Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

XChara, despite his lackluster training with Overwrite, was able to escape his original universe and escape to some other, not like he cared which alternate reality he ended up in.

It was a slightly intimidating experience originally…all the color, people, and lack of any recognizable characters. The location with similar enough, though. A big city with large buildings and a mountain in the distance. It also didn't help that he was some edgy, agressive monochrome boy with black eyes and really strange pupils that showed up out of nowhere.

The familiarity issue was partly resolved upon the barrier being destroyed and monsters returning to the surface, an event that vaguely seemed familiar to XChara. His introduction definitely could've been warmer as he nearly killed Gaster at first sighting then had mixed emotions towards Frisk and weirdly knew all the monsters that had just arrived. His striking resemblance to, and same name as, the Dreemurr's adopted human also served to make his first meeting an experience on both sides.

Despite that very stacked introduction he did end up explaining himself to Frisk, the one he assumed to be most able to handle the whole 'from another world' thing, and ended up becoming decently close to Frisk and quite a few monsters. Although, he didn't get much time to spend with the main cast on account of the local societal and political implications of monsters suddenly returning to the surface.

Frisk was mostly wrapped up with ambassador work and the rest had their own things or were also involved in some way, mainly because of the entire organization that's against monsterkind. He would personally erase the place but he's been trying to avoid doing things of that nature. Leaving him to spend a majority of his time at some house he essentially stole using Overwrite and play games he also stole using Overwrite.

Despite that, his life wasn't exactly the greatest. His social knowledge was lacking after several years of what was essentially isolation and most things considered common knowledge were completely foreign to him. The most he could easily learn about was technology like phones, modern consoles, and other general appliances that weren't present in his original universe. They all only really served as distractions and occasionally a source of information about the world he found himself in.

After enough time and boredom he found himself invested in manga and anime, which was also just a distraction from his situation, not that he didn't genuinely enjoy it.

The internet was just as confusing as normal social interaction. Typing was a skill he had to learn and the lack of communication skills carried over to online games. There were also several references he didn't get and the general behavior of people was shocking, serving to make a mostly negative experience overall.

People in the real world aren't much better. Most gave him strange looks for his odd appearance and it didn't help that he was apart of the small majority that thought monsters didn't need to be feared or ostracized. Even when those didn't conflict with his ability to initiate a conversation, there was his physiological age of a teen that messed things up in some way. People 'older' than him took him less seriously and those 'the same age' as him were just…not fun. Didn't help that most didn't even recognize some of the words he used. Not to mention his lack of actual topics, which is why he stuck to monsters. Much easier to converse with plus he actually had words to say.

At this point in time, XChara lays bored in the living room of his home large enough for a full family waiting for something to happen. He has so many options yet also so little, the paradox that comes with the ability to do practically anything. Luckily, a knock at his door answers his metaphorical prayers.

Chapter Text

Finally free from the shackles placed upon me by this couch I get up and open the door to see Asgore. Have to stop myself from asking: "dad"?

"Oh hello. Asgore…" I greet simply, making it more than obvious that I have an issue calling him just 'Asgore'.

"Greetings, XChara," he replies with a subtle pause around my name. Either mocking me or having a similar issue. "I am not sure if you have heard but Betty, that…girl that Frisk met sometime ago has been captured for attempting to kill Asriel and Sans." Asgore states slowly as if I have any idea of what he is talking about.

"Uh…excuse me? Sorry I haven't exactly been watching the news and I've been…occupied for the last few days." I reply, probably sounding like an idiot or a loser

"Ah, I see." He starts…he was always so patient… "This make take a while so if you'd allow me inside…" Asgore then asks passively before I move to the side to let him in.

He goes onto explain that Frisk met some girl who turned out to be some millennium old creation called a Bête Noire who has apparently been causing trouble for monsters with assistance from the leader(?) of the AMD, Jessica Gray. Asgore then elaborates that the police very suddenly arrived to the scene despite there being no destruction or anything to cause it. Undyne was with the responders and was able to bring Betty in after a fight. But not without some injuries. Also Betty did have some amorphous blob companion that hasn't been seen since the incident.

Anyways. Now this person is locked up in a 'rehabilitation facility' with a magic-restricting collar made by Gaster. Which seems just a little degrading…to be expected from that guy. Now this is where I somehow get involved as a 'viable' candidate. Frisk, in his optimism, thinks that she could be redeemed and also could technically do it but he has ambassador work to do. With Betty's actions dampening monster image it would just be inconvenient. Asgore also offered to take up the task but since he asked me to…I really just couldn't say no to him. Frisk apparently being so adamant about it didn't help either.

Now I suppose I have a job and something to keep me occupied. I am not really sure how they see me as someone with the abilities to convince someone to a better path. Perhaps. I could just use Overwrite and be done with it. But, no, that just feels…wrong, and far too similar to him…probably just more of his stupid influence over me because of our shared soul. Probably should avoid focusing on that though. I'm separated from that place now.

