Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It's an ordinary day in The Wild East. Dunebuds are wandering. And the heat's still irritating as ever.

Clover went to the saloon to grab some items, Starlo announced yet another silly mission. The saloon is owned by Dina, Clover's ma... well, adopted ma.

Entering the saloon, there's not much monsters hanging around. There are some folks Clover recognizes, Searby, Shane, Bubblo, Cowcat, Gamer, and Vergil.

Clover sees Dina, inspecting the "forbidden from kids" drink "Adult Soda".

Clover waves at their mom.

* Hi ma!

Dina notices, puts away the soda and waves back.

* Hey my lil' pup! Did you need something for me?

* Starlo called for another mission. And I thought I could buy some items just'n case.

* Sure! What ya' need?

* Well-

* hey, is this the kid you're talking about?

Beside them is this strange shorty skeleton monster, with pink slippers while wearing white socks, black with white two-striped shorts, a black shirt with white patterns resembling ribcage, and ontop is a blue hoodie with gray fur. And finally, he wears white mittens... seems like the heat doesn't affect him.

* Oh! Howdy Sans. And yes, this is my little pup Clover.

* hey kid, i'm sans. sans the skeleton.

Clover's confused, as he didn't recall seeing the skeleton monster in the saloon.

* W-Wait, how'd you get in? I didn't see you-

* Don't bother Clover, his entrances are... unique. To say the least.

* it's shortcuts, dina.

* Yeah, yeah. "Shortcuts!"

...

* Say my pup, do ya' mind sticking around for little bit? Sans is my esteemed customer and he's a fun guy to have'n conversations with.

Clover ponders...

* Sure! Starlo can wait.

* thanks kiddo. dina? give me the usual.

* Comin' right up Mr.Bones!

Dina checks her cabinet, one with a passcode on it. Clover can't see what she typed but, this is what Sans ordered...

A bottle of ketchup?

* heh, good stuff... catch up am i right?

Badum-Tsss

* Mom, you have a secret stash?

* Only reserved for Sans, my little pup.

* I want Icewater!

* Here ye' go.

...

* alright. to put it simply, i have been visiting wild east for a long time, lot longer than some might think. even i got recognized by north star, becoming an "unoffical member"

* Unofficial?

* i live in upper snowdin kiddo so i couldn't stay at the wild east daily, i have a house and cool bro there. i assume you haven't been there to yet?

Clover nods.

* i see, anyway at one point starlo got sick and i ranked up to becoming a "defacto-leader", and for few days me and the gang played cards, poker, you name it.

* but here comes the best part. one day after a game of cards, mooch said something like "i got ace up in my sleeves" at first we thought it was a pun since... y'know, ace himself.

* but in the next card game? all the winning streaks go up to her. we got suspicious so we inspected her cards and guess what? they're rigged, the kind of rigging that gets you winning.

* so what we did in response? ed folded her like a basketball and... we played basketball, with mooch being the ball, heh.

Clover* Pffft, haha! Does Starlo know any of this?

* nope.

Dina* Better keep it a secret hun', Starlo doesn't like missing out all the fun.

* hehe, i'll keep that in mind.

...

* Uh, Sans. I got a question.

* hit it kiddo.

* You said you have a... cool bro?

* oh papyrus? he's my cool brother. he's currently in the royal guard, albeit training. and don't be intimidated by him. he's a silly billy, but be intimidated by his puzzles... just incase.

* Woah... I would like to meet him one day.

Dina puts her hand on Clover's shoulder.

* Hopefully, my pup.

...

* Crap! The mission! Uh- 2 Feisty Sliders and 1 Root Beer!

...

* See ya guys! I'll tell Ceroba you said hi!

* Thank you little pup!

...

* they're a good kid dina. you deserve what the world offered you.

* I... thank you, Sans.

* it's strange comin' from me but, i mean it.

Sans winks at Dina half-heartedly, earning a smiling sigh from Dina.

* Heh, honestly? That's another friend that told me the same thing.

* and more.

Chapter Text

"Today was Ceroba's birthday, and so Starlo thought to make a party in my saloon, for her atleast.

Everything went great! Feisty Gang, Clover, Residents from Wild East and Oasis Valley joined in.

And now? The party is over, everyone went home... save for Clover, Starlo and his posse. They're sleeping in my place.

I was preparing a blanket for my snakes Ann, Sammy and Bert... when all of a sudden I got a mail. (In the night of all times?)

It's Ceroba, and she asked me to come over to her estate. It's something important and... kind of selfish?

Now I'm interested."

Dina arrives at the Ketsukane Estate, with Ceroba already waiting for her at the entrance.

* Ceroba, hun! What's the "selfish" occasion you called me here?

