Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

He awoke to the usual sound of Lancer's shenanigans. It bothered him that he had let Lancer get so unruly, especially to the point of disrupting the sleep of everyone in Castle Town, (the Darkners who spent all night at Swatch’s Café probably felt the same), but there was nothing he could do now.

He debated sitting him down and teaching him proper etiquette, but he doubted Lancer would listen. He also knew how Susie would react if she found out, and he didn’t much care for being turned into a pancake for the ninth or tenth time. If he’s being honest he’s lost track of the amount times he’d been rendered into the main dish of a Saturday morning breakfast.

It became such a regular occurrence that Kris, rather endearingly, took to calling him “Pansei”.

The thought made him smile, a tinge of sadness shining through, they haven’t visited in a while.

He understood why. After everything that had happened, he asked them to visit less, as lousy a request as it was. 

But still, the stretches in between visits have never been this long.  

The sound of a wall crumbling somewhere in the castle quickly gained his attention and wiped the smile off his face, swiftly disregarding his thoughts.

He sat up, stretching before grabbing his glasses and wrapping his scarf around his neck, snug but not uncomfortable.

He sighed.

“I guess it’s gonna be one of those days.”

To Ralsei’s surprise, the now destroyed wall didn’t have anything to do with Lancer. 

Well, it did have something to do with Lancer, but he wasn’t the one that did the deed.

Instead, he somehow managed to convince Rouxls that an open-floor Plano, sloppily drawn by Lancer in a colour Ralsei didn’t recognize, was all the rage in the Lightners world. By tearing down his wall, Lancer convinced Rouxls that he would be the leader in a brand new trend of home improvement. 

Rouxls, being the attention-hungry Darkner he is, was utterly swayed. 

Lancer, on the other hand, just wanted to see what a crumbling wall tasted like. 

It wasn’t that bad, all in all, it would probably take him all day, but at least he would be busy.

For as many things he could do in Castle Town, he never took interest in any of it, at least not without the company of one of his friends. 

And with visits being less frequent at his request, things got quite boring.

He sighed as he prepared himself for work.

”Why don’t you just use magic?”

Ralsei jumped, he hadn’t heard anyone else enter the room. 

He swiftly turned around, and to his surprise, stood the human whom he had been missing.

”Kris!” He yelled.

He opened his arms wide, going in for a hug before he hesitated. Kris understood what was happening and slotted themselves in his embrace. 

“I told you that it was fine. It’s not like that anymore, you won’t make me uncomfortable.” Kris said.

”I know, it’s just…” he let out a sigh, “I know. Anyways, where have you been? I’ve missed you!”

”Yeah, sorry, just been thinking about… things, been kind of distracted. I’ve missed you too.” Kris said.

”Distracted?”

”All these questions, least you could do is answer mine.” Kris chuckled.

”Oh! Sorry! Umm, just wasn’t expecting a visit today, and without anyone around, the towns so… dull. Fixing the wall would’ve kept me busy.”

”And now that I’m here?” Kris spoke, their head tilted with a smirk on their face.

”Now that you’re here…” he let out a chuckle before snapping his fingers, the once destroyed wall fixing itself in mere seconds. Ralsei placed his hands on his hips, giving out the big huff he would have, had he done it by hand.  

 “Et voilà! Done! Now! What’s been distracting you?” He questioned.

”Uh, later alright? Swatch’s?” Kris deflected.

”Kris, if something is bothering you, the least I could do is lend an ear!”

“It’s nothing bad, I have a feeling you’ll like it if anything, but later alright? Been a while, just wanna hangout first.” The human said.

”Something to look forward to then! To Swatch’s?” Ralsei cheered  

“Way ahead of you,” Kris spoke walking off.

Kris was acting strangely, he tried not to pay attention to it. They were never one to keep secrets, well, small secrets at least.

He also couldn’t help but notice a blush on their face, where before there was never.

He loved the idea of what it could mean  

As much as he dreaded it.  

Thankfully, the walk to the café distracted him well enough.

The café was always the most lively place in Castle Town, every Darkner spent at least one night here, though Kris couldn’t help but point out that the Darkners that they recruited from the Dark World in the Lightners church were here almost every night. The beverages were also a lot… hardier than any other Darkners.

Ralsei didn’t dare try it, nor did Kris. The only one who ever did was Susie. The aftermath of that adventure wasn’t all that pleasant, though Kris would argue it was hilarious. 

He always liked their sense of humour, as strange as it could be. 

“Busy. Busier I should say, Swatch get his rest?” Kris asked, scanning the café for an open seat.

”I make sure he gets his rest, Kris. No one here is overworked.” Ralsei answered.

”And you, seems to me you try a bit TOO hard to keep this place perfect.” Kris darted their gaze directly over to him.

”I get my sleep. Besides, as I said, the work keeps me busy when no one’s around.”

”Maybe I- uh, we should visit more, don’t want you overworking yourself ‘cause we won’t visit.” Kris said.

It was unlike them to ask to visit more, they were the first to agree to visit less, they didn’t like it, but they understood why it had to happen. 

“Kris, no. As much as I want to say yes, it’s for the best if things stay as they are. You know why.” He tried to sound stern, but he was never very good at it.

”But-“

”Kris, I’m sorry but no, besides if I was overworked, I’d let you know.” Ralsei affirmed his position.

“Yeah, okay, I’ll drop it, see anywhere to sit? Place is packed.” Kris sounded upset.

”I always have a table reserved, never know when it might come in handy!” 

“Sweet, you go sit, I’ll get us something. Any requests?” Kris smirked.

”Surprise me!” He exclaimed before walking off, almost tripping over a tiny Darkner brought over from the Dark World in that strange man’s store.

He was never properly introduced to the man. All he knew was Kris wasn’t fond of him, something about befriending their mother. He never understood why that was such a bad thing. As much as Kris tried to explain, he couldn’t follow.

He pondered what was distracting them so much their behaviour changed.

It wasn’t a massive change, nor an unpleasant one, but it was just odd.

They were friendlier. More talkative. 

Not to say they were mean before, but they were never this agreeable. No matter what the two of them did, they always found a way to twist it into a harmless prank. 

He remembered disliking it at first, before ultimately conceding that it was fun.

And never before have they seemed so interested in talking. They were never silent, they always had something to say, but they didn’t waste a breath. Not a single word was without purpose.

“And here you are!” Kris spoke, dragging him from his thoughts. 

In front of him, they placed a cup of still steaming tea. It looked familiar but he couldn’t put his finger on what exactly it was.

”Any guesses?” Kris asked, taking a seat just opposite him.

”None. What is it?” 

“That would be telling!” Kris exclaimed, a smile appeared on their face, but once again it wasn’t filled with mischief as he would’ve expected.

”Hmm, what’d you get?” 

“Uh, just tea!” 

“What kind of tea?” He pressed further, confused as to why he had to press in the first place.

”Well, umm, you know, the uh, tea kind, with dried up leaves I found on the ground, and the bugs I found underneath for flavour!” Kris laughed. 

Ralsei chuckled. That was the Kris they knew, but still, he couldn’t help but notice that they seemed… embarrassed. 

Kris was NEVER embarrassed.

But the slight shift of colour on their face, he would blame it on a random heat wave, were this place not purposely kept cool. 

“You okay? You seem a little off balance, not in a bad way, mind you! Just, not your usual self.” Ralsei asked.

”Yeah, just got a lot on my mind.” Kris said. 

“Everything okay up there?” He said, pointing his index finger up.

”Yeah, nothing to complain about, if I’m being honest it’s more about down here. Someone I should say.” Kris said though they mumbled the last part to themselves. 

“Oh?”

”I’m jumping the gun, in due time you will know all,” they smiled.

”Why not right now?” the prince asked.

”In this locale? Way too public! Anyways,” they lifted their cup and moved it towards the centre of the table, “To us?”

“To us!” Ralsei said, grabbing his drink and clinking it against theirs. 

Taking a sip of the tea, he was met with what he could only describe as perfection. Bliss in a cup. He had to stop himself from chugging it like he knew Susie would. He knew it was something he’s had before, yet now…

“What is this?” He asked.

“Do you not like it?” Kris responded, sounding rather panicked. 

“Oh, no, no, no! I love it, it’s… honestly, that's the only way I can describe it. I love it!” He exclaimed, waiting in anticipation for an answer.

He couldn’t help but notice a blush once again rising on Kris’s face and their newfound grin that was full of satisfaction. 

“Umm, think I’ll keep that one to myself, I’ll have you know that I also loved mine,” Kris said.

“What was it?”

”Also gonna keep that one to myself for the time being,” they sighed.

“You’re secretive today. Sure everything’s alright up there?” He asked.

”Yeah, like I said everything’s dandy, down here is what’s distracting me.” Kris reaffirmed. 

“What exact-“

”Say, why don’t we ditch this place and head to the dojo?” Kris said, standing up abruptly. 

“But I-“ Ralsei protested.

”Perfect! Off we go!” The human said, grabbing Ralsei by the arm, dragging him with them. 

Kris had a grip like none other, Ralsei wondered how they’d fumbled their sword so often, wherever this newfound strength came from, he hoped it would save him having to heal any nasty wounds they might receive in the dojo. Scrapes were fine, anything else made him queasy.

Though something tells him Kris will be quite reckless today. 

“I had no idea a person could get bruised in so many different ways.” Kris winced. 

"You wouldn't have to find out if you were just more careful," Ralsei said sighing.

"Ya ya, not my fault, I assumed Clover wouldn't be a problem anymore," Kris said.

"It is EXCLUSIVELY your fault!"

"Says who?" The knight said, a smirk appearing on their face.

”Are you- says me, Kris. And anyone else who was watching” Ralsei groaned.

”I think anyone who watched would a-“ the human was abruptly cut off, grabbing at their side where they took an especially nasty swipe from Clover.

“Oh! Are you sure you don’t need me to heal you? It’s no bother you know.” Ralsei asked.

”I’m good, Susie’s gonna be jealous,” Kris said proudly, “Uh, thank you though.”

“Of course.”

The silence between them was nice, to Ralsei it was familiar, he always understood that Kris enjoyed a comfortable silence every now and then. Though he’ll admit he enjoyed watching them ponder the room he made them. He never got any sign that they liked it, nor any that they disliked it. They spent enough time here for him to assume, but Ralsei learned fast enough that nothing is that easy when it comes to Kris. 

“I ever say thank you? For the room I mean.” Kris broke the silence, looking at one of the many photos the two of them took throughout their adventure. 

“You never needed to, what’s a friend for?” Ralsei smiled.

”Friends, huh?” Kris said, reaching for another picture on their wall, pulling it off to, presumably, get a closer look. Ralsei tilted his head as Kris patted a spot on their bed, inviting him to sit with them. Ralsei took the invitation happily, the familiar scent of apple growing stronger. 

“What do you think of this picture?” Kris asked, handing the fluffy prince the photo.

It was that photo. The one that was taken at Queens mansion. He was fond of that moment, he wouldn’t admit it, but he enjoyed the affection. But he thought Kris didn’t… unless?

”What do YOU think of this photo?” 

“It used to bother me, I’ll admit. But now? Now I’m quite fond of it, it’s a good memory, even if I didn’t believe so in the moment.” Kris said.

Ralsei could feel their hand brush against his. He was in utter disbelief, he could feel his heart in his throat, while at the same time a growing pit in his stomach.

”Kris? What’s been distracting you?” He asked.

“Umm, when I’ve said it’s this place, I wasn’t being entirely honest.”

”Oh?” He said though he had already put that together by now.

”It’s you. You’ve been distracting me. I can’t stop thinking about you.” Kris said, they sounded rather embarrassed.

”Kris I-“

”I thought if I just didn’t see you for a while, it’d get you off my mind, but it just made it worse” They moved their hand on top of his.

Why did this have to be happening?

”A few days ago, I realized what it was. You… you’ve done so much for all of us, changed yourself just for us, for me! You went from being a stranger to someone I feel like I’ve known for years!” Kris’s passion seemed to be unending.

He hated this as much as he loved it.

He wished it was just one of those days, he wanted to be sitting there, repairing that damned wall.

But this is so much better.

He feels Kris lace their fingers together. 

“Ralsei, I really like you.”

He felt cursed, to hear these words from them, oh how it made him swoon. But he also knows he has an obligation, one he must keep, even if it hurts.

”Kris, no.” Ralsei barely managed to squeak out two measly little words through the tightness that enveloped his chest.

“What?” 

"Kris I don't-" 

"No, don't you dare! That’s a lie and we both know it!" Kris stood up.

”Who are you to say how I feel?” Ralsei said defensively.

”What do you think that tea was? It was mine! You said you loved it! We both know what that means!” Kris yelled.

“You mean you… Kris!” 

”I… I know how you feel, I feel too. I want to be with you.” Kris said as they tried grabbing his hand, Ralsei swiftly pulled away.

This is what he’s wanted. From the moment he met them he couldn’t deny how they made him feel. But he made everyone a promise, he made himself a promise. And he can’t just turn his back on what he thinks is right.

”K-Kris, I wish I could.” Ralsei spoke, he could feel something building in his throat and eyes.

”Why? Is it really so wrong for a Darkner and a Li-“ 

“What? Kris, nothing forbids it. It’s my choice.” He could feel the tears welling

“Then why?” Kris pleaded for an answer.

”Kris… I… I…” 

He wished he just stayed in bed. 

“Because I love you!”

With four words, all of the strength Ralsei had left him. The tears pouring down his face weren’t unfamiliar but never had they made him feel so utterly defeated. 

He wishes he was more like Kris.