Now. I am to meet Gaster at Betty's location to get a debrief on the details.

XChara, after a while, teleports to the place using Overwrite to meet Gaster and get a bit more briefed on the situation. For Asgore and Frisk's sakes he puts his distrust of Gaster's intentions aside and actually pays attention to what he has to say. Gaster explains that XChara is to spend an hour a day talking with Betty to make some form of progress, but not be too down on himself if nothing comes of it since she's largely unresponsive. Gaster also makes it especially clear that they still have to be cautious about this situation even if she's heavily restricted in terms of what she can do, and that he'll be monitoring their interactions through cameras.

With that in mind, XChara makes his way to the room that Betty is located in, which he notes to be very out of place, like it specifically constructed for this. It's significantly more high tech than the others and looks more like a place in an insane asylum with…white padded walls. That definitely won't be an issue…he'll just have to hope that he's discernible enough from the walls. Assessment aside, he stands in front of the door looking for some kinda handle before it opens on it's own.

Chapter Text

I've been sitting against a wall in this room for…anything, truly. It's odd being so inactive, especially without Kumu here to say anything or keep me accompanied and- oh- the door has opened…could probably make a dash- later, not now. A…peculiar person steps inside. It's difficult to make him(?) out against the white of the room, not sure why'd they paint someone completely white for this-

"Greetings." greetings(?) how formal, "I'm supposed to talk with you here and attempt to get you to change your ways," what a joke, "or something like that. I guess. I do not really understand how I'm qualified for this but despite that I'll try. Also. Yes I look like this naturally." I don't believe it, and what great self confidence. Also he's definitely a guy based off that voice in spite of his…girly appearance

With my limited abilities I attempt to get a sense of this guy, looking into his strange eyes to an annoying nothing. Although, it does feel like there's…two people there, but only…half of two people?

"What…are you?" I ask while eyeing him suspiciously. He seems surprised by my voice then unamused at the question.

"I'm human. Trust me. Also I do not have any relationship to that skeleton despite the…strange similarities." An odd thing to point out, but a fair one. Their eyes are…similar enough and the choices of clothing are somewhat identical, not to mention his pale white skin. Also, it's not what I meant.

"Not what I meant." I state harshly, wanting to make my annoyance known, "there's something weird about you." I continue, scrutinizing him for any details while he thinks. He seems surprised then quickly changes to being annoyed, don't think I've ever seen a person's eyes go so quickly from round to sharp, yet it's also strange…he doesn't seem mad at me.

"Weird…how. It is clearly not surface level." He questions, if you can call it that, almost demandingly…the mood swings on this guy. Although, this does tell me that there's definitely something going on here.

I decide that he doesn't deserve a response and meet him with a cold stare, but he seems to quickly drop the q- "Hm… I probably shouldn't focus on that anyways…" he states, rudely interrupting my thoughts. "So. I understand that you were…created for this but why go along with it? With all of the good faces of human and monsterkind are you not at least a little swayed."

"How naive, and probably hypocritical just like the rest of your kind." Is all I have to say in response. If only he knew the atrocities people like Frisk, Asriel, or Asgore committed. I bet he also has something to hide that'd ruin his image as well…if only this stupid collar didn't restrict me.

"Feels like a large leap on your end. I'm quite assured that not everyone is secretly some vile person." Ugh, this guy must've been raised around sunshine and rainbows to be so ignorant, or royalty with how he talks sometimes.

"Just how innocent are you, exactly?" I ask almost impulsively out of sheer disbelief, narrowing my eyes at…he never said his name. Ignoring that, I notice…some brief emotion on his face that I can't make out.

"I…would not say that I am." Oh, so he's just an optimist despite it all…that's so much worse, or he's just exaggerating to defend himself. Where the hell did he just pull a box of…chocolate milk from…?

"Where…where the hell did you pull that from??"

"My back pocket. It is important to have hydration when going out." Short and blunt…a description of his words and stature.

"I…don't think that counts as hydration. Although I suppose I could just hope that you slowly kill yourself drinking enough of those." I can't help but laugh to myself as a fantasize about the scenario, someone drinking themself to death in the stupidest way possible.

"We are getting sidetracked here." Great, back to this…wait a minute didn't he dera- "I still need to understand your whole…deal to get anywhere. Is there anything you'd like to willing share." Worst question I have ever heard…if you can call it that. Sounds more rhetorical.

Unsurprising to both of us I stay quiet. I have no issue talking with this odd figure but I won't be revealing anything major, especially not for this stupid purpose of 'reforming' me. This entire conversation is a waste of my time anyways, yet also my only use of it…how annoying.

He sighs and walks closer to me, and I silently respond by giving him a look of disgust. He sits down across from me and seems to take note of my expression. With the newfound proximity I take the time to get a better look at him. It was difficult to tell at a distance but his right eye is covered by his hair and there appears to be a scar through the same eye, he has a natural blush but it's…purple…how strange can this guy get? First the oddity with what I assume to be his soul, now the color of his blood, and not to mention his monochrome color palette except the…gold heart locket…where did he get that? I saw them in the goats memories as some kinda thing between that human, Chara, and him.

