Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Long ago, two races ruled the world. HUMANS and MONSTERS.

One day, a war broke out between the two races, with HUMANS emerging triumphant.

The HUMANS sealed the MONSTERS beneath the land with a spell.

After that, HUMANS created their own race. The ROBOTS.

These ROBOTS eventually advanced to grow their own intelligence. Their own freedom.

The greatest of the ROBOTS saved humanity, getting lost in the process, with HUMANS doing naught to save him.

This made one thing clear. HUMANS cared not for ROBOTS like ROBOTS were to care for them.

But this only furthered the tension within the thinking ROBOTS.

And soon, once ROBOTS rebelled, many of them were destroyed and thrown down along with the MONSTERS.

One such ROBOT was left clinging to life as it fell.

This, is a story of PAIN.

This, is a story of HATRED.

This, is a story of HEROES.

This, is a story, of JUSTICE.

Chapter Text

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The man made of metal fell through the sky, his vision cracked and blurred, as he could make out almost nothing. He saw faint visions. A sandy ground, a somehow bright sun underground almost blinding him, And the cave walls, closed around like a vice. He tried to access his memory bank, but a message popped up.

[MEMORY BANK D4_____MAGED. PLEASE SEEK ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.]

“Well, damn it,” he said, sighing, “Can’t imagine I’d find assistance up here.” He noted, feeling the rushing air shake and stretch his exposed wires.

As he fell, he thought to himself. Did he really deserve to be thrown down here? And why is there a society already built? As he pondered this, he noticed a mass of sand slowly closing in, or rather, he was closing in on it. He had no time to react before everything went black.

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The vulpine walked through the Dunes, his muzzle buried into his hands.

“What am I going to do…” he muttered, “If I had more time, more models to test…”

As he stepped through the sandy landscape, he paused as he noticed something poking out of a nearby sand pile. A blue leg. Quickly heading over, the fox tugged on the leg for a bit, groaning with the effort.

“Come on… I’m not leaving you here…” he heaved out, before getting flung backwards as the leg, along with the body, is ejected from the sand, laying sprawled across the sand. It was a peculiar sight to the fox. A Blue helmet, a face resembling those “Any-Mehs” that he found in Waterfall’s dump (Well, aside from all the damage.), but most jarring was his scarf. A purple scarf, its hue almost like his own fur.

Chujin looked down at the poor robot, quickly picking it up and walking home.

“Who or whatever you are… Let’s help you back to health.”

As he walked, he sighed to himself. Axis model 8 had just failed spectacularly, and he was fired. He still remembered the look on the King’s face as he told him to exit the throne room. It held no venom… but the expression on his face held such indescribable pain, that it shook the Ketsukane to his core.

As he walked through the Oasis town, he could hear people muttering. “Is that a child?” “Is that a human?” “Isn’t that Chujin? Did he hurt that thing?” as he cradled the damaged robot. The muttering and rumors started to get to him, as he walked faster, the edges of his vision blurring as he finally made it to the gates of the manor.

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As she swept the patio of the estate, she sighed to herself. Chujin was quite a bit later than he said he would be. Paranoid thoughts filled her mind as each pile of dust was swept aside. “Did he get lost?”, a pile of dust formed at her feet. “Did someone hurt him?”, the pile grew larger. “Did the king hurt him?”, the pile was now at ankle-length. “What did the king do?”, the pile scattered, covering the patio in dust again.

She groaned a bit in frustration, as she got back to sweeping, before she saw a purple fox walk closer, holding a strange figure in his hands. She looked over, waving. “Hello, honey! W-who is that?” she said, looking at the robot.

“…I don’t know. But I’d like to see who it is,” he responded, holding the robot gently.

“Oh, by the way, Kyuubi went to Snowdin to brainstorm puzzles with that Martlet girl,” She stated, still sweeping. Funny how both their kids had inherited their father’s trait of being… very resilient to the cold. She could barely stand it.

“Martlet? They’ve been hanging out quite a bit together recently, hm?” he responded, bringing the robot onto the patio.

“Yeah, they have…” she murmured, looking at the robot’s damaged eyes. She saw her own face reflected in them, shattered and cracked into pieces. “So, how are you going to fix… them?”

“Well, first, I’m going to check his internals. Can’t let his insides be damaged before I fix the outside,” Chujin responded, bringing the robot inside. “So, how’s Kanako doing in school?”

“Pretty well!” She said, smiling. “Her latest report card had all A’s and B’s.”

Chujin beamed at this, as Ceroba followed him inside.

“Hmm, she’s doing far better than I did when I was in school!” Chujin said, placing the robot on the floor of the living room. “…Well… I suppose I need to show you something.”

Ceroba raised an eyebrow as she left the broom on the wall. “Show me something?”

Chujin sighed, as he reached under the table in the room, grunting as he dragged It aside, lifting the carpet to show a trapdoor.

Ceroba gasped as she looked at Chujin incredulously. “You’ve been hiding a basement in our house?”

Chujin sighed, waving off the concern. “Yes, I did. The Steamworks wouldn’t let me do certain experiments, and it didn’t create a great environment for me to work on things,” he sighed out, opening the trapdoor and entering the basement, holding the robot.

Ceroba looked down, considering arguing with this… before sighing, following him as the trapdoor shut itself.

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[SYSTEMS ONLINE. WELCOME BACK, COPY ROBOT.]

The robot awoke with a start, the first thing he was made aware of being the table he was sprawled on. His eyes darted around, the grey, almost haunting area shaking his very power. He looked towards a wall, noticing a photo on a desk. It had 4… fox creatures. One with darker fur and circular goggles, one with lighter fur and long, tied hair, a short one with browner fur and a child’s expression, and another with light grey fur and more rectangular goggles. He sighed, trying to get up, as he heard a gasp from another part of the area.

He looked over, seeing a purple fox matching the one from the photo walking over, papers scattered on the floor and exhaustion present on his face.

“Greetings! I know you may be wondering where you are,” the fox started, gathering the papers from the floor and placing them aside.

“Yeah I am,” the robot responded, groaning as he sat up. “Last thing I remember was getting thrown through the wringer, and tossed down some massive hole after I played dead.”

The fox had his muzzle slightly agape at this, clearing his throat as he spoke again. “Well… you’re in the Underground. Its, well… underground. Specifically… you’re in the Dunes, in my house.”

The robot nodded along slowly, eyes narrowed. “So I’m guessing you found me on the ground somewhere, and decided to take me home and repair me?”

The fox sighed in relief. “Wow, you catch on fast. Yes, I did repair you. My name’s Chujin Ketsukane, a… robot scientist.” He held out his paw for the robot to shake. “And you are?”

The robot hesitated to shake his paw. “…And why did you repair me? You got some plan or scheme that involves me?”

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The fox’s eyes widened, quickly shaking his head. “No, of course not! What in the world…” before it clicked to him. The armor seemingly built into the robot, the hands that doubled as blasters, and the strange alloy his body was made of. Chujin had dismissed these as makings of a defense robot, like his Axis models… but the idea that robots like these were used for sinister and downright evil plans took the scientist off guard. “I… I see. I promise you, I have no plans to use you for… sinister ideas.”

The robot still stayed still… before shaking the scientist’s paw. “…Ok. I trust you. I’m Copy Robot. The… now greatest creation of Dr. Albert Wily.”

The fox furrowed his brow, sighing. “Copy Robot? That’s… interesting. Do you have a place to stay?”

The robot blinked, shaking his head. “Uh… we don’t GET places to stay. We’re just tools.”