”I love you, and I refuse to let you fall into this illusion as hard as she did! I… I can’t let that happen. This place… y-you have a life up there. I’m not going to let you lose yourself down here like she did. I can’t bear to see you like that.”

At least Kris knew how to keep theirself together.

”So please, I beg of you! Leave! Leave before I never let you go! Leave before you lose yourself here!”

Kris never cried, it was something he admired about them. 

“I’m sorry.”

The silence that followed his words was deafening, only broken by the sounds of the human he had grown to love, the human who loves him back, heading towards the door.

He didn’t blame them, there was nothing they could say.

The door to the room he made for them. So that this place would feel like a second home.

He had been so sure of his decision but now? Now he had no idea what to think. 

The click of the door being gently closed behind the human whom he loves was piercing.

He knew exactly what to think.

But it’s too late for that now.

He heard another wall crumbling somewhere in the castle.

He sighed as he tried to dry his tear-soaked fur.

He was right.

It really was one of those days

Chapter Text

“So?”

“What?” The human huffed.

“How’d it go?”

The following silence and soul-piercing stare, Susie received from their closest friend said everything.

It didn’t go well.

She’d admit, she didn’t exactly believe Ralsei had it in him. The way she saw him swoon for his knight in moss-covered armour, she thought Kris would be dancing into whatever the Dark Worlds' equivalent of a sunset is. She respected that Ralsei stood by his convictions, not making an exception for a love he yearned for.

She knew he was wrong, but the hell did that matter to him?

“Wanna talk about it?”

“No,” Kris scoffed, swiftly walking away head hanging low.

Susie stood there, alone in the school's hallway, the distant sound of the front doors opening and closing being all there was to break the silence Kris left her in.

She contemplated jumping down to Castle Town, giving Ralsei a piece of her mind, maybe busting down a wall or two to give her argument weight.

But she didn’t.

It wouldn’t make Kris feel better. It would make Ralsei feel worse than she already knew he did. She only wanted to go make a scene because she wanted to feel better. But this wasn’t about her. This was about her friends. Least she could do was lend an ear. Maybe be the calm, reasonable voice between the two.

The idea made her laugh. Calm and reasonable was never her style. But still,

She owed them both, big time. Least she could do was try. 

Alright, the whole ‘mediation’ thing wasn’t exactly Susie’s forté. How it came so naturally to Ralsei and Kris (well it wasn’t exactly natural for Kris) eluded her. It’s been a week since she last saw Kris, 3 since she’d seen Ralsei. 

She felt like shit. 

The incessant calls from Toriel asking if she had known what was wrong with Kris didn’t help. She was fine with lying, but to Ms Toriel? About her best friend? That was too much and as if Toriel knew, Susie’s phone went off. 

*RING* *RING*

”Susie?” 

“Yes, Ms Toriel?”

” It's Kris. I can’t stand them being locked up in their room any longer. Do you think you could come over? You always manage to cheer them up,” Toriel said. 

Wasn’t much of a choice. She couldn’t say no. Not to Toriel. Was about time she at least tried anyhow. 

“Uh, yeah… yeah I can… dooo… that.”

”Thank you, Susie. Can I expect you in an hour?”

”An hour. I’ll, uh, be there soon.”

Susie hung up, feeling nervous since… well for longer than she could remember. Normally she’d just bounce questions off Ralsei when it came to comforting people. 

But, if she could learn magic, this should be no problem, right?

Kris’s house hasn’t changed since their sleepover. How they managed to convince Toriel that the television antenna just up and disappeared, Susie never knew even if Toriel did find out where it ended up in the end. 

She made her a pie as a thank you for visiting, chocolate butterscotch, the smell was somehow nostalgic. If the circumstances were different she’d show Toriel her magic and make it ‘disappear’. But she knew it was Kris’s favourite. They probably smelt it but were too stubborn to leave their self-imposed exile to grab a piece.

Toriel seemed to agree with her, grabbing two plates, and cutting a piece for her and Kris. Toriel didn’t bother grabbing any utensils, she learned that wasn’t really Susie’s style, and Kris might as well have some fun. 

“Thank you again, Susie. This means a lot.” Toriel said

”Uh, yeah, thanks for the… uh,” Susie lifted the two plates Toriel prepared and smiled.

Toriel gave her a nod and smiled back.

Soon after Susie disappeared, climbing the stairs.

*KNOCK* *KNOCK*

”Kris?”

No response.

”It’s Susie.”

Nary a murmur.

”Look listen, either you can open the door or I can break it down,” she snarled.

The door clicked and swung open. They looked like a zombie, more so than usual at least. It stood in stark contrast to how they were just a week before. So bright and lively, smile plastered on their usually indifferent face. They had been so sure of the outcome.

”You look… not… well.”

Their stare was like daggers. 

“Uh, Sorry. Brought pie,” she said, gesturing with the plates.

Kris moved to sit on their bed. Susie took that as an invitation to enter, closing the door behind her. She sat on the chair they stole from the Throne of the Gods, handing Kris the plate with the bigger piece.

Kris ate it voraciously, one of the things they picked up from watching her eat. But, for once, she didn’t touch her plate. When her friend finished she handed them her plate. They barely hesitated.

”Good?”

All she received was a nod before they shifted themselves to lie facing the wall.

”Nice.”

The silence was uncomfortable, uncanny, there was never really a silence between them, not like this at least.

”Sooo… how you… doing?”

They shrugged. Susie decided it was better than silence.

”Uh, cooool, I, uh, saw Berdly by the beach recently, tried to ‘woo’ me again, I pushed him into the water, took me a while to realize he couldn’t swim, your friend in the water saved him. He was convinced his love for me allowed him to fly and save his life. Said it was proof that we were meant to be. I couldn’t stop snickering,” She laughed.

Kris didn’t.

”Well, at least I, uh, thought it was… pretty funny.”

Susie stared at the ground, dangling her legs around, ready to leave. But… But she owed them. And she wasn’t one to owe anyone, nor give up.

”C’mon could you give me something? Anything? I’m not good at this like you.”

Kris just pulled a blanket over their head.

Susie sighed.

”Look, I’m sorry. Know you probably blame me a little. Probably shouldn’t be the one doing this but your mom asked. Were up to me I’d give you the space. But it isn’t, and… and it helps to talk, you told me that.”

”I don’t,” Kris mumbled

”Huh?”

”I don’t. Blame you that is.”

”You… don’t?” Susie scratched her head.

”Why would I?”

”Uh, ’Cause I told you that-“

”And you were right, can’t blame someone for being right.” Kris said.

”I was… right? How exactly?”

”He feels the same way I do.” Kris said, Susie could hear them sniffling.

”Then why are you here, not down there?” Susie asked.

”Because he feels the same way I do.”

“I… I, uh, don’t think I follow. Don’t exactly see-” Susie knew what they were saying, but she just wanted them to talk more.

”Said he forbids it. Same reason he asked we kept up here. Doesn’t want anything bad to happen to me.”

”Hmph, the hell does he know?”

”A lot.”

”Just saying, we know our limits and-“

”Susie, he’s right, it’s for the best.”

”You believe that garbage?”

”Yeah, I do, now just drop it alright? Want it off my mind.” Kris sighed

”No, Kris, he’s wrong, we both know it.”

”Susie. Just, stop”

”Why? So you can just sit here and mope some more? Thought you didn't like attention, so why you locking yourself away? Never liked attention-seekers.” Susie yelled.

”Because. He. Knows. What’s. Best.” Kris sat up, their face scrunched in anger.

Susie smiled, always felt it helped to look a person in the eye when they needed to talk. At least it helped her. She relaxed in her chair.

“Kris, if he was right, you wouldn’t be here, moping. You’d be out there, finding the tallest tree to climb, getting stuck at the top fighting a bird for its territory. You were so happy before. You can’t say he’s right”

Kris slumped back down on their bed.

”Look, I get he’s smart, but he doesn’t know what it’s like to be us, y’know? Peach-boy only knows peach-boy.” Susie laughed.

Kris chuckled.

”I mean, guy doesn’t even understand the whole moss thing. Won’t even bother trying it, hell we taking his advice for?”

Kris laughed.

”I say we stomp down there, give him a piece how our mind, and stake claim to the nearest pizza place, hells he gonna do?”

Kris laughed.

But it died off.

”Not like he can throw us out, guys so small I could pick him up by the scruff!”

Kris stared at her.

Their eyes showed an emotion their otherwise blank face denied. 

”Yeah! That’s what we’ll do! Let’s charge down there and-“

Kris…

Kris cried.

Kris never cries.

But there they were, the soothing, salty, drops of water Susie knew all too well. Their face seemed to reject this unfamiliar act, they were straight-faced as ever. 

But their eyes. Their eyes are something Susie will never forget. Defeat. 

“Kris, I, uh… shit, I-I’m sorry. Shoulda known I was going too far.”

”No, no. I’m sorry. Shouldn't have to see this. Didn’t want you to.” Kris sniffled.

”Kris, no. No more of… whatever it is your doing. Your moms worried. Your dad. Hell, I’m worried, buddy. So, just get it out. No one's gonna think less of you,” she said.

”I miss him. I wanna go down there. See him, talk to him. I just wanna be with him. But he won’t let me,” Kris rubbed their eyes.

”I know.”

”Woulda been easier if I just let him say he didn’t feel that way. But I had to know, made him drink that tea. Had to make him say it. I had to hear it. Thought it would make a difference. Just ended up making it worse. Sucks knowing the only reason I'm not down there is he loves me, so he thinks he has to protect me.”

“He’s wrong.”

”Is he though?”

”Yes, Kris he is! Just... just look at yourself! Kris this isn’t you. Ever since he… ‘exiled’ you, you’ve been in the same boat as-“  

“Susie, don’t. Just don’t,” Kris said, softly.

”You know it’s true.”

”…”

”Yeah.” Kris nodded.

The both of them went silent. They didn’t like talking about her. There was no anger, no ill-will towards her. But it was a sensitive topic for both of them, for vastly different reasons. 

But Susie was here for a reason, and feelings long past wouldn’t distract her.

“So, feeling any better?” She asked.

Kris chuckled, “Yeah, could use more of that pie though.”

“Say, your moms worried sick, why don’t we go say hi and grab a piece?”

”Sounds good, one thing though QC’s later?”

”Like I’d say no.”

”Thought as much, never know though right?”

Kris jumped out of their bed, stretching as if they hadn’t moved a muscle in a week. Which Susie supposed was partially true. 

But, before Kris could open the door, she grabbed them by the arm.

”One more thing, was gonna go down to Castle Town soon, wanted to know if you’ll tag along?” She asked.

Kris shook their head.

Susie sighed, “Want me to tell him anything?”

”I…” 

“You?”

”I... tell him nothings changed, nothing he could do can make me feel different.”

”Can do, you weirdo,” Susie laughed.

Kris rolled their eyes.

With nothing else to say, Susie left (but not before getting to try that pie). She nearly had to fight her way out, Toriel insisting she stay over. A surprise hug from Kris was distraction enough for her to slip out.

On her way home, her phone went off, she rolled her eyes assuming it was Kris, already wanting to meet at QC’s. But it wasn’t. A small smile appeared on Susie’s face.

Hey, Suz.

It was her.

Chapter Text

He was really starting to regret not teaching Lancer proper manners. If he could go back in time, that’s something he would change for certain, (though, it would not take priority). It’s as if that bouncy ball of chaos knew he wasn’t in the best of moods. To Lancer's credit, they did ask why ‘blue person’ left in such a hurry, completely disregarding his, at the time, dishevelled appearance. Not to mention ignoring the clear distress he was and is in. But, when Lancer found his answer, that Kris had some chores they forgot to do, satisfactory, it was back to usual business. His current obsession seemed to be turning the castle walls into rubble. A memento of last week's occasion, as the Darkners from QC’s, would say.

He supposed he should be thankful, the work cleaning up after the child was as good a distraction as it was the first…? No, the second time. 

But for once, he wasn’t feeling all that thankful.

It’s been a week since Kris was last here. Even longer since Susie stepped foot down here. It scared him to think about, the last thing he wanted was to be left alone again. But then, he supposed, he should have just gone for it. Crisis would have been averted.

He finished patching up the newest DIY home renovation Lancer attempted. He was covered in mortar and bits of brick, his once pristine white fur, filthy. He hoped, though he knew it would be in vain, that he would have time to clean himself up before Lancer realized the severe lack of unconventional breathing holes in the castle.

And like clockwork, he could hear yet another wall bite the dust. He let out a sigh, resigning himself to his fate.

Rushing over, what he saw infuriated him. Whatever compelled Lancer to turn the door to Kris’s room into a pile of rubble, Ralsei didn’t know nor did he care. 

“LANCER!” The prince yelled, the volume of his voice not matching the soft sound.

”Yes, peachboy?” Lancer smiled.

”This is it. You are done. D-O-N-E, done! I’ve had enough! Go to your room, me and you are having a chat later!”

Lancer didn’t lose his smile.

”A chat? Just for me? That sounds awesome! You better keep your promise! Smell ya later!” Lancer said, sticking his tongue out, and making splat noises down the hall before arriving in his room.

Ralsei sighed. At least he got his desired outcome, though his prospects of actually teaching him anything got lower by the minute. For now, however, the fluffy prince shifted his thoughts to the destroyed door to the room of the one he most desires. He hadn’t had the stomach (or time) to step in and tidy up after what had happened. Not that it was dirty,  a bit dusty perhaps, and he didn’t make the bed after he curled up under the sheets and sobbed until he fell asleep. 

He just couldn’t bring himself to open the door. Frankly, he should have thanked Lancer for taking the step for him.