Back to his bold approach itself, I would applaud him for his confidence of approaching me but I assume that it's truly just stupidity. "Here to 'get on my level' or something generic?"

"Of course not. I was just tired of standing and the distance between us." I was definitely right. "Although. This definitely does make things more personal. Or at least I believe so." definitely an excuse. "Onto the main reason I walked over. I would like to point Frisk managed to put a faith of humanity in Muffet and even Undyne yet you stay persistent in whatever cause you fight for and beliefs you have. There's no way that you don't have…some knowledge that would sway your perspective." 

I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't surprised at the extremely sudden tone shift, which I attempt to not let show. His voice got a lot quieter, probably to not let anyone hear through the cameras, and his eyes bore into me. Although, there's a blunder in his words, he must also must know something vital about Frisk to even think to ask this. Perhaps he does know about the multiple genocides, or maybe just the concept of reset…wouldn't be a stretch since that skeleton and the goat know as well. It's either that or it's something on an even grander scale…how interesting…I'll have to keep that in mind.

"Why should I tell you anything? You barely even deserve to hear me speak." I reply sharply, not wanting this weirdo to think that he has anything on me. "Besides, it's not like I know anything about whatever you're talking about. You sound insane. I simply have my beliefs and I stick by them no matter what do-gooders pass me." I add, keeping a similar hushed tone to my 'reformer' since we'd probably get called out, and I want to see where he's going with this.

"Tell me, from the moment you were 'born' was there ever a moment where you told the truth?" Why'd he say it like that? Whatever.

"I could ask the same of you and we'd both have the same answer. It's impossible to tell a lie to everything." His question does me wonder, though…have I ever told the truth? I mean excluding my conversations with Kumu of course, no point in lying to him.

All he does is hum and reach behind him before pulling out another thing of chocolate milk from his 'back pocket.' Wait where the hell did the furst one go?! At this point I don't even bother to question it aloud and instead give him an odd look, which he meets with an…odd expression. His mouth looks like a three flipped on it's side…

"Suppose I should take the time to dig into your whole…philosophy. With how self assured you are I think it would be concerning if you did not have something you're living by." He states, his volume and everything else suddenly back to his version of normal. It's difficult to tell if these are intentional or those weird 'teen mood swings' she's seen in the memories of some people.

"Pick up a history book and you might understand how I think." Is all I really have to say. Despite how obvious it is I heavily doubt that this idiot would figure out what I mean. When I look at him for a response he seems…embarrassed.

"About that…look. I have been…largely separated from society a majority of my life. Had to pick up a lot in a couple years. History was…not one of them…" He replies before drinking from his odd choice of drink, most likely for some kind of comfort. I cannot believe this guy. I almost didn't until I realized just how genuine his tone was and the slightly brighter hue on his cheeks.

I can't stop myself from letting out an annoyed huff of air before responding, "You'll have to look into it on your own because I will not be teaching you." What priorities does this guy have? What else could he even focus on when getting introduced to society? There's nothing good about it.

"Well what if I don't have the time for that. I would go my entire life without having understood what you alluded to." This guy is more of a child than a teen.

"Then it's not my problem. You'll just have to live with a gap in your knowledge." I reply, attempting to mask my annoyance since I don't want this jerk to think that he 'won' at all.

It looks like he's about to say something else but then some voice, I think the scientist's, sounds over the intercom saying that our hour is up and for…XChara to talk with him. How is everything about this guy so weird? Even his name is that of the Dreemurr's adopted child but with an 'x' tacked on. 

As XChara gets up it's hard to not notice his expression. I can't exactly make it out but it definitely isn't anything happy.

I would have preferred to just get this hour over with and go home to do whatever strikes me. Instead, I am forced to talk with Gaster again. I'd much rather avoid him entirely…he just gives off a bad feeling I cannot get over. Plus he couldn't just wait a moment longer. Was just about to bait her into telling me whatever it was that she's talking about with the whole history thing.

As I make the painful walk to the surveillance room Gaster is in I'm reminded of the other reason I avoid him. Our first interaction was less than flattering for me. Nearly killed him based on appearance alone. Completely forgetting about the difference in universe. How I was trying to be less violence prone. 

Attempting to push past that I continue on. Trying to put my bias aside for even just a moment for Asgore's sake…would rather not let him down again, even if he doesn't know about the first time. 

AAGGHHH!! Cmon, focus! Why do I have to be so sentimental all of a sudden? Never gonna get anything done if I can't stay on task…

Finally getting to the room with cameras I knock on the door since it's locked, which isn't surprise. It would be a tremendous risk for a place of such importance to be easily accessible. The door opens and I just see Gaster standing there. I'm not intimidated by his height yet something is making me uneasy so I default to an angry expression…is this how my brother felt? Just seeing him there in a place you wouldn't expect…? His expression doesn't help…it's something like disappointment…? Unamusement…? I think I've been staring for too long.

