Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The boy awoke, battered and broken on the metal ground beneath him. The cold steel seemed to sear his skin where it touched his palms. He sat up, confused. He wiped the blood from under his left eye, the fresh wound still open. He groaned in pain, limping to his feet before losing his balance and stumbling.

“Get up,” a voice ordered. “We aren’t done yet.”

“I know…” he sighed. He staggered to his feet, stumbling before catching himself on the gray walls of the facility. His black, blood soaked jacket kept him warm against the chill of the world around him. The blood was fresh, still warm even.

He walked to a pair of metal doors ahead of him, an elevator. He entered and pushed the up button.

“Do you even know where you’re going?” The voice demanded. A figure not unlike himself phased through the doors and stood by him. The two looked nearly identical. Both him and the figure were short teen boys, with scrawny, malnourished frames. Both had brown hair, the figure’s more matted and wild than the original’s. Their skin was fair, pale even. The figure’s worse than the boy’s.

“No but if we’re underground we need to go up and if we’re above ground we can get a view from a window on a higher floor,” the boy replied.

The figure nodded. He sighed and leaned against the wall. “I’m gonna be honest, I don’t know… how we got here.”

“You were in charge last I recall,” the boy glared. “Isn’t that your job?”

The figure nodded, “Yeah but there was this moment where everything froze and… then we were here.”

“I leave you at the wheel for a second and you fucking crash,” the boy groaned.

“Like you’d have fared better Richard,” the figure snapped back.

The elevator stopped with a ding and the doors swung open. The figure froze as a being towered over them. A living skeleton in a black lab coat loomed tall over Richard. He looked Richard dead in the eye, ignoring the figure.

“Well this is an interesting development,” the figure declared.

Richard backed away, but he was cornered in this metal box, almost like a coffin.

The figure assured him, “I have no intention to harm you Richard. I was hoping you could help me with an experiment.”

Richard didn’t lower his guard against the figure. He lifted his fists, ready for combat.

“I am not going to fight you,” the figure continued. “I merely ask you to consider the follow offer. One you will find very… very… interesting.”

The figure’s voice became a dark whisper, he opened his eyes wide, starring right into Richard’s soul. “I can return her to you.”

The figure shook his head, “That’s bullshit. This whole thing is bullshit. Jump him.”

The whisper continued. “I am W.D. Gaster. Former royal scientist of the Underground. You are likely unfamiliar with such a kingdom. It is now relevant to your objective in our agreement. All you must do to have her returned to your arms is follow the gray doors. Reach me once again. I will document your journey for research purposes.”

“How do I know you can do such a thing?” Richard demanded.

Gaster smiled softly. “I assure you of the competence of my abilities. You needn’t worry about such matters.”

Gaster turned to leave, looking over his shoulder. “Push the down button if you accept my terms. Otherwise, continue your way up back to your old life.”

Gaster left, the doors closing behind him.

Richard went to push the button.

“You don’t really buy this do you?” The figure demanded.

“If it’s true you’re gonna throw that opportunity away?” Richard demanded.

The figure sighed and shook his head. “That… thing wasn’t even human.”

“Then that proves it may have supernatural abilities,” Richard retorted.

Richard pushed the down button. The elevator screeched and groaned to a halt before suddenly free falling into darkness.

Darker.

Darker.

Yet darker…

Chapter Text

Richard awoke in a bed of golden flowers. He struggled to his feet, staggering, still wounded. He felt the wound under his eye. It had stopped bleeding, but a large scar now lay under his eye, just starting to form. It would become more prevalent as the wound healed. He stumbled forward, a trail of blood left behind from his wounds across his torso and face.

He entered a dark room with nobody in it, or at least, no humanoid figures. Instead there lay only a golden flower with a wide smile. It greeted him with a jovial tone. “Howdy! I’m Flowey! Flowey the Flower!”

“Richard,” Richard replied. He began to walk past, indifferent to the flower before him, before it burrowed underground and reappeared in front of him.

“Hey now you’re gonna be in trouble around here if you don’t know how to fight!” Flowey explained. “You already don’t look too good.”

“I know plenty,” Richard growled.

Flowey’s false kindness became a malicious sneer. “Then what say we get to the point? Like I’m gonna pass up for a human soul when one’s weak like this.”

Combat initiated, Richard stanced up, his heart raced in his chest. He took a stance low to the ground, ready to dodge at a moment’s notice.

He had four options and a yellow heart to select them with.

FIGHT. ACT. ITEM. MERCY.

Richard checked his ACT menu, and found a list of options.

GROWL. ENDURE. BRUTALIZE.

Richard looked over them.

GROWL: Increase your own attack, scares away TIRED monsters. 32%TP.

ENDURE: The next hit taken deals no damage. 40%TP.

BRUTALIZE: Deal heavy physical damage to one enemy. 50%TP.

Richard had no TP, so he went with FIGHT. He struck at the flower who ducked out of the way and gave his mocking smile. “Wow! You weren’t kidding! You’ve fought a lot before haven’t you? That stance says it all.”

The flower seemed to think for a moment, and smiled. “Say… you seem strong. Stronger than anyone else who’s come down here. What say we team up? We share a common enemy. The king of the monsters Asgore-“

Richard chose to FIGHT again.

“Hey, watch it!” Flowey demanded. “I-“

“Any who would harm or attack a child are impure,” Richard snarled. “The world must be purified.”

Richard prepared to attack once more. “Wait! I know someone way more “impure” than I am! I can help you get to him!”

Richard hesitated, he stayed his hand and glared. “Helping me won’t absolve you. You know that right? I’ll purify you regardless.”

“How about a truce then?” Flowey offered. “Asgore… he’s had a lot of kids killed. If we reach him together, we can take him out. What do you say kid?”

Richard nodded, but reminded. “You’ve only bought yourself time.”

“Fine by me,” Flowey sneered.

*Flowey joined the party!

Flowey wrapped himself around Richard’s arm and elaborated. “OK so for the record, I’m not going to take hits for you. You die, that’s on you.”

*Flowey is capable of acting independent of Richard, but Flowey will not be damaged by enemy attacks. If Richard is KOed, game over.

The duo carried on through to the first room of the Ruins. Richard spotted an odd pale light floating in the center of the room. He approached it, the figure from before standing by it.

“Yeah before you ask I don’t know what this is,” the figure stated.

“OK so I don’t have any repressed memories of this?” Richard inquired.

“Nah,” the figure replied. “…I think we should touch it.”

*You're going to bring her back. The power of defying death shines within you.

“Saving? It closed our wounds at least.” The figure inquired.

“Am I just hallucinating?” Richard inquired.

“Yeah there’s no one there,” Flowey replied. “Who are you talking to?”

“Eh, just disregard the flower. I’m here if you need me at the helm,” the figure replied.

“Got it,” Richard replied. “Don’t worry about it, Flowey.”

“Why did I get stuck with the nut job?” Flower muttered under his breath.

The duo proceeded, happening across some basic puzzles that a tall woman was solving to pass through. Her face turned to shock when she saw Richard. “Oh! My child! Are you alright?”

Richard gave a dismissive response, “Yeah sure I’m fine but I have to keep moving.”

“Out of the way you old hag,” Flowey added.

“My child that flower is untrustworthy,” Toriel explained. “I would suggest-“

“She’s impure, jump her!” Flowey demanded.

Combat initiated.

*Making an example would be wise.

“Impure?” Toriel demanded. “My child please, there’s no need to fight.”

Flowey demanded. “Don’t listen to her! Attack!”

“Have you ever harmed a child?” Richard demanded.

“What?” Toriel demanded. “Good Heavens no! Whatever would give you that idea?”

Combat ended as Richard turned to Flowey. “Flowey she’s not impure then.”

Toriel assured Richard, “I don’t know what this impure stuff is, but I promise you whatever hardship you faced on the surface to cause your aggression won’t follow you here. You’ll be safe here. I have a home at the end of the Ruins. You may stay there. Come now, it’ll be alright.”

Toriel extended her hand, but Richard pulled back. “I’m fine on my own.”

“Very well my child,” Toriel accepted. “I’ll meet you at the edge of the Ruins then. It’s dead ahead. Can’t miss it.”

With that Toriel left. Richard snapped at Flowey, “What the fuck was that? I’m not gonna attack an innocent… person? I assume that’s a person and I’m just seeing shit right?”

“No that’s a monster,” Flowey replied. “And besides all monsters are impure by your logic. They’re all complicit with Asgore.”

“OK, who is Asgore exactly?” Richard demanded.

“King of the monsters,” Flowey replied. “He’s demanded any human who falls down here dies. Even children.”

“Well yeah fair enough but I don’t know about killing,” Richard replied.

The figure from before entered from the back of the room. “We don’t kill people but… they’re monsters not people. It’s fine.”

“Is that how it works?” Richard demanded.

“Hey schizo,” Flowey snarled. “Quit talking to thin air and let’s go already.”

Richard snapped back, “Don’t push your luck Flowey.”

The two proceeded onward before encountering a large frog adorned with sharp spikes all over its body. Its hops shook the ground beneath its webbed feet as it approached.

Once more combat began.

Richard was met with his foe, a Final Froggit, as Flowey interjected, “Alright enough talk. You’re a kid. He jumped you. “Purify” this thing!”

Richard chose to FIGHT. He examined Flowey’s options as the flower awaited orders. Flowey had the usual options, save for ACT being replaced with FLOWEY.

Under FLOWEY there were two options.

PIERCING VINES: Deals heavy magic damage to one foe. 50% TP.

HEALING PELLETS: Restores 10 HP. 32% TP.

*The impure are everywhere.

Richard and Flowey both attacked, Richard lunging forward as Flowey fired pellets that bombarded the Final Froggit, sending it staggering back before it leapt at Richard, who sidestepped the attack and kicked the Final Froggit in the back. Flowey followed suit by chomping down. The Final Froggit conjured flies made of magical energy which rushed down Richard, biting into his skin as they landed on his arms and drawing blood.

*Final Froggit looks scared of you.

Final Froggit had become TIRED. This was Richard’s opportunity.

Richard used GROWL.

Richard let out a blood curdling scream, a screech of bloodlust and hatred that shook Final Froggit to its core.

Final Froggit ran away!

*You won!

*Got 0 EXP and 6 GOLD.

Richard gathered the discarded coins off the ground and pocketed them much to Flowey’s confusion. “Why didn’t you kill it?” He demanded. “It’s “impure”!”

“Yeah but I don’t kill.” Richard retorted.

“This man does not speak for me!” The hallucination taunted.

Richard chose to ignore it.

“Look I get you have different rules on the surface,” Flowey explained. “But killing makes you stronger. If you’re not stronger when you reach Asgore, you will die.”

“I’ve taken on men twice my size,” Richard retorted. “I’m not afraid of some rich fuck in a crown.”

“If you wanna die, suit yourself,” Flowey groaned. “Let’s just go already.”

The duo proceeded, beating monsters into submission and scaring them away until they reached Nabstablook.

“Hey excuse us we need to go through,” Richard requested.

“Oh sorry, am I blocking the way?” Nabstablook asked solemnly.

“Can you quit being a coward and just attack?” Flowey demanded.

“He didn’t attack he’s not impure,” Richard retorted.

“Oh I don’t wanna deal with confrontation,” Nabstablook pleaded. “I’ll get out of your hair.”

The ghost faded away, clearing the path forward. Richard marched onward, before Flowey demanded, “What are you going to do when you reach Asgore? You think you can just roar at the king of the monsters and he’ll fold?”

“I’ll beat him into submission,” Richard shrugged. “Worked back home. Still works here.”

“You’re going to get yourself killed,” Flowey growled. “Maybe you’re a waste of my time.”

Richard grabbed Flowey by the stem and slammed him into the wall. The hallucination laughed and leaned on the wall by Flowey. “He’s just gonna kill some other kid if we don’t kill him now. It’s a flower. We picked flowers all the time as a kid. So what if this one has a face? I think he’d make a nice gift for Lily.”

“Shut the fuck up Purity!” Richard screamed before turning back to Flowey. “And you! If anything you’re a waste of mine! If you don’t get the FUCK in line I’ll rip those pretty little petals off and make a tea out of them while you watch! Now you can shut the fuck up! Or I can purify you. Your choice.”

Flowey got a wide toothy grin. “There it is. There’s the cruelty you need to survive. You’ll break. I know you will. Let’s continue our partnership. For now.” Flowey laughed, declaring. “That’s a wonderful idea!”

“Thin ice Flowey,” Richard warned.

Richard let Flowey wrap himself back around the boy’s arm and the duo carried on.

As the two proceeded, beating monsters in their way senseless and scaring them off, they happened across that candy dish. Richard reached to grab one.

“Nuts to that!” Flowey exclaimed. “Here! Watch this!”

Flowey grabbed the entire dish with his vines and handed it to Richard.

“It says take one,” Richard protested.

“Didn’t say what of,” Flowey smirked.

Richard accepted the candy dish.

CANDY DISH: A dish full of tasty candy you stole. Restores 10 HP to everyone. You are the scum of the Earth.

“Now let’s keep moving!” Flowey exclaimed.

The duo carried on until Richard found a faded ribbon. He put it in his hair.

“Do you really think that’ll protect you much?” Flowey demanded.

“No but,” Richard replied. “Lily might like it.”

“Who’s Lily?” Flowey demanded.

“Oh she nearly got me killed,” Richard shrugged. “Don’t worry about it. Aside from that she’s great she’s my cuddle buddy.”

“What the fuck were you doing on the surface?” Flowey muttered to himself.

Proceeding deeper in, Richard found the Toy Knife and equipped it, swinging it around. He shrugged, “Well it’s what I got. This gear sucks.”

“I mean do you expect to find real weapons?” Flowey inquired.

“I’ve done so before,” Richard replied.

Flowey shrugged, “Well sorry but that’s all we got.”

“Yeah,” Richard sighed. “Anyways I-“

He froze. He smelled a familiar scent, one he knew all to well. He turned around to see Ralsei with a fat dart in his mouth. He lunged in a blind rage, shattering the stone wall behind the goat as he disappeared.

“Richard what the fuck?” Flowey demanded.

“He was impure!” Richard screamed. “Don’t tell me that one wasn’t real!”

“No it was I…” Flowey tried to find his words carefully. “You truly hate them huh?”

“Don’t you?” Richard demanded.

Flowey fell silent for a moment. He pulled himself up into the balcony. He hesitated, trying to find his words before asking. “Can… if you get back up there, can you do something for me?”

“Tall ask from an impure but I’ll listen,” Richard replied leaning on the balcony beside Flowey.

“Just outside the mountain is a village,” Flowey explained. “Some years ago a… a kid I knew passed through the barrier with a human soul. They… they slaughtered that child. That child was in complete agony and didn’t fight back and they gutted him like a pig! They’re filth! They’re all filth! Chara was right! Why didn’t I-“

Flowey caught himself and faked a smile. “Just saying, if you wanna continue this partnership a little longer past Asgore. I know some actually impure people to go after.”

“They killed a kid of course I will,” Richard assured.

Purity seemingly entered and leaned against the back wall. “Not like it’s the first time we’ve dealt with a kid dying right?”

“Purity can it!” Richard snapped back.

“What does he even say to you?” Flowey inquired. “This hallucination this, Purity?”

“Just bullshit,” Richard evaded. “Look, we have some impure to cleanse. Both here and on the outside. Let’s keep moving.

“You promise you’ll avenge that kid?” Flowey asked.

“I’ll do my best,” Richard assured.

Flowey smiled bitter sweetly and returned to Richard’s arm. The two carried on to the end of the Ruins. On his way out Richard examined the broken rubble from where he had shattered the wall.

*You got the Pebbles.

Pebbles: You can’t seem to use these right now. Maybe if they were loaded into a gun? They could fit.

Richard carried on towards Toriel’s house, where he considered looking around.

“The old goat will try to stop us from leaving,” Flowey interjected. “Let’s just go.”

Richard nodded in understanding. He tried to check out the house but…

*If what Flowey says is true completing your deal with Gaster is more important than your curiosity.

The two headed downstairs towards the exit of the Ruins where Toriel awaited them.

“There’s nothing I can do to change your mind is there?” Toriel demanded.

“I have to keep moving,” Richard replied.

Toriel sighed solemnly. She pleaded, “If you continue, he, Asgore, will kill you.”

“Please I’ve fought men twice my size and frogs the size of dogs,” Richard retorted. “I’m really not worried about it.”

“What do you mean you were fighting other humans before your arrival?” Toriel demanded.

“Oh just people who had it coming,” Richard shrugged. “This one guy real big dude was trying to extort beer money from his nephew so I bit a chunk out of his shoulder. Stuff like that.”

Toriel was left speechless. She didn’t know what to say for a moment. She tried to find her words, before finally speaking with a motherly concern. “You could stay here my child. If the world above was so cruel to you. You could even call me mom.”

“What did you say?” Richard demanded, stepping back. His eyes went wide with fear. He began to shake and hyperventilate.

Purity approached and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Hey. Easy man. Look let me front. I can handle this.”

Richard nodded, and Purity dissapeared.

Purity explained, “Hey, sorry. We have a bad history with moms. Look. We have a world to purify and a bitch to kill.”

“We?” Toriel demanded, confused.

“He’s lost it,” Flowey explained. “Some split personality stuff going on. D.I.D. I think it’s called?”

“I see I cannot stop you,” Toriel sighed sadly. She went to hug Purity who stepped away.

“Don’t touch us,” Purity growled. “I just told you we have a bad history with mothers.”

“Just…” Toriel pleaded. “Be better, won’t you?”

Toriel left in a hurry, as if trying to hide her tears.

“Finally,” Flowey groaned. “Hey Purity, can you let Richard back at the helm?”

“Yeah sure whatever,” Purity shrugged. He seemed to exit Richard’s body and walked away. That’s at least how Richard interpreted it.

“We good did he handle it?” Richard asked.

Flowey smiled, “Yeah. Come on. We got a world to “purify” right?”

Richard nodded and the two carried on. However in the room between the Ruins and Snowdin Flowey leapt down from Richard’s arm. He asked, “Hey can we talk?”

“What is it?” Richard demanded.

“You may have noticed that everyone wants to kill humans down here,” Flowey explained. “And you seem… unstable.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Richard demanded.

“I…” Flowey chose his words carefully to facilitate his manipulation. “I don’t think you’re capable of fulfilling our partnership like this. But a soul is a powerful thing. A soul like yours, the color of JUSTICE. With that I could kill Asgore, and fulfill whatever your desire is. As vague as you’ve been.”

“So what I die and you finish the job?” Richard demanded. “Maybe that’s not such a bad idea.”

“Yeah!” Flowey exclaimed. Tendrils appeared from the ground beside him. “I’ll make it painless I promise. You just gotta-“

“He’s an impure remember?” Purity rushed in, screaming. “He’s manipulating us you dumb fuck!”

“Wait yeah you attacked me,” Richard glared. “You’re still an impure. I have to purify you at some point.”

“Maybe I wasn’t clear,” Flowey sneered. “You’re clearly unstable and judging by your reaction to my offer, willing to die. You don’t have the will, the DETERMINATION to fulfill our partnership. Giving your soul is the only way either of us get what we want. I should have realized sooner but I guess… you reminded me of that cowboy. I’m done going soft on you. We will fail if we proceed like this. Give it to me. Now.”

“Try and take it you fucking overgrown dandelion,” Richard growled.

Combat initiated.

*Your so-called “friend”.

Richard lunges forward, stabbing the laughing flower with the plastic blade. Bits of vine fell to the ground. The flower merely cackled in response and bit at Richard, who narrowly ducked the attack before getting impaled by the pellets that flew from between Flowey’s teeth.

*I wonder if Lily would like this flower. I wonder what her favorite flower is.

Richard knew he had to be defensive. This would be a long battle and he had to act accordingly.

Richard ENDURED.

*Adrenaline numbs you to pain. Richard won’t take damage the next time he’s hit.

Flowey stabbed at Richard with vines, which he weaved behind, just grazing the sharp thorns at their end, rapidly building TP for his counter attack.

*Smells like freshly mowed grass.

Richard BRUTALIZED.

Richard screamed and charged forward at Flowey, grabbing one of the vines and ripping it from the Earth. Flowey screamed in agony as green fluid burst from the wound, but those screams turned to laughter as he demanded mockingly. “If that all you got? Man you really stood no chance at all reaching Asgore let alone killing him!”

Flowey once more bit down, chomping Richard’s arm and blasting him with pellets. While he was protected from the first blow the second wounded him greatly, and the following bite drew heavy bleeding.

Richard knew he had to keep fighting or he was going to die.

*For Riley.

The battle raged on like this, Richard used Endure to keep himself safe on the brink of death, and wore Flowey down until finally he got the upper hand.

Richard BRUTALIZED.

Richard grabbed the other vine and ripped it apart, Flowey cried out, this time genuinely, and fell, defeated.

“Dammit…” he muttered.

*…

Richard tried to SPARE Flowey.

“What are you waiting for?” Flowey demanded. “Finish me.”

*…

Richard tried to SPARE Flowey.

“I’m not moving. If you’re going to prevail you have to be stronger. Finish me, or I’ll leave us trapped here. Forever.”

*Maybe you need to reason with him?

Richard checked his ACT menu.

He had a new option.

Richard PROMISED.

“I’ll purify them,” he assured.

“What?” Flowey demanded.

“The people who hurt you,” Richard explained. “I’ll hurt them. I’ll make them suffer. Like I’ve done to you.”

“What if I try to hurt a kid again?” Flowey demanded.

“I’ll beat you into submission again,” Richard responded. “Until I beat it out of them.”

“You…” Flowey chuckled. “You’re really that foolish?”

“Worked here didn’t it?” Richard retorted.

Flowey fell silent. He seemed to think for a moment.

“You’re an idiot.” He glared. “I’m letting you go. We’re even now. Got it?”

Flowey then left. Richard was able to move on towards Snowdin.

Author’s Note: If the balcony scene never happens this scene would change in an actual play through to this.

Richard PROMISES.

“I don’t know who hurt you to make you this way, but I can purify them, if you tell me who.” Richard explained.

“What?” Flowey demanded. “Why are you still trying to help me?”

“I’m more just handling the issue at the root,” Richard retorted.

Flowey glared silently. He sighed, “You wouldn’t understand. You’re an idiot.”

“I can try,” Richard offered.

“There’s a village,” Flowey sighed after some hesitation. “Outside the mountain. A monster human once visited this village. A child. The humans attacked him and even when he didn’t fight back they killed that child.”

“I’ll purify them,” Richard assured. “Beat them into submission.”

“You really so naive?” Flowey demanded.

“Worked on you didn’t it?” Richard retorted.

Flowey fell silent for a moment and then conceded. “You’re an idiot. As far as I’m concerned, we’re even now.”

Flowey left.

Richard could now proceed to Snowdin.

As Richard exited the Ruins he found himself in Snowdin. Cold snow fell from above as he shivered. He trudged through to the next are only to find it monochromatic. He heard Gaster’s voice.

“It was not my intention for you to journey alone,” Gaster explained. “I am sorry I assumed your truce with Flowey would be more… conductive to this experiment. I will provide you an ally to assist in your journey. You will find them just ahead.”

Richard carried on to find a kid younger than himself in a cowboy hat, waking up on the ground. “Where in the world…” he muttered to himself.

Richard rushed over, “Hey kid you OK?”

The kid nodded, “Yeah yeah just… had this odd dream. Why am I back here?”

“Back?” Richard inquired.

“Yeah,” the kid replied. “I died and then there was this cry for help and after this skeleton told me he could bring me back to life if I helped someone named Richard.”

“Oh that’s…” Richard explained awkwardly, “Me. That’s me. I’m Richard.”

“Clover,” the kid replied. “It’s weird though. I felt alive before I agreed to his terms. So… what do we do?”

“Keep moving,” Richard replied. “We’re looking for gray doors.”

“Why?” Clover asked.

“To undo a grave injustice,” Richard replied.

“Justice huh?” Clover smiled. “I can get behind that then. Let’s move.”

*Clover joined your party!

The two carried on until they happened across the gray door. “This it?” Clover asked.

“Guess so,” Richard shrugged. “Stay behind me kid.”

The two leapt in and…

END OF SECTION ONE.

Chapter Text

Things proceeded as before until meeting Toriel.

The duo proceeded, happening across some basic puzzles that a tall woman was solving to pass through. Her face turned to shock when she saw Richard. “Oh! My child! Are you alright?”

Richard gave a dismissive response, “Yeah sure I’m fine but I have to keep moving.”

“Out of the way you old hag,” Flowey added.

“My child that flower is untrustworthy,” Toriel explained. “I would suggest-“

“She’s impure, jump her!” Flowey demanded.

Combat initiated.

*Making an example would be wise.

“Impure?” Toriel demanded. “My child please, there’s no need to fight.”

Flowey demanded. “Don’t listen to her! Attack!”

Richard chose to FIGHT, striking Toriel with all his might. There was a flash of light and…

A red “1” appeared above Toriel. His attack had done nothing. Toriel’s tone became stern. “Enough of this my child. I am not going to fight you. I have no intention of harming you. Cease this violence at once.”

Richard complied, causing combat to stop as Toriel starred daggers at Flowey. “Misleading this child. What a vile creature you are flower.”

“Bite me,” Flowey growled.

Toriel continued, “My child. I am not certain what hardships you faced on the surface. However know, in my care you are safe. No one will harm you here. Whoever hurt you up there to make you turn to violence so quickly can no longer reach you. Come with me, I have a home at the end of the Ruins where you can stay.”

“We’ll be just fine on our own,” Flowey retorted. “Right Richard?”

Richard nodded, “Yeah I’m good.”

Toriel sighed, “I will not force you my child but please, do let me know when you arrive. I’ll have a pie ready.”

Toriel left deeper into the Ruins, allowing Richard and Flowey to speak. Richard growled, “She wasn’t impure you lying shit.”

“Hey man you just haven’t seen her do anything yet,” Flowey retorted. “Doesn’t mean she won’t.”

“Whatever,” Richard growled. “Is anything here even impure?”

“I mean when you get jumped by a monster I don’t think there will be any doubt,” Flowey retorted.

“If they’re impure we should kill them,” Purity interjected. “We don’t kill people but… these aren’t people.”

“Shut the fuck up Purity!” Richard snapped at the hallucination.

Purity merely chuckled, “I mean that’s our rule right? We don’t kill people. Humans. By definition, these are not humans.”

Richard gave no response. Flowey glared, “Hey schizo. Can we got already? We got a kingdom to purify. Besides all these monsters answer to Asgore anyways. He’s king and he ordered any humans killed.”

“If he’s not killing kids that’s not impure,” Richard retorted.

“He is, I've seen it happen,” Flowey replied. “In fact knew one, a little cowboy, who Asgore now had the SOUL of. Everyone under his rule is complicit. Everyone here is impure.”

“That includes you,” Richard reminded.

“I mean we can keep him around until he outlives his utility,” Purity reminded. “Use the impure as a tool against other impure. Means to an end. A stepping stone to be crushed when we move on to the next.”

“But we have an agreement,” Flowey reminded. “Now let’s go.”

Richard and Flowey moved on until encountering a Final Froggit. Richard roared and leapt into combat, beating the frog into submission with Flowey’s submission.

*It looks tired. Maybe you could scare it away?

Richard attacked as Flowey used PIERCING VINES to strike at the foe. Richard rushed forward, dodging the flies that the Final Froggit tried to counter with to land a hard blow to its head. The monster was sent flying back into vines which Flowey wrapped around it and crushed it, turning it to mere dust in the wind.

*Your LOVE increased.

Purity chucked. “Yes now you’re getting it. If we get strong enough we can be stronger than even him.”

“Are you purposing we try to fight him again?” Richard demanded. “Dude he nearly killed us!”

“Who?” Flowey inquired.

Richard shook his head. “Forget it. We have a kingdom to purify.”

So they another.

*Another impure.

And another.

*Living filth.

And another yet again.

*Cleanse this world of filth.

Richard went to the odd yellow glowing object.

*Purify this world.

He then proceeded through the Ruins until he encountered the ghost blocking his path. He hesitated, as the ghost made no attempt to attack him.

“Maybe we can just ask him to move?” Richard suggested.

“Nah I can kill ghosts don’t worry,” Flowey sneered.

“But he’s not attacking us,” Richard retorted. “I don’t think he’s impure then right?”

Purity groaned entering the room and approaching Richard. “Richard come the fuck on! They all answer to Asgore! Their king! They’re all complicit! We have to stop them! What happens if they get to the surface? What happens to Lily and George if they get up there?”

Richard began crying, “I don’t wanna do this anymore! We’re covered in dust! It sticks to me! Like it’s haunting me! I have to stop! We have to stop!”

Purity growled, “They’re impure! They’re gonna hurt Lily and George if we don’t cleanse this place! They have to be purified! If it’s so stressful for you, let me do it!”

Richard closed his eyes and nodded and Purity faded away into nothingness.

“Hey schizo we doing this?” Flowey demanded.

Purity sneered, opening his eyes, “Yeah.”

Combat initiated.

*Only magic will work. Let Flowey handle this one.

“What’s wrong?” Nabstablook inquired before crying in his attack.

Purity guarded to built TP. Flowey did the same.

“I’m sorry if I was in your way,” Nabstablook continued.

*Don’t worry you’ll be out of it soon.

Nabstablook continued, “If you don’t mind I can get out of your way. You can’t hurt ghosts anyways.

*Nabstablook is SPARING you.

Flowey used PIERCING VINES!

Nabstablook was impaled by thorned vines, leaving him trembling in pain with a hole in his chest.

“I…” he pleaded. “I… don’t understand. I did nothing to you. I’m sorry… I upset you… so much. Maybe… the world is better off… without such a bother… like me.”

*Your LOVE increased!

Purity looked down at the ground, a shadow over his eyes. Richard commented, “Purity I don’t think we had to purify that one.”

“Do you really think he could have been trusted if Asgore broke free?” Purity demanded.

Richard fell silent and walked away.

“Hey are you…” Flowey inquired. “You seem… different.”

“Yeah I’m gonna take it from here Richard wussed out,” Purity explained.

“Oh is this D.I.D.?” Flowey inquired. “That’s what you have?”

Purity shook his head, “No I think it’s schizophrenia.”

Flowey elaborated, “No this is D.I.D. Similar at a glance but very different. Guess that makes you an alter. Likely made to handle Richard’s repressed aggression and stuff.”

“Is that a problem?” Purity demanded.

“No no,” Flowey sneered. He got a wide toothy grin. “Let the aggressive one handle it.” His smile became as large as his head as he laughed. “That’s a wonderful idea!”

“Don’t push your luck,” Purity growled. “I’m only sparing you as long as you're useful for purifying the others.”

“Great minds think alike,” Flowey smirked. “Let’s move.”

The duo proceeded through the Ruins, dust dancing in the wind as the duo proceeded. They eventually happened across the candy dish.

Purity grabbed the dish and carried on.

“Huh…” Flowey pointed out.

“What?” Purity demanded.

“Hey it says take one,” Richard reminded.

“And leave some for the impure?” Purity demanded. “No chance.”

“I mean I was gonna grab it so it saves me the trouble,” Flowey shrugged.

The duo continued until finding the faded ribbon which Purity put on.

“Better than nothing,” he muttered to himself.

Before long the duo happened across the toy knife.

“Whatever I can find right?” Purity sneered. He then turned towards Ralsei with a fat dart in his mouth and attempted a drop kick that hit nothing as the apparition faded away.

“Coward,” Purity muttered to himself. His rage grew as he rose to his feet and screamed, “Cowards all of them!” He kicked the stone wall, shattering it.

He sighed as Flowey moved to the edge of the wall. “What was that about?”

“Oh he was impure,” Purity reminded. “Not that you’re one to talk. Besides I’ve purified filth like that before.”

“OK so you did attack humans?” Flowey demanded.

Purity nodded. Richard seemed to enter and leaned by the entrance. He commented, “Not many. What was it, like, three guys? One kicked our ass.”

Purity nodded, “Yeah we only got a couple. I was in the park with Lily when I smelled a certuaj smell. The smell of sin. Of impurity. Richard and I knew he was a danger to Lily just by being there. So we followed the smell, and broke his bong to stab him with. Richard wussed out so I had to handle that one.”

“Oh bite me!” Richard snapped back. “I attacked at least some of the others!”

Flowey inquired, “Can… can I ask something of you if you reach the surface then? Since you seem to know how to hurt people.”

“Filth like you has no right,” Purity growled. He grabbed Flowey. “You’re only alive cause you’re good for purifying. Keep mouthing off and I’ll purify you now.”

Flowey fell silent, and returned to Purity’s arm.

“Maybe we should have heard him out?” Richard asked. “Impure or no he has helped us.”

“Would you hear her out?” Purity demanded.

Richard fell silent for a moment before turning to leave. “Nevermind.”

“That’s what I thought,” Purity growled before grabbing the pebbles and leaving.

The duo proceeded into Toriel’s house. Purity considered checking out the house but…

*She is not impure. There is no need to speak to her further.

*Keep moving. We have a kid to revive.

The two proceeded to find Toriel blocking the exit to the Ruins. She began to speak. “There’s nothing I can do to change your mind is there?”

“Move,” Purity growled.

“My child please-“ Toriel pleaded.

“Now,” Purity snarled. “Otherwise I will consider it kidnapping, an impure act, and will react accordingly.”

Flowey added, “He’s not budging. Get out of our way.”

Toriel sighed sadly, “Very well. Just… be good won’t you my child?”

Purity said nothing as Toriel left in a hurry. Flowey laughed. “Heh, that was easy huh?”

Purity proceeded without a word. As he walked down the hallway Richard appeared beside him and asked, “Are we really taking him along?”

Purity shook his head.

“Yeah don’t speak,” Richard nodded in agreement. “You’ve noticed right? He’s getting stronger. We both are, but… he’s planning something. He’s going to strike when he outpaces our power. Maybe we just ditch him?”

Purity said nothing.

“I know what you’re planning,” Richard sighed. “Look, I know that you’re my alter, like a broken off part of the whole. I can’t use you to absolve myself cause you’re part of me. Just… what we’re doing is horrible.”

“But it feels good,” Purity retorted. “I would know. I’m part of you.”

Richard sighed, “Just… do it painlessly. He’s at least kinda our friend impure or not.”

“What are you talking about?” Flowey demanded as they entered the room at the edge of the Ruins.

Purity said nothing.

“Purity?” Flowey demanded.

Purity slammed Flowey into the ground, initiating combat suddenly and dealing a heavy blow to the plant.

“Hey hey what are you doing?” Flowey demanded after taking heavy damage.

“I know when I’m being played,” Purity snarled. “You think I can’t tell? You’re using me. I’m using you. But I’ve grown stronger. We both have. I’m not going to let you grow even more powerful to be a problem for me later. No. You’ve outlived your utility to me. We both knew you were going to stab me in the back.”

Flowey sneered. “As I said before. Great minds think alike. Fine then!” Flowey laughed madly. “Let’s dance asshole!”

*For Riley.

Richard and Purity were stronger this time, but so was Flowey. As he bit down he launched vines from the sides, pellets flew through the air with greater intensity, and the vines came with greater speed accompanied by pellets.

However, none of it was enough to stop Purity. Battered and beaten Flowey demanded. “Well? Are you going do it it?”

*The world is better off without him.

Purity chose to FIGHT.

Dying, his head torn asunder Flowey laughed. “That’s it. I guess you were right. You really don’t need me anymore.” He smiled wide, “But you won’t stand a chance against Asgore. I hope when I’m in Hell I get to watch him skewer you!”

Purity attacked again, and again, and again, until nothing remained.

*Your LOVE increased.

Purity silently moved on into Snowdin, where he heard Gaster speak. “Your methods are… questionable, but I will continue to fulfill our deal. However traveling alone will not be conducive to a successful experiment. As such I have sent someone to accompany you. You will find them just ahead.”

Purity found Clover in the snow. Clover got up muttering to himself, “Where in the world?”

Purity merely demanded, “Did Gaster send you?”

“Yeah,” Clover replied. “Said I was supposed to tag along with Richard and he would bring me back.”

“OK let’s go then,” Purity demanded. “And stay behind me. We’re looking for gray doors.”

“Why are we doing that?” Clover inquired.

“Gaster and I had a deal,” Purity explained. “Can we move now? We have work to do. You need to keep your deal with him too.”

Clover nodded, “Alright alright I get it.”

The two continued until finding the gray door. “Ready?” Purity demanded.

Clover nodded, “Guess so. Let’s go.”

The two jumped through the door and…

END OF SECTION ONE.

Chapter Text

After the Napstablook kill in geno/“pure” route Richard has a status called “fronting”. This is a term used for when an alter is “in charge” for lack of a better term. This status is removed if the player aborts the route.

The intention is for this to be a hard mode but a bit harder than base hard mode. Hence why the player has an overall weaker party. Flowey cannot be targeted by enemies. Maybe this could be done by having him be coded with 0/0HP but still able to act? So when Richard gets downed the game goes “oh player’s dead” and causes the Game Over. If this method was used his HP stat would have to be hidden or it would look unprofessional. I don’t know if later sections would have stronger foes. I have some ideas for them but some like two maybe just a weaker party is enough in and of itself.

Both Richard and Clover have the usual max 20 HP at level 1. There will be no “tank” character. This is once again done to fit the “weaker party = harder game” design philosophy. Richard will have tank skills but he will not have the boosted max HP. Maybe it’s more apt to say there’s no “traditional” tank?

