Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Prologue

Ancient China is known for being inhabited by animals native to their land. A long time ago, the Peacocks were royal figures that loomed over a place known as Gongmen City.

Lord Peacock and Lady Peacock brought joy and prosperity to the city with their royal status. And they were also the ones who invented fireworks, a tool shot up in the sky in a dazzling light show of firecrackers.

Soon, the peacock couple had a son who they named Lord Shen. Shen was born with a leucism condition, his plumage becoming all white. Yet, it was not considered albinism, as his eyes weren't white. Yet, despite the condition, Shen's parents loved him unconditionally and knew that he would be a great heir to the throne.

However, as Shen grew older, he began to seek more power despite his royal status. He began to experiment with the gunpowder used for the fireworks, and his mind wandered to using these tools for a more... destructive purpose.

His parents were concerned by his greedy behavior, as they didn't want the fireworks to befall their beloved city and the innocent bystanders living in China.

The peacock couple called over the court Soothsayer, who took care of Shen from time to time when the two were busy. Using her fortune telling skills, she proclaimed that if Shen continued on the path he's on now, he would be defeated by "a warrior of black and white."

Shen overheard the prophecy and decided to avoid his fate. He tagged along with an army of wolves, guardians of Gongmen City, as he befriended them before. Together, they decided to avert Shen's fate. But what he did next... only sealed his fate for good.

Shen, believing that this "warrior of black and white" was a panda, stormed a farming village of pandas and tore it all apart, where he and his wolves murdered any panda they saw, intending to leave none alive.

After the torch was finally set down on the village, Shen came back home full of pride, hoping to make his parents proud by averting his fate. But he was shocked and saddened when he saw the horror etched on his parents' faces.

As a result of the genocide, Shen and his wolf army was banished from Gongmen City forever. Shen, angered, swore revenge on those who wronged him, and claimed he will return and, when he does, he will make China bow to him before he stormed off in a grudge.

Thirty years later, Lord and Lady Peacock were confirmed to have passed away from grief due to banishing their son. And since Shen was banished, the stewardship of Gongmen City was turned over to the Kung Fu Council consisting of Masters Storming Ox, Croc, and the legendary Thundering Rhino.

In the meantime, Shen has perfected a weapon of mass destruction. A metallic, long, adjustable head with an open hole called a "cannon," filled with magical spheres made with the ammo used for fireworks. His whole purpose was to use it to destroy kung fu and take all of China as his own.

He used it to storm Gongmen City, where he killed Master Thundering Rhino, locked up Master Storming Ox and Master Croc, and took the Soothsayer hostage. Shen then made more cannons in a factory and took his home palace as his own.

But Shen was shocked when one of his wolf adversaries came back to mention to Shen that there was still a panda alive. Even after being scolded by the Soothsayer plenty of times, along with her pleading him that it's time to end his path, he still pursued his goal. He soon set the Soothsayer free, having no use for her and having a sense of morality for one of the only people he secretly cared about.

The panda, named Po, along with the famous kung fu group known as the Furious Five, tried to stop him on a couple of occasions, but there were plenty of setbacks when Po was distracted by a symbol on Shen's tail feathers: the same symbol he and the wolves had when they invaded the panda village.

When Po was presumably killed by a large cannon ball in the factory, Shen took the Furious Five hostage and sailed out to sea with an army of boats, wolves, and cannons. However, Po, alive and at peace, freed the Furious Five, and the group, along with Storming Ox, Croc, along with Master Shifu, Po and the Fives' master, took a stand to stop Shen's weapon.

However, Shen struck down his second-in-command wolf when he refused to fire the cannon, not wanting to harm his own people. Shen took it upon himself to fire the cannon and wounded most of the group. Po then took a stand in the middle of the island, where Shen decided to finish him off.

But Po, having achieved inner peace, deflected the cannon balls, much to Shen's growing rage and dismay. Eventually, Po used the cannon balls to destroy Shen's ships. When it was over, Po offered Shen mercy to forget the past and choose who he is now.

But Shen refuses to let go and tried to take down Po in one final attempt. But unbeknownst to him at the moment,the ropes holding up his destroyed cannon were cut by Shen's own lance each time he swung it at Po.

As soon as all the ropes were cut, when Shen realized the cannon was about to fall on him, he closes his eyes and stays in his current position, finally accepting that fate has caught up to him. He was crushed by the cannon and killed.

Years later, Shen was brought back from the Spirit Realm by a sorcerer known as the Chameleon. Before he could react to why he was brought back, the Chameleon stole his fighting abilities and locked him in a cage. Po went ahead to retrive the staff, where he, alongside the Chameleon's former pupil and astounding thief, Zhen, tried to stop her.

The Chameleon transformed into a chimera, with different parts of all the different kung fu masters she had taken the abilities of, including Shen. Shen was displeased in every inch of his body, especially since the wings of Chameleon's chimera form are completely black. Completely irrelevant to Shen's white plumage! And even his fighting style, which wasn't even kung fu! He wanted to destroy it!

After a long, agonizing battle, Po defeated the Chameleon and returned the stolen kung fu abilities to the masters. Everyone soon confronted Po and saw him as worthy as the Dragon Warrior and a spiritual leader.

While everyone else bowed to show respect, Shen only showed a half-baked head lower, refusing to truly accept Po. And when it was time, Shen, along with the other kung fu masters, return to the Spirit Realm, where the Chameleon is abducted there as punishment for her crimes.

Chapter 1: The Spirit Realm

The Spirit Realm was a calming atmosphere. A place in the afterlife where the spirits of mortals go to once their bodies die out. Even the most evil are taken here to atone for their actions, hoping to make a place better for themselves than they once were.

In the distance, a long, curvy lance swung around, adorned with fiery-looking tips. Its wielder was none other than the white peacock himself. His appearance remains the same as he has since he first got here. His pristine white feathers adorned with sharp feather blades, wearing a long, light gray robe that he defines it as "made of the finest silk in the province." His talons retained their metallic features, despite no longer having access to his weapons of mass destruction.

"Greetings, panda! Again, we meet!" Shen exclaimed, evilly grinning as he points his lance in the distance.

He has been practicing his monologues for a long while now, trying to perfect his best motive if he ever returned. Not being like the other kung fu masters, he is not at peace and still holds a grudge for the way he felt he was treated in the past.

Shen stays in this position for a few seconds before he begins shaking his head and grumbling.

"No, no, no, this won't do!" He growled, tossing the lance aside. "I need something... grander! Something that will strike fear into the hearts of all who dare oppose me!"

His feathers stood on edge when he heard a quiet scampering sound. Turning to one of the rocky walls of the floating materials of the Spirit Realm, he saw a green four-legged creature with a yellow crown trying to blend in with the surroundings - the Chameleon.

Her eyes avert over once she noticed that Shen was watching her. She knew that now that Shen was back in his prime in this realm, and that opposing him now would be a great mistake.

"You!" Shen yelled, pointing a sharp feathered finger at the shivering Chameleon. "You think I haven't forgotten what you did to me!?"

The Chameleon hisses nervously as she sees Shen approaching her, his eyes filled with malice. She tries to shrink away, her body shifting to mimic the shadows, but she knows deep down that she cannot escape his wrath.

"If I wasn't brought to this realm, I would've taken your abilities again just as I have before!" Chameleon threatened, her voice quivering.

Shen laughs coldly, his feathers fluffing out.

"You think you can take me?" He snatches her up by the neck, his grip tightening. "But here, you are nothing but a mere shadow of your former self. How worthless you would have to be to gain some recognition for all that you've done. Even a little."

His laughs becomes more unhinged, thinking about the way his parents must've felt when they saw what he had become. The Chameleon lets out another hiss, ready to whip out her tongue as a defensive tactic. But before she could, Shen whips out a feather blade and holds it to the Chameleon's neck.

"The only reason I'm keeping you alive is, not only because we're already dead, but those that do not see my view will prevent by advancements with each attempt I try," Shen sneered, his feather blade glinting in the ethereal light of the Spirit Realm. He tossed the Chameleon aside like a ragdoll, watching her hit the floor with a pained thud.

Shen paced back and forth, his mind racing with thoughts of power and revenge. The Spirit Realm was vastly different from what he remembered, but the desire for conquest remained the same. He knew that he could not remain in this prison of peace for long. He had to find a way to regain what he felt was rightfully his: the throne of Gongmen City and the fear of China beneath his talons.

The peacock muttered to himself, exploring around the vast environment and able to reach some higher points of debris due to his gliding abilities as a peacock. His parents have wronged him. They always looked down upon him, did they not? He had accepted his fate, and yet, he still could not think peace could come to him on a silver platter. He couldn't even want to show his face to his parents if they were even here.

As Shen continued to pace around, he realized a bunch of pink petals were flowing around. The background became more yellow until it eventually bathed him in an ethereal glow. Shen groans, as he realized he was nearing the large cherry blossom tree, where he knew who was there.

"Oh, not him again," he murmured to himself as he approached the tree. The wise old tortoise looked down at the fidgety peacock, his eyes filled with a knowing gaze that seemed to see through every dark intention Shen harbored.

"Lord Shen," Oogway greeted, his voice as calm as a gentle breeze. "Your spirit remains restless."

Shen's eyes narrowed, his feathers bristling with irritation at the mention of his banishment from thirty long years ago. Has it seriously been thirty years already? Maybe even more after that whole fiasco with the Chameleon, but still!

"Restless? Ha!" He snarled, pacing in front of Oogway. "I am a force to be reckoned with, not to be caged in this place of tranquility! I demand to return to the mortal realm and claim what is rightfully mine!"

Oogway's gaze remained steady, his ancient eyes seeming to peer into the very soul of the troubled peacock.

"The mortal realm is ever-changing, Shen. Perhaps what you seek is no longer there," The wise tortoise stated, his eyes unblinking.

Shen scoffed, his feathers fluttering in agitation.

"You think you can keep me here?!" He snarled, his wings unsheathing a sharp set of blades, ready to attack the turtle.

"It is not my decision to make," Oogway replied calmly, unphased by Shen's aggressive stance. "The cycle of life and death is not one that can be easily manipulated, especially by those who have caused so much suffering."

Shen's grip on his feather blades tightened, his eyes burning with anger.

"But I have power!" He shouted, his wings in a stance ready to attack. "I will not be kept here to rot!"

Oogway simply nodded, his expression unchanging.

"Power, yes, but it is not yours to wield as you wish. It is a burden, and you have shown that you cannot handle it responsibly," He explained. "Your heart is still filled with anger and bitterness, and until you can find peace within yourself, you will never truly find what you seek."

Shen's beak curled into a sneer as he lowered his weapon slightly.

"Peace? What peace is there for me?" He spat out, his eyes narrowing. "I was cast out, my parents hated me! Everything I have done was to make them proud, and for what?!"

Oogway sighed, his gaze filled with a mix of pity and wisdom.

"Your parents' love was never contingent on power or destruction," he said softly. "They loved you, Shen. Your actions were your own choices, driven by fear and misunderstanding."

Shen's eyes flickered with a hint of doubt, but the anger in his heart was too strong to let Oogway's words sink in. He spun on the edge of his metal talons, his feathers fluttering dramatically as he stormed away from the wise tortoise.

"Tch, peace," Shen scoffed, his feathers fluttering angrily as he stomped away from Oogway's tree. "What use is peace when the world is ripe for the taking?"

Shen continued to mumble to himself as he left the sacred tree, the last thing seen being his large tail feathers trailing the ground. Oogway shook his head as he looks back at the tree.

"The mind can be corrupted in many ways," Oogway murmured to himself as he watched Shen's retreating figure, "but it is never too late for redemption."

*meanwhile...*

In another part of the Spirit Realm, two booming voices could be heard. Familiar voices, too. The first was Tai Lung, a snow leopard that was once Shifu's student and a kung fu warrior, capable of striking nerve attacks. The second was General Kai, Oogway's former "brother-in-arm" who became corrupted by power and a spirit collector able to take chi of anyone.

"I don't have what it takes?" Tai Lung exclaimed, "I was able to take down an entire army in a prison specifically built for me! With one strike of my paws, I can paralyze you in an instant!"

"Please," Kai scoffed, "As a warlord, I fought many armies and have become all powerful in the Spirit Realm. I was able to take your chi before, so what makes you think I won't do it again? You're just a mere shadow of your former self here."

Their heated bosting exchange grew louder, echoing through the tranquil realm. Both spirits had been defeated by Po in their own way, but their pride had never truly been shattered. While they have come to slowly respect him after the incident with the Chameleon, they can't forget their past and the struggles they went through.

Shen was pacing around, still grumbling about how he refuses to let go of his past. Both Tai Lung and Kai stop their boasting to notice Shen nearby.

"Well, seems the feathered fool has returned," Kai sneered, eyeing Shen from the shadows.

Shen's head snapped up, his feathers ruffling at the sound of his name. He glared in the direction of the voices, his gaze landing on the two powerful beings.

"Fools, both of you," He spat out, his voice dripping with contempt. "Bickering like schoolyard children over who's the stronger warrior. It's pathetic."

Tai Lung and Kai shared a look of disdain before turning their attention to Shen.

"And what would you know, Shen?" Tai Lung challenged, his fur bristling. "You're just a peacock who couldn't even hold onto his own kingdom without resorting to genocide. Your own creations led to your destruction."

Shen's eyes narrowed dangerously, his feathers fluffing up.

"Do not underestimate me!" he warned, his voice piercing and menacing. "I have faced down armies and conquered cities with nothing but my wit and the power of gunpowder. I do not need your 'chi' or your brute strength to rule."

Tai Lung and Kai exchanged glances, both recognizing the fire in Shen's eyes. They had seen that look before in themselves and knew it was that same look when you have a desire for power.

"What do you propose, then?" Kai asked, his tone mocking. "To fill the heavens with your colorful explosions and claim dominion over the dead? It's not like you can just bring it over here, not if you're like me who has managed to return to the mortal realm."

Shen smirks at the challenge, his feathers standing tall.

"Perhaps I don't need to bring my fireworks here," he muses, his mind racing. "But what if I could harness the power of this realm and make something new?"

The thought lingers in the air as Shen's gaze shifts to the distant horizon.

"Ha! You're bluffing!" Tai Lung scoffed, his tail swishing as he took a step forward. "The Spirit Realm is not a playground for your petty experiments!"

Shen's smirk grew wider, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

"Oh, but what if I'm not?" He asked, his feathers ruffling with excitement. "What if I could find a way to wield the very essence of the Spirit Realm against the living world?"

Kai's eyes narrowed, intrigued by the peacock's audacity.

"What makes you think you can do what we cannot?" The bull mused, stepping into the light, his eyes gleaming with a hint of malice. "You've been here for less time than either of us, and you already think you know the secrets of the afterlife."

Shen's smirk remained unfaltering. He knew the power of fear and manipulation. He had used it to his advantage in life, and he saw no reason not to use it in death.

"You see, my dear friends," he began, his voice smooth and calculated, "while you two have been busy lamenting over your past glories and defeats, I've been observing. This realm is not just a place of rest for the souls of the defeated; it's a prison, a prison of untapped power!"

Tai Lung and Kai exchanged skeptical glances, but Shen's confidence was infectious.

"Imagine," Shen continued, pacing in a circle around them, his eyes alight with excitement. "The power to manipulate the very fabric of the afterlife. To bend the rules that govern us here to our will. To strike fear into the hearts of the living and the dead alike. Together, we could reshape the world beyond our wildest dreams!"

Tai Lung and Kai watched him with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. They had both felt the limitations of their powers in the Spirit Realm, and the prospect of harnessing something greater was tempting. Shen's intellect compared to theirs was... refreshing, to say the least.

"How do you propose we do this?" Kai asked, his deep voice rumbling through the air.

Shen paused, his feathers fluttering with excitement as he turned to face them.

"I've been tampering with some plants while sulking in my grandeur," Shen said, gesturing to a set of peculiar canisters of powder off to the side. "These are not mere explosives for entertainment. They contain the essence of the Spirit Realm itself."

Tai Lung and Kai leaned in closer, their curiosity piqued despite their reservations. Shen picked up one of the canisters, holding it delicately in his feathery grip.

"These," he said, his voice low and intense, "are the key to our dominance. Imbued with the energy of the Spirit Realm, they can bend reality, tear through the veil between worlds, and grant us the power we crave."

Kai's eyes lit up at the mention of power, his mind racing with the possibilities. He then snorts, smoke blowing out from his nostrils.

"Hmph, I'll believe it when I see it," Tai Lung snarled, folding his arms over his chest.

Shen merely chuckled, his eyes gleaming with the excitement of a masterful plan. He tossed the explosive into the air and caught it again.

"Very well," he said, his tone smug. "But you won't be able to ignore the results."

The deranged peacock preens over to a set of vines, twirling the canister in his hand. His feathers shimmered in the soft glow of the realm's light, casting eerie shadows across the ground.

"Behold," Shen announced, his eyes flashing with malice, "the fruits of my labor."

He then brings the explosive closer to the set of vines, and he swipes his metal talons along the explosive, igniting the mysterious powder inside.

BOOM!

The explosion echoed through the Spirit Realm, the shockwave knocking Tai Lung and Kai off their feet. The vines, once a vibrant green, now writhed with an eerie blue energy, their tendrils stretching out like the arms of a vengeful spirit.

It formed some kind of eerie blue circle that was whirring with energy. The vines grew more vigorous, reaching out as if they had a mind of their own, the air crackling with the power of the Spirit Realm.

Shen looks at the results with a crazy grin, his eyes shrinking with delight. His smile faltered into a look of shock as the vines grew more and more, heading towards Shen.

"What have I done?" He stammers, dropping the remains of the explosive in horror. The vines grew around him, their energy crackling as they tightened like a noose. He brings out his lance and begins cutting some of the vines, but their energy made them go faster at an alarming rate.

The vines overwhelmed Shen to the point they wrapped around him before, in an instant, they pull him into the whirlwind of energy. Shen did manage to grab an inch of whatever powder was sprinkled on the ground before the vines thrust him into the mysterious hole. The blue light grew brighter until it was almost blinding, and the air around them vibrated with power.

And then, as quick as it started, it ended. The blue energy circle ceased to exist, and the vines fall lifelessly to the ground. In the middle of the clearing, where Shen had been standing just moments ago, gone in a flash.

Tai Lung and Kai slowly got to their feet, dusting themselves off, their eyes wide with shock.

"So this happened to him twice now," Tai Lung mused, looking at the spot where Shen had been moments before.

Kai grunted, his eyes narrowing as he studied the fallen vines.

"I do not believe it was an accident," he said slowly, his mind racing. "The Spirit Realm does not tolerate those who wish to manipulate it for their own ends."

"As long as he ain't threatening us, I suppose," Tai Lung continued, his voice trailing off as he picked up one of the lifeless vines. "But what was he planning to do with that power?"

Kai's gaze was still focused on the spot where Shen had vanished, his mind racing with possibilities.

"Whatever it was, it was no small feat," he said, his voice deep and ponderous. "The power of the Spirit Realm is not to be trifled with. It has a way of... correcting those who seek to misuse it. You pick up on things like that."

The two former adversaries shared a knowing look, the gravity of Shen's potential fate weighing heavily on their spirits. Despite their own thirst for power and vengeance, they had learned the hard way that there were forces in this realm that were not to be underestimated.

Chapter Text

Shen lets out a groan, his eyes fluttering open. When he completely opened his eyes, he saw that he was no longer in the Spirit Realm. The first thing he noticed was that the ground was sand, and the temperature felt... warm.

When Shen stood up, he glances around to see he was in the middle of some kind of desert.

"This does not look like China," Shen murmured to himself, brushing off the sand that clung to his feathers. He looked around, his eyes squinting against the scorching heat surrounding him. The desert stretched out in every direction, a stark contrast to the crystallizing, green world of the Spirit Realm.

Shen's feathers ruffled in irritation as he took in his new surroundings. He had expected to be sent back to Gongmen City to reclaim his throne, not dumped in a barren wasteland.

"Where am I?" He roared, his voice echoing off the towering dunes.

He looked around, spotting something peculiar in the distance. A monster with a star-shaped head was approaching him, his skin a sandy yellow color that blended with the desert. He wore a brown poncho with light blue stripes, along with brown pants and boots. The creature had a badge on its chest, glinting in the sun. His eyes were completely white, and his cowboy hat made him look more authoritative.

The creature raised a hand in a friendly wave.

"Well, this is new," He said, "You don't seem to be around these lands, huh?"

Shen's gaze snapped to the star-shaped creature, his feathers bristling with wariness.

"Who are you?" He demanded, his voice sharp as a blade.

"Name's North Star," the creature introduced himself, his smile wide and welcoming despite the hostility in Shen's tone. "I'm the sheriff 'round these parts. Welcome to the Dunes, a little slice of the Underground you probably didn't know existed."

Shen's eyes narrowed as he took in the peculiar figure before him. He had seen many strange things in his time, but nothing quite like this.

"Underground?" He repeated, his voice filled with skepticism. "I've been to many realms, but none quite as... lacking in grandeur as this."

North Star chuckled, his star-shaped head bobbing with amusement.

"Ah, you're new here, I can tell," He said, his white eyes gleaming with good humor. "The Underground's got its charm, if you know where to look. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, stranger. What brings you here?"

Shen studied the creature, his mind racing. He had no intention of sharing his true intentions, not yet.

"I've come to claim what is mine," Shen replied cryptically, his feathers standing tall. "But it seems I've been... waylaid."

North Star tilted his head, his smile never wavering.

"Well, if you're looking for trouble, you've come to the right place," he said, his voice laden with a hint of mischief. "The Underground's full of interesting characters, and more than a few folks looking to make a name for themselves. But if you're looking for power, you're better off exploring 'round the sandyscape. The Oasis Valley is a good place to start, or so I've heard. Me and my posse, the Feisty Five, keep the peace here in the Dunes, but beyond that, it's a free-for-all."

Shen's interest piqued at the mention of power, his eyes gleaming with malicious intent. He had always been adept at reading between the lines, and he could see that North Star was holding back information.

"The Oasis Valley, you say?" He mused, stroking his beak with a feather. "And what kind of power might one find there?"

North Star's smile grew even wider, his teeth glinting in the sun.

"Oh, all sorts of things, my friend," He replied in a confident tone. "But I'm afraid that's a secret only those worthy of knowing are allowed to hear."

Shen's eyes narrowed at the challenge.

"Worthy, you say?" He smirked, his feathers puffing out as he took a step closer to North Star. "I've conquered cities and armies with nothing but my wit and firepower. I dare say I'm more than worthy of such secrets."

North Star's smile never left his face, but his eyes grew sharper, sensing the threat underlying in Shen's words. He raised his hand to his holster, the sand around them shifting slightly.

"Now, now, let's not get ahead of ourselves," He said calmly. "This ain't the kind of place where you just waltz in and start throwing your weight around. As you're an outlaw, you gotta prove yourself if you wanna be part of the Underground."

Shen's beak curled in frustration, but he knew better than to underestimate someone who looked so nonchalant yet had the bluff of a leader.

"Fine," He hissed, his feathers flattening slightly. "What must I do to prove myself?"

"Why don't we settle this in a friendly dual?" North Star suggested, his hand hovering over his holster. "Just you and me, no funny business."

Shen sneered at the proposal, but raises an eyebrow in confusion at the way this guy pronounced "duel" as "dual," but he didn't argue semantics. He knew when to play the game and how to play it well. But he knew the value of information, and if this 'sheriff' had the knowledge he sought, then it would be a small price to pay.

"Very well," Shen said, his voice dripping with condescension. "I'll indulge your games. But remember, I am Lord Shen, the Conqueror of China, feared by all. You stand no chance against me."

North Star's smile remained unfazed, his eyes never leaving Shen's. The two walk to the center of the current place they are at. They both bow their heads once before they glance at each other.

"Ten paces," North Star reminded, his hand hovering over the gun in his holster. "And then, we'll see who stands and who falls."

Shen nodded curtly, his grip tightening around his lance. He had never encountered a creature like this before, but he had faced and defeated countless foes. The sandy ground felt unfamiliar beneath his talons, but he was a master of adapting to his surroundings.

The two turn around and walk away from each other, counting the number of steps in their heads. The tension in the air grew as thick as the heat from the sun above them. At the count of ten, they both spun around and North Star began to bring out his gun. Shen, with the swiftness of a peacock, leapt into the air, his lance pointing directly at Starlo's chest.

But North Star was no ordinary sheriff.

With a twirl of his hand, he grabbed his lasso from his side and threw it with lightning speed. The rope coiled around Shen's neck, pulling him off balance.

Shen lets out an estranged cawk, his feathers ruffling in surprise. He had not anticipated the quick reflexes of this star-shaped monster. His grip on his lance faltered, the weapon clattering to the ground as the lasso tightened around his neck. He glared at North Star, his eyes burning with anger and a hint of respect for the creature's tactical prowess as his metal talons cut through the rope with a sharp metallic sound.

"So you're a dirty fighter as well, huh?!" Shen snarled, his pupils dilated with madness.

"All's fair in a dual, partner," North Star chuckled, his white eyes gleaming through the sand. "But I'd watch your feathers, Lord Shen. This ain't no place for a peacock show."

The atmosphere abated, and Shen took stock of his opponent. North Star hadn't moved from his spot, his stance casual yet ready for combat. His gun remained holstered, but his hands hovered near the grip, a clear threat.

"Now, if you must be on your way, me and the Five are gonna hit up some time at the saloon," North Star stated, "Just remember, the Underground has its rules, and you might wanna get acquainted with 'em before you go causing trouble."

Shen's feathers bristled with annoyance at being talked down to by this peculiar creature, but he knew better than to show his hand too early. He nodded stiffly.

"Fine," he said, his beak curling into a snarl. "I'll play by your rules... for now."

North Star nodded once in respect before he walks away, leaving Shen to stew in his own pride. Once the sheriff was out of earshot, Shen grumbled to himself, his feathers fluffed up in irritation. He had not come to this... 'Underground' to play by anyone's rules but his own. Yet, he knew the value of patience and information. He would bide his time and find this 'Oasis Valley'.

The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm orange glow across the dunes. Shen's stomach growled, reminding him that he had not eaten since he left the Spirit Realm.

Looking around the dunes, he saw a shipment of bags by a faraway tavern, filled with various vegetables such as corn and wheats. His talon grabs hold of his rope dart, twirling it around his wing before throwing it with a swift flick.

The rope darts through the air, wrapping around the bags before he yanks it back, dragging the food closer. He opens one and starts to peck at the corn, his feathers ruffling in pleasure at the taste. It was surprisingly good. He has not felt this type of satisfaction in a very long time.

As he devoured his makeshift meal, he contemplated his next move. He needed to find the Oasis Valley, but he also needed to blend in, to not attract unwanted attention. He could not simply charge ahead, not in a place where he was so obviously out of his element. The underground was not his domain, and he had no idea of its rules or its inhabitants.

Shen then thought back to what North Star said. Spoke about hanging out with his pals in a saloon. If he wanted to blend in, that was the perfect place to start. He had to get information about this entire Underground and find a way to adapt to it. The peacock's mind was racing with thoughts of power and dominance, but he knew he needed to tread carefully.

meanwhile...

Deep within the castle of New Home, a lovely garden of golden flowers lay abroad. It was also the place where a throne sat in the upper middle of the room, and a tunnel that would lead to another place mysterious to its inhabitants.

Near the throne saw a large, muscular goat man, fit with yellow hair and a beard, large white horns, and a yellow crown. His armored muscular body was covered by a large purple robe fit with yellow shoulder pads.

This person was the king, Asgore Dreemurr. For a while now, he has proclaimed to not let monsters give up hope, as he waged war on humanity after a tragic event and threatened to kill any human who fell into the underground.

With seven human SOULs, he could break the barrier to free the monsters from their prison. So far, he's collected four and his goal will not stop there. But his compassion for those he loved has not faltered at the slightest.

"Dum dee dum..." Asgore hummed, smiling as he gently strokes some of the golden flowers.

Footsteps can be heard. From the entrance to the throne room, a dark gray fox-like monster walks into the room. He wore a green kimono with a yellow trim, green boots, and a pair of circular goggles with a dark green tint. He also has purple fur atop his head and on the tip of his fluffy tail.

"Your Majesty," The fox called out. Asgore turns around, his smile turning to more of a neutral expression as he stood up straight.

"Chujin? You've returned again?" Asgore questioned.

"I have not given up my skills to help monsterkind," Chujin replied. "I have brought my latest model of Axis, and I promise this time, you will be pleased with my work."

A deep sigh escapes Asgore's lips as he looks at Chujin with a mix of exasperation and affection. Despite his repeated warnings, the stubborn inventor continued to bring him weapons, all in the hope of breaking the barrier.

"Chujin," Asgore mentioned, "Each time you brought your robot model to me, it has always ended in disaster. I've given you plenty of chances, and yet you insist on bringing these dangerous contraptions before me."

"I promise I have tinkered with every possible error," Chujin insisted, his ears flattening slightly. "This new model, Axis Model 08, is the most sophisticated yet. It's designed to be an unstoppable force for our freedom!"

Asgore rubbed his temples, weary of his friend's persistent enthusiasm for destruction.

"I appreciate your efforts, but I am not sure if I can give you another chance," Asgore said, his voice firm yet gentle. "The last time, Axis did not even enter the throne room."

Chujin's ears drooped in disappointment, but his eyes gleamed with determination.

"Please, Your Majesty, I've made significant improvements," Chujin pleaded, his eyes shimmering with hope. "The new Axis is much more obedient and precise in its actions. It will not fail you or the cause."

Asgore studied Chujin for a moment, his expression thoughtful. He knew the fox's heart was in the right place, and his desire to help was genuine. With a sigh, he made his decision.

"Very well," Asgore finally said, his expression softening slightly. "Bring it forth. But remember, this is your final chance. If Axis causes harm, I will have no choice but to banish you from the castle once more."

Chujin's eyes lit up with gratitude, and he turned to leave the throne room. Asgore watched him go, his mind racing with thoughts of the potential consequences. He knew that his people desperately wanted to escape their underground prison, but he also knew the price of war.

The sound of the castle's grand door creaking open brought him out of his thoughts. He looked to see Chujin wheeling in the robot, the same gray one he knew looked familiar. Chujin brought out a remote control and pressed a button. The robot, Axis Model 08, came to life with a series of whirs and clunks.

The robot's eyes glowed pink, and it began to move, its heavy metal frame gliding smoothly across the floor. It stopped in front of Asgore, raising an arm in a dramatic gesture. The king looked at it skeptically, his hand resting on the hilt of his trident.