…

Chapter Text

His expression soon changes to something akin to confusion as he looks down at me. "Uh…come in." He invites tentatively as he steps aside to allow me in. As I do so, he fakes a cough to clear his nonexistent throat.

"I was going to bring up how you could've left out the theatrics and 'chocolate milk' that you pulled out of nowhere, but you seemed offended before I even brought it up."

"It's just my default expression." I explain simply, still feeling a little awkward around him.

"Yes I have noticed that of you. Anyways, despite your…goofiness I should commend you for at least getting a conversation out of her along with some bit of decent information."

"Not like I can get anything from it though…I am not exactly versed in human history."

"I'm not very up to date on human history either, except with a much better excuse, so I'm just as lost as you are… It shouldn't be too hard to pick up on whatever it is she alluded to. If I do find anything I'll let you know tomorrow."

"Uh- thanks. She doesn't seem very willing to share anything personal so any bit of insight will help." 

"Are you…alright? You seem…tense. If you are concerned about how I think of you after our first interaction I can assure you that I hold nothing against you…even if I don't fully understand your reasoning. Or was it something that she said? You did seem to have a slightly intense reaction to a couple of her responses…"

I guess I owe him an explanation as to why I'm so odd around him. Even if it doesn't really explain much, "You just remind me of…someone that I hold…strong feelings about. Your appearances are very similar is all."

"Oh…I see. Well, I do wish that I could do something to alleviate that, since it would help make our communication smoother." Is it bad that I question if he truly means that?

"I will come around eventually…maybe. I've been avoiding you. In all honesty. So I have not really had the time to differentiate the two of you. With this forced interaction I might be able to get over it."

"Hm…well, I don't think we have much else to discuss for now. As I said, I'll take some time to look into history and see if I can find something. Luckily I have a bit of a timeframe since her creator wouldn't know anything past when she died…unless she developed some belief all on her own…but I doubt that. A creation seemingly as loyal as her probably wouldn't stray far from her creator in terms of mentality…especially since their soul is the one she uses. I wonder if her creator is alive in some way through that…?" 

How inquisitive, I suppose I should expect that of a Gaster…even if I only know one other variant. Weird how he knew of so many variants of me, Frisk, and the rest of the crew but few of himself. Also makes me wonder if the Frisk of this universe has mixed feelings about me. If I do really so closely resemble Chara would I remind him of his…potential actions? We've been in a true pacifist for a long time without a reset which makes me think that he's either exhausted all other options or is a true sai- "Uh, XChara? You are…free to leave…unless you have something to say…?" 

"Huh? Oh, right… Sorry. I was just lost in thought there."

He lets out what sounds like a hidden chuckle before responding, "ah, I understand. Anyways, as I said, you are free to leave now."

Without a word I get up, finding that my feet were already angled to the door, before exiting the room, building, then teleporting back home to my almost comically oversized house.

With actual time to assess that whole interaction, I can't help but get over that girls appearance and voice. "I mean, I thought lolis were only a weird thing from Japanese media, not something real you'd ever see. A thousand years old yet looks around my, physical, age (I think) yet has a much younger voice. What's up with that anyways? Back in my 'I'm evil' days I would MUCH rather have looked older opposed to 'edgy teen with knife'. Not to mention the rest of her appearance. Why all the pink and the occasional purple? Also where did she even get purple? A millennia ago couldn't you only get purple from some like…sea snail? And it was only used for royalty, apparently, so I'm not exactly sure where she got a pair of thigh high socks in that color or a purple into pink turtleneck. Then again, magic, that is always a solution. Also, I hope that she's aware that her manner of sitting kinda reveals herself. I didn't look but it did surprise me when I tried to get all serious. Physical assessment aside, she definitely is quiet, or at the very least secretive. Only thing I really got were basic or unhelpful answers. Despite that, it does still lead me to believe that she knows something about the ability of reset. Maybe just the concept and assumed the worst from there or actually saw the worst somehow. It would also explain how she's still all evil even after meeting some of the main faces of humans and monsters, which appear as the kindest faces you'll ever see. Especially Asgore, even if he did murder like 6 kids apparently. I've done worse anyways. Although Asriel had to have had an effect, there's no way he didn't. I'm pretty sure that he's the most innocent creature in the multiverse." (Oh how wrong would could be). "I think that's all to really 'write' about with that whole interaction…other than her just not calling me out. Probably gonna get a bunch of questions or something tomorrow."

With that done, I now have nothing to do other than continue to contribute nothing to the society I leech off of. A work I hold nothing but pride in. People should really just gain the ability to alter reality itself. You really just have to think hard enough and you're good. They'll just have to catch up as I concern myself with the important things like what game to play now.