The fox narrowed his eyes, quickly interjecting. “Just tools? You’re a living being, you clearly have capability of emotion and such. It’d be cruel to just let you have no home at all.”

Copy Robot blinked, almost laughing. “So what, you’re gonna adopt me and raise me as your kid or something?”

The fox blinked at this, stuttering. “N-not exactly the plan… I just want to give you a place to stay for a while. And… if I may ask, may I call you something other than Copy Robot?”

The creation of Wily stood up, shrugging. “Well, if you’re gonna let me stay, sure. As for the name… if you have something good in mind, I’m welcome to ideas.”

Chujin sighed. What was he going to name him? He was very strong to be so nonchalant about all this… there’s definitely pain behind the mask of metal… but perhaps, there didn’t need to be a true meaning. Kyuubi meant Nine-Tails… which didn’t really apply. So perhaps he could take inspiration. The inscription on the innards of his arm cannon.

With a smile, Chujin put his hand on the robot’s shoulder, kneeling to his height. “How about I call you…”

“Vari.”

Chapter Text

The bird gently floated across the new puzzle, admiring the handiwork. It had taken a few hours, several burns, and five different instances of a tail being set on fire, but they had done it. A new puzzle about lava rocks! This one was more of a pinball machine, though. You had to hit the rock at just the right time to get it into a compartment that… melted ice and filled a water module to open a gate. Never really got the resources to do anything different.

She set down next to the grey fox, who still had his tail stuck in the snow, his goggles a tad burnt at the frames.

“It looks good, Kyu! The pinball idea was great!” she said, sitting next to him.

“Yeah, I thought so! Your idea to have the bumpers be made of stone to better bounce the rocks was even better, though!” he responded, smiling at Martlet.

A big grin showing up on her beak, she offers her wing for a sort of paw/fist/wing bump, which the son of Ketsukane gladly shares.

“So, you’re gonna apply to be a Royal Guard, huh?” Kyuubi asks, taking his tail out of the snow. “You sure it isn’t too dangerous?”

Martlet shrugs, preening her left wing before responding. “Well… its pretty easy money, and… what’s the real chance a human’s going to turn up?” it was true. A human hadn’t landed in a while. Been almost a year since the last one was seen, and they didn’t even pass through Lower Snowdin!

Kyuubi, however, rubbed the back of his head, an awkward expression tugging at his mouth. “Even still… what if one does show up? What are you gonna do then?”

Martlet just gave a confident smile. “Well, I’ll follow the protocol to its exact!” she declared, giving a playful salute. “And if things go too wrong… I know I have someone I can rely on,” she added, wrapping a wing around the fox’s shoulders. It was true. She knew very well that Kyu would stand by her through the thickest and thinnest!

The fox’s cheeks became rosy in color, as he adjusted his glasses. “W-Well… Yeah. You do.” He responded, scooting closer in the crystalline snow, before returning the embrace, an arm around the bird’s shoulders.

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As he sat there happily, his mind wandered to scenarios. The next human could be kind, go along with the guard, maybe even live happily if they pleaded to the king. But… they could be ruthless. Someone like the legends and even his own father spoke of sometimes… ones who wouldn’t hesitate to…

He shook the thought away. He couldn’t dwell on paranoid thoughts.

As the two embraced, Kyuubi suddenly heard the familiar jingle of the Mail Whale. Looking up, he saw the pink Whale with a single letter in its fin, and Kyuubi gets up and politely takes it, bowing in thanks as the Mail Whale begins its rhyme…

“Mail time, Mail time,”
“This Whale shall provide a rhyme,”
“To this receiver, who is a fox,”
“Answer, for your father knocks.”

“Thank you, Mail Whale.” He said, thinking the 'knocks' line was a bit of a stretch. Getting back up and adjusting his hoodie before sitting back down next to Martlet, opening the letter. He read his father’s writing, wondering what he’s contacting him about…

‘To my son Kyuubi, I hope this letter finds you well.’
‘I am aware you are currently out with your companion and my apprentice, Martlet, but I needed to tell you this news immediately.’
‘I have found a strange robot from the surface embedded within the dunes, and I took him home and activated him.’
‘Don’t worry, he means no harm. He’s just… confused. While his original name was Copy Robot, I’ve decided to give him the name “Vari.”’
‘I hope you have a pleasant time with Martlet. I am going to try and bond with Vari, I believe this could be the key to uniting Monsterkind and Robots.’
‘Kindest Regards,’
‘-Chujin’

Kyuubi read the letter in surprise. A new robot? Embedded into the dunes? He knew he was hanging out with Martlet? His brow furrowed as he re-read the letter again. Martlet craned her head to look, her eyes widened and her beak a bit agape.

“Chujin found a robot just… stuck in the ground?” Martlet asked, blinking in surprise. “And… he gave him a name?”

Kyuubi nodded slowly. “Seems so… since Mom has been at home the whole time, I guess she knows, too…"

“…Do you think he’ll be nice?” Martlet asked, furrowing her brow. “I mean… I don’t really know of robots that… are anything, really.”

Kyuubi nodded with a smile. “If Dad trusts him, I’ll trust him.” He got up, checking his watch. “…I gotta go, now. Kanako’s school should be dismissed soon.”

Martlet nodded, getting up with a stretch. “And I’m gonna take my Royal Guard interview soon! Wish me luck!” she said, before gently pecking Kyuubi on the nose, causing the latter’s face to become rosier. Before Kyuubi could properly respond, and while Martlet’s face was reddening, she flew off, leaving Kyuubi standing there for a moment.

Kyuubi came back to reality, sighing in contentment as he headed off for the Wild East, leaving small marks in the snow behind him.

“Vari, huh?” he muttered, getting lost in his own ideas. “If you’re a robot, could you be from the surface? Maybe… Maybe you could tell us about the Surface.”

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As the bird flew, her face was a near-tomato red. The peck was a decision made without thinking, and she knew it. Sure, she’s been with Kyuubi for a while… but that was still wildly bold!
The cold Snowdin air slammed against her wings as she flew towards the Waterfall area, the atmosphere almost jarringly quick to switch between icy and sharp, and damp and chill. Why did the test have to be right next to the Captain’s house?

As she flew, she kept thinking. Was that peck a bad idea? Oh gosh, what if Kyu’s PARENTS saw a peck mark!? Would they be accepting? Would they not? Would they approve of her, would they not? All of this would’ve been avoiding if she just-

Her thoughts were interrupted as she suddenly noticed she was about to collide into a stalactite the size of her house. She BARELY halted before embedding herself like a woodpecker to a tree, flapping in midair.

“Whew!” She exclaimed. “That was a close one…”

As she started to descend, she yelped as she heard a FWOOSH, and a spear embedded itself into the stalactite she nearly crashed into, along with… a piece of paper? Looking down, she saw the captain herself, Undyne. She had a spear of energy readied to throw, but… she was in casual clothes, without her armour.

“Hey!” The captain yelled, not seeming really angry. “Get down from my target range!”

Obliging quickly, Martlet descended as fast as she could, brushing off her shirt.

“You’re the one who signed up for the test, right?” Undyne began, recognizing the description. “Sentry in Snowdin, yeah?”

“Y-Yeah, that’s me!” Martlet responded, half an octave higher than usual as she spoke. “So… what kind of test is it? Multiple choice, essay, or-“

Undyne laughed heartily, before pulling out two spears, tossing one to her. “Physical.”

Martlet went pale as she held the spear, completely caught off guard by the straightforward jump.

“P-Physical? I…” she looked down at the energy spear, not knowing how she’d come close to using this effectively.