Richard cannot act in most cases and must beat enemies into submission. This is done as ludo narrative as Richard is a violent kid who relies on force and intimidation. He never learned how. As such he instead has his combat abilities. I’m not sure if he will get ACT options later but I do feel forcing players to play Pacifist in this unique way could be a ton more fun or at least interesting. Though it may lose its luster and become tedious but again he can always be given proper ACT later. I am toying with the idea that Clover has proper ACT abilities and Richard learns R-Action later. Though Clover could also be given combat skills like Clover. Maybe both? Either way even if this is only for section one it makes sparing Flowey via an ACT more emotionally impactful and shows Richard as being genuine.

Richard’s backstory is meant to be learned slowly as players are drip fed information. The story does not have much meta focus and is much more character driven. Hence why SAVING is glossed over.

Chapter Text

Anime Opening Sections 1-2 March Towards Justice

(Open on a shot of Richard bloodied and beaten on the patch of golden flowers. He forces himself to his feet and starts to march forward. The first plays as he marches forward, limping until he meets Flowey.)

I have to march.
No matter what I have to keep going.
I’ll bring her back.
I will march on until I achieve justice.

(The second and third verses show Richard and Flowey fighting various monsters as they journey through the Ruins, ending on Richard defeating Flowey and marching into Snowdin.)

I find myself in strange worlds.
They are filled with impure.
And my allies are no better,
Than those we beat into submission.

But I will keep marching onward.
Even if former friends block my way.
I will bring her back.
I will march towards justice.

(Richard happens across Clover, who he helps up before the two continue to Twoson. The next verses show Clover fighting monsters in Twoson, before happening across Paula. There is a flash, as Richard stands outside Paula’s cell, and for a split second, Richard is seen looking over an empty crib.)

As we march on.
It’s always the same story time and again.
Kids in danger at the hands of the impure.
And we will cleanse once again.

Riley will be returned.
The sins committed undone.
I must protect them.
I will march towards justice.

(Richard carries Paula and the trio proceed to fight Mr. Carpainter. Richard stares at the Mani Mani statue, before screaming and attacking it, images of a woman holding a baby bottle flashing over the screen. The fluid inside is to light a color to be formula. As if something else has been mixed in.)

More zealots in my way.
Impure like all the others.
But they all fold when met with force.
The impure can always be beaten into submission.

So stay behind me guys.
I’ll handle this like I always do.
I failed exactly one time.
I am not going to fail again.

She took Riley away from me.
But it’s going to be OK.
I will return her to me.
I will march towards justice.

(The trio are seen marching on and facing Porky. Richard is shown hyperventilating as Clover stands in front of him. It’s implied Clover is singing the next two verses.)

Richard doesn’t know what to do.
If either of us were alone we would fail.
But he’s alone no longer.
Let me protect you too.

I know people have hurt you.
Even if you won’t tell me what happened.
I’ll be by your side and you by mine.
We will march towards justice.

(Richard and Clover stand before the gray door. They jump in as the final verse ends. Both voices sing the final verses.)

We don’t know what awaits us.
But we both have injustices to fix.
We will not stop our march.
No matter what the cost is.

Stand side by side.
We will march on as brothers.
We will return those stolen lives.
We will march towards justice!

Chapter Text

Richard woke in an unfamiliar cave, Gaster’s voice echoed. “I seem to have neglected that you do not anyone capable of magic accompanying you. To compensate I have taken the liberty of “correcting” your form and vision. Your perception of this reality. I will provide no further assistance unless absolutely necessary. As you have been so far, you shall be left to your own devices to gather allies and interact with the worlds you enter.”

Richard merely got up, Purity standing over Clover. He commented. “Hey this Gaster guy brought this kid back from the dead huh? Guess he was telling the truth. Though the kid mentioned that he felt alive when Gaster spoke to him.”

“They did claim they died so something brought them back,” Richard replied. “Even if not Gaster himself, he clearly has access to whatever can do so.”

Purity shrugged, “I guess it’s just… does that mean if Clover refused they would have been killed? Wouldn’t that make Gaster impure?”

Richard nodded, “It would but we don’t know that.”

Purity conceded, “That’s true. I’m just saying, we may have to purify him is all.”

Richard reminded, “We’ll use him as a stepping stone like Flowey until it comes to that, if it does at all. Purify more in the long term by manipulating him.”

“Now you’re getting it!” Purity laughed. “The impure are worthless. They should only be allowed to exist as long as they’re useful to the pure.”

Clover stirred, “Richard?” Richard rushed over to help them up. “Were you talking to someone?”

“Don’t worry about it,” Richard brushed off the question. “You OK?”

“I’m fine,” Clover assured. “I’ve dealt with similar stuff before.” Clover looked around and asked, “Where are we?”

Richard shrugged. “I haven’t the foggiest idea. Come on, let’s get our bearings. Make sure the path ahead is safe for you.”

“I can handle myself,” Clover assured.

“Ask how old they are,” Purity demanded. “Any kid falls under our protection, especially if they’re younger than us.”

“How old are you?” Richard asked.

“Ten,” Clover replied. “You?”

“Thirteen,” Richard replied. “Which means I’m older than you and I have to protect you. Stay behind me, OK?”

*Richard’s will has changed. ENDURE has become PROTECT.

PROTECT: Take the blow while numb to pain. Negates next hit anyone takes. 40% TP.

“You’re a kid too,” Clover reminded. “We can protect each other. If we’re going to journey together we’re a team.”

“It doesn’t matter if I’m a kid or a dog or someone’s grandpa,” Richard retorted. “I have to pruify this world. Not like that mattered with Riley.”

“Who’s Riley?” Clover demanded.

“I can answer if you want,” Purity offered.

Richard ignored him and declared, “Let’s go. We’re leaving.”

The two proceeded onwards towards Twoson, but as they exited the cave Clover chimed in. “Hey, wait a second. Do you know how to ACT?”

“No?” Richard conceded. “I’ve just been beating them into submission.”

“Oh yikes,” Clover winced. “That’s… that’s kinda not cool dude. Look, I mean I prefer we don’t kill anything but if you misjudge your strength you could kill by accident? We can do that if we have to though I think it’s best if we try to talk them down.”

“How do we do that?” Richard inquired.

“Just…” Clover thought for a second to articulate it. “I mean just talk to people how you normally do when you’re getting them to chill out?”

“Violence is how I normally handle that,” Richard replied.

Clover thought for a second, and sighed. “Look just… say whatever you can to get them to back down. I don’t really mind what it is just… threaten them. Appeal to their morality. Something. Anything.”

“I can try,” Richard shrugged.

*Richard learned R-Action!

*Clover learned C-Action!

“If all else fails we can do things the old way,” Clover assured.

The two proceeded before running into a Mobile Sprout.

Richard and Clover both decided to ACT. Richard began to dig into the dirt, creating a small hole in the fertile soil and then offering it to the sprout.

*Richard digs the sprout a nice hole to rest in! Mobile Sprout became TIRED!

*Clover waters the Mobile Sprout!

+50% Spare!

Clover had a few other options aside from C-Action.

CHECK. This was something Richard did not have. Flowey had it before, but Richard had paid it no mind at the time.

WARNING SHOT: Scare off one TIRED foe. 16% TP.

PRECISE SHOT: Shoot right in a chink in the enemy’s armor. Deals good damage and drops enemy defense. Does not stack. 36% TP.

Clover fired off a warning shot, right up into the sky, declaring. “Well partner! You got a nice spot to relax in that fresh soil! How’s about we stop fighting before someone gets hurt?”

*You won! Got 0 EXP and 12 GOLD!

The two carried on before finding an odd metal statue of a pencil. Richard examined the statue curiously.

“What is this?” Clover inquired.

“Fuck if I know,” Richard shrugged. “Maybe we could move it?”

“Do you have to swear?” Clover inquired.

Purity approached from the other side of the pencil. He chuckled. “Kid, I think foul language is the least of our issues right now.”

Richard shrugged, “I don’t technically have to but I really, really, don’t think that’s much of a concern right now.”

Clover shrugged, “Suit yourself partner.”

“I can try to keep it clean if you want,” Richard offered.

“Pussy,” Purity mocked.

“Quiet you!” Richard snapped.

Clover inquired, “Who… are you talking to? This has happened twice now?”

“Yeah go ahead and tell them you’re crazy and scare him off,” Purity mocked. “Scare off the kid in this impure world of monsters. Great idea. Keep your mouth shut. You have to purify and protect. No matter the cost.”

“No one!” Richard lied. He approached the pencil before pushing it off the ledge into the river. “Let’s go dude.”

Suddenly a voice declared, “Pictures taken instantaneously!” A strange man spun around and landed on a nearby rock. “I’m a photographic genius if I do say so myself! Okay, get ready for an instant memory! Look at the camera… ready… say, “fuzzy pickles”!”

Clover struck a pose, pointing his gun to the sky heroically, but Richard looked nervous and pulled his hood over his face. He turned away as the photo was taken. Before the photographer could speak further Richard demanded, “Don’t show that to anyone. We’re leaving.”

Richard dashed in ahead. Clover reached out to him, “Richard come on he’s just…”

The photographer inquired, “Is that your friend?”

“Kinda?” Clover shrugged. “Not really. We share a common goal and he wants to… protect me I guess? But he doesn’t treat me as a friend.”

“I’ve seen a lotta folks in my photos,” the photographer explained. “And I know that type. I know that expression. That’s a man hiding from someone. Something. Running from it, or towards a solution to it, or maybe both at the same time. He’s got a good heart, but you can tell it’s been tainted by something. He’ll open up when he’s ready, if you give him time. Just be nice to him until then.”

“Worth a shot,” Clover shrugged. “Thanks.”

“I don’t know who’s trying to find him so I won’t spread the photo around,” the photographer continued. “Stay safe kids!”

He was then gone as quick as he appeared, off into the Heavens he flew away. Clover thought aloud. “What… is his deal? Pure, impure, but what’s that mean? He screams calling those things impure when we fight them…”

Clover shook their head and carried on, catching up to Richard. Richard didn’t say a word, nor did Clover, as they knew now wasn’t the time to push. So they proceeded until reaching a familiar skeleton in a blue jacket.

“Hi?” Richard greeted the skeleton.

“Heya kid,” the skeleton replied. “You’re Richard right? Little one Clover?”

Richard placed himself between Clover and the skeleton. “How do you know our names? You one of Asgore’s goons? Did you follow us?”

The skeleton laughed. “Nah, Asgore is a big softie anyways. I ain’t a Royal Guard. Just… a friendly shopkeep you’ll happen across is all. Name’s Sans. Lemme know if you need anything.”

Richard lowered his guard and went to speak to Sans. Sans chuckled, “Talk about a wild place huh? Though you poor kids have experience don’t you?”

“You gonna rat me out to them?” Richard demanded. “You know about what I did back home?”

“Nah call it a hunch,” Sans shrugged. “But hey, whoever “they” are, I couldn’t reach them if I wanted. Just, try to do the right thing kid.”

“We will,” Clover assured.

“Thanks but it’s not you I’m worried about,” Sans replied.

“If he’s impure he should be,” Purity growled. “He knows too much. I don’t trust him.”

Richard decided to check out Sans’s store.

Richard asked “About You?”.

“I’m just a humble shopkeep,” Sans reminded. “I don’t mean you two any harm. Just, don’t mind me.”

Richard asked, “About Ammo”.

Sans replied, “I’m sure you already know all about BASH weapons. Short version, they speed up when you’re about to strike. Ammo however, is for Clover there. They can’t use other weapons. Sadly, I don’t have any for you. Maybe those pebbles from the Ruins could help? Did you happen across any?”

Richard asked. “Any impure nearby?”

Sans chuckled, “Kid there’s already a hero in this world. I suggest you just get in and out. You don’t have to fix everything yourself. Sometimes you can accomplish more by doing less. By knowing when to step down. Besides…” Sans’s eyes went dark. “You’re a bit too violent for this place.”

Richard asked, “Are you pure?”

“In this timeline, yes,” Sans smiled.

The question changed to “What does THAT mean?”

“Anyone could become impure by your logic in the right circumstances,” Sans replied. “Even you or Clover, if things went really bad. But I wouldn’t worry about that, given how things are going for you.”

With that Richard and Clover carried on to Twoson, Richard giving the pebbles he had acquired earlier to Clover. Finally the two entered Twoson.

“OK I don’t like this,” Richard explained.

“Yeah everything’s blue,” Purity replied. “Getting some “impure” vibes from it. Cult type shit.”

“Yeah there’s something… off here, right?”

Richard nodded, “Yeah…”

A blue robed cultist came to greet them. “Hello, welcome to-“

“Go for the throat,” Purity demanded. “Get to the point.”

“Are you part of a cult?” Richard demanded. “Is that why everything is painted blue?”

“Oh no not a cult we just want to make everyone happy!” The cultist exclaimed.

Clover stepped in, “Hey, Richard. You need to chill you can’t come out swinging like that. He’s done nothing.”

“And has this, group ever harmed a child?” Richard demanded.

“We did have to take Paula to-“ the cultist explained.

“Impure filth!” Richard screamed and attacked.

Combat initiated.

*Blue cloaked stain.

Richard and Clover chose to FIGHT, damaging the cultist. Eventually the cultist became tired. Clover fired a WARNING SHOT and ended the battle.

Richard grabbed the cultist by the collar. “Hey, buddy.”

“Oh my turn!” Purity exclaimed. “Let me do it! I’m better at it!”

“Richard, we won. Calm down,” Clover demanded.

Purity began to front, Richard stepping off to the side.

“You like blue right?” Purity sneered. “I think this place could use a little red! Where’s the kid!?!”

“She’s in a shed, we didn't hurt her I swear!” The cultist begged. “Please! Let me go!”

“Oh sure sure,” Purity sneered. “Yeah just… one more thing.”

Purity made a fist. “Gotta beat the lesson into you first. Only way the impure can be cleansed.”

“Please!” The cultist begged.

Clover fired off a round at Richard’s shoulder. Purity stopped fronting. Richard fell to his knees. Clover screamed, “I said that’s ENOUGH!” Richard dropping the cultist, who ran away at blinding speed.

“What the fuck!” Richard demanded, rising back to his feet.

“This is not justice!” Clover yelled. “What was THAT?”

“Purification!” Richard screamed. “It’s worked before!”

“Well it’s not working now!” Clover snapped back.

“Not my fault I had to stab a guy with a broken bong to teach him a lesson!” Richard screamed. “This is just how things are. The impure don’t change unless you force them to! If we don’t purify they’ll take her away from me again!”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Clover growled, gun still drawn. “But this, purification crap stops now. I’m going to lower my gun. We are going to move on. If you pull this again. I’m gone. Gaster be damned.”

“He was going to hurt you!” Richard doubled down.

“He was going to hurt both of us!” Clover screamed back, tightening grip their grip on their gun. “What’s your point!”

“What so they kill Riley and I let them kill you too? SHE DIED! IN MY ARMS!” Richard broke down, starting to cry.

Clover froze in shock, and slowly lowered their gun. They tried to defuse the situation. “Hey. Hey. Easy. Easy. Slow down partner. Let’s… let’s just talk for a second OK? What happened?”

“I don’t…” Richard looked away.

“You’ve said too much,” Purity growled. “Shut up. Pivot away. You’re too close to scaring him away. Then again if he’s getting in the way anyways…”

Richard shook his head, “No. We have to keep him safe. To do that we have to tell him something.”

“Who do you keep talking to?” Clover demanded. “What “we”?”

“Look,” Richard explained. “I had a baby sister. She… she died in my arms. Her name was Riley. Gaster is going to bring her back. But these impure are dangerous. They’ll kill you if I let up for a second. They have to be met with brutality. And I hate them. I hate them so much…”

“Hey hey partner,” Clover reassured Richard. “Your world sucked, I get it, but this world isn’t your world. You don’t have to be that way here. It’s gonna be OK. I’m gonna be OK. Riley is going to be fine. She’ll come back. We’ll fulfill your deal to Gaster together.”

“You don’t hate me?” Richard asked.

“Nah partner,” Clover assured. “We all make mistakes. I… didn’t do too well on my first trip through the Underground. I don’t claim to know you super well but… I know you mean well. You’re my friend.”

“They’re lying,” Purity interjected. “They knows the filth you are now.”

Clover offered a hug, “Come on. Let’s go save Paula, find that door, and move on.”

“Alright,” Richard conceded. “Alright. Let’s go.”

Clover and Richard hugged, and began to carry on. Purity scoffed. “You’re a coward. Let me know when you wanna do some real work.”

With that Purity left the two to explore the town. They soon found their way to the shack that housed Paula and entered.

“Who’s there?” Paula demanded.

“Hey,” Richard greeted. “I’m Richard. This is my friend Clover. We’re here to get you out.”

“Huh I thought Ness would be showing up,” Paula commented.

“Who?” Clover asked.

“Nevermind,” Paula sighed. “Do you have the key?”

“No but I-“ Richard began to explain, before he suddenly froze. A hallucination occurred where the bars of the cell morphed into that of a giant crib. Paula’s face melted and twisted to resemble Riley. The hallucination spoke, “Papa… burning juice… bad.”

“Riley!” Richard screamed. “Riley!”

“Richard snap out of it!” Clover exclaimed, grabbing Richard’s arm. “It’s OK. It’s OK.”

“Is he alright?” Paula inquired.

“I…” Clover hesitated to answer. They knew on some level Richard wasn’t but didn’t know what to say. “Richard? Are you OK partner?”

“Sorry,” Richard shook his head. “I… see things sometimes. Don’t worry about it.” Richard approached the cell door and continued, “Guess we just kinda…” Richard punched the door causing it to explode and allowing Paula to escape.

Paula stepped out into the main room of the cabin, smiling. “Thanks. I…” She fell to her knees, Richard and Clover rushed over to help her.

“You’re hurt,” Clover commented. “You gonna be aight partner?”

“Yeah just…” Paula winced. “Gonna need a second.”

“We don’t have a second,” Purity entered and commented leaning on the wall. “They could come for her any second.”

“I’ll stand guard,” Richard assured. “Paula, take a second to rest.”

Richard stepped outside, allowing Clover and Paula to talk. Clover sat across from her and inquired, “So, how you doing?”

“Been better,” Paula admitted. “You?”

“I’ve had a hell of a journey,” Clover admitted. “Going on another now.”

“You’re not from here huh? You two?” Paula inquired.

“No,” Clover admitted. “I’m hoping I can go home actually. Got some friends waiting for me. Marlet said I could stay with her, so, when all is said and done, that’s where I’m going.” Clover stopped to think for a moment and realized. “Wait so they all still think I’m dead?”

“Why would they think you’re dead?” Paula inquired. “You’re fine.”

“I mean I was dead for a bit,” Clover admitted. “Shoot, man. I gotta get back quick.”

“Wait are you and Richard both undead?” Paula inquired.

“Richard isn’t no,” Clover replied. “No we’re both working for this guy called Gaster. Going from world to world. He calls it “research”. What he’s studying, I have no idea. All I know is he brought me back and he’s gonna bring Riley back.”

“Yeah Richard was screaming that name,” Paula replied. “Who is that?”

“Richard had a little sister who died,” Clover explained. “He said she died in his arms. I don’t fully know what happened but… must have been some bad stuff for him to be so messed up.”

“Is he even, like, OK?” Paula inquired. “He doesn’t seem… mentally well.”

“No there’s something wrong with him,” Clover conceded. “But he’s a good guy at heart. He just wants to protect people.”

“I’m saying maybe this journey isn’t a good idea,” Paula continued.

“I mean you have any experience with this sorta stuff?” Clover inquired.

“I’m supposed to help Ness defeat Giygas. He’s the reason things are so messed up. He’s warping people and the world with his evil. Making animals and people angry and belligerent.” Paula explained.

“I mean I think we can both do it,” Clover assured. “Neither of us are alone. We’ll keep an eye out for Ness as we go.”

“Alright,” Paula smiled. She tried to get up but stumbled again.

“Hey lemme take a look at that,” Clover offered.

Paula nodded, “OK…”

Clover went to tend Paula’s entry as Richard looked around outside with Purity.

“Coast seems clear,” Purity commented. “Can we go now? This world doesn’t seem like it needs us, or rather, you’re not willing to do what needs to be done.”

“Clover is right,” Richard retorted. “This world isn’t as cruel as ours.”

“But that first one was,” Purity reminded. “We do have to purify that world. Besides, Clover mentioned being back there. They also mentioned having died.”

“What are you getting at?” Richard inquired.

“It’s… possible Asgore killed Clover, and if we don’t go back and handle him, when Clover goes back, Asgore will do so again.” Purity explained.

“You wanna go back and handle Asgore?” Richard inquired.

“All worlds must be purified.” Purity sneered. “Especially a sick bastard like that.”

“Well we can go back after all this or, maybe we’ll end up back there and handle it then,” Richard offered. “Unless we’re dealing with Asgore and his goons though, fuck off.”

“You’ll need me,” Purity sneered. “That repressed aggression.”

“Yeah you did great the last time we fought a “lord”.” Richard mocked.

“He was a drug lord not a king,” Purity retorted. “That doesn’t count.”

“He nearly killed us!” Richard screamed. “We’re probably only alive cause Gaster pulled us out before he finished us off!”

“Then if we don’t get stronger Asgore will do the same!” Purity snapped back. The two fell silent and Purity sighed. “Someone’s coming. I’ll front if you need me.”

Purity disappeared by walking away. Three men approached, two cultist and a boy. Richard demanded, “Hey! Kid! Look out!”

“Oh you don’t need to worry about little old me,” Pokey mocked. “Actually I’m worried about you. What was your name?”

“Richard,” Richard replied.

“Pokey,” Pokey returned in kind. “Listen, you’ve been sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong Richy boy. Threatening my boys, good, hardworking men. That’s not right. So how’s about you let us check on little old Paula there.”

“Why in the world are you working with impure?” Richard demanded. “You’re a kid!”

“What an odd thing to say,” Pokey continued. “”Pure”. “Impure”. Such… a restrictive system. For example, yes I’m working with impure, but I’m a kid. So what now?”

“Fuck the kid jump him!” Purity exclaimed bursting from the cabin. “If he’s doing impure shit he’s gotta be purified!”

“I…” Richard froze.

Pokey sneered. “Ah, I understand now. They hurt you too, like mine did. You’ve got that look. I’m sure Giygas has some lovely things to say to you. However, that's not any business of mine. Gentlemen? Make him a nice, “impure” blue.”

Pokey left, leaving Richard alone with the two cultists.

“This… this is for beating up Jeff!” One exclaimed.

The two attacked Richard. Richard lunges without hesitation before using GROWL to scare them away.

“Filth,” Richard muttered to himself as the two ran away.

Paula and Clover exited the shed, Paula now able to walk. Clover inquired, “Hey partner, everything OK?”

“Just some impure,” Richard growled. He turned to Paula, “You OK?”

Paula nodded, “Yeah yeah. Just… had to pop my ankle back into place. I can walk now. Let’s go. We have to stop Mr. Carpainter. You’ll need this.”

*Paula gave you a Franklin Badge.

“It reflects lightning,” Paula continued. “He’s head of the whole…”

“Purify the leader got it,” Richard replied.

“Richard no,” Clover shook his head.

“Not like that,” Richard assured

“Pussy,” Purity mocked.

*Paula joined the party!

Paula began to walk forward but muttered under her breath, “Ow…”

“Hey maybe you should stick behind us,” Richard suggested.

“Finally we agree on something,” Purity sighed with relief. “She’s injured, even if she can walk now. We shouldn’t let her fight. Doing so would endanger a child and therefore be impure.”

“I can help!” Paula exclaimed. “Please it’s dangerous. I-“

“No Richard’s right,” Clover conceded. “Let us handle this, at least until we find Ness.”

“Who’s Ness?” Richard inquired.

“Friend of mine,” Paula replied.

“Yeah sounds good,” Richard agreed.

*Paula joined the party as a non combatant!

“Now let’s go see this Carpainter guy,” Richard growled.

Purity rubbed his hands together, “Oh boy this will be fun…”

The trio proceeded through the base of the cult, before finally reaching Mr. Carpainter. Purity stood by the entrance to his room and addressed Richard. “OK Richard, look. Fine. You win. We can lighten up on the mooks, but this guy? He’s the head honcho. The big cheese. He has to be stopped. Otherwise he’s going to hurt Paula again.”

Richard sighed, defeated. “I know…”

“Richard are you seeing things again?” Paula asked.

“Don’t worry about it,” Richard dismissed.

“Maybe we should take you to a doctor?” Clover asked. “This is… this isn’t normal partner.”

“I think we both know we don’t have time given our deals with Gaster,” Richard reminded.

“Besides you need me,” Purity sneered.

Richard ignored him and approached Mr. Carpainter.

“Stay back,” Richard demanded to Paula at the bottom of the stairs.

Mr. Carpainter greeted them, “Paula? How did you-“

Richard suddenly charged forward, sprinting up the stairs at Mr. Carpainter. “Stay back!” He screamed, shooting lighting at Richard only for it to be deflected by the Franklin Badge.

“Of course,” he snarled. “A Franklin Badge. Very well then. You’ve made your intent clear. Prepare to face the wrath of Blue-Blue Martial Arts!”

*A stain of blue blocks the way.

Richard and Clover chose to ACT.

*Richard threatens to beat Mr. Carpainter “all sorts of blue” if he doesn’t back down!

*Mr. Carpainter seems unnerved.

+5% spare!

*Clover asked Mr. Carpainter if this will truly make people happy.

*Mr. Carpainter seems contemplative…

+10% spare!

Mr. Carpainter countered, slinging blobs at paint at the duo. They stuck the two a force not unlike a BB gun. Richard shoved Clover out of the way of one and took the blow. The battle raged on, Mr. Carpainter trying to whack the two with an oversized paintbrush. However Richard began to notice something odd…

*Richard hears someone… whispering to him. It’s not Purity.

Finally Mr. Carpainter backed down. Richard covered his ears and backed away as Mr. Carpainter spoke.

“This won’t bring people happiness,” Clover explained. “Do you really think this made Paula happy? Or us? Are YOU even happy?”

“I’m sorry,” Mr. Carpainter apologized. “Do you see the mani mani statue behind me? Since I’ve gotten it I’ve been doing peculiar things.”

“Shut up,” Richard growled under his breath.

“Richard,” Paula pleaded.

“You don’t get to blame some FUCKING statue!” Richard screamed grabbing Mr. Carpainter.

“Hey partner cut it out!” Clover demanded.

“No different than a junkie blaming drugs,” Richard growled. “”Oh I was high when I did that”. Like that makes killing my FUCKING SISTER MAGICALLY OK!”

Richard glared at the statue. “And does this thing EVER shut up? It’s so fucking loud!”

“Richard it’s…” Paula explained. “It’s not making any sound.”

“Yes it is!” Richard cried. “Telling me to kill Ness! Telling me to take revenge!”

Paula’s eyes went wide with horror. She demanded, “Guys we have to go.”

“What’s wrong?” Clover demanded. “He hallucinates we know this.”

“That’s not a hallucinatory,” Paula explained. “That’s… thats Giagys. Richard! Don’t listen to him!”

“But he’s scared!” Richard pleaded. “Can’t you hear him?”

“Richard we need to go!” Paula demanded.

“Wait,” Clover pleaded. “Maybe we can learn about Giygas. Richard? Can you handle it?”

Mr. Carpainter interjected. “Please my boy. I am not an evil man. Yet it corrupted me. This is not worth the risk.”

“Trust me,” Richard pleaded. “He says we’re the same. A mom? No. A dad. A dad that used him. A sister? No. A mother.”

“Richard…” Paula begged.

“Trust him,” Clover pleaded. “We can trust him.”

Richard continued. “A song. Eight melodies. He never truly grew up. No… he’s scared. He’s scared and angry and his mom is dead… he… he’s just a kid! He’s just a kid!”

Paula fell silent at this revelation. Richard stepped down. “Sorry for my aggression Mr. Carpainter. We will be going now.”

“Have you seen any gray doors?” Clover inquired.

Mr. Carpainter nodded. “Yes, one was spotted over in Lilliput Steps. You’ll need this.”

*Clover got a bomb from Mr. Carpainter.

“Thanks,” Clover replied. “Let’s go.”

The three left and took a moment to speak in the next room.

“Are you OK?” Clover asked.

“I’m sorry,” Richard apologized.

“It’s OK,” Paula assured. “Giygas was messing with you…” After a moment of silence she asked. “Is that true? He’s just a kid?”

“Yeah,” Richard replied. “I… don’t think he’s evil to his core. I don’t know if he can be helped but… if you can… can you please try?”

“I’ll see what I can do but he has to be stopped,” Paula replied. “Look at what he did to you in like, what, five minutes?”

“Are you sure you’re OK?” Clover inquired.

Richard nodded, “Yeah… yeah. I… I hate this man. All of it. I miss Lily.”

“Hey hey,” Clover assured. “I know but it’s OK. I… I miss Marlet. I miss Starlo…”

Richard went to reassure Clover, “Hey. It’s OK man. We’ll get you home.”

“They still think I’m dead don’t they?” Clover inquired.

“Then it’ll be a pleasant surprise!” Paula suggested with a reassuring smile.

“Yeah,” Richard assured. “Hey… it’ll be OK. We got each other. Right partner?”

Clover started crying and jumped to hug Richard who returned the hug. “I just… I wanna go home man. I wanna see them again.”

“You will,” Richard promised. “We will. Together.”

Paula joined the hug, “I know you’ve both been through a lot but… it’ll be OK. What matters is the future. The future will be better and… you have each other and you have me. OK? We’re friends now. We got each other.”

“We got this,” Richard assured.

Clover silently nodded and the three ended the hug. Clover wiped their tears, “OK. I’m OK… let’s go.”

The trio carried on towards the blocked tunnel into Lilliput Steps. Clover set the bomb at the entrance and stepped back. He pulled out his pistol and aimed carefully. He declared, “OK get back! This thing is gonna blow sky high.”

Clover fired at the bomb causing it to explode and open the door. They placed their pistol back in its holster. Richard inquired, “Are there gonna be more angry critters in there?

Paula nodded, “Yeah but, that’s kinda expected isn’t it?”

“Zoos must be in shambles,” Richard joked.

“Oh yeah I never considered that,” Paula realized. “Any zoos around are in ruins by now. All those animals getting angry.”

“I mean aren’t zoos meant to hold animals?” Clover inquired. “They’ll be fine.”

“Oh do you wanna go feed the gorillas?” Paula joked. “I’m sure they’d love having someone in their enclosure.”

“Touche,” Clover chuckled.

The trio moved on through the cave, past the moles and bears until they finally arrived at the end of the cave where the guardian of the sanctuary loomed.

“Hey we need to get through,” Richard demanded.

“You have no business here,” the guardian replied. “You cannot absorb the power of this Your Sanctuary location.”

“Wait who is this for?” Richard inquired.

“Ness actually,” Paula replied. “I wonder where he is.”

“OK so we get Ness and come back here?” Richard inquired.

“The boy shall never reach his Your Sanctuary location,” the guardian continued. “It’s mine now, and my claws shall rip him to shreds should he try to take it.”

Richard snarled. Purity approached from behind and leaned against the cave wall. “OK can we at least beat up this one? It’s an animal, and it just threatened to kill a kid!”

“I will skin you alive with your own FUCKING CLAWS!” Richard screamed before charging.

Richard tried R-Action before going for pure violence. Clover did the same.

*Richard tries to threaten the beast in graphic detail.

“Your pelt will make a fine blanket for Riley!” Richard snarled.

Mondo Mole appears uneasy. It’s attacks will be more intense!

+10% Spare.

*Clover tries to reason with the Mondo Mole!

“Hey partner! We aren’t Ness! We ain’t no threat to ya!” Clover pleaded.

*Mondo Mole appears contemplative…

+5% Spare!

The Mondo Mole was worn down by the threats and Clover’s pleas and conceded. “Very well. I know when I am outmatched. If the violent one makes good on even half of what he said, I would be dead within the hour. You may pass, but know this. Ness will not have that same luxury.”

Richard growled, grabbing the Mondo Mole. “Then I’ll make good on those threats.”

“Richard that’s enough!” Clover pleaded.

“And let him hurt Ness?” Purity demanded. “I don’t think so!”

“Richard Ness can take this guy just fine,” Paula assured. “You don’t need to-“

“I will NEVER show mercy to an impure,” Richard growled. “Filth like this killed Riley! They’re too dangerous to be left unpurified!”

“Trust me you’ve done enough,” Paula pleaded. “Please, if you trust me, at all, let it go.”

“Don’t,” Purity snarled. “Maybe she’s impure and protecting her own. How do we know she really knows Ness? How do we know she’s not controlled by Giygas? She seemed a little quick to consider showing whatever Giygas is mercy.”

“NOBODY FUCKING ASKED YOU!” Richard screamed.

There was a heavy silence for a moment, and Richard backed away from the Mondo Mole. “We’re going. Step aside. Or else.”

The Mondo Mole faded away as the trio fell silent. Paula spoke up, “…Richard? Are you OK?”

“I’m fine,” Richard replied dismissively.

“Maybe you should see a doctor after all, partner,” Clover suggested.

“We don’t have the time,” Richard brushed this off.

“And we both know you can’t do this without me,” Purity mocked. “You’re weak. To weak to protect Riley. To weak to kill. All that anger you’re repressing… I’ll break out. You can’t repress that wrath forever.”

“Can we please go?” Richard pleaded. “I have to finish my deal with Gaster.”

Paula and Clover heisted for a moment before Clover conceded. “OK… let’s go.”

The trio were approached by a small mole who began to follow them. Richard looked at it, “Hey buddy. We’re uhhhh… leaving.”

“I mean maybe someone wanted to see a Mole before we go?” Clover suggested. “Could be worth the detour.”

Richard conceded, “Fine, I guess we can look around.”

Richard and co had two unfinished matters to attend before their departure. The first was back at the shack where Paula was found. Where he was absent before, Ralsei was once more present. Richard snapped into a rage and lunged. Ralsei, by luck or his own ability, evaded the attack by fading away.

Richard screamed in a blind rage, “FUCKING FILTH! ALL OF THEM!”

“Hey Richard easy he’s gone now!” Clover pleaded.

“He got away is what that means!” Richard retorted. “He’s still out there being an impure! Being a danger!”

Paula replied, “Richard… I really really think you need to see a doctor. You’re my friend and… I haven’t known you long I’ll admit that but your anger is getting worse.”

Purity shook his head as he seemed to exit the cabin and commented, “Maybe it’s justified she think of that? Richard we have to purify this world. The impure have to suffer. Or they’ll never stop. Why are you letting these two hold us back? We could do so much more good if you stopped being a coward.”

Richard shook his head, “This world has to be purified. All worlds do. That’s just how it is. If it isn’t people will die.”

“Richard, two wrongs don’t make a right,” Clover retorted.

Richard fell silent and pleaded, “Can we please just… go?”

“OK but we are talking about this later,” Clover demanded. “I’m… I’m worried about you, man.”

Purity scoffed, “Morons.” He seemed to return to the cabin.

The trio left to the person who wanted to see a mole. As thanks they declared, “Here, this might be useful for the cowboy.”

*You got Glass Bullets.

Clover smiled as he loaded them into his gun.

“Thanks,” Richard replied.

“Don’t mention it,” they replied.

With that the trio entered the Your Sanctuary location. Richard heard a baby crying far away.

*You know Riley isn’t actually here but…

*You miss Lily.

*Lily would love it here if she was just…

“Richard?” Paula asked. “You good?”

“I miss Lily…” Richard sighed. “I miss Riley.”

“Who is Lily?” Clover asked.

“My… cuddle buddy? I guess?” Richard sighed.

“Cuddle buddy?” Paula inquired.

“She…” Richard sighed. “I dunno she was always there for me. Cuddled me when we slept to help with the nightmares and she… she lied to me. A lot.”

“Sounds like she was manipulating you on some level,” Clover conceded. “Are you sure you should even talk to her again?”

Richard declared, “I am not losing Lily as well. Her parents have to be purified. They’re dangerous.”

Clover conceded, “I mean I understand. Sometimes you can forgive people but that doesn’t mean you should keep them in your life. Then again I still care about Ceroba so…”

“Wait what did Ceroba do?” Richard inquired.

Clover tensed up, they whispered, “Paula? Little help?”

Paula interjected, “Maybe we should focus on getting you home? Back to Riley and Lily?”

“Yeah,” Richard conceded. “Sorry.”

“Take a deep breath,” Clover assured. “It’s gonna be OK.

Richard nodded and took a deep breath, and for a brief moment he heard the music of the Your Sanctuary location.

*A memory flashes in your head. You remember you and Lily up late at night. You had a nightmare. She comforted you and held you in her arms as you went back to sleep.

The duo carried on towards the gray door. Paula staying back explaining, “Guess this is where we part ways.”

“We’ll keep in touch,” Clover assured.

“You got a cell phone?” Richard inquired.

“Cell… phone?” Paula inquired. “I have… a phone? You can call me at this number.”

*You got Paula’s number.

“Wait do you have a cell phone?” Clover inquired.

“…shit.” Richard chuckled. “We’ll get one later.”

“Well let’s head on out and-“ Clover commented before a mech suddenly fell from the sky.

“Oh dear what have we here?” Porky commented. “Been quite some time hasn’t it Richy boy?”

“Hey man!” Clover exclaimed. “We’re just passing through!”

“Oh but I can’t have that,” Porky mocked. “No sir. Your presence here changed something. I’ve seen something change down the line. You’ve interfered to much with Giygas’s plans as it is. So now you have to die.”

“We aren’t scared of you!” Paula exclaimed. “Come on Richard! We can do this!”

Richard froze up, terror in his eyes.

“Richard?” Paula asked.

Richard shook his head. “No. No. I can’t do this.” Richard began to hyperventilate, “I… I can’t do this… it’s impure to harm a child I can’t do this!”

“Awww caught up in your little code aren’t we?” Porky mocked. “Pathetic. I guess that just means this is an easy kill.”