Chapter Text

Before I stepped in, Gaster stopped me claiming that he possibly found something related to Betty's statement last session about history. He noticed a pattern of similar events occurring several years apart, and he theorized that she has a similar belief about the "fate" of humans and monsters. Not sure how I'll be able to use that but I'll have to keep it in mind…

I think a day has passed, it's hard to tell without a view of the outside, not that it particularly matters to me. I intend on making an escape soon enough, but with this new arrangement I may be halted ever so slightly. Speaking of…the idiot in white arrives again, seeming a little less stiff than last time.

"So you came back? Makes me wonder what your angle is, what reason do you have to be interacting with something like me." I say that, yet I'm slightly enjoying efforts. While he is briefly dampening my plans it is quite amusing to see someone apply such effort to a meaningless task. 

"Well, Asgore asked me and I just couldn't deny him. He's done a lot for me, whether he is aware of it or not. Plus…you remind me of someone, oddly enough." Odd indeed, how am I similar to anyone? Better yet, who does this circus freak even know.

"Mind explaining? I am…curious as to how anyone resembles me." At least I'm the one asking the questions this time. It'll be nice to get something out of this oddity.

"Well. He was similarly unswayed from a…detrimental mindset. Not to mention how stuck he was on how things would just…repeat…and he gave up on finding another way." He starts off sounding decently confident, or at the very least replying in his usual tone, but after that it transitioned into something more…resentful…perhaps guilt.

"Interesting…" Accidentally thought aloud there but it's fine. His response tells me that he had the egghead look into the whole history thing, and that he finds what little he knows of my mindset to be "detrimental", how naive. The guilt is also very fun. There's someone that he could have done something for, or at least believes that he could've done something, yet didn't. I have to know more.

"-a question." Seems I missed something. "Just one before I'm most likely interrogated. So, in the…hypothetical scenario in which you were aware that a person could go back in time to a chosen point to make different decisions, what would you assume of their actions." Once again he 'questions' me in that barely inquisitive tone. The only reason I even know it's a question is because he stated it to be. Speaking pattern aside, that is either an incredible coincidence or he's testing me…

"I don't see why you would ask something so illogical, even if it a hypothetical. Plus, you should already know by now that I'd assume the worst. The fact that you haven't got there yet is concerning."

"Well aren't you quite the misanthrope. And insulting. Makes me a little concerned about what you think of me…" He proceeds to look at me expectantly. I'm fine with letting him know how lowly I think of him but of course it has to be because he wanted me to.

"Hey! You said that you only had one question before I got to have my interrogation of you." That smug expression is infuriating. First thing I'll do once I'm out of here is tear it off of him.

"What? I'm not asking you anything. You're just putting words in my mouth. How rude." Definitely going to kill him.

"I believe that it's my time to start asking questions. Besides I've grown tired of knowing so little about you, weirdo."

"I have a name, Betty. Or would you prefer I find you a cute little nickname too, pinky? Also, fine, I guess." Did he really emphasize my name to make some kinda point? His imagination must be lacking if all he could think of is "pinky."

"What's with your whole…getup? Being completely monochrome down to your skin isn't exactly normal. Not to mention your eyes, all black with those strange…'pupils' if you can even call them that. I would've assumed white with black, not the other way around."

"You've gotta find a better way to ask questions." Am I supposed to care, hypocrite? "And to answer your question it's just how I was born, not much else to it…except the eyes. There's more story behind that. Don't bother asking." How helpful…more of what I already know for the most part. 

"What about that locket? I've been told that it was a Dreemurr family thing while I was all nice with the pacifist, which makes me wonder where you got your hands on one." 

"Just an odd coincidence. That, or they just look similar. Hard to tell the difference between two separate gold lockets in the shape of a heart." That is most definitely a lie, but of course this guy has to be stubborn about the important details so even if I tried to pry it would only be a waste.

"That's fair, I suppose…" I've now realized that I haven't questioned him about the seemingly purple blood…he wouldn't say anything helpful. "While my abilities are limited I can still sense something…odd about your soul. Like it's…divided yet simultaneously whole. I would assume that you know more about your own soul that I do." Once again he appears angry at some unknown figure…possibly that other person I can somewhat sense.

"That's unimportant to you. Besides, don't you try and steal those? Probably all you're interested in." Wow…such aggression. The ferocity is a little exciting, if only I could meet it…

"And you've gotta find a way to show your emotions. Hiding behind anger can only get you so far. Don't worry, I'll get it out of you eventually~" I can't help but laugh aloud as I think of taking his soul while he helplessly struggles, which he meets with a confused and slightly concerned expression. "Seriously, though, you can run from your demons all you want but you'll be exhausted eventually."

"You can psychoanalyze me all you want but in the end you will only have me confused with someone else." (See what I did there?)

"Seems that a girl can't have hobbies anymore. How sad~" I'm surprised he isn't giggling like a little girl too, I'm hilarious after all.

"You're a psychopath." Wow, took him long enough.