* It's... best if we talk in my room.

They're in Ceroba's (and formerly, Chujin's) bedroom. With Ceroba sitting in her bed while Dina stands infront of her.

* Well, Ceroba. We're here... what is it? I didn't come all the way here for nothin'

Closing her eyes, while a faint pink blush appear in her face.

* (You got this...)

* Okay, I... I wanted to ask you something at the party but I... lacked the courage.

* Hm?

...

* Can you... teach me how to dance?

Dina's eyes widen, Ceroba covers her face in embarrassment.

* (dontlaughdontlaughdontlaugh-)

* PFFFT- Hahaha!

* Noooo! Don't laugh!

* Heh! I-I'm sorry, what kind of dance? Something Starlo does or-

* The elegant type! You know what I mean? There was a moment where everyone around me were having a blast at the party, and I felt like I wanted to make a beautiful scenery with you...

* With the chaos all around us? Heh, I don't think so hun'.

* And not just that...

...

* I... couldn't have the chance to dance with Chujin, and... I thought maybe... you-

Dina sighs.

* Alright, take my hand... my beloved kitsune~

She reached out to Ceroba with an open right palm, the latter took it and swoop! Dina pulled Ceroba up close and personal, the pink blush on Ketsukane's face is more visible. Their hands intertwine while the others on Ceroba's waist and Dina's shoulder.

* Oh goodness.

* It's okay hot stuff, I'll admit I... never danced before as well, elegantly as you put it.

Their movement started slow, following their motions while also positioning themselves to the center of the bedroom for more space. Accidentally, Ceroba steps on Dina's foot.

* Oh! I'm so sorry I was too focused on y-

* It's okay! Didn't sting anyway. Now, ready to twirl?

* Wha-OAH!

While still holding Ceroba's hand, Dina uses her left hand to twirl Ceroba. Then, letting her go and catching her gracefully with a pose that's usually performed when a dance is about to end. Dina's still being confident while Ceroba's being wide-eyed doozy blushing mess.

* You're... good at this.

* Huh, that's kind of surprising I must admit... now it's my turn, pretty fox!

At first, they're performing the same action but the roles are switched. And Ceroba's internally screaming at herself to not screw this up... until Dina pulling a devious smirk, grabbing Ceroba by her waist, holding her up while twirling with her might (with Ceroba screaming in confusion) finally ending with them crashing down to the bed.

...

* I... didn't expect that!

* Haha! Look at your face hun! Oh Starlo's gonna love it when I talk about this.

Ceroba sighs...

* Still... it was, fun.

* And?

* Probably... the best birthday present.

...

* Hey, Clover's here...

* L-Little pup?!

* Howdy moms!

Apparently, Clover followed Dina with maximum stealth as they put it. And watched their dancing lesson all the way till the end, leaving a small congratulating clapping afterwards.

He even asked if they can sleep here for the night. The two agreed and now, Clover's sleeping peacefully in the middle. Dina and Ceroba while are not asleep, looking at Clover with happiness in the couple's eyes. Dina's holding her pup's hand while Ceroba resting her hand on their head.

* ...Dina?

* Hm?

...

* What... what would Chujin think? About us, being a thing.

* Honestly? I think he would be glad that you found happiness again.

* Happiness... without him? Even... Kanako...

...

A tear has been shed, sliding down on Ceroba's face.

* Sweetheart...

* I want her Dina... I want her back...

* I know.

Chapter Text

When the news reached to The Wild East folk, they couldn't believe it. After many decades since monsters were trapped in this vast underground, The Barrier is finally broken?

Dina in her saloon with all other Wild East and Oasis Valley residents all processing the news. Cheering, drinking, flipping tables with victory screech that would usually result in Dina scolding them... but she isn't responding.

Instead, she's... a bit down, her snakes noticed it too. One of them hiss in concern.

* Huh? Oh... it's okay Ann, I'm fine. It's just...

* I wish my pup was here to see this.

She recalled the day that Clover... gave up their soul to King Asgore. It was their choice however, no matter how much Dina and Ceroba (and others) protested. They had to do it, at the behest of monsterkind.

Even recalling his last words...

"Mom? Mama? Thank you, for everything."

Dina's hurting memory review is interrupted by the arrival of Ceroba.

* Dina? Are you all right dear?

* Honestly Ceroba? This is too much to take in. With Clover and... allat'

* ...I share the same sentiment too, can you give me the usual?

* Here you go love.

Ceroba chugs her drink, like there's no tomorrow... well, there's no "Tomorrow is the surface." There's now "Today is the day."

* I bet it's only the two of us that... didn't react to this news like everyone else.