“Richard snap out of it!” Clover yelled. “Screw pure, impure, and all that. What matters is doing the right thing! Right now that’s self defense! Even under your code it’s the lesser of two evils! It’s two kids or one man! Either me and Paula die or we fight!”

“You sure this is the right thing?” Richard asked.

“It’ll at least be really funny,” Purity mocked appearing from behind the gray door.

“We pursue justice,” Clover assured. “Together.”

Richard nodded, “OK…” He drew his weapon, “Let’s do this…”

Combat initiated.

*For Riley.

“You’re a quick little rat aren’t you?” Porky sneered. “Let’s fix that!”

Blue beams fired from the mech at Richard, and for a moment time seemed to freeze. Richard suddenly dashed out of the way, his yellow soul evading the beams that would have changed it into a pale blue had he been hit.

“How are you so fast?” Porky demanded. “Fine then! Not like you can hit me anyways! Watching you flail about helplessly will at least be fun!”

Richard and Clover attempted to strike Porky, but he lay out of reach of their attacks, the mech’s legs holding him high above the duo where he could not be struck.

Clouds of thick smoke flew from the mech at the duo. Richard dashed through them harmlessly clearing to the other side of each cloud by leaping through before backing away to position himself and Clover to repeat the maneuver.

“Richard this isn’t working any ideas?” Clover demanded.

*BRUTALIZE the machine. Aim for the legs.

Richard and Clover guarded to build TP before small mechs marched out, firing lasers at the duo that they tried to evade. Clover took a blow to the chest which burned his skin. He cried out in pain before reclaiming his footing. A stray bullet grazed Richard’s cheek, so close he could feel the heat on his skin, but passing by harmlessly none the less.

Clover guarded, knowing he couldn’t do anything to the mechanical behemoth in its present state. Richard let out a roar and lunged. Porky’s machine raised its two front legs and tried to stab at Richard who caught them mid strike. He ripped them clean off, causing the mech to fall, vulnerable. Sparks flew off the broken joints where the wires were frayed.

“Now’s our chance!” Richard exclaimed. “Get him!”

*Strike now! He’s within reach!

Two legs stabbed at the duo, but with two missing, the attack was easy to evade. The battle raged on, Clover breaking away the armor of the mech with PRECISE SHOT until the glass began to crack.

Richard lunged forward for the glass protecting Porky, screaming as he drop kicked for Porky, shattering the glass case. Porky tried to strike back as Richard slammed into the ground and regained his footing. The machine failed, falling over and smoking.

Porky mocked, “It would appear I have been bested. Well, what now Richy boy? I’ve traveled through time for hundreds of years so I’m not really a kid anymore. You gonna wuss out? You gonna “purify” me? No. You’re a coward. You won’t.”

Richard and Clover SPARED Porky.

Porky laughed madly with a wide grin. He exclaimed, “You think I haven’t been around the block? Giygas saw inside your mind. He showed me.” Porky howled with laughter, “If you weren’t such a pansy MAYBE RILEY WOULD STILL BE ALIVE!”

Richard screamed, “YOU FAT SON OF A BITCH!” Before he could strike however, a figure with a bat intervened, striking the mech and sending Porky flying.

Porky mocked the boy as his mech prepared to explode, “Ah. Ness again. Always a thorn in my side. Before I go I ask you. You really think Richy boy is any. Better. Than. Me?”

Porky was sent far away by the explosion, leaving Ness to speak to the trio.

“Everyone OK?” He asked.

Richard groaned and laid down on his back in the grass. “I hate my life.”

“I hate this too,” Clover admitted laying beside him.

“You guys alright?” Paula inquired. “I’m sorry I couldn’t help I-“

“No no not that,” Richard sighed. “I just… I don’t think we can do this anymore.”

“How many gray doors did we need to go through?” Clover inquired.

“He didn’t say.” Richard replied.

“I mean he can revive the dead right?” Paula inquired. “But Clover’s already alive again. You could always just… stay here? Give up? Help us with Giygas?”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Richard admitted. “I’m not… mentally sound enough to handle Giygas trying to mess with me again.”

“Yeah cause you’re weak,” Purity mocked. “Too weak to finish the job. Maybe if we had just killed the bitch Riley would be alive.”

“What did I walk in on exactly?” Ness inquired, confused.

“Richard is mentally ill,” Paula explained. “Clover is undead.”

Ness stood there in confused bewilderment for a second and asked, “So… are you guys OK? You don’t have to leave or fight Giygas.”

“No we do,” Richard sighed getting up. “We don’t know what happens to Clover if we don’t fulfill the deal. Besides, I have to get back to Lily, George, and Jonathan.”

“Give us a ring when you can,” Paula pleaded. “You’re my friends. I can’t do much but I’m here for you. OK?”

“Thanks Paula,” Clover smiled. Clover and Richard got up, first Clover than Richard.

“We’ll come visit,” Richard assured. “If you want.”

“Maybe wait until Giygas is taken care of,” Ness pleaded. “Cause sounds like you’re vurnable to his influence.”

“Yeah for the best,” Richard conceded, before exclaiming, “Right! Paula! Remember what I said about Giygas!”

“You have my word,” Paula promised.

“Safe travels,” Ness smiled.

The two went towards the door before Clover asked, “How… are we gonna visit?”

“We’ll figure it out,” Richard assured. “Bye Paula.”

The door opened and the duo approached. Paula suddenly yelled, rushing over, “Wait!”

Paula leapt up and hugged the duo. “Richard… listen. I have to say this before you go. I don’t know what happened but… whatever happened to Riley wasn’t your fault. I know there’s good in you. Please… stay good.”

“A good man would have saved Riley,” Purity snarled.

Richard ignored him and embraced Clover and Paula. “I’ll try…”

After a moment Paula let go, the two turned towards the door and left.

“You really think there’s good in him?” Ness inquired. “He didn’t seem like the best person. I’m not saying stop being his friend, he's a good FRIEND clearly but…”

“Oh he’s not a good person,” Paula conceded. “But I know he can become one…”

The duo awoke in a warped version of Snowdin. Richard inquired to Clover, “OK yup this is wrong right?”

“Yeah no this is wrong,” Clover confirmed. “There’s… dust. That’s never good.”

Richard fell silent for a moment before ordering, “…stay behind me.”

“You can trust me,” Clover assured. “We work together, man. Surely you know that by now.”

“I do,” Richard conceded, “But please… trust ME. I don’t like this.”

“OK…” Clover conceded. “Just… be careful. I’ve been to Snowdin before and this… isn’t the Snowdin I know.”

The two headed north, reading a note that warned of the dangers of the forest. Richard said nothing. Purity commented. “Sounds like the monsters here as impure. Hope you’re ready to purify. We. Can. Kill. Them. They. Aren’t. People.”

Richard said nothing. Concerned, Clover asked. “You OK?”

“Stay. Behind. Me.” Richard demanded.

The two proceeded before encountering a tall skelton who greeted them, “Who goes there?”

“None of your business,” Richard snapped back. He placed himself between Clover and the skeleton. “We’re passing through.”

“Now now I’m a member of the royal guard,” Papyrus assured. “There’s no need to be afraid!”

“Royal guard?” Richard inquired.

“Yes!” Papyrus explained. “I, the great Papyrus, work under Asgore to gather humans souls for-“

“OK I’ve heard enough,” Richard growled. “We’re going. Stop us or don’t.”

“I mean no harm to my fellow monsters,” Papyrus assured. “If you are lost I will happily assist you in-“

Suddenly from the right a shorter skelton lunged for Clover. Richard turned and pushed Clover out of the way as he attacked the skelton. Sans was sent staggering back by the blow.

“You impure fuckers!” Richard screamed before charging Sans and…

END OF SECTION TWO.

Chapter Text

Just as before Purity awoke in Peaceful Rest Valley with Clover.

Once more Gaster explained their corrected forms before Clover awoke.

“Let’s move,” Purity demanded. “Purify any in our way. Understood?”

“What’s that mean partner?” Clover inquired confused.

Purity merely sneered, “Justice, my friend. Justice, at times, must be cruel…”

“Well,” Clover asked, “Just in case. You know how to ACT, right?”

Purity groaned, “We have to stop these things from hurting other kids. If they attack us they’re dangerous to others too.”

“Maybe but-“ Clover pleaded.

“Maybe grow a pair and can it with the whole ACT bullshit.” Purity snarled. “I didn’t need it before. I didn’t need it back home. I don’t need it now.”

“At least play along,” Richard demanded from the sidelines. “Could it hurt that much?”

Purity groaned. “Ugggh. Give me the short version.”

“Just…” Clover sighed. “Anything you can do to get them to back down.”

“Whatever,” Purity brushed off this advice.

*Richard learned R-Action.

Clover gave Purity an uncomfortable look, but fell in line, following him as the duo slaughtered the monsters of the valley. As the valley went empty the duo went towards Sans, who greeted them with the same smile he always would greet any traveler who crossed his path. The conversation went the same as before, save for Purity growling at Sans. “You know an awful lot. Anything you wanna share?”

Sans smiled, “Just that you’ll need my services.” His eyes went black. “So don’t get any funny ideas.” He returned to his usual smile. “Jokes are my thing anyways.”

Purity’s questions for Sans went the same except when he explained that anyone could become impure. He declared, “…and if you ask me?” His eyes went black. “You’re not a very pure path yourself.”

With that the duo left, now strong enough to draw blood. Richard struck the coil snake, leaving it dead on the ground.

“Richard what the fuck was that?” Clover demanded.

“Purification!” Purity snapped back. “It attacked us!”

Clover drew his gun. “No! This isn’t justice! This is slaughter! It was harmless!”

“Oh like you haven’t killed!” Purity snapped back.

Clover’s hands began to shake. “You… you don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Back off dude,” Richard growled.

Purity stepped forward. Clover staggered back as Purity sneered. “You ever see a human die? Her lips go blue? She goes limp? She says her last words to you? You ever have a human try to kill you? Beat you into the dirt? Within an inch of your life in the dew covered grass? Wet with the water and blood?”

“Shut up!” Clover screamed pointing his gun, trembling. “I’m not fucking scared of you!”

“Oh no I agree you shouldn’t be,” Purity laughed. “Those shots were experienced. You knew what you were doing. Tell me, you claim not to have killed before, but you died. So, how that turn out? However you’re to good at killing to be a novice. So… how you pull that off? Hm?”

Clover began to shake and cry. “Stop it! Stop it!”

“That’s enough!” Richard screamed. “Leave him alone!”

Purity merely kept marching. “You gonna shoot me? We both want justice. They killed Riley. They killed you. Don’t you have people you want to go home too? Do you wanna spread justice and survive? Or do you want to die again? Either way. If you’re gonna shoot, make it count.”

Clover trembled, “…it’s like a nightmare. Monsters attacked me. I… killed them. All of them. And Marlet… she… so I went back. Did it again. Less killing. But that didn’t work… these hazy memories these… like nightmares… so I did the right thing. I didn’t kill anyone… I don’t know… if those memories are real.”

Puritu merely continued. “What’s the difference between man and monster aside from the form? If they’re gonna kill kids they have to be stopped. Asgore, the man who… hurt me. All of them. Come now Clover, put down the gun. Let’s get to work.”

Clover lowered his gun and pulled his hat over his face. “Any who harm a child. OK? No one else. I agree the world has to be… purified. But no more. They did kill me. Many times… I think? And Riley… and then they tried to kill you? We can’t let it continue. But no more than that. OK?”

Purity sneered. “Perfect…”

*Clover fell in line.

The duo continued into town where they were stopped by a cultist. The cultist greeted them, “Ah hello. Welcome to-“

“Save it,” Purity growled. “Do you know where any gray doors are?”

“There’s one over in Giant Step,” the cultist replied. “But you can’t go there.”

“Who’s gonna stop us?” Richard demanded.

The cultist replied nervously, backing away. “Uh… me. I guess. You seem tense. Some blue paint will pick you right up if you just-“

“So you’re planning to attack us just for walking by?” Clover demanded. “You don’t wanna do this. Trust me.”

“But Mr. Carpainter said-“ the cultist nervously protested.

“We are going,” Purity snarled. “Stop us or fuck off.”

“I…” the cultist anxiously replied. “I’m sorry…”

Combat initiated.

The cultist stood no chance against the duo, collapsing into his own blood, dead on the ground.

“What the fuck was that?” Richard demanded. “We don’t kill humans!”

“He attacked us!” Purity screamed back. “And he would have killed us given the chance!”

“Stop screaming at nothing!” Clover snapped. “We have a job to do. Let’s go already.”

Purity turned to face Clover, unaware that a woman in a yellow dress was sneaking up on him. She approached slowly behind him, trying not to be heard. “You don’t lecture me! I know more of purification than you do!”

“Really?” Clover demanded. “Cause sounds like I have more experience killing than you do! When was your first kill?”

“You’ve never killed anyone before now those were nightmares!” Purity screamed back

“I said I thought they were nightmares!” Clover snapped back. “Not that I know for certain they were!”

“Yeah well-“ Purity began to yell back as the woman in yellow stood just inches behind him, drawing her weapon.

“Look out!” Clover screamed before opening fire on the woman.

“You…” the woman growled, clutching her wounds. “You two… what have you done? You’ve ruined everything… you’ve killed people…”

“We purified this world,” Purity retorted.

“Any who harm a child must be destroyed,” Clover added. “I went into that mountain to find those kids. I’ll kill you, Asgore, and any other “impure” in my way!” Clover fired a kill shot into her head, and the woman fell over, dead on the ground.

Clover put their pistol away. Purity and Clover stood there in a tense silence for a moment, before Clover finally declared. “She was going to attack you. Filth like that is too dangerous to be left alive, yes? Let’s go already.”

The duo proceeded into town before being stopped by three cultists finding the bodies. They froze in horror before one turned to the other two. “Someone go tell Carpainter!”

“What do I tell him?” Another asked.

“That one of his goons attacked a kid unprompted?” Purity demanded. “We acted in self defense nothing more.”

“You killed them!” The third screamed.

“We purified,” Purity retorted.

“They had it coming,” Clover added. “We’re leaving.”

The first cultist fell silent before turning to the other two. “You and me, we buy time. You? Tell the boss to evacuate. These two are dangerous. Get Paula to safety.”

“But our orders are to hold her and-“ the third protested.

“I think there’s more important things going on right now!” The first demanded. “Get out everyone you can! Warn Carpainter! Now! Besides…”

The cultist turned to the duo. “This red won’t make anyone happy.”

Combat initiated against the two cultists, who were slaughtered like the rest. More cultists poured out from around them, leading to an onslaught in succession. Surrounded, Purity demanded. “Ready Clover?”

Clover drew their gun. “I’m not dying again. I am getting home, and we’ll “purify” everything in our path if we have to.”

Combat initiated.

Then again.

And again.

No breaks between waves two by two the cult attacked until the duo were surrounded by the corpses of their enemies.

“That’s enough!” A voice demanded.

The remaining cultists broke away to allow Carpainter to approach. Carpainter declared, “I feel as if I am thinking clearly for the first time in a long time. You two… why are you doing this? Is this about Paula? We will return her safely to her mother if that’s what you want. It is clear stopping you by force will only cause more bloodshed.”

“Who’s Paula?” Purity demanded.

“A girl we took from her mother and-“ Mr. Carpainter began to explain.

“Impure!” Purity screamed before charging forward. Mr. Carpainter countered with lightning which Purity evaded before landing a blow that damaged Carpainter and initiated combat.

“I see,” Mr. Carpainter declared. “That statue fogged my mind. I see now this whole thing was a mistake. I must survive to correct it. I will defend myself if I must. However… it appears you lack a Franklin Badge. That will make things… simpler.”

Mr. Carpainter attacked as he normally would with the addition of calling down bolts of lightning on the duo but it was no use, and soon, Clover fired a round into Carpainter’s heart. He fell to his knees. “No… no! It can’t end like this! I…” He gasped for air and began to lose his balance. “At least… I… helped people in the end. Made them happy… right? The town has been evacuated. Run! All of you! This is your final order! Save yourselves!” Carpainter lowered his head towards the ground. “Please…” He fell over, dead.

“What do we do?” One of the cultists demanded.

“We follow orders and book it!” Another screamed. “Let’s go!”

The cultists scattered like ants, leaving the duo alone in an empty town surrounded by their dead enemies. Clover holstered their pistol and turned to Richard. “Now what?”

Richard shrugged and checked Mr. Carpainter’s body.

*You found Blue Paintball Bullets and a Bomb!

*Blue Paintball Bullets - 6ATK. Colored fun for the whole family! There’s a little red mixed in from something…

“They mentioned Giant’s Step right?” Purity inquired. “Must be through that cave there. Let’s go.”

However the duo made a detour to resupply at Sans, who merely asked. “Hey kids. Heard a lotta gunshots and a lot of people came running outta that cave. Know anything about that?”

“You got a problem with that?” Purity demanded.

“Just saying kid,” Sans continued. “That some people won’t take kindly to what you two did.”

“Then we’ll purify them too,” Clover replied indifferently.

Sans eyes went dark as he demanded. “And what if that’s impure?” After a moment of tense silenced he shrugged, “Eh, what do I know? I’m just some common old skeleton. Anyways whatcha want?”

After buying supplies the duo returned to the empty town, the only sound the wind over the abandoned place. There was nothing there aside from them and the crimson stains from their “work.” The air reeked of death and blood as they walked past the corpses towards Giant Step.

Purity considered going to check an unexplored cave but Richard commented. “No. No we’re going. No detours and needless bloodshed. We get in and out. I’ve had it up to here with you as is. We’ve already broken our no killing rule. Don’t push your luck unless you don’t wanna front anymore.”

Purity turned back around to place the bomb in front of the entrance to Giant Step. Before he could even walk away Clover shot it, Purity barely jumping out of the way of the blast.

“Hey watch it!” Purity snapped.

Clover retorted. “The more we kill the more I remember of that nightmare. We have to keep moving. Asgore must die. When our contract with Gaster is done I must attend to that. So quit wasting our time and let’s go. There’s more filth ahead anyways.”

“OK I don’t like this,” Richard interjected. “What it’s doing to them. We have to stop.”

“No,” Purity sneered. “They’re perfect… another purifier like us to cleanse the world. Isn’t that a good thing?”

“Not like this,” Richard retorted. “This isn’t justice it’s murder.”

“It’s vengeance,” Purity retorted. “Which for us purposes is close enough.”

“Who do you keep talking to?” Clover demanded. “We don’t have time for you to start losing it.”

“Mind your damn business Clover,” Purity snapped back.

Clover shrugged, “Fine. Let’s go already.”

The duo continued through the cave, the animals slaughtered with ease as they passed by before reaching Mondo Mole.

“Let us by,” Purity demanded.

“I’m afraid I cannot let anyone enter this Your Sanctuary location.” Mondo Mole explained. “I am to prevent Ness from entering, and cannot risk anyone else entering in the meantime.”

“Who’s Ness?” Clover demanded.

“The child who is to-“ Mondo Mole began to explain.

“OK so you’re planning to jump a kid got it,” Purity replied.

Clover fired off a round on the spot, initiating combat with Mondo Mole.

“I see you have made your intentions clear,” Mondo Mole declared. “Very well then. I am the guardian of this Your Sanctuary location. Take it from me, if you dare.”

Mondo Mole truly gave all it could in combat, but its talons merely seemed to bounce off Richard’s skin. Its fangs felt like they would shatter against Clover’s jacket. There was nothing it could do as it keeled over, dead.

“We’re done,” Purity growled. “We’re going.”

“Good riddance to this place,” Clover added. “Let’s go already.”

The two approached the door. Richard commented. “Let’s go before there’s more trouble.”

Purity nodded and approached the door only for there to be a great flash of light followed by Ness and Paula revealing themselves.

Combat initiated.

“Wait!” Richard screamed.

Combat stopped.

“We’re not doing this!” Richard screamed at Purity. “Don’t hurt kids is the whole FUCKING POINT!”

“Yeah for once we’re in agreeance,” Purity conceded. “We aren’t fighting you. Let us pass.”

“You slaughtered half a town!” Ness screamed.

“They kidnapped Paula!” Clover retorted.

“That doesn’t excuse mass murder!” Paula demanded. “You two have to face justice for what you’ve done. Did Giygas make you do this? Maybe we can work something out if it wasn’t your fault?”

“No this was us,” Purity shrugged. “Any who harm a child are impure and the world must be purified.”

Clover growled, whispering. “You just threw away our out you fucking idiot! Just… follow my lead. I’ll handle this myself if you won’t. I think I can salvage this.” Clover turned to the two and smiled, “Oh yes Giygas that horrible thing. Messed with our heads. You know how it is. No need to worry, we were just leaving.”

“To where?” Ness demanded.

“Another world where we won’t be of your concern,” Purity assured.

“But you’ll keep “purifying” we can’t allow that,” Paula retorted. “People have died, because of you two.”

“Because of me?” Purity laughed. “OK. Ha. That’s how it is? Fine. Yknow what, fuck it. I’ve fought in self defense against a kid with a bat before. What’s one more time? We’re going. Move. Now.”

Ness lifted his bat.

Richard glared, “I fucking hate you.”

“You can’t,” Purity sneered. “I’m you.”

Combat initiated.

*For Riley.

The duo’s telekinetic abilities, while dangerous, were evenly matched by Purity’s brutality and experience. Ness swung his bat at Clover’s head, but the cowboy ducked out of the way. This allowed Paula to shoot fire at them, but it merely singed their jacket as he fell prone to go under the flames.

Ness pulled his bat back over his shoulder and raised his hands to strike with PSI, but he was caught off guard, his focus broken by Purity letting out a scream before attacking.

Purity BRUTALIZED.

Ness felt his ribs crack, and coughed up blood. He fell to his knees, gasping for air. He begged, “Paula… run…”

Ness fell over.

“Ness!” Paula cried.

*Paula used a Horn of Life!

*…

*But nothing happened.

“We. Are. Leaving!” Clover yelled. “Step aside or you’re next!”

Paula started crying and lifted her pan. She wasn’t backing down.

*For Riley.

Paula slammed her pan into Purity’s chest, causing him to cough up blood as he was sent flying back. She lifted her hand, shooting fire with her pyrokinetic abilities at Clover. Clover guarded their face but their arms were caught in the blaze. Clover cried out in pain as she began to roll on the ground to put the fire out. This whoever left him open to Paula who lunged, death in her eyes. She slammed her pan down on their head, only for Purity to catch it mid swing and push her away, creating distance between the two.

*Kinda reminds you of fighting (“” indicate written in Wingdings here) “Ms. West”.

Purity ignored his wounded allied and lunged, going right for the kill. Paula blocked his first punch with her pan, using it as a shield, but this left her stomach open for a second and…

Purity BRUTALIZED.

A clean blow through the chest left Paula coughing up blood and staggering back. She growled, “No… I can’t let you…”

Paula weakly swung her pan, which Purity easily evaded. Her swings were slow, labored, and easily evaded. The sidesteps to do so laid back.

Purity grabbed her by the throat and growled. “I shall hold her in my arms again, even if the road to Riley is paved by your corpses.”

There was a loud snap as Purity crushed Paula’s neck in his hand, and she fell over dead.

*Your LOVE increased.

“Ow…” Clover groaned. “That hurt.”

“Let’s go,” Puirty growled.

“Alright alright,” Clover sighed. “Not the first pyrokinetic gal to put up a fight I’ve dealt with. I’ll be fine.”

Clover struggled to his feet and the two approached the door. Richard sighed, “If we don’t see Riley again after this…”

“We had a deal,” Purity snarled. “If you wanna see her again, keep your fucking mouth shut and fall in line.”

Richard fell silent and disappeared into the door. Purity demanded to Clover, “Come on. We have a deal to finish. Worlds to purify.”

“Couldn’t agree more partner,” Clover sneered…

The two jumped through into the next world. Snowdin greeted them the air full of dust. Purity sneered with a devilish grin, “Ah! Right back where we wanna be! Come on! We have a regicide to commit!”

“Wait,” Clover demanded examining the ground. “This isn’t… this is different. There’s… dust.”

“What do you mean?” Purity demanded.

“This isn’t the same Snowdin,” Clover replied. “I know Snowdin. This isn’t it.”

“So what a different world?” Purity demanded.

“Maybe,” Clover shrugged. He pulled out his gun, “But all this dust implies a lot needs to be “purified” around here.”

“Then let’s get to work,” Purity sneered.

The two found the same note as before. Purity merely shrugged, “Impure’s an impure. We have work to do.”

“Yeah sounds like we do,” Clover added.

The two continued on until meeting Papyrus who greeted them, “Ah hello! I am-“

“Do you answer to Asgore?” Purity demanded.

“Yes as a member of the Royal Guard I-“ Papyrus began to explain.

“Does he kill children, yes or no?” Clover added.

“Well I-“ Papyrus began to nervously back away. “If a HUMAN child fell then-“

“Impure! Get him!” Purity screamed before lunging.

He lunged for Papyrus only to be jumped from the side by Sans. Clover fired a round at the shorter skeleton who evaded it and went right for Purity. Grabbing him and-

END OF SECTION 2

Chapter Text

Aborting Upon Entering Town.

Richard and Clover SPARED the cultist.

Purity growled marching forward. “No we are NOT letting him off the hook that easy!”

“No this has gone on enough,” Richard retorted. “I’m fronting again. You’re done.”

“Make me!” Purity screamed as he lunged for the cultist.

Clover fired a round into the Richard’s arm. “That’s ENOUGH! Animals I get but PEOPLE?”

Richard began to front again, “They were IMPURE what choice did we have? Besides he’s not dead!”

“We don’t kill people! That crosses the line partner!” Clover retorted.

“People are the most dangerous!” Purity snapped back.

“People are the most dangerous!” Richard parroted.

“That doesn’t mean we can kill people!” Clover retorted.

“Oh but they can?” Richard demanded. “They killed my sister! SHE DIED! IN MY ARMS!”

From here it goes back to the neutral/pacifist route.

Aborting At Mr. Carpainter

Players cannot spare cultists during the “town slaughter” section. Enemies will refuse MERCY if offered. Mr. Carpainter is spared via the same methods as on other routes during his battle.

Purity lowered his fists and growled, “Now. No one else has to die here. You’re going to tell us where the gray door is, and we are going to leave. You will return Paula to her family you stole her from. Do I make myself clear?”

“If that is what it takes to prevent further bloodshed,” Carpainter conceded. “However, you must leave immediately. This bomb will open the way to Giant Step for you where the door you seek resides. Never return to this place.”

Mr. Carpainter handed Purity the bomb and left. Richard stepped up to Purity and seemed to walk back into his own body. “You are NOT fronting again.”

“What’s that?” Clover inquired.

“Let’s go,” Richard growled.

“For the best,” Clover conceded. “No detours. Let’s just leave.”

Whenever Richard attempted to go anywhere but their destination at Giant’s Step Clover would interject. “We gotta go dude. Now. Before we do any more harm.”

Thus the two proceeded to Mondo Mole.

Aborting at Mondo Mole/Post Mondo Mole Without Paula

Mondo Mole was intimidated into submission, conceding, “I know I stand no chance against you and your slaughter. I will let you pass. Leave. Do not return to this world. It is a shame. You would have been perfect for Giygas.”

Richard sighed and sat down, leaning against the cave wall.

“You OK?” Clover inquired.

“We should have killed it,” Purity growled.

“Shut the fuck up!” Richard screamed at Purity, swinging at the hallucination but only shattering the cave wall with his fist.

“Woah man!” Clover screamed. “What are you doing?”

Richard sighed and shook his head. “I… I dunno man. I see shit sometimes. OK? Can we just go?”

“It’s OK man,” Clover assured. “Just… don’t listen to what they tell you. Maybe we should get you to a doctor? You don’t seem… well.”

“I can’t go to a doctor,” Richard sighed. “If they’re called and I have to go back to them-“

Richard cut himself off and shook his head. “Let’s just go, man.”

“OK,” Clover sighed. “But partner, I’m worried about you. OK? I’m not dropping this forever.”

“Fine,” Richard sighed. “Let’s go already.”

The duo proceeded to the Your Sanctuary location.

Richard paid it no mind and moved onward. Clover stopped him. “You don’t hear the music?”

Richard shook his head. “Should I hear music?”

“Just…” Clover pleaded. “Listen for a second partner.”

Richard took a deep breath and listened, closing his eyes.

Then he heard the tune.

*You recalled a memory of George talking to you. He was holding a pizza. He looked mortified. He looked into your eyes with a mix of deep compassion and fear. Not afraid of you. But FOR you.

*…he figured out who killed Riley.

*…you miss him. Him and Lily.

Richard began to cry. “I miss Lily and George man…”

“I miss Marlet,” Clover sighed hiding their face under their hat as tears leaked from their eyes. “But… we’ll get home. Together.”

“Right,” Richard dried their tears. “You and me partner… we got each other…”

The two proceeded before being jumped by Porky. Porky mocked. “Oh! You two again! Where’s little Paula? Did you not rescue her? For shame Richy boy. For shame. I thought your whole thing was not killing and “purifying”. Was that all a lie?”

Richard growled, “We don’t have time for this. We have to leave.”

“Then let’s take him out quick,” Clover added.

Combat initiated…

Sparing Porky On Aborted Geno/Without Paula

Ness had stepped in to handle Porky before Richard could snap. His head was hung low and he gripped his bat tight. He growled to Richard. “Leave. Do not return. This will be the only chance I’ll give you.”

“OK,” Richard replied. “We get it.”

“Let’s go,” Clover added, the two leaving.

Ness sighed and dropped his bat, sitting alone on the ground. “…why? Why did they do this? They’re just kids… like me. So why?… Maybe Giygas?”

Ness stood back up and turned away. “I’m sorry for whatever you two went through to make you this way…”

With that he left…

Killing Porky On Aborted Geno/Without Paula

Porky’s mech was blasted to kingdom come, leaving only a smoldering crater. Richard screamed and slammed his fist into the ground. “I hate this! I hate this! I just wanna see Lily again!”

Clover lowered their gun crying. They let out a scream and threw it to the ground before falling to their knees. “Aggggh! I can’t do this anymore dude!”

“Is this even worth it?” Richard groaned. “Maybe… go on without me? I can back out of the deal and at least live I-“

“No!” Clover exclaimed. “What about Riley partner?”

Purity interjected, “They’re right. What matters is bringing her back. You gonna fail to protect her twice?”

Richard groaned, “Yeah… yeah… besides we don’t know what happens to you if we don’t keep your deal with Gaster. I’m not… we have to get you home.”

“Are you sure you’re OK?” Clover inquired.

Richard shook his head. “No. Are you?”

“No…” Clover conceded. “But we got each other partner.”

Richard nodded and opened the door, “Let’s go…”

Aborting by Sparing Ness

Richard and Clover stood face to face with Ness and Paula.

Richard tried R-action!

*You try to justify yourself to Ness.

“They kidnapped Paula!” Richard exclaimed. “What were we supposed to do let them go?”

“There’s a fine line between “stopping them” and what you did!” Ness snapped back. He swung his bat full force at Richard who narrowly evaded the attack.

*Maybe Clover has something to say?

Richard guarded as Clover tried C-action.

Clover ducked under Paula’s pyrokinesis as they pleaded. “They attacked us! If nothing else we had to defend ourselves! If anything we did you a favor! Mondo Mole was gonna hurt Ness! You guys would have had to kill him if we didn’t!”

*Paula is evading eye contact. She appears to be thinking. Maybe Clover should keep talking?

Richard distracted Ness, sticking his tongue out at the boy causing him to charge in a blind rage, blasting Richard with PK Rockin’. Richard shrugged off the blow with PROTECT as Clover used C-Action.

“Please Paula,” Clover begged. “We don’t want to hurt you. Either of you.”

“You killed several people!” Paula screamed back. “One of them wasn’t even a cultist!”

*Paula doesn't seem ready to listen. Maybe Richard should speak?

Clover shielded themself with his arms from a harsh swing of Paula’s pan. Richard spoke to Ness with R-action. Pleading, “Ness. Please. You understand don’t you? That woman attacked me! She snuck up on me! Clover protected me! You would do the same for your friends!”

*Ness is evading eye contact. Hey… his bat… Richard has something to say.

Ness swung at Richard who caught his bat, examining it closely with R-action. “Hey… this looks beat up. I knew a guy with a bat like this. He kicked my ass. You’re attacking people too!”

“I’m not committing mass murder!” Ness screamed, leaping back.

*Richard can see it in his eyes. Maybe Ness understands better than he thought. Let him speak.

Richard raised his hands. “I can see it. In your eyes. You know how it feels, don’t you?”

“I…” Ness looked away. “Shut up!”

Richard slowly approached. “It was George for me. Dude’s a brother to me. His uncle… wasn’t a good man. Beat him. Extorted beer money from him. I attacked his uncle. Ness. You knew someone. I can tell. You wished you could stop his parents don’t you? Like I did? The way you hold that bat, the way you look at me with a mix of disgust and envy. He was close to you. Wasn’t he? You blame yourself for how he turned out. Think maybe if you had attacked his parents then… but it wasn’t your fault. You’re just a kid. I understand. Whoever he was… it wasn’t your fault.”

Richard lowered his bat and began to cry, “Pokey’s dad he… why didn’t I do anything?”

“Ness?” Paula asked. “Are you OK?”

*Ness is sparing you.

Richard and Clover SPARED the enemy.

Ness growled, “Get out. Now. We’re leaving.”

“Ness isn’t Pokey that kid who helped kidnap-“ Paula inquired, worried.

“We’re GOING Paula.” Ness demanded with an uncharacteristic anger.

“It’s not your fault,” Richard assured.

“Just leave,” Ness growled walking away with Paula.

Purity stood by the gray door and growled. “You lied to Ness. He could have not been a coward and done something.”

“Quiet you,” Richard growled. “You’re the one lying.”

Clover inquired to Richard, “Are you OK? You seem… different.”

“Why do you ask?” Richard inquired.

“I dunno I just,” Clover gave a relieved smile, “I think like you better this way.”

Richard smiled as he opened the door, “Y'know kid? Me too…”

The two jumped through the door…

Chapter Text

Anime OP Sections 3: The Road Through Hell

(Open on a shot of Clover, Richard, and Underfell Marlet standing in Snowdin, looking onward, the wind blowing past them. This is followed by a sweeping shot of the monsters encountered in Section Three. Oddly, Papyrus faces away from the camera, only one eye visible, glaring with an orange glow. Sans meanwhile sneers, facing the trio with an arrogant grin.)

They say the road to Hell is paved with good intentions.
But what is about a road clear through such a hellish place?
Dangerous foes await us.
But we must march on all the same!

Justice awaits at the end of the road!
So we have to march on!
We will march this road through Hell.
No matter what awaits!

(The trio begin to march forward, Richard in front. The background and party do a cross fade, into the section two trio of Clover, Richard, and Paula followed by Flowey in Richard in their respective areas. This look back through time ends with Richard and Purity alone, an ogre of a man looming over them at the edge of a river.)

It is not as though we march alone!
Friends not here have our backs!
And those present with us,
We stand as brothers!

For justice I will march through Hell!
It is not as though,
I have not marched such a road before!
It is on this same road I nearly fell!

(The trio are seen fighting their way through Section 3, Richard charging down Sans with reckless abandonment. The final shot being Richard and Sans clashing full force before an explosion transitions into a fade to white into a fade in of a logo.)

So march on and on!
No matter how much pain we are in we march on!
Purify any who defy us!
Justice will prevail!

You and me will find Justice!
The wicked will face our judgment!
Skeleton, king, or man it matters not!
We will march through Hell to purify if we must!

Chapter Text

Combat initiated instantly. Richard struck at Sans who evaded the attack. Sans smiled at him, “Finally. A real challenge. I-“

Richard attacked again, this time just barely catching Sans for 1 damage. Sans appeared uneasy. “Hey easy kid! Bit quick aren’t we? This hardly feels fair given-“

“You won’t take Clover away from me!” Richard screamed, striking at Sans again. This time Sans evaded and retaliated with his own attack. Bones flew at Richard who ducked under them before leaping over some that burst from the dusty snow.

“Enough!” Papyrus screamed. “Both of you! Sans! This isn’t how we apprehend humans! You don’t even know they are humans!”

Papyrus stood between them, arms outstretched to keep them apart.

Sans gave an annoyed “tch” sound and turned away. “Fine. But they are humans Papyrus. Don’t get in my way again.”

Purity entered and pat Richard on the back. “Hey, dude. Don’t let him get away. He’s an impure. He’s gonna hurt Clover.”

“You’re not going anywhere,” Richard growled.

“What?” Sans demanded.

Richard charged again.

Combat initiated.

“I knew you had that spark in you,” Sans grinned wide. “Fine then!”

“Clover!” Richard called.

Clover fired off a round which Sans sidestepped with a smug shrug. “Sorry kid but bullets are to slow for me.”

Sans began to attack, summoning orange and blue Gaster Blasters that the duo stopped and started moving through, weaving through the beams of orange and blue with grace and speed. Richard was quick to close the distance, emerging from an orange beam and leaping for Sans’s throat, like a rabid dog going for the neck.

“I said STOP!” Papyrus screamed slamming Richard away and breaking up the fight. “Did you say Clover?”

“Enough of this,” Sans growled his eyes dark. “Come at me when you grow enough of a pair to finish the fight.”

Sans disappeared by walking out of sight into one of his “shortcuts”. This left only Richard, Clover, and Papyrus.

“He got away,” Richard growled.

“Why do you ask?” Clover demanded, pistol at the ready? “We ain’t looking for trouble but we ain’t gonna lay down and die.”

“Hold on there was a report “ Papyrus replied returning to his guard station. “Let’s see here…”

Clover whispered to Richard. “Let’s go. Quickly. He’s distracted.”