Rolling up his sleeves, he got to work. He decided dusting and tidying the room itself would come first. Luckily enough, very little of the rubble made its way into the room, Lancer seemingly needed to exit Kris’s room. As he cleaned, he could still smell the apple shampoo Kris used. The cleanup, all in all, didn’t take long. After Kris’s room was tidied, he moved on to the debris, which didn’t take long to gather and dispose of. Though avoiding getting a few new splinters made it a bit harrowing.

Rebuilding the door itself, was the hard part. He had the frame rebuilt within the hour, but the door itself was giving him a headache. Whatever Lancer did seemed to have irreparably changed… something about this part of the castle. No matter how hard he tried, the door would no longer close. It was close, painfully close,  a mere sliver from shutting, but no matter how much strength he summoned to keep it closed, it would always open. Always just a sliver. Eventually, he gave up, deciding to leave it as is. Something about it made him feel… good, in some strange way. He let out a sigh of relief as he started to make his way to his room, to finally rid himself of the filth covering him. 

He stopped by Lancer's room along the way to explain why his behaviour would no longer stand. All that his explanation seemed to do, however, was put him to sleep. At the very least, no more walls would need fixing today. At this point, any victory was good enough for him, no matter how small. 

Arriving in his room, he realized how untidy it was. Cleaning up Kris’s room must have put it into perspective. It was very unlike him to leave his own space so dusty. He would tell himself that it was because he had no time, but that wasn’t true. He had plenty, even after fixing the castle for the 30th time. The only truly ‘tidy’ place he could spot was his desk and even then, pictures of Kris and himself were scattered haphazardly. He was always grateful there was always a conveniently placed camera to immortalize the moments they shared. Especially now.

On any other day, Ralsei would have gotten straight to work, but now? Now all he cared about was cleaning himself up and passing out before he has another breakdown. He took one last look in his mirror before he cleaned himself up. He was disturbed by what he saw. Not the filth, that would be gone in due time. It was his eyes, they were so… so… blank. They reminded him of the way she looked as the fantasy he enabled, crumbled, partially thanks to him. It made him shiver, guilt he could never bury once again finding itself lodged in his conscious. Now, all he wanted to do, was rid himself of grime and sleep. Luckily enough for him, what he wanted is what he got, for once.

Ralsei woke up peacefully, his internal clock deciding it was time to wake. It made him uneasy. Normally Lancer would wake him up and while he didn’t mind getting a good night's rest, not being able to hear Lancer put him on edge. He feared it meant the next adventure of his would be extra destructive. For now, at least he could enjoy the quiet and lay in his bed a while longer. He expected a crash or a boom to interrupt his tranquillity, but as minutes passed without even the slightest sound, his anxiety rose sharply.

Shooting out of his bed, he quickly prettied himself up, if disaster is to happen he might as well look good after all! Running out of his room, Lancer was nowhere to be found, not even in Queen's room, where Queen was doing… whatever Queen does. Eventually, he made his way outside to the lively plaza of Castle Town where he quickly spotted Lancer.

And Susie.

He didn’t smile, he was happy to see her of course, but he also knew why she was here. That elephant could probably fill the entire Dark World and then some. Despite his reservations though, he ran over just the same.

”Susie!!!” He exclaimed.

Susie jumped at the sudden noise, “Gah!  Jeez, dude, trying to kill me or something? Little warning next time?”

”Oh… I’m sorry…”

”I’m just messing with you. What’s not a joke is, from what someone tells me, your trying to lecture Lancer?” Susie crossed her arms.

Ralsei sighed, at least Lancer actually DID pay attention to what he had to say. Though he wasn’t looking forward to once again being rendered into a pancake. At this point he really should just change his name to ‘Pansei,’ he knows Kris would like it if they ever do visit again.

”So? That true?” Susie snarled.

He didn’t respond. Instead, he just stared, as if he could see right through Susie, his expression one of complacency, exhaustion and sadness. Any moment, he expected Susie to bonk him on the head. 

But that moment never came. Instead, Susie’s snarl was wiped off her face, replaced with sympathy, something she felt often, though rarely ever showed.

”Hey, Lancer, think you should listen to Ralsei, just this once yeah? I mean if you destroyed my room, I’d be eating you for breakfast!” Susie, once again, snarled, though it wasn’t as genuine this time.

Lancer looked shocked, “If you say so, Susie…” Lancer started to walk away, his head hung low. Ralsei noticed Susie seemingly debating whether to stop him or not. Luckily for Ralsei, she let him go.

”Thanks,” Ralsei said. 

“He really mess up their room?”

”Yeah, door smashed and everything.” 

Susie crossed her arms and let out a huff, “Yeah, that’s too much even for me.”

“Anyways, how have you been? It’s been so long!” 

“What’re you saying it’s been a while, thought you wanted it this way?” 

“Less doesn’t mean never, Susie! So, how have you been?”

Susie rolled her eyes, “I’ve been… better can’t really complain though.”

“Oh? Is something bothering you?” Ralsei asked.

”…”

“Susie?”

Susie signed to the castle, “C’mon.”

Susie started to make her way to the castle, and Ralsei quickly followed. The walk was silent, but he couldn’t help but notice Susie’s reputation amongst the various Darkners had spread. He didn’t like that they cowered at the mere sight of her, though he understood, considering what happened in the bunker. The few that weren’t afraid, instead of remaining indifferent, gave her dirty looks. That bothered him beyond belief, she didn’t deserve hatred. 

Eventually, after their short walk, they arrived at the ‘lounge’ before the Dark Fountain. Ralsei never understood why Susie liked it here so much, it was the least developed room in the castle bar none. There was a couch, a love seat, and a couple of chairs surrounding a coffee table, on top of which was an unfinished game of ‘Monopoly’, or at least that’s what he remembers Kris calling it. Perhaps it was the simplicity of it all that she enjoyed, a room where she could simply enjoy her friend's company, when before she had none. The thought made him smile, before quickly snapping back to the reality of why he was here.

”So?” He asked.

”Hmm?”

” What's been bothering you?”

”Oh, uh, nothing. Just wanted to come to see how you're doing after… y’know…” Susie trailed off, seemingly attempting to retreat into her skin. Ralsei found it funny seeing someone usually so bombastic and open, uncomfortable and reserved.

”I… I think you can guess.”

”Bad?”

Ralsei sighed, taking a seat in one of the chairs, ”Horrible. I feel like trash, garbage and various other synonyms for something only worth throwing away.” 

“That’s… that’s not good.” 

“Yeah, that’s one way of putting it.”

He stared blankly as Susie sat down on the couch adjacent to him, staring at the ground playing footsie with herself. He averted his attention to the sound of the fountain that was a single decision from being sealed. The sound it made used to give him great comfort, now all it reminds him of is lost opportunity and all the things he could’ve done differently. If only foresight was among the list of things he was capable of. Things would’ve turned out much better. 

“Can we go?” Ralsei mumbled.

”Huh?” Susie said, snapping out of her intense footsie daze.

”I don’t wanna be here.”

”Why? We LITERALLY just got here. Besides, it’s nice in here, got a… uh, table and an ominous beam of-“

”Susie, shut up. Please. This isn’t helping.”

Susie looked shocked, Ralsei near immediately regretted his words.

“Damn dude, that sounded like- you sound like me,” Susie stuttered in disbelief.

Ralsei sighed, “I’m sorry, that was rude and I apologize. I think… I think some alone time would be of great help right now.” He looked at the floor, mostly out of shame.

”Don’t you have enough alone time dude? Like seriously, we NEVER see you anymore.”

”There’s good reason for that,” he said as he kicked a loose pebble on the floor.

”Can you, like, NOT bring that up again?”

”HOW CAN I NOT?!” He quickly rose from his chair, his yelling surprising himself as much as it did Susie.

He slowly sat back down. He could feel tears welling in his eyes before he managed to regain his composure.

”You think your the only one who blames themselves? I know Kris does, it takes everything I have to not think about it. I mean I had to- GOD, why are we talking about this?”

Ralsei sighed, “I’m sorry.”

”Look, Noelle’s dad died, then she finds out her sisters kind of just, around, doing bad guy shit? Even without us, things were bound to go bad. ‘Least that’s what works for me. So let’s just drop it.”

”Have you heard from her? She told me she always, ummm, well, you know?”

“Yeah, we talked recently. And no, I don’t know.” Susie said.

“You talked?” Ralsei said enthusiastically.

”Yeah, asked how everyone was doing, if anything interesting had happened recently.”

“What’d you tell her?”

”The truth. Not too impressed with you by the way, given how you, uh, confided, in each other about your, well, you know.” Susie chuckled.

“Oh?” Ralsei tilted his head.

“Yeah called you a- it’ll be easier to just show you.”

Susie grabbed her phone, quickly scrolling through texts before stopping and chuckling. 

Really, after EVERYTHING he told me, he said no, 'cause it was “for the best?” If I ever see that pea-brain, I’ll make him see sense XD

Pea-brain? That’s all she could muster? Ralsei knew Noelles' capacity for oddly endearing insults was usually quite high, but she was clearly out of practice.

”Pea-brain? I swear she called you an indecisive, know it all pri-“ Susie’s eyes widened, and she quickly drew her phone closer,  “Know what? Pea-brain sounds better anyways!”

Ralsei tilted his head and furrowed his brow before quickly diving from his chair for Susie’s phone. Surprisingly, Susie didn’t have all that great a grip on her phone and Ralsei snatched it easily. Before Susie had the time to pancake-ify him, he found the text she seemed keen on hiding.

yeah haha getin sick of his soup ear e or it e hell does he know? indcisive know it all pri-

Yeah, that’s enough of that. Her rather… unique spelling aside, it sucked to see. But it didn’t surprise him one bit, considering how vocal Susie’s been about Ralsei’s decision to ‘ban’ his friends from visiting, saying it was the worst thing to happen since the ham sandwich thing. He still found himself pouting nonetheless. 

”You really think I’m a know it all?”

“I-I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about dude.”

”Susie, don’t play dumb it’s not a good look for you.”

”Well I mean like I AM soooo dumb…” Susie said looking for any escape from her current predicament.

Ralsei, knowing Susie, gave her a stare like daggers. Harmless, fluffy daggers but daggers nonetheless.

”ALRIGHT! STOP WITH THE STARING ALREADY!” Susie groaned.

”So?”

”I mean like yeah, you’re a know it all! What does it matter anyway?”

”How am I a know it all?” Ralsei asked.

”Are we really doing this right now?”

”Of course! Answer the question!”

”Dude, seriously?” Susie’s frustration kept on growing.

”Just tell me!” The lonely prince demanded.

”Alright, fine, just drop it after alright? Geez,” Susie flopped herself onto the couch, staring at the ceiling, “I mean, you know a lot of useless facts, most of them are boring and you don’t really mention it a whole lot so it doesn’t bother me.” 

“Then why mention it to Noelle?”

”’Cause it DOES bother me when you think you know what’s best for me. We’re friends, I trust you, but you don’t know what’s best for me. I do. Goes for Kris too.”

”Wha- Susie, I’ve told you a million times before, I don’t want either of you to let this place distract you, not like it did Noelle.”

”Dude, what have either of us done to make you think we’d end up like that?” Susie asked.

The more Ralsei thought, the less satisfied he was with his answer. He knew he had good reason. He cared for them both deeply (even if his favourite was clear) and didn’t want either of them to feel hurt. But, he couldn’t think of anything either of them have done to warrant worry. 

Susie was brash sure, but she was so, so passionate when she cared. She always bounced back from the worst.

And Kris. Kris is just… so odd. Odd yet grounded.

He missed them deeply.

”I don’t know.” Ralsei replied.

Neither of them dared break the silence that followed his words.

It was starting to get late, Susie had been here most of the day and as much as Ralsei enjoyed the company of his friend, he also enjoyed sleep. He would be the first to admit he was a bit of a lazybones. He assumed Susie was the same in that regard, given how she nearly dragged him the entire way to Castle Towns' entrance. Thankfully he did manage to keep pace, if only barely. 

As Susie was about to step into the light her eyes lit up, nearly freezing in place. It gave Ralsei quite the startle.

”Hey, almost forgot, uh Kris wanted me to tell you something,” Susie said.

”Oh?” Ralsei said, his anticipation knew no bounds. 

“Yeah, just, uh, not word for word but, their feelings haven’t changed, they miss you.”

Ralsei smiled, “Ummm, tell them to visit when they’re comfortable. I miss them too.”

Susie nodded and quickly retreated into the light world. Ralsei lingered for a while, staring up at the portal he used to wait what felt like years for his friends to return. He always wondered what would happen if he stepped in the light. He was always too scared to try.

Snapping out of his daze, he felt an immense wave of fatigue. He started his walk back to the castle, bothered that all the Darkners seemed happier for Susie’s absence. His walk was rather uneventful, other than Queen’s attempt to sell him an acid pie. 

Inside the castle, he made his way to his room, passing by Kris’. The door still wouldn’t close, no magic seemed to hold it in place. If anything, it’s gotten worse, where before there was only a small crack, was a gap he could now fit his hand through. For whatever reason it made him smile.

Why the very thought of it made him sleep so soundly, he would never understand.

He wasn’t about to complain though. 

Chapter Text

The school hallways were always uncomfortable. But they never felt oppressive like this. After what Ralsei had said, and Susie relayed, they thought this would be easy. But after every step, the tightness in their chest, one they were all too familiar with, would grow greater. At the threshold between here and there, it was almost paralyzing. They were a step away from putting everything to rest and making things right. 

But they couldn’t do it. 

They slowly stepped back, the feeling in their chest receding. The school hallways seemed more welcoming than they did a minute ago. The light coming in through the windows being as inviting as after a school day. They quickly ran through the doors. 