* Searby just broke and burned a table by headbutting it, never seen him be this excited.

Ceroba chuckles.

* Do you remember... the aftermath of his passing. What it entailed for us?

* Ugh, don't remind me hun'. Lots of crying, drinking to drown our sorrows and griefs... it was horrible.

* Yes... and here we are, we haven't gotten over it...

* ...I think Clover would be happy about-

Someone entered the saloon, Ceroba and Dina expected Starlo and his gang... but it's, rather a human. Same age as Clover and wearing a blue & purple stripped shirt.

The couple were confused when the child told them that someone is waiting for them, outside. So they followed them.

Only to be met with... with...

* Ma'? Mama?

* I'm back!

It felt like time stopped the moment they see Clover, alive and well... only missing their signature hat.

As tears fall from Clover's eyes, they ran to their mothers. Hugging them, in which they do the same.

A tearful and emotional reunion... beautiful.

* M-Moms! I-I missed... you all, so much!

* My sweet pup!

* C-Clover! How are you alive?!

Clover wiped his tears away, facing Ceroba and Dina with a smile.

* Well... it's a long tale... a really great one!

* Wait, does Dalv, Martlet, Starlo'n gang know about your revival?

* I met them ma! They're doing okay.

The hug lasts longer and tighter. Happiness is back within their hearts...

Ahem.

They face the monster who cleared their throat...

It's Alphys, who was with Frisk the entire time, still wearing her scientist attire. She apologizes interrupting the reunion, but she tells an urgent situation for specifically Ceroba.

And that's regarding about Kanako, Ceroba's fallen daughter that was taken to "The Lab".

According to Alphys, all other fallen monsters were reunited with their families... except for Kanako. As she refused to leave the lab for unknown reasons.

* This is where I need you, Ceroba... but y-you could take others with you, if you want to!

...

* Well... Dina could accompany me. Clover? Frisk? Go to my estate and wait until we return.

* What's this Ceroba? A mission for two of us?~

* Finding our daughter? Yes.

Clover pouts.

* Aw, what?! I didn't get resurrected for nothing! I wanna meet my-

* Uh, little child, do you mind looking after them?

Frisk gives Ceroba a thumbs up.

* Ann, Sammy, Bert. Look after them, kay'?

Hiss!

Alphys speaks up.

* We m-must be careful! Kanako's... changed.

* Changed?

* I'll... explain in a bit.

They're in the Lab walking in the halls. without any amalgamates, the atmosphere is empty yet eerie.

Ceroba* So what I'm understanding is... in her current state, her body is changed?

Alphys* Yes, slender height and... goop everywhere. Usual Amalgamate anatomy, hehe!

...

Ceroba* I appreciate that you still helped all the other fallen monsters, even in the state they were in.

Dina* Poor fellas...

Alphys* At first, they were scared, confused but overtime they got used to their bodies... though, there were instances where they lose control to "primal instincts".

Ceroba* C-Control?

Alphys* Ah! Here's the room!

Alphys brings the couple to the room where Kanako resides in.

* O-Oh! It's very dark, let me see if I can find the a lightswitch...

Turning them on however... reveals nothing but emptiness. She panics.

* W-What?! But I swear she was... K-Kanako?!

While Alphys and Dina were searching the room, Ceroba finds a strange grey blue substance on the ground.

* (What's... this?)

It appears the substance is... coming from the ceiling?

...

Blue eyes flash from the dark.

Suddenly, Ceroba is attacked by... Kanako?! Ambushing her from the ceiling with a loud THUD. Then, scaring her cheek before getting kicked back.

* Ceroba!

* Ugh! I-I'm okay Dina!

* No! No! No! This isn't s-supposed to-

* Stay back Alphys!

Kanako growls, standing up to tower of their prey.

* Whatever you are, I'll...

Ceroba gasps, and so does Dina. They fully see her in full form.

With her standing up reveals her slender stature. With goop running down all over her body and the eerie yet threatening presences she makes with her dark empty eye sockets with blue bloodshot pupils.

* K-Kana...ko?

Kanako yells with her distorted voice.

* Get... away... MONSTERS!

Crouching down to on all fours, Kanako tackles the couple. Alphys tries to intervene but the amalgamate lets out a warning snarl. Resulting Alphys backing away a little bit.

...

Through Kanako's perspective, the pleading cries of her prey are unheard... but, something or someone is stopping her from killing the couple.

* no no no NO NO NO-

Back to the scene, the monstrous Kanako immediately gets up, a pain surging within her chest. While Ceroba and Dina get their bearings. Ceroba approaches a little bit closer to her daughter...

* K-Kanako? I-It's me! Your mother!

