at the two. “How’s it going? Just in time for the class. Room three down the hall. Tango is in there already.”
Jada thanked him and walked on, still holding Sans’s hand as they went down the hall. At the center was Tango, stretching and smiling, admiring himself in the wall of mirrors. Three other couples were also stretching in various spots along the hall.
Jada snickered at Sans, somehow being lazy just to stretch. Though once the lessons had started, ever the fast learner, Sans copied his moves fairly easily. She may have tripped up a bit but was all smiles and having fun. “Aren’t you enjoying this?” he asked him.
“Yeah, guess it’s a nice step in the right direction.” Sans punned.
Jada held onto him as they glided through a waltz. “Well good. We ought to make more time for outings like this. I’ll even schedule one every week. How’s that sound?”
“Sounds way too busy.” Sans answered. “I really don’t know if I can make that all the time.”
“Fine, every two weeks so that way you too have plenty of time to work around it. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant of course.”
Sans slowed to a stop with the song and let go to stretch his arms out. “Yeah. Guess I could try that.”
Jada wrapped him up in a big hug and kissed him. “Thank you Sans. We’d all be a lot happier seeing more of you around.”
The skeleton chuckled his smooth baritone laugh as he hugged her and kissed her in return. “How can I let you down after that?”
Jada smiled and kissed him once more, holding his hand as they walked out of the building now and back to her car. After that they went and treated themselves to some of their favorite comfort foods.
“So, Are you at all done with your work?” Jada asked him.
“I don’t think I’ll ever be done with my work entirely.” Sans answered slowly.
“Alright, are you almost done then?” Jada asked before another bite.
Sans’s smile widened just a little in a sort of tired humor. “I don’t think so either.”
Jada turned a frown towards him. “I know it’s a real tight lipped secret and all but, is it really so much more important that you have to throw every day of your life at it?”
Sans rubbed the temples of his skull. “I’m sorry babe. Yer right. I can’t promise anything but, I’ll try to make more time to step out and live a little.”
Jada side hugged him. “That’s a good start Sansy. I love you.”
“Love you too Kiddo.” Sans started until he felt her tense up and frown. “Uh I mean, babe.” He corrected himself. It was a habit that Sans had, calling people he liked ‘kiddo’, but Jada never liked the name. So he tried to stop calling her that.
After their meal, Jada made a turn back home, the ride quiet and comfortable. However, even after they returned home, Jada wasn’t done with him yet. She walked with him towards his bedroom, still holding his hand till they got inside. Then she closed the door all the way and turned to him, eyes hooded as she dropped her purse and kicked off her shoes. Her arms went around his shoulders as they kissed again, deeper, more passionate. Gently pushing him towards his bed and having him tumble on his back, she crawled over him, firmly pinning him there to keep all night long now.

PAPYRUS

Papyrus was happy for Sans. He knew his brother had such a bad habit of losing himself in whatever that machine and lab demanded of him. He had thought Sans had given up on all that about five years ago before Frisk had shown up to free the monsters. Now fifteen years later and he’s back at it. Papyrus never accepted any of Sans’s answers why he was into it, except when there was no scapegoating from the truth, like when versions of their Underground started appearing in this ‘Timeline’. He was always there to help though, whenever he could. He was grateful to Jada, at finally getting him to remember there are other things besides his work to do. He was so happy, he decided to go make a special dinner! Edge wouldn’t mind. He texted the edgy version of himself anyway that he was going to. Now, what’s one of his best dishes besides spaghetti? There’ so many choices!
He looked through his recipe book at the side for help. “HMM, BAKED AVOCADO WITH EGG AND SALMON? OR…CHEESEBURGER CASSEROLE?” He rubbed his mandible in thought. Once he remembered they had grilled burgers yesterday, the choice was easy! Quickly he went to the fridge to grab the ingredients, only to make a bug eyed look and a shocked ‘NYEH! WE DON’T HAVE ANY AVOCADOS!” He closed back the fridge. “NO MATTER! I CAN GET THEM AND EVERYTHING WE NEED! THE GREAT PAPYRUS IS GOING SHOPPING FOR DINNER! I’LL BE BACK SOON!”

“ Okay.” Was the only answer Stretch gave from the office.

And with that Papyrus was in his fancy red convertible and off to the store and looking cool while doing it! It was an easy and simple drive to the tore, traffic having not started yet. He grabbed the shopping cart and hummed while he read his list and carefully selected only the best of each option to gather. It’s a good thing he there too, being such the observant skeleton that he was, seeing his brother at the corner there. He must have short-cutted here while Jada wasn’t looking to get his ketchup fix. Papyrus’ sockets narrowed as he watched his brother stand in the isle and pick up one of the bottles with his hood up as if The Great Papyrus wouldn’t still recognize him.
“WHAT ARE YOU DOING BROTHER?” Papyrus said behind him in his reproachful voice. He knew it worked as he saw Sans startle and freeze.
“Heh..”
“ ‘HEH’ IS ALL YOU CAN SAY FOR YOURSELF?” Papyrus continued.
Slowly Sans turned half way to face him. “Sorry…bro. Guess I couldn’t help my shelf.”
“YOU CANNOT PUN YOUR WAY OUT OF THIS ONE. JADA WILL NOTICE YOUR ABSENCE SOON YOU KNOW. YOU SNUCK AWAY JUST FOR YOUR KETCHUP.” Papyrus huffed.
“Oh..yeah. Ya caught me. Heh, I just wanted a drink, and, you know what? I even forgot my money.” He shrugged.
Papyrus scoffed some. “I AM JUST HAPPY YOU AT LEAST ARE OUT AND ABOUT. HERE.” Papyrus dug out a ten and gave it to Sans. Though Sans just stared at him for an awkward second. “WHAT IS IT?”
“Uh…she’s probly’ gonna ask for lunch somewhere. Could ya maybe, spot me some food money?”
Papyrus sighed softly and reached back in his wallet to pull out a hundred dollar bill, which was not a concern for him, though he was a little concerned that his brother left his wallet at home and not some place public.
“Thanks bro. I can always count on ya.” San said pocketing the money. Papyrus looked Sans up and down. He must be spending so much time in one place, his white shirt was now grayish along with the rest of his attire looking as if it was getting dusty like a lonely coffee table.
“INDEED YOU CAN. DON’T SPOIL YOUR APPETITES FOR DINNER HOWEVER. I AM COOKING TONIGHT!” Papyrus advised before leaving. “AND SANS, I AM VERY HAPPY TO SEE YOU ENJOYING YOURSELF AGAIN.” He said sincerely before leaving to finish his shopping.
He made a mental note to wash all of Sans’s clothes though, as well as check if he might be sick with those two toned eye lights and he looked as if he also lost some ecto-weight there...and when did he grab that tattered red scarf?