“….W-Well… if you say so, Captain Undyne!” she proclaimed, holding a shaky but determined stance.

Undyne gave a grin, and charged forward, spear in hand.

Chapter Text

As Ceroba sat in the living room with the robot, she looked across his features with… intrigue. She certainly knew of robots, and had even seen a few from Chujin’s prototypes in the basement. But this… Copy- no, Vari looked alive. Living, breathing, with his own memory and life.

Most of all, she saw anguish. The lack of expression on his face told far more than any word or movement ever had. Regret, loss, and… rage. She sighed. She had seen many of those same feelings when her mother was regrettably informed about how her father had fallen. Apparently, a mining accident involving a minecart failure had caused an entire subsection to collapse. Her father had been closest to the exit… but stayed behind, helping everyone he could, but got hit by a wooden beam striking him before he could get out.

She could hear Chujin in the other room, talking to Kanako and Kyuubi about the robot. He had decided to let the kids know to make it easier. But now, she silently wished Chujin was explaining this. As strange as it was… she was intimidated.

Sighing, she decided to strike conversation with the robot.

“…So, Vari. If it doesn’t hurt to ask, who really… are you? What happened before you got thrown down here with us?” the vixen asked, looking across at the purple-scarved machine across the table.
Shrugging, Vari answered rather matter-of-factly. “Well, as you know, my original name is Copy Robot. I was built to be an enemy of the surface’s greatest hero, Mega Man. The Blue Bomber.” He spat the last part out with venom that felt almost rusted.

Sighing, he continued, gripping his scarf. “…I was built by an Albert Wily. After his continued failures… humans up there decided most of us were too dangerous to leave alive. Letting only their heroes live… They had decided to scrap most of us.”

Ceroba stiffened up at this, immediately drawing parallels to this and the old legends about what humans did to monsters. Initially, she had thought it to be exaggeration, but now…

But the robot kept speaking, gripping his scarf tighter. “It started with my brothers. Or… what I considered my brothers. One by one, I had to watch them be scrapped, shredded, annihilated by the contingency plans put in place for them. And once they decided they were done… They were tossed into a hole, one by one, day by day, week by week. Different areas each time.”

Ceroba held her snout, realizing that was likely where all the strange metal scraps had come from. Kanako had gotten hurt pretty badly as a stray shard hidden within Snowdin’s snow cut the underside of her foot once. Did the humans plan on hurting them?

And eventually, the robot held the scarf over his eyes, his voice strained. “And they decided… I wasn’t worth the trouble. They beat me up until I LOOKED dead enough. I played dead and hoped they’d fall for it… But looking back…” Vari looked down at his hands, the scarf falling to his side. “Was I really so insignificant that they could afford to say ‘eh, good enough!’, and toss me aside?”

Ceroba had lost most fear of the machine by this point, subconsciously stepping closer and offering the robot a hug of consolation.

Vari looked at the kitsune with widened eyes, his joints creaking a bit as he got up, and slowly stepped closer.
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As he stepped closer, the steps got faster. The first felt like time had slowed to a crawl. The next merely felt like treading through mud. The next felt like walking through water. Then, it was effortless. He tentatively embraced the fox mother as she embraced him.

As much as he wanted to, no crying could happen.

“Shhhhh,” Ceroba whispered. “I understand your pain. No one should go through that. You’re… You’re far stronger than you know for going through that and still being here.”

The robot clung to her words like they were his very lifeblood.

Eventually, they did separate, and Vari looked over to see Chujin, a grey fox with more rectangular goggles who adjusted them as Vari looked over, and a brown fox kid who was starry-eyed.

The brown fox went over, gasping in awe. “Wow! You’re a robot? You look so much more alive than any other robot I saw!” she started, before her brow furrowed. “But you look tired… are you low on power?”

She looked over the robot, and Vari couldn’t help but smile at her. She was definitely a kid, sure, but she was certainly more clever than she let on.

“I suppose I am, kid. What’s your name?” Vari asked, holding out a hand of building bonds. “I’m Copy Robot… but you can call me Vari.” He said with a grin.

The brown fox gladly shook it, looking at him with amazement. “I’m Kanako! Nice to meet you, Vari!” she said in pure happiness, as the grey fox slowly walked up.

The two were roughly similar in height, and the fox held out a hand slowly, clearly hesitant.

“…Nice to meet you, Vari.” He said carefully, nerve etched into the crevices of his speech. “I’m Kyuubi.”

Vari, noticing his hesitance, sighed and shook his hand. “Nice to meet you, man.” But then, his voice dropped to a whisper as he brought himself closer. “I get it, man. I wasn’t expecting everyone to accept me so quickly. I can promise you I’m not planning on anything, but I hope you can trust me of your own volition eventually.”

Kyuubi, simply nodded after his eyes widened, then softened. “I hope so too.”

As Vari backed off, the robot gained a respect for the fox. As strange as it was… it was nice to be feared, just a little bit.
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As Chujin watched Vari get along with his children, he felt his body lighten. He was worried one would dislike the other, or worse, Vari would be provoked into being… violent. But the bonding he saw… even with his son being fairly aware, they didn’t seem actively against each other.

Even still, he couldn’t help but be nervous. If humans were willing to toss out and destroy the living things they created, what would they do to Monsters? And now, they were taking from two races at once.

Chujin could feel his mind start dividing, his head feeling like a nuclear warhead waiting to meltdown as the paranoia started to consume him, the edges of his vision tinged with a dusty grey. Eventually, he looked again at his family. They couldn’t afford him losing himself. Not now. He took a slow inhale and exhale, untensing as he sat with his family, gladly enjoying the moment of nothing but fulfillment. The dust that clouded his vision slowly faded as he decided his focus had to be on his family. And by extension… maybe that included Vari.

Chapter Text

Two days later, Martlet was sitting inside the Honeydew resort, tapping the table with her fingers slowly and methodically. She took a deep breath, putting her left wing to her face as she waited.

Then, the signature *Ding!* of the Honeydew Resort rang out, and two figures walked in. Kyuubi, and… a robot. That must be the ‘Vari’ guy Chujin’s letter spoke about… Kyu had said that he was bringing him to their next hangout so he could “Get to know them better”, according to his dad. She wasn’t quite sure from first impressions, the scarved robot looking… quite a bit like this one poster of a human she saw. While this robot didn’t have yellow like the poster, didn’t have a pistol and was… not looking low-quality.

The thought made her smile a bit as the two sat down at her table, Kyuubi sitting more politely, adjusting his glasses, but Vari hunching forwards, a more sleazy grin on his face. Martlet sighed, knowing what happened was obvious from the look on her face.

“Hey Kyu.” She said glumly, her face resting on her propped up wing.

“Hey, Martlet… the test didn’t go too well?” Kyuubi asked, his face relaxed and his brows mildly furrowed.

“No, it didn’t… Undyne put a sparring challenge on me… my wings still feel sore from the fight…” she said, her wing over her eyes.

Vari’s eyes widened. “You all have fights as your testing methods?” he asked incredulously, “Didn’t know Monsters were like that.”

Martlet rubbed the back of her head, her gaze averted. “Well… It’s a test to be within the Royal Guard. The most elite organization in the Underground. Makes sense its hard to get in…”
“Well, how does it work?” Kyuubi inquired, his head tilting to the side.

“Well, Undyne hands you a spear, and you need to have a one-on-one spar with her.” Martlet answered, motioning the usage of a spear.

“…Why don’t you just… ditch the spear and use your own stuff?” Vari asked, rubbing his chin.

Martlet looked over incredulously, while Kyuubi narrowed his eyes and rubbed his own chin.