“This isn’t over between us and that short one,” Richard growled before the two dashed forward.

“Aha!” Papyrus exclaimed, not turning around as he spoke. “Marlet’s resignation letter! After turning in the soul of the human Clover Marlet resigned from the Royal Guard and-“

Papyrus turned around to see the two gone. “Oh drats… hmmm… Marlet’s report… she didn’t lie she had a soul… I should make a phone call.”

Papyrus pulled out a phone and inquired, “Hello? Is this Marlet? Ex royal guard? There is a contradiction in your report and resignation letter. Clover is alive and well and- Where? Oh here in Snowdin he and some other… I guess they were humans- No I haven’t hurt them. Where in Snowdin? Oh the main road through the forest. Anyways I- Hello? Hello? Marlet?” Papyrus lowered the phone confused. “Why she hang up on me? Oh well, best look for Sans. I hope he’s alright.”

Richard and Clover stopped to talk in the other room. Clover demanded, “OK so, what’s the plan? This is not the same Snowdin.”

“Yeah Sans looked…” Richard explained. “Different.”

“Or he was always impure,” Purity suggested. “Just saying.”

“Are we sure there can even be more than one of a person?” Richard inquired.

“We’re jumping from world to world,” Clover replied. “I don’t see why not. Alternate worlds alternate people. I know this isn’t the same Snowdin I mean… just look at it dude. The Snowdin I knew was peaceful and kind and-“

There was a roar and from the entrance to the room Snowy charged, roaring. Richard stepped between Clover and Snowy and roared. Snowy squaked. “Christ OK screw that!” He then fled.

“Now this feels like home,” Purity commented. “Evil law enforcement in the Royal Guard. People abusing, attacking, and killing kids. This is just like home!… I didn’t miss it did you?”

Richard froze on the spot, shaking like a leaf. He heard a baby crying from far away. “Riley?” He asked.

“Richard?” Clover demanded.

“Where’s Riley?” Richard began to hyperventilate. “Where’s my sister? Riley! Riley I’m here!”

“Richard stay with me!” Clover demanded. “Snap out of it!”

“Yeah Richard snap out of it you useless broken fuck,” Purity growled. “You know something? Maybe Clover is better off without us. Maybe everyone is. I mean Lily lied to us, and what do we go home too? Death? When we get back we’re just gonna be killed anyways.”

“What are you saying?” Richard demanded.

“Use your imagination,” Purity sighed sadly. “There’s more than one way to see Riley again.”

The crying stopped and Richard shook his head. “I’m fine. I’m fine. Let’s go.”

“Yeah don’t burden him any further,” Purity growled. “Riley is dead cause of you you worthless waste of flesh. Besides this journey is Hell. Maybe we’re already dead and in Hell. Would be what we deserve.”

Richard ignored Purity and merely carried on before being stopped by a dog standing guard. “Who’s there?” It demanded.

“We’re just passing by,” Richard tried to defuse the situation.

“Names?” The guard demanded.

“Richard West,” Richard replied.

“Clover,” Clover added.

“Clover huh?” The guard turned around. The flipping of pages could be heard. “Clover… that name was in a report from Marlet… are you…”

The dog suddenly turned back and screamed, “A human!”

Combat initiated.

*Doggo blocks the way!

Richard tried R-action!

Clover tried C-action!

Richard reached out to pet Doggo, but Doggo snapped and snarled. “Don’t touch me!”

Clover tried to explain. “Wait what does that report say happened to Clover?”

“What does that got to do with anything?”

+25% spare!

Doggo swung wildly, with blades of both orange and blue. Richard tried to move through a blue blade, creating a shallow but noticeable cut on his chest. He winced in pain but carried on.

Richard guarded, allowing Clover speak. Clover used C-action and requested, “Could you please read it again? Closely?”

Doggo screamed, “Fine! If it’ll shut you up human!” He fell silent for a moment as flipping pages were heard. “Ah… I see. You must be a different Clover. My mistake, but I can’t let you pass without any proper paperwork or the like! How do I know you’re not some other human?”

+25% spare!

Another attack of blue and orange, a dual blades overhead swing was aimed at Clover with two orange blades. Richard shoved Clover out of the way, the blades harmlessly passing through him as he kept diving forward into the snow which broke his fall.

Richard tried R-action as Clover, seeing Richard’s plan, attempted to SPARE the enemy.

*Richard pet doggo!

Doggo conceded, “Well… even if you smell like humans… maybe you’re one of the good ones. Go on ahead, but watch out for the others.”

+50% spare!

Clover SPARED the enemy!

The battle concluded, Doggo elaborating. “I’m gonna get some shut eye. Leave. Quickly. The others will not be so welcoming. Especially those skeletons.”

“Yeah that pint-sized fuck-“ Richard growled.

“Oh it’s not the short one you should worry about,” Doggo warned before hiding back in his booth.

“You good?” Clover asked.

“You good?” Richard evaded answering. “How did you know the report said you were dead?”

“Papyrus mentioned my name being in a report or something,” Clover replied. “If this is another world, I assume this world’s Clover also… you know…”

“Yeah,” Richard sighed.

“Betcha that Clover gets to see Riley,” Purity interjected.

“Didn’t you know a Marlet?” Richard asked. “Sounds like this world has a Marlet too.”

“Maybe,” Clover shrugged. “But this world is… I don’t know if that Marlet and this world’s Clover were friends or if that Marlet… was the one to kill them. We can’t risk that.”

Richard nodded in agreement. “Eh all pigs suck anyways. Don’t trust any of them. Let’s just go.”

The duo carried on before running into Sans. Sans greeted Richard when he spoke to the skeleton. “Hey kid. How you holding up?”

“Did you see that other you?” Richard demanded.

“Always so serious aren’t we,” Sans joked. “A Freaky Friday situation? Or do you mean that skeleton who attacked you? That isn’t me kid. I got a bone to pick with that jerk if anything. Attacking my friends while wearing my face.”

“I’m pretty sure you can buy a mask of your face at any Halloween store,” Richard replied.

“Ah yeah I am “Sans Undertale” in most worlds huh?” Sans joked. “How much are those masks.”

“Like twelve bucks?” Richard shrugged. “But they’re like knock offs. I don’t think they make official masks.”

Sans’s eyes went black. “Toby Fox why can’t I be a real Halloween costume?”

“Who?” Clover asked.

“You two wouldn't know him,” Sans laughed. “Anyways, no that’s another Sans. Not me. Multiverse stuff. I’ve had… my fair share of other Sanses I’ve heard about. A lot. Like… why is all Sans?”

Sans starred off into the middle distance for a few seconds before adding, “Anyways let me know if you wanna buy anything.”

Richard browsed the shop, finding Coffee Bean Ammo for sale along with the the usual affairs Sans had offered Kris and co, the Iceslash weapon being replaced by the bullets.

Richard decided to talk to Sans further before making any purchases.

Richard selected, “About Yourself”?

“I’m Sans Undertale,” Sans joked at his own expense. “Funny meme skeleton man in your world right? Did you play Undertale?”

“No Lily likes fighting games but I always lose to her,” Richard replied. “I like RPGs and puzzle games. I know you from a couple memes and that’s it.”

“What are you two talking about?” Clover demanded.

“Don’t worry about it,” Sans replied. “Multiverse stuff. I betcha you’re seen as media in some worlds Richard.”

“Like what?” Richard inquired.

Sans shrugged, “I dunno a book or something. Wouldn’t it be funny if someone made a mod but didn’t release your book yet? Who would do that?”

“Could promote the book?” Clover suggested.

“Yeah but wouldn’t it have spoilers?” Richard asked.

“Maybe could be done for fun,” Sans shrugged.

Richard selected, “More Sanses?”

“Yeah there’s more of me,” Sans replied. “It… it gets weird if you go down the rabbit hole. Some of them took go fuck your self a little… too literally.”

“Are you good?” Richard asked.

Sans’s eyes went dark. “I want to drop this subject.”

Richard selected, “Other allies?”

“Yeah you could use the extra help,” Sans nodded. “I’m sure there’s some temporary help you can find around here but… multiverse hoppers tend to work best as a trio? You’re a duo. You should find another permanent ally. Some temporary allies can’t change equipment but they should strong enough as is. That flower for example-“

“Did you know Flowey?” Clover interjected.

“Yeah he’s a jerk!” Richard replied.

“Yeah just… maybe your next ally lies in a world less… harsh than this one,” Sans steered the conversation back on track.

Richard selected, “Can you jump worlds at will?”

“It’s…” Sans hesitated. “Complicated.”

“Can you do me a favor if you end up in my world?” Richard asked.

Sans nodded. “Whatcha need?”

“Tell George, Lily, and Jonathan I’m safe,” Richard requested.

“I’ll see what I can do,” Sans replied. “Should I tell your friends you’re OK Clover?”

“If you can,” Clover replied. “But… maybe that’s something I should do myself? I don’t think anyone would be receptive to some random guy coming up like “hey the dead kid you knew is back”. It would probably come across creepy and… yeah no nevermind. I’ll do it.”

“Fair enough kid,” Sans replied.

With that Richard and Clover left. Sans stopped them as they walked away. “Hey, kid. One last thing.”

Sans tossed Richard a cell phone which he caught. Sans gave a smile, “Be sure to give Paula a ring.”

“Thanks!” Richard replied.

“You think now’s a good time?” Clover suggested.

“Let’s wait until we’re somewhere safe,” Richard replied. “Unless we keep it brief.”

*You got a Cell Phone! You can now call saved numbers!

The duo carried on, passing by an Ice Cap who was SPARED with intimidation and force. Sure ACTing still worked but it wasn’t Richard’s only option.

As they proceeded onward to see Sans and Papyrus ahead. The two were arguing. Sans growled, “The kid’s aggressive. Just let me at him! These puzzles and so on-“

“We will stick to the protocol!” Papyrus declared. “To the letter! I don’t care if he’s some baby eater! We follow protocol!”

“No wonder Marlet quit if every guard is a moron like you,” Sans growled.

“Marlet quit cause she didn’t have the heart!” Papyrus replied. “There’s nothing wrong with that!”

“She was WEAK!” Sans snarled. “And I-“

Clover fired off a round at Sans, missing intentionally as a warning.

“Ah hello humans!” Papyrus greeted. “We-“

“I will say this once,” Clover growled. “Do not insult Marlet again.”

“Oh is baby gonna cry cause some feather-brained freak couldn’t do her fucking job?” Sans mocked with malicious glee in his smile. “We killed you once down here Clover. We can do it again.”

“You went through my reports!” Papyrus declared.

“I’m a guard too,” Sans reminded.

Purity interjected, “Why the FUCK are we talking to an impure! Strike now! Clover’s ready! We’re ready! He isn’t! He’s gonna hurt Clover!”

“Let’s wait maybe-“ Richard replied.

Sans began to walk towards Clover. “I see no reason to wait after all…”

“Sans!” Papyrus screamed.

“Nevermind!” Richard cried as he charged down Sans.

Combat initiated with Richard and Sans facing each other one on one. Richard landed a heavy blow on the skeleton only for Papyrus to once again step in. “Human stop!”

Combat ceased, leaving Papyrus to declare. “Sans you ruined the puzzle! You get a free pass on this one.”

“What…” Richard asked flabbergasted. “What WAS the puzzle?”

Papyrus began to walk away, revealing an orb, “An invisible maze! Whoever holds this orb-“

He got electrocuted mid step, having now been in the middle of the maze due to intervening with Sans and Richard.

“That,” he replied.

“I see,” Richard shrugged.

“We could still… do the puzzle,” Clover suggested. “If you keep Sans off our back.”

Sans snarled, “Are you two brain dead? Why would you pass up a free pass on-“

“Excellent!” Papyrus declared. “Catch!” Papyrus rushed over and tossed Richard the orb before returning to the other side.

On his way back about halfway Sans declared, “Bro! Your boots!”

“Right!” Papyrus exclaimed removing his boots in the dead middle of the maze.

“You got this just follow his path,” Clover assured.

Richard did just that, carefully following in Papyrus’s footsteps before returning the orb.

“Excellent!” Papyrus exclaimed. “We will be off now!”

“Aren’t your feet cold?” Clover inquired.

“Very!” Papyrus replied. “Let me get my boots back!” He took the orb from Richard and as he went to get his boots got shocked once more.

Clover couldn’t help but snicker as Richard let himself smirk. “We are going now,” Papyrus repeated before leaving with Sans.

Clover sighed, “What a jerk.”

“At least they’re amusing,” Richard shrugged.

“Yeah…” Clover sighed. “Let’s just… keep going.”

The duo carried on past more monsters in the dusty snow. They found a detour in an abandoned ice cream cart. Richard found a note on it that read, “There’s no point in nice cream in such a mean world.”

“Poor guy…” Clover sighed.

*There's still some ice cream in here.

“…we aren’t taking this right? I’m not stealing from the dead.” Richard declared.

“I agree,” Clover nodded. “It’s not right.”

Purity stepped in, speaking, “Hey uhhh… Clover is gonna need our shit if we go to see Riley. I mean… he’ll be better off without us. You know?”

Richard said nothing, merely looking down sadly.

“Maybe we should write a will,” Purity suggested. “So that he knows he can have it. Just… tell him that.”

“Hey if anything happens to me,” Richard explained. “You can have my shit. You’ll need it to get home.”

“We’re partners,” Clover reminded. “Why would I proceed without you?”

Richard said nothing.

Clover inquired, “Partner are you OK?”

“Let’s just go,” Richard evaded.

The two proceeded to the next “puzzle” A tall blue bird woman was looking over an envelope. “What you make this time Papyrus?” She inquired. “Another puzzle?”

“Marlet don’t!” Papyrus screamed before she opened the envelope. She hit the deck, evading the barrage of bones that came out.

“Sans!” Papyrus yelled. “You almost hurt Marlet!”

“Why would I care for that coward?” Sans demanded.

Marley laughed it off, “It’s OK Papyrus. I can be a little bit of a bird brain. I’m OK!” She got back up dusting herself off. “You said you saw Clover though? Are you sure it was them?”

“Yes!” Papyrus declared. “The tiny cowboy!”

“Where is he?” Marlet inquired.

“Marlet!” Clover exclaimed.

Marlet turned around and her eyes went wide with shock. She knew something was… off. However she was more overwhelmed by joy and rushed to hug them. Happy tears filled her eyes as she grabbed him in a bear hug. “Clover! You’re OK!”

“A bleeding heart to this day” Sans growled. “Let’s go Paps. We gotta prepare our next “puzzle”.

“That’s the spirit Sans!” Papyrus exclaimed. “Cya later Marlet! Enjoy Clover being alive while you can! We do still need their soul!”

The duo left, Marlet hugging Clover right as Clover hugged her back. However, this Marlet seemed… off. Her clothes were more rugged, with leather armor in the form of a chest piece, and a pair of aviator goggles. Her beak appeared to have an old wound that while healed, had left a crack-like scar that could be seen on the left side.

“You look different,” Marlet commented.

“I look different?” Clover demanded. “Look at you! Since when do you wear armor?”

“I’ve always worn this,” Marlet replied. “Are you OK Clover? How are you alive?”

“I think…” Richard interjected. “This isn’t the Clover you knew.”

“What does that mean?” Marlet demanded. “They’re right there! Of course it’s them! Who even are you? Are you their friend? Brother? Clover you never said you had siblings!”

“Of course he didn’t,” Purity growled. “Family may be love not blood but why would he ever love us as a brother?”

“Brother doesn’t sound far off,” Clover replied. “Though not in the traditional sense. More like, found family.”

“Oh like the Fiesty Five,” Marlet replied. “OK. Uhhh… why do you look confused. You… it’s me. It’s you… it is… you… right?”

“Not really?” Clover shrugged. “Uhhhh… shoot. Partner? Can you explain?”

Richard nodded, “I’m Richard. We are world hoppers. This is A Clover but they’re not THE Clover you knew. You’re not THE Marlet they knew. You seem nice and all but… I’m sorry. That Clover is still dead.”

Marlet appeared deeply saddened, “Oh… but… how are you here then?”

“That’s complicated,” Clover replied. “We’re looking for a gray door to continue our journey.”

“I can lend a hand,” Marlet offered. “If you want,”

Clover nodded, “Sure! Richard and I-“

“We don’t know she’s pure,” Purity whispered. “Let me front.”

“Purity will you shut the fuck up!” Richard suddenly screamed.

“Richard?” Marlet asked. “Are you OK?”

“He’s…” Clover chose his words carefully. “He’s a bit…”

“Crazy and worthless,” Richard finished. “No wonder Lily lied to me why should she tell some schizo the truth?”

“Richard?” Clover asked. “Bro? You good? You’ve been acting… something’s wrong.”

“I’m fine,” Richard lied. “Let’s just go. OK?”

Marlet whispered, “Is he always so… standoffish?”

Clover whispered back, “Kinda? But he cares I… I think something’s wrong. He talked about if he dies earlier? Just…”

“Let’s just move for now we can confront him about it later,” Marlet replied. She then spoke up, “OK Richard! Let’s get you two home!”

*Marlet joined the party!

The trio carried on, taking a detour into the dark forests of Snowdin. The darkness swallowed everything into its maw ahead.

“You two stay behind me,” Marlet ordered. “Grab that light.”

Richard nodded and grabbed it. He inquired, “You ever been down here?”

“I don’t think this place is even accessible in my world,” Clover replied.

“For the best,” Marlet replied. “This place doesn’t feel safe. You two stay close.”

The two proceeded towards a Feraldrake. Marlet extended her wing in front of Richard and Clover. “Wait, something’s not right…”

The Feraldrake turned and roared at the trio. “Stay behind me!” Marlet demanded.

This was the group’s first chance to see Marlet’s skill.

Observe: Look at the enemy and spot weak points. Increases party attack a little and negates enemy dodging. 32% TP.

Protective Wings: Use your wings to stave off attacks. Increases everyone’s defense for 3 turns. 50% TP.

M-Action was also available. After sparing the Feraldrake it asked. “Where am I? Who are you?”

“I’m Marlet ex royal guard,” Marlet explained. “You were in a blind rage. You should get out of here. It’s not safe.”

“My friends…” the drake pleaded. “They’re lost too. Can you find them?”

“Of course!” Marlet smiled. “We’ll keep an eye out for them! We-“

Purity interjected. “Wasting time on threats to Clover? Hell no.”

“We aren’t wasting time on people who tried to kill two innocent children!” Richard snapped suddenly.

“Richard stop it!” Clover screamed.

“Excuse our friend here,” Marlet pleaded. “He’s not… all there.”

“I’m all there enough to know the impure are a waste of our fucking time!” Richard screamed. “They could have hurt Clover! They won’t take them away from me!”

“Richard?” Clover asked as Richard began to hyperventilate.

“They’re gonna take my little sibling away from me! They’re gonna take Clover away like Riley!” Richard began to cry. “They’re gonna take you away from me!”

“Is that what this is about?” Clover demanded. “Richard! I’m right here! OK? I’m safe. Whoever killed Riley… that wasn’t your fault.”

“Richard…” Marlet tried to reassure him. “No one’s gonna hurt Clover. I know you care about them you’ll protect them. I’ll protect them. We-“

“I tried to protect her!” Richard screamed. “My mom beat me into the fucking floor!”

Richard suddenly froze.

“Richard?” Clover asked.

*Something in you breaks. You try to speak but the words won’t come out.

*Richard is afflicted with Nonverbal.

“Richard?” Clover asked. “Just… can you speak?”

“I don’t think he can,” Marlet replied. “Sometimes people with… issues can hit a point where they go nonverbal due to trauma and stress. Richard? If that’s what’s happening just… nod or something. Give us some sign you’re OK.”

Richard nodded.

Marlet spotted and picked up the broken piece of a ladder and held onto it, stating. “Well that’s not promising for our exit. Stick close.”

“We will,” Clover assured.

The trio carried on through the forest, Richard unable to use R-action in his current state. This left only Clover and Marlet to talk down the drakes unless they wanted to beat them into submission.

They found many pieces of the broken ladder, however Clover suggested not grabbing them. “Let’s not mess with anything we don’t want to draw attention to ourselves.”

So they staggered around before stumbling across a cabin deep in the woods. Clover knocked on the door. “Hello?”

“Who’s there?” A voice on the inside demanded. “You better not be here to terrorize us again you bonehead!”

“You mean Sans?” Marlet inquired. “Yeah he’s kinda lost it huh? He’s attacked us.”

“Multiple times,” Clover added.

“Well,” the voice replied. “Guess the enemy do my enemy is my friend. Why don’t y’all come on in. It’s dangerous out there. But… I heard three sets of footsteps who’s the third?”

“Richard,” Clover replied. “He’s not a killer but he’s… not doing well mentally. Actually Richard when was the last time you slept?”

Richard shook his head.

*You don’t remember. You suddenly realize how tired you are. You miss Lily. You miss George. Your stomach hurts you have to…”

Richard suddenly vomited.

“Woah easy Richard easy!” Marlet tried to reassure him. “We’re gonna get inside. Then you can rest for a bit. OK?”

Richard nodded.

“Just put that torch away and come on in,” the voice replied. “I’m not leaving some mentally ill kid out in the cold.

Marlet put the torch into a scone by the door and knocked again.

“Come on in!” The speaker offered.

The trio entered, greeted by some rabbit monsters. One stared directly at Marlet. The purple rabbit glared. “Get out.”

“What?” Clover asked.

“The Royal Guard. Leave.” The rabbit demanded.

“I quit being a Royal Guard a while ago,” Marlet assured. “I promise I’m not one of them.”

“I said leave,” the rabbit snarled. “You killed an innocent child.

“I didn’t kill Clo-“ Marlet began to explain.

Richard charged suddenly.

Combat initiated.

“Richard stop it!” Clover demanded, stepping between the two. “It’s not what you all think! I can explain! Come on… bro?”

Richard backed down and leaned against the wall. Waiting. Purity whispered to him, coming down from upstairs. “What are we waiting for? I don’t care if we consider Clover family. She’s an impure! She killed a Clover!”

“I didn’t kill Clover,” Marlet sighed. “They gave up their soul willingly. I realized I couldn't kill a kid so… I resigned.”

The rabbit sighed, “Fine as long as you’re not with those skeletons.”

“What’s up with them?” Clover demanded.

“They just…” the rabbit explained. “Snapped one day. Went on a killing spree. Only the short one seemed to enjoy it though but the tall one…” She trailed off. “Someone the lack of joy in his eyes was worse. Like he felt he had to…”

“Well we’re looking for gray doors have you seen any?” Clover inquired.

“Yeah but the ladder out to where it is is broken,” the rabbit explained. “We don’t know where the pieces are.”

“Like this?” Marlet asked, revealing one. “We can find the others but… the kids really need to rest. Is there any place they can sleep? Richard especially is exhausted.”

“That would be great,” the rabbit replied. “I’m Q.B. by the way. I own a shop in Snowdin. If you could fix that ladder we could get back to town and I’ll show you where we saw that door.”

“Sounds good,” Clover replied. “We gotta keep moving we…” Clover yawned. “We… aaaauuuwaay.”

“There’s two beds upstairs,” Q.B. replied. “You can sleep as long as you need.”

“Thanks,” Clover replied. They headed up the stairs.

Richard followed behind slowly. They stopped to glare at Marlet who explained. “I promise. I’m not going to hurt either of you. OK?”

Richard starred at Q.B. who asked, “Is he… all there?”

“He’s…” Marlet explained. “Not really? But he’s a good kid. He just can’t seem to speak right now.”

Richard headed upstairs where Clover was going to bed in the room on the right. Richard entered the left room and crawled into bed.

He laid there, his eyes wide open. He didn’t notice as Clover left their room and went back downstairs.

*You can’t sleep.

Richard heard a baby crying.

*You miss Lily.

Richard started crying, unable to sleep…

Downstairs Clover whispered to Marlet, “Can we talk?”

“What’s wrong?” Marlet asked.

Clover looked around, “It’s… a little perosnal.”

“I mean you’re not even this world’s Clover,” Q.B. explained. “Marlet explained everything. At least what she knows. You’re not gonna see us again and we won’t judge.”

Clover took a deep breath. “OK…” They tensed up, “I… I think Richard is planning on hurting himself.”

The air became tense and heavy. “Oh…” Marlet replied. “So it wasn’t just me worried…”

“At the Nice Cream cart,” Clover explained. “He started telling me to take his stuff if he died and I’m scared…” Clover started crying. “He’s family to me. I know I haven’t known him super long but he’s like a big brother. I don’t… I don’t want to lose him…”

Marlet hugged Clover. “It’s OK. You go back to sleep. I’ll talk to him, OK?”

Clover nodded and went back upstairs. Q.B. inquired, “Do you even know why Richard may wanna hurt himself? Or anything about him?”

“Not really,” Marlet replied.

“The kid tried to attack you,” Q.B. added. “You sure you talking to him is a good idea?”

“He probably thought I was gonna hurt Clover can you blame him?” Marlet retorted. “Clover is clearly important to him.”

“I’ll go check on him.” Marlet assured. Marlet left to go upstairs. Clover had gone back to sleep allowing for Marlet to speak to Richard alone. She knocked on the door. “Richard? You up?”

Richard tried to reply but no words left his lips. The silence was all that left his maw.

Marlet entered slowly, “I’m coming in.” She sat on the edge of Richard’s bed. “You OK? You seem like you’re having trouble sleeping.”

Richard turned away. Marlet inquired, “So… your mom hurt you?”

“They both did,” Richard growled. “Impure filth. They’ll be cleansed like the rest.”

“Cleansed?” Marlet inquired.

“Any who harm a child are impure,” Richard snarled. “And the world must be purified.”

“Don’t you think that’s a bit extreme?” Marlet inquired.

“I think you all aren’t extreme enough,” Richard growled. Purity crawled out from under the bed and whispered to him. Richard parroting the alter’s words. “You don’t get to lecture me. You don’t know what the impure are capable of.”

“Richard what about you?” Marlet demanded. “What happens tk you as you “purify” the world? What if you get hurt or killed? Look… imagine evil as a big tree. OK?”

Richard nodded.

“OK so you’re chopping at this tree,” Marlet continued. “But you tire yourself. Your ax dulls. You need to sharpen your ax. You need to rest. You need to take better care of yourself. You’ll accomplish more good by doing less. Sharpen the saw. Even if you have to justify it to yourself as just being more efficient… you can’t just fuel yourself with hatred forever. You must have people back home. People to go back to.”

“And I have to protect them,” Richard replied. “I-“

“Then who protects YOU?” Marlet demanded. “You… Clover is worried about you. Says you’re their family, their brother. I know you care about them. Like a little sibling.”

“Of course,” Richard replied. “I love Clover like a little sibling why wouldn’t I?”

Marlet demanded. “If you wanna care for them, you have to care for YOU. You need to understand your own value.”

Purity suddenly began to front. “And why would he have any value Marlet? That night… where Riley died. An infant sister dead in my arms. He wasn’t strong enough to protect her. That night the mother beat us into the floor.”

“Woah wait what happened?” Marlet demanded.

Purity sighed, “I don’t want Clover overhearing this lean in close.”

*Purity whispered something horrific.

Marlet’s eyes went wide with horror and disgust.

“Your own mother?” Marlet demanded.

Purity nodded.

Marlet sighed, “Look. That doesn’t change anything I said. That wasn’t your fault. Don’t you have other people you love? Other siblings maybe? A partner?”

“Lily is my cuddle buddy does that count?” Richard asked as he began to front again.

Purity scoffed. “I can’t believe you’re buying this drivel. More with less? Any less and they’ll take Clover away from us! I’m leaving.” Purity disappeared back under the bed.

“OK yeah sure,” Marlet nodded. “Anyone else?”

“My brother George and Jonathan was kinda like a dad. He was Lily’s butler.” Richard elaborated. “Honestly was the only pure adult I knew. Every other adult I knew was impure.”

“What about Lily’s parents?” Marlet inquired.

“I know what I said,” Richard glared.

“OK look the point is this,” Marlet elaborated. “You love those people, yeah? You’re not only hurting your enemy less but you’re hurting your allies by overdoing it and hating yourself. Even if it’s just a temporary solution just a stepping stone. Pleasure. Treat yourself as valuable for them.”

Richard broke down crying. “I miss my cuddle buddy… she had the sweetest voice. She liked fighting games. She always beats me at them. She’s a liar. She manipulated me. I loved her. She loved me. I think. I don’t know. She seemed to want to tell me something. She didn’t like the term cuddle buddy. I don’t know why. We would hold each other as we slept. She would hold me as I had nightmares. I’m so tired. I just want to hold her and sleep.”

“It’s OK,” Marlet assured. She hugged Richard. “You’ll get back to her. You’ll get back to her but for now you need to sharpen your ax. Rest Richard. Please…”

“What do you think she wanted to tell me?” Richard inquired.

“Maybe she loved you as more a partner than a cuddle buddy?” Marlet suggested.

“Is that what this is?” Richard asked. “I… I don’t know what romantic loves feels like I don’t know… I always felt I was being weird or creepy with those feelings. That they would scare her away I… I’m so tired. I miss George. He did martial arts. His uncle beat him for beer money. He was so kind. He didn’t like that we were violent. He helped me get home after I attacked his uncle. Maybe he was right.”

“And you can see him again,” Marley assured. “It’s going to be OK. Hey! You’ll have a new sibling to introduce him to when you get home! Isn’t that nice? Besides those feelings for Lily are completely natural to have. You… you’re really stunted huh? Maybe she didn’t think she could tell you? Cause you’re a bit… emotionally stunted?”

“I miss Jonathan.” Richard continued crying and rambling as he fully broke down. “He taught me how to fight. He hated me attacking people. He wanted me to stop. But he taught me to fight cause “lesser of two evils.” He said if he let me get killed that was worse. He’s disappointed in me isn’t he?”

“I’m sure he’s very proud.” Marlet assured. “I’m sure they all are. You can rest. It’s OK.”

“I miss Riley…” Richard sobbed.

Marlet didn’t say anything. She couldn’t say anything to that. She merely replied. “I know…”

*You feel a weight has been lifted…

*You feel so tired…

*You drift off into sleep.

Marlet went back downstairs where she sat on the couch and sighed, her face buried into her wings.

“You OK Marlet?” Q.B. inquired.

“How could anyone do that?” Marlet demanded crying.

“Do what?” Q.B. asked?

“I know why Richard is so fucked up now at least,” Marlet replied. “What do I even say to this?”

“What happened Marlet?” Q.B. inquired.

“Richard has a baby sister,” Marlet replied. “She was poisoned… and died in his arms. It gets worse…”

As Marlet continued to recount what Richard had whispered to her the scene faded away. Richard awoke a few hours later, rubbing his eyes.

*You feel like you slept for days.

*You reach out to stroke Lily’s cheek.

*Oh… right.

Richard started to get out of bed. He heard Purity growl. “Marlet’s advice was bullshit.”

Richard snarled back. “Better than your advice.”

“Coward,” Purity snarled.

Richard ignored him and went downstairs. Clover meanwhile inquired to Marlet, “Wait so why can’t you tell me what Richard told you? He’s my brother.”

“I don’t think he wanted you to know yet,” Marlet replied. “He’ll tell you when he’s ready. Trust me you don’t wanna know anyways. Not right now.”

“Wait…” Clover demanded. “Do you know who killed Riley?”

Marlet fell silent for a moment before solemnly nodding. “…yes.”

Richard entered the room. Marlet harshly changed subject. Pretending she was already talking about it. “And that’s why the Royal Guard makes puzzles!”

Clover played along. “That explains a few things.”

“You guys ready to go?” Richard inquired rubbing his eye.

“Hey wait,” Clover pointed out. “Your eye…”

“What’s wrong with my eye?” Richard inquired.

“Doll you may wanna look in a mirror,” Q.B. explained.

Q.B. handed Richard a hand mirror to look at the nasty scar under his left eye.

“Why is that there now?” Richard demanded. “It wasn’t there before.”

“Wounds tend to leave scars as they heal,” Marlet explained. “Must have formed from an old wound that healed as you slept. You slept for a while.”

Richard shrugged, “Eh. It’s fine. It’s just a scar. You guys ready? We gotta rebuild that ladder. Get everyone out of these forests.”

“Sounds fine by me,” Clover agreed.

The trio left, Marlet declaring. “We’ll get you all home safely. OK?”

“Thanks,” Q.B. replied. “You know you’re like what the Royal Guard should be.”

“Aw it’s nothing!” Marlet laughed off the compliment.

The trio then left. Richard found the ladder piece on the cliff but…

*He’s near.

*Grab this one last.

Richard and co went through the forest grabbing the ladder piece by piece and fighting off the Feral Snowdrakes before returning to the ladder on the cliff.

“OK now let’s fix that ladder and-“ Marlet began to declare with a smile before bones appeared over the ravine.

“Bro!” Clover demanded. “Run!”

The trio began to flee, narrowly avoiding the barrage of projectiles through the dark forests before finally arriving back at the cabin.

“Found you,” Sans sneered emerging from the darkness.

“Impure!” Richard snarled before charging again.

Combat initiated.

No Papyrus to break things up.

No distractions.

Even if earlier than anticipated, wounded from Sans’s prior attacks.

This was it.

*For Riley.

“Guess there’s no time like the present!” Marlet declared.

Richard and Clover guarded allowing Marlet to Observe.

*Marlet spotted a weakness!

*Sans can’t dodge for three turns!

“I’ll end this in one move!” Sans declared. “You annoying little shit!”

Sans prepared his attack, only to be shot in the back with a crossbow, dealing heavy damage.

“You fucking cowards!” He screamed. “I’ll kill you! All of you! I’ll rip your souls from your bodies!”

“Try me,” Richard growled. “I’ve been waiting for this since I FUCKING GOT HERE!”

The skeleton’s expression changed to one of fear. He appeared genuinely nervous. “You… you have in you don’t you? The desire to kill? I’ve toyed with you to much. You’re a genuine threat…”

In the blink of an eye Sans was gone.

Q.B. lowered her crossbow. “You three OK?”

“Yeah,” Clover replied. “Bro you good?”

Richard was growling and panting like a rabid dog.

“Partner?” Clover demanded.

“Sorry,” Richard caught his breathe. “Let’s just go. OK? I’m not letting him take you away from me…”

“Richard we talked about this,” Marlet pleaded. “It’s gonna be OK.”

“Let’s.” Richard growled. “Go.”

“OK I’ll meet you guys at the ladder,” Q.B. explained. “Then we can finally get to… realitive safety.”

Q.B. went off to fix the ladder, and the trio followed.

“Let’s get out of here,” Clover groaned. “This ain’t my kinda town.”

“I feel that,” Richard agreed. “How long do you think it’ll take?”

“Not long,” Q.B. assured. “As soon as I-“

A Feral Chilldrake roared and approached.

“Impure fuckers!” Richard screamed. “Stay behind us!”

The Chilldrake put up a fight but force and words did nothing to quell its wrath.

It only came to its senses a Snowdrake approached and asked, “Chilly?” It came into view of the battle. “Chilly are you OK?”

The two monsters began to talk and reconciled before leaving.

“I hate this,” Richard groaned.

Clover held their gun out, trembling. “It was going to kill us… it wasn’t going to back down it was them or us…”

“Hey hey,” Q.B. tried to reassure the kids. “It’s OK. We can leave now to somewhere safer. Don’t worry kids it’s…”

Richard vomited from stress. Clover broke down crying, dropping their gun and falling to their knees.

“Woah woah easy easy it’s OK!” Marlet tried to reassure Clover, hugging them. “It’s OK… I’m here… I’m here… they can’t hurt you two anymore.”

Richard’s eyes slowly drifting toward the gun as Purity approached the trio from the darkness. “Easy way out. See Riley again. Seize the opportunity. I don’t wanna suffer anymore. We’re never getting home man…”

Marlet turned to look at Richard as his eyes lingered on that gun just a little too long. His eyes focused on it a second to long to be normal.

Marlet grabbed it quickly and handed it back to Clover. She whispered, “Don’t let him hold that. No matter what he says. Don’t let him have it.”

“Is it that bad?” Clover inquired.

“It’ll be OK,” Marlet tried to reassure him. She approached Richard and asked. “Richard? You OK?”

“We have to keep moving,” Richard forced himself to his feet. “I hate this… I hate this… I just wanna cuddle Lily. See George and Jonathan and hug them and play video games. And just… cry.”

“I know,” Marlet reassured him. “I know.”

“Come on kid,” Q.B. tried to reassure him. “You can do this. When we get to Snowdin it’ll be OK.”

Richard nodded, “OK…”

“I’ll go on ahead,” Q.B elaborated. “I’m sure I can find places for you to stay in Snowdin. Just watch out for those skeletons OK?” Q.B. Went up the ladder, the trio not far behind.

The trio continued onward, examining a roadblock that sealed the north path.

“How bad is it over there?” Richard inquired.

“You don’t wanna know,” Marlet replied. “Trust me.”

“Hey something I DO want to know,” Clover interjected. “How’s this world’s Ceroba and Starlo?”

“Engaged,” Marlet replied. “Dalv is a pretty good wing man turns out! They’re so cute together. Unfortunately… wedding got postponed cause when Starlo was asked who his best man, or, person in your case, was, he suggested you and just kinda started crying and now he can’t choose a best man.”

“Some things never change,” Clover shrugged. “Uhhh… I know a guy who might be able to help? Maybe?”

“What are you talking about?” Marlet inquired.

“It’s complicated let’s just talk about it later,” Richard replied.

“OK,” Marlet shrugged confused.

The trio proceeded before being stopped by two Royal Guards, dogs with axes as tall as they were.

“Run for your lives!” One cried.

“What’s wrong?” Richard demanded.

“He’s at it again!” The other elaborated without giving any real answers before the two fled.