Kanako "replies" with a painful scream, before something comes out of her chest.

* I'm so sorry! I'm so sorry! I didn't want this to happen-

The bloodshot markings disappear, leaving with blue pupils and blue tears. Seems like Kanako and... someone else regained conscious.

She looks down on the blue goopy human with melting face, hugging them tightly.

* I-It's okay! I regained control-

* I HURT HER! BECAUSE OF ME!

* It's mine! It's my fault that I failed to maintain-

* IMSOSORRYIMSOSORRY- PLEASE FORGIVE ME!

* Shh, shh. No one will ever hurt you. 

The Blue "Human" wails, getting louder and louder. Kanako can't do anything but to hug and comfort them in return, even if it's futile.

Meanwhile. Ceroba, Dina and even Alphys couldn't believe the sight they were seeing...

What happened to Kanako all this time?

* C-Ceroba? You know how you injected Kanako with substance of Blue SOUL? Some of it's conscious of that bearer somehow... transferred into Kanako's soul. Both of them sharing a body... but I-I never seen anything like this! I-I'm telling the-

Ceroba immediately hugs both her daughter and the "human", tears well up in her eyes.

* Kanako...

...

* M-Mommy? I wanna... go home.

The situation's resolved, with the previous Blue SOUL bearer calmed down, they return back to The Dunes and en-route to Ketsukane Estate. Alphys says she has other important business with the main group.

Frisk and Clover were playing in the courtyard with Dina's snake, they stopped when they noticed Ceroba, Dina and Kanako entering the estate.

* Mom! Mama! You came back and-

Clover gasps at the sight of Kanako's form, including the blue human resting on back of Kanako's neck.

Kanako only gave them a weak wave. Ceroba with strange monotonous voice saying.

* Tomorrow, we'll pack our stuff and... explore, the surface.

* M-Mom, your cheek!

* Clover, sweetheart. Your ma's tired, we're all are. I promise you we'll explain everything by tomorrow... which includes you too.

* O-Okay, right then... I guess this is a temporary goodbye, Frisk?

They nod and left the estate.

* Bye! Tell Chara and Asriel I said Hi!

...

* A-Asriel, my pup?

* Like I said! Long tale.

Dina's setting blanket for Kanako and Clover (They suggested to sleep with their sister, incase for company and comfort.)

* Are you sure you'll be okay with Kanako sweetheart?

* Mhm!

Clover closes their eyes, into a deep peaceful sleep. Dina smiles at this.

...

* How... are ya' feeling Kanako?

...

* For a long... time, I felt their guilt, sorrow, regret. Which is why... I...

* You... refused to leave the lab.

* I mean, we've grown accustomed to the place. But it's also, they were scared... of going back.

* What's her name if you don't mind?

* For her respect, I won't say it.

* A-Ah, sorry.

...

* Tell mommy that... I'm sorry for her cheek.

* It wasn't your fault-

* No! Just... tell her.

...

* O-Okay... good night, Kanako.

...

* Night'... mama.

In the parents bedroom, Dina and Ceroba are resting and facing opposite side one and another, it says how this day was a complete both a blessing and a bummer.

Ceroba* Did... Kanako said anything?

Dina* ...She says she's sorry for the scar on your cheek.

Ceroba sighs in defeat and tiredness.

Ceroba* Her state... it's my responsibility...

Dina* Ceroba-

Ceroba* And I need your help... please.

...

Dina softly touches Ceroba's scarred cheek.

Dina* We're in this together my beloved kitsune... I'll be there, taking care of Clover, Kanako, and the human within her soul.

Ceroba, Kanako and their human friend stare the sun.

* What do you think of the sun my dears?

...

For the first time ever, the duo smiles.

* It's beautiful.

Chapter Text

Location: Oasis Valley, Café Dune.

* C'mon... c'mon...

* You only got 1HP left!

* Just a few enemies and we'll get to see the final bo-

Uh oh!

...

That hurt!

* Awwwgh!

* We were so close!

* Look on the bright side, we got score of 1000!

Three monster children, the one playing Mew Mew Love Blaster is Lukas, and his spectators/friends Byte and Niko.

* Welp, Byte? Niko? It was fun havin' y'all help me trying to uh, beat the game.

Byte sighs.

* Eh, maybe next time...

...

* Well, I guess I gotta go home now. Uhm, do you mind y'all coming along with me?

Byte and Niko throwing their fists in the air.

* Yeah!

By the moment the trio exited from the Cafe, someone was on their way to the place and-

THUD

Accidentally bumped into Lukas. 

* Owch!

The person bumped Lukas, apologizes first.

* Oh! S-sorry I didn't see you!

* It's okay it's not like this is the first time this... happened.