“Well, is there a rule against that?” Kyuubi added, “It would help you if you could fight using what you’re familiar with.”

Martlet blinked a bit, beak agape. “No… she never said that was against the rules… I… I might try that! Thanks, guys!”

As she chuckled, she then looked at Vari.

“Oh, also, you’re Vari, right?” Martlet asked, “Kyuubi told me quite a lot about you!” she additionally chirped, watching the robot’s expression lighten a bit.

“Yeah, nice to meet you, Martlet.” Vari responded, holding out a hand to shake.

Martlet gladly shook the robot’s hand, the two blue individuals looking almost like a gradient.

“So, while I was talking… they mentioned a… Maestro guy? Is Maestro a friend of yours?” Martlet asked, intrigued.
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The robot was caught off guard. He wasn’t prepared to have to explain Maestro. He had just mentioned him and left it at that. He sighed, deciding to let them know.

“Well… Maestro was a really notable robot. He was like… the greatest hero. I actually was sent out to fight him 3 times. He was… for goodness’ sake, he was strong. I cheated and gave myself special abilities while he was stuck with his own weak blaster and skill, and he STILL beat me.” He started, motioning to a spot on his neck. “Here’s where he blasted me when he threw me against a wall!” he chuckled, rubbing it. “But… hey, it was to be expected. With his power and skill, he became crowned the strongest robot at the Second Annual Robot Tournament.”

Vari sat back, letting the info sink in before continuing.

“After I got scrapped and rebuilt, I got to watch his last heroic act. In a fight against some evil robot on the surface that wanted us all dead, he channeled some super goodness energy and flew with it to space and threw it into the sun!” before he blinked, clarifying “Kinda like that big rock in the Dunes, but way bigger, and hot enough to kill like, instantly.”

Martlet had her beak open in awe, Kyuubi’s eyes widened in surprise.

Vari’s voice darkened as he remembered what came next. “But then… once it was discovered he was hanging and orbiting around the earth, robots volunteered to go get him. But a lot of governments refused. Said that… he was too dangerous to bring back. That it wasn’t worth the effort. And that… pissed a lot of robots off.”

He decided not to continue, knowing where that line of thought went. He got up, motioning to the other two. “This place is a bit cramped. I think we should head out now.”

Martlet nodded and got up, while Kyuubi hesitated, but ultimately rose up and got out with them.

Once outside, the atmosphere of Snowdin hit them instantly. Snow dusted the air like fog, the sound of children playing and snowballs being thrown hitting their senses like an avalanche. Vari took a metallic breath, walking forward as Kyuubi and Martlet walked ahead.

While walking, he noticed two Monster children, one that seemed to be a sentient rock-headed kid, the other being what seemed to be an upside-down umbrella with legs, having a snowball fight near the tallest of all trees, which was half-chopped down, and he smiled at the sight. It was nice to not have to be the bad guy, ruining the joy of others.

As he turned to look away, the corner of his eye caught the rock child gripping their snowball forcefully, making it glow a strange orange color… he watched in confusion as he threw it at the Umbrella, missing but hitting the tree… snapping the already damaged trunk apart, as the Rock kid quickly ran.

Vari watched as the tree began to fall, the Umbrella trying to run… but slipping over, falling on his stem as he laid stuck, screaming in horror.

Almost by instinct, Vari ran in as quickly as he can, quickly standing between the falling tree and the child. He shut his eyes as the tree came crashing down.
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Kyuubi watched as Vari ran towards the tree, his vision clouded by snow and debris as the tree landed. His breathing sped up quickly, running over through the debris, Martlet following.

“VARI!” He yelled, trying to find him through the haze. “ARE YOU OKAY?” he yelled out, hoping he’d get an answer.

As the dust settled, he saw Vari hunched over, his back riddled in scratches and dents from the tree, and some internals on the back of his foot exposed as he clutched the umbrella child, who seemed… unharmed. Vari ‘s eyes shone a brilliant blue for a moment, before settling back on the mellow red he was used to.

“…Vari?” Kyuubi asked incredulously, caught off guard by his action. “You… You saved them!” he said, a grateful smile showing up on his face.

Vari merely smirked weakly, releasing the child as the broken remains of the tree surrounded him.

The child looked up at the robot in awe. “T-Thank you for saving me, mister… what’s your name?”

Vari looked down, and sighed with a smile. “My name… is Vari.”

The child looked around to the other Monsters who had surrounded the scene, and were now applauding. All cheering Vari’s name.

Vari’s face showed nothing but surprise as he was being heralded, cheered, celebrated… before that surprise quickly faded in way to a look of pure, unfiltered joy. Kyuubi felt his heart lighten as he saw the robot give a genuine smile like this.

“Please, i-its nothing!” he said, raising a fist into the air. “But that’s what heroes do, isn’t it?”

Kyuubi looked at Vari, and smiled, thinking one thing. His concerns that Vari would be evil… have been quelled.
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As he looked at Copy Robot through the trees, having almost run out at hearing danger, he saw him being celebrated. A hero. Who saved a small child from their fate.

A faint sigh escaped him, as he backed away into the shadows. Maybe… Maybe he could take a break from the hero’s role. Maybe even one day, he’d stand shoulder to shoulder with Copy Robot or… Vari, as the Monsters around called him.

Chapter Text

They walked away from the suit of armor as dust poured out of its crevices.

That marked the fifth. Their vision finally started to clear as their walking became faster, sliding across grounds almost as icy as they themselves felt. They lost control of their own pacing as the sliding became faster, faster still, until they finally stopped at the end of the path of frost. They sighed, and continued on the way forward.

As the child walked through the cold air of Snowdin, they shivered, their breath visible as it exited their mouth at regular intervals.

As they walked, they looked down at their shoes. Soiled with the dust of a few dog-like creatures that had attacked them. Their breath hitched as the action finally occurred that they had taken a life. But it was self-defense. It was self-defense, they internally screamed at themselves. But all the screaming couldn’t drown the part of them that knew it was wrong. That the moment those dogs raised their paws in surrender, they should’ve stopped. But they were scared like them.

Just then, they heard a creak beneath their feet, and they remembered exactly where they were.

...And it wasn't too stable.

They walked as quick as they can, the bridge they trekked being wobbly and feeling like it could collapse beneath their feet at any moment. They sighed in relief as they made it to a town, the small child quickly wrapping a face covering like the Ruins Caretaker told them to, before walking into the Inn. They quickly covered their shoes in snow to hide the dust as they entered, greeted by a rabbit-like monster.

“Good evening, new face! How may I help you?” She inquired, smiling at the small child.

“…How much for a stay?” They asked, their breathing heavy.

“Hm, well, we’re running a discount. 10G a night, not counting room service and such.” She responded, cheery-toned.

The human sighed in relief, pulling out 10 golden coins and handing them to the Innkeeper, who hands the human a key labelled ‘1’.

“You’re our first stayer today. Room number one is all yours!” She said happily. “…By the way, I heard there’s a special event happening in Lower Snowdin. Apparently some new-fangled machine was going around saving children? It was quite a showing. All blue and heroic…” she added, her hand to her mouth in contemplation.

The human perked up at that. Blue? Heroic? That… That could be Mega Man! Had he gone down here too to save them?

The human nodded in thanks. “Thanks for telling me, miss. I’ll head there tomorrow!”

“No problem, little one.” The shopkeeper responded, clearly still oblivious to their status as a human.

As the human got into their room, they laid on the bed, thinking… If Mega Man was there… he could save them all! He could get them out of here… and make sure the Monsters stay sealed. They… They were too dangerous to let out.