"AXIS MODEL 08 READY TO GUARD AND PROTECT," the robot's voice boomed, its eyes glowing with an eerie light. The king's expression remained unchanged, his gaze assessing the new creation before him.

A few seconds pass by, filled with tension. All the previous attempts, the model would've broken down right about now, or not even turn on at all. But it still stood tall, gleaming under the light above. Chujin couldn't help but crack a smile.

"It's working... it's working!" Chujin whispered to himself, his eyes wide with excitement as Axis Model 08 remained standing and operational before Asgore.

As a few more seconds pass by, static is heard as Axis jitters around a bit, his pink eyes flickering on and off.

"ERROR: SYSTEM OVERLOAD DETECTED," Axis's voice crackled, and before anyone could react, the robot's eyes turned purple. "SEEK CRITICAL REPAIRS IMMEDIATELY."

And, just like before, the robot model begins spazzing around as sparks began to fly out of it. A bead of sweat appears before Chujin's forehead, his eyes widening in horror. He jumps into action, pressing several buttons on the remote, trying to shut down Axis Model 08 before it could do any damage.

A couple of the sparks spray onto the bed of golden flowers, and they were set on fire instantly. Asgore gasps quietly, his heart beating faster as his eyes widen in equal horror as Chujin's, but for a different reason. Lowering his eyes, he grabs his trident and swipes it across the fire, extinguishing it with surprising ease.

After a couple frightening seconds, Chujin finally shuts down the malfunctioning Axis Model 08, and the robot slumps to the floor with a metallic thud. The room falls silent except for the crackling of the smoldering golden flowers. Asgore stares at the wreckage before turning to face Chujin, his expression a mix of disappointment and anger before he turns away again.

"Please leave. Leave and do not return," Asgore said, his voice carrying a finality that sent a shiver down Chujin's spine. He knew the king was at his wits' end with the failed experiments.

"I... I apologize deeply," Chujin stammers, his eyes glued to the floor as the weight of his failure sank in. He knew he had pushed his luck with Asgore, but he had been so sure that this time, he had finally got it right. Glancing down at the failed project, he takes a step closer to the king.

"But as we are, us monsters simply aren't ready to bypass the barrier!" Chujin continues to argue, desperation in his voice. "You know this deep down... I know you do. Axis IS the solution you need!"

"The solution I need is a reliable one. One that won't set fire to our homes," Asgore said, his voice stern and unyielding. "I understand your intentions, Chujin, but I cannot risk the safety of my people for your untested inventions."

"If this is about my..." Chujin started to protest, but Asgore's stern gaze silenced him.

"It isn't," Asgore said firmly, cutting Chujin off. "This is about your repeated disregard for the consequences of your actions. I have given you chance after chance, and each time, you bring me a weapon that could harm those I've sworn to protect. Your intentions may be pure, but your judgment is lacking."

Chujin's ears fell, his eyes cast downward. He knew Asgore was right, but he couldn't shake the feeling of failure that washed over him. His mind raced, trying to think of what to say to change the king's mind.

"I thank you for your service to society... but I'm afraid monsterkind's freedom belongs in more capable hands," Asgore said solemnly, his eyes reflecting his regret. "Leave the castle, Chujin. Consider your actions and their repercussions. We shall speak no more of this."

Chujin opened his mouth to object, but no words came out. He stood in place, his goggles fogging up. With a deeply hurt expression, he turns away.

"...Fine," Chujin murmured, his voice cracking with defeat. He looked down at the robot, his creation now a pile of scrap metal and fried circuits. He knew he had pushed Asgore too far, but he couldn't help the burning hope within him. He had believed, truly believed, that this time it would be different. That he could provide something of value to their cause.

But as the silence grew heavier in the throne room, the realization dawned on him that he had failed once more. He bent down, picking up the charred remains of Axis Model 08, feeling the weight of his failure in his hands. He turned to leave, his shoulders slumped in defeat.

"If that is what you wish, I will not return," Chujin said, his voice heavy with disappointment. He turned to leave, his tail drooping as he dragged the damaged robot out of the throne room. As the door closed behind him, Asgore let out a sigh, his shoulders slumping slightly.

*scene: Oasis Valley*

Shen makes it to the Oasis Valley, a part of the Dunes with buildings that its inhabitants call home. There was a large pond of drinkable water away from the buildings, and the saloon was the biggest landmark of the oasis.

As he approached the saloon, the sounds of laughter and music spilled out into the night air. He could see the flicker of lights and the silhouettes of figures moving about through the windows. His heart raced with excitement at the prospect of finding what he sought within these walls.

There, he saw some inhabitants, along with North Star, hitting some drinks. There was a group of four alongside North Star which Shen assumed was the posse the star-shaped monster spoke about. There was a burly pink ogre-like monster wearing a small top hat and a tuxedo. Next to North Star was a cyan humanoid monster with fish elements, wearing musketeer-like armor and a beret, their eyes covered by part of their hair. There was also a gray humanoid monster with a fancy tuxedo, a large gray hat, bandanna, and a stoic expression, his face mostly unseen, as it's covered by his hat and bandanna. And lastly, there was a gray squirrel monster with purple hair, wearing a green coat and scarf.

Shen knew he had to play his cards right if he wanted to get any information, so he took a deep breath and smoothed his feathers before entering the saloon. The door swung open with a creak, and the chatter inside died down as all eyes fell on him. He strode in with all the confidence of a peacock in full display, his weaponry subtly tucked away and his tail feathers brushing against the ground.

"Who's this bird?" The ogre monster asked, eyeing Shen suspiciously as he approached the bar. His muscles flexed beneath his tuxedo, hinting at the power he could unleash if provoked.

Shen offered a charming smile, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of hostility or opportunity.

"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen," Shen greeted with a charming stride, "Now that we got the pleasantries out of the way, may I ask for a glass of your finest... whatever it is that flows around here?"

The patrons of the saloon looked at each other, some with curiosity, others with skepticism.

"That's some interesting lingo he's got there," The squirrel commented, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"He's got some nerve, comin' in here all dressed up and fancy," The ogre grunted.

Shen's smile didn't waver as he took a seat at the bar, his gaze flicking over to North Star. The sheriff raised an eyebrow but said nothing, taking a sip of his drink as he observed the newcomer.

"Took my word to heart, huh?" North Star said with a smirk, setting his glass down. "This here's the Oasis Saloon. And these fine monsters here are my posse, the Feisty Five. That's Ed, our resident bruiser, Moray, the quick-thinkin' youngster, Ace, our sharp-eyed scout, and Mooch, the sneakiest of the bunch."

He gestures to each member by their name, and they give a nod or a wave in response, except for Ace, who keeps his eyes on the poker game he's engaged in.

"And also, our team name is an acronym," North Star continued, his smirk never faltering. "It stands for..."

"Fearlessness!" Ed shouts as he strikes a confident pose, making the table wobble slightly under his weight.

"Excellence!" Moray exclaimed, raising a glass with a flourish.

"Intuition!" Ace called out, not bothering to look up from his cards.

"Sneakiness!" Mooch chimed in, flashing a toothy grin.

"Toughness!" Ed growled, flexing his muscular arm, making his top hat tilt slightly.

"Youthfulness!" Moray added with a laugh, slapping Ed playfully on the back. The ogre rolled his eyes and took a swig of his drink.

"Justice!" North Star cheered along. Shen, along with the rest of the posse, look back at their leader with a raised eyebrow. This causes the sheriff to sweat a bit.

"...Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, the 'J' is silent," he chuckled nervously.

It was slightly amusing to hear, though. "Feistyj Five?" This was coming from the same guy who pronounced duel as "dual" and didn't know the first thing about the place. The room chuckled at North Star's slip-up, and the tension eased slightly.

"So anyway, what brings a peacock like you to our neck of the woods?" North Star asked, leaning over the bar with a curious gaze. Shen's smile remained intact, his eyes shifting around the room, assessing each member of the Feisty Five.

Shen leaned back, feathers ruffling slightly.

"Oh, I'm just passing through, looking for a bit of entertainment," he replied smoothly.

"Well, if it's entertainment you're looking for, North Star here's a master at that," Moray chuckled, slapping North Star on the back. The fish monster's scales glinted under the soft glow of the saloon's lights. "But beware, his games can get pretty... explosive."

"It's because of his sense of justification," Ace spoke up, his voice as dry as the desert sands outside. "He's got a knack for finding trouble and calling it fun."

Shen's eyes gleamed with interest at the mention of 'explosive'. That was more like the entertainment he was seeking. He turned to North Star, his smile growing more genuine.

"I've been a master of explosive materials myself," Shen said, leaning closer to North Star. "Perhaps we can exchange notes sometime."

The sheriff's smile was as sharp as the blade of a knife.

"I'm sure we can," he drawled. "But first, tell us a little about yourself. You're not from around here, are you?"

Shen's feathers fluttered with a shrug.

"A wanderer," he said vaguely. "Seeking new lands, new opportunities. I've been a royal heir, but my parents... they wronged me for my beliefs. Now, I wish to start anew."

The Feisty Four exchanged glances, some more intrigued than others. It was clear that Shen was hiding something, but they were not ones to pry too deeply into the affairs of newcomers, especially those who knew their way around explosives.

"Well, welcome to the Wild East," North Star said, raising his glass. "But remember, we keep the peace around here. No funny business."

The warning in North Star's tone was clear, but Shen merely chuckled, his beak curving upwards in a disarming smile.

"I am also a creature of... ambition," Shen said, his eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief as he took the offered drink from the barkeeper. "I've merely had a bit of a setback, that's all."

He raises an eyebrow as he stares at the drink, filled with a fizzy blue liquid, but doesn't question it.

"What's this?" He asks, swirling the glass around.

"It's a local specialty," North Star replied with a wink, "Don't worry, it won't bite. Unless you're looking for a bite, if you know what I mean."

The room erupts into laughter, and even Shen can't help but chuckle. He takes a sip, the sweet, fizzy liquid tickling his throat. It's unlike anything he's ever tasted, but he enjoys the sensation. It's a small victory, blending in and being accepted, even if it's just for a moment.

As the evening wears on, Shen listens to the stories and tall tales spun by the monsters around him. He learns of the war between humanity and monsterkind and how the monsters lost and were sealed underground by an unbreakable barrier. The mention of human SOULs and the prophecy of seven human SOULs combined can break the barrier that could bring peace intrigues him. He keeps his true intentions hidden, playing the part of the charming stranger eager for companionship.

Clearing his throat, Shen stands up as his tail gently pats the ground.

"Well, this has been an amusing ride," Shen said, his voice smooth as silk. "But I believe I must get going. The night is still young, and I wouldn't want to miss out on the... other entertainment the valley has to offer."

He downed the rest of his drink, the fizz leaving a trail of coldness in his throat. The Feisty Five watched him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and wariness.

Shen gets up from his spot, his metal talons gently scraping the floor as his tail gently pats the ground. As he left, his smirk grew wider. He knew he had to find more details about these human SOULs. It could be his way back to power, a chance to prove that he hadn't gone soft in the afterlife.

As the door swung shut behind him, North Star's expression grew more serious.

"You guys feel like there's more to that peacock then meets the eye?" North Star asked his comrades, folding his hands together.

"He's got that 'I'm up to no good' vibe," Moray said, taking a sip of their drink.

"Yeah, but he's not the first one to come through here looking for power," Ace added. "Most of 'em don't make it out of the desert."

"But somethin' about him seems... different," Ed mused, stroking his chin thoughtfully.

"We should keep an eye on him," North Star decided, his gaze lingering on the closed door. "He's got a glint of something in his eye. I don't trust it."

"Yeah, he's definitely got a plan," Mooch nodded. "But he seems like the kind who'd keep it to himself."

The Feisty Four shared a look of understanding. They had seen their fair share of trouble wander through the Oasis, and they knew that Shen's story was likely far from the whole truth. Yet, they had their own battles to fight, and if this peacock was truly as dangerous as he seemed, he would reveal himself in time.

Meanwhile, Shen stepped out into the cool night air. The desert night was alive with the whispers of the sand and the distant calls of nighttime creatures, but he barely noticed.

He decides to explore around the sandyscape, his feathers fluttering in the breeze. The stars above shone like a sea of diamonds scattered across the velvet sky. The silence was only broken by the occasional whisper of the sand dunes and the distant sound of an owl's hoot. His thoughts were consumed by the power that could be his, if only he could get his talons on it.

He gazes upon a closed store that said "Weapons" with a fading "closed" sign hanging by one nail. Intrigued, he decides to investigate, pushing the door open with a gentle nudge from his rope dart.

Inside, the shelves are bare except for a dusty gun. It seems like this world has not seen the grandeur of his fireworks yet. He smirks, knowing that this would serve as a perfect starting point for his quest.

As he stared at the gun, he was hit with a hint of nostalgia. When he first made his cannons back in China, they had started as mere ideas. This gun was kind of like those cannons. Just much smaller and less impressive. But the concept was the same: to harness power and bend it to his will.

He also saw a dusty note by the front desk, which read:

Sorry, I am off store hours and will not sell you nothing! Please make it snappy and leave, or you'll regret taking my premium wares without say! Again, do NOT touch anything here!

That means YOU, North Star.

- Blackjack

Shen couldn't help but chuckle at the note. It was clear that the owner, Blackjack, had a history with North Star. He picked up the gun, feeling the cold metal in his grasp. It was a simple firearm, but in his hands, it could become something far greater. He tucked it into his robe, feeling the weight of his newfound power.

As he left the weapons store, Shen's thoughts turned to these human SOULs. He wasn't even sure what a human is, but if it could give him power, then he would do anything to obtain them. His eyes glinted with malicious intent as he contemplated the chaos he could unleash.

Glancing at one of the rocky walls far away, Shen's eyes gaze upon a faintly glowing sweltering stone wedged into the side. Was it similar to the explosive he used on the vines in the Spirit Realm? Perhaps, with enough study, he could replicate that power here. He heads towards it, the gun in his grasp feeling heavier with each step.

As he nears the stone, its warmth becomes palpable. He senses its power, a power that could be his if he could just figure out how to harness it. He raises the gun, aiming at the stone, and pulls the trigger.

...

Nothing happened.

A low growl escapes Shen's lips. It seems this weapon isn't what he thought it would be. He examines the gun more closely, noticing the strange mechanism. It's unlike anything he's ever seen, and the ammo seems to be... empty.

Looking back at the stone, he gains an idea. He remembers thirty years ago when he experimented with firework powder before his banishment from Gongmen City. He had found that mixing it with certain materials could make it more volatile, more explosive. What if he could do the same with this stone's power?

He grabs his lance and shoves it near the edge of the stone, and takes it out of the wall. Then he begins to pull out the leftover powder he grabbed onto before the vines sent him flying into this world.

He mixes it with the heat of the stone, creating a makeshift explosive. He then takes a step back, opening the compartment to fill up the dusty powder as ammo.

With a twirl of his robe, Shen takes aim at the glowing stone once more, his heart pounding with excitement as the gun was filled with this powder as essential ammo. Now with filled ammo, he aims the gun at the wall and pulls the trigger.

POP!

The gunshot echoes through the dunes, shooting out an explosive red pellet as light red sparks escape the mouth of the gun. When the pellet hits the wall, it explodes with a thunderous boom, sending chunks of sandstone flying and leaving a smoldering crater in its wake.

Shen's feathers stand on end with excitement, his eyes alight with the thrill of discovery. The power within this realm was indeed different, but not unmanageable. He'll be sure to come back here and find more of these sweltering stones. He takes a moment to admire his handiwork before the sound of rushing footsteps pierces the silence.

Knowing he is about to be caught, Shen decides to make a needy escape. He tucks the gun back into his robe and sprints away from the explosion site, his metal-tipped talons digging into the sand as he weaves between the dunes. The Feisty Five had probably heard the commotion and were on their way, and he wasn't in the mood for a confrontation yet. Not when he had so much to learn about this new world.

But rather than the Feisty Five, who arrived was a large, purple monster with round glasses, a wide curvy gray mustache, and wearing a purple shirt with white sleeves, and a brown vest, fit with blue baggy pants and large gray boots.

The monster face palms as he sees the explosive site at the wall near his store.

"Curse you, North Star!" he shouts, waving his fist in the air.

later...

Shen arrives back at the Oasis Valley, managing to get away from prying eyes. He's exhilarated by the power he's just unlocked. The gun is a relic of his past life, but now it's a tool for his future in this new world.

As he struts through the streets, he can't help but feel like he's missed the thrill of power for too long. Suddenly, his eyes set upon a newcomer.

The gray fox monster, Chujin, walked into a path Shen had not walked through before. Chujin's head was lowered, sulking in a depressed state. He was holding a piece of paper he has gotten from his workplace before leaving. It read:

Dear Engineer Chujin Ketsukane,

We have received complaints of your latest experiment causing disturbances. Your continuation of your 'Axis' models is hereby prohibited, as your progress has been deemed a risk to our monsterkind.

As a result, we at Steamworks have hereby agreed to terminate your position effective immediately. Please vacate the premises at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely, Steamworks Management Branch. Tomorrow means the Surface!

With a keen smirk, Shen decided to follow him, seeing the potential in his misery. He knew that a desperate creature was often the most useful.

Chujin walks up to a gate, looking around to ensure no one was following him. He grabs a key and unlocks the gate before entering the vicinity and locking it behind him, continuing his sulking walk.

Shen looks at the gate, letting out a sinister chuckle. As a peacock, he can just fly over, albeit for a brief period of time. Though he has to plan this carefully, as to not attract unwanted attention.

Giving the saloon one last glance, he takes a deep breath and sprints, leaping into the air and using his wing power to glide over the gate. His feathers ruffle as he lands softly on the other side, the dust from the Dunes puffing up around him. He straightens up, brushing off his robe.

Shen looks up as he sees a large estate that looked like a black and red dojo standing tall against the night sky. His curiosity piqued, he follows Chujin's footsteps, trying to stay hidden in the shadows of the dunes.

Inside the estate, the kitchen table was packed with activity. There was a light beige kitsune-like monster with large ginger hair tied in a ponytail with a red ribbon, dressed in a white kimono with a red belt, and white boots. There was also a younger kitsune around ten years old. She has brown fur, short dark brown hair that is also tied with a red ribbon, wearing a short magenta kimono, a scarf, gray pants, and small boots.

The room was filled with the scent of spices and cooking meat, as they were preparing a meal for their returning family member, Chujin. The beige kitsune's sharp eyes noticed something was off about her husband's demeanor as soon as he walked in, his shoulders slumped and his tail between his legs.

"What's wrong, dear?" The beige kitsune asked, setting down her knife as she approached Chujin. Her eyes searched his, looking for the source of his sadness.

Chujin sighed heavily, his tail flicking behind him.

"It's nothing, Ceroba," Chujin replied, avoiding her gaze. "Just a minor setback with my latest invention."

"I can see that, you look exhausted," Ceroba said gently, placing a hand on Chujin's shoulder. "But you know you can talk to me about anything."

The younger dark brown fox looked up from her task of peeling vegetables, her eyes wide with concern.

"Is everything okay, Daddy?" she asked, her small voice filled with worry as she looked up at her father.

Chujin forced a smile, trying to shield his daughter from his troubles.

"Everything's fine, Kanako sweetheart," he assured her, ruffling her fur gently. "Just some grown-up problems. Daddy's had a long day working."

Ceroba nodded, though her eyes remained on the paper in his hand. She knew her husband's work at Steamworks was important, but she also knew that setbacks could be devastating for him.

Shen hovered near the window, listening intently to the conversation. He could sense the tension in the room, the unspoken words hanging in the air. It was clear that Chujin had encountered a significant setback, and Shen knew that desperation made for powerful alliances.

He watched as Ceroba and Kanako exchanged a knowing look, their expressions a mix of sympathy and concern. The young kitsune returned to her work, but Shen could see her glancing over at her father every now and then.

He waited patiently as the family finished making dinner, where Ceroba sets the plates of food before them. The smells were heavenly, a stark contrast to the despair that hung in the air. Shen knew that now was not the time to make his presence known, so he waited, his sharp eyes gleaming in the dark.

"What happened today?" Ceroba pressed, her eyes never leaving her husband's face.

Chujin sighed, sitting down at the table heavily.

"I'm... retiring," He lies, blurting it out after a second of silence.

"...What?" Ceroba uttered, taken aback by the brief sentence.

"I am retiring from my job at the Steamworks," Chujin clarified, his voice filled with defeat. "I have encountered many setbacks before, but I am still going to think of something. Something... that will bring monsterkind's hopes and dreams back in full swing."

Shen's ears perked up at the mention of "monsterkind's hopes and dreams." It seemed Chujin was not just an inventor, but a man with a vision, a dreamer. This was precisely the type of ally he needed.

"You can't retire!" Ceroba cried out, her eyes wide with shock. "Your inventions are what keep this place running!"

"I know, but I can't keep putting everyone in danger," Chujin said, his voice laced with guilt. "I must get my act together, and I will turn over a new leaf. I can promise you that."

Kanako looked up from her plate, her eyes shimmering with hope.

"Daddy, you can't quit," she protested. "Your inventions are amazing!"

Chujin's expression softened as he looked at his daughter.

"Thank you, Kanako," he said, his voice gentle. "But sometimes, we have to make sacrifices for the greater good."

Shen stepped away from the window, his thoughts racing. This was the perfect opportunity to present himself as a savior, to offer Chujin the power and recognition he craved.

"But now that I think about it... one of my clients in Snowdin asked for my assistance," Chujin murmured, his thoughts drifting as he picked at his food. "They have some unique materials that could be just what I need to make something that won't fail."

The mention of Snowdin made Shen's heart race. If Chujin had connections to that frozen wasteland, perhaps he could be the key to obtaining the human SOULs he needed to fuel his new weapon.

"Can I come with you, Daddy?" Kanako's voice was filled with excitement, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "I can get to play with my friends in the snow!"

Ceroba nodded in agreement.

"It might be good for her to get out of the house and have some fun," she said, her eyes still on Chujin. "But only if it's safe."

"Of course, I will not let anything happen to her," Chujin promised, though his voice was hollow.

Shen watched the exchange with a keen eye. The fox's desperation was palpable, and the mention of unique materials in Snowdin only served to fuel his own desire for power. He knew he had to act fast, and checking out Snowdin was a start.

Shen felt the tension in the room shift, a new opportunity presenting itself. He knew that Chujin was hiding something significant, something that could be the key to gaining power in this new world. As the family finished their meal, the peacock prince waited patiently for them to retire for the night.

The moon cast a silver light over the desert as Shen approached the estate's gate once more. His feathers fluttered in the cool breeze, his mind racing with possibilities. He decides to wait find out where Snowdin is and wait there before he can bring chaos to this place. He knew that the fox family was the key to his new beginnings, and he wasn't about to let them out of his sights.

Later that night after dinner, on the second floor, Ceroba was tucking Kanako into bed, her eyes reflecting the warm glow of the moon outside the window.

"Love you lots," Ceroba said.

"How much do you love me?" Kanako asked, her eyes gleaming with that stubborn mischief. Ceroba glances around before looking back at Kanako.

"My love for you could shatter the barrier alone," Ceroba replied with a soft smile, bending down to kiss her daughter's forehead. She tucked the blankets around her snugly, whispering sweet nothings into her ear.

"Hehehe, that's not true!" Kanako giggled, trying to hide her yawns.

Ceroba ruffled her daughter's fur gently.

"It's okay, you can tell me the truth," she whispered. "You're concerned about Daddy, aren't you?"

Kanako's giggles faded, and she nodded solemnly.

"I know he's sad, Mommy," she said, her eyes reflecting the same concern that Ceroba felt. "But we'll find a way to make him happy again, right?"

Ceroba squeezed Kanako's paw, trying to hide her own fears.

"Of course we will, sweetheart," she assured her. "But for now, let's get some rest. Tomorrow is a new day, and we'll face it together. Besides, when it's time for you to go on the trip, we can't have you feeling sad, can we?"

Kanako's eyes lit up at the mention of the trip with Chujin that was touched upon at the dinner table.

"Yeah, I can't wait!" she exclaimed, snuggling into the warmth of her bed. "I'm gonna find something amazing in Snowdin!"

Her enthusiasm brought a genuine smile to Ceroba's face.

"Goodnight, my little star," she said, kissing her forehead again before leaving the room, gently closing the door.

In the hallway, Ceroba paused, listening for any signs of Chujin. She could hear his footsteps downstairs, the clink of metal on metal. He was probably working on something, trying to find a solution to his recent troubles.

When Ceroba went back downstairs, she saw Chujin in the kitchen, seemingly adjusting the table settings. She approached him gently, her fur brushing against his.

"Is everything okay, love?" she asked, her voice a soft whisper in the quiet room.

Chujin jumped, spinning around to face her. His eyes were bloodshot, and his fur was ruffled from his earlier frustrations.

"I'm fine," he said, his voice strained. "Just... organizing some things."

Ceroba didn't buy it for a second. She knew her husband too well. His mind was racing, his hands fidgeting with the table settings as if they could somehow fix the turmoil in his soul.

"Okay, what's actually going on?" Ceroba pressed, her voice a mix of concern and determination. She knew Chujin was keeping something from her, and she wasn't going to let it rest.

He sighed heavily, setting down the silverware he'd been fidgeting with.

"It's nothing," Chujin said, his eyes avoiding hers. "Just... work-related stress. Believe me."

Ceroba studied him for a moment, her expression filled with skepticism. Finally, she nodded and sighs softly.

"If you say so," she replied. "But if you ever need to talk, I'm here. Please, just... go get some rest. We can deal with this tomorrow."

Chujin nodded, his shoulders slumping in defeat. He knew Ceroba could see through his facade, but he couldn't bring himself to admit the truth just yet. He kissed her gently on the cheek and retreated to their shared bedroom. Ceroba watched him go with a heavy heart, her mind racing with the implications of his secret.

Shen, hidden in the shadows outside the estate, felt the tension in the air. He knew that the gray fox was hiding something significant, and he was more eager than ever to get his feathers on it. The thought of using Chujin's expertise and knowledge of the Underground to his advantage brought a malicious grin to his beak.

"Little by little, this place will be mine," Shen whispered to himself before he struts away from the estate, his feathers fluttering with excitement. His eyes gleamed in the moonlight as he plotted his next move. He had to find this Snowdin and get his hands on those unique materials before anyone else did.

Chapter Text

previously, as the events of chapter 2 are occurring...

Deep within the ruins, a peek of sunlight shines through. Atop of it was Mount Ebott, a treacherous mountain where anyone who entered has never returned. This was because it served as a hole where humans who wander fall into the monsters' world.

A human child groans as they slowly get up. The human has dark skin, brown hair tied in a bun, and their clothing consists of a blue tank top, a pink tutu, blue leggings, and pink ballet shoes. They have wandered into Mount Ebott under the impression of previous humans that wound up here gone missing, until they accidentally fell into the hole.

The human walks along a path, where a gate was seen. There, the human sees a small patch of grass, along with another gate up ahead.

Footsteps are heard as a figure walks from the gate. It was a large white goat lady, wearing a large purple robe with a mysterious white symbol consisting of a circle, two wings adjacent to it, and three triangles.

"Ah, hello," The goat lady greeted, "Are you alright?"

The human, still disoriented, nodded slowly.

"You must be wondering what is going on," The goat lady mused, "I am Toriel, caretaker of the Ruins. I check by this place every day to see if anyone has fallen down. But it doesn't happen often. You are the first human to come here in a long time."

The human took in their surroundings with wide eyes. The place was eerie yet somehow comforting, the stark contrast of the ruins' cold stones and the patch of green grass.

"Do not be afraid, little one," Toriel assured, "I promise I will protect you here. Come, I shall guide you through the catacombs."

The human followed Toriel through the gate and into the ruins. The walls were lined with ancient carvings and signs that told a story of a time long forgotten. The air was thick, but there were red flower petals scattered around.

"My name is Melody," the human spoke up, their voice small yet firm. Toriel looked down at the young soul with curiosity and kindness.

"Melody... what a beautiful name, little one," Toriel said with a warm smile. Her eyes held a motherly concern that made Melody feel a little less alone in this bizarre place. "You must be quite the adventurer to find yourself here."

Melody couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement at the thought of being an adventurer. It was something they had always dreamed of back in their mundane human life. But the reality was quickly setting in, and fear began to creep into their heart.

The two climb a small stairwell and walk into the next room, where they were greeted with a locked door and six gray switches on the ground.

"The Ruins are full of puzzles," Toriel reminded, "Ancient fusions between diversions and doorkeys. They must be solved in order to move from room to room. Allow me to demonstrate."

Toriel walks on two switches on away from the lightened path of two others, then steps on two more switches above the two she stepped on. She then walks to a yellow switch and presses it, where the door opens.

"We are free to proceed now," Toriel replied, "Follow me, my child. There are more puzzles ahead."

Melody nodded and stepped into the room, their eyes widening as they take in the scene around them. There were more switches on walls, platforms and small bodies of water abound.

some time later...

It was a gentle journey as Toriel guided the human child through the Ruins, as she knew the puzzles more than anyone else. They soon made it to Toriel's home, opting to keep the human in her care.

During the rest of that day, Toriel told the human stories, gave them a room to sleep in, and made them a delicious batch of butterscotch-cinnamon pie, which the human has loved.

The next day, after waking up, Melody grew curious about the basement that can easily be seen upon walking in. The human walked a long path to see a door. It seems to have led to the exit from the Ruins.

To be fair, the human really enjoyed Toriel's company. The caring and compassionate nature was staggering and they were thankful for it. However, they didn't want to stay here for long. They needed to go back home.

So, turning back one last time, Melody opens the door and leaves the warmth of the Ruins. Hopefully, their journey to the surface wouldn't be as treacherous.

Some time later, Toriel noticed the human's disappearance and grew panicked. She checked every room in the house, even some close parts of the Ruins, but there was no sign of them. Then Toriel's eyes widen in horror.

She made it to the basement and looked at the door. It was clear that the human left, and she lowers her head, fearing for their worst.

"Please, my child... be careful," She murmured, "They... ASGORE... won't hesitate to take your SOUL. Promise me you'll stay safe."

She stays at the door for a few seconds before letting out a sigh and makes her way back upstairs. The house felt empty without the human's presence, their laughter echoing in the silence.