Lukas and co' get a closer look on the stranger of their age, having a cowboy-like attire... Lukas asks.

* What... are you?

* O-oh! I'm... a human?

...

* Byte! Niko! Group meeting!

The kids circle around while the human stares at them, awkwardly.

Byte* No freaking way. A human? Here in the Dunes?

Niko* What's... a human?

Lukas* Have you never paid attention to class Niko?

Niko* It's not my fault I'm very prone to sleep!

Byte* They're the guys that trapped us here in the first place, but the hat one doesn't seem... hostile?

Lukas* Only one way to find out...

The gang turned their attention to the human...

Lukas approached, and offered them a handshake.

* I'm Lukas! You?

* O-oh! I'm Clover, good to meetcha' partner!

* Likewise! And these are my friends, Byte and Niko... so uh, what are you doing here?

* I-I'm trying to find Martlet, a blue bird from Royal Guard... I reckon you three didn't see her anywhere?

They shrugged.

* Dangit', where am I supposed to go now?

...

Lukas thought of something...

* I got an idea! There's a town nearby, The Wild East. I can take you there!

* R-really?

* Yeah! Come with me!

Lukas took Clover's hand, getting the boy startled. And ran the path that leads to the town, with Byte and Niko following suite. Their destination... is The Wild East.

On their way to the town, the kids asked many questions to Clover. How is the surface? Are cowboy-attires are a norm? Are pancakes also made by humans? Stuff like that. And Clover answered each one.

An encounter took place with Byte trying to intimidate the girlboss cactus and coming across a wishing well. The group commences their tradition with throwing 1G into the well with Clover doing it for the first time. Lukas wishes the day he sees the beauty of the surface, Byte wishes improvement of his gaming skills, Niko wishes that lots of pancakes will be ready when she returns home. And finally Clover wishes they... find the five missing humans... silently. 

They made it to the entrance... with Martlet scanning the place.

* Martlet!

!

* Clover!

The two hug'n embrace.

* Are you okay? Are you hurt? I'm sorry I left you- I-I was trying to find a place to-

* I-I'm fine! Was tryna' look for you and... made some friends!

* Friends?

Martlet spots the trio, all waving at her.

* H-hello there! I... must thank you for looking after Clover... uhm, your names?

* Lukas!

* Byte.

* I'm Niko! We're the ones who brought Clover to this place. Lukas lives here, I-I think?

* True! My mom has a saloon nearby, I'm gonna show her and others that I met and befriended a human!

...

* I'm... sorry Lukas. While it sounds lovely, Clover needs to-

* Hey guys! Looky here!

Martlet and kids turn back to see the voice... it's a fish monarch with an excellent-themed cowboy attire.

* We've got Lukas, his co' and... two new strangers!

One by one, three other cowboy monsters arrived to the scene. One with a mysterious feel, one filling the muscles role, and one looking like she pickpockets monsters when given the opportunity.

* This better not be another joke...

* For once, don't like it is.

* Hiya strangers!

Ahem.

* H-hello! We're just passing through. And we mean no harm!

The muscles spoke.

* Tch, that's what the last guy said, cuz' he's one with the wind now.

...

Strangely, this got Lukas, Byte and Niko snickering...

* What?

* Sorry, Uncle Ed. But, that didn't happen!

* Oh come on Luke', gotta ruin the joke now?

* Ma' doesn't appreciate with y'all showing signs of violence. Otherwise she'd kick yer' butts!

The excellence chuckles... then Martlet asks.

* Lukas, you know these four?

* They're my friends! Ed, Moray, Mooch and Ace! They're friends with North Star! Which... where is he? Mooch?

* I think he should be coming here soon!

...

* Wait, ma'... I almost forgot!

Lukas hold Clover's hand and runs to the direction of the saloon. With Byte and Niko following them. Martlet tried to call them but her voice is unheard.

The kids passby...

* Woah! Lukas! Where yer' going?!

* Not now Uncle Star!

SLAM

* Atten-shuuun!

All the noise and conversations are stopped, turning their attention to the kids. The Bartender (Presumably Lukas' mother) is was startled, then surprised of his sudden entrance.

* Is that Dina's son?

* Who's that other kid?

* Must be important...

* My pup'? What's going on?

The lads move up to the stage, with Clover prompted to sit on the stage bench.

* Ladies, gentlemonsters and monarchs! We made a friend! Their name is Clover, but they're not just any friend! They're a human!

Bunch of "oooo"s and "woah"s from the crowd. Byte spoke loudly.

* We met them in Café Dune, bumping into Lukas but no harm done! On our we asked them many things.

Then Niko.

* Surface! Humans! Pancakes! And more!