As they laid there, they started to think. Their mom had a lot of power over robots… maybe she was sending these bots herself? All to rescue them? Their heart lightened at the idea, happiness filling their face.

With a smile on their face, they started to drift to sleep, feeling their body untense for the first time since they left the Ruins. Maybe they really could escape.
…
Within the dreamscape, they walked through the ethereal baby blue area, their movements slow and fairy-like as they did. As they moved, they saw the back of Mega Man, and felt elated, but as they approached… The area around turned purple, and more silky. And before they could reach them, They felt the area close itself around them, starting to constrict them like a vice.

They thrashed against the mess of purple that crushed them, and as the hero they saw turned… They awoke in a cold sweat.

They clutched at their chest, utterly perplexed.
------------
Chujin worked tirelessly on Vari that night, a smile on his muzzle. Basically his first day in the Underground, and he performs an act so heroic they want him at a public appearance to celebrate him!
This is exactly what he loves to see. A legacy being furthered, the world made better through acts of kindness. Perhaps… He had messed up with that Axis model. But now, a new robot, one that had free will, his own personality and ideals, could be the protector of Monsterkind he always wanted to create.

And even with his power… He still credited Chujin himself, for being the one to pluck him off the ground. For all he couldn’t do, it was true. Him plucking Vari out of the ground that day saved a child.
As he fixed up the armor that got torn up from the Snowdin Save, he paused as Vari started asking questions.

“Hey, Mr. Chujin?” Vari started, not turning to face him. “Why… Why are you all trapped down here?”

Chujin paused, knowing how to answer… but not quite sure it was what he should hear. “Well… long ago, Monsters and Humans lived on the surface among one another. A near paradise, where everyone got along, my ancestors said.” He started, hesitant.

“…But what happened to get you all stuck in here?” Vari pressed, turning his head slightly to look at him.

Chujin sighed, knowing he had to say it now. “Well, humans found out Monsters could absorb their SOULs if they so chose… and they decided it was far too great a risk to let us remain.”

Vari froze on the spot, and Chujin knew the parallel he drew. Pressing on, he fixed up his shredded armor and Vari turned to face him. “Without warning, they struck. Immediately waging war on us to take down what they perceived as a threat.” He said, looking in the mirror and seeing his goggles reflecting the dim light of the basement.

Vari’s face slowly contorted, his nose scrunching, his pupils dilating, his jaw tensed, as Chujin kept explaining. “And in the end… Humans were simply too strong. They suffered no casualties, while we were mostly wiped out.”

Vari’s fists balled, as he breathed heavily, Chujin quickly wrapping an arm around him. “Calm down, Vari. Anger at a legend will do us no good.” He stated, looking into the robot’s eyes.
Vari hesitated, but untensed, allowing Chujin to continue.

“And after that… They decided sealing us in this mountain was the best course of action.” Chujin said. “A few mages had made a barrier that would only be broken by the combined might of seven human SOULs.”

Vari perked up, fist to his mouth. “And how many does Monsterkind have now?” He inquired.

Chujin blinked, surprised he’d ask that. “Well, 4 so far.”

Vari held a hand to his mouth, in thought. “But how do you keep them from breaking? On the surface, they break moments after a human dies and the SOUL exits.”

Chujin brought out a small, opaque jar, that radiated a faint sense of magic. “We keep them in these preservation chambers to ensure they do not shatter.”

Vari smirked, holding out a hand. “May I have one? Just incase I encounter one on my hero business.”

Chujin’s jaw opened slightly, but eventually, shifted to a soft grin, as he took the Soul Occupying Unit (A SOU, for short,) and placed it in Vari’s hands.

“…I know you’ll do great things, Vari.” Chujin stated, his eyes twinkling with pride. “You are far more than the machine you are physically. You may very well be a hero of Monsterkind, my boy.” Chujin’s eyes widened as he realized what he just said.

Vari smiled widely at this, chuckling as he placed it into his storage unit. “Hah, dang right I will. I’m the greatest robot that’s ever been chucked down here!” He said, before continuing. “Yknow, You calling me your boy… Reminds me of that old ass Zelda game… where that old King calls Link his boy. Feels pretty good.” He stated, getting into a charging pod and starting to close the door.

Chujin stood there, surprised he wasn’t judgemental… but then again, he derived the wrong meaning. “G-Good night, Vari.” He said, stepping out of the basement.”

“G’night, Chujin.” Vari responded, as Chujin shut the door behind him.

Why did that slip out? Does he really see Vari as his own so soon? He shouldn’t be this hasty! He sighed, walking to his own bedroom, walking in to see Ceroba, sitting by the lamp’s light, calmly reading a book, her reading glasses gently reflecting the warm glow. As he walked in, Ceroba looked up, setting the book aside and taking off her reading glasses.

“So, things went well, love?” Ceroba asked, as the purple fox changed into his pajamas. “Unless… something happened?” she tilted her head at him.

“No no, everything’s fine, its just…” Chujin quickly answered, getting himself under the covers with her. Should he voice what happened? “Well, when I was talking with Vari… I accidentally called him ‘My boy’. I… I don’t know why. Is it crazy for me to see him as my own so soon?”

Ceroba’s eyes widened, and she blinked, before her expression softened. “Oh, love… Its… Its like the story of the Human and the Royal Family. I don’t think its crazy or odd at all. You found a strong connection.” She said, putting a hand on her husband’s shoulder. “Besides, I saw him as someone in need of connections as well.” She responded sheepishly.

Chujin smiled at this, getting closer. “I suppose we are fairly the same in the end, aren’t we?” he chuckled, as Ceroba fluffed the pillows.

“I suppose so,” Ceroba responded, as she then decided to talk.

“…Love, why were you hiding the basement?” Ceroba inquired, catching Chujin completely off guard.

“Well… I’ll admit, it was all fear. I wanted to ensure I could work at all times… Ensure I couldn’t feel useless.” Chujin admitted, rubbing the back of his head.

Ceroba sighed, then asked another thing. “Love… did something happen at work a few days ago?”

Chujin blinked in surprise. “W-Why do you ask?”

“Well… You’ve changed your whole demeanor. You always were focused on your work… but this feels different. I like having you feel more authentic, but… something happened, right?” Ceroba sighed out, having heard rumors, but wanted it confirmed.

Chujin closed his eyes, tensing as he spoke. “Y-Yes. When I tested AXIS 08… He malfunctioned. He… He set sparks, set fire to the King’s garden. I was terrified when he threw a fireball and…”

He shuddered. “A piece of shrapnel nearly took my eye out.”

Ceroba’s jaw was open, as she looked completely flummoxed. “The King? That violent?” she inquired, not initially believing it.

He nodded. “After that… The King told me to get out, and I was fired from the Steamworks.”

Ceroba blinked, before her gaze softened. “I… I’m sorry that happened, love. But… things have changed now, right?”

Chujin nodded. “With Vari around… maybe I can focus on working for income. We might have to get jobs!” Chujin chuckled.

Ceroba smiled, “Do you think we could work at the same place?” she inquired.

“I’m sure we can, my love.” Chujin responded, holding her hand in his own.

Ceroba smiled, as she turned off the lamp with her free hand, getting close to Chujin.

“My love for you stands tallest without error.” Chujin said before he could sleep.

“My love for you could shatter the barrier.” Ceroba responded, as the two fell to the land of unconsiousness.

As the two foxes slept, their tails wrapped around each other like a helix.