The air was crisp and comfortably cold. Kris always liked Autumn. It marked the end of summer, inviting in the cold and unforgiving winds of winter. But they loved it because it also meant things could be born anew. When the Swallows arrive, heralding spring and the rebirth of the surrounding flora and awakening of fauna, it gives Kris hope. The prospect of a fresh start was on their mind a lot recently, for more reasons than one.

Adjusting to the slight chill, Kris started walking home. Though home was intent, it was never their only stop. As much disdain they have for the ‘old’ days, they did learn that they enjoyed talking to strangers, even if they would tell Kris to ‘change their diaper’ or whatever that strange politician rambled on about. The only place they actively avoided was that strange skeletons shop. They always swore their mother visited him a little too often. But nothing ever came of it. They didn’t mind his little brother though, he was probably the coolest guy they’d ever met. Everyone in Hometown wanted to be his friend, Kris was lucky to get in early. 

Kris walked towards QC’s, passing by Officer Undyne and Ms Alphys doing… whatever they were doing. From outside the diner looking in through the windows, they could see Pizza-pants, his actual name slipping from memory. But, as Kris surveyed the rest of the diner (mostly to see if the skeleton man was there) they did a double take. Sitting in one of the booths was Susie. It made no sense to them, Susie never having any money.  That is until they noticed a familiar set of antlers poking up out of a seat. 

She’s there with Noelle! Kris could feel themselves grinning yet their heart felt heavy, Noelle getting out was a rare occasion nowadays. Much less with Susie. Kris’ ogling was cut short, however, looking back in the diner they could see the antlers have now tilted slightly as if confused. Looking back at Susie, they were met with a stare that could win wars. Freezing in place for a brief moment, Kris quickly scurried off. 

They didn’t really have time to choose a direction when they scampered off. They had left the school with the express intent of getting home but somehow ended up in the stretch of forest far south of town. Though maybe they did choose to come here. Seeing Noelle and Susie, made them happy of course but it also made them… jealous? Not of either of them specifically of course, but rather what they were sharing together. But perhaps they were being presumptuous. Either way, ever since everything had happened, when those days became the ‘old’ days, they came down here when they needed time alone, yet wanted the reassurance of not being alone. It amazed them how good of a listener nature was.

Picking a secluded spot was simple enough, if there was one thing Hometown was good at, it was preserving nature. They started gathering leaves, easily enough given the season, to create a cushion to sit on while they leaned on their tree of choice. The birds' songs were as soothing as ever if quieter given most are in the midst of migration.

”Hey,” Kris spoke, “sorry about last time, Susie has her tendencies not much I can do about it.”

The birds kept on chirping and a squirrel ran up a tree.

”I’ve, uh, been better. A friend of mine, who, putting it mildly, is quite dear to me said some things that hurt a lot.”

The wind gently whistled amongst the trees.

”Worst part is that it wasn’t anything rude, mean or nasty in any sense of the word. Can’t be angry at him. Told me he loves me. I can’t be angry at that.”

They sighed. They could see a rabbit tilting its head, looking at them curiously from a distance.

”I think he doesn’t want his idea of selfishness to hurt me. But, if anything his selflessness has hurt me more.”

Kris paused for a brief moment, staring at the sky. The birds flew overhead, adding life to the picturesque sight above. 

“Sorry,” they said, “saw a couple of my friends hanging out. They always had kind of a thing. Susie said it wasn’t like that anymore, so maybe I’m just reading into it too much.” 

“I know I’m just jealous.”

”I, uh, tried visiting him today. Couldn’t do it. Don’t know why it’s so hard now. Things could be so much worse, and from what Susie told me he’d welcome me with open arms. Literally,” they chuckled.

“But I just can’t, I get this feeling in my chest. I know what it is but I don’t know why it’s happening. It just feels so silly.”

”I’m rambling aren’t I? Sorry.”

Kris had nothing else to say. Slowly slouching down the tree (scuffing their sweater) they eventually lay on the ground. The leaves they were sitting on surrounded them and provided comforting if little warmth. The sounds of the forest keep them company. It was soothing, if they brought a pillow they could probably fall asleep. 

Checking the time, it was almost 5:00. Toriel would kill them if they weren’t home before dark. Getting up, they patted their pants and arms, starting the walk home. They passed by the old bunker on their way home. Still unlocked from when they fell into the Dark World that took hold. The exact argument Susie and Noelle had that caused Susie to smash the lock, branded into their mind.

Eventually, they got home, though they did run into that skeleton man. Giving Toriel their regards (and a hug) they scurried up to their room, laying down in their bed. They felt a buzz in their pocket. 

that was nuthing btw

Susie. 

she wantd out of the hous

She wasn’t one to lie, if Susie said that was all it was, that’s all it was. Though, deep down Kris knew better. What Susie felt doesn’t go away so easily, no matter how hard one may try to suppress them.

Cool

Not much else needed to be said. 

The next morning Kris quickly rose out of bed. They were even quicker getting out of the house. They ran to the school, through the doors and down that oppressive hallway. The feeling in their chest was still there though it was less intense. They got closer to the edge, but they pulled back, stumbling, and their wallet fell out of their pocket, and down into the abyss. They quickly ran back outside.

They started their walk back home, hands in their pockets, head hung low.

”Couldn’t do it?”

Kris jumped and quickly turned around. Susie. Obviously. 

“Geez dude, trying to kill me?” Kris said.

”Nah, just kickstarting your heart, angel knows it needs it,” Susie chuckled.

”Screw off,” Kris laughed, “But yeah, couldn’t do it. Lost my wallet too.”

”You even like him still?”

"I... uh," Kris hadn't really thought about it if asked a year ago, they'd deny any feelings with conviction. But now? Now their feelings are undeniable.

”I do, evermore,” Kris said with conviction.

”Great, but uh, get I asked and all, didn't mean I wanted that theatre kid ass response.”

Kris laughed.

”Well Romeo, I’ll let him know, also grab your wallet while I’m down there, cool?”

”Cool.”

Chapter Text

He was staring up the beam towards the world above. It was an old habit he thought he rid himself of after they’d stopped the Roaring. He did, for a time, but old habits die hard. Though he couldn’t deny that it was different now, at the very least the reason he waited changed. Before it was loneliness, even after the Dark World gained new denizens he found it hard to make friends, most Darkners weren’t as personable as his Lightner friends. There were only so many recycled puns he could take, and the Darkners from the skeleton man’s shop knew quite a few. Now, however, he waited because of the feeling in his chest, the pining that overtook him. He wouldn’t deny his feelings from before, but never before had his heart felt so light yet heavy. 

He sighed deeply, looking at the ground before, preparing to walk back home and undoubtedly clean or fix whatever mess Lancer made. But, seemingly out of nowhere, a familiar pouch landed in front of him. It was Kris’s wallet. The Deltarune embroidered on its face gave it away. Well, that and a picture of Kris looking rather unhappy inside. It was odd seeing how they looked in the Light World, though they were still as alluring as he’d remembered. Their hair was unkempt but it suited them. And their eyes, as red as rubies, their beauty was unmatched. 

He felt a pang of guilt once he realized what he was doing. He missed them desperately, but it was no reason to go digging through their wallet. Especially when he realized if their wallet was here, they were at the entrance to this place, or at least they had been a moment ago. His curiosity would get the better of him, however, when he saw a photo he thought they would’ve destroyed it. Especially since he destroyed his copy.

It was in Asgore’s flower shop, Kris talked fondly of him despite what their mother wanted them to think. The Dark World there was by far the prettiest. The fields of flowers, their beautiful colours spanning who knows how far, perfectly contrasted with the picturesque cloudy blue sky. When Kris thought back on it, they would always tell him that’s what the Light World looked like most days. Minus the flowers. 

He’d been left alone with Kris again, thinking back that happened often. The flowers that surrounded them were pink and red, their petals forming a heart. All around them were butterflies, which accurately described the feeling that was in his chest. 

Kris… hey Kris…

It's beautiful here, isn’t it? Your dads really talented! Think he would mind teaching me a few things?

Kris just shrugged.

Doubt he could teach me anything you couldn’t. I mean, it’s only been a few days and I’ve learned so much about what being ‘Ralsei-like’ means, and so much of that has been because of you…

He remembers the blush on his face vividly. Especially when ‘Kris’ took his hands.

I’ve been thinking about the time we get to spend together… a lot. Whenever I think of you I…

The breath he took felt like aeons at the time. It was silly to think back on it now.

I… I’ve been meaning to tell you that… I… I… I think I’m in-

He didn’t get to finish his sentence, ‘Kris’ pulling him in for a kiss. He still gets flustered thinking about it now. How he wished it ended there. Something was made clear after that moment. When he was pushed away, he’d seen Kris in a way he’d never had before, seen an emotion he’d never seen them express before. Their eyes were full of fear and helplessness. It was then he understood none of it was real. It was unfortunate that yet another conveniently placed camera captured the moment, the kiss that was forced upon Kris.

Kris… I…

I’m sorry.

They were words they didn’t hear. They ran off as soon as they could. He didn’t blame them.

Though, the fact that they kept the picture confused him. Perhaps some things were better left unknown.

He was snapped out of his thoughts when Susie landed in front of him. She promptly asked for the wallet. He begrudgingly obliged. Though, not before he could sneak the photo and that picture of Kris under his scarf. 

Susies visit was uneventful. Though it was nice hearing from Kris, even if it was second-hand. He was glad that Kris didn’t tell her what exactly what was in their wallet, or he’d have been pancake-ified once again. Though he knew she would be back before the day ended. He framed the photo of Kris and left it on their nightstand. He dusted it frequently. The other picture, well, it was too conflicting to frame. He hid it under his desk, occasionally pulling it out to look at it. 

Lancers' shenanigans had seemingly died down, or at least were less destructive than before. He enjoyed the time for himself he rarely had. He’d been meaning to visit an old friend for a while now, but there was always a destroyed wall or missing roof that took priority. It didn’t help that the trek there was quite long. After the Dark World expanded, some missed the privacy a small town allowed and moved closer to the outskirts of Castle Town. It also helped that the view was brilliant. At times you could catch glimpses of worlds that have long since been closed. Whether that was sad or not was entirely up to the witness. The thought aside, he found the correct path and started his journey.

The cobblestones that paved the many paths to and from Castle Town were run down, he’d have to give them a proper glow-up soon. The moss that covered them irked him, but he decided he’d just contract Kris and Susie to 'clean' it up the next time he saw them both. Or maybe he’d just leave it be, it gave the area character. It also fits the au-naturel theme of Seam's lonely little ‘seap.’ Ralsei appreciated the plain look of the place, it made walking in even more exciting, knowing that the inside was full of wonders. Perhaps Seam understood this too, the exterior wasn’t always so dull. Even if the name tried its hardest to say the contrary. It wasn’t long before he reach the little ‘seap.’

Opening the plain wooden door, he felt a smile instantly form on his face. No matter how many times he visited, each always felt like the first. Ancient relics, and some more recent ones, surrounded them. An entire section dedicated to the things found on his adventures with Kris and Susie took centre. Though the clear favourite were the eight Shadow Crystals, barely visible to the naked eye displayed directly behind the counter. Despite the cost to obtain them, he was proud of them. He expected Seam to be sitting at the counter, but he was nowhere to be seen. 

“Seam?” He yelled.

He could hear the faint sounds of tools being set down and the gentle pitter-patter of the old man’s walk.

”Ah, hello little prince,” Seam said.

”Seam! How’ve you been?”

”Splendid, what brings you here? Biscuits or hints?”

”What? I can’t just visit for the fun of it?”

Seam raised an eyebrow.

”Ha! Both, if it wouldn’t be a bother!” Ralsei exclaimed, biscuits appearing in front of him, they were chocolate butterscotch. They were the only Seam bothered baking now, anything else and Susie would scarf them down in an instant. Ralsei grabbed the one he fancied and took a nibble.

”Satisfactory? Yes? Wonderful, now to business! Tell me about the feud between you and the blue one,” Seam asked

”It’s not a feud it’s- wait how did you-“

”Ha ha ha… I have my ways little prince, but if it isn’t a feud what is it?”

Ralsei let out a long sigh, “A mutual pining I think.”

“Ah, I see! So why not just… convene?”

”I’m an idiot.”

Seam let out a soft chuckle, “You two remind me of Jevil and me, a long time ago.”

”I figured you two were closer than you let on, not to sound presumptuous that is. I would’ve asked, but well, there were bigger things going on,” Ralsei said.

”Much bigger things, it was darker then.”

Ralsei took another bite of his biscuit, “You said me and Kris remind you of… you?”

”Yes, we had our troubles in the beginning, I had my beliefs. ‘Course they managed to show me the light, then lost themself in it, but I think you’re familiar with that part,” Seam said, pawing for a biscuit of his own.

”How did you two work it out?”

”Ah, love has its ways little prince, can’t you feel it?”

”I do, I just, we had this friend, you met her, uh, Noelle,” Seam nods as Ralsei continues, “After everything happened she had a rough time, understandably of course. But I haven’t seen her since then, last Kris told me she was kinda just, broken? I think that’s the way they put it.”

”And you don’t want that for them correct?”

”Yeah.”

”So you don’t trust them?” Seam said, leaning on the counter separating the two.

”What? No, I-“

”It’s okay to admit it.”

Ralsei was silent, and let out a deep sigh.

”No, I trust them. I’m just not sure it’s actually them.”

Seam smiled and lowered himself to Ralsei’s level.

”Their wallet fell down here yesterday, in it, I found a picture of us from a while ago. It was romantic, a field of flowers,” Ralsei said, taking a moment to catch his breath.