North Star, Martlet and others entered the Saloon, with the first being visibly excited.

* Kids! You actually befriended a human?

* That's right Uncle Star!

* Heh... this might workout after all.

Star moves to the stage, crouching to inspect Clover.

* May I get your name partner?

* Uh, Clover!

* Clover, eh? Kids, if you don't mind me taking over.

...

* My friends! I take a look at lil' Clover, and I see they're no greenhorn! They know what they're doin' in these places. Just look at em' hat!

Another bunch of "oooo"s and "woah"s from the crowd. And a kitsune fox monster seem to be interested in this ordeal.

* Hm, this could be fun. Dina, the usual please!

...

Ahem.

* So, as the kids put it, Clover is indeed a human.

The kids bow, Niko overdid it a little and fell face first.

* Now, I could let Clover tell y'all all about their life... but I've been studying up. I'm bit of a human expert if ya didn't know!

* Oh great, here we go.

* Here we go indeed Ceroba!

The kids got off the stage to sit by somewhere else, with Lukas sat right beside his mother.

* Arright' Did ya' know that humans use monsters fer' transportation? It's true! Large, four-legged monsters. They put a seat on the top of em' and everythin'!

Ceroba sighs.

* They're called "Horses" Star...

* Ah... so you know one of em' personally? Never uhm, knew that honestly...

...

* A-anyways! Did ya also know that humans are fireproof?

Clover raised an eyebrow at him.

* When they're feelin' accomplished, They ride monsters straight into a huge fiery sphere!

* Does this mean they burn, right? I mean, most monsters aren't fireproof...

* Uh, what are you sayin' Ceroba?

* Star, are you saying my friend Horses was killed by a fiery sphere?

The crowd gasps in shock, like this is some soap opera or some shit.

* Eh?! No, I'm... not sure actually! I'll just ask our guest!

North Star crouched, whispering to Clover.

* Do the monsters die? It has to be no right?

...

* Uhm... nnnnnnnooooooo?

JUMP

* Hah! See Ceroba? Everyone's fireproof!

* Star, dear. You don't need to keep this up... because it's all true, every word.

Ceroba giving him a wink.

* Heh, I knew it! I'm pretty darn good, aren't I ladies and gentles?

The crowd chant all good about the sheriff.

* Go North Star go!

* My hero!

* Long live Feisty Five!

* Haha, aight'... I reckon we're done here, y'all can return to your daily lives... Clover? The town has so much to offer, take your time explorin', talk to the townsfolk and your new friends and-

* B-but what about Martlet? Mr.Star?

...

* Aaaaaaa- Don't worry about it! I'll be waitin' for ya, give me a shout when you're ready to start some trainin'! I could bring in the kids too.

While Clover was interacting with the folks enjoying their time in the saloon, atleast some...

* So yer' the one my little pup' befriended you, ey?

* H-huh?

It's Dina, with Lukas beside her. Clover approached to sit by with them.

* Oh! Hello, you're... Lukas' mother?

* Please young'n, call me Dina. I'm the owner of this fine establishment.

JUMP

* Me too!

Dina ruffles Lukas' hair, in an affectionate way.

* Well Clover, consider yourself welcomed to my family.

* E-eh?

* Any friend of my kid is also a kid of mine... that uh, includes You, Byte, Sadie, Niko, and... Kanako.

...

* (Haven't seen Kanako in a while.)

...

* Uh... suppose Star's waiting for you? We'll talk each other some time again! Lukas? Look after your friend would you?

* Sure mama! I'll bring Byte and Niko with me.

* Aight', have fun out there and kick some butt!

Chapter Text

In one universe, a neverending of resets, deaths and one particular death from Ceroba caused Clover's inside of their mind scarred and developed two sentient manifestations only existing in his mind. "Judge", mimicking Clover's appearance with worn down greyscale aesthetic, uncanny eyes, and a severe resentment towards monsters. Specifically the ones that Clover met, fought and befriended. And it stems from how many times Clover died to them. "Martyr", mimicking Clover's appearance with golden hue and glow all around their body, and the embodiment of self-worthlessness/self-hatred. And it stems how Clover's 2 out 3 ends always result in them passing with giving their SOUL to the monsterkind. Like a sacrificial lamb...

Now that you got the basics... what are they doing now?

* It's... quiet.

* ...Too quiet.

* It's almost as if we're... not really in Clover's mind anymore? We're only in a void of nothingness. Did you do this?

* Oh- here we go, here we go! When something strange happens whether it's about Clover or not, the blame goes to me!

* To be fair, you put blame on me when something like that happens too.

* That's because I hate you and your existence. Simple as that.

* The feeling is mutual.