"How astute of you, great psychologist."

"You're hilarious. Now do you have anything else to say oh mysterious one?" Wow, an actual question…I should celebrate.

"Well newer topics seem to frustrate you so how about an old one? Who from your small roster of friends do I remind you of? Or is that also just gonna serve to make you cranky?"

"I know plenty of people, actually. A lot of monsters really like me. But that's beside the point. It's…my brother that you remind me of in the ways I listed. Beyond that, you're entirely different…except your hair, maybe…it could also be silky like his…" 

I don't like the way he's looking at my hair… "Don't get any ideas." Good to get that out of the way first. Back to what matters: he probably finds this as some way to atone for his previous inaction or something idiotic like that. It'll definitely be fun to play around with, if possible, once I get out.

"You're very silent. You must think more than I talk to be taking such long pauses all the time."

"It's important to assess things as I hear it in this scenario. You should do the same."

"That's way too much work, plus it's boring. Yesterday I just looked over things once I got home. Instead of this you should consider living the 'normal' life for a while, did wonders for me, and I'd say our situations are similar enough so it definitely could work." Seems he wasn't lying about talking a lot…probably just enjoys the sound of his own voice.

"And now you're comparing me to you. Since I'm so similar to your family maybe I'm your long lost sister after your dear old dad found someone a bit more colorful." If he doesn't pick up on the clear condescending tone I'm going to tackle him.

"As fun of a suggestion that it is you'd be in a very different situation if you were related to me. Also I was only referring to our shared absence from society. You don't have to be so insolent all the time." Of course I don't, but it's definitely more fun to be.

"So you are a social reject. I had my suspicions but it's good to have confirmation from the source. Also I'll have you know that I am not an outcast like you. I've spent plenty of years wandering the streets throughout the decades. It was either that or frolicking in nature…you should try it out. Might help your skin. You could walk down the street and not blind everyone in the surrounding area for once."

"I guess I really don't have an excuse then, if even you can find a way to walk around without scrutiny… Outside of my house doesn't hold much appeal anyways. People suck and the surrounding nature is far too tree infested. I would much prefer feilds of flowers over…trees." Feilds of…

"flowers?" Damn it… "I have been alive for many years yet I have not seen many of those, especially not enough for someone to have a preference for them over what's normal for…everywhere I've been. Seen plenty of grass expanses with little patches of flowers, but feilds? Not often…where the hell did you grow up? Starting to think that you're just some escaped lab experiment with preset memories."

Well he's considering this for longer than usual…that's definitely weird… "I…can't give a name. Education was mixed. People were quite formal but geography was at a low." Lie and a half…if he answered quicker it might've been convincing.

"Right…I'll get it out of you eventually, y'know, so you might as well just tell me now." I'm technically not lying to him, although it wouldn't matter if I was.

"Well, seems you've got me backed into a corner with no escape, how tragic." How dramatic. "I guess I have to tell you the secret I've been hiding from everyone, th-"

"Oh cut it out already! I get it, you're gonna be annoying to get me off of you. Could've just said that you were gonna be defiant instead of talking to piss me off." This kid is a brat, plain and simple.

"It's my nature, can't defy that solely for your convenience or state of mind." It's that stupid face again…

"Yet I found a way to play all goody-two-shoes and still stay true to mine, which means that you don't have an excuse…again."

"Well I assume it's in yours to lie, manipulate, or anything else to help further yourself along the twisted path you've chosen. In that case, you've got no point to make." One right and one wrong, cancels eachother out, which makes his statement mean nothing.

"I didn't choose this, I was made for it, and I have found no reason to stray from the noble path set for me. You did say it for yourself: 'people suck'." (I'm great at punctuation order 🤫) "They're not worth any trust you give them."

"So…what you overheard someone talk behind your back? Said that you were adorable to your face but called you a weirdo in some shady alley?" I hate how genuine he sounds…also…weirdly specific… 

"No, but I've seen…similar things happen to others. Humans, also, will always pretend to be something they're not, will always hide something. No matter how honest people make themselves out to be or say they are it's never true, and never will be true."

"Well you're not human. Does that mean that YOU, alone, have the chance to be perfect? Sounds unfair to me."

Well I've gotten…a reaction with that statement. She's gone quiet and even seems a little contemplative. She isn't even looking at me with that hateful expression anymore…I'm a little concerned, honestly. She's either going to show miraculous improvement or get tremendously worse. (Put in your answers now, folks)

"Thats-" She states before a very annoyed huff, returning to the usual hate-filled stare. "I don't like you. You're persistent and stupid." A short answer…rare when it comes to her. Still insulting though. She always has something to say in that weird voice. (Sucks for all of you, you should've chose denial)

And just like that the constricting hour is over, marked by an announcement, and I have to go have a small talk with the old man. "Well, I suppose that you can contemplate my persistence and stupidity while I'm gone." If she comes up with some statement it definitely could be telling. I have that to look forward to at least.