The two dogs fled with blinding speed, Sans following slowly behind, growling, “They got away.”

“You,” Richard growled, sticking out his arm to shield Clover.

Sans turned slowly and sneered, “Ah. There you are. Sorry I just felt I needed some more EXP. We can end this now.”

“End what?” Clover demanded.

“Sans back off,” Marlet demanded. “That’s an order.”

“You’re not Royal Guard anymore Marlet,” Sans chuckled. “You can’t tell me what to do.”

“We outnumber you three to one,” Richard growled. “You’ll just be purified like the others.”

“Purifed is quite the term for torture,” Sans chuckled. “But you never quite finish the job do you? Never gain your EXP. Never gain LOVE. It’s clear you’re not scared of hurting people. You’re like me in a way.”

“That’s enough,” Clover pulled their gun. “Leave my brother alone!”

“Oh OK let’s talk about you and your friends in the East then,” Sans mocked. “Feisty Five I think they were called? We were briefly stationed in the Wild Wild East a bit after Clover died. They didn’t take kindly to a Royal Guard. There were whispers of rebellion.”

Sans’s eyes went dark. “They didn’t put up much of a fight though.”

Clover screamed, “You bastard!” They fired their gun only to miss as Sans easily evaded the attack, everything going dark and returning with the gun smoking but Sans uninjured.

Richard growled and snarled, foaming at the mouth. “Stay the FUCK away from my sibling!”

“They’re not who I’m worried about anyways,” Sans admitted. “You however, you cause me a great deal of concern. You fight like a rabid dog without his master. Someone kept you on a leash didn’t they? They’re not here anymore. You’re like me in that sense. Unchained you can cause some real carnage. Letting you wander freely is a time bomb cause if you snap, gain LOVE, we’ll all be dust by morning. I’m not risking that.”

“He’s just a kid!” Marlet snapped back. “Not some animal! Not some killer!”

“No but you can see it in his eyes,” Sans elaborated. “He’s seen death. He knows what a kill looks like he knows how to do it.”

“Back off!” Market screamed. “Last warning!”

“What was their name?” Sans demanded. “The one who kept you in line? The one who gave you orders?”

“…Lily.” Richard turned away. “She… she helped me choose targets. Covered for me when I attacked George’s uncle.”

“Well you know what we do to rabid animals?” Sans demanded.

“What?” Richard asked.

“We put them down,” Sans sneered.

Combat initiated.

For real this time.

This was it.

*For Riley.

Richard and Clover guarded, Marlet watching Sans’s movements carefully with Observe. Waiting for a moment to strike. She found a moment of hesitation as he dodged that could be exploited.

“There’s a moment when he dodged he hesitates putting weight on his left foot,” Marlet explained. “Maybe an old injury? That’s our opening.”

*Marlet spots a weak point! Sans can’t dodge for three turns!

Sans countered with a barrage of Bones, like spears they struck, stabbing Richard twice. Richard spat blood and glared at Sans with pure hatred.

Richard evaded as Gaster Blaster, the blast burning off the hairs on the tip of his head, but to no avail as he landed a nasty uppercut right on the skeleton’s jaw. Sans staggered back, Clover exploiting his off balance footing to land a shot in his ribs. Marlet followed suit with a sharp cut from her talons across his chest, slicing his jacket to ribbons.

The battle raged on like this until Sans, both him and his enemy battered and broken, let out a horrible scream. “YOU COST ME EVERYTHING! EVERYTHING! YOU HUMANS COME DOWN HERE AND RIP US APART! YOU TRAP OUR PEOPLE AND TREAT US LIKE AN ANT FARM! GRABBING AND SQUASHING ANTS JUST BECAUSE YOU FEEL LIKE IT!”

Sans rushed past Marlet and Clover, blasting them out of the way with Gaster Blasters as he grabbed Richard and threw him around, trying to send him into bones the boy narrowly avoided, working his way to Sans.

Sans continued to scream. “And YOU! RICHARD! BEATING MONSTERS INTO SUBMISSION FOR YOUR OWN SICK EGO! LIKE THAT WILL CHANGE ANYTHING! IT’S NOTHING MORE THAN SADISM AND SELF DENIAL! I KNOW YOUR TYPE CAUSE IT’S ME! AND LIKE ME YOU’LL SNAP AND SLAUGHTER! IT WILL BE THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE! I WON’T LET THAT HAPPEN! I WON’T BE DENIED FREEDOM AGAIN!”

Sans slammed Richard around like a rag doll, Richard screaming in pain before Sans finally fell. He was exhausted, TIRED. “I can’t let you hurt my brother…”

*Purify him. Make an example.

Clover fired a WARNING SHOT!

“Any shot…” Sans sneered. “Not fired at me... will not stop me…”

*Purify him. Make an example.

Richard let out a horrible GROWL.

“You think snarling like the dog you are will do anything?” Sans sneered. Sans continued with a shit eating grin. “You two can’t intimidate me. I am not moving, and unless you die, neither are you. You know… there was a kid. Susie was it? An orphan? I remember something you’ll love to hear. She was just a kid. No parents. No one who loved her. And I killed her.”

“I killed her,” Sans repeated.

“I killed her.”

Richard saw everything begin to turn red.

“I killed her.”

“I killed her.”

Richard could only see a crimson haze of rage.

“I killed Riley.”

This was of course a hallucination fueled by a blind rage but it made no difference to what Richard did next.

*Richard purified the enemy…

When vision returned, Sans had been disarmed. In a very literal sense. His arms lay in the snow, detached from his body.

“Richard what the FUCK?” Clover demanded.

The battle ended with Sans disarmed on the ground, to tired to move, and no means to attack.

“The enemy has been purified,” Purity declared, fronting now. “We are leaving.”

“Don’t you think that was a bit much?” Richard demanded from the sidelines.

Marlet looked at Richard in shock and fear. “Why did you do that? What is wrong with you?”

“We are leaving,” Purity repeated. “Not my fault Richard gave up on fronting there.”

“Then stop fronting,” Clover growled.

“Fine,” Purity shrugged. “I made him pay. I did what I set out to do.”

Richard returned to his own body and declared, “In my defense he said he killed Riley.”

“He…” Marlet pointed out, “Never said that?”

“Who’s Riley?” Sans demanded.

“You wanna lose a leg too?!?” Purity screamed before Richard began to front again. “You didn’t hear him? He just kept saying “I killed her” over and over and over until he said he killed Riley and… then Purity took over for a second. I saw red and that was that.”

Sans fell silent, not wanting to push his luck. Clover stopped forward with a deep worry in his eyes. “Richard… I think you’re getting worse.”

“I’m fine,” Richard assured. “Besides he can’t bother us anymore. Can we please find the gray door and leave? I don’t wanna do this anymore.”

“Richard you ARE getting worse,” Clover demanded. “Please we’re worried about you.”

“We can worry when we’re at least somewhere safer than this,” Richard replied. “I mean do you wanna get ambushed by some other monster wanting our souls?”

“This conversation isn’t over,” Clover declared. “Family sticks together but they call each other out too.”

“Yeah you…” Marlet sighed. “You’re not well, Richard.”

“Whatever,” Richard sighed. “I say we take this guy to… I dunno Q.B.? Some sort of jail? Or-“

Everything went black for a second and when vision returned Sans was gone.

“Nevermind,” Richard sighed. “Let’s just go.”

Hesitantly, the trio proceeded onward despite their concerns about Richard. They approached Papyrus who greeted them at the next puzzles. “Hello Clover the undead!” He joked.

“Hey,” Clover greeted awkwardly.

“Why so tense?” Papyrus inquired. “Even if you are dead you’re still more man than skeleton! Nyeh heh heh! I genuinely have no idea how you’re alive but no matter! There are more puzzles ahead and I have question!”

“What’s your question?” Richard demanded. “We’re in a hurry. Make it quick.”

“Have you seen my brother?” Papyrus inquired.

There was a tense silence for a moment before Marlet interjected, lying. “I’m sure he’s just taken one of his shortcuts back to Grilby’s. I never understood how those work!”

“No one does!” Papyrus replied. “Anyways he rearranged this puzzle some time ago and I… don’t know the solution!”

“We got it,” Richard assured. “But can’t you like just… walk over the spikes? With your long legs!”

“I…” Papyrus fell silent for a moment. “An outstanding idea! I will you go ahead! Guess I have my own shortcuts! Nyeh heh heh!” With that he walked over the rocks and spikes and he was gone.”

“What do we even tell him?” Clover demanded.

“What do you mean?” Richard inquired.

“You ripped off his brother’s arms!” Clover screamed.

“We don’t tell him ANYTHING,” Marlet demanded. “Not a word. I know this guy. We hangout sometimes and discuss puzzles. He’s nice and all but… you don’t wanna upset him. Trust me.”

“Yeah I think some people have mentioned the taller one being more dangerous,” Richard replied. “But he seems to nice for that.”

“I mean yeah he’s a good friend and all,” Marlet replied. “But if he learns we hurt Sans… trust me. Let’s get you two to the next world you’re going through before he finds out. I can pass the buck to blaming you two after you leave so he won’t get mad at me and you’ll already be gone.”

“Richard seriously why did you do that?” Clover inquired.

“So you guys didn’t hear him repeat it over and over?” Richard demanded.

“No,” Clover replied. “You hallucinated that.”

“…well I mean not saying what I did is right but he can’t kill anyone anymore.” Richard replied. “Maybe it was right though.”

“You crippled a man for life Richard,” Marlet replied. “Right or wrong that’s not your call. You would need a trial jury, and so on. You can’t just decide to do that at the drop of a hat.”

“Yeah Marlet’s right,” Clover elaborated. “We aren’t judge, jury, and executioner partner. Our goal isn’t to judge and punish. It’s to bring Riley back.”

“I’m sorry you’re trying to what?” Marlet demanded.

“Yeah some guy named Gaster kinda just ripped me out of reality as I was being beaten to death,” Richard replied. “He brought Clover back and if we go through enough worlds with these gray doors he’s gonna bring Riley back.”

“Can…” Marlet asked. “Can he bring back my Clover? Our Clover?”

“I mean we can ask,” Clover offered. “I don’t see why he can’t bring another Clover back to life.”

“To do that we have to get to him,” Richard reminded.

“How does that even work?” Marlet inquired. “Reviving the dead?”

Richard shrugged, “Clover you know?”

“I kinda… felt alive when he said he revived me?” Clover replied with a distinct lack of confidence. “I’m not… fully sure. I don’t even recall being dead so I didn’t get to see the afterlife if there is one.”

“Maybe he revived you and was kinda implying he would kill you again?” Marlet inquired. “I dunno he doesn’t sound like the type to do so.”

“That doesn’t tell us HOW he did it,” Richard reminded.

“May also mean he’s an impure,” Purity reminded. “A threat to Clover.”

“We only know that he can,” Richard explained. “Haven't a clue how. I mean he stopped me from getting killed.”

“Wait what?” Clover inquired. “Hey actually hold on. You said Lily was commanding you to attack people?”

“Lily…” Richard chose his words carefully. “She wasn’t the most… trustworthy. Told me to attack a guy. Provided an alibi when I attacked another. She was just kinda… sketchy and cool with me attacking people? I don’t worry about it to much.”

“Richard you hear how bad that sounds right?” Marlet demanded. “Also did someone try to kill you?”

“Yeah when Gaster pulled me in some drug lord was beating me to death,” Richard replied. “I… I don’t wanna talk about it.”

“Partner what…” Clover stood there in confused bewilderment. “What happened?”

“I don’t want to talk about this,” Richard repeated, clinging to himself. “Please…”

“OK OK,” Clover replied. “We can drop it but… I’m a bit worried about how Lily was treating you.”

“Let’s just carry on for now,” Marlet suggested. “Richard, take a deep breath. It’s gonna be alright. OK?”

“OK,” Richard sighed sadly, those painful memories echoing in his head before the trio carried on. Some monsters caused issues for them, but to no avail for the enemy.

Finally they reached the tile puzzle only to find Papyrus and Sans absent. Marlet picked up a note in front of the activated tile puzzle, set in an unsolvable arrangement with a line of impassable tiled horizontally down the middle.

“Dear Marlet and friends,” Marlet read aloud. “I am currently looking for my brother. Please let me know if you see him. I have set up the puzzle in advance for your enjoyment. If you can outwit the puzzles of The Great Papyrus! Nyeh he he! P.S. enclosed is a rule book which-“

“I’m not reading all that,” Marlet declared. “I know this puzzle Paps and I do it all the time together for fun! This arrangement is unsolveable.”

“What do we do then?” Clover inquired.

“Maybe there’s a way to go around?” Richard suggested.

“Nah there’s no real side roads,” Clover replied. “Maybe we check back at the cabin? Maybe they know something?”

“They’ve all left by now,” Richard reminded. “So that won’t work. Perhaps we try to force our way through?”

“Worth a shot,” Clover shrugged.

Richard did just that, only to find himself unable to pass. He shrugged, “No dice. Clover you’re smart. Any other ideas?”

“I could try shooting the machine powering it?” Clover suggested.

“But that could backfire. I don’t think it’s worth the risk.”

“Maybe we wait for Papyrus?” Richard shrugged.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea after what you did,” Clover reminded.

As the two discussed Marlet flew over and turned off the puzzle. “Hey guys! We can go now!”

“Thanks Marlet,” Richard replied with a smile. “Let’s roll.”

The trio carried on, finding a sigh that read, “Be aware of dog. Please pet dog.”

“Hey what’s this?” Richard inquired looking into the guard stand.

Combat initiated.

*Lesser Dog is cowering.

Richard and co all tried their own actions.

*Richard tried to pet the dog but it seems to scared!

*Clover tried to coax the dog out but it keeps whimpering and looking at Marlet!

“I think it’s scared of Marlet?” Clover suggested. “Maybe it still thinks she’s part of the Royal Guard?”

*Marlet tried to reassure the dog!

“Hey hey easy,” Marlet whispered gently. “We’re not gonna hurt you. I’m not even Royal Guard anymore.”

The Lesser Dog yippee and peaked out behind its shield.

+25% spare!

The dog swung its sword wildly, Richard ducking under the swing narrowly, a couple of his hairs being sliced off. Richard and Marlet guarded as Clover coaxed the dog out.

*Clover coaxed the dog out!

*Lesser dog anxiously lowered its shield!

+15% spare!

The dog gently and slowly looked at the trio, swinging to keep them at a distance.

Once more Clover coaxed it out from behind the shield, leaving it open.

+15 spare!

One more stack and Richard pet the dog, calming it down.

*Richard pet the lesser dog!

*Lesser dog is panting happily!

+45% spare!

Marlet spared the enemy!

The trio began to move on to the next puzzle only to fall, slipping on the ice into the pit below.

“You two OK?” Marlet demanded.

“Yeah we’re fine we-“ Clover began to reply only for them to see Ralsei smoking a blunt. Richard glared at Ralsei with death in his eyes.

“Richard?” Marlet inquired, worried. “You OK?”

“Well?” Purity demanded. “We’re waiting.”

Richard said nothing for a second before declaring. “My mom was a stoner, or, a junkie really. She took all sorts of stuff. Luckily she never tricked me or forced me to do any. Guess Riley wasn’t so lucky.”

“Wait how did Riley die?” Clover demanded.

“Alcohol poisoning,” Richard replied.

There was a tense silence in the air that Richard ignored. He merely demanded, “Are you gonna wuss out again you impure fuck?”

Ralsei merely looked at Richard for a second, silently, and faded away.

“They’re always cowards,” Richard growled. “My parents, George’s uncle, and the rest. That’s the worst part of the impure. They’re weak. Yet they think they can escape me. Vile.”

“Richard,” Clover tried to reassure him. “It’s OK. It’s gonna be OK. We’re gonna bring her back.”

Marlet’s expression was one of shock and horror. She didn’t know what to say to Richard. She turned to Clover and whispered, “Can we talk alone for a second?”

Clover nodded. They turned to Richard and suggested, “Why don’t you take a deep breath and look at the puzzle. We’ll be right behind you.”

Richard nodded and walked away.

Clover collapsed into the snow. “I don’t want to do this anymore…”

Marlet sighed, “I know. I had no idea it was that bad. Is it even… a good idea to get Richard home at this point? Your world has a Marlet right? I think… I think, next safe world you to reach you two just… stop. Maybe if it’s your world or one with a Marlet… you two just stay with her.”

“How does a baby even die from that?” Clover demanded trying not to cry.

Marlet hugged Clover, “I don’t know. But I know it’ll be OK. I’ll get you two to the next door and I think it’s best if you two just… stay there. I don’t think Richard's home is a good place for him to be.”

Clover nodded, “Yeah…”

There was a tense silence before Richard began to cry. Marlet reassured him. “It’s OK. Let it out… let it out… I should go check on him. Will you be OK?”

“Just…” Clover sobbed. “Just give me a minute.”

Marlet nodded and went to check on Richard who lay in the Snow. She inquired, “Hey. Are you OK?”

“I already told you that’s how Riley died,” Richard snarled. “Why so surpised now?”

“I just didn’t expect you to say it so suddenly,” Marlet replied. “But are you OK?”

Richard didn’t answer. He heard Purity whisper, “A monster with a human soul is really strong right! She could protect Clover… and we don’t wanna be here anymore. Let’s… lets leave. They’re better off without us.”

“Can you…” Richard asked solemnly, “Kill me?”

Marlet’s expression became one of shocked horror, tears welling up in her eyes. “What? No! No I’m not doing that!”

“But with my soul you can protect my sibling and-“ Richard explained.

“No!” Marlet screamed. “You…” Marlet looked away, as she knew what she was about to say was a lie given what she had told Clover but it was better for Richard to believe a lie and live than die. “You… you have to get back to your family, right? Lily, George, and Jonathan? You have to bring Riley back don’t you?”

Richard sighed, “I guess. I just… don’t want to do this anymore I can’t…”

“Maybe you can just…” Marlet tried to ease Richard into quitting. “Rest for a while in the next world you reach? It’s not like you have a deadline, right?”

Richard nodded, “I guess.”

“It’s gonna be OK,” Marlet assured.

Richard sighed and got up. “Where’s Clover?”

Clover approached, “There you guys are. Ready to go?”

“Yeah,” Richard sighed. “Let’s go.”

The trio solved the puzzle and moved on, finding their way to Sans once again. Sans greeted them, “Hey so… how fighting my other self go?”

“Could have gone better,” Richard sighed.

“You didn’t need to do that,” Sans added.

“I know,” Richard sighed turning away.

“You doing alright? You and your sibling seem… tense.” Sans pointed out. He winked, “Maybe you two need a little r and r. You know?”

“We need to keep moving,” Richard growled.

“What do I know?” Sans shrugged. “I’m just an old lazybones. Just keep in mind…”

Sans took a serious expression, his eyes pitch black. “If you push yourself to your breaking point you’re not the only one who gets hurt.”

After restocking on supplies the trio left, helping out the monster covered in decorations and SPARING the Gyftrot.

The trio found a cave they spent some time in, before suddenly, a monster known as Glyde attacked! It wasn’t long before Glyde was slain by Jerry, but before Jerry could utter a world a girl in a crimson cloak appeared in a flash, slicing Jerry in two with a single blinding strike. Jerry’s blade flew into the air only to be caught by Red with her back turned to the trio. She turned and glared as she spoke.

“I knew Papyrus looking at those old reports was suspicious!” Red exclaimed.

*She is glaring at Marlet.

Red swung her sword in all directions, splitting up the trio into four smaller quadrants as they narrowly evaded balls of white fire.

The trio all tried to act.

*Richard tried R-action!

*…but Red wasn’t paying attention to him!

*Clover tried C-action!

*…but Red wasn’t paying attention to them!

*Marlet tried M-action!

“Red!” Marlet demanded. “Why are you attacking me? We’re friends!”

“Oh like I would be friends with a traitor like you!” Red declared. “THEY’RE still alive!”

+1% spare!

*Smells like burnt dog treats.

As Richard and Marlet defended themselves, Clover CHECKED the enemy.

*Red. A member of the Royal Guard often mistaken for a human. She seems really pissed. Maybe betrayed?

12 ATK 12 DEF.

Red tossed two sawblades at the edges of the arena, circling around as she swung her sword wildly, aiming for Richard who narrowly ducked under her slices. He leapt back, only to get sliced by the blades and wince in pain.

*Her gaze is on Clover.

Richard guarded as Marlet used Protective Wings, using her feathers as a shield from Red’s attacks.

*Clover tried C-action!

“What do I have to do with any of this?” Clover demanded.

“You’re supposed to be dead!” Red screamed. “And now Marlet is protecting you? I was the one who told Papyrus about the reports he called about! I knew something was off! Marlet you bird brained turncoat!”

+2% spare!

*Red seems to be holding back tears.

Another flurry of bladed strikes, aimed at Clover. Marlet deflected the blade with her feathers, but the attack still went through, leaving a shallow cut on Clover’s chest.

*How come she gets TWO weapons?

As Richard and Clover defended themselves Marlet used M-action.

“But the reports were true! You have the soul to prove it!” Marlet retorted.

“And we only need one more!” Red retorted. “Our people can be free! I thought we were friends! We don’t even need both of the brats!”

+3% spare!

Another barrage. This time assisted by turning the soul blue and throwing Jerry’s blade at the trio along with the slashes from her original weapon.

*She's looking at you like (this part in Windings) “Lily’s Dad”.

Richard attempted to speak with R-action:

“OK say I did give you my soul?” Richard inquired. “Would you ensure Clover’s safety?”

“…that easy?” Red asked, confused.

“No we are NOT DOING THIS!” Marlet screamed.

“Kid what is wrong with you?” Red inquired under her breath.

+5% spare!

Another attack with both blades, now with yellow projectiles that Clover shot out of the sky while weaving between buzzsaws.

*She's looking at Marlet confused.

Marlet used M-action to speak.

“Please…” Marlet begged. “They’re just kids. This isn’t right. You know that…”

“I do know that but we can be free and I thought… I thought if you were going rouge you would trust me! I thought we were friends!”

“We are friends!” Marlet exclaimed. “It’s just… all this kinda happened just today!”

+10% spare!

Hesitantly, Red struck once more while the soul was blue, this time accompanied by orange fireballs and the buzzsaws.

*Her hands are shaking. She’s looking at you with… pity?

Richard used R-action as Marlet renewed the defense buff.

“If you know this is wrong why are you doing this?” Richard demanded.

“Cause…” Red got choked up. “You were willing to die anyways! You’re not one to talk!”

+10% spare!

A barrage of flames and yellow projectiles that Marlet protecting the two kids from with her wings. He squawked in pain as some of her feathers burned away, but stood strong all the same.

She’s looking to Marlet as if for… advice maybe?

Richard PROTECTED as Marlet used M-action.

“Is this about feeling betrayed?” Marlet inquired. “I quit for a reason. You could too. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about this but… we don’t have to fight.”

“But how many more of our people are going to die if we stay?” Red demanded. “The desperation of our people is making them rip each other apart! We have to get out!”

+10% spare!

Another attack, a brutal stab right for Clover. Richard shoved them out of the way, his heart racing. Adrenaline pumped throughout his body. Despite being brutally impaled, there was no wound.

*She's looking at Clover with an expression of guilt.

Clover used C-action to speak.

“Hey look,” Clover pleaded. “I know that being left in the dark sucks but… you don’t wanna do this. You know this isn’t right. You know that. What is this really about?”

+10% spare!

Red didn’t say anything. She merely lowered her head in shame. She didn’t even attack, frozen in place.

*She's still looking at Clover.

Clover used C-action.

“Careful Clover!” Marlet exclaimed.

*Clover is approaching her, arms outstretched.

“Come on pardner,” Clover smiled. “We all make mistakes. We won’t judge you. What’s really going on.”

“I…” Red collapsed. “I…” she started crying. “I was there…. I was there when the Feisty Five…”

“Oh Red…” Malret approached and hugged Red. “It’s not your fault Red. You…”

“Asgore, the Royal Guard…” Red continued crying. “It’s bullshit. It’s all bullshit. We don’t protect people we just…. Kill humans. I just… I couldn’t stop that fucking Skelton. If I was stronger… if I had a human soul. Just ONE human soul… I could kill that fucking tyrant. I could avenge them. Avenge your friends. OUR friends. If I was stronger… “

“Is that why you haven’t been talking to me?” Marlet demanded. “Red, it’s not your fault. You did your best. Asgore sucks. But… if you repeat his sins to stop him the cycle just continues.”

“You forgive me?” Red inquired. “After I failed to protect them you-“

“I never blamed you in the first place,” Marlet assured. “I mean, we’re friends. Aren’t we?”

+50% spare!

The battle ending with Marlet helping Red to her feet. “I’m… sorry. I’m so sorry…” Red apologized. “Here. You need these more than I do. It’s not like I need the spare, and Clover can make better use of these.”

*You got the Crimson Cloak.

*You got the Burning Bullets.

“If you’re serious about…” Red continued. “Treason…”

“We can talk about that later,” Marlet replied. “You just go rest. Cry if you still need too. I’ll come back by to check on you.”

Red left solemly, but with slight relief in her smile. “I missed you Marlet.”

“I missed you too,” Marlet assured.

With that Red left.

“You two OK?” Marlet inquired.

“Should have purified her,” Purity snared.

Richard ignored him and replied. “We’re fine.”

“I wonder if my Malret is friends with her Red,” Clover added.

Marlet shrugged, “Well ask her when we get you home. We should… go.”

“Yeah before more shit happens,” Richard agreed.

The trio left with their new weapons.

Crimson Cloak - 9 DEF. A crimson cloak with some dust on it. Increased TP gain from grazing bullets.

Burning Bullets - 4 ATK. Don’t hit very hard, but the flames slightly lower enemy defense with each perfect hit. It’s like pellets of fire magic frozen in time. They don’t burn until you actually fire them.

The trio moved on until they ran across Q.B. who stood by a doghouse, glaring ahead. “More Royal Guards?” Richard inquired.

“That damn dog is in the way,” Q.B. Replied. “Are you three holding up OK?”

“Fine,” Richard replied.

“Not really we really gotta get these two out of here,” Marlet whispered.

“Well I think this dog is the last guard that’ll cause you any trouble so, get past him and you’re home free to Snowdin,” Q.B. assured.

“Good,” Clover sighed. “Hopefully the next door is there. I fucking hate this place. No offense.”

“None taken this place sucks,” Marlet conceded.

The trio moved on to confront the Greater Dog. It spoke in a robotic voice. “Halt state your business.”

“They’re with me,” Marlet assured.

“You have resigned from your position and surrendered the authority it provided,” the Greater Dog retorted. “Surrender the prisoners at once.”

“Greater you know me,” Marlet pleaded. “You don’t wanna do this. Come on.”

“Strike,” Purity whispered. “His guard is down.”

“Good soldiers follow orders Marlet,” Greater retorted.

“Good people do the right thing,” Marlet countered. “Which are you?”

“…I will inform my superiors there was nothing to report.” Greater Dog conceded before walking away.

“That worked?” Richard inquired.

“Yeah it’s almost like violence isn’t always the answer,” Clover snarkily replied.

“I know,” Richard sighed. “I… I’m sorry. I’m filth I know that but-“

“Hey no no one is saying that!” Marlet retorted. “You just… need to chill. OK?”

“…I’ll try.” Richard sighed.

“Pussy!” Purity taunted.

Q.B. approached and explained. “I can’t believe that worked. I forgot how well respected you were for bringing in a SOUL Marlet.”

“Wait how did you get this world’s Clover’s soul?” Richard inquired.

Marlet nervously tried to think of a lie, “Well I-“

“We should leave now!” Clover exclaimed.

“Yeah I really have to get back to my shop,” Q.B. added. “Meet me there. I’ll hide you two for a while until the heat dies down.”

Q.B. went on ahead.

“She didn’t answer our question,” Purity whispered.

“What are you implying?” Richard demanded.

“She’s an impure!” Purity exclaimed. “What else? She was Royal Guard she probably killed this world’s Clover!”

“I’m not talking about this,” Richard snarled.

Marlet snapped her hands in Richard’s face. “Hey, easy kiddo. Don’t listen to the alter. He’s not real.”

“I know I know,” Richard sighed. “You two ready to go?”

Clover nodded and the trio carried on onto the bridge. The air became heavy with snow, and soon only a sea of white could be seen.

Q.B. walked past Papyrus as I the trio stopped in front of the tall skeleton.

“So about my brother,” Papyrus demanded.

“Shit!” Purity exclaimed. “No way out now! Strike while we can!”

“That was you,” Papyrus growled. “Wasn’t it?”

“He killed innocents!” Purity screamed, suddenly fronting. “Children! I’d get his legs too if I could!”

Papyrus fell silent for a moment and lunged, only to be thrown down by Purity.

“You’re not going ANYWHERE YOU IMPURE SACK OF SHIT!” Purity screamed leaping after him!

“Bro!” Clover called.

Marlet picked up Clover and began to fly down after Richard as he fell through the gauntlet, evading the traps with ease.

Richard landed on a great pile of snow, getting up and snarling like a hound out for blood. Marlet and Clover landed in front of him.

“Richard calm down!” Clover demanded. “Bro! Come on man! You don’t wanna do this partner!”

Richard was crying, “I won’t let him take you away from me!”

“No one’s going to take me away!” Clover cried. “We can’t do this anymore!” Clover began to grip their own hair. “I can’t do this anymore! The death and violence! I can’t do this!”

“You think I wanna keep doing this?” Richard retorted. “I don’t even wanna be here anymore! I just want to see Riley again!”

The two collapsed in the snow, Richard wiped Clover’s tears, still crying himself. Marlet handed them each a tissue. “Richard… Clover… I think you two should just stop in whatever world is next.”

“I have to bring Riley back,” Richard retorted.

“Death also works,” Purity shrugged.

“Are you even going to be able to keep yourself alive that long?” Marlet demanded.

“We’ve fought off everyone so far,” Richard retorted.

“They’re not who I’m worried about,” Marlet trailed off solemnly. “It’ll be OK. Just…”

“Maybe she’s right,” Clover sighed. “Maybe it’s time to stop… we… we can’t keep going.”

“What if Gaster hurts you?” Richard demanded forcing himself to his feet. “I’ll protect you I can… I can keep going.”

“No you can’t,” Clover shook his head.

“Yes.” Richard growled. “I. Can!”

“What if you hurt yourself!?!” Clover screamed. “What then? What if I lose my brother cause he just gave up on living?”

“Not like they’d lose anything or value,” Purity growled. “What good can you do for him? The deranged sociopath. Some role model some big brother you are. Riley died cause you failed as her brother. This is no different. Every moment you allow your filth to infect their life you’re failing them.”

“Can you really keep doing this Richard?” Marlet demanded.

Richard look away, “…no.”

“Then we get you two through the next door and you find a place to stay,” Marlet demanded.

“We could always see if we can get back to Paula?” Clover suggested.

“Let’s just go…” Richard choked back tears as the trio carried on.

Papyrus blocked the door, waiting for them, an enraged glare on his face.

“You come here,” Papyrus declared. “Gain the alliance of that feathered traitor. Trespass on our lands. Beat monsters into submission as you deem fit. All that I could forgive. But no, on top of all that you cripple my brother for life.”

“Your brother was a mass murderer,” Marlet retorted. “And he forced you to kill. I’ve told you to cut him off for months Papyrus! We had to defend ourselves!”

“There is a fine line between self defense and mutilation,” Papyrus glared. “Don’t try to talk to me like we’re friends Marlet.”

“Please don’t do this,” Clover begged. “Please. We just don’t wanna suffer anymore.”

“And my brother must suffer for the rest of his days?” Papyrus demanded. “No. As for Royal Guard procedure, I shall face you in honorable combat.”

“Papyrus please,” Marlet begged.

“I shall face you in honorable combat!” Papyrus screamed.

Combat initiated.

*For Riley.

“You clearly already know blue attacks well to get past my brother,” Papyrus declared. “I’ll have to try my orange attack instead!”

Papyrus fired a barrage of or orange bones and Gaster Blasters at the trio, who harmlessly evaded the attacks by scattering across the battlefield.

Richard felt a tug in his chest, and his soul became a vibrant orange.

“You’re orange now!” Papyrus declared. “That’s my attack!”

*You’re orange now.

Richard’s soul moved through the options at a steady but distracting pace, unable to sit still. No matter what he did, he couldn’t seem to calm down. His heart raced in his chest. No matter what he could not stop moving.

Richard lunged for Papyrus, landing a shoulder bash on the skeleton that did little damage. Clover followed up, firing off a burning round right in a weak spot in Papyrus’s armor that burned away at the protective outer layer. This left him open to a barrage of feathers from Marlet, which he blocked with his arms.

“Allow me to begin by reviewing your crimes!” Papyrus exclaimed. “Several counts of assault, intimidation, torture, and… no counts of murder. However no matter, as a member of the Royal Guard it is my duty to stop you all the same!”

Spinning bones flew at the trio, Richard hit the duck to avoid one before rising back to his feet.

“Richard look out!” Clover exclaimed.

Richard turned as the bone flew back at Papyrus, clamming him in the chest. Richard groaned in pain and staggered back.

*Smells like burnt spaghetti.

Clover tried to get a better look at the skeleton as the other two attacked. Richard rushed forward, striking Papyrus in the face with a flying knee to the heck that sent Papyrus’s head spinning in place. This left him unable to account for the barrage of feathers that sliced into his armor.

Clover managed to CHECK Papyrus.

*Papyrus - A member of the Royal Guard who partook in the slaughter or Snowdin agaisnt his own will. A kind but stern soul.

10 ATK 8 DEF.

Papyrus grabbed his own head and set it back forward. He sneered. “Furthermore we are one human soul short of breaking the barrier! These are crimes I could forgive however…”

Papyrus fired a barrage of blue Gaster Blasters. Richard ran ahead of the barrage, which followed him in a clockwise motion before stopping and suddenly reversing, firing counterclockwise. This forced Richard to quickly turn around, skidding in the snow as he dashed ahead of the circular attack. The direction swapped once more before the blasters faded away.

*He doesn’t seem the malicious type. Just keep him talking.

Clover nodded at Richard and steadied their aim, looking for just the right spot to strike at…

There, a spot where the armor has been burned away. Clover landed a PRECISE SHOT right in this weak point, sending cracks throughout the steel. This left an opening for Richard and Marlet to follow up, Marlet screeching and clawing at the damage armor. Papyrus staggered back only to be met with another blow from Richard right in the chest that left him winded.

“But harming my brother? That I can’t abide!” Papyrus continued, catching his breath. “By the authority of king Asgore, I sentence you all to be apprehended and tried in his court!

…

Yes he’s just going to kill you but that’s not my job!”

Papryus threw bones and flames at Marlet, who dashed through the air, catching a bone in her talons and crushing it. However, the embers that rained down from above seared her feathers. She cried out in pain and landed in the snow to put herself out.

*He’s dancing in place to his own music. I mean, can you blame him?

The battle raged on like this until Papyrus was on his last legs, the snow charred around the four fighters, all winded. Papryus growled, “This isn’t over you… you!…”

Papyrus raised his hands, firing a barrage of burning bones and blue Gaster Blasters at the trio the blue beams burning Marlet’s armor as she narrowly evaded the blast. Clover shot the bones that flew at them out of the air, missing one that swung back from behind them. “Hit the deck sib!” Richard exclaimed as he shoved Clover out of the way.

Papyrus collapsed to his knees, “No… I… but my brother… he’s all I have…”

*You don’t know why to say. You turn to Clover. They shrug and pass the buck to Marlet.

*Marlet tried M-action!

“Papryus,” Marlet explained approaching the Skelton slowly. “We had to defend ourselves. I know he forced you to do horrible things but… you have to understand. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad person. You did your best in a bad situation.”

“But who would even accept a killer like me now?” Papyrus sobbed.

“I would,” Marley assured as she hugged Papyrus. “You’re like, my best friend. You need to stop letting Sans hurt you and walk away. Build a new family.”

“I…” Papyrus hesitated. “OK…. I trust you…”

*You won! Got 0 EXP and 68 Gold!

Marlet helped Papyrus up, “Come on. It’s gonna be OK. You two alright?”

Clover nodded, “Yeah. Yeah I’m good.”

Richard was hyperventilating, but gave a thumbs up.

“You two stop in the next safe world,” Marlet ordered. “Here’s my cell if you need me.”

*You got Another Marlet’s cell phone number!

“What about you?” Clover inquired.

“There’s something we still have to do here,” Marlet explained. “Don’t come by until it’s done. I’m proud of you. OK? Both of you.”

“Thanks,” Clover replied. “Richard? You OK over there?”

Richard nodded and limped towards the door.

“Are you sure you’re OK you-“ Marlet inquired.

Richard didn’t say anything.

“I think we just need to get somewhere safe so we can relax,” Clover replied.

Richard nodded.

“Oh he’s nonverbal again,” Marlet pointed out. “You two stay safe. I'll cya later.”

Richard gave a pained smile and nodded as him and Clover jumped through the door and-

End of Section 3.

Chapter Text

Richard awoke on the bank of a river, a young girl his age with long hair by his side.

“Welcome back,” she greeted with a soft smile.

“Cuddle buddy?” Richard asked, confused.

“You shouldn’t be there,” she continued. “You’re supposed to go see Riley.”

“But…” Richard protested. “Lily… what about you? What about George?”

“George hated what we were doing don't you think he’d hate us too?” Lily inquired. “And me? I watched you nearly get beaten to death. Maybe I was gonna step in, but, you know. You probably would have died either way.”

“You would have saved me,” Richard pleaded. “Right? You… you’re not her. You’re not… she would have saved me… right?” Richard began sobbing.

The nightmare of Lily repeated, “You’re going to see Riley.”