* That's funny! Because we've been at this for HUNDRED TIMES!

* Monsterkind deserve freedom-

* THEY. DO. NOT. End of story, they're murderers, liars, hypocrites. Including Clover's... "friends."

* ...And so the cycle continues...

Judge chuckles out of disbelief...

There's nothing but silence as the duo sitting on the non-existing ground, facing the darkness in opposite directions... then suddenly, a glowing light emanating in the dark...

* What... what is that?

* It looks like... a door?

They approach it... slowly.

* I don't like the looks of this.

* Heh, like they say! Curiosity killed the- WOAH!

They're pulled in!

...

The door closes.

FwoooooooooooooP

THUD

* Ow!

In unison*

* Since- did we just felt pain? That doesn't make any... what the?

Judge stared at the ground, only seeing purple checker-patterned floor... when he raised their head to see their surroundings however.

The duo stare wide-eyed at Clover and beside them is Dina. The two also share the same awe.

* Woah...

* Guys... you weren't kiddin'.

* W-what?

* Ah, your machine worked, Sans. Though it appears it's on a cooldown.

Then they turned back to see who ever congratulated the person "Sans". First they see a short skeleton monster with a lab coat, waving at them. And they see a monster made out of pure black-mass with a singular yellow eye. Also wearing a lab coat. Well, a purple lab coat to be exact.

* aw shucks, seems like the search for my universe would have to wait.

* Then atleast let me-

* I'm sorry, WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON?!

Dina quickly covers Clover's ears.

* Uhm...

* What are you going to do to us? Kill us? Experiment us? Dissect us? Because you can at the very least pick him, not me!

* Oh boy...

Clover stepped in.

* O-okay, okay! Let's not escalate this further, I-I'll tell everything... I'm Clover, but, not your Clover. And this is my mom!

...

* D-Dina is your mom?

* You got that right little pups! But I think we let Shockwave explain the situation for you.

* Who?

...

The black-mass monster approached the duo, menacingly towering them... but his voice is rather... soothingly formal.

* Greetings, I am Shockwave. Assistant to the current Royal Scientist. For quick context, Judge and Martyr. A day ago Clover discovered this workshop, during their visit to the "Skeleton-Bros Residence".

Sans scratched back of his head/skull.

* eh, my fault i couldn't hid it better.

* Indeed, and in turn Sans found Clover snooping around in his workshop. You might have noticed the main highlight of this workshop, this machine. Sans created it but I'll explain it properly.

* To put it simply, again. Sans and his brother Papyrus are... not from here, and the former is working on this machine to return back to their own world. Or own universe. Whatever you name it.

* something like that, yeah.

Dina spoke.

* Ain't gonna lie Sans, while I'm kind of shocked that I've been friends with a guy who's... well, not here. But I'm also... sorry, of your circumstances.

* heh, it's okay dina. just try not to dwell on it.

* My condolences for you and your brother as well...

...

* Anyways. And today, Sans called me, filled me in and requested repairs while he was off to sentry-duty...

...

* But, I may have overworked it. As the machine now can detect other universes or even timelines near from this universe.

* honestly? i'm very impressed with you skill shocky'.

* To the point you called for Clover once we gained access of multitude selection of alternate universes-

* Stop the science talk Cyclops, which universe are we in right now?!

* Isn't it obvious?

Judge and Martyr turn back to see Dina giving uppies for Clover.

* Who's a good little pup? Yes you are!

Clover giggles.

* Dina? Well... I guess she's tolerable.

* So uhm... what does all of this have to do with us?

* sorry, may i take it from here?

* Go ahead. I'll continue working on your creation.

...

* so, we've read all info about your universe and your origins... and oh boy, you two have issues. like, equally.

* You're... half-right, Judge has issues. I have none.

* Liar. I'm completely fine! That pissy boy is downright suicidal.

* And you're genocidal!

* Then seethe!

* Why you-

Sans breaks up the fight, Clover hides behind Dina, and Shockwave not caring any of the drama.

* woah. woah. woah... chill.

...

* Tch.

Martyr sighs.

* aaaaanyway. your own universe peaked shockwave's interest and so he picked you two, pulled you in to this universe... but, as you heard... it created a problem

* ?

* see, the machine has a cooldown function that requires wait and maintenance which shocks' doing right now.

* And for you information, the machine will be powered again in one week. I'll continue my advancements so that the problem won't be persistent.

* thanks. and so, you two are... kinda stuck. no hard feelings.

...

Martyr might have noticed Judge's eye twitched in response. Then the latter exhaled rubbing his temples.

* This is seriously too much to process...

* And, given the fact we hate each other. We need supervision.

Judge's sarcasm perks up.