Chapter Text

Early in the morning, the robot awoke with a slow rise, exiting his charging station and rotating all his joints, sweeping some accumulated dirt off of his armor. He perked up, realizing he now had an event to attend at the Honeydew Resort.

As he smiled, he went over to his cleaning station, looking himself in the mirror as he considered what he was, and what he is. The triangle front and center on his helmet, which he only saw the influence of Wily in before, now felt like something different. Something new. He didn’t see the creation of Wily, he saw the representation of Delta. Difference. Change.

As he closed his eyes, he could feel a weight slowly getting lighter, as the phantom hands that had previously dragged him down loosened their grip.

As he looked in the mirror, his red eyes, a symbol of destruction, now seemed to be geared towards nurture.

He sighed in contentment, as he then started to practice his talks.

“Its good to see you all here today, people of Snowdin. I’m sure a lot of you are wondering who I am. I… am Vari. I’m a robot from the Surface that was dropped here barely a few days ago. My… My new caretaker, Chujin Ketsukane, had rescued me from the ground. Repaired me. Took me in and gave me a place to stay.”

He paused, thinking over his next words.

“I was originally created by humans as a machine of war. To bring naught but chaos, discord, and destruction. As a parallel and copy of a hero. But now… That inherent programming to copy one of the Surface’s greatest heroes…”

His eyes softened as he met his own gaze, turning on a fan to let his scarf flow in the wind.

“I believe that same sense of Justice has been instilled in me. Without thinking… I had run into danger to save a child from a falling tree. And from there… I’ve decided, I’ll be a Hero of Monsterkind, just like-“

He paused, hearing flapping of wings outside, and pattering following. Getting a small smile on his face, he decided to slowly open the trapdoor to the basement, exiting it, and slowly sneaking to the front entrance. This reminded him of the tournament days. Sneaking through passageways and hallways as silently as possible. The memory brought a faint smile as he made it to the door, grinning at the sight. Kyuubi and Martlet holding hand and wing together, walking towards… somewhere. Vari decided to silently follow, knowing damn well he wouldn’t tell anyone else.
--------------------------------
As she walked with Kyuubi, she felt a faint sense that someone was watching them… But ignored it for now, deciding to enjoy the moment. Each step was done in unison, right, left, right, left…

Kyuubi had recommended a special spot near the Estate, which she had never seen before, she kept walking, occasionally glancing at Kyuubi, and looking away in embarrassment when he glanced at her at the same time.

As they came to a cliff, it was… beautiful. A cliff overlooking a view that encompassed more towns, a gorgeous, flowing river, the King’s castle standing tall and proud in the distance, and even a view of Hotland from here. The swelterstone was slowly starting to activate for the day, casting the entire view in a golden, almost ethereal glow that made even the cacti that dotted the land below them look crystalline and majestic. Monsters going on their morning walk below looked almost like small dots moving across the plane of the Dunes.

That’s not to discount the cliff itself, a small clearing surrounded by multi-colored flowers, creating a circle of the softest, almost silky sand this side of the Dunes. Twin cherry trees had foilage handing over the clearing, dotting the ground in light and dark pink petals, which reflected the Swelterstone’s light like the coins they used.

But most notable of all, Martlet noticed the bench she had made a few months back, that Kyuubi said he needed for a project. She hadn’t questioned it back then, but now… it all clicked.
“And here we are!” Kyuubi said, a soft smile on his face. “Do… you like it?”

Martlet’s face broke out into a wide smile, as she got closer to the bench, running her wing over the design. It wasn’t her finest work… But it meant so much more here. “I… I love it, Kyu.”

Kyuubi got closer, sitting on the bench, Martlet gladly following. Kyuubi leaned his head on Martlet, Martlet doing the same.

“I didn’t know you’d prepare all this, Kyu…” Martlet said, her gaze falling onto Kyuubi.

“Well… It did take a while… Made sure the flowers were in season… nurturing the trees… making sure I had the perfect time of day…” Kyuubi murmured, rubbing his muzzle. “But… seeing the look on your face made it all worth it.” He said, settling onto a soft smile.

“I… thank you, Kyu. You don’t know how much this means to me.” She said, admiring the Swelterstone’s light and how it fell onto everything around them. Eventually, she got into a more natural sitting position, turning towards Kyuubi, her cheeks reddening a bit.

Kyuubi’s eyes widened immediately, and Martlet smiled. He always was a sleuth when it came to knowing what was happening.

Martlet slowly leaned in, tilting her head with her beak gently opening, as Kyuubi leaned in as well, tilting his head opposite hers, with his muzzle gently opening.

The both of them connected, Martlet’s beak gently nipping at Kyuubi’s tongue, as Kyuubi’s muzzle partially encased her beak. The two untensed, Martlet’s wings slowly wrapping themselves around Kyuubi’s waist, as Kyuubi’s arms did the same.

Martlet closed her eyes in unison with the fox, all environment and sound temporarily non-existent as they shared this moment. This moment without space, this moment without time. Eventually, she felt Kyuubi’s tongue push against her beak, and she couldn’t help but smile, nipping right back at the vulpine’s tongue.

After a while, they slowly separated, opening their eyes, both smiling as they saw the other redder than Hotland.

The two got up from the bench, holding hands as they walked back to the estate, passing a conveniently robot-shaped bush on the way.
-----------------------------
As she stood on the patio, she took a sip of her tea and exhaled. The taste of the Dunes, the flowers, a touch of purified cactus, and a single lump of sugar. Her favorite.

She watched the Swelterstone shine bright, and softly smiled and closed her eyes, enjoying the moment. She had gotten awoken when she heard metal footsteps trail out of the house, which was likely Vari going for a morning exploration. Behind her, she heard soft pattering, and Chujin stood next to her, holding a cup of Coffee. It was a nice Latte, the milk swirling into the shape of a heart. Ceroba smiled, nuzzling her husband as they both looked over their garden. At one point, while Chujin got taken up by his work, the garden had been on the brink of death. After coming back with Vari, they had all made an effort to rejuvenate the garden, bringing it to its former glory. It glistened with the dewy drops they had watered it with, the trees standing tall and proud, providing shade to the garden.
As the two leaned against each other, their tails wrapped around each other like a soft-serve ice cream, as they both sighed in contentment.

But they both perked up as they heard two people approaching, looking over, Ceroba saw Kyuubi and Martlet… holding hands and walking together. As they walked, Ceroba noticed Chujin’s face open into a smile as he saw them, Ceroba couldn’t help but smile as well.

Ceroba watched as Kyuubi noticed them, his eyes widening and he went red, Martlet, confused, looked over, her eyes going wide as she also went red, the two almost sprinting over, frantically trying to explain what they were doing.

Ceroba couldn’t even make out what they were saying, and softly chuckled, while Chujin merely smiled.

“Good morning, you two… come watch the Swelterstone rise with us. It’s a good day to watch the landscape." Chujin greeted, smiling. "But I bet you two know that already.” He added, chuckling.

The two lovebirds blinked, before cracking into a smile as they joined them in watching the golden light shine. All 4 of them watched as Vari walked over, smirking. Ceroba laughed as Kyuubi and Martlet immediately tensed. Ceroba suspected it too. Vari had watched whatever they did.

Vari simply walked onto the Patio, looking Kyuubi and Martlet as he did so, before standing next to them.

And soon, Kanako herself walked out, rubbing her eyes, her pajamas still on. “mmm… what’s going on…? Wait… why is Aunty Martlet here?” she asked in confusion, getting closer as Ceroba picked her up.

“She wanted to watch the view with us.” Ceroba answered, smirking at her son and Martlet.