Toriel knew she couldn't force them to stay, the Ruins gets small once you get used to them. But the thought of what could happen outside made her heart ache. As she reached the living room, she noticed a pink tutu fluttering in the breeze from the open door. She picked it up, clutching it tightly, a silent promise to watch over the human child.

back to the present!

There were two parts of Snowdin. One was close to the Ruins, which was often inhabited. But then there was another part of Snowdin that wasn't often explored, shown with different monsters that call this part their home.

This part of Snowdin has a large family-operated business building called the Honeydew Resort, where monsters can go to de-stress and relax. A pair of footsteps walk near the vicinity, where the ones revealed were Chujin and Kanako, who kept their normal kimonos on since their fur is helping to protect them from the cold.

Chujin was speaking to Kanako, his voice filled with excitement.

"You'll love it here, Kanako," he said, his eyes lighting up. "This is where we can find new friends, and maybe even some inspiration for my next big work."

Kanako nodded, her eyes wide with excitement. Despite her young age, she understood the gravity of the situation. She knew her father was hurting, and she wanted to support him in any way she could.

"Daddy, I promise to stay by your side," she said, taking his hand.

Their bond was strong, and Chujin felt a flicker of hope in his heart. Maybe together, they could find a way to mend the damage he had done and restore peace to the underground.

As they approached the Honeydew Resort, the sound of laughter and cheerful chatter filled the air, muffled by the thick blanket of snow. The warm glow from the windows promised comfort and safety from the harsh winter outside.

Chujin led the way, his steps slightly more determined than before. The resort was bustling with life, monsters of all shapes and sizes moving about, enjoying the simple pleasures of a warm meal and good company. The scent of roasting meat and sweet pastries filled the air, making Kanako's stomach growl.

As they entered the cozy lobby, a cheerful pink bear monster with a green coat greeted them.

"Welcome to the Honeydew Resort!" She chirped. "How may I assist you today?"

Chujin cleared his throat, his grip on Kanako's hand tightening slightly.

"We're looking for unique materials," he began, "I've gotten a call from one of my clients and they've requested my assistance around this resort. I've heard Martlet was also here."

The receptionist's smile grew wider.

"Oh, yes! Martlet is here," she said. "She's been waiting for you. She's in the workshop around the back. She's been busy with her own things, but is waiting for approval before mentioning it to you. Perhaps you two could use some catching up!"

Chujin nodded gratefully, and the two made their way to the back. The workshop was a warm and cozy place, filled with the smell of hot metal and the faint scent of feathers. It was surprisingly large, with various machines and materials scattered around.

When they entered, Chujin looks back down at her daughter.

"Wait here for a while, okay?" He told the young kitsune. "This is adult business only."

Kanako nodded solemnly and took a seat on a nearby bench, her tail swishing nervously. She knew that her father had important things to discuss with Martlet, and she didn't want to get in the way. As she waited, she couldn't help but overhear snippets of their conversation, her curiosity growing with every whispered word.

Being the young child she is, her attention span started to wear thin. So she got up from her seat and made it back to the lobby resort.

The pink bear monster noticed her and tilted her head in curiosity.

"Is everything alright, young one?" She asked.

Kanako nodded, her eyes shifting to the warm fireplace.

"I'm just... bored," Kanako groaned, "I want to go outside and play in the snow."

The receptionist looked out the window at the gentle flurries of snow falling outside.

"It's a bit chilly out there," she said, "but I suppose some fresh air wouldn't hurt. Just be careful not to get lost, okay?"

Kanako nodded eagerly, pulling her hood over her head and rushing out into the snow. She giggled as the cold flakes kissed her cheeks, and she took off into the whiteness, her paws leaving little tracks behind her.

The snow was pristine, untouched by any other creature. She felt a thrill of adventure as she ventured deeper into the snowy landscape. The cold air was bracing, filling her lungs with energy and joy. Her eyes lit up as she spotted a snowbank perfect for a snowball fight.

She then glanced around to see a mysterious figure walking along. He had a purple complexion, fix with fangs and horns, like a vampire. His hair was a darker purple, his ears were pointy, and he wore a dark gray cloak. Kanako's mouth shapes into a small 'o' as she recognizes the creature.

"Dalv!" She calls out to him, running towards the vampire monster. The vampire, Dalv, turns his head to the young kitsune.

"Kanako?" He murmured. When the small girl neared, he couldn't help but show a smile. "What brings you out here, little one?" He asked.

"I was looking for someone to play with!" She exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement, "Will you play with me?"

Dalv hesitated, his smile faltering slightly. He knew the risks of playing with the young and energetic. His vampiric nature made it difficult to be around those full of life. However, he also knew the importance of companionship, especially considering how awkward he is socially. He nodded slowly.

"Alright," He replied, "But we'll keep it simple, yes?"

Kanako's tail wagged with excitement.

"Yay!" She exclaimed.

Dalv followed her outside, the cold not bothering him much. They found a spot in the snow, and Kanako began to pile up snow with her paws.

"We can build a snowman," she suggested, looking up at Dalv with hope in her eyes.

Dalv nodded, trying to hide his apprehension. He hadn't interacted with children much since he arrived in the underground, preferring the quiet solitude of the library. But something about Kanako's innocence and cheerfulness was infectious. He couldn't help but feel drawn to her light.

They worked together, Dalv's large hands gently shaping the snow as Kanako giggled and piled it onto the growing form. The air was filled with her laughter and the sound of their breath in the cold. The snow crunched beneath their feet, and the occasional gust of wind sent shivers through their fur. Despite the chill, there was warmth in their hearts.

As they built, Dalv couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The snowfall was heavier than usual, and the air felt charged with tension. He had heard whispers of strange happenings in Snowdin, but he had dismissed them as the usual monster gossip. Yet, as he watched the snowflakes dance in the flickering light of the setting sun, he felt a sense of unease growing within him.

Meanwhile, Melody wound up in this unusual part of Snowdin following a diversion from a puzzle set by a "cool skeleton." That's when they wound up outside the resort where they saw Dalv and Kanako playing. Melody, feeling a bit cautious, approached them.

Both Dalv and Kanako turn their heads, noticing the human approaching. Dalv begins to sweat, despite the cold weather they are currently in.

"I-Is that a-a-a... a human???" Dalv stuttered, his eyes wide with shock. His hands froze mid-snowball, and his smile disappeared. "What is it doing here?"

The human gets in a steady position, as if it looks threatening.

"Dalv?" Kanako whispered, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the human approach. "Is it okay?"

"Uh... stay behind me, Kanako," Dalv murmured, his heart racing. He had never been this close to a human before. Kanako did as she was told and hides beneath Dalv's hidden leg.

The human got into a stance, as if they were preparing for an attack. Dalv was unsure if this was a threat, or if the human did actually come to harm them. Mustering up some energy, his palm grows some electrical energy, as a way to say stay back. When suddenly...

SHING!

A trio of metallic blades were thrown in-between them. They didn't look like ordinary blades, but it looked like they were... sharp feathers?

A sadistic chuckle pierces the chilly air as Lord Shen emerges from the shadows of a nearby tree, feather blades at the ready. His sharp eyes scan the area, and when they land near Melody, a twisted smile forms on his beak.

"Here I am waiting for the right moment to strike, and you just come here together and make my job easier!" Shen boasted, his feathers fluttering in the cold wind. His eyes gleamed with malicious intent, and his stance was that of a predator eyeing its prey.

Dalv's eyes narrowed, the electrical charge around his hand growing stronger. He knew that humans were dangerous, but this peacock that suddenly intruded on their playtime was the greater threat. He stepped in front of Kanako, his posture protective.

"What do you want?" He demanded, his voice steady despite his racing heart.

Melody looked at the peacock with confusion, raising their hands in a surrendering disposition.

"That's one already on their knees," Shen sneered, his gaze flickering from Dalv's defensive stance to Melody's confused one. "But the question remains, which one of you will I take first?"

Melody's eyes widened at the mention of taking them. They knew little about the prophecy or the power held within, but they weren't about to let some crazy peacock with a vendetta ruin their day.

"Why would you do that?" They questioned, their voice firm but shaky.

Shen's smile grew wider.

"Why? Because it's fun!" He exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "And because I can! With power like mine, who can possibly stand in my way?"

He took a step closer, and Dalv could see the madness dancing in Lord Shen's eyes. He knew that the peacock was dangerous and not to be underestimated.

"Stay back," Dalv warned, his voice low and serious, the electrical charge around his hand crackling with intensity.

Melody, still standing firm, studied the peacock with a mix of curiosity and defiance. They had encountered strange creatures before during their journey, but something about this one felt... off. They could sense the darkness in his heart, the thirst for power that seemed to radiate from his very being.

"I don't know what your deal is," Melody began, trying to keep their voice steady, "But you're not going to scare us away that easily."

Shen tilted his head, feathers rustling with amusement.

"Ah, the spirit of a warrior. How delightful," he said with a sneer. "But let me show you just how much fear you should truly feel."

In an instant, he grabbed hold of his curved lance and charged towards them. Dalv reacted swiftly, his hand shooting out a bolt of electricity to intercept the attack. The crackling energy met with a burst of sparks from Shen's weapon, showering down in a macabre trail deep in the snow.

Kanako looked at the explosion with a mix of awe and terror, her tail curling up tightly. She had never seen anything like this before. Her heart raced as she watched her friend and the human stand firm against the peacock monster.

The battle was fierce, with Lord Shen's feather blades and lance clashing against Dalv's electricity. The sound of metal and feathers scraping against each other echoed through the once peaceful snowy landscape. The air grew hot with the scent of burnt feathers and ozone.

Melody took a step back, their eyes darting from the fight to the surroundings. They noticed the panic spreading among the monsters who had been watching from the safety of the Honeydew Resort. It was clear that Shen's presence had brought fear and chaos to this tranquil part of Snowdin.

With a deep breath, Melody decided they couldn't just stand there. They had to do something, even if they didn't fully understand the situation. Drawing upon their instincts and the lessons learned from Toriel, they searched the area for anything that could be of use.

Their gaze fell upon a nearby stall selling various snow-themed goods. Quickly, they dashed over, their tutu fluttering behind them, and grabbed a handful of snowballs. They weren't sure if they could fight the way Dalv and the peacock were, but they knew they could at least distract the enemy.

With a determined look, Melody packed a snowball tightly and threw it at Shen's face. The icy projectile hit its mark, momentarily blinding him and causing him to stumble back. A screeching squawk was heard the moment the snowball made impact. His madness-filled eyes were bloodshot within a couple seconds.

"Agh! That smarts!" Shen yelled, shaking his head to rid himself of the snow. His eyes snapped to Melody, now seeing the human as more than a mere nuisance. "You dare to interfere!?"

With a swift motion, Shen launched a volley of sharp, fiery feathers at Melody. The human panicked and dove to the side, but not before one of the feathers grazed their arm, leaving a burn that stung like a thousand bees. They rolled back up onto their feet, their eyes now burning with a newfound resolve.

Dalv took advantage of the brief distraction, sending a powerful bolt of electricity at Shen. The peacock squawked in fury, his feathers standing on end as the current surged through his body. However, instead of being incapacitated, the electricity seemed to charge his weapon, the curvy tips sending a tiny trail of sparks with each hit.

With a twirl of his lance, Shen redirected the energy into the ground, creating a shockwave that sent Dalv stumbling backward. The snow around them melted into steam, leaving a scorched path.

"Impressive," Shen sneered, his eyes flickering with a hint of admiration. "But not enough to stop me from claiming what I seek."

"You're not welcome to hurt me or anyone else with your... twisted fantasies," Dalv spat out, his voice laced with anger and fear. His hands began to glow with a more intense light, the electricity crackling around his fingertips like a living entity ready to strike.

"Maybe not with the sharpest blades, and you'd be right... but I have something far more terrorizing," Shen chuckled darkly, reaching into his robe and pulling out a peculiar gun. It was cold to the touch, with a barrel that looked like a miniature cannon. The faint smell of gunpowder wafts through the air.

He loaded it as he opens his tail out, a wide display of feathers with the tips showing a red circle, like an eyeball or a sun, distracting both Dalv and Kanako. Their eyes were gazed on the symbol, a mix of fear and curiosity, and with a cackle, Shen fired.

POP!

When Shen closed his tail feathers, the first thing Kanako and Dalv saw was the human child on their knees. The snow around the human child grew more crimson as they held their chest, slightly revealing the gunshot that wounded them head-on.

And as soon as it was realized, the human collapses to the ground, a crimson stain spreading from their chest. The snow around them was now a mix of red and white from the explosion. Dalv's heart skipped a beat, realizing that the peacock's power was not to be underestimated.

This was madness. He just shot the human, right in front of them! Sure, monsters alike were afraid of humans and their tactical strength, but to see one shot down with such ease was a horror that made Dalv's blood boil. The vampire's grip on his electrical powers grew stronger, and his eyes glowed a fiery red.

"Dalv, be careful!" Kanako yelled from behind him. Her voice was shaking, but it was filled with a newfound bravery that made Dalv's chest swell with pride.

The vampire monster took a deep breath, focusing his energy. He knew he had to protect both the now-dead human and his young friend. He charged at Shen, his fists crackling with electricity. The peacock lord merely smirked, aiming his gun at Dalv.

"You think your little tricks can match the power of a weapon forged in the materials of fireworks?" Shen taunted, his smugness clear as he leveled the gun at Dalv.

Dalv didn't answer with words but with a fierce roar. He lunged forward, his fists crackling with a more intense electricity than before. The air around him sizzled as he threw a punch, aiming to knock the gun from Shen's hand.

Shen, unfazed, simply sidestepped the attack with a grace that belied his size. He twirled his gun in a flourish, his eyes never leaving Dalv's.

"Oh, you really think you can stop me," he mused, "but it won't be enough. Nothing will stand in my way."

Shen fired another shot, but Dalv was ready. He leapt into the air, the electricity arcing around him like a living force field. The shot hit the barrier, and the resulting explosion sent a shockwave through the air, knocking both combatants back.

Kanako watched in horror as the snow around them was painted with a crimson spray, and she could feel the warmth of the explosion even from where she was hiding. Tears welled up in her eyes as she saw Dalv's desperate survival and Melody's limp form lying in the snow.

Her fear turned into anger, and she knew she couldn't just stand there anymore. With a fierce growl, she dashed out from behind Dalv, her eyes glowing a fiery orange. She didn't know what she was going to do, but she knew she had to protect her new friend.

"Kanako, wait!" Dalv called out, his eyes flicking between the enraged peacock and the trembling young kitsune. But she was beyond his reach now, driven by a fiery determination that was both heartwarming and terrifying.

Shen turned to face the new threat, his smirk fading into a look of surprise. He had not anticipated such valor from one so young. He took a moment to size her up, the gun still smoking in his hand.

In an instant, his tail swished around, and his gun was pointed at Kanako.

"Ah, so the little fox wishes to play hero," Shen sneered, his eyes glinting with amusement. "How... adorable. You're the child of that one with the dream... Chujin, was it?"

Kanako's eyes narrowed, her fur bristling.

"You leave my Daddy out of this!" she snarled.

The sound of her voice seemed to shake the very air around them. Dalv felt his heart swell with hope and pride. This was the same little girl who had been afraid of her own shadow just moments ago.

"I don't know who you are or what you want," Dalv snarled, his fists crackling with electricity, "but you won't lay a feather on her or anyone else."

Shen's smile grew wider, the muzzle of his gun not wavering from the young kitsune.

"You dare to challenge me?" He taunted, his eyes alight with a dark amusement. "Your kind always does, but in the end, you will all fall before me."

His tail opens up as he hoists it in the air, sending a threatening display of that symbol all around the tips of his feathers. Both Dalv and Kanako could not keep their eyes on it, it was like it was hypnotizing them, and for a split second, they both felt a sense of fear and dread wash over them.

And once the tail lowers, Shen strikes. He fires the gun rapidly, sending a barrage of fiery pellets toward Dalv and Kanako. Dalv instinctively throws up a shield of electricity, the bolts of energy crackling and sizzling as they absorb the impact of the feathers. The smell of burning hair fills the air as the feathers cling to the shield before disintegrating into ashes.

Kanako stuck close to Dalv's side, her eyes never leaving the peacock's smug grin. The heat from the feathers was intense, but she could feel the warmth of Dalv's protective aura wrapping around her, giving her courage. She hoped that her father, Chujin, wasn't hurt or in trouble because of this mad peacock.

meanwhile...

Chujin was busy at work. As requested, he went to help with some architectural work with his clients, and in return, received some Snowdin-exclusive materials. He and Martlet spoke to each other about their day so far while on break.

And while alone, Chujin decided to use some of these materials on his next model for Axis. This model is... what, the fourteenth one? He thought to himself, chuckling at his own stubbornness. Axis was his pride and joy, a creation that was supposed to keep the Steamworks safe and productive, yet it remained stubbornly imperfect.

As Chujin worked tirelessly on the new model, Martlet hovered over him, her cyan feathers ruffling with excitement.

"Whoa! What is that?" She asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity as she pointed at the robot Chujin was tinkering with.

"It's Axis," Chujin replied, not looking up from his work. "The newest iteration of my robotic guardian for the Steamworks."

"It looks... powerful," Martlet said, her voice filled with awe.

"Yeah, well... it's supposed to be," Chujin said, a hint of pride in his voice. "But let's hope this one doesn't blow a fuse within a few seconds. I've been trying to get these models stable since I first pitched the idea."

The sound of explosions in the distance made both of them freeze. Martlet's eyes widened with fear, while Chujin's narrowed with concern.

"Um... Mr. Ketsukane, did you hear that?" Martlet whispered, her voice quivering as the echoes of the explosions grew louder.

Chujin's grip tightened on his tools, his mind racing.

"Yes, I did," he said grimly, setting them aside. "That doesn't sound good. And also, please don't be so formal with me. Call me Chujin."

He stood up, his gray fur bristling as he picked up the sound of... what seems to be fireworks. These weren't normal explosions, they were something else entirely.

"...Martlet, find the citizens of Snowdin and evacuate them to a safer part of the town," Chujin said, his voice firm as he turned to the cyan bird monster. "Tell them to stay there until further notice."

Her eyes widened, but she nodded quickly and took off, her wings flapping frantically as she disappeared into the cold air. Chujin's heart pounded in his chest as he saw some snow monsters rushing towards him.

"Chujin! What's happening?" A panicked voice called out. "It's a horrifying sight of fireworks on the ground! I caught a glimpse of a peacock with a gun and a human fighting! Is it a show?"

Chujin's eyes widened as he recognized the voice as one of his trusted Snowdin townsfolk.

"No, it's not a show," he said, his voice urgent. "Get to safety immediately. I'll handle it."

Without another word, the monsters continued to run off in the other direction. Chujin quickly finishes putting the last touched on Axis before turning it on. The robot's eyes glow pink before its arms move around.

"AXIS MODEL 014 READY TO GUARD AND PROTECT," the robot's voice boomed out, much to Chujin's relief. The newest model seemed more stable than the previous ones. It was about time.

"Axis, can you scan me? I need to give you urgent directions," Chujin ordered, his voice steady despite the worry etched on his features. A gentle white beam from Axis's eyes scan Chujin up and down for a couple seconds before it retracts.

"SUBJECT IDENTIFIED AS: CHUJIN KETSUKANE. GREETINGS, CREATOR," Axis spoke, its voice a mix of mechanical precision and a hint of curiosity. "BASED OFF THE SCANNING PROCESS, I READ THAT YOU ARE IN NEED OF ASSISTANCE. PLEASURE TO BE OF SERVICE."

"Thank you, Axis," Chujin said, trying to keep the urgency out of his voice. "We have an intruder in Snowdin. There's a human, and there's, um... a peacock with a gun. I need you to find either one of those two and apprehend them immediately. Use non-lethal force if possible."

Axis's eyes turn purple for a moment.

"ADDED 'HUMAN' AND 'PEACOCK WITH A GUN' TO 'CURRENT OBJECTIVES' LIST," Axis confirmed. "PURSUING TARGETS FOR 'NON-LETHAL APPREHENSION'."

With a metallic whirl, Axis took off into the snowstorm, its newfound stability evident in its swift, precise movements. Chujin watched his creation disappear into the chaos, feeling a mix of hope and fear. He knew Axis could handle the situation, but the thought of his daughter in danger weighed heavily on his mind. He couldn't help but wonder if his own stubbornness had brought this calamity to their doorstep.

Far away, Dalv was weakened from the amount of energy he put into his fight. While not mortally wounded by Shen's attacks, he was close to being so. He pants for breath as he looks up at Shen, who glances down at him and Kanako with a twisted smile.

"You put up quite the show," Shen says, his voice dripping with condescension. "But now, it's time for the main event."

Dalv's body aches from the impact of Shen's firecracker feathers, his breaths shallow. Yet, the thought of Kanako and the innocents of Snowdin fills him with a newfound strength. He pushes himself up, his eyes meeting the peacock's with a fiery determination.

"You will not harm a single soul here," Dalv snarled, his voice steady despite his weariness.

Shen chuckled, a sound that sent shivers down Kanako's spine.

"I admire your spirit, young kitsune," he said, his eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and malice. "But your valor is misplaced. You cannot stand against the might of the one who has conquered worlds."

Kanako's eyes grew steely, her teeth bared in a snarl.

"You don't know us," she spat.

"But I know you, and I know your purpose to escape the confines of the pit," Shen replied, "Your father abandoned you the moment he brought you here."

The venom spoken in that last sentence crushed Kanako's heart, and she felt a tremor of doubt. Was it true? Did her father abandon her? But she couldn't think about it now. The only thing she knew was that she had to protect Dalv and the others.

"But now that I'm here, let me heal you from that tremor," Shen offered, his smile never leaving his face as he reached for Kanako with a wing that glowed with a faint red aura.

Dalv got up and charged at Shen with all the speed he could muster. His fur stood on end, and the electricity around him grew more intense. The air was thick with the smell of burning feathers and the metallic scent of fear.

But the moment he got close, Shen swiftly moves, his tail in front of Dalv's face, and tosses him aside, where he groans in pain.

Now that Dalv was distracted and can't get up for a while, Shen turned his attention to Kanako.

"You see, little fox," Shen began, his voice smooth as silk, "Your father's ambitions are what brought him here, and they're what brought me here too. We have much in common, you and I."

Kanako's eyes searched the chaos for any sign of her father. Was it true? Did Chujin bring this monster here?

"FOUND YOU," A robotic voice boomed out.

Shen's eyes widen, and he realizes he needs to make a clean getaway. He looks at the entrance to Waterfall, where the snow ends and a black landscape with clear crystal water awaits. He dashes towards it, his tail trailing the snow with each step.

As Shen dashed passed the entrance, he noticed it was like going right into a completely different landscape, similar to how he first went into Snowdin from the Dunes. But this time, the coldness didn't bother him, nor did the sharpness of the rocks. He felt like he could conquer this place too.

The realm of Waterfall was more moist. The ground was black, yet the water shaped into various ponds and waterfalls were so bright and clear, it was like a neon light show. It was starkly different from the cold, white snow of Snowdin.

Shen, his feathers fluttering with excitement, took in the new surroundings. He felt a strange sense of homecoming as if he had been here before. The air was thick with mist, and the sound of water droplets hitting the ground was soothing, almost meditative.

But the serenity was short-lived. The sound of whirring grew louder. Shen's pupils slightly move turn the source of the noise, not even bothering to turn his head. Axis managed to find the rash peacock, seemingly cornering him.

"HALT," Axis boomed, its voice echoing through the misty Waterfall. "YOU ARE THE 'PEACOCK WITH A GUN' IDENTIFIED IN THE 'CURRENT OBJECTIVES' LIST. SURRENDER FOR THE SAFETY OF THE UNDERGROUND."

Shen's eyes snapped to the robot, his grin widening at the sight of the shiny new model. He hadn't anticipated that the residents of this quaint little world had developed such advanced technology.

"Oh, this is the best these creatures are sending at me?" Shen chuckled, his tail feathers fluttering in amusement as he faced Axis. "You're just a metal toy, compared to the might of me!"

"YOUR TREACHERY IS A VIOLATION OF THE UNDERGROUND'S PEACE," Axis's voice boomed through the mist, unyielding in its accusation. "YOU WILL CEASE THE SPREAD OF CHAOS OR BE APPREHENDED FOR THE SAFETY OF THE INHABITANTS."

Shen's smile grew colder, his eyes gleaming with the challenge.

"And what makes you think you can stop me?" He taunted, raising his feather blades with a flourish.

Axis's arms raised, and the robotic limbs extended, revealing a light pink energy crackling through its body.

"I'M AXIS MODEL 014," it declared. "I WAS BUILT TO PROTECT THE STEAMWORKS. THE FORCE OF THE UNDERGROUND STANDS BEHIND ME."

Shen sneered at the robot, the sound of his metal feathers clanking together as he prepared for battle. The robot's confidence was admirable, but ultimately misplaced.

"You're just a mere creation," Shen said, his voice laced with contempt. "You cannot comprehend the power that I wield. I find your stupidity mildly amusing, but I do not have the luxury of time for such trivialities."

Axis's eyes turn purple for a brief moment. A static sound echoes throughout Waterfall.

"BZZTZZ- ERROR," Axis's voice booms out. "ERROR."

This lasts for a couple more seconds before Axis's eyes turn back to pink.

"THREAT LEVEL: DANGEROUS," Axis's voice boomed, the robot's pink eyes locking onto Shen as it took a step forward. "ABORTING 'NON-LETHAL APPREHENSION' PROTOCOL. INITIATING TERMINATION SEQUENCE FOR THE SAFETY OF THE UNDERGROUND. GOODBYE."

Axis raises his arms up, where a ball of pink energy forms in his palms. It grew larger and larger, the energy pulsing like a beating heart. The mist around them swirled and thickened as the tension grew.

Shen's eyes narrowed, his feathers bristling as he watched the robot's power manifest. He had encountered many challenges in his long life, but this was something new.

"More electricity? A quaint effort," Shen mused, his feathers ruffling with the anticipation of the fight. "Let us see if your 'termination sequence' is as impressive as your creators believe."

With a flick of his wrist, Shen threw a few of his feather blades at Axis. They sliced through the air, but instead of cutting into the metal body, they bounced off, leaving no marks. The robot's pink energy sphere grew to the size of a boulder, and with a dramatic flourish, it threw the sphere at Shen.

Shen's feather bristles as he dashes aside, the pink energy sphere smashing into the ground behind him, leaving a smoking crater where it landed. The ground shakes, and the water in the ponds ripples outward from the explosion's force.

Axis stares in front of him as the smoke begins to clear up. His pink eyes narrow as he sees Lord Shen standing, unscathed. The robot's programming was clear; protect the Underground from threats, and Shen had just shown his true colors.

Shen grabs hold of his lance and charges at Axis. His movements are swift, a stark contrast to the robot's heavy and deliberate steps. The air sizzles with the energy of their clashing abilities.

"YOUR METAL AND SHARP THINGAMABOBS ARE IMPERVIOUS TO MY METALLIC STRUCTURE," Axis announced, the pink energy dissipating from his hands. "BUT THE FORCE OF THE UNDERGROUND WILL PREVAIL."

Shen's smile grew into a smug grin as he watched Axis's approach. He knew the robot wasn't invincible; it was merely a tool of those who feared the unknown. He had faced down greater foes than this mere construct.

The peacock glances over at the pond as he continues to swipe his lance at the robot, his feathers fluttering in the mist.

"Your strength is impressive for a mere toy," he says with a sneer. "But I wield power far beyond your comprehension!"

Axis's pink eyes narrowed, the energy sphere reforming in his hands once more.

"ERROR. YOU ARE NOT FROM THE UNDERGROUND. YOU ARE A THREAT. TERMINATION SEQUENCE CONFIRMED," Axis's voice boomed, the energy sphere in his hands growing larger and more intense.

With each swipe of his lance, he was managing to inch Axis closer to the pond. The robot's movements were slow, calculated, but Shen's speed was unmatched. He could see the gears turning in Axis's head, the robot trying to figure out his next move.

Axis prepares to throw the energy ball again, and as if anticipating the split second timing, Shen's right talon reaches into his robe to grab the gun.

POP!

The gun goes off, and a burst of colorful sparks shoots from the barrel. It's not the typical fireworks that Shen is used to, but the surprise on Axis's face is worth the shot. The close proximity causes Shen to be pushed back a bit from the recoil, but it's not enough to throw him off balance.

The robot's energy sphere falters for a moment, and Shen sees his opportunity. Since Axis has been distracted, Shen grabs his lance again and rushes towards the robot with a fiery speed that even Axis didn't anticipate.

The head-on collision from the lance hits Axis's body so hard that he got pushed back, and his body falls into the pond with a heavy splash. The water sprays everywhere, creating a mist that momentarily obscures Shen's view.

When the mist clears up, Axis is revealed floating in the water, short-circuiting. The robot's body jolts with spikes of electricity dancing across its frame.

"D-D-DAMAGE CRITICAL_. Se-EK R/ePAI'RS IM EDIATELY_," Axis's voice crackles, the robot's eyes flickering with erratic bursts of pink light as it struggles to remain on in the water.

Shen watches with a mix of glee and disdain as Axis's systems fail in the water. The robot's design was clever, but ultimately flawed. He knew that water and electricity didn't mix well, and he had used that knowledge to his advantage.

"What a shame. It was just starting to get interesting," Shen mused, his feathers fluttering in the mist as he approached the incapacitated Axis. "Tell those people of yours... The Rebirth of the Peacock looms near."

Shen whips around to the left, where a pathway can be seen, and begins dashing away from the pond, his feathers fluttering as he glides over the wet stones. He knew that his victory over Axis was only temporary, and the robot's masters would soon be looking for him. He needed to find those human SOULs before they could send more of their contraptions after him.

later...

After an unknown amount of time, Chujin walks into the entrance to Waterfall. As he was evacuating more monsters to safety, he has gotten an urgent call from Axis. He had felt the robot's power surge and knew something was off. The mist cleared to reveal the robotic guardian lying in the pond, flickering with life.

Chujin's eyes widen in horror, his pupils dilated as he takes in the scene before him. The pond water bubbles with the smell of burnt metal and ozone, the mist thick with the aftermath of a fierce battle.

"Axis!!!" Chujin sprinted over to the robot, his heart racing. He could see the damage done to his creation, and the sight filled him with a mix of anger and dread. "Who did this to you?!"

Axis's pink eyes barely flickered as Chujin approached, his voice crackling with static.

"CRe... CRe... CREATOR-TOR," Axis's voice sputtered out, the robot's head barely above the waterline. "THREAT... PEACCK... WI-I-ITH GUN... IN... INITIATED... TERM-TERM-TERMINATION..."