* Wow! Brilliant idea Marty! Because once I find a weapon that can kill our supervisors, I can finally get away from... no, I can get rid of you.

Judge's suggestion ticked Martyr off, judging by the five o' clock shadow casted in his face.

* If you dare to lay a finger on any monster...

* can it you two.

The duo were startled by Sans' left eye flashing cyan and yellow.

...

* seriously though, what are we gonna do...

...

* We got an idea!

Clover pulled the two closer with their shoulders. And a bright smile and eyes casting.

* Mom thought about adopting them! If your word is true that their universe is... bleak. Why not we let them stay here? I like the idea of having siblings... or twins! Hehe!

* WHAT?! I object this!

* O-oh?

* you sure kiddo? i mean i'm not against the idea, but dina's gonna have a hard time raising a kid like creepy eyes here-

* Alright you two, listen up!

Dina approached the two authoritive style, Judge scowled at her while Martyr took a step back in slight fear.

* Setting up ground rules! No fighting each other, no antagonizing each other, treat my pup kindly, and most importantly!

...

Dina huddled them closer into a hug.

* Welcome to the family.

...

* What... is this feeling?

* I don't know, but I... don't... care...

Martyr melts into Dina's arms, filled with lots of affection. Judge was hesitant at first but how intoxicating the hug is... a black blush appeared on Judge's cheeks and tightened the hug.

Clover and Sans can't help but "awww" at them. Shockwave looks on while working the machine at the same time.

...

Clover suggested.

* Hey wait a sec, we can't just call you Judge and Martyr. You two should pick new names!

...

* You called me "Marty" right? I think I like it.

* ...You do?

* Yeah! What about you?

...

* Jax. Name's Jax.

It took a long travel from Snowdin, Waterfall, Dunes, Oasis Valley and finally, The Wild East. Sans, Dina and her kids made it to the saloon. While the adults are gonna have... discussion with others, the kids are gonna sleep for the time being.

In Dina's bedroom, three mattresses, blankets and pillows are prepared. Clover took middle, Jax took left and Marty took right.

* Ah, it was a wonderful travel!

* It wasn't, with that bone comedian always getting on my nerves.

* C'mon Jax! No need to get judgmental do we?

Jax growls.

...

* Not to mention that apparently, we've been followed. By Shockwave's underlings. Sans sensed them and, ugh! They were creepy.

* Insect monsters? A grasshopper, a stag beetle and a rhinoceros beetle. Kickback, Shrapnel and Bombshell respectively.

* Sans said that Shockwave found them in the deepest depths of Waterfall, and recruited them to the Royal Science Division.

* Do you think the insect trio were outcasts? Sans even said that they can digest 95% of known matter... including other monsters or humans. Basically cannibals.

* Yeesh! They're a great horror story material though! Ahaha... ah.

* I will rip them apart whenever I-

* Jax. Mom said no violence from you remember?

...

* Uh, Marty? You've been awfully quiet.

...

* Huh? Oh... I guess... I have nothing to say for the most part.

* Never knew you're that anti-conversationalist... then again, we used to yell each other from time to time.

* I can't believe it, you guys were manifested from the mind of your Clover?

* Yep, but the reasons of why or how are... rather grim so we'll spare you the details.

* And we're born from various parts of Clover's thoughts, Jax's is resentment and betrayal against monsters... and I'm guilty conscious of the fact that monsters are stuck here because of our...

...

* But you two are in my world now, you can be anything you want! Nothing's gonna stop you... and, I'm sure that we'll be the best sibling squad in the whole world!

...

* Haha... yeah.

* I would like that, honestly.

The next day.

* No! No! I am not meeting them!

* We have no choice Jax, besides! I didn't die to them throughout my journey!

* I know, but still!

The kids exited from the saloon to meet up Clover's friends like Starlo, Dalv, Red, Sadie, Byte, Niko... but more importantly, other moms?

Jax gasped at the sight of Dina, Ceroba and Martlet... holding hands, greeting them... so that's what Clover was talking about!

Ultimately, the gloomy bro tried to go back inside the saloon but Clover and Marty pulled them over to the crowd. Jax screaming and flailing, trying to escape... but it's inevitable.

* Cloveeeeeer!

* C'mere our pup!

* It's good to see you again Clover.

Martlet, Dina and Ceroba hugged Clover.

* So what do we call em' fellas? Golden Deputy? Hehe.

The feisty gang took a look at Marty's golden appearance...

* This Clover's mine!

Sadie grabbed Jax from behind and held them like a squeaky toy, resulting in Jax blushing and agitated. While Dalv, Red and the kids asked Jax... many questions.

Overall? I think the two are gonna love it here.