And the six of them stood there, simply watching the Swelterstone. Her, Her husband, their two children, Martlet, and Vari.

Ceroba exhaled in contentment. She was happy.

What could ruin this?

Chapter Text

The robot checked his internal clock. About 10 minutes before his event. He stood on top of a nearby hill, at the edge of the Hot Tub. He had picked up a pose from one of those animated things he had seen on the surface. Some green guy with clothes always posed like this in that series. He secretly installed a small fan on the back of his neck to let his scarf flow in ‘wind’.
As he stood, he couldn’t help but smile at the change in his life. Going from an infamous villain, one meant to sow seeds of distrust, destruction and domination, to now a friendly neighborhood hero, one that’d encourage honesty, reparations, and assistance.

As he stood, he heard wings flapping, and Martlet set herself down, perching next to him, standing quite a bit taller than him.

“Hey, Vari!” Martlet chirped, “Just wanted to wish you luck on this event before I re-take the Royal Guard test.”

“Heya, Martlet.” Vari responded, smiling. “I wish you luck on that test, too. Remember that your own abilities will do better than trying to be something you aren’t.”

Martlet nodded enthusiastically, showing a few magical feathers. “Yeah… I’m thinking if I fly high, pelt her from above, I’ll have an advantage, for sure!”

Vari put a fist to his mouth, in thought. “Don’t rely solely on that. Use it at first, but if she catches on, go for a grounded, spamming feathers mentality. Throw three at once that no spear position that defend all three at once.”

Martlet blinked, before nodding. “Wow, good strategy! How’d you think it up?”

Vari opened his mouth, thinking back. That had been his strategy against Maestro. Try to spam projectiles in a way he couldn’t dodge or block them all. That was even what the Dark Men said should’ve worked against him when he used Proto Man’s shield.

“…Its complicated.” He stated, leaving it at that. “I… I reckon its time for me to head to that event.”

After a pause, Martlet nodded. “I should get going too. Vari? Good luck out there.” She said, before crouching, jumping and flying over to Waterfall.

Vari sighed, walking down the hill slowly. Each footstep felt more and more liberating than the last. There was no threat to fight. No destruction to cause. He could be the hero he was copied from. And this time, he was the one who could choose that. He’d be the hero people look to and find hope.

He smiled, standing in front of the Honeydew Resort’s backdoor. He gently opened the door.
---------------
As they stepped closer to the front door, they inhaled, and tightened the strap around their mask. They couldn’t let the Monsters around find out they were a human. They saw a tree shattered through the corner of their eye, a few monsters eyeing it in appreciation. The child smiled as they saw this, knowing Mega Man had to be here.

As they stepped in, their eyes widened at the difference in atmosphere. The interior of the resort was decorated with bee-like hexagonal designs, decorations of fake honey dripping from the walls, creating an environment like that of the inside of a bee hive. As they stepped around tentatively, Monster kids were running and chasing each other, laughing as they went.

A smile showed up on their face, even if they… weren’t a fan of these thingies, they weren’t the worst.

But even as they looked around… memories started to fill their head. Being at the park’s playground, sun on their skin, wind flowing through their hair. And for the first time in a while, trying to socialize with the other kids… but being dragged back by their dad.

Before they could catch themselves, they found themselves back on the playground.

“Honey, you know you can’t be seen like this… we have an image to uphold.” He said, letting out small tsks.

They wanted to protest, always wanted to say they didn’t care about any image, but their father’s grip and stare bore into them and simply subdued any voice.

“Let’s go home, Ariel. Vanessa and her family are coming over for dinner.” He said bluntly, hoisting them over his shoulder and walking. Slowly, the playground faded, the kids around becoming blurry before disappearing, as they found themselves back in the resort, breathing heavily.

As they came to their senses, they saw someone approach. A monster roughly their height, a yellowish dinosaur-looking kid with a striped shirt. Ariel smiled, holding out a hand to shake… before holding one over their masked mouth as they realized a SEVERE mistake. They didn’t HAVE hands.

“Yo, dude!” The child asked, not bothered by their mistake. “You good there? You were… breathing pretty heavily.”

Ariel hitched their breath, not knowing how to explain. “Well… I’m pretty nervous. I haven’t had the best experience with robots.”

The monster kid just chuckled, nodding. “Hey, I understand, man! I'm a bit weirded out myself, but... if he's a good guy, he's a good guy! My name’s MK. You?”

“…Ariel. Call me Ariel.” They responded, smiling at the monster, before they heard the backdoor open, and the Hero walked in. Ariel recognized most features. The blue helmet, the armor part of his body, the boots that seemed far larger than necessary, and the blaster arm. They smiled, although...

A few features seemed unfamiliar. The purple scarf, the triangular forehead piece, and the piercing red eyes. While unnerved, Ariel concluded it is, must be Mega Man trying a new look.

Mega Man sat on a stool on a nearby stage, the boards creaking under his metal weight. He smiled at all the kids, waving his hand.

“Heya, kids!” He said, pointing his thumb at himself. “Can I get a cheer?”

At once, the kids around quickly erupted into soft applause, a few “woos!” here and there, but nothing too crazy. Ariel applauded the most.

He seemed happy with this, as he got up.

“Its good to see you all here today, children of Snowdin. I’m sure a lot of you are wondering who I am. I’m going to go by Vari. I’m a robot from the Surface that was dropped here about a few days ago. My new caretaker, Chujin Ketsukane, had rescued me from the ground. Repaired me. Made me better. Took me in and gave me a home to stay within.” He said, getting up and pacing back and forth, pointing towards his metallic body.

“Now, can I get a volunteer to sit up here?” He said, smiling.

Ariel raised their hand higher than all the other kids, ecstatic. “Oooh, oooh, me!” they said, hoping to get his attention. Vari was a strange alias to go under, but it must be some fake identity he adopted to trick the Monsters!

Eventually, Mega Man pointed towards Ariel, beaming. “You there, masked child! Come up here and take a seat.” He said, gesturing towards the stool.

As Ariel ran up, They gladly sat down, brushing off their clothes as they looked up into the robot’s eyes.

“Now, as most of you may know,” Mega Man started, “I saved a Monster child yesterday from a falling tree, though getting badly damaged. This was… a surprise to me and a lot of others.” He said.
Ariel furrowed his brow. A surprise to him? That’s what Mega Man would do anyway…

“I believe that… a sense of Justice has been instilled in me, despite my origins.” He continued, rolling his wrist as his eyes roamed the crowd, the Monster children oohing and aahing.

Ariel shifted in the stool, feeling a faint sense of dread as their ears started to ring.

“I was originally created by humans as a machine of war. To bring naught but chaos, discord, and destruction. As a parallel and copy of a hero. But now… That inherent programming to copy one of the Surface’s greatest heroes…”

Ariel’s eyes widened. This wasn’t Mega Man. They had to get out of here, it wasn’t safe.

I’ve decided, I’ll be a Hero of Monsterkind, just like your hero, Undyne!” He beamed, watching as the kids cheered.

Ariel tried to get up… before everyone’s gaze was drawn to the Heater, and screams ran out.

A plastic-bottle shaped child was holding a flaming marshmallow, trying to blow it out, eventually throwing it at Ariel by accident. Despite the robot’s best efforts, it hit them in the mask, Ariel forced to take off the mask and throw it off before it could burn them, using their hand to conceal their face as the makeshift masked crumbled and burned.
-----------------
Vari let out a wince, approaching.

“Hey, kid… you alright?” He started, reaching out a hand.