The words hit Chujin like a hammer.

"Y-You weren't supposed to try to terminate it! I... I gave you the order to apprehend, not to..." Chujin's voice trailed off as he stared at the damaged robot, his fur bristling with a mix of fear and frustration

"THRE-E-THREAT LEVEL WAS... HI-HIGHLY DANGEROUS," Axis's crackling voice replied. "PINK... SPARKS... PEACCK... GUN... M-M-MU-MULTIPLE F-FAILURES."

Chujin's jaw clenched, his heart racing as he realized the gravity of the situation. He still wasn't able to stop another programming error on this model, either. Perhaps he should take a break from making new models at this point.

"It's okay, Axis, just hang tight. I'll send you back to the Steamworks to get repaired," Chujin assured, his voice wavering as he tried to keep his emotions in check. He reached into the icy water, his hand wrapping around the robot's metal shoulder. "You've done enough for today."

With a grunt, he heaved Axis out of the pond. The robot's body was heavy, its metal frame waterlogged. Chujin's mind raced with thoughts of what had happened here and who was responsible.

The Steamworks was quite a long ways away from this point, so he thought about how to transport Axis safely without damaging him further. He looked around, spotting a small minecart that was used to transport supplies. Maybe the rails nearby could lead to the Dunes, giving him easier access to the Steamworks from there.

With a grunt, Chujin managed to lift Axis into the minecart, the robot's body still sizzling from the water. He pushed the cart along the path, his mind racing with questions. Who was this peacock? What did it want with the Underground? And why did it have to involve Axis in its twisted games?

Suddenly, Chujin's eyes widen as something just popped into his head.

"KANAKO!!!" He screams, his heart racing as he imagines the worst. "I was so focused on Axis and this peacock, I forgot to check on her!"

Chujin's thoughts swirl with images of his daughter caught in the middle of the chaos, and he starts running back to Snowdin from the way he came from.

When Chujin arrived back in Snowdin, the scene was much as he feared. The usually tranquil village was now a chaotic mess. The snow was trampled and the air was thick with the smell of burnt feathers and fear.

He spotted the spot where Kanako had been playing earlier, the snowballs scattered and melted. Kanako was shaking, her eyes glancing around. Chujin also noticed Dalv, and recognized him as the vampire friend Kanako plays with, even if Chujin never got his name.

"Kanako!" Chujin roared, sprinting through the snowy chaos. His heart felt like it was being torn apart by the sight of his daughter trembling with fear. The battle had taken its toll on the once pristine landscape, and the scent of burnt feathers and gunpowder lingered in the air, a stark reminder of the horrors that had unfolded.

He sprints to Dalv's bruised body lying in the snow, the vampire's eyes closed, and his breathing shallow. He rushed over, his heart racing.

"Sir! Sir, can you hear me?" He called out, his voice filled with concern.

Dalv's eyes fluttered open, revealing a pained expression. He looked around, trying to process what had happened.

"Dalv!" Kanako screamed, tears freezing on her cheeks. She nudged him with a trembling paw, desperation in her voice. "Dalv, are you okay?"

Chujin's eyes searched the area for any sign of the peacock prince, his heart pounding in his chest. The chaos was slowly dying down as the shock of the attack began to wear off, and the other monsters of Snowdin began to emerge from their hiding places. They stared in awe at the three figures standing in the center of the carnage.

"Is everyone alright?" Chujin called out, his voice echoing through the now eerily quiet town. He knew he had to be the strong one, the one to reassure the others despite the rage bubbling within him.

Kanako looked up at her father, her eyes filled with a mix of relief and terror. She nodded, her voice shaking.

"Kanako, what happened?" Chujin's voice was a mix of urgency and fear as he helped the vampire monster to his feet. The snow around them had turned to ash, and the once cheerful town was now a battlefield, the remnants of Shen's fiery onslaught scattered across the ground.

"Did you mean to abandon me?" The words slipped out of Kanako's mouth before she could even think them through. Chujin's eyes widened with shock and pain.

"What? No, of course not!" He denied immediately, "I just had to... I had to make sure Axis was safe, and..."

"The peacock man said you abandoned me," Kanako whispered, her voice barely audible over the crackling of the last embers of Shen's fireworks.

Chujin's eyes softened, his anger momentarily forgotten. Well, only slightly, due to this "peacock with a gun" poisoning Kanako's mind. He crouched down to her level, his fur brushing the snow.

"Kanako, you know that isn't true," he said gently, his voice steady. "I would never leave you, especially not with someone as dangerous as the 'peacock man' around."

Her eyes searched his, looking for any hint of deceit, but all she found was the warmth of love and protection she had always known. With a shaky nod, she buried her face in his fur, her small body trembling with the aftershocks of fear and anger.

Chujin turns to Dalv, who slowly sits up and lets out a low groan.

"There was... a peacock," Dalv chimed in weakly, his voice strained with the effort of speaking, "He had a... gun. A gun that shot... fireworks. He... he shot it everywhere."

Chujin's eyes narrowed, his mind racing. He had no idea what this peacock with a gun could be, but the mention of fireworks brought back memories of the destruction that Axis befell before Asgore just recently. The very thought of such power being unleashed again made his fur stand on end.

"You two, find some more monsters to help bring them to safety," Chujin barked orders at his daughter and the injured vampire, his eyes still scanning the area for any signs of the mysterious peacock. "We must get everyone out of here before he comes back."

Dalv nodded, his breathing still ragged. His eyes avert away in shame, but he accepted the order and begins to walk off. Kanako pulls away from her father as they look at each other.

"We're going home right after this, got it?" Chujin said firmly to Kanako. Kanako nodded, her eyes still filled with fear but now mixed with a spark of resolve. She knew she couldn't let her father see her like this. She had to be strong for him and for Dalv.

"Okay, Daddy," she whispered, wiping her tears away with a shaky paw.

As they parted, Chujin took one last look at the two of them before he disappeared into the snowstorm, the sound of his footsteps fading as he pursued the retreating peacock. Dalv's eyes closed, and his breath grew steadier, the warmth of the arm around him from Kanako providing a small comfort in the face of his pain.

The journey through the snow was treacherous, but Chujin's anger and determination fueled his speed. The trail of scorched snow was easy to follow, leading him to the outskirts of the once-peaceful town. The closer he got to the Waterfall, the stronger the scent of burnt feathers grew. He could feel his blood boil with every step he took.

But when he looked back, his eyes shrink. He saw a human on the ground, their lifeless body lying in the crimson snow. His eyes went wide with horror. Time and time again, Chujin knew that humans were dangerous, but never had he seen one hurt like this. He rushed over, his heart racing as he checked for a pulse. There was none.

This peacock that Dalv mentioned... it seems that that human's death was the catalyst for Kanako's fear of him, Chujin thought grimly as he knelt beside Melody's lifeless body.

A blue glow appears before Chujin's eyes. He sees the human's SOUL, in the shape of a blue heart, rising up from their body. His goggles fog up, contemplating the scene before him.

"...I must research more about this," He uttered. He grabs an empty canister that once contained some of his inventions and carefully puts the soul inside, sealing it shut.

The blue light from the SOUL canister pierces through the foggy goggles, as if it's speaking to him, whispering of the urgency and the untold depth of the prophecy. He couldn't tell anyone about getting a human SOUL for research. Not Martlet, not Kanako, not Ceroba- no one.

Turning away from the grim sight, Chujin picked up his pace. The trail grew colder as he left the Snowdin outskirts to meet back up with his daughter.

later that evening...

It was dinner time at the Ketsukane estate. Chujin and Kanako returned from their trip in Snowdin, their expressions blank to ease the tension of what has just transpired. Ceroba comforted them and went back to prepare them a hearty meal of fish stew and steaming bamboo shoots.

Chujin's mind was racing, trying to piece together the puzzle that was Lord Shen's sudden appearance and the human's involvement. Once the food was served, the Ketsukanes sat at the table and began to eat. Ceroba was the first to strike up a conversation.

"So, Chujin," She started, "Were you able to accomplish your work goals you wanted to get done at the trip?"

Her voice was gentle, but her eyes held a hint of curiosity. Chujin took a deep breath, pushing the thoughts of the battle to the back of his mind. He couldn't tell them everything yet. Not until he understood what was happening.

"...Yes," Chujin replied, his voice gruff as he took a bite of the steaming bamboo shoots, "I've made some progress, but it's nothing to talk about at the moment." He didn't dare to look at Ceroba or Kanako, fearing the truth would spill from his eyes. The silence that followed was thick, filled only by the clinking of chopsticks against the plates.

Kanako picked at her food, her thoughts swirling with the events of the day. The image of the peacock with the terrifying gun was burned into her mind, and she couldn't shake the feeling of helplessness that had gripped her during the fight.

Ceroba's gaze flicked between Chujin and Kanako, noticing the unspoken tension between them. She knew something had gone wrong, something beyond the usual mechanical malfunction. Her curiosity piqued, she decided to probe gently.

"Kanako, was your trip to the village alright?" she asked, her eyes filled with concern.

Kanako nodded, her voice small.

"Yeah, it was fine," she lied, pushing the food around on her plate.

Chujin's gaze flickered to his daughter, and he knew she wasn't okay. He had to tell them. He had to prepare them for what was to come.

"Ceroba, there's something I need to tell you," he began, his voice heavy. "There was an attack in Snowdin today. A peacock... it was said to have wielded a gun that shoots fireworks. It caused chaos and fear among the villagers."

Ceroba's eyes snapped up from her meal, her expression a mix of shock and alarm.

"...What? That... that can't be right," Ceroba replied, setting her chopsticks down with a clatter. "A peacock with a gun that shoots fireworks? That sounds like something straight out of a bedtime story."

"It's no story, Ceroba," Chujin's voice was solemn. "The snow was scorched, and the smell of burnt feathers filled the air. This peacock, it's dangerous. I... I'm just thankful that Kanako isn't hurt."

Ceroba's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with the implications. If what Chujin said was true, then the Underground was in real trouble. Ceroba glances back at her daughter, who's still poking at her food.

"Kanako," she said softly, "tell me what happened."

Kanako gazed out into the distance. The first thing that popped into her head was that sun/eye-ball like symbol seen on Shen's tail feathers. It's haunting and yet mesmerizing, much like the peacock's fiery dance. Then it grew more horrifying as she imagined the snowy landscape, fit with the red powder, and Shen glaring right at her. The thought ends with Shen letting out a squawk before charging at her.

Kanako closes her eyes. The feeling of thinking about that symbol made her feel a bit nauseous. She felt the contents of the food she ate coming right back up, and she regurgitates a bit, her cheeks puffed out slightly.

"Kanako?" Ceroba inquired, her voice filled with concern. "What's wrong?"

Kanako takes a moment to avert her eyes up at her mother.

"...Fine," Kanako choked out. Then, closing her eyes, she leans over to the side and pukes onto the floor. The smell of fish and bamboo filled the air, making Ceroba's stomach turn.

"Kanako!" Ceroba and Chujin both jumped to their feet, their concern for their daughter overshadowing their own fears of the unknown peacock. Ceroba quickly grabbed a nearby towel to clean up the mess as Chujin knelt beside her, his hand on her back.

"What's wrong, sweetie?" Ceroba cooed, her eyes filled with motherly worry.

Kanako wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, tears pricking at the corner of her eyes despite how red and puffy they are.

"I-I just remembered something scary," she murmured, her voice quivering. "The peacock man, he tried to hurt me and Dalv. He had this... this gun that shot out sizzley thingies. And he talked about... about Daddy."

Ceroba's eyes were filled with a mix of fear and anger. Shock was one thing, but to see her daughter in such distress was another.

"We need to do something about that... peacock you mentioned," she said firmly. "I don't want him anywhere near Kanako again."

Chujin nodded solemnly, his hand still on Kanako's back.

"I know," he said, his voice tight with emotion. "We can't let him harm anyone else."

The room grew quiet again, the sound of Kanako's sobs echoing off the walls. Ceroba cleaned up the mess, her mind racing with thoughts of the peacock and his weapon. They had to find a way to stop him before he could cause more damage.

As the mess was cleaned up, Ceroba grabs a napkin and gently dabs it near Kanako's mouth, making sure she was okay to breathe. She could see the fear and anxiety in her daughter's eyes.

"You should rest," Ceroba suggests, "We've had a long day, and tomorrow is another."

"But Mommy," Kanako protested weakly, "I... I can-"

"No, you need to rest," Ceroba insisted, her voice firm yet gentle. "We'll handle things from here." She knew that her daughter had been through a traumatic event, and the last thing she needed was to be burdened with the weight of an impending battle.

She helped Kanako to her feet, guiding her to the stairs. Chujin watched them ascend, his thoughts a whirlwind of anger and fear. He knew he couldn't just sit around and wait for Shen to make his next move. He had to be proactive. He had to protect his family and the town he swore to defend.

While no one was looking, Chujin moves the table and opens the hidden compartment to the basement and heads down. He sits down in front of the computer screen, where he begins to make a video. He folds his hands, his glasses all fogged up.

"This is Chujin," he says, his voice firm yet trembling slightly. "Today, I traveled with my daughter on casual business. While I was busy, Kanako wandered off to play with a resident. That's when it happened..."

He takes a deep breath, trying to keep his emotions in check.

"A few panicked townsfolk ran up to me saying that they saw a peacock with a gun," Chujin continued into the camera, his voice heavy with the burden of his secret. "I found the scene of the attack, and... that's when I saw... a human."

The room grew colder, the heat from the dinner forgotten as he spoke the forbidden word. Chujin groans as he clutches his forehead, groaning in disbelief.

"This peacock... they attacked the monster Kanako was with," He continued, his voice crackling with emotion. "She was so close... she could've been next. No one was there to protect her. Not even me."

He turns to the side for a moment before placing his chin on the desk.

"I don't understand... I just don't understand!" Chujin exclaimed, slamming his fist on the desk. The computer screen flickered with the stress of his emotions. He took a deep breath, trying to compose himself before continuing. "Humankind already won by trapping us down here, yet they keep twisting the knife!"

He paused, his eyes focusing on the blue SOUL canister sitting on the desk next to him. He knew he couldn't tell anyone about it, not yet. He had to figure out what it meant, and what the prophecy truly was.

"And a monster attacking for selfish gain... dammit, how could I have been so careless?!" Chujin's fur stood on end as he slammed his fist onto the desk again, knocking over the blue SOUL canister. Chujin gasped as he quickly got up from his seat to catch it. The canister rolled across the floor, the SOUL inside flickering erratically. He managed to catch it before it could break, his heart racing. He knew that the soul was important, but he didn't know how or why.

Gently, he placed the SOUL canister back on its original spot. His mind raced with the possibilities of what that peacock's motives could be. Chujin knew he had to act fast. He couldn't let this monster threaten his family and the peace of the Underground. He had to find him and put an end to his tyranny.

Chujin sits back down, his expression as calmed as he can be.

"This cannot continue any longer!" He declared. "As of today, I'm looking into stopping this perpetual injustice once and for all. This is Chujin, signing off."

The screen goes black, and Chujin slumps in his chair. The silence of the basement is broken only by the whirring of the computer's fan. The blue SOUL canister glows faintly in the dark, as if in agreement with Chujin's vow.

After some time, Chujin leaves the basement and hides the entrance. When he made it back to the living room, he saw Ceroba heading back downstairs as well.

"Ceroba," He called out, his voice a mix of urgency and fear. Ceroba looked up at him, her eyes filled with question.

"I tucked Kanako to bed, dear," Ceroba informed as she approached Chujin, her eyes filled with worry and exhaustion. "But she's still quite shaken up."

Chujin nodded gravely.

"I know," he said, his voice low. "But we'll keep her safe. We can't let this... this monster get to her again."

Ceroba nodded solemnly.

"What do we do now?" Ceroba asked, her eyes searching Chujin's for answers.

"Well... let's discuss this tomorrow. It's getting late," Chujin suggested, his eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. "We need to think clearly and come up with a plan."

Ceroba nodded, her expression mirroring Chujin's. She knew that the peacock had to be stopped, but the thought of facing such a powerful and cunning opponent was daunting.

As they settled into bed that night, they look at each other one last time before the lights go out.

"We'll get through this," Chujin said, his voice barely a whisper.

Ceroba nodded, but sleep eluded her. Her mind raced with details of what Chujin and Kanako told her, piecing together the horror of their encounter with the mysterious peacock. Her thoughts drifted to the human's soul, trapped within the confines of the metal canister, and she felt a pang of curiosity mixed with dread.

Chapter Text

The next day has arrived, and the Ketsukanes are up early. The events of the previous evening weigh heavily on their minds, and they know they must act swiftly. Lately, Chujin has been feeling more distant lately, probably from regret over what happened at Snowdin. Kanako has also been dealing with a nightmare, but with her parents at her side, was able to talk about it that night before getting a much better sleep that day.

"Kanako," Ceroba called from the kitchen, her voice filled with a mix of authority and gentleness. "Time for breakfast, sweetie."

Kanako dragged herself out of bed, her eyes still red and puffy from crying the night before, despite her best attempts to hide it. She padded downstairs, her little fox tail swishing behind her. The smell of pancakes and syrup filled the air, and her stomach growled. Despite her fear of the peacock, she knew she needed to keep her strength up.

"Morning, Daddy," she said weakly as she took a seat at the table.

Chujin looked at her, his heart aching. He knew she was trying to put on a brave face, but the fear was still evident. He couldn't help but feel responsible for her trauma, and he was determined to find the peacock and bring him to justice.

"Good morning, Kanako," he replied, his voice warm. "How did you sleep?"

Kanako shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant as she took a bite of her pancake. The sweetness did little to alleviate the bitter taste of fear that lingered in her mouth.

"Better," she lied, forcing a smile as she took a bite of her pancake.

Ceroba placed a gentle paw on her daughter's shoulder, giving her a comforting squeeze.

"We're going to figure this out," she assured her. "And we're going to make sure that peacock can't hurt anyone else."

Kanako's eyes widened slightly, hope sparkling in them. Ceroba knew she had to keep her promise, no matter what it took. As they ate their breakfast in tense silence, Ceroba began to speak up again.

"Daddy's going to be taking you to the Wild East. You can play with your friends there," Ceroba said to Kanako, trying to sound cheerful.

Kanako nodded, her eyes still glued to her plate. Ceroba knew that she was scared, but she couldn't let fear consume her daughter. She had to be strong.

"And I'll be going to the Oasis Valley to see if I can find anything," Ceroba continued, her voice firm. "I have a feeling that's where we'll find our answers."

Chujin nodded solemnly, his eyes never leaving Ceroba's. Compared to Ceroba, he never really liked the Wild East, as he didn't "like what it stood for." His outlook on North Star was fairly one-sided, as both of them don't speak highly of each other, but for his family's sake, he'd swallow his pride. Plus, Ceroba is more connected with him, and if that "sheriff" has answers, they will gladly take that chance.

After breakfast, the three of them made their way to the door. Ceroba kissed Kanako's forehead, her heart swelling with love and determination. She would do anything to keep her daughter safe, even if it meant facing her own fears.

Ceroba waves goodbye before Chujin and Kanako leave, her eyes never leaving her daughter until they vanish from view. She takes a deep breath, her resolve solidifying like ice. She had to find that peacock and stop him. The thought of Kanako in danger was unbearable, and she couldn't let anyone else face the same terror.

Once they were gone, Ceroba heads to the Oasis Valley, not too far off from where Chujin and Kanako were headed. There, Ceroba enters the saloon and, as expected, North Star and the Feisty Five were there, entertaining the townsfolk with their usual banter. She tries to blend in, sitting at the bar. The barkeeper, an orange armadillo monster with a trio of green harmless snakes around her neck, walks towards her.

"A glass of ice water, Dina," Ceroba called out to the armadillo bartender, her eyes scanning the saloon discreetly. The patter of conversation and the clink of glasses filled the room, but her sharp ears picked up any whispers of trouble.

The armadillo nodded with a smile, sliding a glass across the counter.

"Here ya go, Ceroba," Dina said, her voice dripping with a sweet accent. Ceroba took a sip, the cold liquid soothing her dry throat.

"Thanks," she murmured, her eyes still scanning the room.

North Star looked over at her from the stage, his gaze sharp. He had noticed her tension, and he knew something was up. He nodded slightly, signaling for her to join him. Ceroba approached, her tail swishing anxiously.

"Ceroba!" North Star called out, a bit tipsy. "What's got you lookin' so down?"

Ceroba sighed, deciding it was best to be upfront with the sheriff.

"I need to talk to you about something serious, Starlo," Ceroba said, her voice low and urgent as she spoke to the sheriff by his real name.

Starlo's expression grew concerned, his playful demeanor dissipating as he hopped down from the stage. The Feisty Five, noticing the sudden shift in the air, followed him, their eyes curious.

"What's goin' on, Ceroba?" Ed asked, his voice deep and gruff. Moray hovered closer, their eyes filled with concern. Ace leaned against the bar, his arms folded over his chest, his gaze assessing.

"I've been hearing some... disturbing rumors," Ceroba began, her voice hushed. "About a peacock with a weapon that can harm even the strongest monsters."

The Feisty Five exchanged glances, their expressions growing serious.

"Did you just say a peacock?" Starlo's eyes narrowed as he leaned in closer. "And what kind of weapon are we talkin' about?"

Ceroba nodded gravely, her gaze flicking to the door.

"I haven't actually seen it myself," Ceroba admitted, "but from what Chujin told me, it's a gun that shoots... something powerful. I don't know what it is, but it can shatter a monster's SOUL."

The Feisty Five exchanged troubled looks.

"A gun that shoots... SOUL-shattering bullets?" Mooch's eyes widened. "That's not the kind of party trick you bring to a monster town!"

Ace spoke up, his voice more serious than ever.

"This isn't just a rumor anymore, sheriff. It's a potential crisis. We need to find this peacock before he causes real damage," he said gravely.

Starlo's expression grew grim as he nodded.

"As a matter of fact, we've seen this peacock," Starlo said, his expression turning from one of curiosity to one of concern. "He came in here about a day before, said he was a wanderer. He called himself Lord Shen."

Ceroba's ears perked up at the mention of the name.

"Lord Shen?" she repeated. "That must be the one that Chujin mentioned. He said he saw traces of a peacock in the aftermath of an attack."

The room fell silent as the gravity of the situation settled in. The Feisty Five had their share of battles and skirmishes, but nothing that involved a creature capable of wielding a weapon of such power.

"I first saw him as I was wanderin' around the Dunes, doing my sheriff duties," Starlo explained, leaning on the bar. "He was... different. A bit off, you know? Like he didn't belong here. Peacocks aren't known for having some kinda wonky aura."

Ceroba nodded, her thoughts racing.

"He must be from the surface world," she murmured. "And if he's as powerful as Chujin says, then we can't take him lightly."

The Feisty Five nodded in agreement.

"We need to find him before he causes any more harm," Moray said, their fish-like tail swishing nervously behind them.

Ceroba took a deep breath, her mind racing with strategies.

"We need to spread the word," she said firmly. "Warn everyone in the Dunes about Lord Shen. If he's got a gun that can shatter our SOULs, we can't let him go unchecked."

Starlo nodded gravely, his cheerful demeanor of the night before replaced with the sternness of a seasoned protector.

"You can count on us, Ceroba," he assured her, his eyes scanning the saloon as if expecting Shen to burst in at any moment. "The Feisty Four won't let anything happen to our town or your family."

Ceroba nodded, her expression a mix of gratitude and determination.

"We can't let our guard down. We need to be prepared for anything," She said firmly, her tail swishing behind her. "Let's start by questioning the locals, seeing if anyone has seen or heard anything unusual."

The Feisty Five nodded in agreement, their expressions mirroring hers. They had seen the damage that outsiders could do before, and they weren't going to let it happen again.

"We'll keep the town safe," Ace said, his voice firm and reassuring. "We'll do what we must be questioning our people for clues, but discreetly. We don't want to cause unnecessary panic."

Ceroba nodded, her mind racing with potential locations where they could start their search.

"I've been so stressed lately," she groans, "And I can't even go to the bar for a quiet drink without someone bringing up doomsday. Since Chujin... 'retired' from his job, as he claimed, we're beginning to struggle financially."

The mention of her husband's recent withdrawal from his work stung Starlo. Granted, the two never got along too well, but Starlo knows well of Chujin's kindness and respects him as a fellow protector of the Underground. He'd need to keep an eye on him too.

"Maybe you could get a quick job so you have some money to spend. I heard the Cafe Dune is opening part-time positions," Starlo suggested, trying to lighten the mood slightly. "It's only part-time, but it's a start. I know you want to be there for your kid."

Ceroba's eyes lit up at the mention of the café. It had been her favorite spot before the incident, and the thought of returning to normalcy, even for a brief moment, was comforting.

"I... appreciate your suggestion. Thanks, Star," Ceroba replied with a weak smile, her eyes lingering on her glass of ice water.

Starlo nodded, understanding her need for normalcy in the midst of chaos. He then turns back to his posse with a serious expression.

"Alright, fellas," Starlo announced to the Feisty Five, slapping his hand on the bar. "We've got ourselves a job to do. We'll split up and start askin' around. If anyone's seen a white peacock with a fancy gun, we want to know about it."

The group nodded in agreement, and as they dispersed, Ceroba felt a pang of anxiety. The thought of Shen causing havoc in the peaceful lands of the Underground was unbearable. She knew she had to find him before he could do any more harm.

Leaving the saloon with a newfound sense of urgency, she made her way to the outskirts of Oasis Valley, heading towards the Dunes. The once vibrant and welcoming desert was now a place of unease, with the looming shadow of the peacock's presence casting doubt over everyone's safety.

The scorching sun was setting, casting a warm glow across the shifting sands as Ceroba approached the place where Shen had first appeared according to one of Starlo's hints. Her mind was racing with thoughts of what Chujin and Kanako must've been going through when Shen attacked the latter in Snowdin.

The silence of the desert was occasionally pierced by the distant howl of the wind. Ceroba's eyes scanned the horizon, looking for any signs of disturbance or a clue that might lead her to the elusive peacock.

Her thoughts drifted to her family, and the fear she had pushed aside for the sake of action began to resurface. What if she was too late? What if Shen had already found his way to the Wild East, seeking to harm Kanako again? She quickened her pace, her paws digging into the hot sand as she pushed herself faster.

The Dunes stretched out before her, an endless sea of sand and shadows. It was a place of beauty, but also one of danger. The Underground was vast and complex, and Shen could be anywhere, wreaking havoc as he saw fit. Ceroba's eyes narrowed, her determination unwavering. She had to find him before he could do any more harm.

Her keen senses picked up a faint scent on the wind, something metallic and unfamiliar. It was faint, but it was definitely the scent of the peacock's weapon. She followed the trail, her paws moving swiftly across the sand.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching from behind her. She spun around, her instincts on high alert. A figure emerged from the dust, a monster with a feathery tail and a set of wings that looked like they were made of pure light. It was Lord Shen himself, the white feathers around his neck fluttering in the breeze.

Ceroba reaches into her back, where she pulled out her staff with a red ribbon from thin air. She got into a defensive stance, her eyes never leaving Lord Shen's.

"You were there," Ceroba snapped, her grip tightening around her staff. "You're the one causing all this fear and chaos."

"What situation are you feigning on about?" Shen asked in a fake tone, grinning mischievously.

"Don't play dumb, peacock," Ceroba replied harshly, "We know about the gun, the attacks, and the fear you've been spreading. Why are you here, and what do you want?"

"Ohh, so he told you about my reign in Snowdin," Shen mused, his grin growing wider as he twirled the gun in his hand, the metal glinting ominously.

"Yes!" Ceroba spat, her eyes flashing. "And now you're going to answer for it!"

"A tragic event, is it not?" Shen said with a sinister chuckle, "I know how it must feel, your daughter being abandoned all helpless, it was a terrible fiasco. If I recall, it went something like THIS!"

In a blink of an eye, Lord Shen raised his gun and fired a crimson blast at Ceroba, the same color as a firework during a celebration. Ceroba's instincts took over, and she raised her staff to block the attack. The explosion sent her flying back, her fur ruffled and her ears ringing. She could feel the heat on her skin, the sand around her scorched by the power of the firework.

"Your husband was quite the dreamer, trying to pursue me without showing up in front of my face," Shen said, his voice echoing through the dust cloud left by the explosion. Ceroba grunted as she pushed herself up, her staff glowing slightly from the impact.

Her eyes narrowed as she glared at the peacock, her teeth clenched.

"You leave my family out of this," she warned, her voice steady despite the tremble in her legs.

Shen's grin grew wider, his eyes gleaming with malicious amusement.

"Or what?" he taunted, his wings fluttering with excitement. "You'll play the hero and try to stop me?"

Ceroba's eyes narrowed further, the fire in her gaze unmistakable.

"You have no idea what I'm capable of," she said, her voice a low growl.

"Let's see how your capability matches these," Shen replied before throwing a few feather blades at Ceroba. The sharp feathers cut through the air, their trajectory unpredictable.

Ceroba's reflexes were quick, dodging and parrying the blades with her staff. The sound of steel clanging against metal echoed through the desert, each clang a testament to her skill and determination.

"I am not like the others you've encountered," she warned, her voice cold. "I will not fall so easily."

Shen's feathers ruffled in annoyance, and he conjured a rope dart, the metal tip glowing in the sunlight. He swung it around with a flourish before throwing it at Ceroba. The rope coiled around her staff, and she felt a jolt of energy run through it.

"Is that all you've got?" he jeered, pulling the rope taut, trying to disarm her.

Ceroba, however, had anticipated the move. With a swift twirl of her staff, she sent the rope dart back at Shen, who barely managed to dodge it. The dart embedded itself in the sand with a hiss, the metal tip smoking slightly. Ceroba's eyes narrowed, her focus unwavering.

"You're going to pay for what you did to Kanako," she snarled, her eyes gleaming with anger. Shen's smile didn't falter.

"Ah, so you're the protective type," he said, his tone mocking. "But tell me, how much are you willing to risk for those who can't fight back? I would hate to be the one to leave behind those close to you as your husband once did to your daughter, you'd think repeating that mistake will lead to a better outcome?"

Ceroba's eyes blazed with fury, and she lunged at Shen with her staff. However, he was much faster and dodged with grace, his feathers fluttering as he moved. The peacock was playing with her, enjoying her anger, her fear. It was a manipulation tactic she knew all too well, and she refused to fall for it.