Richard marched silently into the water, going beneath the surface of the blue and not remerging…

“Is he awake yet?” A voice inquired.

“I don’t think so,” another voice replied. “He keeps crying in his sleep. Should we wake him up?”

“Richard?” A voice asked. 

*You feel someone gently shake you awake. 

Richard awoke in Snowdin, Clover and a deer monster standing over him.

“So you’re Richard,” the deer greeted.

Richard nodded.

“You still nonverbal?” Clover inquired.

“I…” Richard gasped out. “I’m OK… I… I can speak…”

“So you two are the humans?” Dess inquired. “Never thought I’d get to meet a human let alone two.”

“Yeah it’s been a crazy few days,” Clover conceded.

Richard looked at Clover, fear in his eyes. “Are we safe here?”

“Yeah,” Clover nodded. “It’s OK. This is the Underground we started in I think.”

“So no,” Purity interjected. “King is still impure we’re still in danger.”

“Pleasure to meet you two!” Dess continued. “Take it you two got a place you’re headed now? The Barrier I assume?”

“No actually,” Clover replied. “We’re headed for my friend Marlet’s place. What’s the fastest way to the Honeydew Resort area? I guess we could hitch a raid with that flying whale but it can’t carry both of us at once.”

“That was…” Dess explained. “The mail service shut down a while ago.”

“Wait what?” Clover inquired. They muttered to themself. “How long was I gone?”

“What you want is the boat,” Dess replied. “Can get you there in a matter of minutes.”

“Aight by boat then,” Richard nodded getting up. “Pleasure to meet you by the way…”

“Dess,” Dess replied. “Dess Holiday.”

“Dess!” A small voice called. “The boat is about to go!”

“Awww who’s this little one?” Clover inquired. 

“I’m Noel!” The little monster replied.

“Guess we gotta go,” Dess replied. “You two wanna just ride with us? We pass by the Honeydew Resort anyways.”

“Can we stop for pancakes?” Noel inquired.

“Sorry I don’t have any gold on me,” Dess shook her head. “Maybe next time.”

“Wait I have some,” Richard replied. 

*You gave her 68 gold.

“That enough?” Richard inquired.

“Pancakes yay!” Noel exclaimed eagerly, rushing out the door.

“Noel wait up!” Dess called. “Thanks, now come on! Can’t let Noel run off with the Royal Guard on high alert!”

“High alert?” Richard inquired. 

“They’re…” Clover explained. “Looking for us. My plan is we lay low with this world’s Marlet. Even if me coming back from the dead is…”

Clover tensed up. Richard placed a hand on their shoulder, “It’s OK. I got your back sib.”

“Thanks,” Clover smiled wearily.

The trio exited, catching up with Noel who was already on the boat. Sadly with no time for detours in Snowdin Town. 

“Pancakes pancakes!” Noel exclaimed. 

“Sorry she loves the pancakes,” Dess explained as they got on the boat. “Always gets them with crushed candy canes on top. It’s one of her favorites.”

“It’s fine,” Richard chuckled. “I wonder if Riley would have-“

*You freeze in place.

*Riley…

“You OK?” Dess asked.

“Easy partner,” Clover reassured. “It’ll be OK. Just… take a deep breath.”

Rixhaed nodded and took a deep breath. “Sorry I… had a little sister. Had.”

“Oh,” Dess replied. “I’m so sorry…”

The boat started towards their destination, River Person silently rowing.

“So where you from?” Dess inquired as Noel sat up front, not paying any mind to the trio.

“Hell,” Richard joked.

“Bit outside the mountain,” Clover replied.

“How did you two even end up stuck down here?” Dess inquired.

“I was looking for the other fallen humans,” Clover replied. “That…. Didn’t go well.”

“Oh I was saved as my cuddle buddy’s dad was beating me to death,” Richard replied.

Dess froze up and looked at Clover.

“Wait wait,” Clover inquired. “Did Lily's dad try to kill you?”

“He was an impure should they really be surprised?” Purity inquired, walking on the water beside the boat. 

“I mean…” Richard explained. “He was… in a certain trade. I attacked his customers. Lily didn’t tell me he was scum so…”

“That’s worse,” Dess interjected. “She should have warned you.”

“Richard I don’t think Lily treated you very good,” Clover added.

“Sure she did!” Richard assured. “She let me stay with her and Jonathan when I had no where to go! She lied a bit about her parents and… didn’t… step in her dad attacked me but I’m sure she was going to!”

There was a tense silence.

“She…” Richard asked anxiously. “She was going to. Right?”

“Richard what the fuck?” Dess demanded.

“Didn’t she also encourage you to attack people? Or something?” Clover inquired. 

“I mean,” Richard shrugged. “She helped cover for me. But…”

“Richard I think it’s best you stay away from this Lily girl,” Dess replied. 

“No,” Richard retorted. “She… she did care.”

“But she didn’t treat you right,” Dess replied. “Manipulating you and enabling you. She nearly got you killed. That’s not love.”

“I lied to her too!” Richard retorted. “I attacked people behind her back!”

“…maybe you were bad to each other?” Clover suggested.

“Let’s stop talking now!” Richard exclaimed.

“There we have it,” Purity sneered. “Lily was going to let you die. Can we just see Riley again already? We have nothing to go back to anymore.”

There was a tense silence before Noel inquired. “Hey Dess?”

“Yeah?” Dess inquired.

“What’s “fuck” mean?” Noel inquired.

Clover burst out laughing.

“You don’t say that!” Dess exclaimed.

“Why not?” Noel inquired. “It’s a funny word!”

“If you say it it means you’re bad,” Richard lied.

“Oh I don’t wanna be bad!” Noel exclaimed. “But Dess aren’t you bad then?”

“I just made a mistake that’s all,” Dess assured.

“OK!” Noel replied.

The boat stopped, and the trio had arrived at the Hondeydew Resort.

“OK follow me I know this place,” Clover assured.

The trio the convened in the resort itself, empty save for them, the shopkeep, and Noel. Noel sat chowing down on pancakes as the trio discussed.

“OK so,” Clover explained. “Me and Dess are gonna go speak to Marlet, make sure there’s no guards.”

“Shouldn’t I go?” Richard inquired. “I’m the better fighter.”

“We need someone to watch Noel,” Dess reminded. “Besides a monster could more easily smooth things over than two humans. You’ll be fine. You’re good with kids, judging by that save on the boat.”

“Also I’m supposed to be dead,” Clover reminded. “Could always say I’m a ghost. Ghosts are a thing it’ll be fine.”

“You’re supposed to be dead?” Dess inquired, confused.

“I’ll explain on the way,” Clover replied. “Richard, bro, partner. Do not try to purify anyone.”

“I know,” Richard sighed.

Dess and Clover left, leaving Richard to look around. He checked on Noel, who happily munched on her desert-adjacent meal.

*She is as happy as her teeth are rotting.

*She's a good kid.

*Let her enjoy it.

Richard considered leaving but…

*You can’t leave Noel unattended.

*…

*The impure could hurt her like Riley.

All there was to do was speak to the shopkeep.

Richard greeted her with an anxious smile. She returned in kind. “Hey. Welcome to the Honeydew Resort! I didn’t know Dess knew humans!”

“Are you gonna rat us out?” Richard demanded.

“What?” The shopkeep inquired. “No I-“

She slumped her head down. “Sorry I didn’t mean to make you worry.”

“No it’s OK,” Richard assured. “It’s all good.”

“Can I get you anything?” The shopkeep inquired, trying to steer to a lighter topic.

Richard browsed the shop, buying the pin that was available for Clover.

Richard decided to talk to the shopkeep.

There was only one option. The other three were simply listed as ???.

Richard asked about MARLET.

“Marlet?” The shopkeep replies. “Oh! She lives nearby! Used to be Royal Guard! Sometimes she comes by with Dalv or Starlo. Though usually she visits Starlo and Ceroba out in the Wild Wild East.”

There was a sound like crying.

“Did you hear that?” Richard inquired.

“Hear what?” The shopkeep asked.

Richard left the shop menu. He tried to speak to her again but…

*The baby is crying.

Richard went to check on Noel.

*She’s having a blast. She’s fine.

Richard went towards the door, now blocked by a crib. 

*There's crying but no baby here.

The second option had revealed itself.

Richard went back to the shopkeep and asked about THE CRIB.

“What crib?” The shopkeep inquired. 

“The one by the door.” Richard explained.

“There’s…” the Shopkeep anxiously replied. “No crib here? Are you feeling OK?”

There was crying again, and Richard went to investigate once more.

He went to check on Noel.

*She stops to look at you. 

*She looks worried.

*You give her a thumbs up.

Richard approached the crib again.

*There’s a baby in here.

*She’s blue in the face.

The next words came slow, letter by letter.

*Her breath reeks of alcohol.

Richard returned to the shopkeep where the third option revealed itself.

Richard asked YOU DON’T SEE HER?

“See who?” The shopkeep asked. “Are you OK? You’re shaking. Should I call Dess?”

There was crying again and Richard walked away.

The cabin had changed, now full of discarded beer bottles, bongs, and needles.

Richard examined one.

*Your parents never gave you this stuff.

*If they had you’d have killed yourself for being impure.

*Riley wasn’t so lucky.

Richard checked on Noel, who looked at Richard with deep worry.

“Richard?” She asked.

*Find the danger before it kills her too.

Richard walked back up to the crib.

*Her body is gone.

Richard went back to the shopkeep, who appeared to be on the phone. “OK yeah hurry back here. Your friend is freaking out, I'm worried.”

She hung up and greeted Richard. 

“Hey Richard,” her voice was anxious. “How about a nice pancake. Take a seat and relax. It’s gonna be OK.”

Richard asked the final option.

Richard asked WHERE’S RILEY?

“What?” The shopkeep asked. “I… I don’t know who that is. Take a deep breath. Dess and Clover are on their way back. It’s OK. Just-“

*Where’s Riley?

Richard’s vision darkened.

*You can’t breathe.

*Where’s Riley?

*Where’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’srileywhere’sriley

*You vomit.

When vision returned Richard was on the floor crying, wiping vomit from his mouth as Clover yelled at him. “Richard snap out of it!”

“What?” Richard inquired. “I… where did the crib go?”

“Richard…” Dess spoke gently. “Are you… OK?”

“Richard that wasn’t real,” Clover explained. “Come on bro.”

Clover helped Richard up, Richard clinged to himself, shaking. “She was here I heard her I-“

“Easy easy,” Dess assured. “It’s OK. That wasn’t real.”

“What do we do?” Clover inquired. “According to the note on her door Marlet won’t be back until tomorrow.”

“I…” Dess thought for a moment. “You can stay with us tonight. I’ll talk to my mom. We need to get Richard somewhere safe.”

“Is Richard OK?” Noel inquired.

“He’ll be OK,” Dess assured. She whispered to Richard. “Just… look I know you don’t know me that well and I don’t know you that well… but you seem kind. To kind to suffer like this. We’re gonna get through this. I’m with you two. OK?”

Richard nodded.

*You try to speak but no words come out.

*You're nonverbal again.

*You want to show you consider Dess a friend somehow.

*You open your arms for a hug.

“It’s OK,” Dess assured, hugging Richard. “You’re my friend too. OK? We’re gonna take a boat to New Home. Hide your faces.”

Richard nodded and pulled his hood over his head as Clover lowered their hat.

Back on the boat, Richard was unable to speak, leaving Dess to ask. “So… who’s Riley?”

Clover turned to Richard.

*They’re awaiting your approval to tell her.

Richard nodded.

“So Richard had a baby sister,” Clover explained. “Her name was Riley. She was murdered by… someone. Poisoned, and died of alcohol poisoning in Richard's arms. He never said who killed her.”

Dess froze in shock for a second. “…I’m sorry. I… I don’t even know what else to say here Jesus Christ.”

There was a heavy silence for a while before Clover added. “I mean Gaster brought me back to life. He can bring her back too.”

“Gaster?” Dess inquired. “Like, Royal Scientist Gaster?”

Clover nodded. “That’s who we’re working for yeah.”

“How he’s been missing for who knows how long,” Dess replied. “I thought he was dead personally.”

Clover shrugged, “I don’t know man. All I know is I died, gave up my soul, and came back because of him. Now I’m here.”

“Wait you died?” Dess demanded. “How does that even work?”

Clover once more shrugged. “As I said. I haven’t a clue how I’m here partner. Just that I am.”

The boat came to a stop, the boat person declaring. “Tra la la. The ones clad in steel seek the ones clad in flesh.”

*That sounds bad.

“Let’s just get you two inside,” Dess tried to reassure Richard as the trio got off the boat. They began to walk towards Dess’s home only to stop dead in their tracks to the sound of steel clanking on the pavement.

Undyne approached the four, Noel happily waving, blissfully ignorant of the danger Clover and Richard were in.

“What are you four doing out this late? It’s dangerous out here.” Undyne demanded. 

“Dangerous?” Clover played dumb, “Why’s that?”

“Two humans were spotted boarding a boat in Snowdin,” Undyne explained. “They could be anywhere. You four need to get home and stay inside.”

“Funny that,” Dess calmly assured. “That’s where we’re going now.”

“Good,” Undyne nodded. “If you see anything strange call the Royal Guard immediately. And if the human claims to be an alien and starts glowing yellow, run for your life.”

Undyne left, Clover held back a snicker. “She thinks Dragonball is real…”

“She thinks Dragonball is reaaaal!” Noel added.

Richard snickered, before he doubled over laughing. “She’s scared of Goku! Oh my god!”

“Ey there ya are partner!” Clover smiled, patting Richard on the back.

“OK but yeah we should go the Royal Guard is on high alert,” Dess added. “Follow my lead and let me do the talking.”

Richard and Clover nodded and followed Dess into her home. 

Ms. Holiday loomed over the four, glaring as she closed a book she was reading. Her voice was sharp like a knife as she spoke. “Where have you been? You were supposed to be home hours ago! There’s humans about!”

“Sorry,” Dess apologized. “We stopped to get Noel some pancakes. You know how she loves her pancakes.”

Ms. Holiday glared at the youngest, seeing the sticky honey around her mouth. She then turned and glared at Clover, “And who are these two?”

“Oh these are a couple monsters,” Dess lied. “Their parents are out of town and they locked themselves outside. Rick here and his little sibling, Carl, need a place to stay until their parents get home tomorrow. Can’t exactly leave them outside. As you said there’s humans about.”

Ms. Holiday sighed, rubbing her eyes. “Fine. Fine. They can sleep in your room. Whatever. You four go to bed. You’ve inconvenienced me enough as it is.”

“Goodnight,” Richard stated, slipping away quickly as Dess showed them to her room.

“Huge impure vibes,” Purity stated standing at the end of the hall. 

“Not now,” Richard growled. “We can handle that when there isn’t a metal death woman outside.”

“Dying will let us see Riley it’s a win in my book,” Purity reminded.

“Who’s Richard talking to?” Noel inquired.

“No one,” Clover replied. “Just like… an imaginary friend but mean.”

“Like an imaginary bully?” Noel inquired. “You imagined him can’t you tell him to go away?”

“He’ll try,” Dess assured rustling Noel’s hair. “You go on to bed. Brush your teeth and clean your antlers first though OK?”

Noel hugged Dess, “Goodnight sis!”

“Goodnight,” Dess smiled softly, hugging Noel back before she walked away. Dess continued, “OK I’ll set up some sleeping bags and you two can sneak out to Marlet’s tomorrow morning. They won’t check rural Snowdin anyways, and then the heat will die down in a few days.”

“Thanks,” Clover stated.

“What are friends for?” Dess smiled. “You two have been nothing to but nice to us anyways. Gave us money without us even asking for any, and just kinda being nice and hanging out. Besides, you two have suffered enough. You can rest now. OK?”

“Yeah,” Richard replied avoiding eye contact. “I… I guess so.”

“Yeah when we’re dead,” Purity interjected. 

Richard and co went into Dess’s room to sleep.

Richard closed his eyes…

Time passed.

*You can’t sleep.

*You've been laying here with your eyes closed trying so hard.

*All you see is Lily watching you die.

*All you see is Riley dying.

There was a tapping on the window.

*Someone is at the window.

*They could be an impure or a Royal Guard trying to sneak in.

*You go outside to investigate.

Richard exited the house into the dead of night, the streets silent save for the wind. Green vines covered in thrones slithered towards Richard.

Richard extended his arm, “OK Flowey what do you want?”

Flowey wrapped around his arm, “Still want that soul.”

“Piss off,” Richard growled.

“No no hear me out,” Flowey pleaded. “Asgore is right there. We can kill the tyrant. Right now!”

“I’m just getting some fresh air man,” Richard growled. “I’m not giving my soul to an impure. You can tag along or don’t. But if you’re just here for my soul, fuck off.”

“Aight,” Flowey smiled. “But I’m still not taking hits for you.”

*Flowey rejoined your party!

*…he still won’t take damage for you.

“Have you been following me or something?” Richard inquired. “Was that you at the window?”

“Don’t worry about it,” Flowey evaded. “So what’s our plans for the evening?”

“Just…” Richard shook his head. “Let’s just go…”

“Ya wanna hurt some impure!” Flowey sneered. “That always makes you feel better.”

“…you know any?” Richard inquired.

Flowey chuckled, “I’m sure we can find some. After that could you head north? I want to show you something.”

“Sure,” Richard replied.

Richard headed north but…

*This area feels important.

*You should only head here if you’ve done all you need to.

Richard walked away from the entrance to the north most room. He headed down through New Home. There weren’t many monsters out at this hour. 

Richard stumbled across two Royal Guards wandering the streets with large swords.

“Hey!” The first ordered. “What are you doing out here?”

“Just getting some fresh air,” Richard evaded.

“There’s a curfew,” the second replied. “Please return home for your own safety. Hotland and other areas are not enforcing this, but the humans are suspected to be in New Home kk.”

“Oh so you’re planning to slaughter some scared kids?” Richard demanded.

“We just-“ the first pleaded.

“Filth,” Richard growled.

Combat initiated.

*Impure like any other law enforcement.

Richard aimed an attack at R2, Flowey following suit. Richard lunges for the guard only for his attacks to be deflected by R1.

“Stay away from him!” R1 demanded.

The two guards countered with floating balls of magical light that Richard slipped past. R2 lifted his sword as the projectiles flew by, slicing his ye top half of Richard's area with an orange attack. Richard charged through the attack harmlessly before creating distance. R1 did the same with a blue swing twice in a row. Richard ducked to avoid a star only to take a blue attack to the chest.

Richard gasped for air, snarling.

*The one on the left is protecting the one on the right. ACTing isn’t an option without Clover. You have to FIGHT.

Richard and Flowey attacked once more, this time the one on the left. Richard lunged on all fours, digging his nails into a weak point at the shoulder of the armor, followed by Flowey impaling the enemy at the other shoulder. The guard cried out in pain and staggered back.

“They’re dangerous watch out!” R2 exclaimed.

Vegetables flew at Richard, the magical projectiles bouncing about the street as Richard jumped over one. The two guards’ blades flashes a series of colors. The left went, orange, orange, nothing, blue, and orange. The right mimicked this pattern. This was followed by a series of blows of the accompanying colors, with a brief respite when no color flashed.

*They can’t keep this up forever.

The battle raged on like this, projectiles and colored swords strikes in spades as Richard and Flowey countered with equal ferocity. Flowey had a devilish smile as this went on, as if waiting for something

Finally R1 fell. “R1!” R2 cried rushing to the air of his fellow, his back turned.

*Their guard is down…

Richard tried to SPARE them, but to no avail.

“Could just kill them since they’re not paying attention anywho,” Flowey suggested.

Richard ignored him, instead trying R-action.

“Hey…” Richard spoke with a low and soft tone. “I don’t want any more trouble. Alright? I’ve just…. I’ve had a rough night. Why are you two even working for Asgore? Why is he doing this?”

“You don’t know?” R1 asked, holding his wounded arm as R2 helped him up. “He had two children. A human and a monster. The human… passed and the monster took their soul. The humans slaughtered that child despite the child not fighting back. That’s why… we have to break the barrier.”

“By killing other kids?” Richard demanded. “How are you even any better?”

R2 replied solemnly, “…bro. What if he’s right?”

“I don’t know bro,” R1 sighed.

“Your king is no better than the humans who slaughtered his son,” Richard continued. “He’s just having you do the same thing. It’s all just a cycle. Besides, losing a kid is something I understand but killing other children?”

“…I think we need to think bro.” R2 declared.

“Yeah bro,” R1 replied.

*You won! Got 0 EXP and 46 gold!

Combat ended with R1 adding. “Just stay safe kid. Reports alleged that the human won’t kill, but is highly aggressive.”

“I know but he won’t kill me so,” Richard shrugged.

The guards left, leaving Flowey to scoff, “Why didn’t you kill them? That was the free!”

“And unless you want Lily to have a nice golden bouquet you’ll shut up about it,” Richard snapped back.

Flowey fell silent and the duo went down an elevator into the MTT Resort. It was late, and a few lingered outside their hotel rooms. Richard went into the nearby burger joint.

He was greeted by Sans.

“Howdy,” the skeleton greeted. “Don’t mind me just filling in for a friend.”

Richard chose to talk to Sans.

Richard asked about THIS PLACE.

“Oh this is the resort of some big shot named Mettaton.” Sans explained. “He’s a huge celebrity around here. You wouldn’t know about him. Square robot guy. My bro’s a huge fan of his.”

Richard asked about MARLET.

“Oh you’re going back to her place tomorrow right?” Sans inquired. “She’s great. A very dear friend of my bro’s. I think he has a soft spot for her. He swings both ways yknow? If you could play WINGman later that’d be great I’d owe you one.”

Richard asked about THOSE GUARDS.

“Ah those two,” Sans smiled. “Good guys. Trained under Undyne. Guess they won’t be reporting in now though.” Sans looked at Richard and assured him, “You did the right thing kid. Good job.”

Richard asked about WHERE’S RILEY?

“Easy kid,” Sans calmed him. “Don’t worry about that right now. It’s gonna be OK. Take a deep breath alright?”

“I miss her Sans,” Richard frowned.

“You can always continue your journey later after you mentally recover,” Sans reminded. “For now let yourself rest. If you hurt yourself you hurt the people who love you too.”

Richard sighed, “They’d be better off without me man…”

Richard then left, looking around the hotel. He saw the janitor cleaning up slime.

*Sysphisian cleansing. You relate in a way.

*You give him a fist bump. You are brothers in arms.

*He smiles at you.

“You smile back.

Richard examined him again.

*Leave him to his duty.

Richard then spoke to the receptionist who was asleep at her desk.

*She's dozed off.

*Let her be. You know how being unable to sleep can feel.

Finally Richard went towards the restaurant, where a rectangle of steel was demanding. “Who made the rule that two seaters have to have two people no matter what?” Mettaton demanded.

“You did sir,” the receptionist of the restaurant replied. “And we’re packed save for that one two seated table. Lot of people eating late despite the curfew since they can’t leave the resort. You said the rule would “promote drama and beautiful chance encounters.”

“So I did,” the robot conceded. He turned to Richard. “Young man! How about a late meal on me!”

Richard nodded, “I could eat.”

“Hey what about me?” Flowey demanded.

“Flowers don’t count,” the robot replied. “You can tag along.”

The two sat at the table, Richard and Flowey on one side and the machine on the other.

“What’s your name?” The robot asked.

“Richard,” Richard replied. “You?”

“Mettaton,” the machine smiled.

“I’m stealing the fries,” Flowey declared grabbing them off Richard's plate and eating them one by one.

“What are you doing at this hour?” Mettaton inquired.

“Can’t sleep,” Richard replied.

“I feel that,” Mettaton replied. “Stuck thinking about the future.”

“Stuck thinking about the past,” Richard replied. “Why are you worried about the future?”

“There’s two humans down here,” Mettaton explained. “The barrier could be broken any day now and I… now that it’s here I don’t know if I’m ready. Asgore is going to wage war and I just…”

“Yeah fuck Asgore,” Richard growled. “Piece of shit. Kills kids for fun.”

“He doesn’t enjoy what he does,” Mettaton assured. “But… I don’t want war. I want to go to the surface, soar above in the skies like a guiding star and give people hope again!”

“The people could use hope,” Richard conceded. “Trust me, you’d do a lot of good spreading hope.”

“But it’s just…” Mettaton sighed. “A lot. Now that it’s here.”

“It was always gonna be a lot,” Richard shrugged. “But you’ve gotten this far. Why would a bigger audience stop you now?”

“You’re right,” Mettaton seemed to smile. “I suppose the only way to fly is to jump. Anyways Richard, what of your past?”

“My infant sister died in my arms,” Richard replied with a vile casualness. “Keeps me up at night. She was murdered and I couldn’t save her.”

Mettaton and Flowey froze in shock.

“Richard what the actual fu-“ Flowey demanded.

“Young man…” Mettaton took a serious tone. “You have endured great hardship. One no human should have to endure.”

“Human?” Richard demanded.

“I will not take a soul of a kindred spirit,” Mettaton assured. “We are alike. We both seek to change the world in our own methods. I assume you want to change the world that killed her.”

“No seriously what the fu-“ Flowey demanded again.

He was interrupted once more, “I do. Cleanse it of filth. Purify it.”

“But what of you?” Mettaton inquired. “What of those that love you?”

*You think for a second.

*Lily… wasn’t going to save you.

*Jonathan brought you and him tea. He didn’t step in.

*George left before it happened.

*None of them were going to save you…

*No one…

“I have no one,” Richard conceded.

“Were you not traveling with another?” Mettaton inquired. “The two humans were traveling together.”

“They’re better off without me,” Richard shook his head solemnly.

“I don’t know if that’s true,” Mettaton shook his head. “Here…”

Mettaton slid over a business card.

“This is my business card,” Mettaton explained. “Should you be alive, contact me. We can tell the world what happened to your sister. Bring it to light.”

*You put Mettaton’s Business Line in your phone numbers.

*You won’t contact him before then though.

*You don’t wanna talk about it.

“You’re a good kid Richard,” Mettaton assured. “I hope when the barrier breaks we can light up the skies together. Bring your friend as well. Every good movie needs a shootout.”

Mettaton got up and left.

“Can I speak now?” Flowey demanded.

“No,” Richard replied.

*You finished what you could and left.

*You got Fancy Leftovers.

Fancy Leftovers - Fully restore everyone’s HP and TP. Really expensive. You think there’s gold flakes in this. 

Nothing left to do, Richard returned to the north most room, a singular cherry blossom tree danced in the wind as Flowey and Richard looked out from the balcony over the city. Richard set Flowey on the ledge beside him.

“Why did you want me to come here?” Richard inquired.

“This…” Flowey sighed. “This is where Clover died.”

Richard froze in place as Flowey continued.

“They were weak. I had to help them you know.” Flowey continued. “But… they never could beat Asgore. Or maybe they did. Maybe they overcame me and… I don’t know. But… you and them… you two can’t beat Asgore. You’re to unstable. They lack the brute strength. Even together…” 

Flowey pleaded. “Give me your soul. Please. For Clover at least! If you continue you both die! I can keep Clover safe! If Asgore kills you everyone… everyone dies. That Lily girl? Clover? That Paula girl? All of them. Dead. I know you don’t trust me but… you’d see what I do. Even if I went against our deal I know you’re strong enough to rebel against me. This ain’t even me manipulating you I mean that.”

“I…” Richard hesitated.

“Richard,” Flowey begged. “They killed me. The humans. Asgore will take his revenge. Please…”

Before Richard could answer a voice exclaimed, “Rick! What the hell are you doing out here?”

Ms. Holiday approached, glaring. “Or should I say Richard?”

Purity entered beside Ms. Holiday, walking right through her and stopping to lean against the tree. “She knows. Great.”

“Richard,” Ms. Holiday inquired, “Why are you doing this?”

“You’re not gonna just attack me?” Richard demanded.

“No,” Ms. Holiday assured. There was something… off about her smile. It seemed… disingenuous. “Besides reports from Snowdin say you show signs of mental instability. Something about a Riley?”

“How did you figure this out?” Richard inquired.

“A monster I’ve never met before comes home with my daughter with blood on his jacket?” Ms. Holiday demanded. “I’m no fool Richard. Monsters don’t bleed.”

Richard sighed and sat down. “I was told if I continued on this journey I could see Riley again.”

“Who’s Riley?” Ms. Holiday demanded. She approached slowly as she spoke.

“My baby sister,” Richard explained. “She… she died in my arms of alcohol poisoning.”

“You’ve been through a lot,” that disingenuous smile continued as she spoke. “To much. Do you even have a home to go back to?”

“No…” Richard shook his head. “I nearly died up there, and Lily and Jonathan and… they were all going to just… let him kill me.”

Ms. Holiday cradled Richard gently in her arms as he began to cry. “Shhhh… it’s OK.” She sneered, revealing her true intentions. “You… don’t have to do this anymore. You want Clover to be safe right? We only need the one soul.”

“What do you mean?” Richard inquired.

“Well this got interesting,” Purity interjected.

“I could get ANYTHING for that soul,” Ms. Holiday continued. “Enough to provide for an extra kid for that kid’s entire life. All I would need is your soul. I could even try to talk Asgore into breaking the barrier and exiting peacefully. No war. No death.”

“But Lily-“ Richard pleaded.

“Didn’t care about you,” Ms. Holiday continued. “She left you to die, right? And Riley’s dead. Clover is better off this way. Better off without you. The best thing you can do for Clover, is die.”

“Holy shit OK,” Purity interjected. “Richard I think we’re being played! I agree with what she’s saying but I don’t trust her with our soul!”

“But…” Richard protested. “How do I know that’s true?”

“You rather Asgore get your soul for free and kill Clover after?” Ms. Holiday demanded. “Come on… you can see Riley again. Just close your eyes.”

Purity sighed, “You know what. Better than Flowey. Let’s take it.”

“Tell Clover I loved them OK?” Richard requested. “And Lily and-“

“I will,” Ms. Holiday assured. “Just let it happen.”

There was only one option.

💛 I’m going to Riley.

Richard closed his eyes.

There was only darkness.

*You feel a sharp pain in your back.

4 damage.

There was only one option.

💛 I’m going to Riley.

4 damage.

4 damage.

4 damage.

*If you do not act now you are GOING TO DIE. 

There was only… one option.

💛 I’m going to Riley.

But the killing blow never came.

“Richard!” A voice screamed.

Combat initiated as Richard opened his eyes. Dess stood between Richard and Ms. Holiday. Noel behind the bat wielding girl.

“Stay away from him!” Dess screamed.

“Get out of my way!” Ms. Holiday screamed. “I have everything I could ever want in my grasp! Don’t ruin this for me!” Ms. Holiday raised her hand to cast a spell…

“Mom no!” Noel screamed.

“Noel stay back!” Dess screamed.

Noel rushed forward and…

*Noel protected Dess from the blow. 

Everything turned red.

*She hurt Noel.

*She hurt Noel.

*She hurt the baby.

*She hurt Riley.

*Purify.

*Purify!

*PURIFY!

Richard exploded into a blind rage as combat began.

*Skin her alive.

Richard chose to FIGHT, Dess doing the same.

Richard growled and snarled, foaming at the mouth in fury as he attacked the monster before him. He leapt at her and bit into her shoulder. Ms. Holiday pushed him off. He landed on all fours, growling like a rabid hound. Dess followed suit, swinging her bat right for Ms. Holiday’s chest. There was a loud thud as it collided with her ribs, leaving Ms. Holiday winded. Ms. Holiday roared and called down clouds over the duo that rained down blue and white snowflake spells at them. Richard, still badly wounded dashed about, evading them with ease as he closed the distance between him and his enemy. The last blue snowflakes passed harmlessly through his body.

*Strangle her.

Richard took a look at Dess’s skills.

Get Up! - Revive one KOed ally with low HP. 25% TP.

Kneecap - Deal average damage and make the next 3 enemy attacks 2 seconds shorter. 32% TP.

Richard chose to FIGHT as Dess tried to KNEECAP the enemy.

Large white crystals of snow sliced through the air like daggers, swaying as the fell. A harsh wind blew in from the right, making it harder to move and dodge in that direction. However the winds could not deter the duo. Richard roared and slammed his fist into Ms. Holiday’s gut. The woman staggered back as she threw Richard off. Dess raised her bat and broke her stance by hitting her in the knee. Ms. Holiday countered, striking Richard with a blast of snow from her palm. Richard fell unconscious on the ground.

“Richard!” Dess cried.

Dess used GET UP! 

“Come on you’re not dying here!” Dess demanded forcing Richard back on his feet. “You have to get back to Lily! Toxic or not, you care about each other!”

Richard gasped for air as he prepares for the next attack.

The battle raged on like this until Ms. Holiday fell to her knees. 

Before Richard could decide whether or not to finish the job, Dess grabbed him. “We’re leaving! Move!”

Dess sprinted away, Richard’s hand in one arm, an unconscious Noel in the other.

“Dess!” Ms. Holiday cried.

“Being a bitch I could tolerate,” Dess growled. “But I’ll keep Noel safe. Even from you you sociopath!”

Dess and Richard fled.

Ms. Holiday growled. “Ungrateful brats…”

She took out her phone, and spoke into it. “Hello? Patch me through to Undyne. I know where the humans are. There’s still a reward right?”

Dess kicked the door in to her room. “Clover wake up we have to go!”

“Huh wha?” Clover demanded, rolling over. “Ugh. Tell Starlo I want five more minutes.”

“My mom tried to kill Richard!” Dess screamed. “She hit Noel! We have to go!”

“What?” Clover snapped awake at the news. “She hit Noel? What the…”

“She attacked Dess too!” Richard added.

“Did she throw the first punch?” Dess demanded.

Purity appeared to enter. He demanded, “Lie. That was an assisted suicide attempt. They can’t know that.”

“Yes,” Richard lied. “She just… rushed me and stabbed me.”

Dess glared, “Really? No attempt manipulation? She’s always been a bit emotionally abusive to be honest. Leaving was a long time coming.”

“Nope!” Richard lied. “Just stab stab stab!”

Dess glared at Richard and sighed. “We don’t have time for this. We have to go. You two were going through gray doors right? We find one, we get out, and when we end up back here, we go to Marlet. I’m sorry but you two have to go just a little further.”

“How do we even know we’ll get back here?” Richard inquired.

“You guys keep ending up in this world right?” Dess inquired. “It’s like it’s some sort of hub. We’ll get back. I just… I have to get Noel somewhere safe. She’s not safe with mom. Probably never was.”

“So you’re coming with us?” Clover inquired.

“Where else can I go?” Dess demanded. “Any ideas? No? Then yes. I’m coming along. If that’s OK.”

Richard looked Dess dead in the eye. He stated darkly. “Underage drinking bad.”

“…why would I disagree with that?” Dess demanded. “I ain’t done it. I’m not gonna.”

“OK she’s clean let’s go,” Richard nodded.

“Sorry he’s-“ Clover apologized.

“With what he’s dealt with I don’t blame him,” Dess shrugged. “But we. Have. To. Go!”

The trio dashed outside, Dess declaring. “We have to find the nearest gray door. Know of any?”

Time seemed to freeze, Richard could hear Gaster’s voice. “You have ended up quite off course haven't you boy? Your new ally, your new friend is an… unorthodox choice for a long term party member. However, I can sense a strong bond between you three. I will assist you by placing the requisite transport within the MTT resort. However, reaching it is up to you.”

“The resort!” Richard declared as time resumed. “It’s there! Go go go!”

As the three turned towards the elevator into the resort the sound of clanging metal filled the air. A knight clad in stainless steel approached, growling. “Humans…”

Undyne stood before the group, death in her eyes. “Seven… seven human souls and King Asgore-“

“Impure scum!” Richaed snapped back. “Child murderers and beaters. All of you! Get the FUCK out of our way! Now!”

Undyne was frozen before sneering under her helmet. “Now THAT’S what I like to hear! A human with some real gusto! You two take the cowboy!”

The Royal Guards of Snowdin blocked the only escape. Dess drew her bat, “Clover and I got these! Just… hold on!”

“The hooded boy’s mine!” Undyne sneered.

Richard initiated combat alone.

*For Riley.

Richard chose to FIGHT, charging down Undyne with reckless abandonment. Undyne sliced with her spear which Richard sidestepped before tackling her in the gut. Undyne was set off balance for a moment before collecting herself. 

Richard’s soul was turned green by Undyne’s attack however. She tossed him a spear with which to defend himself. “There is no escape boy! Just you and me!”

“Oh don’t let me miss out on the fun!” A voice declared.

*You feel vines wrap around your arm.

*Flowey rejoined the party!… again.

*He still won’t take hits for you. 

“What are you doing here?” Richard demanded.

“I’m not letting her touch my prey!” Flowey retorted. 

“You’re a piece of shit,” Richard chuckled shaking his head.

“Like you’re any better,” Flowey teased.

“Enough chatter!” Undyne declared. “This is the day the barrier breaks!”

*Undyne shatters the pavement as she stomps the ground impatiently.

Undyne attacked with a barrage of white and yellow arrows that Richard deflected with the spear. 

“A tough one aren’t we?” Undyne mocked. “Not even Hotland could stop me, so why would you?”

Richard and Flowey countered, pellets barraging Undyne as she blocked with her arms. Richard landed a nasty kick to her ribs that left her winded.

*She must be tired from the heat. Keep attacking.

The next attack was similar to the first, but spears appeared from below as Richard blocked the magical arrows. He had to move and manage the arrows at the same time, taking two in the back. Richard snarled and countered with a single mightly blow to Undyne’s helmet that Sl pushed her back, cracking it.

Richard BRUTALIZED.

*Undyne would suplex a boulder, but there are none around. She suplexes a bench but it’s just not the same. 