”I started to tell them how much they meant to me, how much they’ve helped me. Before I could tell them how I felt, they kissed me. But it wasn’t them, it was the thing controlling them, they look mortified and it was my fault! A camera took a picture of it. I thought they would’ve destroyed their copy, I did.”

“Ah, I see. Have you considered that, maybe, that was the start of it?” Seam asked.

”What?”

”Oh, this handsome, young prince, forced into a kiss with the person they loved, and instead of being overjoyed, is regretful? Willing to put their feelings aside and help mend his friend's trauma? I know it may seem cliché, something out of a fairytale, but people can change, for better or for worse. Perhaps they were forced to keep it when they weren’t in control, but everyone saw them obtain freedom, they’re in control and they’ve still kept it. They’ve had how long to get rid of it? From the moment they were freed, they could’ve and yet, here we are.”

”I don’t know Seam, it’s just so-“

”Get over yourself! Do you think that you’re taking advantage of some fragile soul? That you need to be better? Why don’t you just have faith that they’re capable? They are strong! Cunning! Everything they were put through would’ve broken others, the eight crystals behind me can attest to that! And yet here they are! Strong, smart, compassionate, sane and in love! They do not need your protection! They need you!”

Ralsei was stunned, bewildered and absolutely flabbergasted. But he also recognized Seam was right. How wrong he was to assume that Kris was incapable of caring for theirself, despite everything pointing to the contrary. He took the rest of his biscuit and scarfed it down. He could feel his chest tightening.

”I apologize for the outburst. You two really do remind me of what Jevil and I had.” Seam said, calmly.

“Yeah, okay, uh, you’re fine and I really messed up. I’m- thank you Seam, for the treats, hospitality, everything but, I need to go. You’ve given me a lot to think about, and I thank you, dearly.”

”Always, dear friend.” Seam smiled.

Ralsei bowed on his way out and gently closed the door behind him. Head slumped low, he started the trek home.

The walk home was uneventful, though he did stop by the stage and listen to what was on the list. He left a little after the music shifted to tunes heard from some of the later Dark Worlds. He also bumped into Lancer, seemingly beginning to start that cleaning Ralsei considered, licking the moss on the cobblestones in front of the castle. Seems he decided to give up destruction and lend a hand. On his way to his room, he took note that Kris’s door was almost fully open now. He smiled at the discovery.

In his room, he grabbed the photo he hid under his desk. He flipped it over and wrote a message on the back:

Thought you would’ve gotten rid of this. Do visit soon. Please.

-Rals

It wasn’t long before Susie came knocking for the rest of Kris’s possessions. He managed to convince her to let him keep the portrait of Kris. He also asked her not to read the back of the photo, to which she snorted and rolled her eyes, but made it obvious she wouldn’t. She left soon after. 

With the day done, he took one last look at Kris’s portrait, set his glasses on the nightstand and with a smile on his face, drifted to sleep.

Chapter Text

“You know, it’s just a skip and a hop from here to the school. We could go after we’re finished eating if you like,” Noelle said.

Susie shifted to look at Kris. 

“Maybe,” they said as they absentmindedly read the message on the back of that photo Susie returned. She was happy that she was helping, and that her help required less talking and more fetch-questing.

“Though the thought of it is already making my chest tight,” Kris said, softly chuckling.

”Well, I know I would like to visit sometime soon. I have some words for pea-brain down there, and you’d make a good chauffeur,” Noelle laughed.

”I don’t know if, uh, ‘pea-brain’ would appreciate that,” Susie said.

Noelle removed her gaze from Kris and laid it upon Susie, “Why?”

Susie… didn’t think that far ahead, “Well, I… he, uh…”

”You know how he is,” Kris interjected, elbowing Susie in the side, “He himself probably wouldn’t mind, but some of the Darkners are still afraid of Susie and he can’t stand that. Drives him insane. And… well,” Kris shrugged.

Susie rubbed the spot where she was viciously attacked, refraining from retaliating when she processed everything Kris had said.

”Oh. It’s nice of him to think of me, but I’d still like to visit, if need be we can grab that disguise I made when Queen was being… Queen,” Noelle took a sip of her hot cocoa (with extra candy cane) and smiled at Susie. 

Susie barely noticed, Kris’s elbow attack seemingly scored a critical. She smiled back, on what felt like muscle memory before correcting herself. She took nearly a fistful of the mush she made by mixing everything on her plate with mayo and devoured it, smiling at Noelle with a mouth full of goop. Noelle chuckled.

“You know what? We’ll go, not today though. Tomorrow’s easier,” Kris said, scooping eggs off their plate with their (comically sized) spoon.

”But you’ll have to give me and him some time first.”

”Well duh, I’m not stupid,” Noelle exasperated, “Where’d you get that spoon?” Noelle asked, confused.

”Oh, Dad got into metalworking after everything in his shop happened,” Kris shrugged and flipped the picture back over. Susie rolled her eyes, that poor picture must’ve been ready to throw up by now. 

“He got really into making spears for whatever reason, can’t really complain they sell well and he’s doing better financially. Chief Undyne really likes them, he made her a full suit of armour and everything. Goes around calling herself the ‘Spear of Justice’,”  Kris chuckled.

”So… your dad made it for you?” Susie asked.

”Oh, uh, yeah.”

“Coulda just said so, dumbass,” she snorted.

”Think he could make me a fork? Dad used to make this really nice salad and the only thing that could make it better is a bigger food-per-bite ratio,” Noelle said.

”Yeah, I’m sure he wouldn’t mind,” Kris said.

Susie felt a malicious smile slowly grow on her face, “Think he could reforge his marriage?”

”Susie!” Noelle quiet-yelled, laughing uncomfortably.

”I mean, maybe not the marriage thing, but Mom is at least friendly towards Dad now, we all have dinner on Sundays again. So, yeah? Kind of I guess. Sure as hell couldn’t make you less of an orphan,” Kris said.

Susie had to keep herself from laughing, loudly at least, she looked over at Noelle whose jaw was dropped.

”You two are horrible!” Noelle exclaimed. 

“We’re not horrible, she’s an orphan, and I’m a child in a broken home,” Kris said with a sly smile.

”You know what I mean!” Noelle said, almost with a harumph.

Suddenly, it hit Susie just how long it’s been a while since they all just sat together. Eating or otherwise. There were times when Berdly would join them, but Kris put an end to that rather quickly. After she put an end to his borderline harassment (and Noelle did the same) he shifted his attention over to Kris. She still remembers the first time he made a move, Kris nearly burst a blood vessel and burst one in Berdlys nose. Beak? She didn’t know what to call it. When that didn’t stop him, Kris pulled him aside after class when everyone had left. When Kris emerged from that room, Berdly followed looking as if he had been frozen solid and was clearly very afraid. How they got him to shift his sights back on her must’ve been amazing, if annoying. She still hasn’t managed to get Kris to spill the beans. 

While her thoughts were on beans, she managed to find a handful in her pile of food goop. She was just gonna get her usual, but she decided to try something new. She regretted it. Seemed that the people with the funny accents Kris would make at tea parties really couldn’t cook. Beans on toast? For breakfast? Are they even people? Alas, it was nothing gross, disgusting mayo couldn’t fix.

”Festivals soon, your brother coming again?” Susie asked, mouth full of food goop.

Kris took a moment to respond, mouth full of food and attention on Ralsei’s message, “Yeah,” they said with their mouth full. 

They took another moment to finish their food, “Sorry, uh, yeah, yeah. He should be here. Said he met someone at school last I talked to him, wants me to meet them.”

Noelle perked up, “Oooo, they got a name?”

Kris shrugged.

”Well, I’m gonna need a name. Does he still go by godof-“

”Don’t. Say it. Still can’t stand his username,” Kris sighed, “But yeah, send me any of the sweet sweet detes he gives you,” Kris said.

”Deal.”

Susie started playing footsie with herself, she’d never really been the third wheel before. She kind of enjoyed it. Free food was always nice and the conversation had less weight, not needing to always chime in to keep it alive.

”You bringing Rals, Kris?” Noelle asked.

”Uh…” 

“Can he even come up here?” Susie asked.

”I… don’t know. I assume no, otherwise he would be here with us right?” Kris said.

Noelle took another sip of her cocoa, ”Sure, but like, have you ever tried? Opening fountains doesn’t count.”

Susie felt Kris’s gaze shift to her, as her own shifted to lock eyes, both dumbfounded that they haven’t even bothered to try.

”I mean he’s never even tried and all the other Darkners were just random things up here, so…” Kris said.

”Yeah, but he’s weird,” Noelle laughed.

”She’s gotcha there Kris,” Susie said, shrugging.

”Guess I’ll have to ask him about it tomorrow. Fingers-crossed I guess? I don’t know. I’m not getting my hopes up,” Kris sighed, grabbing a spoonful of hash-browns which Susie had been eyeing for a while. Damn that oversized yet enticing spoon.

Noelle played with her food, resting her head on her hand, “Guess I’ll be going alone…”

Susie, once again wide-eyed, decided to act distracted by her food, but she felt Kris look at her.

”Sucks to suck I guess,” Kris half-mumbled.

The long, uncomfortable silence was almost unbearable, “I’ll go with you, just don’t make it weird,” Susie mumbled.

”Really?” Noelle almost shot out of her chair.

”Yeah, yeah,” Susie said, poking an odd-looking baked bean.

“So it’s a triple-date!” Noelle squealed.

”Not a date,” Susie groaned.

”And only a triple if Rals can get up here,” Kris said.

”Let me have my moment!!” Noelle exclaimed.

Kris rolled their eyes, leaving money on the table for all their food, as well as a hefty tip.

”Where do you even get all that money?” Susie asked.

”Between couch cushions,” Kris said without a hint of irony, “Think you could get us into the construction zone, Noelle?”

“Yeah, if we’re going triples we might as well scout out the place,” Susie added.

”Guys, just cause my mom-“ Noelle cut herself off when she saw the look she was getting from Susie and Kris.

”Alright, grab your things.” 

She didn’t know what to expect, she skipped all of the town's festivals after what happened at the first one she attended. It seemed pretty tame, though even she would admit it would probably look nice at night with all the lights. She already found herself attracted to the concession stands, disappointed that there was nothing she could raid. Not even deep-fried butter, which seemed a bit TOO much even for her, was there for the munching. When she managed to peel her gaze off the food, she saw that Kris and Noelle had wandered ahead without her. She quickly caught up.

”No, no, he said that he wished he-“ Kris was cut off by a punch to the shoulder.

”Leaving without me asshats?” Susie snapped.

”Oh, we just- sorry.” 

“Better be, walked right past the concession,” Susie scoffed, “Anything here even new?”

”Oh, yeah there’s always something new. Think they’re doing a field of flowers this year, Kris’s dad had an abundance of the pinks and reds, so why not use them,” Noelle said.

”Aren’t they redoing that tunnel of love this year?” Kris asked. 

“You feeling nostalgic?” Susie snorted. 

“I guess, would be nice to have that moment with Rals and actually have a say this time.”

”Sorry to disappoint, but no. The field is taking its place. Apparently, there’s more to it but I was only told about the flowers by your dad. It’s supposed to be nauseatingly romantic,” Noelle swooned.

”Ever wonder why festivals always have an obligatory romance attraction?” Susie asked.

“No,” Kris and Noelle answered in unison.

Susie just mouthed ‘okay’ to herself and kept on thinking about how lame this place is.

”Who’d they get for the concert this year?” Kris asked.

“Don’t know, still hoping for that Green Day concert that’ll never happen but a girl can dream,” Noelle kicked a rock.

Kris smiled, “They’ll hear you crying aloud eventually. All the way across town even.”

”Shut up,” Noelle said, stifling a laugh.

Susie wasn’t paying attention to their conversation anymore, the lameness of the place took over her consciousness completely.

”This place sucks,” Susie groaned.

”Didn’t YOU ask to come here?” Noelle said.

”No, I simply heard Kris say something that sounded fun, and mindlessly agreed.”

”True,” Kris said.

”I mean, like, when someone says construction, I think danger. Big hammers, nails, jackhammers waiting to be stolen and forklifts for joyriding. Not whatever this is,” Susie said, falling into a slouch.

”Dude, it’s like 7 am, they start at noon. That stuff's way too expensive to leave sitting there. Most of the time.” Kris said.

”Well, this place sucks and I'm leaving. Have fun talking to whatshisname tomorrow.”

Susie started the walk home alone, a long, arduous and boring walk that would surely be the end of her. She severely overestimated how much more boring this place would be walking through it alone. Luckily, Noelle appeared next to her seemingly out of thin air.

“Hey!”

”Gah! Where’d the hell you come from?” Susie nearly screamed.

”From where you left us!”

”Where’d Kris go?” Susie asked.

”Home, said their mom was making pie and they needed to sit in bed and panic about tomorrow,” Noelle answered.

“Pie? That hoarding-“ Susie mumbled, “Anyways, couldn’t walk home alone or somethin?”

”You could say that. More wanted to ask if you’re really okay with going to the carnival with me.”

”Yeah, not one to lie like that,” Susie shrugged.

”Susie, it’s just-“

”Dude, don’t make it weird. Just doing it 'cause triples sounds fun.”

”Cool,” Noelle said, visibly disappointed.

The rest of their walk was silent, Susie appreciated silence sometimes. Noelle started violently shivering at one point, to which she gave Noelle her jacket. She always wondered why she got cold so easily if she liked Christmas so much. Eventually, Noelle went her separate way and she was again left alone. She wasn’t far from home, though sometimes it felt like the town spanned a few hundred kilometres across. Eventually, she stood right outside her door, but as her hand twisted the doorknob she decided to double back towards the school and down into Castle Town.