"Your anger is delicious," Shen jeered as he danced around her, firing more crimson blasts into the sand. Each explosion sent shockwaves through the ground, making it difficult for Ceroba to keep her footing. "But it won't be enough to save your precious little town from my wrath."

Ceroba gritted her teeth, her eyes never leaving the peacock's smug expression. She knew she had to keep her emotions in check, not let him bait her into making a mistake.

"You think you're so clever," she spat out, her staff spinning in a defensive pattern around her, "but you're just a coward hiding behind a weapon that does the fighting for you."

Shen chuckled, the sound grating on her nerves.

"Cleverness is the key to power, my dear," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "And power is all I've ever wanted."

With that, he lunged at her with surprising speed, his lance slicing through the air. Ceroba blocked the blow with her staff, the metal clanging against metal. The force of the impact sent a shockwave through her body, and she stumbled back.

Shen took the opportunity to press his advantage, firing another round of crimson blasts from his gun. Ceroba dove to the side, rolling in the sand as the explosions kicked up clouds of dust around her.

"Your kindness is your weakness," Shen taunted, his voice echoing through the dust. "In the world of the strong, there's no room to hold back! How will your friends save you when they can't even save themselves?!"

Ceroba's eyes flashed with defiance.

"My friends are not weak," she shouted over the din of the battle. "And neither am I!"

Shen's grin grew more sinister as he watched her.

"Bonds," he mused, "so fragile. So easily broken. I once had those bonds, but little was I aware that once the trust is broken, it's as if it never existed."

His eyes glinted with a dark memory, a tiny flicker of doubt spread across his eyes, and Ceroba saw it as an opening. She leaped into the air, her staff spinning like a tornado of fury, and slammed it down onto the ground where Shen had been standing. The sand erupted into a storm around her, but she had anticipated his move. He had darted into the air, his wings carrying him just out of reach.

Ceroba felt a chill run down her spine, but she didn't let it show.

"Your tactics won't work on me," she said, her voice steady despite the pounding in her chest.

Shen's eyes narrowed, the doubt replaced with cold calculation. He hovered in the air, his wings beating a slow, deliberate rhythm.

"Very well," he said, his voice icy. "If you wish to test your strength against mine, I'll indulge you."

With a flick of his wing, Lord Shen conjured a barrage of feather blades that shot towards Ceroba like a flock of angry birds. She moved with the grace of a seasoned warrior, her staff slicing through the air and deflecting the incoming projectiles with a series of clangs that rang out through the desert.

The battle grew more intense as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes. The air was thick with the scent of gunpowder and the metallic taste of fear. Ceroba's fur stood on end as she felt the weight of Shen's dark aura pressing down upon her.

She points her staff at Shen and uses it to unleash a burst of pink light, landing a direct hit on his chest. For a moment, he's thrown back by the force, but he quickly recovers, the intense glow in his eyes growing stronger.

"Is that all you've got?" He sneers, the metal on his body clanking as he adjusts his stance. "You're going to need more than that to stop me. Let's see how good your staff is against these!"

He whips out his feather blades and throws them at Ceroba with alarming speed, but she's quicker. She swipes her staff in a wide arc, the yellow energy leaving a trail in the air. The feathers clash with the staff, the impact sending sparks flying. Ceroba jumps back, her heart racing as she prepares for his next move.

Shen leaps into the air, his tail opening up as he glides for a short period of time, before charging at her from above with his curved lance in hand. Ceroba anticipates the move and rolls to the side, the lance barely missing her as it pierces the sand, leaving a crimson trail in its wake. As she gets back to her feet, she notices the pattern of the sand around her, an eerie reminder of the battle's stakes.

With a snarl, she charges at Shen, her staff now crackling with an electric red aura. The two clash again, their weapons meeting in a shower of sparks. The air is thick with tension as the fight escalates, each blow echoing across the quiet desert. Ceroba's mind races, searching for an opening, a weakness she can exploit.

Shen's feathered blades dance around her, each strike a deadly flurry of white feathers. Ceroba parries and dodges, her movements precise and calculated. But she could feel the strain in her muscles, the weight of her staff growing heavier with each passing moment. The power behind Shen's blows was immense, and she knew she couldn't keep this up forever.

The peacock's eyes gleamed with amusement, as if he enjoyed their dance of steel and feathers. His laughter was cold, a stark contrast to the warmth of the setting sun.

"You can fight well, but you can't fight forever," Ceroba ground out, her breaths coming in short, sharp gasps. She could feel her strength waning, but she refused to let Shen see it. She feinted to the left, then spun on her heel and brought her staff down in an arc, aiming for his head.

Shen saw the move coming and ducked, the staff whistling past his ear. He took the opportunity to fire another round from his gun, the crimson blasts peppering the sand around Ceroba. She rolled away, her fur singeing from the heat.

"Your resolve is commendable," he said, his voice laced with condescension. "But it won't be enough to stop me from achieving what I've set out to do."

Ceroba's eyes narrowed, and she took a deep breath, focusing her energy. She had to end this, now. With a swift move, she swung her staff in an upward arc, aiming to knock the lance from Shen's grip. He anticipated her move and countered with a spin, his tail lashing out and wrapping around the staff. The force of the move sent Ceroba stumbling back, and she barely had time to react before he was on her again.

Their weapons clashed once more, the sound echoing through the dunes. The air was charged with energy as they circled each other, looking for an opening. Ceroba knew that she had to find a way to disarm Shen, to neutralize his greatest advantage.

As they continued their fierce dance, she noticed that with each clang of their weapons, Shen's smile grew wider, his eyes glinting with excitement. He was enjoying the battle, feeding off the chaos he was creating.

"This isn't a game!" Ceroba yelled, her frustration mounting. She needed to hit him where it hurt, to show him that she wasn't just a plaything for his amusement.

Shen's smile grew even more sadistic at her outburst.

"Isn't it, though?" he said, his eyes glinting with a madness that sent a chill down Ceroba's spine. "Life is but a stage, and we are but players, acting out our parts until the final curtain call. And I refuse to let my tale ever end!"

With a cackle, he unfurled his wings, the feathers reflecting the last remnants of sunlight, and took to the sky. Ceroba watched him ascend, her mind racing for a countermove.

"You think you're so clever, hiding up there," Ceroba shouted, her eyes never leaving the sky. "But this stage has room for only one performance!"

Shen hovered above, his wings beating a steady rhythm against the wind. With a flick of his wrist, he sent a volley of feathered projectiles raining down on her, their sharp tips glinting with malicious intent. Ceroba dove to the side, her heart pounding as the feathers pierced the ground where she had been standing moments before.

And with one quick swipe of her staff, she unleashes a red energy ball toward Shen and lands a direct hit on his chest, knocking him back to the ground. Ceroba nears him and points her staff at him.

"This is your last chance to leave peacefully," she called out, her voice carrying across the desert. "Now, I demand answers! What do you want?"

"You think that knowing is going to make you satisfied, huh?" Shen asked with a creepy smile, "Fill some hole in your heart? Well, you're wasting your breath. And I'll give you my answer now."

The peacock moves his head up a bit, his eyes gleaming with intensity.

"Your family is on the brink of destruction," Shen said, his smile never faltering as he got back to his feet. "Your precious home will burn, and your child will know fear like never before."

Ceroba's eyes flashed with a fierce determination she had never felt before. This was not just about her anymore; it was about her family and her friends.

"But if you want to progress to be delayed..." Shen mused quietly. And before Ceroba can react, Shen brings out his gun and shoots the ground, the sand mixing with the fireworks in front of her, blocking her view of him.

Ceroba shields her face from the explosion, feeling the heat wash over her. When she opens her eyes again, Shen is gone. The crimson explosives are now mixing with the desert sand, creating an eerie scene that she wishes she could burn into her mind's eye so she'd never forget the horrors she's witnessing.

As the sandy dust clears up, Ceroba's eyes glance at the ground, noticing a lone white feather lying in the crimson-tinted sand. A grim reminder of the enemy she faced. She picked up the feather, her thoughts racing.

With her urgency reaching a high point, she turns and sprints back to the Wild East, the echoes of Shen's taunts ringing in her ears. She has to warn Chujin and the others. The thought of Kanako being in danger fuels her speed. As she runs, she can't help but wonder what Lord Shen's true intentions are. Was he really after power, or was there something more personal driving his vendetta against them?

The sun had fully set by the time she reaches Oasis Valley. The village was bustling with activity as monsters rushed to prepare for whatever threat Shen posed. Ceroba's eyes darted around, searching for Chujin. Finally, she spots him speaking with a group of worried villagers, their faces illuminated by the flickering lights of torches and candles.

"Chujin!" she called out, panting. He turned and spotted her, his expression a mix of relief and concern.

"Ceroba, what happened?" he asked, rushing to her side.

"I found some more intel about that peacock you encountered," Ceroba explained, "His name is Lord Shen, and he's not from around here. He's dangerous, Chujin. He's got some kind of vendetta against us, but I wasn't able to get a reason why."

Chujin's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with the implications.

"This is worse than I thought," Chujin murmured, his brow furrowed as he took in Ceroba's words. The residents around them grew quiet, their eyes wide with fear and uncertainty.

"We must prepare," he said, his voice firm. "Plan out our defense and spread the word. We can't let fear control us, but we must be ready for anything."

Ceroba nodded, her eyes still on the crimson-stained sand. She then looks around for a moment before turning back to her husband.

"Is Kanako still with you?" Ceroba asked urgently, her eyes scanning the sandyscape.

"No," Chujin replied, his expression growing grim. "She's at home, recovering from the shock. I decided to take her back from the playground once she started to get overwhelmed by her thoughts about that peacock. Hm... Lord Shen you said was his name, correct?"

Ceroba felt a pang of guilt. She had been so focused on finding Shen, she had forgotten about her daughter's newfound trauma.

"We'll keep her safe," she assured Chujin, her voice steady despite the tremble in her heart. "We'll work together and protect our home and our child, no matter what."

Chujin nodded, his gaze resolute.

"What else were you able to find out?" he pressed, his eyes searching hers for any clue that could give them an edge.

"I didn't get much from him, as he's really good at manipulation," Ceroba said, her eyes darkening as she recalled the encounter. "But I found this."

She handed Chujin the white feather, and he studied it carefully, his brows knitting together.

"He's been watching us," Ceroba continued, her voice tight with tension. "He knows about us, about our family. We can't let him anywhere near Kanako."

Chujin's eyes widened as he examined the feather, his grip tightening around it. The weight of their situation was palpable, and the residents around them grew quieter, sensing the gravity of the conversation.

"We must inform the others," Chujin said firmly, turning to the gathering crowd. "Tell everyone you can find in the Dunes that there is a new threat. A white peacock with a... firework ammo gun. Have them be on guard."

The villagers nodded solemnly, and one by one, they dispersed to spread the alarm. Ceroba felt the burden of responsibility weigh heavily on her shoulders as she watched them go. The fate of their world was in their hands, and she had never felt so ill-prepared.

"And I'll gather the Feisty Five, show them the details I uncovered," she said, determination in her voice. "We'll need everyone's help to stop him. We can't underestimate his power."

Chujin nodded gravely.

"But we can't just rally the troops without a solid plan. We need to understand his motives, his capabilities," He reminded her, "We don't know if he's acting alone or if he's got more of that... explosive ammo."

Ceroba nodded in agreement, her mind racing with thoughts of strategy and potential alliances.

"We'll need to find out more about his history, his weaknesses," she said, her eyes gleaming with resolve. "If he's from another world, he's bound to have vulnerabilities we can exploit."

The two of them stood for a moment, the silence between them charged with the gravity of the situation. With that, Ceroba turned and dashed off into the Dunes, her heart heavy with the weight of her newfound knowledge and the fear for her home and her people. The wind whipped past her, carrying the faint scent of metal and gunpowder. It was a scent she had hoped never to encounter again, but here it was, a grim reminder of the battles to come.

Chujin, keeping the white feather tightly in his grip, watched as Ceroba disappeared into the Dunes. He knew she was right. They needed a plan, and they needed it quickly. For now, he decided to head back home and check on Kanako, refusing to not be there for her again like what happened in Snowdin.

Chapter Text

During the next day, Chujin went along to Snowdin. He knew it would be best to scout across the snowy landscape for any trace of Shen here after the attack Kanako witnessed two days ago. Both she and Ceroba are gonna spend some mother-daughter time together, where Ceroba ensured she would begin to plan to find the peacock and put a stop to him.

As the research continued, Chujin found a couple different things. He saw some small traces of crimson snow. It wasn't blood, but he knew it was a part of that... that firework ammo from Shen's gun. The sight of it made him furious, but he kept his calm, for the sake of Kanako, who was with Ceroba to calm down.

Ceroba said something about "having inner peace" and "finding strength within" as she was helping Kanako through her trauma. It was something she had learned from her own battles, and she hoped it would resonate with her daughter.

Chujin collected some of the specks of crimson snow, hoping to research a way to counteract or detect the strange substance. It was faint, but it was there, a grim reminder of the power the peacock wielded.

"I must be careful," Chujin murmured to himself, his eyes scanning the horizon. "I can't let this madness consume us."

The gray fox monster growls under his breath, rubbing his temple with his free hand.

"That damn peacock," Chujin grumbled to himself, his eyes narrowing at the crimson specks scattered across the otherwise pristine white snow. His mind was racing with ideas for protecting his home, and he knew that understanding the properties of Shen's weaponry was crucial.

A deep sigh escapes Chujin's lips as he pockets the crimson snow. He knows he must keep his mind focused on the task at hand. But the events of the attack made his fur bristle with frustration and anger.

"Hrrrmf... I need some time to think," Chujin muttered to himself, retreating deeper back into Snowdin. Stopping by Martlet's house, he climbs the ladder to the rooftop. The two have spoken to each other for a hangout when Chujin first arrived since the dreaded attack on the town.

Once he reached the top, he sits down, his legs dangling over the edge. With his paws at his lap, he was lost in thought. The crimson snow in his paw was a stark reminder of the battle's intensity. The wind was picking up, and the snow was swirling around him. He had to come up with a plan. The safety of his village was at stake, and he couldn't let fear dictate his actions. He had to be smart, like those he once admired.

His glasses fog up as he thought about Kanako. He cursed under his breath, wishing he was there to protect her. The thought of her being scared, scarred by the event, made his fur bristle again. He had to find a way to ensure she never had to experience that terror again.

His thoughts were interrupted when he heard a whooshing sound from above. There, he saw Martlet flying by and landing right next to him. She took a seat next to him, holding two mugs of coffee in each hand.

"One cup of joe for the boss- extra caffeinated!" Martlet exclaimed, offering one of the mugs to him.

Chujin took it gratefully, the warmth seeping through his paws and into his cold fur. He took a sip, feeling the jolt of energy rush through him.

"Is that my title now?" Chujin chuckled weakly. "It's not like I pay you to help me."

"Oh? See these drinks?" Martlet mentioned, a quirky smile appearing on her face.

"Martlet..." Chujin murmured, his eyes still on the crimson snow in his paw, hidden from Martlet's sight.

"You should really pay that tab soon. The list is getting long!" Martlet said with a wink.

Chujin lets out a nervous chuckle, taking another sip of the scalding coffee. The warmth of the beverage did little to melt the chill of dread that had settled in his heart. He knew Martlet was just joking, but the mention of his growing tab was a gentle reminder of the responsibilities he had back home.

The two continue to have their drinks in peace. Chujin felt those thoughts appear in his head, but he tried not to let it show through his face. After a moment of silence, Martlet turns her head to her mentor.

"Oh, I meant to tell you... we'll probably have to cut back on our hangouts soon," She said, frowning a bit.

"Hm?" Chujin hummed, raising an eyebrow.

"I, uh," Martlet stated, "I finally gave into peer pressure and... got a job."

"Really? What good news!" Chujin exclaimed, genuinely pleased for Martlet. Despite his own concerns, he knew the importance of celebrating small victories. He knew Martlet's "scatterbrained" personality was mostly enough for her volunteer work in that workshop, but getting a real job showed her growing maturity and the trust in her capabilities.

"Heh, I don't see it that way..." Martlet whispered, rubbing the back of her neck with her wing.

"Well, you can't freeload forever," Chujin reminded her with a grin, teasing his former apprentice.

"I knoooow, I know!" Martlet sighed dramatically, rolling her eyes.

"What's the job?" Chujin asked, his curiosity piqued despite the gravity of their current situation.

"Well," Martlet replied as her eyes brighten up, "I wanted a job where I could build things, so... I signed up for the Royal Guard."

Chujin's eyes shrink as the last two words were spoken. He almost felt the mug drop from his hand, the words pushing through his chest.

"The-" Chujin began, his voice catching in his throat. He took a moment to process her words, his mind racing with the implications. "Martlet..."

"What?" The cyan bird monster asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I don't... there's gotta be a better job out there," Chujin said, his voice tight.

"What's wrong with the Royal Guard?" Martlet questioned, her expression one of innocent confusion before smiling casually. "Besides building puzzles, all they do is sit around all day. Practically tailor-made for me!"

Chujin took a deep breath, setting his mug aside. He knew that Martlet had her heart set on this, and he couldn't deny her the opportunity to grow and contribute to their world. But the timing was less than ideal with the looming threat of Lord Shen.

"It isn't that simple," Chujin began, his eyes never leaving the horizon. "On rare occasions, Guards have to do their job. Their REAL job.

"You're talking about humans, right?" Martlet asked, her smile fading a bit. "I'm aware. But come on... it's gotta be like a 0.1% chance I run into a human!"

Chujin nodded solemnly, his gaze still on the distant horizon.

"And even if I did, I'm a good people-person," Martlet continued, her voice filled with false bravado. "Escorting them through the Underground wouldn't be a problem."

"Humans are dangerous!" Chujin said with a firmness that made Martlet flinch.

"Whoa..." Martlet inches back, her smile fading.

"They cannot be trusted and certainly not 'escorted,'" Chujin said, his voice tight. "Sorry, but you should not put yourself in harm's way."

"What do you mean?" Martlet asked, her eyes wide with surprise. "Surely they can't ALL be bad... right?"

"Remember the Snowdin Attack?" Chujin said, his voice heavy with the memory.

"Yeah... I was there when it began," Martlet said, her voice small. "But it's been a couple days, and nothing else has happened. Besides, the Royal Guard is our best defense."

Chujin sighed, his eyes closing briefly. He knew Martlet's intentions were pure, but he couldn't help but worry.

"You think monsters can just forget what they've done?" Chujin's voice was a mix of anger and sadness. "The Royal Guard's primary job is to protect the Underground from humans, Martlet. They're not tour guides."

"But the king mentioned that-" Martlet began, but Chujin cut her off.

"I don't care what the king mentioned!" Chujin's voice grew louder, his frustration spilling over. Martlet's eyes shrink at her mentor's sudden outburst, and she took a sip of her coffee, unsure of what to say next.

Chujin realized his sudden mistake and lets out a deep sigh, placing a hand on his forehead.

"I'm sorry, Martlet," he said, his voice calming. "I didn't mean to snap like that. It's just... we've got a lot to think about. This peacock... Lord Shen... he's dangerous. And he's got his eyes on something here, I can feel it."

The cyan bird looked at him with a concerned expression.

"What do you mean?" Martlet asked, her eyes narrowing in concern.

"I don't know for certain," Chujin admitted, his gaze drifting to the crimson snow. "But I have a feeling he's not just here to cause chaos. He's searching for something, or someone. We need to be prepared."

"That... that's serious, Chujin," Martlet said, her voice shaking slightly. "Do you think we should tell Asgore?"

"I... I'm not showing my face to him again as long as I live," Chujin mumbled into his mug, his eyes reflecting his regret and frustration.

"Oh... so, have you been finding clues to... confront him?" Martlet's voice was quieter now, the mood between them shifting.

"I witnessed traces of the leftover power from those crimson snowflakes," Chujin said, his voice low and serious. "One of the bleakest days of my life. It seems to be something like fireworks, but much more... volatile. We must find out what he's after and what his true intentions are before he causes any more harm."

The gravity of the situation settled on Martlet, her usual cheerfulness dimming. She took a sip of her coffee, contemplating the implications. Chujin looks out into the sky, lost in his thoughts again.

"What I'm saying is... humans are merciless," He continued. "Incapable of decency in any form. Believe me."

"Ch-Chujin... you can't just say that," Martlet said, her voice trembling slightly. "There must be good ones."

Chujin looked at her, his expression a mix of sadness and resignation.

"I know you want to believe in the good in everyone," he said, his eyes gentle. "But the humans we encountered... they were not good. If Lord Shen wasn't there, that human could have hurt us all."

Martlet looks down at her feet, her mind racing. She had heard the stories, but the reality of it was something else. She knew Chujin wasn't one to make baseless accusations, so she had to believe him.

"If it makes you feel any better... I'm not posted anywhere near the hotspots," Martlet assured. "Well, it is a 'hot' spot, but... it's just Lab duty."

"Guarding the Royal Scientist's almighty fortress?" Chujin asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah, that's all," Martlet replied, a hint of embarrassment in her voice. Chujin looks down, silently processing her words.

The two look down at their half-drinken mugs of coffee, each lost in their own thoughts. The wind picked up, blowing more crimson snow around them. Chujin took another sip of his coffee, letting the warmth seep through his fur. He knew he couldn't change Martlet's mind easily, but he had to make sure she knew the risks.

"Why don't we just call it a day?" Chujin suggested, his eyes still on the tiny specks of crimson snow.

"Yeah... probably for the best," Martlet murmured, nodding slowly. She took a final sip of her coffee before taking flight again, leaving Chujin to his thoughts.

Chujin watched her go, his mind racing with the implications of what he had just heard. He knew he couldn't change Martlet's mind easily, but he had to make sure she knew the gravity of the situation. The thought of her getting involved with humans, with their destructive capabilities, was a fear he had hoped never to face.

He stood up, brushing the snow off his fur. It was time to return to the village and report to Ceroba. She needed to know about Martlet's decision and the potential new threat that Lord Shen posed. He hoped that together, they could find a way to protect everyone they cared about.

As he walked, he couldn't help but think back to the days before the barrier was raised. The wars, the fear, and the endless nights spent listening for the sounds of human footsteps. He had hoped that those days were long behind them, but the presence of Lord Shen and his mysterious ammo suggested otherwise. The fact that this wasn't a human causing this chaos was almost more unsettling. If a monster could wield such power, what did it mean for their future interactions with humans?

As the conversation between Martlet and Chujin was happening, Ceroba and Kanako walks around Oasis Valley, where the two of them enter the saloon.

It was much more quieter than before, probably because Starlo isn't there. But Ceroba saw the rest of the Feisty Four, so that eased her mind a bit. Ceroba took a seat and pats the one next to her, encouraging Kanako to sit down.

The young kitsune looked around the saloon nervously, her eyes darting towards the bar as if she was expecting to see the source of their fear, but instead, she saw Mooch, the playful member of the Feisty Five, serving drinks and cracking jokes with the patrons.

Feeling a bit calmer, Kanako sits down next to Ceroba, her eyes never leaving the patrons. The saloon's warm light flickered, casting shadows that danced across their faces.

Dina glances over at the two foxes as she finishes drying some glasses for the next set of drinks to be served.

"The usual, Ceroba?" Dina asked, her voice a low rumble as she slithered over to them.

Ceroba nodded, her eyes scanning the room for any signs of trouble.

"Yes, please," she said, her voice tight.

"And for your little troublemaker?" Dina inquired, her gaze softening as she looked at Kanako.

Kanako shrank back into her seat, her eyes wide with fear. Dina notices this and raises an eyebrow. All the time she's known Kanako, she was so playful, courageous, even a bit stubborn, and it was strange to see her like this: so jumpy, so scared.

"...Is she okay?" Dina's eyes narrowed as she spoke, sliding a glass of root beer towards Kanako, the ice clinking gently.

"It's... nothing," Ceroba replied, her voice tight. "Just a... a bad dream she had."

"Yeesh... must've been a big one," Dina murmured, placing a gentle hand on Ceroba's shoulder. "If you ever need to talk... at least, if it's not your hubby or the sheriff... you can come to me," she offered with a wink.

Ceroba offered a small smile, appreciative of Dina's concern but knew she couldn't divulge the true cause of Kanako's fear.

"Anyways, here's your ice water," Dina says, sliding a glass of ice water to Ceroba, her eyes lingering on the young kitsune.

Ceroba nodded her thanks, her gaze never leaving the room. Despite the comforting warmth of the saloon, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in her stomach. The silence between them grew heavy, filled with unspoken fears and worries.

Dina heads back to the middle of the counter to prepare more drinks. Now that the two are to themselves for a while, Ceroba reached out and took her daughter's paw in hers, giving it a comforting squeeze.

"It's okay, sweetie," Ceroba whispered. "You're safe here."

Kanako nodded, but her eyes remained fixed on the door, as if expecting the peacock to burst in at any moment. Ceroba felt a pang of guilt for not being able to protect her daughter from the horror she had witnessed. She knew she had to be strong for her, to be the leader the residents looked up to, but the fear was palpable.

The tension in Ceroba's posture lessened when the Feisty Four glanced over from their seats, hoping to be close enough to ease the atmosphere.

"Ceroba! Back already, I see," Moray said, smiling as they fold their hands on the table.

"I knew that our invitation to check on you reach out," Mooch added, smirking a bit as her squirrel tail twitches. "Nah, just kidding- we never sent anything, but we all had you on our minds!"

The four looked at Ceroba with concern, noticing her tension. She took a deep breath before speaking.

"Thank you for your worry, but we're just... taking a breather," Ceroba said, forcing a smile.

The Feisty Four exchanged glances, clearly not fooled by her attempt at lightness. They knew something was amiss, but they respected her enough not to pry. Ed leaned in, his massive frame casting a shadow over the table.

"If there's anythin' we can do, you know we're here," he rumbled, his eyes serious.

Ceroba nodded, her smile genuine despite the turmoil within.

"Thank you, Ed," she said, her voice sincere. "Your friendship means a lot to us."

"Any friend of North Star's is a friend of ours," Ace said, his serious tone belying the usual mischief in his eyes. "But something seems off. You and Chujin are acting strange. What's going on?"

Ceroba sighed, the weight of her secrets heavy on her shoulders.

"It's about Lord Shen," she began, her voice barely above a whisper. "I confronted him at the Dunes and he escaped before he could cause more harm. That gun of his... it's not normal. It has a destructive ammo, one that can tear through the very fabric of our world."

The Feisty Four exchanged looks of shock and concern. They had heard the rumors but didn't think it would come to this.

"How so?" Moray asked, leaning closer to the table. "What makes it so... different?"

"You know those fireworks at those monthly festivals?" Ceroba began, her voice low and serious. "The ones that light up the night sky with such beauty?"

"Yeah?" Mooch leaned in, her curiosity piqued despite the gravity of the conversation.

"It's like that, but weaponized," Ceroba explained, her eyes darkening. "I believe it's connected to the surface world. He's been using it to manipulate and coerce others. We need to figure out what he's after and put a stop to it before it's too late."

The Feisty Four nodded gravely, understanding the severity of the situation.

"Well, we're here for you," Moray spoke up, placing a comforting hand on Ceroba's shoulder. "What can we do to help?"

"Hm... where is Starlo, by the way? I forgot to ask," Ceroba said, trying to change the topic slightly.

"Busy," Ace replied briefly, his gaze following Ceroba's. "He's with Asgore, discussing the situation."

Ceroba nodded, her expression tightening slightly. It was no surprise that the king was involved now. The thought of facing Shen again, with his deadly ammo, made her fur stand on end.

"Okay... well, let's discuss my plans, and you can tell him once he gets back," Ceroba said, her eyes flicking towards the door, as if willing Starlo to return. She took a deep breath, trying to push her fears aside. "We need to find out where he's hiding, what he's planning, and how we can counteract it."

"You said Shen had destructive ammo, correct?" Ed's deep voice cut through the quiet. "What exactly are we dealin' with here?"

Ceroba nodded, her grip on Kanako's paw tightening slightly.

"The bullets are explosive enough to shatter a monster's SOUL on impact," Ceroba explained, her eyes dark with concern. "They're not of this world. I suspect they come from the same place he does: the human world above."

Mooch's eyes widened, her tail dropping.

"Explosive ammo? That's... that's crazy!" She exclaimed, her voice a mix of disbelief and horror. "What does he want with it?"

"I'm not sure, but it's clear he means to do us harm," Ceroba replied, her eyes flickering to the door as if expecting Shen to appear any moment. "We need to be ready for anything."

The Feisty Four leaned in closer, the gravity of the situation settling in.

"We've got to put a stop to this," Moray said firmly. "But first, we need to know more about this gun and that firework ammo. It baffles me he managed to make ammo out of that."

"I've seen it firsthand," Ceroba nodded, her expression grim. "It's unlike anything we've faced before. We need to understand it to combat it effectively."

"And we will," Mooch assured, her tail swishing with determination. "We've faced plenty of trouble before, and we're still standing."

"But we can't just go charging in without a plan," Ace added, his sharp gaze on Ceroba. "We need intel, and fast."

"Agreed," Ceroba said, her eyes flashing with a hint of fire. "But where do we start?"

The group fell silent, each lost in their own thoughts, contemplating the gravity of the situation. It was Ed who broke the silence, his deep voice resonating through the saloon.

"We know he's been causin' trouble in the desert," Ed said thoughtfully, stroking his chin. "It's too bad you weren't able to get much outta him."

"He was too... elusive," Ceroba said, her voice tight. "But we know he has a vendetta against the world and sees this world as a playground for his power. We need to find his weakness before he finds a way to bring his destructive force to the rest of the Underground."

"Well, if he's been in the desert, that's where we should start looking," Ace suggested, his eyes sharp with focus. "If we can track his movements, maybe we can anticipate his next move. We can question new arrivals for any clues."

Ceroba nodded in agreement.

"And we need to keep an eye on warning as much as we can, even past the Dunes," she stated, her eyes never leaving the group.

The Feisty Four nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. They had seen Shen's arrival firsthand, but hearing him becoming a threat that had presumed he was, was alarming.

The group's conversation grew more heated as they brainstormed potential leads and strategies. Ceroba's mind raced, trying to piece together the puzzle that was Lord Shen's intentions. The crimson snow, the gun, and his newfound power in the Underground. It all pointed to something much larger than just a simple quest for vengeance.

"We also need to find a way to track the ammo," Moray said, their eyes searching the room as if the answer were hidden somewhere within the saloon's walls. "We know it's not common in the Underground. It must be leaving a trail."