The battle ragged on like this until Undyne’s helmet shattered. She fell to her knees, panting, “I won’t… let you… get away! We have been trapped here for generations! I have to free us! Break the barrier! Win our war! The humans must pay for-“

Richard screamed, “You wanna see what it looks like when a human dies so FUCKING BADLY?”

Richard’a soul began to glow and shake. “Fine! I’LL SHOW YOU!”

*Richard projected a memory…

Undyne starred at Richard in abject horror. She didn’t know what to say. What could she say to what she had seen?

“Human…” Undyne closed her eyes solemnly, “Just… just go…”

Combat stopped as the dogs of the Royal Guard ran with their tails tucked between their legs. Noel stirred from her slumber. “Dess? Where’s mom?”

“Mom is a bad person we’re going,” Dess replied, picking Noel back up.

Clover and Dess couldn’t see Richard and Flowey as they spoke. “Don’t tell Clover I was here aight?” Flowey demanded before disappearing into the pavement.

“You OK bro?” Clover inquired holstering their pistol.

“I’m fine,” Richard lied. “Let’s go.”

The trio began to walk through the resort, Dess still carrying Noel as the tension seemed to have left the air for a time.

“Did mom try to hurt you?” Noel asked Richard.

“I mean she had a point,” Richard sighed. “Lily was going to let me die. What am I even going to get home to?”

“Hey hey,” Dess demanded. “No. Don’t think like that. Toxic or not, Lily loved you. I don’t know if you can or should mend things with her, but if you’re going to…”

“We’ll help you,” Clover assured. “Besides… I… I need you. You’re my brother. We can get through this. Just one or two doors, we go to Marlet and we just… something. Besides Marlet is family to me too in a way. I want my big sister to meet my brother. You know?”

“They’re lying to keep us going,” Purity interjected. “Just fake it for now.”

“OK,” Richard sighed. “OK… I can do this.”

*You feel like crying.

*Dess is looking at you.

*You can tell she has something to say, but she won’t say it in front of Clover and Noel.

The four kept moving, Noel inquired. “Dess? Where are we going?”

“We’re going to get away from the guard,” Dess explained. “Then we’re going to Marlet’s.”

“Pancakes everyday!” Noel exclaimed.

“Yeah that’s it!” Clover added. “Try their coffee it’s pretty good!”

“Hey speaking of how did you get Undyne to stop?” Dess inquired.

Richard shrugged. “I just… my soul thing started to glow and… I think I showed her something?”

“I mean I read Ceroba’s memories when we-“ Clover cut themselves off. “Look the point is my soul can rarely read memories related to… I don’t know one sense’s of justice? I don’t see why yellow souls like ours couldn’t do the inverse and project such memories to others.”

“I think they’re hiding something about their family,” Purity commented. “They’re always evasive about how they met Ceroba, Starlo, and Marlet. I don’t trust it.”

The three entered the hotel hallway and found one of the doors replaced with a gray door.

“Let’s go guys,” Richard declared.

“You two sure about this?” Clover inquired.

“Ms. Holiday is impure,” Richard replied. “She’s dangerous.”

“What’s impure?” Noel inquired.

“Any who do drugs or harm a child are impure and the world must be purified,” Richard replied. 

“Is that why you called Undyne impure?” Dess inquired.

There was yelling down the hall. “The humans must be close! Don’t let them escape!”

“Yes it is!” Richard exclaimed. “But we gotta go!”

The trio jumped through the door and-

End of Section 3.5

Chapter Text

Richard was in combat with Sans out of the gate. Richard lunges for the Skelton who dodged, and began to taunt. “Is that all you got you-“

Sans took a shot in the back. Clover screamed, “Impure filth! Stay away from him!”

Sans snarled, “This isn’t over.” Everything went dark for a second, and he was gone.

“Are you two alright?” Papyrus inquired. “There is no need for violence! I am not to apprehend you unless traps fail! So you may for now proceed-“

Clover fired off a round into the air. “Don’t push your luck! We are going!”

“Wait!” Papyrus demanded. “I must know your names for my report.”

“Purity,” Purity replied.

“Clover,” Clover added. “Now leave us alone, or else.”

Clover and Purity left, leaving Papyrus to flip through some reports before taking out his phone. “Hello Marlet. There is an inconsistency in your reports. Clover has been spotted alive. Where? Here in Snowdin why do you- hello? Hello?”

Papyrus hung up, “How odd.”

“So Sans is an impure,” Purity growled. “Great. Just fucking marvelous. His supplies were useful.”

“Now hold on,” Clover retorted. “That Sans was impure yes but… this place is different. It could be a different Sans.”

“We still have to purify this world,” Purity growled. “Cleanse it. That guard was going to kill us.”

“Yeah but he was expecting it,” Clover reminded. “Let’s see if we can get the drop on him later.”

“Well what about the others?” Purity demanded.

“We sentence them as they deserve,” Clover replied.

“Maybe we deserve it too,” Richard interjected. “I… I’m so tired… we killed kids, man. We’re impure. We have to be purified and… I can’t…”

“Then don’t,” Purity growled. “Keep quiet and keep out of my way.”

Clover snapped his fingers, “Dude. Focus. We gotta keep going.”

There was a roar and Snowy attacked, the duo turned him into dust in an instant.

“At least they make themselves to find,” Purity sneered.

Clover sighed. “That one looked… young.”

“Having second thoughts?” Purity demanded.

“No just…” Clover shook their head. “These… memories of something. I feel like I’m so close to knowing something important happened.”

“What’s important is we make sure they don’t kill anyone else,” Purity growled.

“You’re right,” Clover sighed. “Let’s go, OK?”

As the two proceeded, they slaughtered any monsters in their path with ease, leaving only dust in their wake, mixed into the snow. The forest was eerily silent, until a voice spoke up, “Hey! Don’t move!”

The two froze as Doggo appeared from his station. “I can only see things if they move.”

“Royal guard?” Richard demanded.

“Yes I-“ Doggo explained.

Combat initiated, and the hound stood no chance.

Clover bolstered their pistol after the battle. They shook their head. “It… it doesn’t feel like a fight anymore does it?”

“What do you mean?” Purity demanded.

“It feels more like,” Clover sighed. “An execution. I dunno.” There was a tense silence before Clover inquired, “Are we… really doing the right thing?”

“They killed you,” Purity reminded. “And Riley. And then was George’s uncle which is… yikes. Should have killed him too. It would have sent a goddamn message.”

“What if it’s not that simple?” Clover inquired.

“I mean I know it is for Riley,” Purity shrugged. “If we don’t kill them, those who come after us die. Again. They. Killed. You. They. Will. Do. So. Again.”

“That's not fully-“ Clover cut themself off. “Sorry I just… I don’t wanna do this right now it’s just… this doesn’t feel… right. To me.”

“Hey you’re the younger one I purify to protect people like you,” Purity shrugged. “You don’t have to fight for a bit. It’s OK.”

“I think he’s right for the record,” Richard whispered.

“He’s not but if we hurt them we’re impure.” Purity replies.

“Ness and Paula,” Richard reminded.

“We will handle that later,” Purity growled.

*Clover has become a non combatant. They will no longer assist you in combat.

The duo carried on, running into Sans, who greeted them. “Hey guys.”

“You know why we’re here,” Purity growled.

“To murder innocent people?” Sans mocked.

Clover starred silently with a grim expression.

“Just… my shop is open. No I’m not the same Sans and… Richard… stop this.” Sans pleaded. “Would Lily want this?”

“Did I fucking ask?” Purity growled

Sans fell silent.

Richard chose to talk to Sans.

Sans sighed, “Look you’ve been through some stuff… but this to far, man. You’ve betrayed your own ideas. It’s no to late change kid. You-“

“I will build a path to Riley on their corpses if I must,” Purity snarled.

Sans fell silent with eyes empty.

Purity bought supplies from Sans before asking questions like he always did.

Purity asked ABOUT YOURSELF.

“I don’t have anything I wish to share,” Sans growled.

Purity asked about OTHER SANSES.

“Yeah that one sucks,” Sans replied. Sans forced a smile. “That doesn’t mean he has to die you know. You… come on. It’s another me. Can’t let him go as a favor to your old pal?”

Purity said nothing and glared.

“Worth a shot,” Sans sighed.

Purity asked about OTHER ALLIES.

“You may make allies who only join for a bit,” Sans replied. “But they may not like what you’re doing or want to use other equipment. Keep that in mind. Especially the first one.”

Richard asked about CAN YOU JUMP WORLDS AT WILL?

“That’s not your business,” Sans glared.

With that the duo carried on. Sans still tossed Purity a phone adding, “Not that you two have anyone to call huh?”

Richard sighed, “Yeah… cause someone’s bright idea is to kill anyone in our way.”

“I didn’t ask,” Purity growled.

“Can we just go?” Clover pleaded solemnly.

Purity nodded, “Yeah…”

Purity slaughtered any monsters in their way alone before reaching the maze to see Underfell Papyrus and Sans awaiting them.

“I am telling you he’s not even gonna play along,” Sans growled. “Let’s just ice the kids and-“

Purity didn’t even respond when they saw him and froze. He merely charged, striking at Sans with reckless abandon.

Sans dodged, sneering. “Now then. Let’s have some real fun.”

“Brother we have other puzzles to try!” Papyrus reminded interrupting the battle.

“Fine,” Sans growled. “Maybe it’ll be fun to watch him squirm. What about the cowboy? He’s not fighting.”

“I’ll crack your skull like an egg,” Purity snarled.

“Ah well,” Sans chuckled. His eyes went dark. “Just makes for easier prey.”

Sans and Papyrus disappeared leaving Puritu and Clover alone as the battle ended due to Sans taking a shortcut.

“Do you have to talk like that?” Clover inquired.

“Like what?” Purity demanded.

“So… angry.” Clover sighed. “You could at least pretend not to enjoy it!”

“You don’t?” Purity demanded. “Justice at our fingertips, any filth destroyed with a flick of a wrist? You find no pleasure in that? I’m making a world where no one can hurt Riley or you again?”

Clover said nothing.

“That’s what I thought,” Purity sneered before the duo carried on.

The slaughter continued, Purity stopping briefly to steal some nice cream. Clover saw the note.

Richard commented. “We have to stop. Please…”

Purity said nothing and glared. Richard continued, “I… I want to see Riley again. If this is the only way to stop there’s… there’s other ways.”

Purity chuckled, “I suppose that would be an option.”

“What’s an option?” Clover inquired. “Please don’t do anything-“

“Mind your damn business,” Purity growled.

The next puzzle awaited, simply an envelope sitting on the ground. Marlet ignored it and spoke directly to the skeletal brothers. Marlet appeared angry, demanding, “I don’t care if “they’ve changed” if Clover is here tell me where they are!”

“You don’t understand!” Papyrus pleaded. “They’re not like your reports at all! They’re not nice or cowardly. They’re traveling with a known killer!”

“I’m sure there’s a reasonable explaintion,” Marlet retorted. “Highly doubt that given what you two did in Snowdin they have much choice.”

“Don’t press your luck,” Sans growled.

“You’re one to talk about luck running out,” Marlet snapped back. “I’m sure Starlo and Ceroba would love to know where you are. Get even.”

“Tch,” Sans grunted. “Have it your way. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.”

The two skeletons left, leaving Marlet with the duo. Marlet turned to see the duo and rushed to hug Clover. “Clover!” She exclaimed happily.

“Shit shit shit!” Richard screamed. “We don’t know her! Don’t let her near them!”

Combat initiated suddenly, Purity striking suddenly, wounding Marlet. Clover stepped between them declaring, “Hey! Stop! She’s my friend!”

Combat ceased as Marlet sat on the ground winded. Clover rushed over to her, helping her up. “You OK Marlet?”

Malret assured, “Yeah. Yeah. I’m OK. I’m OK. What was that about?”

“What WAS that about?” Clover demanded.

“Uhhh,” Purity snarkily retorted. “A monster rushed you down? How else am I supposed to take that?”

“With open arms?” Clover retorted. “Christ Purity… just… can you just not.”

Purity groaned, “Fine. Whatever. One more pure person can’t hurt.”

*Marlet joined your party.

The trio moved on to the forest black as night.

“I can’t see!” Clover called out.

“You’ll need to grab that torch Purity,” Marlet added.

Purity did so and carried on before being jumped by the Feral Snowdrake, which he slaughtered with Marlet’s help. The dust mixed into the snow Marlet starred at Purity mortified by his actions.

“Why did you do that!?!” She demanded. “They didn’t have to die!”

Clover simply looked away and said nothing in shame as Purity retorted. “They were a threat to Clover. I purified it! The threat is gone! That’s what I do!”

“…I’m not helping with this,” Marlet sighed. “If that’s what you’re doing do it yourself. I’ll keep Clover safe but…”

*Marlet has become a non combatant.

Marlet spotted the ladder piece on the ground and picked it up. “This looks important.”

“Yeah yeah,” Purity brushed off her input. “Let’s go already.”

The trio proceeded until finding the Cabin, where Purity knocked on the door.

“Who’s there?” A voice on the inside demanded. “You better not be here to terrorize us again you bonehead!”

“You mean Sans?” Marlet inquired. “Yeah he’s kinda lost it huh? He’s attacked us.”

“Multiple times,” Clover added.

“Well,” the voice replied. “Guess the enemy do my enemy is my friend. Why don’t y’all come on in. It’s dangerous out there. But… I heard three sets of footsteps who’s the third?”

“Purity,” Clover replied. “He’s…”

“I have no quarrel with those who aren’t impure,” Purity assured. “Let’s go.”

“Come on in!” The speaker offered.

The trio entered, greeted by some rabbit monsters. One stared directly at Marlet. The purple rabbit glared. “Get out.”

“What?” Clover asked.

“The Royal Guard. Leave.” The rabbit demanded.

“I quit being a Royal Guard a while ago,” Marlet assured. “I promise I’m not one of them.”

“I said leave,” the rabbit snarled. “You killed an innocent child.

“I didn’t kill Clo-“ Marlet began to explain.

Purity charged suddenly.

Combat initiated.

“Richard stop it!” Clover demanded, stepping between the two. “It’s not what you all think! I can explain! Come on… bro?”

Purity backed down and leaned against the wall. He snarled at Marlet, “Thin ice bird.”

“If this Clover is like me,” Clover explained. “Clover gave up their soul of their own free will. Right?”

Marlet nodded, “Yeah I didn’t kill them.”

Purity fell silent for a few seconds and declared, “Fine. I’m to tired for this shit.”

“If you kids need to sleep there’s beds upstairs,” Q.B. offered.

“That would be nice,” Clover sighed. “I’m going to bed.”

Clover went upstairs, Purity not far behind. He glared at Marlet. “I don’t trust you. If you’re an impure, I won’t hesitate.”

With that Purity left. Marlet sighed and sat on the couch, face buried in her wings.

“So that… aggressive kid doesn’t seem like the best influence.” Q.B. commented.

“I know,” Marlet agreed. “He… I don’t know, he’s so aggressive. I’ll have to talk to Clover before this gets any worse…”

Richard sat by Purity, who remained fronting as the two sat on the bed. Richard sighed, “OK. Can we talk?”

“I’m you we have no choice,” Purity reminded.

“OK yeah you’re me my repressed anger and hatred and blah blah blah,” Richard groaned. “Look. I… I think we should kill ourselves. Myself. It’s time for me to die.”

“How do you figure?” Purity demanded. “We’re purifying world after world. We can keep purifying and make a pure universe, no, sorry. Pure multiverse. We’re growing stronger. Nothing can stop us at this rate and then we can-“

“WE’RE IMPURE YOU BRAINDEAD SACK OF SHIT!” Richard screamed. “WE KILLED TWO KIDS! WE’RE TWICE AS BAD AS HER! WE’RE NEVER GOING TO SEE RILEY AGAIN! BECAUSE OF YOU! I AM NOT BECOMING ANYMORE IMPURE! HOPE YOU’RE READY TO SEE HELL YOU SACK OF SHIT! LET’S GO!”

Richard grabbed Purity by the neck. Purity tried to push him away to no avail. Couldn’t push away someone who was in his head. Rather, he was in Richard’s head which meant-

There was a flash of red and Purity was choking himself. Always had been. He fell to the ground coughing and wheezing.

*Your neck hurts.

*Richard can’t front again if he does…

*You need to sleep.

Purity awoke after his slumber to bruises around his neck. He staggered out of bed, gasping for air.

*Your neck is bruised.

*It hurts. Badly.

*…

*Not like it’s the first time you nearly died.

*You remember the rain.

*It was a downpour.

*Jonathan brought you and him tea.

*He said he was sorry.

*The man knew you were the vigilante.

*He made you an offer.

*Work for him. He said “you’re clearly good at intimidating people.”

*You refused.

*You threw the tea in his face and…

*You tried.

*You tried so hard.

*You were fronting at the time.

*And you lost.

*…you’re stronger now.

*So much stronger.

*This time…

*YOU WILL SKIN HIM ALIVE.

Purity got up and went downstairs.

Clover was already there.

“What’s the plan?” Purity inquired.

“I don’t know I just got up,” Clover replied. “Marlet?”

“We need to rebuild the ladder out,” Marlet explained. “That’s the only way forward.”

“Let’s go,” Purity declared.

The other two didn’t protest. There was a tension in the silence as Richard killed the Feral Snowdrakes. Upon grabbing the last ladder piece Sans attacked as before.

“Richard look out!” Clover cried.

Purity ducked under some bones and ran away, reaching the cabin where Sans tried to speak. “Well well-“

Combat initiated instantly. Purity lunged for Sans. Sans mocked, “Still too slow! You’ll never-“

Purity struck once more, this time landing a hit.

“Fuck this!” Sans cried before disappearing.

“Shit he was to fast!” Q.B. declared as she approached. “Are you three OK?”

“Yeah we’re OK,” Marlet assured. “Clover are you OK?”

“Yeah,” Clover assured. “I’m good.”

“Let’s go,” Purity growled. “We can’t let him get away!”

The trio went to the ladder where once more the Feral Chilldrake attacked. It was slaughtered with ease.

“Was that really needed?” Q.B. inquired.

“They all must be purified,” Richard growled. “Unless you want a bunch of killers running around.”

“Yeah well I can think of a few,” Clover interjected.

“We will handle all the impure,” Purity assured.

“All of them,” Richard growled.

“I’m going to…” Q.B. turned to leave. “Just… go.”

Q.B. left.

“You really don’t have to do this,” Marlet pleaded.

Purity said nothing and the duo carried on, much like before Sans greeted them.

“Impure,” Purity growled. He was ready to attack. He lunged, only for Sans to warp out of the way.

“You’ve been busy huh?” Sans demanded. “How many lives have you taken?”

“Less than you,” Purity growled.

“Yeah but I kill to get stronger,” Sans snarled. “You kill for pleasure.”

“Leave him alone!” Clover demanded drawing their gun.

“Oh is the little outlaw gonna open fire?” Sans mocked. “Like what, you think you’re some sorta sheriff? You’re just another bloodthirsty desperado.”

“Leave them alone!” Marlet demanded.

“Oh like I’m scared of some feather-brained turncoat,” Sans mocked. “Hey Marlet…” Sans’s eyes went dark. “How’s the Fiesty Five?”

“Enough!” Purity screamed. “Are you two with me or not!?!”

“At least three on one is more fun!” Sans added.

“…yeah.” Clover conceded. “He has to be stopped.”

“I’ll protect you Clover,” Marlet added.

*Marlet and Clover rejoined the party as combatants!

Combat initiated.

*For Riley.

The trio slaughtered Sans with ease, the skeleton giving a mocking laugh. “You think… killing me… changes anything? I know that smile. Both of you have it. You humans love this don’t you? Your revel in it. Go ahead. Prove me ri-“

Clover unloaded on Sans, finishing the job before falling into the snow and crying.

“Hey hey!” Marley pleaded rushing over to comfort Clover. “It’s OK. It’s OK. You did had to do. It’s OK…”

Clover sobbed into Marlet’s arms. Marlet requested, “They… may need a minute can you make sure things are safe up ahead?”

Purity nodded, growing, “You so much as hurt a hair on their head…”

“Please…” Clover begged.

“Fine,” Purity snarled. “I’ll be ahead.”

Marlet tried to comfort Clover as Purity walked away. “Clover you didn’t have any choice you-“

“Let go of me!” Clover screamed as soon as Purity had left, shoving Marlet away.

“Clover what’s wrong?” Marlet demanded. “Is it Purity? We can talk to him or-“

“You FUCKING KILLED ME!” Clover screamed! “The more I’ve killed! The more I’ve remembered!”

“Clover that’s not true,” Marlet pleaded. “Please calm down. I didn’t even kill my Clover! You’re a different Clover anyways? I think?”

“Oh but I can imagine what you did to them,” Clover explained. They pulled their gun. “I went through the underground with Flowey four times. Four. The first, I didn’t take a life. Not until I reached my world’s you. You killed me. Again. And again. And again… and the more I’ve killed the more my memories have come back in waves.”

“But you’re here now,” Marlet pleaded. “It’s OK. It’s-“

“You were willing to kill me over and over! Timeline after timeline! Flowey got impatient. RESET me to start. I slaughtered everything in my way. Maybe on some level I remembered. Maybe on some level I was scared. Must have been. But then… you were my final obstacle. I killed you. I killed that flower. I killed Asgore and I won… but it wasn’t right. I thought it wasn’t right so I went back. I killed some in self defense that third time. Flowey sent me back again. Finally, I did things what I thought was the right way. No killing. Facing Ceroba, and surrendering my soul for monster kind. But no… all I remember now is my first try. Where you were willing to kill me. Again. And again. And again… how many times before Flowey gave up? Richard, Purity, or whatever the fuck he’s called. He’s right. The world must be purified. I know you can become impure. Leave. Now. Or I’ll have to purify you as well.”

“Clover please I-“ Marlet begged crying.

“LEAVE!” Clover screamed firing a warning shot.

Without another words Marlet flew up away. Clover holstered their gun. They took a familiar stance now, the same they took when they slaughtered everyone in their second journey through the underground way back when.

*Marlet left the party…

*…good riddance.

With that, Clover went to catch up with Purity.

Purity greeted Clover, “Where’s the bird?”

Clover gave no response.

“So I was right then?” Purity demanded.

Clover nodded silently.

“Eh never trust the pigs,” Purity shrugged. “They’re all crooked anywho.”

The duo carried on to see Papyrus at the next puzzle, arguing with Red.

“I gave you an order,” Red growled. “Stand aside. Now.”

“You can’t do this!” Papyrus pleaded. “They’re just scared kids, Red. If we can just talk to them-“

“They’ve slaughtered everything in their path!” Red snapped back. “Don’t tell me you don’t see the dust in the air!”

“They’re scared Red!” Papyrus retorted. “How else can we expect them to react when everything is like this? Of course they’d fight back! What do I deserve to die for what Sans made me do?”

“Stand. Aside.” Red growled drawing her blade.

“Please,” Papyrus begged. “If I can just… talk to them. There’s good in them, has to be. If we show them they don’t have to be scared anymore they’ll stop! I’m sure of it!”

Purity and Clover approached.

Combat initiated.

Papyrus stood with his back turned to the duo.

*His guard is down.

They could have spared Papyrus then and there but-

Clover shot the skeleton in the back.

“…I’m sorry.” Papyrus wheezed out as he fell to his knees. “Please… I know you're scared but it’s not to late to change. It’s never too late to change. Please…”

Papyrus turned to dust…

“You bastards!” Red screamed, charging into combat with her blade drawn. “He was no threat to you!”

*For Riley.

Purity and Clover lunges for Red. Two metal sentinels burst from the dusty snow, firing off blue and orange waves in addition to her fireballs. Richard lunges through an orange wave to strike at Red, grazing her face and drawing blood as she got shot in the arm.

*Embers spark around her hands.

“He believed in you so much!” Red continued. “Why would you do this? Why are you doing any of this?”

Red threw out the spinning saw blades, assisted by orange balls of fire and waves of blue magic from the sentinels. Richard and Clover were burned by the flames, trying to evade the blade they were blasted by the waves. Clover took a blow of energy and coughed up blood.

Purity let out a scream and took between Red and Clover as Clover fired around their ally.

Richard PROTECTS.

“How many have you killed for what?” Red demanded. “For WHAT?”

*For Riley.

Red swung wildly at Richard, who evaded the blows one slice drawing a little blood from his cheek but not doing any real harm before he countered with a headbutt. Red staggered back, allowing Clover to take aim and land a Percise Shot breaking her guard.

“You call it purifying,” Red snarled. “But it’s just sadistic slaughter. Nothing more. I’m done talking. You have to be stopped. For what it’s worth, I’m sorry.”

The battle raged on until Red fell, defeated. She gripped her blade, trembling. “No… no you can’t…”

Red gave off a final weak attack that Purity evaded with ease. Red gasped for air, “I won’t let you… so many people… monsters… everyone. I see that blood. I know it’s not yours… I can’t… no…”

Red turned to dust…

Clover holstered their gun. They groaned, “What a day.”

“You’re telling me,” Purity sighed. “Ready to go?”

Clover nodded. “Guess so.”

As the duo left Purity examined the cloak on the ground.

*It could still be of use. There’s bullets in the pockets.

*You got Burning Bullets and Crimson Cloak.

The duo carried on to the next puzzle, but with Papyrus gone the tile puzzle was never activated. So they carried on past it in silence. Next up was the dog hiding. Lesser dog stood no chance.

“…was that even impure?” Clover demanded.

“No but we are,” Richard interjected.

“Quiet you,” Purity growled before responding to Clover. “He was complicit at best. He was a Royal Guard. That’s impure enough.”

“I mean a bystander to a crime who does nothing is complicit I guess?” Clover sighed. “All monsters are complicit huh?”

“Now you’re getting it!” Purity exclaimed. “Let’s go.”

The next puzzle was same as before. They fell once more and Ralsei smoked his blunt like he had many times before.

Purity snarled but Clover interjected, “Wait. Let me try something.”

Clover fired a round at Ralsei who disappeared before the bullet landed.

“Well it was worth trying something new,” Purity shrugged.

The two carried on. They ran into Sans not to far ahead. He didn’t say much. Just sighed, “I had to watch that.”

“Oh please not like your actual brother is Royal Guard,” Purity assured. “He’s not an impure.”

Sans said nothing for a moment and sighed, “…let’s just get to business.”

The slaughter continued after the duo resupplied. There was no one to greet the trio in Glyde’s cave. There was a note. “I’m leaving. The humans are coming and I don’t wanna be here when they arrive. - Glyde.”

“Got away,” Purity growled before the duo carried on.

The trio carried on to see Q.B. talking to Greater Dog. “Yeah you’re not so bad with that damn collar off. Why did you remove it?”

“Marlet ripped it off me suddenly and told me to evacuate everyone,” Greater Dog replied. “That reminds me you should go. The humans-“

Combat initiated.

Greater Dog was offering MERCY out of the gate.

One blow was all it took. No last words, just dust.

“WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT!?” Q.B. demanded. “WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?”

“All Royal Guards are impure,” Purity growled. “If you’ll excuse us.”

“You’re monsters,” Q.B. gasped out.

“Don’t push your luck,” Clover growled. “You’re complicit at best.”

Q.B. fell silent.

Purity sneered. “That’s what we thought. We’re leaving now.”

The duo proceeded into the bridge. There was no traps or gauntlet. Only that blue bird. Marlet blocked the way.

“Clover please,” Marlet pleaded. “Stop this…”

“We’ve already said all here is to say,” Clover growled. “Stand aside. I don’t want to hurt you…”

“They don’t speak for me,” Purity sneered. “We will purify everyone in our path. Leave our path, or die like the rest.”

“…then you leave me no choice. I’m sorry, but you can’t… I can’t let this continue. To many innocent people will… I’m sorry.” Marlet sighed sadly.

Marlet flew above the bridge and slammed down on it, shattering it. The duo fell down into the snow below, Marlet flew down from above, dropping bowling balls on Richard midair which he evaded. She fired feathers at him from all directions, the flying feathers like daggers that Richard tried to evade, getting sliced on his arms and legs, drawing blood. Meteors fell leaving trails of fire that burned Richard’s skin. These attacks were mixed together in a gauntlet of death before Richard and Clover arrived at the bottom of the ravine.

Purity got up, still fronting. Clover has their gun at the ready, watching the skies. “She’s out there. Watching us. You OK?”

Purity growled, “Yeah. Come on. We have some fathers to pluck.”

The two carried on. They ran into Sans who greeted them silently. When Purity tried to talk, Sans merely growled. “There’s nothing left for us to talk about here.”

So the duo carried on to see Marlet standing before the gray door. She greeted them, “So… you go through these doors, slaughter everyone your path, and move on?”

“We purify a world of filth and proceed.” Purity corrected. “Where we are next needed.”

“Do you really think this is right?” Marlet demanded. “Look at yourselves. Please… you don’t have to do this. You two have every right to hate me but… it’s not to late for you two change. Clover… the other you wasn’t like this. You’re not like this. Please, stop this.”

Combat initiated.

*Marlet is SPARING you.

Purity and Clover chose to FIGHT, wounding Marlet. She blocked the bullets with her wings but was sent staggering by a brutal blow to the stomach by Purity.

“I’m sorry,” Marlet sighed. “But you two will make every world you enter worse wether you realize it or not. I have to stop you.”

Marlet drew Red’s sword. She declared, “Royal Guard training includes weapon use. With Red… gone… I can her blade to use where she could not.”

*For Riley.

Feathers rained down from above as Marlet attacked, the feathers sliced into the snow, before the bluebird lunged with the blade, slicing between Richard and Clover who both sidestepped the attack. Clover shot Marlet in the back, followed by Richard following up with with a drop kick. Marlet squawked in pain and flew back into the air.

She sliced the box apart, before striking with rotating exploding of feathers that sliced the duo to ribbons. Purity and Clover however, did not flinch. Purity lunged forward as Clover took aim, one eye closed. Purity leapt into the air and grabbed Marlet, slamming her into the ground. Clover took this opportunity, making a slow exhale before they fired a Precise Shot, ruining Marlet’s leather armor.

The battle raged on like this until Purity screamed and charged Marlet, grabbing her by the wings and crushing them in his grip, BRUTALIZING her. Marlet fell to the ground, defeated, panting for breathe in her final moments.

“All of this,” Marlet demanded. “And for what? You slaughter and pillage and to what end? Do you truly think you’re making these worlds a better place with this? With this carnage? Violence is a cycle. You’re just perpetuating it. Clover…” Marlet’s voice shook as she gave her last words. “I expected better… of you…”

Marlet turned to dust.

*Your LOVE increased!

Clover lowered their gun and said nothing.

Purity inquired, “You alright?”

“Yeah yeah,” Clover sighed. “It’s just…”

“I know it’s hard,” Purity sighed. “But it has to be done.”

“You’re right,” Clover nodded. “After all, they killed all the kids that came before us. They all deserve to die for their crimes.”

Purity nodded as the two approached the door, jumped in and-

END OF SECTION THREE.

Chapter Text

Purity awoke on the bank of a river. A man shrouded in darkness stood before him, looking about twice his size.

Purity spat blood.

*You're stronger now.

*Make an example of him.

Combat initiated.

*Emperor looms as if he blocks out the Heavens.

Purity chose to FIGHT, lunging for the figure known as Emperor. He leapt at Emperor, clawing his arms and drawing blood. Emperor pushed him off and countered with a barrage of fists that Purity weaved between. Sidestepping an uppercut, ducking under a haymaker, and leaping back to create distance between the two.

*The downpour is deafening.

Purity lunged, biting into Emperor’s shoulder tooth and nail before being thrown back. Emperor put on some brass knuckles, one orange, one blue. He launched a fury of rapid fists in these colors, the blue attacks harmlessly passed through Purity as he stood still.

*The Root of all Evil.

Purity went to strike once more, only to be countered and dealt a horrid blow to his face.

Purity was left on one HP.

*Not… yet.

Purity had only one option under his act menu.

*AVENGE - For Riley. Lethal. 

Purity AVENGED and-

Purity snapped awake swinging wildly at the air in Snowdin.

“Hey hey!” Dess exclaimed. “Easy! Easy! You’re safe here.”

“Hey bro you good?” Clover inquired.

“I’m…” Purity shook off the nightmare. “I’m fine. What I miss?”

“We’re in Snowdin,” Clover explained. “The original one.”

“What do you mean original one?” Dess inquired.

“We’re universe hoppers don’t worry about it,” Purity retorted. He turned to Clover, “What’s our next move?”

“We need to go see Marlet,” Clover explained. “I…”

Clover fell silent. 

“Can we talk alone?” Purity demanded.

Dess nodded, “OK. I’ll go check on Noel.” Dess walked upstairs.

“What is this about?” Purity demanded.

“We can’t do this anymore,” Clover sighed. “I can’t do this anymore. If we just stay with Marlet we can stop and rest just for a second and-“

“Marlet is an impure,” Purity snarled. “If anything she should be slaughtered like the others.”

“WE’RE impure,” Clover snarled. “Besides. I got questions. Like those bruises on your neck. You clearly aren’t well partner.”

Purity felt silent. Richard walked downstairs and interjected, “Go along with it. We are impure now. Hanging with one of our kind isn’t that bad. Maybe we seek redemption.”

“You have that much faith in your Marlet?” Purity demanded.

“Do you have more in yourself?” Clover retorted.

Purity said nothing.

*You committed an impure act.

*ALL impure at some point. No exceptions.

“Or we could try to redeem ourselves,” Richard retorted. “I have an idea. We can discuss it later.”

As before, Purity was left to watch over Noel. The conversation didn’t differ much. Purity’s hallucinations however, differed dramatically. There was only one of note.

He looked right at Noel. Starring through her. He didn’t see Noel.

*…Riley?

Purity rubbed his eyes and Dess and Clover returned. Noel returned to her old self. As before the trio decided to crash with Dess. It is the boat ride that differed.

“So…” Dess inquired. “Are you two trying to reach the barrier or…”

“Gray doors,” Purity replied. “Or that was the plan. Travel the multiverse to revive the dead.”

“Worked for me,” Clover added. “But it’s been… look it’s been a shitshow.”

“…is that why you’re covered in dust?” Dess demanded.

“Self defense,” Purity assured. “We didn’t have a choice. Especially with that skeleton.”

“We had a choice with some of them,” Richard interjected. “Papyrus has his back turned. Nabstablook would have moved if we asked.”

“Skeleton?” Dess inquired.

Clover sighed, “That one was… very aggressive. I would rather not talk about that.”

“They attacked us is the point,” Purity continued. “Two kids just trying to pass through. Most unprompted. We had to handle matters or they would just kill some other kid. They had to be purified. I mean imagine if you and Noel were humans. Wouldn’t you kill to protect her?”

“…I guess.” Dess hesitantly conceded.

“Exactly,” Purity continued. “But you guys are pure so don’t worry about it.”

“What does that even mean?” Dess demanded.

“Any who harm a child or do drugs are impure,” Clover clarified. “We “purify” the worlds we enter.”

Dess fell silent. She eventually asked, She sighed, “Are you sure that’s… right?”

“It’s that or people die,” Purity conceded.

The rest of the ride was silent and there was not any real changes of note until Purity could not sleep. 

“Get up,” Richard demanded. “We need to talk.”

Purity conceded, “Fine. Let’s make this quick.”

Purity got up and left the house. He wandered New Home, finding it empty. The Resort was blocked by a sign that read, “Closed by order of Asgore. Seek shelter immediately.”

There was only the spot where Clover died.

Richard sighed, standing under the tree. He asked, “So this is what you want?”

“What WE want,” Purity corrected. “I’m an alter. I’m part of you.”

Richard sighed. “I think what we want is to die. What happens if we continue? We kill and kill until nothing remains?”

“If the whole world is impure does it even deserve to exist?” Purity retorted.

“If the world is impure would we ever find happiness in it?” Richard demanded.

“Only way to find out is to see what’s left after the job is done,” Purity suggested. 

“I miss her,” Richard sighed.

“Yeah,” Purity retorted. “That’s the point.”

“…what if Gaster is lying?” Richard demanded.

“He will have endangered and lies to two kids and maybe more,” Purity retorted. “He will be purified like the rest.”

“Like us?” Richard demanded.

“They attacked us!” Purity screamed.

“That’s no excuse!” Richard screamed. “We agreed! No fucking exceptions! Those are the rules! That was the deal! Besides it’s effecting Clover now. They… they’re better off without us.”

Purity sighed, “…no exceptions?”

“It won’t be a pure world with us in it,” Richard replied. “Someone’s coming. Let me front.”

Purity conceded, “…if we go to Hell, we wait for her.”

“We’ll torment her on the other side,” Richard agreed. “That bitch who killed Riley.”

Ms. Holiday approached and Purity conceded as normal. All was the same except…

💛No exceptions.

After Ms. Holiday was wounded, as before, Dess grabbed Purity before he could finish the job. Once more they were stopped by the Royal Guard.

“Dess! Stay by Noel! We can take them!” Clover ordered. 

Clover charged the guards as Purity charged Undyne. “Finally!” She exclaimed as combat began, “The barrier can br-“

Purity struck Undyne down in a single blow. Undyne fell to her knees, wheezing. “No… not here. Not now. Not with freedom just within our grasp.”

“And allow you freedom to slaughter the innocent?” Purity retorted. His soul began to glow. “Just like HIM?”

*Undyne saw something horrific.

“I understand a lot of people hurt you,” Undyne sighed. “But I am hero of the underground. You desire the surface to change? I promise you boy, I will change it. Those people will pay.”

Undyne began to glow, “But I must reach them first. The man who nearly killed you will die by my hand. All those people you’ve shown me will pay for their crimes. You’re no hero. I am. So… I’ll finish the job.”

Undyne the Undying emerged. “Right after I finish the villain before me!”

*She's no better. Empty words nothing more. 