The noticeably extra process of the door opening to let me out and closing to keep her in reminds me of the severity or at least the serious nature of this entire thing. Not to mention how different her case is compared to everyone else's…at least that's what I can tell by looking at the rooms on the way to the surveillance room. I wonder if that technically makes Gaster temporary security…this place is fucked.

I get there and it's the same as last time: he opens the door, I walk in and find a good place to stand, and conversation ensues.

"You seem to have a gift, Ch- XChara. Both days you've gotten a minimum of something out of her, even had her falter for a second at the end. I wonder if you truly were the better pick for this. Good thing we didn't force Frisk into it. 

"Thanks…but I'm sure he would've done just as well, in his own way. I'm just acting how I act and it seems to work well enough."

"Well, keep it up, then. You've gotten enough information to get a decent read on her. She's proud about her 'purpose' and even finds it noble, but she's also conflicted in some way. If she wasn't, she would just dismiss your last question. Not to mention the…odd version of misanthropy. It's rather narrow instead of broad like most cases, like it's a specifically taught thing. Based on her stating how she's seen the breaking of trust in other people means she must've seen worse, yet she didn't mention it…I think she seeks reassurance for her beliefs, which shows doubt."

"I thought you were a scientist not a psychologist…but it's a good theory, I suppose. If I find a way to test it out tomorrow I will."

"Well, with that, I believe that you are fine to leave. And I am sorry for your loss…you mentioned a brother and I assumed that-"

"Yes, thank you." I didn't mean to cut him off but I guess I just had a reaction to him mentioning Frisk…feels strange.

I make my leave after that and get back home the same way as last time. Immediately, I'm reminded of how I need to invest in a pet of some kind. With how big the house is I could probably dedicate an entire room, maybe two, to some animal like a cat. 

Gaster already covered the entire thing in his theory so I don't really have anything to talk about…I could check out Frisk's house, maybe…I can do literally anything yet can't decide on anything to do. What a curse.

Chapter Text

I think I'm beginning to go insane or perhaps something worse. Regardless, I was actually looking forward to the small hour-long chat today. Although, there was a small complication in the fact that Betty was more quiet than usual. She always did take abnormally long pauses and make odd expressions but has never been fully silent. Nearly started begging to be let out with how awkward it was.

That was awful, but necessary if I ever wanted to get anywhere with my personal goals. I do hope that I don't have to keep it up for long, though. I would prefer to be left with my thoughts without being jumpscared by patches of black infront of me. That freak really needs to go outside more, I wonder how he even gets here without blinding anyone…maybe he does.

The issue somehow got worse with it persisting for a week before a break was issued, thank whatever entity is watching over me. Still sucks though, with that being the main highlight of my day and all. Not sure what I am going to do now other than sit around and eat chocolate all day.

I could try traveling, maybe go find myself or whatever. There's a surprising amount of fun hobies that I guess it wouldn't kill me to try. The only issue is which one to choose…and if my physical appearance would cause issues with any. I hate being trapped in this childish body. Makes everything more complicated and annoying than it ever should be for me, especially anything related to romance.

Back to the original topic. I could work on my drawing or maybe get into something a bit more common like shopping, would get me outside more…don't know what I'd buy though. There's also something like photography, could hang up pictures to really personalize the place and replace a lot of the useless decorations I have…would also get me outside without having to be around people, doesn't sound bad.

One totally legally attained camera later and I'm walking to the local park. Its a nice place and with the sun covered by clouds it isn't unpleasantly hot…although it does allow me to, unfortunately, be more focused on the staring. It's not that bad with most minding their own business but it does still serve to fuel my misanthropy. 

Arriving at the entrance to the place I realize how I've forgotten how nice the place is. It's simple with seemingly random trees, circular path around a pond, and a large bridge over said pond. There's also some animals and probably plenty of insects too hiding in the grass. Despite that, it's nice with a good bit of actual nature to spite the rest of this place. I really wish there were more flowers, though.

I suppose that I'm just not use to such areas. A lot of things in this universe weren't in mine, with XGaster not even knowing what a school is…at least Toriel was a good teacher. It's honestly a little surprising how similar everyone is, although maybe its my fault for thinking that every universe would have everyone act differently…or maybe it's because XGaster based everyone off other universes.

As I make my way to the middle of the bridge over the lake I realize how awkward a name XChara is…still better than just having everyone say Chara, even if I would prefer it. Regardless, a small distinction is important. Anyways, time to take some photos or whatever I was doing. I imagine I would see more opportunities if I had more experience with this kinda stuff…or maybe nothing around here actually interests me.

As I wait for something to catch my attention I spot Undyne walking around, probably on patrol. Considering that I've been standing here doing nothing for so long I might as well go talk to her, plus it would be rude not to check up on her after that fight. As I approach her she seems to notice me first, already facing me by the time I'm around eight feet away from her.