"And we know he's not the only one with destructive power," Ceroba murmured, her gaze drifting to the saloon window. "The question is, who else is involved? I haven't seen him with an army. It's just him."

"It doesn't matter," Mooch said, her voice sharp. "One monster with a taste for destruction is more than enough."

The Feisty Four nodded solemnly. Ceroba knew that they were right; they had to act swiftly and decisively. The thought of Shen gaining more power or allies was too terrifying to consider.

"I'll head to Waterfall," she said, standing up. "It's the next logical step in his path. Maybe I can catch him before he reaches Hotland. If not, then hopefully I can find some trace of his movements."

The Feisty Four looked at her, their expressions a mix of admiration and worry.

"Be careful, Ceroba," Mooch cautioned, her eyes serious. "We don't know what he's capable of."

"I know," Ceroba said, her gaze meeting each of theirs in turn. "But we can't let fear control us. We have to be smarter, quicker. We need to anticipate his moves. And his words... his manipulation... we can't let it divide us."

The Feisty Four nodded, understanding the gravity of her words. The saloon grew quieter as the gravity of the situation settled in, the only sound the occasional clink of ice in their glasses and Kanako finishing her root beer, as well as the distant echo of the Dunes' howling wind.

"We'll keep an eye on things here," Moray assured, a steely resolve in their eyes. "If he shows up again, we won't let him get away without a fight. We'll ensure North Star can get here, too, to show that bird some manners."

Ceroba offered a small smile, grateful for the support. She knew she couldn't do this alone.

"Thank you," she said, her voice strong. "Let's keep in touch. If any of you find anything, no matter how small, don't hesitate to send a message."

The Feisty Four nodded in unison, and Ceroba took one last look at her daughter, who had begun to relax slightly in her presence. She then tugs her mom's kimono sleeve, and she looks back down at the younger kitsune.

"I have to go to the bathroom," Kanako murmured, her voice small and shaky. Ceroba nodded, her heart aching for her daughter.

"I'll be right here," she assured, giving Kanako's paw a gentle squeeze. "Just come back as soon as you're done."

Kanako nodded, her eyes still wide with fear. She slipped away from the table, disappearing into the back of the saloon. Ceroba watched her go, her heart heavy with concern. It wasn't just about the prophecy or Lord Shen anymore; it was about protecting her daughter, her family, and the peace of the Underground.

As soon as her daughter was out of sight, Ceroba turned to the Feisty Four.

"You think it's better to split up, or stick together with Star?" Ceroba asked, her eyes reflecting the seriousness of their mission.

"It's a tough call," Mooch mused, twirling a lock of her hair. "But if he's as sneaky as you say, splitting up might give us more ground to cover."

"But we're stronger together," Ed pointed out, his deep voice rumbling. "And we don't know what we're up against."

"True," Moray nodded. "But if we stick together, we might miss something important. Plus, we've got to consider the prophecy. If he's after those human SOULs... the Underground is doomed."

Ceroba knew they were right. They had to be strategic in their approach to taking down Lord Shen. With a firm nod, she took one last swig of her drink and set the glass down on the counter.

"Alright, let's do this," she said, determination in her voice. "Ed, you and Ace check the path to Waterfall with me. Mooch, keep an eye on the residents here, maybe they know more than they're letting on. And Moray, I want you to gather information from the recent arrivals, see if any of them have had dealings with Shen."

The Feisty Four nodded, understanding the gravity of their mission.

"We'll be careful," Ed promised, his large hands flexing.

"And I'll make sure to sweet talk any secrets out," Mooch said with a wink.

The group of five stood, their expressions a mix of determination and trepidation. With one last look at each other, everyone gave a firm nod, and the Feisty Four exit the saloon to carry out their given duties.

Kanako emerged from the bathroom, her eyes red from crying but her expression slightly less fearful. Ceroba took a deep breath and bent down to her daughter's level.

"Kanako? Were you crying?" Ceroba's voice was gentle as she knelt before her daughter, her eyes searching the young kitsune's face.

Kanako sniffled, her tail drooping.

"I just... I don't want to talk about it," she whispered, her eyes avoiding Ceroba's gaze.

Ceroba's heart clenched, but she knew pushing wouldn't help. Instead, she wrapped her arms around Kanako, holding her close.

"Love you lots," Ceroba cooed gently.

"Love you more," Kanako replied, her voice muffled against Ceroba's fur. The mother's embrace was warm and comforting, a stark contrast to the chilling fear that had gripped her since Shen's attack. Ceroba felt the tremor in her daughter's body slowly subside as she held her.

As they stepped out into the cool night air of Oasis Valley, Ceroba took a moment to look around. The vibrant life of the village was a stark contrast to the bleakness of the dunes. She had to admit, the place had its charms.

"Okay, Kanako, let's take you back home," Ceroba said gently, her eyes filled with a fierce protectiveness. "You've been through enough tonight."

Kanako nodded, clutching onto Ceroba's arm as they began the journey back. The walk was silent, the only sound the crunching of the sand beneath their feet. Ceroba's mind raced with thoughts of Shen and his firework ammo, but she kept her worries hidden, not wanting to scare her daughter any further than she already is.

As they approached the Ketsukane Estate, the lights were still on, casting a warm glow into the night.

"Daddy should be back home soon, so just wait here, okay?" Ceroba whispered into Kanako's ear as they stood outside the Ketsukane Estate. Her heart was heavy, but she knew she couldn't let Shen's words affect her.

Kanako nodded again, trying to muster up a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. Ceroba knew it was forced, but she appreciated the effort. With one last pat on the head, she turned and strode out of the Estate's courtyard, her gaze set on the path that would lead her to Waterfall. The night was eerily calm, the only sound the distant whisper of the desert's wind, carrying with it the promise of trouble.

Ceroba's mind raced with Kanako's safety as she left her daughter in the house. She knew she had to find Lord Shen before he could cause more harm. And she will make him pay.

Chapter Text

a week later...

About a week has passed by since a couple days of the Snowdin Attack, Shen's reign of terror, and the Ketsukanes' own personal struggles after those all took place. The Feisty Five have continued their goals with both Ceroba and Starlo to confront Shen and put a stop to his tyranny before he harms everyone in the Underground.

Ceroba chimed in to gather her own intel, finding some spots within Waterfall and Hotland. She didn't explore much of Waterfall, due to it usually being guarded by Undyne, the captain of the Royal Guard and a warrior who sticks true to her words. There's nothing wrong with her, of course, but... Ceroba didn't take much of that chance.

As for Hotland, there weren't too many traces of Shen, even when she asked Alphys, the Royal Scientist, if she's seen any trace of things like feathers or explosive powder. So Ceroba was on her own for this, and she won't stop there.

Back with the Feisty Five, Starlo came with a miraculous discovery to his posse about Shen's current whereabouts. Within New Home, far from the castle where Asgore resides, there lays a small abandoned temple with cherry blossom trees. And Starlo knew Shen was there because, on his way back from telling Asgore about the new threat, he found his distinctive feathers; not from just a bird, but from the white peacock himself.

Starlo decided to keep the news away from Ceroba for now, and instead have him and his posse confront the peacock themselves. Even though Ceroba was proposed to another man, Starlo never stopped caring for her, and he didn't want her put in harm's way. It was a risk he was willing to take if it meant keeping her and her family safe.

Meanwhile, in secrecy, Chujin was beginning to make more recordings and make more experiments. Still holding onto past grudges of the Snowdin Attack, he began to experiment with the blue human SOUL. Figure out its intentions and possibly how to use it.

He knew it was dangerous, but his curiosity was getting the better of him. If he could harness the power within, perhaps he could use it to protect his family from the likes of Shen. He couldn't let Asgore see his hands on a human SOUL, at least not yet. Chujin still wanted to protect the Underground from the likes of humans, and if he could find a way to control it, then maybe he could prevent another war from happening.

A miraculous discovery is portrayed. Chujin has a very rare gene. He is a Boss Monster. It is said throughout monster history that Boss Monsters possess greater power and matter than that of a regular monster. That same gene has been passed down to his daughter, Kanako. Boss Monsters are almost non-existent, as the only known ones in the Underground were King Asgore, the Underground's queen, who people don't know if she's still alive, and the deceased prince.

With the blue human SOUL, he extracted some of its power and he theorized a creation. A serum, made with the combination of a human SOUL and a Boss Monster SOUL. This serum combination would allow any monster to become a Boss Monster, in hopes of taking the Surface back and expand the power of their kind.

However, there was one problem. Upon extracting the DNA from the blue human SOUL, Chujin noticed that the SOUL wasn't "pure." All his life, he believed his tale of humans being nothing but trouble - dangerous to fight against. Despite the SOUL's lack of purity, Chujin continued to experiment to make the serum a reality. He used the serum on himself. Multiple times.

A bad move on his part. A monster's SOUL doesn't have enough power to withstand the willpower a human SOUL holds. Thus, Chujin's SOUL began to deteriorate at an alarming rate, in which he got more ill by the second.

With no other choice, he made a final recorded message for Ceroba to continue where he left off: but to continue it by finding another human with a pure SOUL and find another Boss Monster that isn't Kanako, as he didn't want her to be involved in his endeavors.

Shen stares in front of the open windows of the temple. He is once again preparing his monologuing, being the perfectionist that he is.

"Greetings, Ketsukane, we meet again!" Shen mused to himself, trying to find the perfect phrase. He bobs his head around a little bit before frowning and grumbling under his breath, unsatisfied with his monologue.

He takes a moment to clear his throat, and moves his wing in a stride that displays his overconfidence.

"Greetings, Ketsukane! At last, we meet again," He said to the window before ending it by moving his wing up, unsheathing his collection of feather blades. He stays silent for a couple seconds before grinning, nodding his head.

"Yes! Perfect!" He cheered to himself before hearing the rustle of footsteps.

"Shen!" A familiar voice shouted. Shen immediately perked up. Glancing out the window, he noticed it was Starlo, the leader of the Feisty Five, standing tall in front of the temple's entrance with a look of determination on his face. The cherry blossom petals fluttered around him, giving him an air of valor.

"Oh great, looks like the 'sheriff' has arrived," Shen scoffed, turning to the door. He opens it with dramatic flair, feathers fluttering around him as he steps out to meet Starlo. "I've been expecting you. Did you miss me?"

"Hardly," Starlo said, his starry eyes narrowing as he took in the sight of Lord Shen, standing arrogant and unscathed amidst the cherry blossom petals. "Your kind isn't welcome here."

"So you've figured it out in that five-pointed brain of yours, huh?" Shen sneered, his feathers ruffling in the warm breeze that swept through the abandoned temple. "Tell me, what do you intend to do with your newfound knowledge?"

Starlo's gaze didn't waver.

"We're going to stop you, Shen. You can't keep bringing chaos to our world," He said, his voice sharp like the blade of a sword. His hands hovered near his holster, ready to draw if needed.

"And what do you mean, 'we?'" Shen questioned, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.

"The Feisty Five," Starlo corrected himself, a smirk tugging at his lips. "We won't let you go unchecked."

As if on cue, Ed, Ace, and Mooch emerged from the shadows of the cherry blossom trees, each with their own unique expressions of readiness to face the infamous peacock. Ed's burly form was tense, Ace's stoic demeanor was met with a sharp gaze, and Mooch had her usual nonchalant smirk, her arms crossed over her chest. And from above, Moray makes a stylish entrance, flipping next to their comrades.

"Looks like we're all here," Ed said, cracking his knuckles. "Ready to dance?"

"Dance?" Shen's smile grew wider. "More like a performance. You're going to witness the power of the mortal world's might!"

"Who's to say you have a chance, peacock?" Mooch challenged, stepping forward. Her whip-like tail snapped with the tension in the air. "There's one of you, and five of us! That's pretty pathetic odds, don't you think?"

Shen chuckled darkly, his eyes gleaming with a dangerous light.

"I'm so glad you're willing to entertain me," He said, his feathers ruffling in amusement. "But let's not forget, I am the one holding the gun."

"So is he," Ace mentioned, vaguely pointing a finger towards their leader, Starlo. Shen's eyes widened in surprise before he burst out laughing.

"Do you actually believe that a mere toy can threaten me?!" Shen mocked, his gaze flicking to Starlo's side where a large, gleaming pistol rested in a holster. "Your weapons are nothing compared to the power of mass destruction!"

"We know what North Star's capable of," Moray spoke up, their eyes gleaming with confidence. "And we're not just five monsters with a grudge. We're a team with a purpose."

Starlo's gaze didn't falter despite Shen's gun pointing right at him.

"The choice is yours now, partner," Starlo said to Shen. "You can either drop that weapon and come with us, or we'll have to take it from you."

Shen's laughter faded, his expression turning to one of cold anger.

"You dare threaten me?" He spat, his hand tightening around the handle of his gun. "You think you can simply take away what's mine?!"

With a dramatic flourish, Shen raised his gun, the barrel smoking slightly. The Feisty Five tensed, ready to leap into action. However, before the first shot could be fired, Ed was the first to rise up in the air, trying to land an aerial attack with his fist.

Quickly putting his gun away, Shen grabs his rope dart in his left wing and spins it around. The Feisty Five spring into action, each one charging at Shen from a different angle. Ed's fist swings through the air, but Shen gracefully sidesteps, the rope dart whipping around and wrapping around Ed's wrist before pulling him off balance.

Taking advantage of this, Shen leaps into the air, his tail opening up in a dazzling display of patterns, and throws some feather blades at Mooch and Moray. They dodge with practiced ease, but the blades don't just disappear. They stick into the cherry blossom trees, damaging the branches slightly.

Mooch jumps back, her eyes widening as she realizes the blades are connected to Shen's tail.

"He's got a tail... like a whip!" she exclaimed.

"That pattern on the tips will distract you!" Ed warned, his eyes narrowing as he watched the feathers spin. He lunged at Shen again, aiming for his head.

Shen's grin widened, and with a flick of his tail, the feathers shot out like a barrage of whip-like tendrils, wrapping around Ed's arms and legs, effectively pinning him to the ground. The peacock landed gracefully, his talons crackling against the stone floor.

"Now, now, let's not get hasty," Shen taunted, his eyes gleaming with a sadistic glee. He sauntered over to Ed, his rope dart now a makeshift lash. "I've missed the thrill of a good battle. It's been too long since I've felt the rush of power! Let's see if you guys are as strong as that fox!"

Ace and Mooch circled around Shen, their tails twitching in anticipation. Starlo hovered above, his star-shaped head casting a shadow on the battleground.

Shen's eyes gazed around, watching their every move. He was enjoying this little game of cat and mouse.

"AAAAAHHH!" Shen lets out a battle cry as he charges towards Mooch and Ace, whipping out blades from his wing and tail, creating a storm of sharp feathers that dance around him like a tornado. Mooch jumps away, her eyes wide with surprise, while Ace narrowly dodges the onslaught.

Mooch's whip tail lashed out, aiming for Shen's legs, while Ace drew his card, the spade icon glinting in the gray light of New Home. The peacock's speed was surprising, and he managed to dodge Mooch's attack with a flick of his wing, then proceeds to kick her back. Ace's card shot through the air, only to be sliced in half by Shen's rope dart before it could make contact. The crimson light grew more intense, the air around them charged with energy.

Moray took this moment to strike from above, their spear pointed directly at Shen's head. But the peacock had anticipated the move. With a grace that matched his elegance, he twisted in mid-air and swiped the spear away with his feather blades.

He smirked, watching as Moray stumbled back, trying to regain their footing.

The tension grew palpable as the five monsters regrouped, their eyes never leaving the peacock. Ed struggled against the feather bindings, his muscles straining.

"Hrrgh... you won't get away with this," he grunted, his furious eyes burning into Shen's back as the latter taunted them. "We won't back down against the likes of you!"

Shen's smile remained, but his eyes flickered with something darker.

"You think your 'teamwork' can defeat a warrior like me?" He sneered, his voice echoing through the ruins of the ancient place. "I've seen empires crumble and armies flee before my might! You are but mere ants before the peacock's grandeur! I can match the strength of multiple opponents, so this is nothing new to me!"

The Feisty Five exchanged glances, each knowing the gravity of the situation. They had to be smart about this, use their strengths to counter Shen's.

"Mooch, keep him busy with your speed!" Starlo ordered, his voice firm and commanding. "Ed, when you get free, use your brute force! Moray, keep an eye on the sky and strike when you see an opening!"

Mooch nodded, her eyes gleaming with determination. She took a deep breath, her body coiling like a spring, and shot forward, her tail lashing out like a whip, aiming to tangle Shen's legs. But the peacock was too fast, leaping over her tail with surprising agility.

His own tail opens up, gaining part of an intimidation factor, and uses it to swipe Mooch away to the side, feathers flying as they cut through the air. Moray takes this opportunity to leap, their spear pointed straight at Shen's heart, a silent cry of determination escaping their lips. However, the peacock anticipates this move as well, spinning around and using the rope dart to catch the spear in mid-air. With a twirl of his tail, he pulls Moray closer, aiming to pin them down with his own tail.

But Moray is not one to be easily caught. They twirl in the air, the spear acting as a counterweight to Shen's rope dart, and deliver a swift kick to his beak. Shen's grip loosens, allowing Moray to land gracefully beside Ed, who has managed to break free from the feather bindings.

Above them, Starlo readies his weapon. This is the moment of truth. The sheriff's eyes gleam with the light of the setting sun, his star-shaped head a beacon of hope in the shadowy battleground.

He grabs his gun and aims it at Shen, his hand steady despite the racing of his heart. The peacock prince's grin turns into a snarl, his eyes narrowing as he watches the sheriff.

"You think that toy can harm me?" Shen spat, his contempt clear. "You're all so naive!"

With a roar, Ed broke free from his bindings, his muscles bulging as he lunged at Shen. The peacock prince took the brunt of the attack, his feathers ruffling as he stumbled backward. The Feisty Five took this as their cue to press on, each attacking from a different angle.

Ace's cards rained down like a storm around Shen, trying to find an opening, while Moray's spear darted through the air, seeking to impale him. Mooch's tail lashed out again, a flurry of shadows and feathers that threatened to overwhelm the peacock. Despite their numbers and determination, Shen remained unfazed.

"Is this all you've got?" He sneered, dodging and weaving through their attacks with an almost taunting grace. His eyes flicked to Starlo, the one who had yet to engage. "Don't tell me you're too scared to join your little friends? Is this really what they expect from the almighty sheriff you claim yourself to be?"

Starlo's cheeks flushed slightly, his grip tightening on the gun. But he remained calm, his eyes never leaving Shen.

"I am not scared, Shen," Starlo replied, his voice cool and steady. "But I am cautious. We're here to stop you, not to become the monsters you seem to admire."

With that, Starlo pulled the trigger. A harmless, plastic dart shoots out of the head of the revolver and hits Shen's stomach, bouncing off. The battle comes to a pause, the silence palpable that a pin dropping can be heard.

Shen raises an eyebrow as he stares back at Starlo.

"...Y-You're serious. I-It actually IS a toy?" Shen's smug expression morphed into one of utter bewilderment as he stared at the plastic dart lodged in his feathers.

"I forgot I still had it on me. Well, thanks for making me look cool," Starlo quipped, his voice laced with sarcasm. The smirk returns to Shen's face, his talon pulling out his gun.

"Allow me to show you how it's actually done," Shen said with a smug smirk, raising his gun to the sky.

POP!

The pellet raises up to the sky, and when it reaches the peak, it explodes into a pretty show of dazzling crimson lights, leaving a trail of sparks in its wake. But the sparks didn't go away. It looked like they were... heading back down to them?

...

A few seconds later, the Feisty Five realized the sparks ARE heading back down. Panic sets in as the group disperses, trying to dodge the falling debris. The once tranquil cherry blossom field turns into a battlefield, the air filled with the smell of burning feathers and the sound of clanging metal as the sparks hit the ground, igniting small fires that spread quickly.

The sparks result in small explosions as they hit the ground, the crimson lights reflecting off the peacock's feathers as he laughs maniacally.

"You see, I've made some... 'modifications' to this gun," Shen said with a chuckle, his eyes glinting maliciously as he reloaded it with a fresh round of firework ammo. "And I've got plenty more where that came from."

The Feisty Five looked around in horror as the flaming debris fell around them. The beauty of the cherry blossom field was marred by the sudden destruction, and the smell of burning feathers filled their nostrils.

Shen aims at the sky again, shooting more into the sky, creating a beautiful, yet terrifying display of his power. The crimson lights twirl and dance, painting the night with a macabre ballet of fire and destruction.

"Guys, we have to get out of here!" Moray yelled over the chaos, their eyes wide with alarm as the explosive sparks grew closer.

The Feisty Five scattered, each trying to find cover as the sky above them rained down hell. Ed dove behind a large pillar, his skin singeing as a stray spark brushed against his arm. Ace rolled into a somersault, his cards spinning around him like a protective barrier. Mooch's tail became a blur as she zipped from tree to tree, narrowly avoiding the fiery onslaught.

Starlo hovered in place, his eyes scanning the area. He wanted to stop Shen to bring back peace sooner than later, but Shen showed no signs of relenting.

"We don't have a choice, we have to retreat! Regroup and think of a better strategy!" Starlo shouted over the din of explosions and crackling fire. The Feisty Five nodded in agreement, each one using their unique skills to evade the raining sparks. They sprinted away from the chaotic scene, their hearts pounding in their chests.

The five of them managed to break through the hailstorm of fireworks, their hearts racing as they sprinted away from the battleground. They had to regroup, to come up with a plan that didn't involve charging into the jaws of death.

As the smoke cleared up slightly, Shen gazes forward and noticed the figures disappearing into the horizon.

"Clever, but you won't get far," Shen reminded, his eyes glowing with malicious intent. "This is only the beginning."

The Five didn't look back, pushing their legs to carry them faster. The ground trembled with each explosion, the fiery rain growing denser. They didn't dare to slow down, even when the smoke thickened around them, making it hard to breathe. 

a few hours later...

"What would you like to wear tomorrow, honey?" Ceroba asked as she rummages through the bedroom closet. "Solomon and Crestina are paying a visit, and bringing food, too. I'll help you up and we can all enjoy a picnic on the front porch. How's that sound?"

She has been planning for a nice little family get-together with Starlo and his parents once he comes back from their current plan. Chujin, however, wasn't feeling so good.

He was lying down on his side of the bed, sweating profusely as a wet towel was draped over his forehead. His goggles were lying on the table, the purple parts of his fur are a pale white, and his weakened state was only getting worse by the second.

"Ceroba," Chujin choked out.

"...Yes?" Ceroba asked, her expression shifting to one of concern.

"I don't... heh... this is all so pitiful," Chujin said, his voice strained as he leans over, holding onto the edge of the bed for support.

"Hey... don't say that," Ceroba says as she kneels by his side. "We don't need to have anyone over. It could just be us."

"A picnic sounds lovely," Chujin managed to say with a weak smile, though his eyes were filled with a desperate plea. "I want you and Kanako to have one, surrounded by your closest friends."

"What are you saying?" Ceroba's eyes widened with concern, her paws reaching out to gently touch Chujin's forehead. His skin felt hot to the touch, and she could see the pain etched into his features.

"I... gosh," Chujin murmured, "I was never afraid of it all my life, but now that it's so close..."

"No," Ceroba interrupted as she lowers her head. "Shut up. Stop it. Say it like it is or don't say anything. I can't do this. Not now."

"I'm sorry," Chujin whispered, his eyes meeting hers with a heavy weight. "There's something I must tell you. My work... we never talked about it much, did we?"

Ceroba's heart sank as she took in her husband's frail state. She knew he'd been working tirelessly in his workshop, but she never imagined it was related to something deeper.

"We didn't," Ceroba confirmed.

"When I built this house, I installed a basement," Chujin continued, his voice barely above a whisper.

"...What?" Ceroba's eyes searched Chujin's, her mind racing.

"The entrance is under the kotatsu. Always has been," Chujin said, his voice fading. "There, I worked towards a project. Something much bigger than myself. Bigger than all of us."

Ceroba's eyes widened in shock. A basement? Chujin had never mentioned a basement before. Her mind raced with questions, but she knew now was not the time for them. She had to focus on her husband's immediate needs.

"I don't understand..." Ceroba whispered, her eyes brimming with tears. "Why didn't you tell me-?"

"I recorded a message for you," Chujin gently cut her off. "When I'm gone, I would like you to view it. Will you do that for me?"

Ceroba nodded, her throat tight with emotion.

"I will," She replied. "I promise you, I will."

Chujin gazed at Ceroba's face, his eyes filled with love and regret.

"I haven't seen tears from you since we met at the crossing," Chujin said, his voice filled with a mix of fondness and pain.

"I save them for the moments that matter," Ceroba managed to say through her clenched teeth, fighting back the sob that threatened to break free.

"I'm glad... because this moment matters a lot to me," Chujin's smile was weak but genuine.

Ceroba reached out and grasped Chujin's hand, squeezing it tightly. Her heart felt as though it was being crushed in a vice, and she freely let the tears flow. Chujin mustered his weak smile further, his eyes closing briefly before opening again with a newfound determination.

"Ceroba," he began, his voice a little stronger, "I need you to promise me something."

"Anything," she replied, her voice thick with emotion.

"You must protect monsterkind," Chujin's eyes searched hers, his grip tightening around her hand. "No matter the cost, you must ensure that our people are safe from Shen's wrath. He's more dangerous than any of us could have ever imagined. Protect our home. Protect Kanako. Protect the entire Underground. My promise for you in the basement... it'll explain everything."

Ceroba nodded, her heart heavy with the weight of his words. She knew what he was asking of her, and she'd do whatever it took to ensure their world remained free from Shen's tyranny.

As the two adults were talking it was revealed that Kanako was listening outside the door, peeking in with the door slightly ajar. Her eyes widened at her father's words, and she could feel the fear creeping up her spine again, but this time it was tinged with something new: resolve. She couldn't let Shen hurt anyone else, especially not her family.

Ceroba leaned in closer to Chujin, whispering fiercely.

"I will do everything in my power to stop him," Ceroba finalized, her voice a mix of promise and grief. She watched as Chujin's grip loosened, his strength waning.

With a deep sigh, Chujin closed his eyes, a hint of peace finally crossing his features.

"Thank you," he murmured before falling into a deep, uneasy sleep.

Ceroba sniffles. She doesn't know how much longer Chujin will remain here before he turns to dust, since that's what happens to monsters when they die. But she keeps her promise, stroking his hand gently.

His legacy... she will fulfill it. She will stop Shen and ensure the safety of the Underground. Give monsterkind a new sense of hope.

Chapter Text

another week passes by...

Since the last week has passed by, Starlo warned the residents of the Dunes about a now-dangerous spot in New Home. And since the Dunes residents didn't know much about Lord Shen compared to the Snowdin residents, Starlo kept the description low and reminded them not to go there because of "explosive properties."

A day after Starlo's warning, Chujin passed away peacefully in his sleep. When Ceroba came to check on him, he was gone, but she saw the particles of dust, and she heartbreakingly knew that her husband is officially gone. When she told Kanako, the little one nodded solemnly in an attempt to be strong. But when the little girl was alone, Ceroba could witness the sadness in her eyes whenever she checks up on her.

Remembering Chujin's promise, while she sent Kanako to the Dunes' playground so she can play with her friends, Ceroba found the secret basement and saw all of Chujin's experiments that he had hid from her. New models for Axis, blueprints, but most importantly... a blue human SOUL and numerous videotapes.

Ceroba started with the videotapes. She sat through every single one, one where Chujin talked about the Snowdin attack, one about his knowledge on the human SOUL, and the final one where he admitted he experimented on himself and sent his final message to Ceroba.

Ceroba knew she had to finish Chujin's work. She wasn't good with technology or any other type of thing he would otherwise excel in. But she went ahead to experiment with the human SOUL, trying to extract some of its elements and make the serum "pure."

She also asked around the Dunes if anyone knows about any Boss Monster willing to help her with the work, but no one has found anyone. Boss Monsters were hard to find nowadays. Well, Ceroba could ask Asgore since he's a Boss Monster, but she knows he's too busy with his own issues to help with this. Plus, she's not ready to explain to him or anyone else about her personal situation. Not even wanting to bring up Chujin's name to him.

But she didn't forget about her important short-term goal right now: stopping Shen. She was glad to hear that Starlo and his posse made it out alive, and she hoped they had figured something out. She had to believe that they were on their way back, with a plan to save everyone from Shen's wrath.

present time

Kanako was in the basement, watching the last videotape. She was saddened when hearing about that a Boss Monster cannot age unless they produce offspring, and she found out all the work Chujin was going through.

"Our little girl... Kanako... she needs to live a happy life, unaffected by my endeavors," Chujin's voice was heard in the last tape. "That is my final wish."

The screen goes into static before it ends, resulting in a black screen. Kanako sniffles, wiping her tears away. She didn't know what to do with all these emotions. Anger, sadness, confusion.

"Kanako?!" A voice shouted. Kanako turns around, recognizing her mother. In time, Ceroba rushes down the stairs to the basement, her eyes wide with horror.

"What are you doing down here?!" Ceroba exclaimed, rushing towards Kanako. The room was a mess of half-finished inventions and scattered paper, a stark contrast to the meticulously organized space Chujin had left behind.

"Is... is it true?" Kanako's voice trembled as she looked up at Ceroba, her eyes red and puffy from crying.

"...What?" Ceroba asked, her heart racing as she took in the scene before her.

"Am I... different?" Kanako asked, her voice barely a whisper.

"Kanako, I..." Ceroba began, her voice shaking.

"Daddy said he would've lived a long time if I wasn't here," Kanako sobbed, clutching the last remaining tape. "He would still be-"

"No, no!" Ceroba quickly interrupted, her voice filled with emotion as she knelt beside her daughter. "Your father loved you, and he didn't want to put you in any danger. You heard him!"

"His dream," Kanako says, looking around the basement room. "All these books and papers... you've been trying to finish it, haven't you?"

Ceroba was silent for a moment as she glances around the dreary basement before she nodded, her eyes never leaving Kanako's.

"With my limited abilities, yes," Ceroba nodded solemnly, her eyes scanning over the cluttered room. "But it doesn't involve you."

The beige kitsune looks around the room again, pausing for a moment before continuing.

"I've been looking into ways to create the serum without a Boss Monster," she confessed, her voice shaking slightly. "I'll... figure it out. I have to."

Kanako's eyes searched hers, and for the first time, Ceroba saw something other than fear and confusion in them - she saw determination. Kanako glances down, reaching into the pocket of her pants.