*For Riley.

A barrage of spears and arrows rained down like a torrential downpour. Purity deflected the magical projectiles as he closed the distance between himself and Undyne. He roared as he sidestepped a lunge and elbowed Undyne in the back. She staggered, her armor doing little to protect her from the mighty blow.

*Armor like paper. Spears like pencils. She is weak filth like the rest.

The battle raged on but Undyne was no match for Purity’s raw brutality. She finally fell, struggling to get back up. “No… you can’t-“

Purity didn’t allow her to speak and dealt the killing blow.

All that remained when Purity and Clover were done was dust. It stained the ground white as Dess picked up Noel and stood back, horrified. “What did you-“

“What choice did we have?” Clover demanded. “Let them take you back to Ms. Holiday and kill us?”

Dess fell silent, before conceding, “Can we just go?”

The trio left through the abandoned resort. The doors were boarded shut. Purity examined a note on the door by the gray door. “Huh. Full lockdown. Eh the pure don’t have anything to fear.”

“Was that really needed?” Dess demanded.

“Just a reminder if Noel was human she would be dead,” Purity snapped back. “What more proof do you need? Trust me having your sister die in your arms? Not fun. Mine died in my arms of alcohol poisoning. Unless you wanna take a similar chance, step in line.”

Dess fell silent. Mortified. Clover tried to reassure her, “We’ll only do what we have to. Aight partner?”

Dess nodded solemnly, “If that’s all we can do….”

The trio jumped through the door and-

END OF SECTION 3.5

Chapter Text

The following is a secret bad ending that occurs under the following criteria when Richard is confronted by Ms. Holiday. 

1: Richard must have 16 HP or less.

2: You must be a pacifist run or, at minimal, Flowey must be alive. 

3: When prompted to hold on the player must refuse. If players “hold on” the scene proceeds as normal after the text “*but it refused.”

It is upon Richard taking 16 damage that the scene takes place.

*You feel something shatter.

*It's cold.

*It’s so cold.

*You think about Lily.

*Lily…

Hold On! 💛Let Go.

*You feel… so tired. 

*You’re so very tired.

*You feel your mind fade…

*A rush of panic washes over you. You can’t leave them! You can’t! You don’t want to die you don’t want to die. 

*You call out for help…

*…but nobody came.

*You feel so tired as you give one last plea…

“Take care…” Richard gasped out. “Of my sibling. Tell everyone… I loved them.”

Ms. Holiday held back tears, “…I will.”

*A member of your party has passed.

Ms. Holiday took the corpse in her arms, holding the soul as it floated above her other hand. “By The Angel… what have I done?”

Clover awoke the next morning, unaware of what had taken place. As they walked out into the living room they noticed Dess pacing anxiously. 

“Hey you OK partner?” Clover inquired.

“Richard’s gone,” Dess replied.

“What?” Clover demanded.

“The door was unlocked and he’s not here,” Dess continued. 

*A wave of panic rushes over you.

*What if he…

*No. No you won’t accept it. He has to be here. He has to.

“Where’s your mom does she know anything?” Clover demanded. 

“I haven’t seen her all morning,” Dess explained. “I-“

Dess’s phone rang. She answered, “Mom! Where’s Rick?”

“Just turn on the TV,” Ms. Holiday replied. “I'm sorry but… it’s better this way.”

“What did you do?” Dess demanded.

Ms. Holiday said nothing.

“What did you do?” Dess screamed.

The line disconnected. Dess rushed for the remote and turned the TV on.

*The headline makes you freeze. You feel sick. Like you’re going to vomit.

*It's there clear as day.

*”The 7th Human Soul has been collected.”

*But if it’s not your soul then the only soul it could be is…

*Some robot is reporting on the news.

Mettaton continued, “Yes it is a happy day for all of us here in the underground! We will soon be free! Free to… wage war again. To continue the pointless slaughter. To take revenge using the souls of 7 children killed for…”

Mettaton froze. He slouched over. “…I can’t fake it. Cut it off. Shut it down. Shut down the prompter.”

The scene differs from here based on whether players met Mettaton as Richard or not. First the version where they don’t.

“He was a boy,” Mettaton sighed. “They were all just kids. You know I long wanted a soul for myself. To bring hope to the world above. To pass through the barrier without the carnage Asgore is to commit.”

Mettaton clenched his fist, “There is no longer any hope. Just the continuing of that long ended war. This will be my final broadcast to monsterkind. Enjoy your freedom, soaked in the blood of children. I hope you all choke on it.”

If players did meet Mettaton the scene instead goes like this.

“…I met him you know. The human.” Mettaton explained.

“He was kind in a weird way. Aggressive, angry at the world, but he wanted to make things better.” Mettaton was losing his composure. He looked as though he may cry. “He had lost his baby sister. She had been killed by a human. He had suffered more than enough. But no. All of you. All of my kind. He was just a soul to you. Not a human with hopes and dreams like all of us. A broken boy with a good but blackened heart. He was just to be gutted like a pig. He had friends. Family. Now his soul will be used by Asgore to continue the war of ages past. To slaughter the innocent above ground. He was just a boy…”

Mettaton clenched his fist, “There is no longer any hope. Just the continuing of that long ended war. This will be my final broadcast to monsterkind. Enjoy your freedom, soaked in the blood of children. I hope you all choke on it.”

The split ends here.

The TV turned to a “no signal” screen. Clover and Dess starred in abject horror. 

*You wait for Dess to reveal it's a joke. You wait for Dess to say it’s a joke and reveal Richard just around the corner. You call out for him…

*…but nobody came.

“…what do we do?” Clover demanded.

“We can’t do nothing,” Dess declared.

Flowey sneered, revealing himself from beneath the floor. “Then we kill him. We kill Asgore.”

“Flowey!” Clover exclaimed. “Where have you been?”

“Oh your best friend has been watching over you!” Flowey winked.

“You know this… flower?” Dess inquired, confused.

“We’re partners in crime you could say,” Flowey smirked. “Anyways, if he has the seven souls, he’s going to break the barrier. If we don’t strike him down, here and now, everyone. Everyone! Dies! The monsters and humans will slaughter each other again. We…”

“Woah you’re talking about murder here,” Dess interjected. “There has to be another way! We can talk to him! We can-“

Clover gripped their pistol. “Let’s go.”

“Clover please!” Dess pleaded. “Let’s not goes gun blazing here! We don’t even know how Richard died!”

*She avoids eye contact when she says that. 

*You both know someone hurt him.

“Going into the palace the day the barrier breaks huh?” Flowey inquired. “I don’t know you’d have to break in and-“ Flowey began laughing. “Just kidding let’s break in!”

Flowey wrapped around Clover’s arm.

*Flowey joined your party!

*He won’t take hits for you however. 

“Are you coming?” Clover demanded.

Dess hesitated. She turned away. She sighed, “I… I guess. I don’t know fully what’s going on. We need answers. But I’ll have to come back home quick before Noel gets up.”

*Dess hesitantly joined your party!

The two left the house. First, Clover tried to head north but…

*You… you can’t go back there. You just can’t. 

As the duo walked south, they passed by many monsters eager to leave the Underground at last. All talking about the the barrier finally being broken. Clover recalled some comments from them.

“Ah you must be the human that was promised. You have nothing to fear from us.” One assured.

“I heard he didn’t fight back,” another commented.

“Seven kids dead…” one lamented. “Was this truly worth it?”

“I can’t wait to see the stars,” one gleefully declared. “I wanna know if I can eat them.”

“I wonder what rain feels like,” one pondered.

The trio approached New Home without resistance via the elevator after speaking to the monsters.

“Where’s the Royal Guard?” Flowey demanded.

“Maybe…” Dess suggested. “There’s no reason to fight anymore? They have all seven souls.”

Clover simply gripped his gun, Flowey whispered in their ear wrapped around their arm. “That doesn’t sound very fair to me…”

“Let’s just go,” Clover growled marching onward.

Monsters appeared and spoke to the trio.

“You were the 6th human to fall.”

“Toriel spoke of you when informed of the collection of the 7th soul.”

“She was happy you were alive.”

The three carried on before monsters appeared again. Always sets of three speaking one after another.

“After Richard passed from the Ruins to New Home. Everyone was told right away.”

“The barrier was soon to break.”

“Your sacrifice so long ago at least pays off Clover. You should be happy.”

*Clover’s LOVE increased.

More monster, more empty words. Clover’s pulled their hat over their eyes to hide their anger.

“Your journey from the Ruins to the East. To other worlds.”

“You must be so tired.”

“Thanks to Richard’s sacrifice you won’t have to FIGHT anymore.”

“Sacrifice?” Dess asked after the monsters left. “You don’t think he…”

“We’re going,” Clover growled.

“Yeah we gotta king to kill!” Flowey egged them on.

They grabbed a key, and more monsters appeared.

“Ms. Holiday was the one to turn in the soul.”

“She… persuaded him to die, but she made a promise.”

“That you would be taken care of. Asgore will keep that promise.”

“Persuaded?” Dess demanded. “What did she do?”

There were no monsters to answer.

“What the FUCK did she do?” Dess demanded.

“They’ll answer,” Clover growled. “Let’s just keep going.”

More monsters appeared.

“Toriel spoke of Richard. He was ill of the mind and soul. She did not know him well.”

“Ms. Holiday was crying when she brought the soul, consumed by guilt. She said she manipulated him. That he had endured so much pain. That she felt it was MERCY. But it wasn’t.”

“She… promised to send him to Riley. He complied.”

*Clover and Dess’s LOVE increased.

“I’m going to throw up,” Dess moaned. She covered her mouth with her hand. “I’m gonna throw up.”

“You can’t throw up,” Clover reminded. “Right? Can monsters vomit?”

“Let’s find out!” Flowey gleefully suggested.

“She gaslit him into assisted suicide!” Dess screamed. “What the FUCK is wrong with all of you?”

“This wasn’t some sacrifice I at least knew what I was doing!” Clover cried. “HE WAS MANIPULATED! SHE EXPLOITED THE MIND OF A BROKEN CHILD! You CAN’T be saying that’s nobel! I DIDN’T HAVE PEOPLE TO GO BACK TO! HE DID!”

The monsters tried to reason with them to no avail.

“Clover please understand… his sacrifice was not in vain. Justified or not we can be free.”

“Richard truly loved you. From the bottom of his heart. In his last moments he tried to struggle. Cried out for you. Cried out for Lily and George.”

“He only stopped when she promised to care for you. Then… he closed his eyes.”

*Clover and Dess’s LOVE increased.

“I’m going to kill that fucking goat,” Clover growled. “Glorifying the murder of a child MY BROTHER! You’re filth! YOU ALL DESERVE TO BE TRAPPED DOWN HERE!”

Dess said nothing to calm Clover, merely stating. “We keep moving.”

More monsters appeared.

“Please do not act rash.”

“Asgore is to care for you. Have you any wish he will fulfill it with the power of a god.”

“What is your wish? We shall tell him.”

Clover drew their gun, crying. Their hands trembled. “Give… me… my… brother… back.”

The monsters gave no response.

“Then stay the FUCK OUT OF MY WAY!” Clover screamed before opening fire. The monsters left. Flowey appeared on the other side of the faux battle to speak to the duo.

“Wow! That scared em off! I knew you had it in you partner!” Flowey smiled and winked at Clover. “They really are monsters huh? Gaslight a mentally broken kid into commiting suicide? Disgusting. They have this coming! After all, you gave up willingly and they still continued to kill! They weren’t worth dying for. Let’s go “partner”.”

Dess sighed sadly as the faux battle ended. “We can’t let them reach the surface. Come on. We know how this ends.”

The trio proceeded to the Judgement Hall, the air heavy with silence and sin. The sin commited the night before weighed upon the Underground.

Sans stood in the way.

“You’ve changed,” Sans declared. “You came so far without killing huh? But… that desire to hurt. You have it. You… you don’t have to do this but I don’t blame you. Not this time. Just remember… don’t let anyone innocent get caught in your crossfire kid. OK?”

“I didn’t ask,” Clover growled. 

Sans closed his eyes and gave a solem chuckle. “Maybe not but… justice is blind. You are not. Your biases, your LOVE may taint your justice. Just… do the right thing, if you can.”

Sans was gone.

“This is justice” Clover growled. “Right?”

They turned to Dess who shook her head. “I don’t know. All I know is letting Asgore win isn’t justice. He has to pay.”

Clover broke down crying. “He was just a kid! Like us! Just a kid! And they took advantage of him! Gaslit him! Twisted his broken mind to gut him like some fat pig for holiday ham! He loved them! So much! How do we tell Lily? Or George? How do we even find them? I don’t know what they look like but he was my brother I have to tell his family that he’s-“

“It’s OK,” Dess hugged Clover. “It’s OK. We’ll figure it out. OK?”

“I hate to break this up,” Flowey reminded. “But if we don’t hurry that barrier breaks and we’re all fucked.”

“OK,” Clover wiped his tears. “OK… let’s go.”

Clover touched the last Save Point.

*Richard is dead.

*This is it.

*Purify the impure king.

*The power of vengeance shines within you.

They entered Asgore’s garden, where he sat upon his throne, a deep sadness in his eyes, thinking.

He greeted them, “Ah hello children. Pardon my… hesitation. With the soul coming in the night I must make sure news reaches everyone. It has already reached the Ruins. I need only wait to hear back from the Wild Wild East and we can begin by noon. You must be Clover. Come now child. I will raise you as my own as he was promised. I know not how you live with your own soul in my possession but-“

Combat initiated.

“Now now,” Asgore pleaded. “I understand why you are upset. I do not agree with how Richard’s soul was acquired. It was vile. I do not deny this. Can’t we talk this over a nice spot of tea? This is the mercy our people have waited for for so long. We will be free. We have no reason to fight.”

“Mercy?” Clover growled. “You call this mercy? FILTH LIKE YOU DOESN’T DESERVE MERCY!” 

Clover fired his gun at the MERCY button, shattering it bit by bit, until nothing remained.

“Please,” Asgore tried to defuse the situation. “What of your friends? Family even? Marlet? Ceroba? I am willing to wait on breaking the barrier until we talk things out if that is your wish. Please… lower your arms. I have no quarrel with you.”

“Richard was right,” Clover snarled. “Any who harm a child are impure. The world must be purified. King Asgore of the Underground. You have allowed several children to die in your kingdom on your orders, including myself. The sentence is death. What say you in your defense?”

“I beg you,” Asgore pleaded. “Do not act rashly. There is no need to fight. We have no reason to-“

“Is that a guilty plea?” Clover demanded.

“I deny not the evil I have commited,” Asgore conceded. “However I will not let my kingdom down. Stand down. This will be the last time I ask.”

Clover fired his gun and there was a flash of white light. The sound of embers filled the air. “Fine,” Asgore growled. “I do not wish to harm you, but I will defend himself.”

A single hand holding Richard’s soul emerged from the darkness. Asgore’s voice boomed with a menacing authority. “One on one seems unfair. Flower notwithstanding, how about two on two? One monster soul and one human soul versus one monster soul and one human soul.” Asgore crushed Richard’s soul and absorbed it. “Let us begin.”

Thoughts raced through Clover’s head

*The Unjust King looms tall.

*The soul of your brother grants him power.

*This is the end of your journey.

*The journey you started years ago.

*Your journey to avenge the fallen humans.

*Asgore stands between you and JUSTICE.

*You are filled…

*With DETERMINATION.

Combat initiated.

*For Richard.

Clover tried C-Action. Dess tried D-Action.

“All this because the humans killed your son?” Clover demanded. “How are you any better?”

*You tell Asgore that what he has done is no better than the humans. He nods solemnly.

*His resolve remains resolute, if shaken. Asgore’s DEFENSE decreased.

*All you can do is FIGHT.

Dess pleaded on the verge of tears. “You can’t do this! How many more will have to die before this ends?”

*Dess demands to know how many more must die.

*Asgore grips his trident tightly. He appears unnerved. Asgore’s ATTACK decreased!

*All you can do is FIGHT.

Darkness fell over the room. Asgore’s eyes glowed orange and blue left in right. As they glowed, he moved his trident high, low, and in the middle. He swung the trident like a scythe. The attacks harmlessly passing through the trio. However, the positions of his trident corresponded to a secondary attack. Beams of yellow energy blasted at Clover and Dess in the corresponding positions from the side, powered by the SOUL. Clover took blow to the chest and staggered.

“What are you on about boy?” Asgore demanded to an unseen speaker.

*You didn’t say anything, and you’re not a boy.

Clover and Dess readied their attacks, preparing to FIGHT. Flowey sneered as he fired pellets at Asgore. Asgore blocked the magic with his forearm, brushing off the blow effortlessly. However, this left him distracted for Dess to swing her bat right in his chest. Dess leapt back before Asgore could counter. Clover fanned the hammer of their gun, blasting Asgore to little effecting with the flaming bullets. 

“So that’s what you truly wanted? To make that woman pay? She is unspeakably horrid.” Asgore demanded. “Very well boy. I promise you, when the barrier breaks, she will be the first to die.”

Asgore extended an open palm, shooting trails of fire in the center of the arena. Dess’s arm got burned as she tried to leap out of the way. Every few seconds large columns of hellish flames burst out of the ground on the left and right. Clover leapt out of the way of one, only to turn around to see projectiles from the left and right, small yellow bolts from the soul assisting in the attack. 

*He appears to be talking to Richard. Their conversation seems to have ended.

Asgore attacked once more, this time with dancing spirals of fire. Once more beams from the left and right assisted the attack. Clover was hit directly by a powerful beam and fell. Dess cried out to them, “Clover!” She struck Asgore in the face, staggering him, and rushed to their aid.

*Guilty on all charges.

Dess forced Clover to GET UP, demanding, “Come on! We can take him!”

Clover nodded and forced themself back to their feet. Ready for Asgore’s next attack. Asgore prepared another attack, waves of fire from the sides, followed by yellow bullets from the top and Clover didn’t see these projectiles in time. “Clover look out!” Flowey demanded, blocking the attack with their vines.

“Guys this isn’t working!” Dess exclaimed.

“We have to think of something!” Flowey retorted. “This dumbass removed MERCY as an option!”

*It was never an option.

“He has to be stopped,” Clover growled. 

The battle continued.

*The sentence is death. 

Clover tried to CHECK Asgore. Dess braced herself with her bat for the next attack. 

*ASGORE. 80atk. 80def. A tyrant and a murderer. JUSTICE must be enacted. 

“Enough,” Asgore growled, his trident glowing yellow. “The humans shall fall. I’ve seen what they do to their own kin. He showed me. Clover… is that truly a race worth saving? This is for my people. This is for the greater good. This… is for Riley.”

*How DARE he!

Clover slammed his trident down, and time seemed to freeze. 

*The world must be purified.

Clover’s soul began to glow, the trident an inch from their face, and they dashed out of the estus

Asgore said nothing. They merely lifted their trident once more. Their eyes aglow with the yellow soul’s power, they declared, “I said ENOUGH!” A barrage of yellow flames enclosed around the duo, tightening around them. 

*But it’s not enough.

Clover’s soul glowed once more. It turned around. They blasted the yellow flames away with the power of their soul.

“That soul…” Asgore growled. “But… that’s impossible. You have already died!”

“Clover came back, they're right there!” Dess retorted.

“If you have the soul prove it!” Flowey tried to seize the opportunity to gain his desires.

“I’m no fool flower,” Asgore growled. “I won’t fall for your tricks so easily.”

“What tricks?” Clover demanded.

“It matters not,” Asgore declared. “That same color, or return from death. My people shall be free.”

The battle raged on.

*Execution by firing squad. 

Clover extended the arm Flowey was on and fired off rounds with their gun. Flowey sneered. “Yeah now we’re getting to the fun part!” Dess charged forward. She swung at Asgore, hitting them in the side and leaping back. Asgore prepared to counter, but the bullets caused him to flinch. He was left wide open when the PIERCING VINES tore through his armor. The vines retreated. Asgore merely lifted his trident.

Once more Asgore attacked. Yellow projectiles flew down from above, Clover countering with their own soul. Every few seconds, rings of fire would close in on the trio, but they dashed through without getting burned. 

*The world must be purified.

The battle raged on like this, Asgore preparing his next attack. He slammed his eyes glowed. Left. Left. Middle. Right. Left. Middle. Left. Right. As rings of fire closed in, Asgore slammed his trident down in the corresponding spots, Clover dashed through the flames, narrowly avoiding the lethal took of Asgore’s tyranny.

*An execution.

Another wave of attacks from the trio, and another from Asgore. Asgore opened his palm as golden flowers rained down from above, swaying left and right as they closed in. Clover blasted the projectiles out of the sky, dashing clean through the intermittent walls of flame.

*An example.

The battle raged on like this, until Asgore suddenly winced and fell to his knees. They lamented, “…You are strong. Stronger than I was prepared for. Is this how it ends? After all these years to free my people I…”

“Do you even know what your people wanted?” Dess demanded. “I’m one of “your people”. I didn’t want this! Any of this! Richard was just a kid! He was kind! He was scared! I know Rudy wouldn’t-“

“Don’t you DARE speak his name to me!” Asgore screamed. “As he lay on his deathbed he asked me to make a promise! I promised I would show his children the stars! I was there as he…” 

Asgore fell silent. He gripped his trident. “You didn’t know your father at all, girl. He would have given anything for you to be free. Even the lives of these children.”

“Maybe you didn’t know him,” Dess growled gripping her bat tight. “Even if what you say is true he wouldn’t want it granted like this Asgore.”

“You expect to much of him,” Asgore sighed.

“Or maybe he expected so little of you,” Dess mocked. “That he assumed you would give up ok your word. I remember he always hated how you gathered the soul ex he was trying to show you you were wrong with an impossible task.”

*You look into Dess’s eyes.

*She’s about to cry.

*She means every word.

“Enough,” Asgore snarled. “I will keep my word if it kills me. Stay out of this, Dess.”

Asgore lifted his trident and-

*Asgore pushed Dess away.

*He conjures a wall of fires.

*You can distantly hear Dess call to you over the cackling embers.

*You tell her you’ll be OK.

*You turn your attention back to Asgore.

“And you,” Asgore growled. “You who defied death. I know not how you walk among us. I know not how you’ve revived yourself and exist both dead and alive in this place, but I do know this. You died here once. You will die here again.”

Asgore lifted his trident, the soul in his possession glowing yellow. He held it high and fired a beam at Clover from its top. Clover countered, charging their own soul and firing their own beam. The two beams lay locked in stalemate. Clover didn’t notice the fireball from behind.

“Clover look out!” Flowey called, creating a shield behind Clover to block the fireball with his vines.

*Flowey protected you.

“Come on we’re not done yet!” Flowey exclaimed.

*You remember a moment.

*I remember a moment.

*I remember a moment in Snowdin. He was almost crying.

*He was talking to me at the Nice Cream cart like…

*Like he was going to die.

*He was just a kid. 

*He was just a scared kid trying to do the right thing.

*And they killed him. 

*All of them. 

*Every child to enter this place. For their own freedom.

*I remember sitting under that tree. Giving up my soul. I remember Ceroba let it happen. They all let it happen.

*I remember they manipulated Richard into killing himself.

*I…

*They played me. 

*They played me and left me to die!

*THEY TRIED TO KILL ME! THEY PRETENDED TO BE MY FRIEND! THEY MANIPULATED ME! A CHILD! INTO TAKING MY OWN LIFE FOR THEIR GAIN!

*Just like him…

*…

*They truly are monsters…

*Give him back.

“What are you muttering about?” Asgore demanded.

“GIVE! BACK! MY! BROTHER!” Clover screamed. Cover blasted at Asgore once more, who blocked with his trident. He staggered back, the trident shattering.

“I see…” Asgore sighed. “You are strong child.” Asgore tossed aside the broken handle, holding the sharp half of his weapon. “There is only one way this ends…”

Dess was no longer able to help as the flames rose higher and higher, surrounding Clover, Flowey, and Asgore. 

This was it.

*Justice.

Clover’s skills changed.

*I try C-action.

*But there was nothing else to say.

*I feel my will change.

*C-action became BLAST.

*Blast - Blast an enemy with my soul.  Deals insane damage.100%TP. 

Flaming Projectiles flew around the duo, some white, some yellow. Flowey blocked the white flames, defecting them with the vine shield as Clover blasted away the yellow embers.

*Hellfire.

Clover checked their other skills.

*FOCUS - He must have a weakpoint. Increase attack and grants 20%TP. 

*ENDURE - Not here. Not now. Boosts defense and blocks next hit taken. 40% TP.

Clover began to FOCUS, steadying their aim. Flowey fired off pellets the king deflected. Asgore countered, raising his trident in the four cardinal directions. North. North. West. South. East. East. South. North. Asgore lifted his trident, calling down beams from the corresponding directions as fires danced at random, Flowey blocking them.

*Regicide.

Clover fired off six rounds. Asgore stayed standing, but faltered for a moment. Another barrage of flames or two colors to no avail.

*Purify.

Clover took a deep breath.

They lifted their soul and locked eyes with the king.

Clover used BLAST.

A powerful beam tore the king to shreds, and he finally fell. Asgore had nothing left in him, on his knees.

“Human…” Asgore pleaded. “Please… if I am not to be free, you must free my people. They do not deserve this hell within this mountain. 

*They are all guilty.

Clover tried to FIGHT but…

*FIGHTing isn’t enough.

Clover was left with one option.

*Brotherhood - Purify what he could not. Lethal.

“I would say say hi to my brother,” Clover growled. “But I don’t think you two are going to the same place.”

Clover’s soul began to glow. A bright yellow power as one final beam charged. It tore Asgore asunder, slowly he was ripped to shreds, until only dust remained. 

The soul emerged.

Clover saw it obliterated.

*The execution has been carried out.

*My LOVE increased.

The flames died down. Clover sat down, exhausted.

“Clover!” Dess exclaimed rushing over to help them up. “Are you OK? You…”

“What now?” Flowey demanded. “We killed the king of the underground.”

“I mean we break the barrier right?” Dess inquired. “With your soul we have seven.”

“What?” Clover growled. “Why would I ever break the barrier, Dess?”

“So we can leave!” Dess exclaimed. “What else can we do? We killed Asgore! Everyone is gonna be after us! We have to get Noel and go dude!”

“Yeah just lemme grab those souls and-“ Flowey interjected.

“Can it Flowey!” Clover snapped. “We are not breaking the barrier.”

“But-“ Dess protested.

“Let me show you something…” Clover sighed getting up. “Flowey? Where do they keep the bodies?…”

Clover lead Dess to the basement and stood over a coffin with a yellow heart on it. They took a deep breath.

*I am not looking forward to this but…

*She has to understand.

*I open the coffin…

*It’s… 

*It's my own corpse. 

*I wonder for a moment how this is possible. How did Gaster bring me back if my corpse and soul remain here?

*…it doesn’t matter.

*Richard is dead. The deal is off.

“They’ve killed me before,” Clover explained. “Because I was foolish. Because I tried to have sympathy for them. I was wrong. All of them are complicit in this murder! My so called friends left me to die! I… I shouldn’t have given up my soul for monsterkind. It would have just been used to slaughter the innocent.”

“Then what’s the plan?” Dess demanded. “We need a plan!”

*I think for a moment before walking up to the throne. It’s cold, yet comfortable. The seat of a tyrant.

*I take my seat.

“This is the prison of Monsterkind for their sins. I will be its warden. I will rule them kindly, but they will remain here. This is justice. The they serve life in prison for their crimes,” Clover declared.

Dess hesitated for a moment, looking down at the corpse. She asked, “…even if we try to let them out peacefully… we couldn’t trust them, could we?”

“Woah woah woah!” Flowey pleaded. “Hold on a second! We have the souls! We can just kill everyone! Give them to me, we leave, and-“

“No Flowey,” Clover declared. “The bloodshed is over. Mass murder is no longer needed. Purification is no longer needed. The just action for their crimes is to continue their imprisonment.”

“You can’t do this to me,” Flowey growled. “Not when I’m so FUCKING close to-“

Clover glared, “Try me.”

Flowey tensed up nervously. They turned to Dess, who avoided eye contact.

“You’re both fucking cowards,” Flowey growled before disappearing into the ground. 

“So what now…” Dess inquired. “King Clover?”

“Bring Mettaton to me,” Clover declared. “We have an announcement to make…”

Everything faded to blackness…

*Mettaton sent out the broadcast on my order.

*The barrier would never break and no human shall be harmed under my rule. 

*Dess ruled by my side, and we provided Noel with the best life we could.

*Ms. Holiday went into hiding. She was wise to do so.

*Some monsters, lead by a woman named Undyne, tried to take my throne.

*I often wonder if their dust fertilized the flowers in the throne room.

*Dess seemed… depressed. I didn’t feel much better, but what choice did I have?

*One day she informed me of some guests coming to speak to me.

*They claimed to know me.

*I said I would not meet with anyone but her.

*The one who least wanted to kill me back in the day.

*Marlet entered.

*She begged me to break the barrier. Begged me to talk to her. Said I looked unwell.

*That I had lost weight.

*Little hard to eat when you feel monsters watching you from all sides. Waiting to gut your very soul like a fish.

*I reminded her what she had done to me.

*That she tried to kill me. That she let me die. They all did. That they then did nothing to ensure my soul wouldn't just be used by Asgore to kill others. To slaughter the innocent. 

*She seemed genuine. 

*Maybe she was.

*…I fired a warning shot.

*…

*I miss them.

*I miss Richard.

*Marlet has not spoken to me since. None of them have. Last I heard she was fine in Snowdin.

*I received word today of a human with a red soul. They have not taken a life. Repeating my mistakes I see. How sad.

*I will soon have to confront this human.

*I can hear them approaching my throne room now…

The human approached with a dagger and a locket. Dess stood by the throne, melancholy across her face. Clover sat on the throne grimly, their eyes tired and sunken. They had been ruling for years and had grown taller, but were thin and sickly.

*The human locks eyes with me.

*I ask their name.

*They tell me it is Frisk. That I am unjust king.

*They tell me to let these people free.

*I lose my cool.

“Set them free?” Clover demanded. “SET THEM FREE? They killed my partner! My brother! They gaslit him into killing himself and you think they deserve to be free? The sole reason you have not been met with bloodlust is because of my rule! If not for me they would have slaughtered you! They can never be free!”

“Not like humans are any better,” Frisk retorted. “And if humans deserve kindness why not monsters?” Frisk sighed and shook their head, “Besides… it’s not like it was a monster that killed Riley. So what’s the difference?”

*I feel black bile rise from my stomach. I think I’m going to be sick.

“Who told you that?” Clover demanded rising from their throne.

*They don’t answer. There’s only one person not inside this palace who had all the facts about Riley. Who followed us.

“Flowey you bastard!” Clover demanded. 

*The overgrown weed reveals itself, wrapping around Frisk’s arm.

*I draw my revolver.

“Woah woah easy!” Dess pleaded. “You can’t do that! That’s what we’re trying to stop!”

“Are you with me or not?” Clover demanded.

*She looks away.

*I don’t blame her. She’s the only friend I have left. 

*I sigh, annoyed all the same.

“This is the last warning to both of you,” Clover declared. “Leave child, or I will defend the barrier. Dess, if you do not wish to see that, leave. I’ll be done by dinner.”

*Dess says nothing as Frisk does not move. She leaves, her head hung low.

*Frisk readies their blade…

*I load my gun.

*Justice must prevail…

*Combat initiates…

*Everything fades to darkness.

*It becomes darker.

*Darker.

*Yet darker…

“I am afraid that’s where that tale ends,” Gaster sighs sadly. “You, the controller of their actions. Did you seek this outcome or stumble across it? One unjust king for another. Perhaps king is the wrong term for a non-binary ruler. Regardless, neither reigned justly. However, this has been most helpful for my experiment. For that, I thank you. Though my research must continue. I understand how tedious redoing these experiments can be, so allow me to offer you a gift to… accelerate further research. Perhaps these will suffice. I presume you've had them before?  You should be aware of their power then.”

*You will begin all future runs with Friendliness Pellets.

“I look forward to our next experiment,” Gaster smiled. “Worry not of the outcome. You can always save over it anyways, if you do not wish for them to suffer. Farewell, human.”

Gaster fell silent for a moment and asked, “Ah. Do you question the validity of my promise? My ability to return Riley? It is true that I did not revive Clover directly, but I assure you my methods are fully capable of allowing the girl returned safe and sound. Now, farewell human.”

Darkness consumed all, and whoever was in control would be met with the title screen once more to begin again with the new helpful tool as their reward…

Chapter Text

• This ending was planned fairly early on. I always thought it would be clever to tie an ending to Richard having low HP in the scene where he’s confronted by Ms. Holiday but I didn’t wanna force players into this route so I gave players the choice. This also works as a failsafe is players don’t meet all the criteria as the choice can be easily removed and Richard just “but it refused” his way out without player input.
• Flowey’s entire presence here is basically him trying to manipulate Clover into getting him to the souls. This of course fails on every front. I read Flowey assisting Frisk as an attempt to once again gain the souls by killing Clover and taking theirs.
• This ending intentionally parallels the endings of Undertale and the genocide ending of Undertale Yellow.
• In terms of parallels to the ending of Undertale, we have all the basic components. Hearing the story of a human who died as we go through to meet Asgore (only this time it’s about Richard rather than Chara), being judged by Sans, and finally fighting Asgore. It also parallels the genocide ending of Undertale with Flowey helping the player along.
• In terms of the parallels to Undertale Yellow we have many more. Yellow text, gaining LOVE not by killing but by hatred, and Clover blasting Asgore away with a Dragonball esque beam. Even Clover turning on Flowey. This is all by design due to the thematic overlap. There may be smaller details that I put in that simply elude me as I write this but you get the idea.
• Another notable parallel is between Richard and Clover. Every boss fight with Richard in the party starts with the phrase “for Riley”. A phrase about the one he lost. Clover begins the battle against Asgore with “for Richard”. Just as Riley’s death is Richard’s breaking point, so too is Richard’s death for Clover. We’re watching Clover become like Richard over the course of this ending. Vengeful, extremist, and violent. They both have the yellow soul, and both become bad people after someone close to them is killed unjustly.
• Richard’s death parallels Clover’s in many ways. While I don’t think the cast or Undertale Yellow are bad people for how that ending goes I do feel that it feels like they didn’t try enough. The pacifist ending of Undertale Yellow is functionally Clover commiting suicide, and frankly I didn’t like that. I’m not saying that was the writer’s intent, nor am I implying I am judging the writers from a moral standpoint for it. I am not as that clearly wasn’t how it was meant and as far as I know they’re good people. However it does have that undercurrent that always made me uncomfortable. Both of them die by suicide under the cherry tree in New Home. Clover recontextualizes their own death in their mind as being more similar to Richard’s death than it was, their hatred distorting their view of the events. We do see Clover’s friends tried to talk them down.
• The Asgore battle has three phases. Phase 1 has Asgore use his base game attacks with extra yellow projectiles from the power of Richard’s soul and is basically a “hard mode” Asgore. Phase 2 has Clover use the dash and shooting mechanics seen in endgame Undertale Yellow. Phase 3 sees Dess removed from the party and the player unable to move. This phase combines the green shield mechanic and yellow shooting mechanic, a trope I’ve seen used before. In this version the shield is contextualized as Flowey’s vines protecting Clover as Clover shoots, and the two are controlled independently of each other. Probably with both sticks on a controller or arrows and wasd keys respectively.
• One criticism I have od this ending is Dess doesn’t have enough agency here. Like we get a neat part where she brings up Rudy I like but… I dunno I feel I should have done more with her character here. I should revisit this aspect later. Maybe it’s fine given how this is kinda Clover’s ending. 
• Clover switching to yellow narration is meant to show they’ve fully snapped. They’re past the point of no return like in the genocide route of Yellow. This is another intentional parallel.
• There is a parallel to Deltarune here too. The skill Clover uses to kill Asgore is a callback to “Snowgrave”. The skill ENDURE is a callback to Richard as well, as he had a similar skill before meeting Clover. Almost the exact same skill actually. This shows how alike they’ve become.
• This ending is intentionally tragic. It is Clover’s downfall. We see Clover push away their loved ones and be consumed by their hatred. Clover treats the Underground as a giant jail, sentencing monsterkind to “life in prison” as a form of “justice”. Undyne doesn’t take to kindly to this and is killed, much how she rebels against Toriel in Undertale. When we see Clover confronted by Frisk, they are sickly and thin, showing that much like Richard, over the years they’ve rotted from the inside out due to their hatred. The outcome of this battle is intentionally ambiguous as I find that more compelling and also don’t wanna have to make an actual fight of it. The Asgore fight is enough as it is.
• The reward for this ending, the Friendliness Pellets are so replays don’t become tedious. While having no new game plus rewards for say, Undertale or Deltarune is fine, I don’t want players to save before Asgore and start again fully from scratch, so I give a way to speed things along. In a more gameplay focused project like Deltatraveler or Pure Mode new game plus rewards make finding these endings more, well, rewarding and alleviate tedium/frustration of players who find this by accident. Because of this I may buff the attack of friendliness pellets. 
• Gaster is being fully truthful in that he can keep his promise to Richard, but the fact we see Clover’s corpse and know their soul is still there is meant to be unnerving and raise questions as to how. I’ve been dropping hints for a while now as to the truth between how Gaster intends to keep his end of the deal. I will continue to do so. I’m not dropping the answer yet.
• This ending draws heavy inspiration from “Undertale Yellow: What if you could go to Asgore on a Neutral Route” by Robr0. Here’s a link it’s awesome: https://youtu.be/ta97QPytNAM?si=qUMP6RowOAA-d6b9
• Until section 4 comes out this is the end of Pure Mode. Sorry. Maybe it’ll actually be turned into a mod who knows. Have a great day!