"Hey, kid, you need something? I'm on the job right now." As much as I would love to correct her, I can't exactly say, 'oh yeah I'm actually sixty or whatever.'

"Well not exactly. I was just around here trying to take pictures or something to help personalize my house…I kinda over decorated. Anyways. I thought I would see how you're doing after that fight that put you out for a while."

"Well that's nice of ya, but don't worry too much. It'll take more than THAT to put me down!" Does she HAVE to speak so loud? That confident smile and pose to flex her muscles also serves to draw attention. "Speaking of, whats that punk up to now? Thought I would see her in a cell or something." Harsh…but deserved.

"Well she in a cell…of sorts. She's in some rehab facility. Although the room looks more like one of those insane asylum rooms. White padded walls and stuff with a pretty high tech door too." Should I really tell her that Betty's getting off without punishment simply because of the chance of redemption? I can't lie to her anyways. "Frisk seems to think that Betty has a chance at redemption, as he does, which is why she isn't in someplace more permanent. I was actually the one chosen to be the redeemer since every other candidate was too busy. Asgore asked and I couldn't deny." 

"HA! Of course he was the one to do it. He was always good with words, could move anybody!" She exclaims with a lot of truth in ber words. My Asgore managed to get me to stay positive when even Frisk couldn't. "Hm…I see why Asgore went to you, though. He talked about his human kid a lot…you probably remind him of them. Even I can tell the similarities when I've only heard descriptions! And that means he has high hopes for you, kid!! So don't let him down!!!" This would be more motivational if it wasn't attracting the attention of everyone in a one mile radius…at the very least I can appreciate the effort.

"Well…thanks…I appreciate the motivation…I'll keep it in mind through the whole process." I'm probably gonna leave after this. I should still get a picture out of it, though. "Uh, hey, I don't want this outing to be a waste so would you mind if I got a photo of you?"

"Heh, of course not, kid. Go for it!" She then strikes a pose that's…strangely familiar…All Might? Whatever. I hold up the camera I got and take what I assume to be a good picture. With that done I'm heading back home to figure out how to take this from digital photo to photo on my wall…

-

"Well that was easy. Just had to use something called a 'printer' or whatever. Cool stuff. It even looks nice." I almost wish that lasted longer. Now I have to find something else to do…

I'm down five boxes of chocolate milk and three bars of chocolate with no new ideas other than playing games or watching some show. I sadly have nobody to blame but myself for my lack of creativity. Maybe I could look up where a few flower fields are located…hm…not a bad idea.

-

This is…nice…reminds me of my time with Frisk. When things weren't as hope crushing and awful. Of course, it's different. There's more color around and Frisk isn't next to me no matter how many times I look to the side. 

The silence forces me to think on how I even got here. XGaster couldn't even travel to other universes without that Ink guy so how did I get here? Does that mean he can follow? What is he even doing right now? I hope he's dead but I think I would sense that somehow. I wonder if he can feel my worry. If he can, I am sure he's reveling in every second of it like any sadist would. Only makes me hate the soul in my chest even more despite how much I rely on it.

I probably shouldn't dwell on such things though. It's been a long time and I have other, much smaller, concerns here. Like I wonder whats up with Betty. Considering how I'm meant to be helping her I should probably know what's going on with her currently. I can assume that she's either sitting in that room still or maybe Gaster is doing something but that's it. Maybe once I'm done here I can go talk to Gaster. But…I don't wanna rush it. It's undeniably nice here, especially with my eyes closed…really heightens the experience.

-

After a nap in some field in a random country I teleport to Frisk's house and…wow. I almost forgot how square the place is…truly the pinnacle of house design. With that out of the way I let myself in and make my way to Gaster's little section. I don't say much to anyone on the way but me and Asriel do share a small glance…I suppose we both remind eachother of someone else. I wonder what this universe's Chara and Asriel got up to.

A few steps later and I'm in Gaster's little area. Very stereotypically science-y. I almost get too caught up accessing the place before my gaze ends up on Gaster as he looks back at me in confusion. 

"Do you want something? Or do you intend on standing there and distracting me?" 

"Right. I got distracted. Sorry. Anyways, I was bored and got to thinking about what's been going on with Betty. Well I was more focused on the fact that I should be concerned about what's been going on with her. I assumed that she was just left in that room or that you were planning something but I wanted an actual answer." I can already sense the disappointment.

"Well, I only had that break issued because I didn't want to waste our time. She's still being monitored, obviously, so for now I'm waiting on an update of some kind. Nothing of note has happened, if you're concerned with that, so unless you have anything else to ask I have things to do." I guess every Gaster is the same too. I can't exactly name it but the tone is just all too similar.

"Thanks, I guess…even if it isn't much. I've just been seeking thrills today and this was up next. I'll be going now." And with that I'm onto the next thing. I keep my eyes forward as I make my way out of the house to where I can freely teleport back home.

Now I really don't have anymore ideas, even after more chocolate. I think I'll just teleport to another flower field and rest there.