She looked around for Ralsei, careful to avoid the most fearful of the Darkners. It wasn’t long before she found Lancer, laughing at the Prince who seemed to be balancing multiple pieces of pottery, and barely managing. He held one in each hand with another on his left bicep (if you could even consider it a bicep), another on his right foot and knee and the last precariously perched on one of his horns. Everything looked rather valuable, she found herself resisting the urge to disrespect the pottery.

”Look, I don’t wanna know,” she said, pointing at the pottery on Ralsei’s horn,  “But, uh, since I’ve been playing personal messenger for both of you dweebs thought I’d let you know Kris is coming tomorrow.”

She was surprised she didn’t even get a thank you. But Ralsei’s face said it all, she snorted when she saw the look on the poor boy's face, eyes wide with joy and terror. Whatever value the pottery had Ralsei seemingly forgot sprinting towards the castle, probably to pick a dress and prepare his makeup. She personally thought he needed to include more spikes in his dresses. She also revelled in the previously intact pottery being ever so slightly less intact. Giving Lancer a high five and biting pieces of the broken crockery, Susie eventually left for home.

When she made it home she kicked her feet up and watched violent movies, fingers crossed that everything would go well between Kris and Ralsei. She had very few doubts, but you never know.

For now, however, she would simply count the days as they pass and as the festival drew closer.

Chapter Text

He didn’t know how much longer he could stay like this. He hadn’t gotten a good night's sleep and now he found himself stuck covered in precious vases. He felt himself slowly losing his balance, struggling to regain it for the sake of the pottery. Lancer's laughter did nothing to aid him. To his surprise, Susie soon appeared from around the corner. He had hoped for a helping hand but all he got was a confused look.

”Look, I don’t wanna know,” she said, pointing at the pottery on his horn,  “But, uh, since I’ve been playing personal messenger for both of you dweebs thought I’d let you know Kris is coming tomorrow.”

They were coming? Tomorrow???

Kris! They were coming! Tomorrow! But that was so soon and he looked like a wet dog! He was overjoyed, but he couldn’t be more terrified. He didn’t care about the pottery anymore, he needed to get ready! He nearly passed out sprinting all the way to the castle. He took a seat at his desk, resting from the long run. 

He needed to pick a dress and do his makeup! He needed to tidy the castle! And stop neglecting to reserve his spot at the café! He would need to start immediately to make sure everything was perfe- 

*THUMP*

Unfortunately, he didn’t realize how sleep-deprived he truly was.

He awoke expecting an hour to have passed, to his surprise (and dismay) Queen informed him he had slept for nearly twenty-three hours and Kris always tended to come during the early hours. He panicked, he had barely any time at all to prepare himself and the castle. He quickly browsed his wardrobe before landing on the favourite of his dresses, despite his unwillingness to wear it regularly. As for makeup, well, he had barely enough time to apply his eyeliner, much less anything fancy. Still, he tried his damnedest to look his best for them, even if he did nearly blind himself in the process.

He had finished with barely any time to spare. Quickly, he tidied up the dirtiest nooks of the castle, as well as running over to Swatch to reserve his usual table once again (nearly begging in the process). Making one last stop in his room for final touch-ups, he ran towards the beam of light to the world above where he waited. 

And waited.

And waited.

For nearly four hours he stood there. Before the fifth could come, he slowly walked back to his room, severely underwhelmed and kicking any rock that dare crossed his path. He toyed with the idea that Susie was pulling one of her pranks on him. But he knew that was too cruel even for her. Kris probably just got cold feet like he probably would’ve. At least that’s what he hoped. If Susie was pranking him he’d have to go through the trouble of getting her back. Though he would still need Kris for that. It was an art form he was left severely lacking in skill. Watching a true master such as Kris was always fun for him, especially when they used an idea of his.

He sat on his bed, grabbing the framed picture of Kris from his desk. Somehow, his eyelids felt heavy and he nearly slumped over. However, the loud sound of the castle door opening and the familiar rattle of engraved armour woke him up in an instant.

They were finally here. He internally apologized to Susie for his assumption (though he’d still need to get her back for the copious other pranks she’s pulled, with Kris’s help).

His heart nearly in his throat, he burst out of his room intent on meeting them halfway, nearly tripping and chipping a horn. Running down the hallway, his excitement grew with every step he took. His excitement, however, would be his downfall. Reaching the flight of stairs at the end of the hall in his blind fervour he missed the first step, the first of many. As he tumbled down (painfully) he could hear the faint sound of rattling armour grow closer, though mostly muffled by the sounds of the many new scuffs, scrapes and wrinkles he and his outfit had been obtaining. When he finally reached the bottom, after what felt like years, he landed face down once again rendered a pancake, this time courtesy of his own special recipe. Moments later the sound of armour stopped right in front of him. Slowly flopping himself over, he managed a wobbly smile, looking at the object of his affection who looked at him with a sly grin. He wasn’t surprised when they started laughing, he probably deserved it after all.

“Looks like I don’t need Susie to end up like this now…” he chuckled as he groaned in pain.

”Oh, sorry. Didn’t think Catti was being serious about that stuff,” Kris said.

”… what?”

”She showed me some spells, mostly stuff to give people bad luck, karma, that kind of thing,”  they said.

”I… see. And how do you go about casting these spells?” He asked, stretching on the ground.

”Sacrifices. Most bloody.”

”Kris, no one’s hurt right?” 

“Of course not! Berdly didn’t feel a thing! … mostly,” Kris laughed.

It was then he realized they’d been messing with him. He wanted to lecture them on how hurting people was never okay, even as a joke and how they should never talk about sacrificing someone and that casting magic to cause someone harm is never okay (even if he knew he probably deserved it). Right now, however, he couldn’t care less. He laughed, even.

”I’ve missed you,” he cooed, arms outstretched towards the human who towered over him. 

He felt their hands in his before slowly being lifted up into a warm, familiar embrace that he missed dearly, “I’ve missed you too, Pansei,” Kris said gently.

They were silent for a moment, he squeezed himself closer to Kris, nuzzling their shoulder taking in everything he had denied himself all that time ago. 

“I’m sorry,” he whispered.

”I know, don’t be,” Kris said.

He squeezed them even tighter, “Not just for that, I tried to make everything perfect for you. In the end, I barely managed to get myself ready and, well, you saw how that turned out.” 

He softly whined as he felt Kris pull away from their embrace, though it was quickly amended when he felt them rubbing a scuff on his cheek, looking him directly in the eyes,

”This is perfect.”

It took him a moment to realize what they had said and another would pass before he practically threw himself around them, returning to the embrace he had been oh so cruelly ripped from. Eventually, they found themselves in Kris’s room, Queen walking in on them in the hallway and poking fun at them, though they could both sense she was happy for them. Ralsei also took note that, by the power of whatever black magic possesses it, Kris’s door now functioned as intended, perhaps his tumble shook the right cobblestone. Lying in Kris’s bed, hand-in-hand, they enjoyed each other's silent company, both happy that they got over the small road bump. Ralsei found himself chuckling.

”Thought you were gonna be here hours ago, panicked to get ready and everything,” he said. 

“Hm?” they mumbled, seemingly snapped out of a daze.

”You usually come so early, I just thought today would be the same,” he yawned.

”Susie tell you I was coming?”

He nodded.

”Figures, was wondering how you knew, was planning on surprising you,” they said, “But, uh, I was ready hours ago, was waiting on someone else.” 

“Oh? Who?”

”You still got that cardboard box Noelle made in the Cyberworld?” Kris asked.

”I think it’s lying around somewhere around here, why?”

”You might want to grab it, just in case,” they said, squeezing his hand. 

A simple ‘oh’ was all he could muster when he realized who it was.

”Are you sure this is a good idea? I don’t want her to-“

”She’ll be fine, really, she’s been acting like herself again and I’ve known her long enough to know when she’s faking,” Kris said.

“Do you know what changed?” He asked.

All he got in response was a head-shaking no and an over-exaggerated shrug. The rest of their walk was silent. Ralsei could feel the anxiety in his chest rise, though he could also feel excitement once again building, this time he would be more cautious. He trusted that Noelle knew what she might be getting into, given how all the other Darkners regarded Susie, but more importantly, he trusted Kris. When they reached the beam of light, Kris waved, assuring him that they would be back in a jiffy. Moments would pass with nary a murmur, they were taking longer than he anticipated and he feared Noelle got cold feet. Before he could truly start to worry, Kris returned shortly, followed by a familiar reindeer in a snow-white dress that he always wished he could get for himself. Noelle hadn’t changed a bit, her soft smile lit up his heart and filled him with the warmth that he remembered from the moments they had shared. Perhaps on instinct, he wrapped his arms around her as she did him, it was their way of saying hello. He already wanted to start talking to her about his little (massive) crush on a certain human, though he guessed that would be redundant now. 

“How have you been?” He asked, pulling away from their hug.

”I’ve been great, pea-brain.”

”I, umm, have a table at Swatch’s, if you’d prefer to talk there,” he said. 

Noelle simply nodded. He would admit, he wanted to get the worst of it over with, he had no doubt that the Darkners would regard her with disgust. Moving to the Café was just the easiest way of getting it out of the way, besides, there was a tasty treat at the end! With each step towards the town, he could feel his heart pump faster. When they arrived, he had expected her mere presence to cause everyone to vacate the area, to his surprise this wasn’t the case. Not one of them seemed to pay her any mind, in fact, the ones who did seemed to treat her with a warmth they had usually reserved for him and Kris. It was a surprise, but not an unpleasant one. 

Arriving at the Café, Kris had offered to grab them all something just like they did all that time ago. Ralsei once again asked to be surprised, though he already knew what he was getting, Noelle asked for anything with peppermint. Ralsei guided Noelle to his table, careful to guide her so as not to trip over any Darkners.

”So, is everything like you remember?” He asked.

”Yes, better in a way too,” Noelle said.

”Oh? How so?”

”Every time I was down here it was because something big was happening. Now I just get to enjoy everything, I’ve always wanted to see what a big city has to offer. This place isn’t as big as one of the cities, but it’s still busier than Hometown. So, it’ll do!” She laughed.

”Does that mean I’ll be seeing you more?” He asked.

”As much as you’ll have me,” Noelle said, “Anyways, how do you feel now that you two are finally together?”

”Like everything is right in the world. I feel like I’m whole again,” he answered without hesitation.

”Good.”

A moment later Kris arrived, smiling and with their drinks, they took a seat next to Ralsei. Whatever they got Noelle smelt overwhelmingly sweet, and of peppermint. 

Ralsei took a sip of his tea, nearly burning his tongue, “I thought I’d have more to ask you, but I don’t. I’m just glad that you’re here again, it feels complete down here knowing that you’re okay.”

Noelle smiled, clearly touched by his words. She took a sip of her drink, unfazed by the smell of pure sugar in the air.

”Oh! How’s Susie?” He teased.

”Good I think, she’s going to the festival with me which is nice. Though not in THAT way if that’s what you wanted to know,” Noelle said, pointing at both him and Kris.

”Is it really that time of year again? It feels like the festival happens every other day up there,” Ralsei said.

Kris put down their cup, seemingly having chugged whatever they got, “Tell me about it, though you and I can talk about that later.”

Noelle finished her drink, how these two could drink so fast is something Ralsei would never understand. To not seem like the odd one in the group, he quickly downed his own drink.

”Anyways, where’d you wanna go first Noelle?” Kris asked.

”I… don’t know, any suggestions?” Noelle said looking at Ralsei.

”Seam’s! You’d love it there, he has all these little knickknacks and treasures, some of it ours!” Ralsei exclaimed.

Noelle stood up, “Then what’re we waiting for? Let’s go!”

The rest of his day was spent helping Kris show Noelle around. It was nice, he doesn’t recall a time when it was just the three of them, Susie was always present when Noelle was around. He was grateful that she wasn’t here, as bad as that sounds. He enjoyed seeing just how good of friends Kris and Noelle were, whenever Susie was around Kris and Ralsei would usually just be third-wheeling. By the day's end, they had been all over Castle Town, their last stop being the dojo. This time around Kris was a bit more cautious, coming out with nary a scrape, perhaps they were trying to impress him (they succeeded). Eventually, Noelle returned home, reassuring Ralsei she would return whenever she could. He started walking back to the castle with Kris when he remembered something.

”You said you wanted to talk about the festival with me?” He asked.

”Yeah, but my room first m’kay?” 

He nodded before sprinting towards the castle getting a head start in a race Kris wasn’t even aware they were participating in. Nonetheless, they joined in and in the end, proved victorious. They sat on their bed, patting a spot next to them and inviting him to sit. He gladly obliged.

”So, your festival is soon?” He asked.

“Yeah,” they nodded, “Asriel should be there with someone new. Way he said it I’m pretty sure they’re, well…”

He smiled, it was good knowing he wasn’t the only one finding happiness. 

“And since Noelle’s going with Susie, Noelle wanted to do triples,” Kris said.

”Triples?” He said, confused.

”Triple… date,” they said. Their tone indicated they knew what was coming.

”Kris…”

”Can’t we at least try?” They asked.

”That’s not how it works.”

”How do you know? I mean I know what happens to the others, but you’re… special. You always have been,” they said, squeezing his hand.

Ralsei shook his head, “I don’t know, Kris.”

”You said…” they paused for a brief moment, “When I came down here all that time ago and told you how I felt, you said you didn’t want me to lose myself to this, that it was all just an illusion. But maybe it doesn’t need to be an illusion, if there’s even the slightest chance that you stay the same up there, isn’t it worth taking that chance?” 