"But... I found this in the trash," Kanako says as she held up a small vial.

Ceroba gasped as she saw it. It was one of the vials she made for the serum, filled with a faint blue liquid that swirled gently in the dim light of the basement. It was a failed attempt, she had thought it was useless and threw it away in despair.

"You figured it out. Last week," Kanako said with a small smile, her voice filled with hope.

"I..." Ceroba wasn't sure what to say. The vial looked innocent enough in her daughter's tiny paws, but it was a symbol of her failure, a painful reminder of what she had lost. But in the light of Chujin's dying wish and the looming shadow of Lord Shen, she knew she had to be strong.

"'Using the leftover ex... extract from the human's SOUL...'" Kanako read a small lettering by the vial. "'I believe I have removed any corruption it held.'"

"...Negating the need for someone pure of heart... yes," Ceroba murmured, taking the vial from Kanako's trembling paws. She examined it closely, her eyes scanning the contents for any signs of imperfection. Could it be? Had she discovered a way to purify the human soul without the need for a Boss Monster's sacrifice?

"So you did it! Daddy's wish could come true, right?" Kanako looked up at her mother, hope shining in her eyes. "We could make him smile! Make him proud of us!"

"But... he didn't want you to be a part of this, and I agree," Ceroba says, placing the vial down gently on the table.

"Let me do it!" Kanako insisted, her voice filled with newfound resolve. "I want to make things right. Be useful for once. And I trust you to keep me safe!"

"I... I do believe that the refined method could work," Ceroba said, her voice wavering with uncertainty. "I just-"

"Please," Kanako begged, her eyes brimming with hope. "You promised you would make his dream come true."

"I did..." Ceroba whispers, her eyes welling up with tears.

She thought about this for a moment. The risk was high, but so was the reward. If this worked, it could change everything. Monsters can have hope. Chujin will be proud. And, if Kanako is willing to help, then defeating Shen might just be within their grasp. It could help protect her daughter from the fate she feared the most: the loss of her innocence to despair than it already has.

"Very well," Ceroba said after a long silence, her voice trembling slightly. "But I'll make it quick. I'll ensure your safety throughout the procedure, alright?"

"Mm-hmm!" Kanako nodded eagerly. Ceroba took a deep breath, her paws shaking slightly as she carefully set up the makeshift lab. The air was thick with tension and hope as they both knew the importance of what they were about to do.

"We'll be the heroes of the Underground! All thanks to you and Daddy!" Kanako exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement. Ceroba couldn't help but smile back at her daughter's enthusiasm, despite the knot in her stomach.

"Heroes, huh? That has a nice ring to it," Ceroba said, her voice tinged with a bit of sadness, but also determination. "Okay, wait here."

Kanako nodded as Ceroba went over to the workbench and picked up an empty syringe. Her eyes were focused and steady, the gravity of the situation not lost on her. Ceroba carefully filled the syringe with the blue liquid from the vial, her movements precise and deliberate. She knew that one mistake could cost them everything.

"You will need to stand very still for this," Ceroba reminded her daughter as she finishes connecting the syringe to the vial. "Close your eyes and I will begin the fusion-extraction."

The beige kitsune picks up the syringe and approaches her daughter. Despite her fears, she knew that this was the right choice for her family and their world. The room seems to hold its breath as Ceroba prepares to inject the serum extract into her daughter.

"You may feel a pinch or two, but it'll all be over before you know it. Understood?" Ceroba asked, trying to keep her voice calm and steady for Kanako's sake.

"Understood!" Kanako nodded bravely, her eyes squeezed shut. Ceroba kneels down, feeling her heart beat faster.

"You truly believe in this, don't you?" she asked her daughter, her voice filled with a mix of admiration and fear.

"Yeah," Kanako's voice was firm despite the tremble in it. "For Daddy, and for everyone else in the Underground."

Before Ceroba begins, Kanako goes up to her mother and hugs her. Ceroba lets out a shaky sigh as she wraps her arms around the little kitsune.

"Love you lots," Ceroba whispered into Kanako's fur, and Ceroba felt her own eyes sting with unshed tears.

"Love you more," Kanako replied, squeezing back with all the strength she had.

After a few more seconds, Kanako pulls away from the embrace, her resolve unwavering. Ceroba nods solemnly, then prepares the syringe for the delicate process. Kanako brings her shoulder closer and closes her eyes tightly, bracing herself for the pain she's convinced she'll feel.

Ceroba brings the needle to Kanako's shoulder, her hand shaking slightly. She takes a deep breath and inserts it into the fur, pushing the plunger slowly. The serum hisses as it enters the young kitsune's body.

Inside, Kanako's SOUL glows blue for a second, since the extraction is made from the human with a blue SOUL, before turning back to normal. Kanako's eyes shut a little tighter as she felt something flow into her veins. It was cold, and it burned a bit, but she didn't make a sound. She felt the weight of her mother's love and determination, and she knew that she could handle it.

Ceroba stood up as the extraction ends, and Kanako opens her eyes. The young kitsune looks at her mother with a mix of excitement and anticipation. The room was silent except for the sound of their breathing. Ceroba's eyes searched her daughter's for any signs of change, any indication that the serum had worked.

After a few seconds, nothing has happened. Ceroba brings the serum back to the workbench and separates the syringe from the vial, placing it aside.

Suddenly, Kanako cries out in pain as she clutches her stomach. Ceroba whips her head back at her daughter, her eyes shrunken in horror. Inside Kanako's SOUL, it cracks a bit, but doesn't shatter into pieces. It just remains in that state.

"NO!!!" Ceroba screams, dropping the syringe in horror as she rushes to Kanako's side, her heart racing. Kanako then passes out, but Ceroba manages to catch her daughter before she fell to the ground.

"No no no no no no- why didn't it work?!" Ceroba's voice echoes through the basement, filled with a mix of horror and desperation as she cradles her unconscious daughter. The room spun around her, the cluttered mess of experiments and notes blurring into a haze of despair.

Her mind raced through the steps she had taken, trying to find where she had gone wrong. Had she misinterpreted Chujin's research? Had she rushed the process? Ceroba felt like she was drowning in regret, her heart pounding in her chest as she held onto the limp form of her daughter.

"Kanako, wake up! Wake up right now!" Ceroba pleaded, her voice echoing through the basement. "Mommy's here, come on! Hey!"

But Kanako remained unconscious, her breathing shallow and uneven. Panic surged through Ceroba as she realized the gravity of the situation. The thought was too much to bear.

"What... what have I done?" Ceroba whispered to herself, her eyes brimming with tears.

The reality of the situation hit her like a ton of bricks. She lost her husband, and she potentially just killed her daughter. Ceroba's mind raced as she clutched Kanako tightly, her thoughts swirling in a tornado of despair and regret. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for anything that could save her. The syringe laid on the ground, useless. The vial of serum, a grim reminder of her failure.

Ceroba knew that she had to get help, and fast. But who could she turn to? Asgore was too busy with his own troubles, and she didn't want to burden Starlo with this. Suddenly, her mind sparked with an idea.

She scampers to the workbench, opening a drawer and rummaging through it, her paws shaking. Finally, she pulls it out. A piece of paper Chujin received from the Steamworks regarding one of their collaborations with the Lab in Hotland. It read:

Dear citizens of the Underground:

We are calling for fallen down monsters to be sent to Hotland for important scientific research.

Should you choose to participate, your loved ones will be treated with the utmost respect, their condition heavily monitored, and you regularly notified of their status.

This is a chance for tragedy to turn into opportunity. For monsterkind to finally see the light of the Surface thanks to its citizens' invaluable bravery and sacrifice.

For your consideration, Royal Science Division

Ceroba knew what she had to do. Her daughter had not turn to dust yet, which means she had a chance. With trembling paws, she gently picks up Kanako and carries her up the stairs, her heart aching with every step. She couldn't let the hope die in her daughter's eyes. Not like she did with Chujin.

The trip to Hotland was going to be an agonizing one, but Ceroba knew she didn't have a choice. She had to save her daughter. With every step she took, the weight of her decision grew heavier, but she pushed forward. The paper from the Steamworks was her last hope, a thread of light in the dark tunnel of despair.

Upon arriving at the Lab, the heat of Hotland washed over her, which was much more brutal compared to the Dunes she's used to. Ceroba's heart was racing as she approached the imposing doors of the Lab, clutching the unconscious Kanako in her arms. The sound of machinery and the smell of hot metal filled the air, a stark contrast to the quiet desperation of their home.

As she stumbled through the doors, Ceroba was met with the hum of machinery and the sight of a stacks of papers littered around the desk. There, the Royal Scientist herself let out a noise of surprise, her glasses slightly askew before she adjusted them.

"E-Eh?!" she was caught off guard by Ceroba's sudden appearance. The yellow lizard looked up, her expression shifting from shock to concern as she took in the sight of the distraught mother holding the lifeless form of her daughter.

"Doctor Alphys! I need help!" Ceroba's voice was frantic as she burst into the Hotland laboratory. The room was a mess of beakers, wires, and mechanical contraptions, but the scientist's eyes immediately zeroed in on the lifeless form of Kanako in her arms.

"Wh-What happened?!" Alphys exclaimed, rushing to Ceroba's side, her eyes wide with worry.

"Never mind that, it's not important right now!" Ceroba snapped, her panic palpable. "Kanako has fallen down and I don't know how much time she has left!"

Alphys's eyes went wide with horror as she took in the scene. She had heard of such things happening, but never had she seen it firsthand. Her mind raced as she took the young kitsune from Ceroba's trembling paws, her heart racing as she searched for any signs of life.

"O-Oh my god," Alphys stuttered, her eyes scanning over Kanako's unconscious form. "Y-You need to put her on the table, r-right now!"

Ceroba nodded, her eyes never leaving her daughter's still face as she placed her gently on the cold metal surface. The doctor's heart was racing as she fumbled with the equipment around her, her mind racing through her medical knowledge.

"Is she... is she going to be okay?" Ceroba's voice was barely above a whisper, hope clinging to every syllable.

"I-I'll do everything I can," Alphys assured her, though the tremor in her voice didn't quite match her words. She quickly began to check Kanako's vitals, her eyes darting over the various monitors and screens. "But I need to know what happened. Was she in an accident?"

Ceroba took a deep breath, trying to compose herself.

"It... it's nothing important," Ceroba lied, her voice shaking.

"Fascinating... her-her SOUL... it's... it's..." Alphys's voice trailed off as she examined the readings on her instruments, her eyes darting back and forth over the monitors. Ceroba's heart stopped as she waited for the doctor's verdict.

"Yes, she's... a Boss Monster," Ceroba confirmed, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I didn't come here for you to experiment on her!"

With no hesitation, Ceroba slams the paper down on the desk, startling the fidgety yellow lizard doctor again.

"You mentioned the program will bring fallen monsters back before they turn to dust and die," Ceroba spoke rapidly, her eyes pleading. "I want my daughter to be a part of it! Just do whatever you can! I want her BACK!"

Alphys swallowed hard, looking from the paper to Kanako and then back again. She knew the risks, the ethical implications, but she also knew the desperation of a mother's love.

"I understand," she said finally, her voice firm. "I will do what I can. But you must understand, the program is still in its experimental stages. There are no guarantees."

Ceroba's grip tightened on the edge of the table, her eyes never leaving her daughter's still form.

"I know," she whispered. "But you have to try. She's all I have left."

Alphys nodded solemnly, her expression a mix of determination and sadness. She knew the weight of the decision that had been placed before her. It was a dangerous gamble, but she couldn't turn her back on a fellow monster in need.

"Alright," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "I-I'll start running some diagnostics and bring her with the other patients. You, uh... you can leave for now. I promise I will keep you updated on her progress."

Ceroba nodded, unable to form words. Before she left the lab, she turned her head one last time to see Alphys pick up Kanako, her eyes filled with a mix of hope and dread. As the doctor disappeared with her daughter, the weight of her decision settled heavily upon her. She didn't know if she had just signed her daughter's death warrant or gave her a second chance at life.

But that didn't matter. If Kanako still has her physical form, Alphys can save her. She has to. Ceroba paced the room, her thoughts racing like the gears in Chujin's inventions. How did it come to this? Her mind replayed the events that led to this moment: the discovery of the basement, the hope in Kanako's eyes, the promise she had made to her daughter. It was all too much to bear.

With her head lowered, Ceroba leaves the lab and trudges back to the Dunes, her thoughts consumed by doubt and fear. The journey feels endless, the once familiar path now a labyrinth of regret. Every step she takes feels heavier than the last, as if the weight of her failure is a physical burden she must carry with her.

As she enters the quiet Dunes, the residents look up at her with concern etched on their faces. They know something is wrong, but she doesn't have the words to explain. She makes her way to the saloon, the central hub of the Wild East, and slumps onto a chair. The conversations hush as the patrons notice her distress, and soon she's surrounded by friends and neighbors offering comfort and words of encouragement.

Dina notices Ceroba's unusual demeanor and raises an eyebrow.

"Ceroba? What's wrong?" Dina asked, her voice filled with genuine concern as she placed a comforting hand on Ceroba's shoulder. The kitsune looked up, her eyes red and swollen from crying.

"Three shots," she told the bartender, her voice cracking. "And make them strong."

"Wha-... three?" Dina stuttered, clearly surprised by Ceroba's request. "Are you sure about this?"

"I'm not feeling in the right state of mind," Ceroba replied, her voice barely audible. "Three shots."

Dina's gaze was filled with concern as she poured the drinks. She knew Ceroba wasn't one to indulge in such a manner, but the pain in her eyes was too great to argue. The patrons of the saloon gave her a respectful silence, their curiosity about her condition palpable but unspoken.

"Here you go," Dina said gently, sliding the three shots across the bar. The glasses were filled with a strong, amber liquid in front of Ceroba. The whiskey was the strongest in the Underground, known for its ability to warm the SOUL and dull the pain. The smell was potent, but Ceroba didn't flinch.

With a trembling hand, she picked up the first shot and downed it in one swift motion. The burn was immediate, searing down her throat and into her stomach. It brought tears to her eyes, but it was a welcome distraction from the anguish in her heart. The second shot followed quickly, the room spinning slightly around her.

The patrons of the saloon watched her, their expressions a mix of concern and curiosity. The atmosphere grew thick with unspoken questions, but no one dared to ask. They knew Ceroba was a strong monster, capable of handling her own battles, but the sight of her in such distress was unsettling.

Ceroba picked up the third glass, her eyes glazed over with unshed tears.

"To Chujin," Ceroba murmured, raising the glass in a silent toast to the love of her life. "To the future we never had."

With that, she downed the third shot, the fire spreading through her chest, the warmth seeping into her veins. The room spun faster, the faces of the patrons becoming a blur. The whiskey was working its magic, but it couldn't dull the ache in her heart. She slammed the empty glass on the counter, the sound echoing through the saloon.

The room was quiet now, the conversations having died down to hushed whispers as everyone stared at the once-proud kitsune, now a picture of despair. Ceroba felt their eyes on her, but she didn't care. All she cared about was her daughter, lying unconscious in a lab far away, her SOUL hanging by a thread because of a gamble that had gone horribly wrong.

The whiskey did little to warm her, the coldness of her fear seeping into every pore. The weight of her failure pressing down on her like a boulder. Ceroba knew she couldn't stay here, not like this. Not when her daughter's life hung in the balance. She pushed herself off the chair, the room spinning slightly, and stumbled out of the saloon into the cold embrace of the night.

The whiskey had clouded her vision, making the world swirl around her, but she had to keep moving.

"Hic! HIC!" Ceroba hiccuped, her legs wobbling as she staggered out of the saloon. The cool night air did little to sober her up, but she needed the solitude. The whiskey had given her a temporary reprieve from her thoughts, but the moment she stepped into the moonlit dunes, reality came crashing back.

The quiet whispers of the desert winds seemed to echo her own despair. She stumbled through the sand, each step a battle against the weight of her grief. Her mind was a tumultuous storm of doubt and regret, the whiskey doing little to calm the tempest.

The night was a canvas of stars, their twinkling indifference mocking the turmoil within her. She staggered through the desert, her mind a tumultuous storm of doubt and determination. The whiskey had not brought her peace, but it had brought clarity to one thing:

Lord Shen.

That malicious peacock. He was the catalyst for Kanako's fall and the chaos in her life. If it weren't for him, Kanako wouldn't have been so scared. If it weren't for him, she wouldn't have had to make that terrible choice to inject her daughter with a serum prototype.

If it weren't for him... Kanako would still be by her side. Ceroba's eyes narrowed with a newfound resolve, the whiskey-induced haze parting like a curtain. Shen had to be stopped.

She had to find him. Ceroba's thoughts grew clearer as she stumbled through the Dunes, her vision slowly steadying. The cold, hard sand crunched under her paws with each step, the sound a grim reminder of the harsh reality she faced. Her mind raced with possibilities, each more dire than the last. What kind of monster would use a child's fear to fuel his power? A monster she had to stop.

The fact that Kanako was traumatized from him, and she still thought about it when Ceroba used the serum to protect her, it was something Ceroba could not shake off. She knew she had to find Shen and end this before he could hurt anyone else she cared about.

"That cursed peacock!" Ceroba spat into the night, her voice carrying over the desert. "I'll find you, Shen, and I'll make you pay for what you've done! I'll show you what it means to mess with a mother's love!"

Her voice was raw with emotion. The sound of her own voice seemed to cut through the fog in her mind, giving her a renewed sense of purpose. She would not let Shen's maliciousness consume her.

The whiskey's warmth began to wear off, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. Ceroba's thoughts grew colder, more focused. She had to find Shen and make him answer for his actions. There was one person she knew would know more about Shen's whereabouts. Someone who had faced the peacock before and lived to tell the tale.

Ceroba staggered over to the residential area, the whiskey's warmth doing little to dispel the cold dread in her heart. She knocked on the door to Starlo's house, her paws heavy with the weight of her decision.

As if on cue, Starlo answers the door, his eyes immediately widening at the sight of Ceroba's disheveled state.

"Ceroba, what's happened?" he asks, his voice filled with alarm. "You look all... flustered."

"I'm... I'm fine," Ceroba slurred, though the tremble in her voice told a different story.

"Those drinks at the saloon hit you too hard?" Starlo questioned with concern, his gaze flickering over her.

"No, I had enough," Ceroba replied, pushing herself up straighter. "But I need your help, Starlo."

The sheriff looked at her with a mix of confusion and concern, his usual playful demeanor replaced by something more serious.

"What do you mean?" he asked, his eyes searching hers for an answer.

Ceroba took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts.

"Where is Shen?" Ceroba demanded, her eyes blazing with a newfound determination. "You've faced him before. Tell me where he is!"

Starlo's expression grew solemn as he raises an eyebrow.

"You're... You're not going to confront him, are you?" Starlo's voice was filled with worry, his eyes scanning Ceroba's determined face. He knew her history with the peacock, and the danger Lord Shen posed to all of them.

"Yes, I am! Where the hell is Shen?!" Ceroba's voice grew sharp with desperation. She knew Starlo had encountered Lord Shen before, and she wasn't about to let him dodge the question.

Starlo calms down by taking a deep breath. He knew better than to argue with Ceroba when she was like this.

"Okay, okay," he says, raising his hands in a placating gesture. "As you already know, he's taken base in New Home, far from the king's castle. It's by a temple with cherry blossom trees."

Ceroba nods, the information burning into her memory like a brand.

"Thank you, Starlo," she says, her voice tight with emotion. "I'll handle this."

"Wait, Ceroba, you're in no condition to go anywhere," Starlo protested, his eyes widening with concern. "You're hurt, and you've had too much to drink."

"I'm not gonna sit by and do nothing," Ceroba growled, slurring her words slightly. "He's dangerous. He's gotta be stopped."

Starlo looked at her, his expression torn between his desire to support her and his worry for her safety.

"Ceroba, you're not yourself right now," Starlo insisted, his voice laced with concern as he stepped out of his house. The chilly air of the Dunes bit at her fur, but she didn't flinch.

"I've never been more myself," Ceroba replied, her words slurred but her eyes sharp with resolve. "I can't let him harm anyone else. Not after what he did to my family. He caused my husband so much stress, he made my daughter afraid of her own shadow, and now... now she's in a coma because of his influence!"

The words hung heavy in the air, the gravity of the situation settling on Starlo's shoulders. He knew the pain of loss, the anger that burned in the wake of a loved one's suffering.

"I understand," he said finally, his voice serious. "But you can't do this alone."

"I have to, Star. This is my fight alone. I need to face him," Ceroba said, her voice firm despite the slur. "I'm going to get him, and I'm going to make sure he can never hurt anyone again."

With that, she disappeared into the night, leaving Starlo to stare after her with a heavy heart. He knew the depth of her love for Kanako, and the lengths she would go to protect her. But he also knew the danger she faced, and the toll it would take on her. He hoped she knew what she was doing.

"Ceroba..." Starlo whispered into the night, his words trailing off as she vanished into the shadows. His hand hovered over his holster, his instincts screaming at him to go after her. But he knew she needed to do this alone. With a heavy sigh, he turned back to his house, his mind racing. He had to trust that she would be okay, that she had the strength and the wit to outsmart Lord Shen.

Ceroba, fueled by a mix of rage and despair, decides to stop by her the estate first. The first thing she does is head to the bathroom to splash cold water on her face, hoping to sober up a bit. The mirror reflects a monster she barely recognizes: her fur is ruffled, her eyes are bloodshot, and there's a wild look in them that she hasn't seen in a long time.

She takes a deep breath and pulls herself together. The whiskey had given her the courage to face her fears, but she couldn't let it control her. She had to be clear-headed for what was to come.

Ceroba looks into her own eyes, seeing the reflection of Chujin and Kanako's love within them. She lets out a soft sigh and places her paw on the mirror, the coldness of the glass grounding her. She knew that she had to be the one to face Shen, not just for herself but for her family. Her thoughts swirl like the whiskey in her stomach, a mix of anger, fear, and determination.

With a newfound resolve, she turns away from the reflection and pads out of the bathroom, her mind made up. Storming off to her bedroom, she grabs hold of her staff with the red ribbon, the same one she used to fight Shen the last time.

The room feels eerily quiet, as if the very walls are holding their breath, anticipating the wrath that is about to be unleashed. Ceroba's eyes narrow as she imagines the peacock's smug grin, the sound of his laughter as he taunted her about her dead family. She knows that if Shen knew her family was dead, he would use that against her in a heartbeat.

With a snarl, she marches upstairs to Kanako's room, her heart heavy with the weight of her decision. The room is dark, but the soft glow of the night-light casts an eerie shadow on the walls. She can still hear her daughter's laughter echoing in the silence, a stark contrast to the emptiness that now fills the space.

Ceroba glances over at the nightstand and notices a white kitsune mask with pink eye markings. It was the mask that Kanako made for her, a symbol of their unity and protection. Tears well up in her eyes as she gently picks it up. It had been so long since she had worn it.

She lets out a heart-crushing sob as she hugs the mask to her chest. It smells faintly of Kanako's scent, a scent of innocence and warmth that seemed so far away now. With trembling paws, she places it on her face, the fabric feeling cold and foreign against her skin. It's a stark reminder of what she's fighting for, the love she has for her daughter, and the hope she's trying so desperately to hold onto.

She takes a deep breath and feels a sense of peace wash over her, as if Chujin's spirit was giving her his strength. With renewed resolve, she heads downstairs and exits her house into the night. The cool desert air is a stark contrast to the heat of her rage.

She still needs to finish Chujin's legacy. Find a pure human soul and give a new hope to monsterkind. To start, she needs to find Shen and end his tyranny once and for all. With the mask securely on, she heads to New Home, where she suspects he's been hiding based on Starlo's words.

Chapter Text

Ceroba's thoughts were a tumultuous storm. The whiskey had worn off, but the anger remained, a constant companion to the fear that gnawed at her soul. She knew she had to be careful. Shen was a crafty adversary, and she couldn't afford to underestimate him again.

As she approached New Home, she could feel the tension in the air thickening. The all-gray city felt like a ghost town, filled with nothing but memories and the scent of golden flowers from afar. The silence was eerie, broken only by the distant howl of the wind and the occasional creak of a swinging sign. She tightened her grip on her staff, her heart pounding in her chest like a war drum.

The moon was high and full, casting a silver light on the path ahead. She could see the silhouette of the cherry blossom trees in the distance, their branches swaying gently in the night. The sight brought her a strange sense of peace amidst the chaos in her mind. The temple stood at the edge of the city, a foreboding structure that seemed to beckon to her.

Ceroba's keen senses picked up the faint scent of gunpowder, mixed with the sweet aroma of the cherry blossoms. Her eyes narrowed, her instincts sharpened by years of experience and the pain that had fueled her journey to this very moment. She knew that scent all too well; it was the signature of Lord Shen's destructive power.

As she drew closer to the temple, she saw flickers of light dancing through the windows. The sound of feverish laughter pierced the night, sending chills down her spine. She had to be prepared for anything, she told herself. For Shen was a master of manipulation and chaos.

Ceroba then gazes upon nearby boxes scattered by the temple. Made of the same material from the barren buildings of New Home. Each of these boxes had tiny holes in them, and the gunpowder scent grew stronger. It was clear that Shen had been busy experimenting again. She approached one and carefully opened it. Inside was a mess of wires and metal, along with a note.

It read, "For those who dare to challenge me," with a scrawling signature that she recognized all too well.

Ceroba's eyes widened in horror. These devices were just like that gun he wields. She knew she had to be careful. She couldn't let Shen get his hands on something so destructive again. She carefully picked up the note and shoved it into her pocket.

The laughter grew louder as she approached the temple, her fur standing on end. She could feel the malicious energy emanating from the building. It was a stark contrast to the serenity she had felt under the cherry blossoms.

With a deep breath, Ceroba pushed open the heavy wooden doors to the temple. Inside, the air was thick with the smell of gunpowder and the flickering light of torches cast dancing shadows across the walls. The room was a mess of discarded fireworks and shattered glass, a testament to Shen's twisted creativity.

Then she saw Shen walking in her direction. In an instant, Ceroba tightens her hold on her staff and swung it around, shooting out a dark pink energy ball from the tip. It flew straight at Shen, but he easily sidestepped it, his feathers fluttering gracefully. He was holding his gun, a twisted grin spreading across his beak.

"Greetings, Ketsukane," Shen said, "We meet again-"

"Save it," Ceroba snarled, her eyes flashing with anger. "I'm not here for your theatrics, Shen. I'm here to stop you."

Shen chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement.

"Ah, always so serious," he said, raising the gun. "But perhaps a little... entertainment will change your tune."

Ceroba swung her staff with all her might, the red ribbon fluttering like a banner of war. Her eyes never left Shen's, filled with a determination that had been forged in the fires of her pain. The peacock prince merely raised his gun, the barrel glinting with the same malevolence that shone in his eyes.

POP!

The shot rang out, echoing through the temple like the toll of a death knell. Ceroba felt the heat of the explosion wash over her, but she remained unscathed. Her reflexes were lightning-quick, and she had anticipated his move. She knew the chaos that would follow, the whirlwind of destruction he would unleash.

Shen's eyes widened in surprise, his beak parting slightly. He had not expected such swiftness from the grieving mother. His grin grew wider, his eyes glinting with a newfound respect.

"Very good," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But I've been practicing some new tricks in this realm."

Shen's gun began to glow a menacing red, and the air around him grew charged with energy. Ceroba felt the hairs on her neck stand on end as she braced herself for the coming onslaught. The room was suddenly alive with the crackle of power, and she knew she was in for a battle unlike any she had ever faced.

Ceroba's eyes narrowed, her ears flattened against her head.

"You'll regret ever crossing paths with me," she hissed, her voice low and menacing.

Shen's laugh echoed through the temple as he took aim. The barrel of his gun was now a crimson red, a stark contrast to the peacock's white feathers.

"We'll see about that," he taunted, and with a flick of his wrist, a barrage of sharp feathers shot towards Ceroba.

Her instincts took over, and she spun her staff, the red ribbon flowing around as she staff collides with the incoming feathers, sending them flying in every direction. The sound of metal clanging against metal filled the room, as the feathers bounced off her weapon and clattered to the floor.

Ceroba knew she had to act fast. Shen was toying with her, and she wouldn't stand for it. With a fierce roar, she charged at him, her staff a blur as she swung it with the fury of a tornado. Each hit sent sparks flying, lighting up the shadowy corners of the room with a brilliant flash of light.

Shen's eyes gleamed with excitement, his feathers fluttering as he danced around her, dodging her blows with an unnerving grace. His gun crackled with power, firing off bursts of red energy that Ceroba barely managed to dodge. The air was thick with the smell of gunpowder and burnt feathers, and the walls of the temple began to tremble with the force of their clash.

Their movements were a blur, a deadly ballet that spoke of years of training and a desperation to win. Ceroba's every strike was fueled by the love for her daughter, the pain of losing Chujin, and the anger at Shen's callous disregard for life. Shen's movements were precise and calculated, his eyes never leaving hers, as if he enjoyed watching the chaos unfold before him.

The fight grew more intense, the sound of clanging metal and the roar of fireworks deafening. Ceroba's mind was a whirlwind of strategy and emotion, trying to anticipate Shen's next move while also keeping her own grief at bay. Her staff met Shen's blades with a ferocity that surprised even herself, each blow aiming for a vital point, seeking to end this nightmare.

Shen, in turn, parried and countered with a grace that seemed almost unnatural. His silky robe fluttered around him, a macabre dance of white and red against the grayscale backdrop of New Home. His gun sang a song of destruction, the darts of fire leaving a trail of scorched earth in their wake.

But Ceroba was not easily deterred. She knew she had to get through to him, to show him that he couldn't just waltz into their lives and cause havoc without facing consequences. Her eyes bore into his, searching for any hint of weakness, any crack in his armor of arrogance.

"Your reign of terror ends tonight, Shen!" Ceroba's voice pierced through the cacophony of clashing steel and exploding fireworks. Her staff swung in a wide arc, the red ribbon trailing behind it like a streak of fury.

Shen's grin grew wider, his eyes alight with the thrill of the fight. He spun his gun around his finger and aimed it at the ceiling.

"You think I care for such trivial matters?" He shouted over the din of their battle. "I have transcended the mortal coil, and yet here I am, playing in the shadows of your little world!"