He felt the reassuring squeeze on their hand grow tighter.

”I…” he sighed, “I’m afraid Kris. I’ve always wanted to see what it’s like up there, but knowing what happens to the others? The fear is nearly paralyzing. The thought of one moment being me, then the next I’m merely an object? I can’t imagine it, even in my worst nightmares. Though, I suppose you’d, well… you know.” 

Kris was silent, pulling him into a hug and resting their head on his shoulder and vice versa, all that filled the room was the sound of their gentle breathing.

”I’ll be with you every step of the way, no matter what happens,” they cooed, “I love you.”

He took a moment, taking in those sweet, sweet words, they never said they loved him before. They were the words that he had longed for since he had met them, the words he thought impossible after… the words he never knew he truly needed. They were short but sweet, spoken with a quiet passion he would never forget, his squeeze around them tightened, he feared he was suffocating them, and with teary eyes he said,

”Okay.”

Chapter Text

The day had come.

Ralsei would admit that even with Kris by his side he could barely contain his fear. So much could go wrong and very little could go right. But he had to try, if not for his own desire, he would do it for them. Kris hadn’t arrived yet, which would be unusual had it not been only a bit past midnight. He couldn’t sleep, it required too much time in silence where he could think about what was coming. Instead, he prepared. Not for failure, mind you, but for success. He made sure his dress was well ironed, makeup was perfect and fur as clean as could be. As for the lack of sleep? Nothing a little magic caffeine couldn’t do. He prayed that something in the castle would cross paths with Lancer, at least that way he would have something to keep his mind pre-occupied. No such thing ever happened, the next few hours were spent quaking in fear. He supposed he should apologize to other Darkners for putting them through this when their Dark Worlds were closed, though he doubted that they remembered any of it.

Eventually, the time came and he heard the familiar rattle of Kris’s armour, somehow pleasant yet foreboding. Before they could open his door he quickly did his final touch-ups. The thought that all this work would most likely be for nothing disappointed him. The thought that his fear was misplaced was definitely more comforting. Moments later Kris opened his door, quickly making their way towards him, offering him their hand without saying a word. He nodded and gripped their hand tight. 

Kris wasted no time in leading him to the light, he could tell they were confident that this would work, it was reassuring. 

Standing in front of the sparkling entrance between worlds, his legs felt like jelly. Kris was the only thing keeping him from falling, which wasn’t a new thing. Kris gently squeezed his hand, he would’ve crushed theirs had they not been wearing gauntlets and with merely a single step forward Kris led him into the light. It was slow at first, the rise upwards, it didn’t last. The sensation of zipping upwards was something he would never forget, he really wished Kris mentioned the tingling sensation on the way up. Then, in what felt like an instant, everything returned to darkness.

If this is what it felt like, he didn’t like it. It felt like he was suffocating, yet at the same time he could feel the air all around him. He could feel something else, that reassuring squeeze around his hand, it hadn’t gone away and the presence of his beloved had only grown stronger. He felt a tug on his… arm? He still had his arms? And was that laughter? No, it couldn’t be, could it?

”Open your eyes,” Kris laughed.

It could and it was. He was himself in the world he thought was sure to reject him. A world he thought his existence, his very being forbade him from ever stepping foot in. He was in… the janitor's closet? It was his best guess at the very least. He knew the layout of the school of course, but seeing it firsthand was… surreal, something that mere moments ago he thought impossible. The closet was mostly shrouded in darkness but near the entrance were still some supplies crammed in a corner, clearly the school was trying to make the best of their situation. Reaching for the doorknob with Kris, he knocked over a broom, startling him. Kris laughed.

”Ready?”

He nodded barely able to contain his excitement. Kris led his hand to the doorknob, twisting it with him and a moment later, it was open. The hallway that confronted him seemed so alien. It wasn’t as fantastical as anything in the Dark World, but it’s simplicity was comforting. It smelt of glue, crayon, construction paper and apples (but that might’ve been Kris). He liked it here, schools seemed nice. Kris led him further down the hallway towards the door, hesitating to open it once they reached it.

”Ever wonder why I always come so early in the morning?” They asked. 

He tilted his head as if to say yes. They exhaled joyfully before they opened the school doors.

It was… it… 

He understood.

He read about the sun before and even saw cheap knockoffs. There were plenty of Darkner legends of those trying to make their own, only to snuff theirs out in the process. But, he hadn’t heard a single mutter about its beauty as it rose. He guessed it was because no words could describe it. A colour he couldn’t describe overtook his vision as the overwhelming scent of fallen leaves and the sounds of chirping birds surrounded him. Every single leaf in the trees seemed to be a different colour. He knew then that he had just experienced his favourite season for the first time.

Looking at Kris, who was still enjoying the view, he grabbed them and spun them to look at him. He threw himself around them in a surprise (but not unwelcome) hug. He felt them wrap their arms around him seconds later. Placing his head on their shoulder he tightened his embrace.

”Kris?” He smiled.

”Hmm?” 

“Thank you,” he laughed.

”I didn’t do anything,” Kris whispered, “you took the jump.”

”But you gave me the courage to do it,” he whispered,  “I would stand there waiting for you, I’d wish that I’d be able to go to you, instead of you to me. I was always too afraid to try, things always seemed so… certain back then. Me not ever being me up here just seemed like another certainty. I never thought my wish would come true, never in my wildest dreams nor the deepest depths of my imagination.”

“But this?” He said inspecting his unchanged form, “This is because of you.”

Kris was silent as they grabbed his hands, their palms warmer than before. Kris’s gaze met his, their blush mirroring his own. He realized then that he was seeing them as they were normally. The picture he stole didn’t do them justice, he felt like he was turning into jelly.

”This is because of us,” Kris whispered.

’Us’. That was another one of his wishes he never could’ve imagined coming to fruition.

Yet there he was, a single part of a pair with a form still intact in a world that wasn’t his own, a world that rejected all the others of his species. 

He should really make wishes more often.

Hometown was everything he’d imagined it was, quaint, cosy and well… homey. He always questioned the choice of name, but he supposed he shouldn’t judge, most of the names he came up with for various things were almost immediately thrown away, with the exception of ‘The Fun Gang’. He’s still proud of himself for that one (even if it wasn’t the entire name he came up with).

He liked how small the town was, it was nowhere near as busy as Castle Town which could feel suffocating at times, but there were still just enough smiles around to keep it lively. Some people seemed to look at him confused, he had met most of not all of them before so he didn’t know what to think. It didn’t take him much longer to realize it was because he was up here, just in general, he was still confused about it so why wouldn’t they be? Luckily, no one seemed too bothered by his sudden appearance.   

Seeing all the buildings he had only heard about before was surreal. They weren’t at all how he imagined them. With the frequency Kris and Susie would mention going to “QC’s” he had imagined it to be as colourful as the Dark World. He was surprised to see how tiny it was. He’d also have to concede that Swatch’s hot chocolate was greatly inferior to the stuff they served here. Perhaps it was made with a bit more love. The lady behind the counter did seem to be quite fond of Kris, the more personal way they talked to them compared to everyone else that was ahead of them, so maybe they just get a speciality brew. He also finally got to meet that skeleton man Kris didn’t like. ‘Sans’ was his name, Ralsei thought his voice sounded funny. Ralsei was also finally starting to understand why Kris might dislike him, he seemed hard to have a genuine conversation with. Ralsei was going to ask Sans about his “befriending” of Kris’s mom to see if he could finally explain why Kris thought that was a bad thing, but he decided against it. 

Eventually, the pair arrived at Noelle's house, which was quite large. They were there for all of 2 minutes before they set back off with Noelle in tow, who was seemingly unsurprised that Ralsei was in the Light World. When he questioned it she told him it was because he’s weird, which wasn’t much of an answer. He didn’t pry any further.

”So? Everything you imagined?” Noelle asked.

”It’s very quiet, which isn’t a bad thing! Silence is rare in the castle and I can’t really cherish it. Silence usually means Lancer’s planning something particularly nasty,” Ralsei sighed.

“The trees are also nice, their leaves are pretty,” he said. 

”Won’t be saying that when the snow comes,” Kris said.

”Snow?” Ralsei said head tilted.

Noelle chuckled, “Bet he’ll love Christmas, I might actually have someone who can keep up with me now.”

”Please don’t,” Kris groaned and shook their head, looking at Ralsei. “Halloween is more your thing anyway.”

”Hallow… ween?” Ralsei said.

”It’s an excuse to dress up,” Kris said.

“Oh! Sounds fun!”

”They’re leaving out the ‘scary’ part,” Noelle said.

”Don’t listen to her, she’s a pansy,” Kris said, yawning, “Bet you’d make for a cute vampire, I mean you already got the fangs.” 

Ralsei poked at one of his fangs, he was completely lost. What was a vampire? He didn’t want to know, the compliment was welcome nonetheless which he was sure Kris knew from the blush plastered on his face. Whatever Halloween was, Noelle really seemed to dislike it. Kris and her kept on going back and forth on whether it was good or bad, Noelle much more firm in her stance. All he really got out of listening was that Noelle didn’t like spiders, which wasn’t exactly a surprise. Ralsei learned early on that Noelle wasn’t exactly what you would call ‘fearless’. That wasn’t a bad thing, in fact, he found it rather endearing. It made her the one person he could successfully tease.

He found himself enjoying the sights while Kris and Noelle bickered. They weren’t all that special nor were they nearly as extravagant as some of the things he’d seen, but they were new and that’s all he cared about. In the distance he could see a Ferris wheel, probably for the festival later today, seeing it made him smile. It was probably the only thing that was even slightly familiar. Distracted by the scenery, he nearly walked into a light post. The only reason he didn’t was Kris and Noelle stopped moving as the intensity of their argument heightened.

Eventually, the trio continued on and passed by Kris’s dad's store, the mixing of flowers and sharp-looking spears being rather peculiar. Their Dad didn’t seem to be there, or that’s what Ralsei was told. Something about his ‘truck’ not being there, whatever that was. Kris said he was probably helping with final preparations at the festival. Going further, they reached the beach where they had agreed to meet Susie. Sitting at one of the many tables, Ralsei had the urge to stick his fingers through the holes. He didn’t know why, something inside him just told him it was the right thing to do. That, or it was some form of Lightner magic, if that even existed.

They didn’t sit long, Kris and Noelle deciding it would be nicer to sit in the sand. Ralsei didn’t object. Sitting next to Kris he rested his head on their shoulder while Noelle sat cross-legged, leaning back. The gentle sound of the wind and water was something he hadn’t experienced in a dreadfully long time. He saw a strange-looking creature in the brush to their left, Kris said it was a squirrel and said they liked nuts, to which Noelle laughed and rolled her eyes. Ralsei didn’t get why that was funny, he didn’t question it. He also felt something on his leg, looking down he saw a small bug, its appearance similar to some Darkners if they were shrunk down a bit. Noelle said it was a ‘ladybug’ and that they were harmless. Ralsei liked it, but couldn’t help but wonder if they were really all ladies. He took note of the way it looked, it’s appearance would make for a good outfit if he found the time to make it.

It wouldn’t be much longer before Susie arrived, scaring off the ladybug which Ralsei had coaxed onto his finger. Susie seemed delighted that he was here, happy that the gang could all chip in to pay for her meals at the diner. He wondered if his money would be accepted up here. Probably not. 

“When’s it open up?” Susie asked.

”Around noon, I’ll probably be able to get us in a bit earlier though,” Noelle said, “Any idea when Azzy and his friend are arriving?”

”Oh, they’re both at home, Mom wanted to get to know Frisk better,” Kris said.

”Frisk? That’s a nice name,” Noelle said.

”Yeah, they seem pretty cool too,” Kris said, “Anyways, said they’ll just get in the normal way.”

”Then we have time to kill, where are you goobers taking me?” Susie asked. Ralsei hadn’t heard her say goober in forever, it made him chuckle. 

“Rals? What’d you wanna do?” Kris asked, giving him a nudge.

”Oh! Ummm, I… don’t know! I think I’d like to stay here if you don’t mind,” Ralsei said, somehow finding space to scooch closer to Kris.

”Deal, but we’re getting sandwiches first,” Susie exclaimed. 

“Picnic?” Noelle asked.

”Picnic.” Kris affirmed.

Ralsei knew what a picnic was, Darkners hosted their own all around Castle Town, but he’d never actually been a part of one. He didn’t really care, as long as Kris was there.

Though he would admit sandwiches sounded yummy.

He didn’t know how the Lightners managed it, but all the food he’s had so far surpassed anything in his own world. Everything just seemed so much more real, even the stuff Noelle insisted was pretty much just edible plastic. It made the trip to Sans’ shop well worth it. He had no idea a single man could be filled with so many puns, with none of them even being remotely funny. He really seemed like toying with Kris and Susie. Ralsei wished Susie would avoid antagonizing him, something told Ralsei that if Susie really provoked him, she’d have a bad time. He did like the selection at his store, they didn’t even have to make their own sandwiches! They were pre-made and kept in little triangular containers made from plastic. He liked the one labelled ‘turkey’, whatever that was. When he asked Kris they seemed to avoid the question, as if he wouldn’t like the answer.

Though they went for sandwiches, Susie “accidentally” grabbed a bunch of other snacks. Ralsei enjoyed the marshmallows the most, whoever had the idea of dipping them in chocolate must have been a saint. He wished that the chocolate didn’t melt into his fur, but he could blame the sun for that. Luckily, the lake had more than enough water to spare for some quick hand washing. He also tried wetting his feet to get rid of the sand stuck in his fur, which only worsened things. At least it was refreshing, if a bit muddy. 

A bit before noon, the four left for the festival. Ralsei wanted to ask if they could get more sandwiches but guessed the festival would have plenty of Lightner food to try. Perhaps he would be able to pick up some tips along the way, maybe even show them the art of cauldron cooking. When they reached the festival a large crowd was gathered presumably waiting for the festival to officially start. The size reminded him of the average day in Castle Town. Apparently, it wasn’t always like this, according to Kris at least. He was inclined to believe it, most of the faces in the crowd being unfamiliar. He tried to help Kris spot their brother in the sea of faces to no avail. He was dreading having to join the army of people in waiting, he hadn’t had nearly enough time away from Castle Town for that. As if reading his mind, Noelle led them to a side entrance where the four were let inside the festival. 

He was immediately overwhelmed with the sheer amount of things he suddenly wanted to do, though whatever was producing that aroma would have to come first. Kris promised him that they would stick with him everywhere, putting a smile on his face. Before the four split off, they had agreed to meet at the giant Ferris wheel in around an hour to find Kris’s brother.

Grabbing Kris by the arm, he ran off to find whatever was producing the wonderful smell surrounding them. 

It wasn’t very hard to find what smelt so delicious, he would have to add corn dogs to his list of favourite foods, which seemed to be growing longer every minute he was up here. Kris said they were only ever good at festivals, which he chose to not believe. 

They barely had any time before the horde was unleashed upon them, to Ralsei’s surprise he actually enjoyed the crowd. Something about the density made the festival feel more… festival-like. He didn’t like that the lines for everything got much, much longer, but perhaps it was for the best. It helped him stay focused on one thing, instead of rushing to experience everything immediately, which he assumed Kris was probably thankful for. 

“Sorry,” Ralsei said.

”For?” Kris asked.

”Slowly splitting you in half,” he laughed.

”Hey, as long as you’re having a good time, I’m having a good time. But, uh, was wondering if you’re in for a bit of deja vú,” they said, pointing to a game in the distance. It was the same one ‘Kris’ won a prize from in the Cyberworld. Falling Leaves he thinks it was called.

”Oh! Absolutely! I still owe you for that gift!” 

“Good luck, you’ll probably need it,” Kris said.

”Do you really think I’m not competent enough to knock over a few cans?” Ralsei teased.

”Oh I have complete faith in you, it’s just… well, you’ll see,” Kris said giggling.

Ralsei had no idea what they could mean, surely it was as simple as hitting the cans with the force of a small kitten. And while he was certainly not the strongest, he could throw a mean ball (he had Lancer to thank for that). Luckily for the two of them, the line appeared to be nearly non-existent, others seeming to actively avoid the game. Throwing his first ball he hit the bottom layer of cans dead on, yet there was barely a shift in the structure. He would say it was his throw, but the sound of crunching metal begged to differ. Throwing another, the poor ball was met with the same poor fate as the first, obliterated against the stack of aluminium cans. He looked at Kris expecting to see the same look of confusion as his own, instead, they seemed unfazed by the laws of physics being defied. Grabbing the final ball, he threw it as if his life depended on it, and with yet another violent crunch the tower came tumbling down. He could officially say he was stronger than an empty can of beans. He looked at Kris with a wide grin, they seemed impressed. They were definitely grateful for the prize he won them, a pancake plush (they named it Pansei).

”What was up with that?” Ralsei asked.

”It’s rigged, they don't even try to hide it like all the others do. Don’t know how they do it either, but, uh, nice arm,” Kris smiled. 

“Thank you,” he blushed, “Think we should head  to the Ferris wheel?” 

“Yeah, bet they’re already there anyways. Noelles always early,” Kris said.

It didn’t take them long to reach the Ferris wheel, as busy as the festival was it was still held in a relatively small area. Ralsei could see Noelle and Susie in the distance, talking to a person in a sweater not unlike Kris’s, but with purple and blue stripes. He could also see Kris’s brother talking to Susie. The two picked up the pace and ran over to the group.

”Hey!” Kris yelled, grabbing everyone’s attention.

”Hey you, where’ve you been?” Asriel asked.

“Spending time with doofus,” they said nudging Ralsei, who was happy to be their doofus. Asriel looked over at Ralsei, doing a double take. 

“Yeah, I don’t know,” Kris said, “Don’t really care either, he’s up here and that’s all that matters.”

“Fair enough, so… you two, like, a thing now?” he asked.

Kris and Ralsei both nodded in unison.

”Finally got the courage to do it eh? Always knew you had it in you,” Asriel teased, punching Kris on the shoulder.

”Shut up,” Kris said. Ralsei couldn’t help but giggle. He also noticed Asriel's friend looking at him, head tilted probably waiting for introductions. 

“Your names Frisk right? I’m Ralsei, it’s wonderful to meet you!” he said, giving a head bow.

”So you’re the one Kris would always tell Azzy about! I like your dress,” they said. 

“Oh! Thank you! It’s always been my favourite! But, umm, what would Kris say about me?” Ralsei asked.

”The usual,” Frisk shrugged. Ralsei had no idea what that meant, but he assumed it was a good thing.

”Kris did say you're not from here which kind of stood out, so where ya from?” Frisk asked.

“The Dark World, the one in the school's closet, which I suppose is the only one…” he said. 

“The schools… closet…?” They said confused. Ralsei didn’t know what to say, he assumed Kris would’ve mentioned the Dark World immediately and if not them, their brother. 

“It’s a long story,” Kris said, saving Frisk from an explanation with an excruciating amount of detail.

”Soooo… what’re we doing just standing around, we’re not waiting for anyone else are we?” Frisk asked. 

“Yeah, now that you two freaks are here let's get to the rollercoasters!” Susie said.

”I was thinking more teacups and merry-go-rounds…” Noelle squeaked. Ralsei couldn’t help but agree, he wasn’t exactly fond of rollercoasters after his experience on Queens. He didn’t like the idea of falling into a pile of trash again. 

“Well, purple-shirt and I were gonna get on the Ferris wheel, seems like a decent place to start since it’s you know… right there,” Asriel said. 

“Kris? Can we join them?” Ralsei mumbled, looking at them with his best puppy dog eyes. He really didn’t like the idea of a rollercoaster.

They nodded. Noelle was quick to join in on the idea as well.

”Y’all suck” Susie groaned.

Ralsei could tell she was excited to be alone with Noelle like that again, even if she was good at hiding it. He hoped she would take the chance to say what she wanted to say the first time, but he doubted it. She still wasn’t very good at the kind of thing. He didn’t doubt that they’d enjoy the Deja vú.

But hey, perhaps a bit of Deja vú is what those two needed to work things out.

Ralsei didn’t appreciate how truly big the Ferris wheel was until he was on it. Its height was astounding! He’d never gotten to see anything from that high up before (or at least not while the view wasn’t quickly accelerating towards him). He didn’t say a word during the ride, simply enjoying the view and the company of their companion. He overheard some of what Noelle and Susie were discussing in the basket behind them. It sounded like the two sorted some things out, he didn’t know exactly how much progress was made but with those two, any progress was progress. How those two ended up with a more complicated status than Kris and himself was mind-boggling. He certainly wouldn’t complain but he also couldn’t help but feel a bit guilty.

After the Ferris wheel, he tagged along wherever the rest of the group went, grabbing any new food he spotted along the way. He joined them on the teacups, finally getting to share that seat with Kris, as well as hopping on the merry-go-round which wasn’t what he was expecting. It wasn’t all that merry just kind of uncomfortable, it certainly did go round though. He also, reluctantly, joined them on the rollercoaster. He underestimated how persuasive Susie could be. He didn’t enjoy the ride, even if he did like the rush of wind against his fur. He almost threw up everything he had eaten which he realized was a bit too much. It definitely wasn’t an experience he would want to repeat, Noelle seemed to share his sentiment.

”You know, if you liked the feeling of the rushing air we could all go for a drive after. Got my own car and everything, besides, it’s about time Kris learned how to drive!” Asriel said. 

“Kris driving? Now THAT I gotta see,” Susie said, punching Kris in the arm.

”Umm… sure! I don’t see why not!” Ralsei said.

Asriel gave him an enthusiastic nod, pausing for a moment before leading the group further onward. Ralsei followed mindlessly before being pulled away by Kris, who seemed particularly interested in the attraction in front of them. Taking a closer look he understood why, it was called “The Field of Memories”, hearts surrounding the sign. Peering inside he could see tons of flowers which all looked awfully familiar, like the ones he was surrounded by when he found out about Kris ‘situation’, the revelation that haunted his memory. 

“I’ve been meaning to find a chance to take you here all day,” Kris said.

”Yeah?” He said.

”Yeah. This is the, uh, stand-in for the tunnel-of-love they usually have, didja wanna…?” Kris asked.

Ralsei giggled, it was unlike Kris to be meek, “Of course!” 

It wasn’t as large, not by a long shot, but this ‘field’ brought back memories, he could already see the camera at the end. The two decided to wait until the attraction was empty, for their privacy of course. It didn’t take long, it seemed as if this year hadn’t been the best for everyone’s love life. Intertwining his hand with Kris’s, the two slowly marched forward, careful to not step on any of the flowers Kris’s dad worked so hard to cultivate. 

“So? How do you feel now that you’ve been up here for a while?” Kris asked.

Ralsei yawned, “I love it up here, I haven’t been able to be so absent… ever I think? I always have to be on top of things in Castle Town, if I’m not something could break for good.”

”What’s your favourite part?”

”Do I even need to say?” He chuckled.

”Yes,” Kris said with a smirk.

”You,” he exclaimed, leaning his head on their shoulder.

”Sweet,” they mumbled, a short silence following.

”I, uh, didn’t want to bring this up earlier, not around everyone else, but I’ve had this idea in my head for a while now and I just wanted to know if you’re willing to hear me out,” Kris said.

”I’m always willing to listen, Kris, now more than ever,” Ralsei said.

”Great, umm, it’s just, I’m done school. Mom said a while back that she wants to send me off to the same secondary school Azzy’s going to off in the city, Noelle’s going too. My first set of classes start in the winter,” they explained.

”Does that mean…?” 

“I won’t be here for much longer and won’t be able to see you,” they said wistfully.

“What? That’s not… how long will you be gone?” He asked, brow raised in concern.

”I don’t know. But, you… you’re here, in our world and that’s good.”

”What does that have to do with anything?” He questioned.

“We didn’t wanna leave Susie alone here, so I offered to be her roommate so she could come with us. But we were all talking yesterday, that if you could exist up here we could change some things around. And now you’re up here,” Kris replied

“Yes?”

”Susie said she’d be willing to stay with Noelle, so that leaves me alone. The idea is you coming with us and staying with me,” Kris said.

“Kris, I-“ he was cut off, quickly glancing ahead he noticed they were quickly approaching the camera.

”I don’t want to leave you here alone. You’re worth too much to be left so cruelly, especially with all the garbage Lancer puts you through,” Kris said.

”Kris, pl-“

”I tried to get Mom to let me do online classes but she said didn’t want me to miss out on the college experience like she had with Dad and Uncle Rudy” they continued.

“Just let me-“

”I just, I don’t know if I can be there alone. I mean Susie and Noelle are there but, they’re not you and it’s so scary. It’s such a big change and I’m not ready for it. I don’t know if I’m ready or if I… what if I fail? You would know what to say, you always-“

”KRIS!” He yelled in an attempt to gain their attention.

”Kris… I,” Ralsei paused briefly to look at their beloved.

They let out a deep sigh, their face plastered with a look of pure defeat as if they already knew what he would say.

”You wish you could?” Kris mumbled.

”Kris... it doesn’t need to be a wish,” he cooed.

”What?” 

”Wherever you go, I’ll be, for as long as you’ll have me and if that means leaving Castle Town for a while, so be it. I’ve always wanted to see everything the Light World had to offer, and I’d prefer to see it all with you.”

”So you’ll…?” Kris said, eyes wide open.

”Of course,”

He adored the smile that slowly crept onto their face, ”I… I don’t know what to…”

He didn’t have time to process their hand leaving his before he felt both of theirs on his cheeks. He barely registered that before he was pulled into a kiss. It was awkward given their differences, nor was it anything like how he remembered the first, besides the flash of the camera in the background. It was sweet and full of passion unlike the first, he never realized how truly hollow that kiss had been all that time ago.

”Ummm…” he smiled, “When do we leave?”

He’d expected it to be soon, just not that same day soon. After they emerged and Ralsei quickly grabbed a couple of copies of that picture, the rest of their group was waiting for them outside, staring at the two, awaiting an answer. Kris gave them a nod, though Ralsei was sure the red on their cheeks was all they needed to see. They bee-lined it all the way to Asriel’s car and drove to the school, rushing to help Ralsei pack the most important of his belongings and all of his dresses and robes. All the Darkners seemed confused, with good reason, for all the strange happenings in the Dark World he never recalled six people stampeding in demanding a few cardboard boxes. 

Before they left, Ralsei confided in Queen to keep it tidy while he was gone. He didn’t trust her to actually do it, but all in all, she was the least destructive out of all the leaders they befriended in their adventures. Quickly stopping by everyone’s homes in the Light World, everyone said goodbye to their family.

An hour later he sat crammed in the back seat of Asriel’s car, he was lucky enough to get a window seat. Kris sat to his right, and Susie and Noelle were asleep. How they managed to cram all their luggage in the back and then themselves should be studied by physicists. Watching the horizon in the distance he felt Kris squeeze his hand, a small, content, smile appeared on his face.

”Think you could use some magic to get us there faster?” They whispered.

He giggled softly, slumping over to lean on Kris’s shoulder as they stroked his ear. Closing his eyes preparing to sleep, he whispered back,

”I wish I could.”