With a dramatic flourish, Shen fired a volley of fiery pellets into the air. They explode on impact from the temple's ceiling, showering the combatants with dust and debris. Ceroba took the opportunity to leap through the falling rubble, her eyes never leaving Shen's smug form. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she could feel the heat of the fireworks scorching her fur as she closed the distance between them.

The battle raged on, their weapons clashing in a symphony of steel and feathers, the echoes of their fight bouncing off the desolate buildings. Ceroba could feel the weight of her grief and anger propelling her every move, pushing her to fight harder, to fight longer. Yet, for every blow she landed, Shen had a counter, his movements fluid and precise, like a dance of death.

Suddenly, one of the pellets graze the side of her pelvis, and Ceroba winces in pain, stumbling backward. The hit wasn't severe, but it served as a stark reminder that she was not invincible. Ceroba's eyes watered, but she didn't falter. The pain only served to fuel her rage further. She swung her staff in a wild arc, the red ribbon leaving a trail of light as it sliced through the air.

Shen, caught off-guard by her tenacity, took a step back. His smugness faltered for a moment, and Ceroba saw it. His patience was starting to wear thin.

Ceroba took a deep, painful breath, her side burning from the fire. She pushed herself up, her eyes never leaving Shen. The mask felt heavy on her face, but it was a weight she would bear for Kanako, for Chujin, for all those who had suffered at his hands.

"Your games end now," she snarled, her voice low and deadly. She could feel the power building within her, a fiery determination that surged through her veins like liquid fury. The air around her crackled with energy, her eyes glowing with a fierce light.

Shen's grin twisted into a snarl. He had not anticipated this level of resistance from the monster. He raised his gun, aiming it directly at Ceroba's chest.

"Do you have a death wish, Ketsukane?" Shen taunted, his wing hovering over the trigger, the gun pointed steadily at Ceroba's heart.

Ceroba's eyes never left his, and she could see the doubt creeping into his gaze. She took a step forward, her staff held firmly in her paws. She took a moment to catch her breath, her chest heaving.

"This isn't about power," she said, her voice steady despite the pain. "I have nothing left to lose, but I know I'm making the right choice to stand strong. And you," she spat the word like a curse, "you have no right to decide who lives and dies."

Shen's beak tightened, his finger hovering over the trigger.

"You dare to lecture me on the right to power?" he scoffed. "I have seen empires rise and fall, felt the very fabric of reality bend to my will. And yet here you stand, a mere shadow of what you could be! Tell me, Ketsukane, do you truly believe you can defeat me?"

Ceroba felt the warmth of the gunpowder, the echo of past explosions resonating through her SOUL. Her eyes gleamed with a fierce resolve that had not been present since she first found out about the peacock's reign of terror.

"A mother's love is the most powerful force in any realm," Ceroba said, her voice firm despite the pain. "And I will not let you corrupt it with your malice."

Shen's smug expression slipped, his eyes narrowing.

"Love is nothing but a weakness," Shen growled, his voice echoing through the damaged temple. "It's what holds you all back. But I will show you the true power of a being unshackled by such trivial emotions!"

Ceroba's eyes narrowed beneath the mask, her fur bristling with rage.

"You know nothing of love or hope!" she shouted, her voice echoing through the desolate streets. "You're just a coward hiding behind your weapons and your hate!"

Shen's beak curled in fury.

"You dare question me?!" He spat. "I will show you the true meaning of despair!"

Ceroba felt a surge of anger, the pain from her wound forgotten. She lunged at Shen with a fiery passion, her staff a blur as it met his feathered blades. Each clang echoed through the desolate streets of New Home, a battle cry of defiance against the peacock's twisted ideology.

Shen parried with surprising speed, his feathers fluttering around him like a pristine white cloak. His movements were sharp, precise, and filled with a malicious grace that seemed to mock the very concept of emotion. Yet, as the fight progressed, Ceroba could see the flickers of doubt in his eyes.

Ceroba's strikes grew stronger with each passing moment, fueled by the love she held for her daughter and the hope she had for the future of the Underground. Her staff clashed against Shen's gun, sparks flying as metal met metal in a dance of destruction. Despite the pain in her side, she remained focused, her eyes never straying from the peacock's malicious gaze.

Shen's breathing grew heavy, his movements slightly less fluid than before. Ceroba could see the exertion on his face, the beads of sweat forming on his head, trailing to the top of his beak. Yet his eyes remained sharp, his mind ever-calculating. He knew he had to end this, to prove his dominance once and for all.

With a squawk of rage, Shen charged at Ceroba, his lance a smoky gray streak in the moonlit night. Ceroba met him with an equal ferocity, her staff a whirlwind of red ribbon and gleaming metal. The two collided, the force of their impact shaking the very ground beneath their feet. The air was thick with the scent of burnt feathers and the metallic tang of blood.

For what felt like an eternity, they remained locked in combat, neither giving an inch. The once-desolate streets of New Home had become a battleground of light and shadow, their movements a symphony of destruction and protection. The echoes of their clashes resonated through the abandoned place, a stark reminder of the war that once ravaged these lands.

Ceroba's mind raced as she parried and struck, each movement a silent declaration of her love and her will to protect. She saw in Shen's eyes a reflection of her own pain, a mirror to the scars that marred her soul. But where she sought to shield, he sought to destroy.

Shen's gun shot a flurry of explosive pellets, each one a dart of fiery death. Ceroba danced through the storm, her staff spinning a crimson web to deflect the onslaught. The air was alive with the sound of clashing steel and the hiss of burning feathers, a symphony of fury that seemed to resonate with the very fabric of the Underground.

Her movements grew more desperate as the pain in her side grew. She knew she couldn't keep this up much longer, but she refused to let Shen win. Shen's blade sliced through the air, aiming for her heart, but Ceroba was ready.

With a swift twirl of her staff, she redirected the blow, sending the feathered blade shattering against the cobblestone street. She didn't miss the flicker of surprise in his gaze, the brief acknowledgment that she was not to be underestimated. Her eyes never left his, even as she felt the warm trickle of blood seeping from her side. The pain was a constant companion, but it fueled her rather than weakened her.

"How many times do I have to keep shooting until I kill you?!" Shen's eyes were wild, his breaths coming in heavy gasps as he reloaded his gun, the crimson energy of his ammo glowing eerily in the moonlit night.

Ceroba's eyes remained focused, her breaths shallow and quick. Her staff, now singed and scarred from the battle, was the only thing keeping her standing. She felt the warmth of the blood seeping through her kimono, but she pushed the pain aside.

"As many times as it takes," she replied, her voice steady. "For every time you shoot, I will stand again. For every explosion you cause, I will rebuild. Your power is meaningless before the strength of love and hope."

Shen's eyes narrowed, his feathers ruffling in frustration. He knew he had underestimated Ceroba. Her spirit was unyielding, her will unbroken. But he had faced such determination before and knew how to crush it.

This can be seen as Ceroba gently caresses the side of her mask.

"Kanako... this whole time, I've been fighting for you," Ceroba murmured, her mind racing as she blocked another volley of fiery feathers.

"Your daughter's decision to stop me in Snowdin was admirable," Shen sneered, his eyes flashing with a dangerous light. "But she is just a child! What makes you think you can fare any better?!"

Ceroba grew furious at the mention of her daughter out of this peacock's mouth. Her eyes burned with a fiery resolve as she lunged at Shen again, her staff a blur of hot pink in the night. She could feel the power of the mask pulsing through her veins, giving her strength beyond her usual limits. The two locked eyes, their breaths misting in the cold air as they circled each other, looking for an opening.

"YOU DO NOT SPEAK ABOUT HER!!" Ceroba's roar was deafening, her eyes flashing with the fury of a thousand suns. In that moment, she didn't see the cunning peacock before her; she saw the monster that had brought fear to her daughter's eyes. "You didn't want to spare her life, so I'll eat shit before I let you ruin hers any further!"

The peacock prince took a step back, his grin fading for a moment, surprised by the raw power of Ceroba's love. He had underestimated the depth of her emotions, the unbreakable bond between a mother and her daughter. It was something he had never truly experienced, something he had always found to be a weakness in his enemies: countering his own feeling of withdrawal with self-projection.

He raised his gun again, the barrel glowing ominously.

"Your love is your downfall," he hissed, his eyes gleaming with a malicious glee. "It blinds you to the truth!"

With a flick of his wrist, Shen fired a barrage of firework pellets at her. Ceroba moved with the grace of a dancer, her staff slicing through the air, deflecting the darts as if they were mere feathers. The explosive ammo detonated around her, leaving a trail of flames in their wake. She could feel the heat on her fur, but she ignored it, her focus solely on the peacock before her.

Shen's eyes grew wide with surprise, and for the first time since his final fight against Po back in China, a hint of fear fluttered in his chest. He had not anticipated such resilience from the kitsune. He knew he had to end this now, before she could rally her people and stand as a true threat to his reign. He took a step back, his tail unfurling to their full majesty.

Ceroba felt the heat of the explosions wash over her, but she remained unscathed, her white mask a stark contrast against the fiery backdrop. The adrenaline pumping through her veins muted the pain in her side. She knew she had to be careful; one wrong move and she would not be so lucky.

Shen's eyes grew colder, his beak tightening into a snarl. He had not anticipated such a fierce opponent. He had encountered many powerful beings in his conquests, but none had challenged him with the unyielding love of a mother. It was a force that even he, in all his arrogance, had to respect.

Ceroba lunged forward, her staff spinning in an elegant arc as she aimed to disarm the peacock of his gun. The weapon was a twisted symbol of his power, and she knew that without it, he would be significantly weakened.

Shen, caught off guard by her sudden aggression, barely managed to dodge. His tail swiped at her, the sharp edges of his feathers leaving a trail of leftover ash across the ground. Ceroba rolled away, her eyes never leaving the peacock's weapon.

"You think you can beat me with mere love?" Shen's laugh was cold, the sound echoing through the abandoned streets of New Home. "Love is a weakness, a crutch for the weak!"

Ceroba's eyes narrowed, the pain in her side forgotten. Her staff began to glow with an intense light, the power of the mask resonating within her.

"Love is not a weakness," she said firmly, "it's what makes us strong."

Shen's feathers bristled, his eyes flashing with irritation. He raised his gun, but Ceroba was already on the move, her staff a crimson blur as she closed the distance between them. With a flick of her wrist, she sent a burst of energy towards the weapon, knocking it from his grip. It clattered to the ground, the fireworks inside it hissing and sparking.

The peacock prince stared in disbelief, his beak agape. He had never encountered someone so tenacious, so driven by something other than power. His mind raced as he searched for a new strategy, his metal talons clenching and unclenching near his sides.

Ceroba took a moment to catch her breath, the heat of the battle still pulsing through her veins. The gun lay between them, a symbol of the chaos Shen had brought to their world. She knew she had to end this, to rid the underground of his destructive influence once and for all.

With a roar that seemed to shake the very foundations of New Home, Ceroba leaped at Shen, her staff a blur as it struck at his wings, his neck, his eyes - anything to incapacitate him. Shen, for his part, was no longer the charming manipulator she had faced in the saloon. His movements were frantic, his eyes wild with the panic of a cornered beast.

The way his eyes were so small, he has lost his patience. Ceroba noticed. She knew she had him on the ropes.

"Your power means nothing!" she shouted, her voice filled with conviction. "You threatened to hurt my daughter, my home, and my friends! And for what? To prove that you're not weak?"

Shen's eyes widened, his feathers ruffling as he realized the depth of Ceroba's anger. His eyes followed the gun's location on the ground, his expression a mix of anger and disbelief. He had never felt so powerless, not since the day his own weapon had been used to bury him beneath the ruins of his fortress.

Ceroba took advantage of his distraction, her staff connecting with his beak in a swift and powerful blow. Shen stumbled back, his head snapping to the side. The metal of the staff left a faint metallic taste in his mouth, a reminder of the cold steel that had taken his life once before.

The peacock prince's pupils were dilated, filled with a psychotic madness that sent a chill down Ceroba's spine. He was no longer the charismatic leader she had encountered before; he was a creature of pure malice and anger, desperate to prove his worth. She knew that she had to end this before his madness consumed him completely.

"You think you've won?" Shen bellowed, his voice crackling with the fury of a thousand suns. "You know nothing of the power I wield! I don't need this weapon, I only need THESE!"

He then whips out his curved lance, the metal gleaming with the same malicious intent as its wielder.

Her heart raced as she raised her staff to parry the incoming attack, her muscles screaming from the effort.

Their weapons met with a clang that resonated through the deserted streets of New Home. The impact was so powerful it sent shockwaves through the ground, cracking the cobblestone beneath their feet. The air around them was charged with energy, the very fabric of the universe seemingly torn apart by their clash.

Shen's lance was a blur of silver, each strike calculated and precise. Ceroba's staff danced in a fiery dance, blocking and countering with a fierce grace that belied her injury. Sparks flew as metal met metal, the sound of their battle a symphony of chaos and determination.

Shen's eyes never left hers, his beak curled into a snarl.

"Why will you not fall to me?!" He roared, his eyes flashing with an unbridled rage that was both terrifying and pathetic. She felt a strange pity for the peacock, so consumed by his own power and bitterness that he could not comprehend the strength of her love.

Ceroba's eyes never left Shen's, her mind racing through every tactic she knew. The power of the mask was waning; she had to end this quickly.

"You think you can break me with fear and power?" Ceroba's voice was a fiery whisper. "But what you don't understand is that fear is a choice. And I choose to stand firm. You tried to pull it off on Kanako, and you will not succeed with me!"

Ceroba felt a bit of pain inside, knowing her daughter is practically dead after the whole serum situation. But she couldn't let that consume her, she had to keep going, keep fighting. She had to be the hero that Kanako saw in her.

Their weapons clashed again, the sound echoing through the desolate streets. The buildings around them had been transformed into a canvas of destruction, their once vibrant colors now muted by the soot and ash of Shen's wrath. Ceroba's movements grew more erratic, her breaths shallow and quick. But with each block and parry, she felt a surge of strength, fueled by the thought of her daughter's innocent eyes.

Shen, on the other hand, grew more desperate with each failed blow. His once elegant strokes became wild, uncontrolled swings. His feathers, once a majestic display of power, were now tattered and singed from the explosions. Yet, his eyes remained cold, his spirit undeterred.

The two locked eyes for a moment, the air thick with the scent of burnt gunpowder and the metallic tang of blood. Ceroba's white mask was now marred with soot, her once pristine fur now mottled with dirt and ash. But her resolve remained unshaken.

Shen took a deep breath, his chest heaving with exertion. He knew he had to end this. With a roar, he lunged forward, his lance aimed at her heart. Ceroba braced herself, her staff ready to meet his attack head-on.

But as the tip of the weapon neared her, she felt a sudden surge of power. Her eyes flashed with a brilliant light, and the staff in her hands grew brighter. With a flick of her wrist, she redirected Shen's charge, the tip of her staff catching his weapon and sending it spiraling out of his grasp.

Shen's eyes widened in shock as he stumbled backward, his balance lost. Ceroba took advantage of the opening, charging at him with the ferocity of a mother wolf protecting her cub. She leaps over and swings her staff, aiming for his chest.

Shen barely managed to dodge, his feathers fluttering in the breeze of her attack. He felt the heat of her weapon graze his cheek, leaving a searing line of pain in its wake. He snarled, his anger now a living entity that fueled his every move.

He merely touches the burnt scar on his cheek and hisses, then glares at Ceroba with raw intensity. He leaps into the air, his feathers trailing like a comet as he rains down loads of feather blades at her. Ceroba, now with the power of Kanako's mask, moves with a newfound agility, each blade narrowly missing her as she darts and weaves through the air.

Her movements are swift and precise, each step calculated to avoid the deadly rain. Her heart pounds in her chest, adrenaline flooding her body as she pushes herself to her limits. The air around her shimmers with an unseen force, the very fabric of the Underground bending to her will.

Ceroba's staff arcs through the air, catching the moonlight as she twirls it in a dance of death, each twirl and thrust aimed to disarm and disorient the peacock. She can feel the power of the white mask surging through her, a force she's never quite harnessed before. It's as if her love for Kanako has given her a second wind, a newfound strength to stand against the tyrant.

Shen's feathered blades clatter to the ground around her, their sharp edges glinting menacingly in the moonlight. He lands with a heavy thud, his breathing ragged and eyes alight with a mix of fury and something else: fear. Ceroba presses her advantage, her movements fluid and unrelenting. She can feel the tides of the battle turning in her favor, the energy of the spirits of the underground seemingly bolstering her every move.

Shen retreats, his eyes narrowed in concentration as he searches for a new tactic. Ceroba's heart races as she advances, the white mask on her face now glowing with a soft luminescence that casts an eerie light upon the ravaged street. Her staff slices through the air, a fiery extension of her will. The peacock's once confident smirk has been wiped away, replaced by a grimace of concentration.

As they continue their dance of death, the ground beneath them trembles. The torches of the temple mix in with the gunpowder, slowly setting a fire as the two opponents clash their way near the entrance of the temple.

"You'll be engulfed in the raw pits of despair!" Shen shouts, his eyes gleaming with madness as he charges towards Ceroba, his lance ignited with a fiery aura.

Ceroba's eyes widen, her heart racing. This was it, the moment she had to end this. She could feel the tremors growing stronger, the ground shaking beneath their very feet. The air grew hotter as the fire from the torches grew closer to the gunpowder scattered across the ground.

The mask on Ceroba's face seemed to pulse with an inner light, and she felt an unyielding force pushing her forward. She continued to dodge and weave through Shen's fiery attacks, her staff moving with a precision that even surprised her. The peacock's eyes widened as he realized the tide of the battle was turning, his own weapon now a liability in the face of her unyielding love.

"AAAAAAAHHH! JUST DIE ALREADY!" Shen bellowed in a fit of rage, the tip of his lance pointing straight at Ceroba.

The fire grew closer, the heat unbearable. The flaming feathers from his previous attack were now scattered across the ground, catching the gunpowder and setting it alight. The crackling flames grew larger, a fiery beast consuming everything in its path.

But Ceroba was relentless. Her staff swirled around her like a fiery tornado, deflecting every attack thrown her way. The air grew thick with the scent of gunpowder and the acrid taste of fear, but she would not be deterred.

Shen's feathers ruffled, and his beak clenched. He hadn't felt this challenged in a millennia. The thought of losing to someone who cared more for others than for themselves was infuriating. He raised his hand, and with a flick of his wrist, summoned a swarm of explosive feathers, each one aimed at Ceroba's heart.

Ceroba's instincts took over, the white mask seemingly guiding her movements. She spun and danced through the air, her staff slicing through the deadly rain of feathers, each cut a declaration of her refusal to back down. Her eyes never left Shen's, a silent promise to end his reign of terror.

The sparks of the fire made its way outside, igniting the metallic devices outside the temple. A hissing sound was heard as the devices began the explosion process. Ceroba's eyes darted outside, her heightened senses detecting the imminent danger.

"Shen, stop!" Ceroba's voice cut through the cacophony of the battle, her eyes filled with a fierce determination that seemed to outshine the growing inferno around them. "You're going to destroy everything!"

"You think I'm not aware of how far gone I am?!" Shen screeched, his eyes alight with a madness Ceroba hadn't seen before. "This is what power does to you! It consumes you until all you know is destruction! And now, it's your turn to burn!"

With a flick of his wrist, the explosive feathers grew more numerous, their fiery trails painting the night sky like a macabre aurora. Ceroba's heart pounded in her chest, but she couldn't let fear take over. She had to protect the Underground, and that meant stopping Shen before his madness consumed them all.

The air grew thick with the smell of gunpowder and the sound of clanging metal. Each attack brought the two combatants closer to the breaking point, but Ceroba's resolve remained unshaken. Her love for Kanako, her loyalty to the underground, and her desire for peace fueled her every move.

As Shen's feather bombardment grew denser, Ceroba's movements grew more precise, each swing of her staff a calculated response to the chaos around her. The world around them was a fiery whirlwind of feathers and sparks, yet she remained the calm eye of the storm.

For the first time since the battle began, Ceroba saw fear in Shen's eyes, fear of her power, of his own loss of control. The sharp feathers grew more hectic, the air around them thickening with the heat of their approach.

BOOM!

The metal devices began to explode one by one, the ground shaking as the sound of their detonation rolled through the streets of New Home. Shen looked back at the explosions catching up to both him and Ceroba from the temple.

Shen's eyes gleamed with his similar death back in China. And he recalled the last words he heard from Po when he offered him mercy.

"You gotta let go of that stuff from the past, 'cause it just doesn't matter. The only thing that matters is what you choose to be now."

Accepting his fate yet again, Shen closes his eyes and stays where he is, letting the explosions engulf him. Ceroba's eyes widen in horror as she watches the man she had grown to despise, yet understood, succumb to his own chaos.

Wanting her own life preserved, Ceroba uses her staff to summon a shield of light around herself, the same light that filled the mask. The explosions hit the barrier, sending waves of heat and pressure against her, but she holds firm. The shield holds, a beacon in the sea of flames that now engulfs New Home.

Soon, the explosion pushes Ceroba out of the temple, and she rolls across the ground, her fur singed and smoking. The world around her is a blur of flame and ash, the once majestic New Home now a scene of devastation. She coughs, her eyes watering, as she searches for any sign of Shen in the wreckage.

All she notices is the temple burning in the background, the heat searing against her back as she witnesses the destruction that Shen has wrought. Her eyes searched the inferno for any sign of him, but the peacock is nowhere to be found.

The air is thick with smoke, making it difficult to breathe, but Ceroba's focus remains unwavering. The mask on her face feels heavier now, a grim reminder of the battle she's just survived.

"It's... it's over," Ceroba murmured to herself, her eyes scanning the destruction. The once bustling New Home was now a shadow of its former self, a testament to Lord Shen's insatiable hunger for power. She felt a strange mix of emotions—relief that the immediate danger was gone, anger at the destruction he had caused, and a profound sadness for the life she knew was lost in a matter of days.

The sound of crackling fire and crumbling buildings was the only reply to her words. The once majestic temple was now a smoldering ruin, the flames reaching for the sky like fiery claws. Ceroba knew she had to act fast before the fire spread and claimed more lives. She stumbled to her feet, her legs wobbly from the exertion of the fight.

Her eyes searched the chaos for any sign of life, her heart racing at the thought of her daughter and the other citizens of the Dunes.

"Kanako," she whispered, her voice hoarse from the smoke. "Kanako... I stopped him. Chujin... Kanako..."

The gravity of the situation weighing heavily on her heart. She takes off her mask and stares at it, the light inside fading. The power of love had guided her through this battle, but it was also a stark reminder of what she had lost.

In an instant, she fell to her knees as she clutches the mask close to her chest.

"AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!" Ceroba's cry pierced the night, a mix of grief and anger, echoing through the charred remains of New Home's abandoned temple.

The mask grew dimmer in her grasp, the light fading like the hope in her heart. Despite her victory, she felt the weight of loss pressing down on her shoulders. The love and warmth that had fueled her was now a distant memory, replaced by a cold, empty ache.

Through the smoke and fire, she could make out the silhouettes of... what seems to be a star. Ceroba recognized the silhouette immediately.

"St... Starlo?" Ceroba choked out, her voice filled with disbelief and hope. The star-shaped monster looked down at her with a concerned gaze, his expression turning to one of alarm.

"Ceroba!" Starlo's voice was a welcome beacon amidst the hellish scene. He rushed towards her, his cowboy-styled body glowing brilliantly in the dark. "Are you okay?"

Ceroba nodded, though her eyes remained glued to the dying embers of the temple.

"I'm alive," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's... it's all over now. Shen's gone."

Starlo nodded solemnly, his eyes scanning the destruction.

"What happened here?" he asked, his voice heavy with concern.

Ceroba looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of pain and determination.

"He's gone too far," she said, her voice trembling. "He's lost to his own madness."

The two stood in the smoldering wreckage, the air still thick with the acrid smell of gunpowder and ash. The flames had subsided, but the heat was still intense, a constant reminder of the battle that had unfolded. Starlo offered his hand to help her up, his eyes reflecting the horror of the scene before them.

As Ceroba reached out for his hand, she grunts in pain, noticing a deep cut across her foreleg. The battle had taken more of a toll on her than she had initially realized. A result of landing from the explosion, no doubt. This causes Starlo to kneel and grab her hand, bringing her up.

"Ceroba! Please, get up," Starlo urged, his grip firm but gentle. "We've got to get you some help. Come on, I'll take you home."

Ceroba nodded, her eyes never leaving the burning ruins of the temple. She allowed Starlo to support her, leaning heavily on him as they made their way through the devastated streets of New Home. The once vibrant town was now a shadow of its former self, the buildings reduced to smoking wreckage and the ground littered with debris.

Soon enough, the two make it back to the Dunes. The sight that greets them is a stark contrast to the fiery hell they left behind. The Dunes are bathed in the soft, soothing light of the moon, the cool breeze carrying the scent of the desert sands. Ceroba's eyes scan the area, searching for any signs of life amidst the serene landscape.

"The Wild East," she murmurs to herself, her mind racing. "I need to get to the Wild East. But Chujin... and Kanako... they're..."

Starlo's expression softens as he looks at her.

"Don't worry about them now," he says, his voice a gentle rumble. "Let's get you to safety first."

The moment they arrive at the safe haven of the Wild East, the townsfolk stared as Ceroba and Starlo staggered into view, their eyes wide with shock and fear at the sight of Ceroba's bruised and bloodied forms.

The Feisty Four gathered around, their expressions a mix of relief and concern. Mooch and Moray rushed to their side, while Ace and Ed hovered nearby, their own battles etched into their fur and feathers.

"North Star told us about your plan," Ed began. "You seriously went off to fight him on your own?"

"I had to," Ceroba replied, her voice hoarse from the battle and the pain from her wound. "He's too dangerous to be left unchecked. But thankfully... he's gone now. He will never hurt anyone again."

The Feisty Four shared a solemn look before Starlo spoke up.

"Let's get you patched up," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "Then we'll figure out what to do next."

The group made their way to the local infirmary, the quiet whispers of the townsfolk following them. Ceroba could feel their eyes on her, a mix of awe and fear. The weight of her victory was heavy, but she knew it was not without cost.

Inside, a young nurse monster tended to her wound with a gentle touch, her hands deft as she worked to clean and bandage the deep gash. The room was filled with the faint smell of antiseptic, a stark contrast to the scent of smoke and ash that still clung to Ceroba's fur.

Once Ceroba was all patched up and the nurse went away to tend to other monsters, Starlo and the Five gather around, ensuring to also give her some space.

"So, what were you gonna say about Chujin and Kanako?" Mooch spoke up, breaking the solemn silence.

Ceroba took a deep breath, her eyes still haunted by the images of the burning temple.

"They... they're gone," Ceroba whispered, her eyes welling up with tears.

The Feisty Four exchanged glances, the gravity of her words sinking in. A heavy silence fell upon the room, the crickets outside the only sound to fill the void.

"What...what do you mean?" Ace asked, his voice laced with disbelief.

"Chujin passed away fairly recently, his dust scattered in his room," Ceroba said, her voice thick with pain. "And Kanako... it's not just a coma, she... she fell down."

"Wait... fell down? She hasn't dusted yet?" Ed's voice was filled with confusion and concern.

"Yes... I sent her to the Lab, hoping she gets another lease at life," Ceroba said, her voice cracking with emotion. "But she was so traumatized by Shen's attack, I fear for her SOUL. I need to find a way to save her before it's too late."

The Feisty Five exchanged solemn looks. The gravity of the situation was not lost on them.

"We'll help you," Starlo said firmly, his hand on Ceroba's shoulder. "Whatever it takes."

The group nodded in unison, their expressions resolute. Moray spoke up, their voice shaky but determined.

"We're with you, Ceroba. We'll do whatever it takes to help Kanako," they assured her. Ceroba nodded, her eyes squeezed shut as she leaned into the warmth of Starlo's comforting hand.

"Starlo," Ceroba managed to say through her sobs, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't... I can't do this alone."

The star-shaped monster pulled her into a gentle hug, his fur a stark contrast to her bruised and singed form. This causes Ceroba to gasp quietly.

"Wh... Why?" Her voice was barely a murmur, the shock of the revelation numbing her thoughts.

Starlo sighed heavily, his eyes filled with sadness.

"Because we're friends, Ceroba. And friends stick together, especially in times like these," He paused, his gaze meeting hers with a steely resolve. "We'll get her back. I promise."

Ceroba leaned into the embrace, feeling the warmth and strength of Starlo's arms around her. It had been so long since she had felt this kind of support, this kind of camaraderie. The weight of her grief and fear for her daughter's fate was almost unbearable, but she knew she wasn't alone anymore.

"Thank you," she murmured into his fur, her eyes still closed. "I need to find a way to save her, no matter the cost."

"I know, Ceroba. But for now, it's best we give you some time to calm down," Starlo said gently, pulling away slightly. "Since your house is empty... you're always free to stay with me. My house has the space, and the posse won't mind. They're more than happy to help out. Right, fellas?"

The Feisty Four nodded, their expressions a mix of sympathy and resolve. Ceroba looked up at them, her eyes red and puffy from crying.

"Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I'll need all the help I can get."

The group escorted Ceroba to Starlo's house, a small yet cozy abode in the middle of a farm. The quiet night allowed for the weight of the day's events to settle in, each step towards the safety of the house a step away from the chaos of the battleground.

Solomon and Crestina, Starlo's parents, were happy to see Ceroba again, despite the disheveled state she was in. They had known her since she was a young kitsune, and her friendship with their son was something they cherished. They welcomed her into their home with open arms, offering warm tea and a place to rest.

As Ceroba continued to make this place her home for the time being, her mind wandered around. Chujin's legacy... she still needs to fulfill it. She needs to protect the Underground from any harm. The thought of Shen still sends shivers down her spine, and the white feather she found in the ruins of the battle was a constant reminder of the peacock's malicious intent.

Ceroba knew that the road ahead was fraught with challenges. She had defeated Shen, but the wounds he had left behind were deep and painful. The prophecy of the human SOULs and still hung over her, a mysterious and dangerous plot that could serve a worse time for monsters of all species and ages.

She knows that once Asgore gets his hands on two more human SOULs, he'll shatter the barrier and everything will go from there. But all she wanted to focus on right now is Chujin's research, his legacy. She had to finish where he once started, to bring a new hope for monsterkind.

The next human that falls into the Underground... if Ceroba notices they're pure of heart... this is where she'll pursue her plan. But she needed to grieve, and at least Starlo was there to keep her company.

She has almost nothing left in life, but if push comes to shove... she already made peace with throwing it away.