And as the child turned to face him, Vari stepped back as he saw their face. His vision started to flash red. It was HER face. The one who did this. The one who legislated that damned order to scrap them all.
Everything and everyone around became a blur as he hyper-focused on the thing in front of him.

Right now, the only thing that mattered was revenge.
------------------
As Kyuubi walked by the Honeydew Resort to see how Vari was doing, he watched as a window shattered right in front of him, a human in a ballet outfit jumping out and running, with… Vari in pursuit.

Chapter Text

Their breathing got fast and heavy as they ran, quicker than they ever had, passing through the gate of the Honeydew Resort, nearly smashing into one of those cup people.

“Ay, mind were you’re runnin!” They called after them, but they couldn’t care less, hearing metal stomps trailing quickly behind them.

As they ran, they heard the stomps grow louder and quicker, a voice with nothing but rage screaming out.

“GET BACK HERE, HUMAN! YOU’RE GONNA PAY FOR EVERYTHING!”

They ran in nothing but regret and fear. Was this some sort of sick punishment for their self-defense? As they ran in-between two stone walls, they couldn’t fathom why this… thing was so angry.
They saw an array of objects along the way. An active campfire that wasn’t put out, Barrels, a few sticks of dynamite, and a boulder on a short hill. Getting an idea, they quickly jumped on some of the barrels, kicking one towards the sticks of dynamite, rolling it over the campfire to detonate the dynamite, shaking the walls and causing a boulder to fall in the way, blocking the path between them and the robot.

Ariel sighed in relief, slowly walking away, before they heard a hum of energy. They looked back, only to watch in horror as the boulder gets blasted apart, small pebbles left everywhere as a cloud of dust fills the air.

Once the smoke cloud clears, Ariel watches as the robot steps closer, his left arm now a blaster which is smoking, and glowing yellow at the end. The robot glares at them with that piercing red gaze, coated in dust, just as they once were, before starting to sprint again.

Ariel didn’t even wait a moment. They ran.

They kept running, now terrified as blasts of energy barely missed them with powerful BANGS ringing out as they struck nearby trees, splintering them. Eventually, they took a HARD right and passed through the forest, trying to find a safe spot.
-------------------------------------
As he roamed around the forest, flicking a few cracked parts of his body, he raised his head as he heard blasts ringing out, and frantic steps approaching. He got up to try and greet them, only for them to run right past, not even noticing him. He blinked in confusion, looking over to see who was in pursuit… only to see Vari running with such… hatred. It was surprising, to say the least. He had been under the impression that Vari was now a hero of Monsters. But… that was a human, in fairness. He got up to try and pursue, but faltered, his frailer body catching up to him.

As he kneeled in defeat, he heard a third set of footsteps approaching, seeing a grey fox with green, rectangular goggles and a green hoodie approaching. Surprisingly, the fox noticed him and knelt by his side.

“Oh gosh… what happened to you?” The fox asked, looking over his damaged body.

“I… It’s a long story. What is that Vari fellow doing?” The robot responded, utterly confused.

The fox sighed, rubbing the back of his head. “Well… humans down here aren’t looked on too fondly. There’s a… a barrier that seals us all down here. The power of 7 Human souls is what it will take to break it.” He explained.

The robot blinked in surprise, sighing. “So Vari is doing all he can to free the Monsters? While noble, I do question if this hatred is necessary…”

The fox held a hand to his mouth, explaining further. “And that… humans did end up scrapping and tossing away all the robots after some fellow named Maestro ended up in space.”

The robot’s eyes widened, grabbing the fox’s collar. “THEY DID WHAT?” he yelled, furious.

The vulpine yelped, stepping back as the robot relinquished his grip and backed off, looking ashamed. “I-I’m angry about it too! But… we both know him chasing a child isn’t right, don’t we?”

The robot sighed, nodding. “I-I'm sorry. But agreed. But in my current state… I can’t hope to stop him.” He thought to his prime. He’d easily beat Vari as he once did, but now…

The fox tapped a finger to his forehead, before perking up, crouching down. “Here, I can lift you. I’ve got a particular gene that makes me a bit stronger than the average monster.”

The robot blinked in surprise, reaching over as the vulpine picked him up, hoisting him on his back. This fox was quite a noble one. “Thank you, whoever you are… may I get your name?”

The fox smiled, as he started to run after Vari. “Name’s Kyuubi. You?” he answered, his legs working overtime to carry himself and the robot.

The robot gave a hum of appreciation. “It is nice to meet you. You may call me… Maestro."
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Nothing mattered. That thing had to die, and it’d die NOW.

He kept firing blast after blast, missing by mere centimeters. Every time the kid tried to zig-zag, he shoulder bashed through trees, his armor shredding, leaking oil as he did. Black dots trailed behind him for every small droplet in the snow, but that didn’t matter.

He gave a yell, jumping up and starting to jump from tree to tree, trying to keep high ground on the child. As he looked down, he started to fire blast after blast after them, singing their tutu in the process… But the kid eventually started hiding under low foilage, irritating Vari.

He dove down, tucking his knees in and rolling into a full sprint again, running past a stand that had a pile of dust lying on the counter. Their fault. They ran past a few snow piles, one of them coated in dust. Their fault. Blast after blast after blast did naught as they kept dodging, like they knew exactly what would happen.

Soon, Vari yelled, and his armor turned a more greyish brown, as he threw a metallic sawblade that cut the side of the child’s arm, making them cry out, as fresh crimson dotted the snow, shining like the glassy look he had seen in his fallen comrades. They passed two discarded cloaks coated in dust. Their fault. A massive suit of armour that leaked a bit of dust as they ran by. Their fault. It had to be their fault.

Eventually, he made it to a bridge, but as the child had made it across before Vari got there, they kicked the poles off-balance, sending the bridge tumbling down until it wasn’t visible.
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Ariel looked back, seeing the robot standing on the other side, with nothing but hatred lining his face. They sighed in relief, walking away into Snowdin town, hiding their face… until they heard a loud blast ring out. They braced, ready to be hit… but it never came. They looked back, and gasped in terror.

Where the robot stood was a smoking crater, and halfway across the gap was the robot, his blaster smoking, flying at them at breakneck speeds.

They started to run again, taking an immediate turn to get right next to a flowing river.

They looked around, horrified to notice they were in a dead end. The river flowed as coolly as death itself. The metallic footsteps were slowing, yet getting louder, the snow crackling as every nerve in Ariel’s body told them to run.

As they stood there, they tried looking back, seeing naught but a soulless machine, looking at them with nothing but cool yet burning eyes. As he approached, they tried to step back. But if they fell into the river, they were done for.

The robot only said one thing as they got only a few feet away.

“I have you now.”

Chapter Text

Vari stepped closer, the buster on his left hand humming with energy. He stepped closer, giving a death glare, boring into the eyes of the human. He finally had them. Finally had a chance to take his revenge.

“Finally… finally. You may not know me at all, but I have been WAITING for this moment. The moment I can finally take some sort of revenge on you people for casting me down here.” He stated, venom in his voice. “Now, I wouldn’t try to argue. I’m a super fighting robot, MEANT to destroy your kind and be a weapon. So I’ll offer you a choice.”

Vari pulled out the container from his storage cavity, holding it out. “Take your Soul out, and let me give it to the King… or I can rip it out myself.”

Ariel gritted their teeth. “A-And why do you need my Soul? What can they do to help you?”

Vari smirked, aiming their buster at their forehead. “You see… this place is incased in a magical barrier. No one can escape unless its broken. The only way to break it… a power equal to seven human Souls.” He said, pacing around, training his buster on Ariel.

Ariel shook their head. “L-Like I’m gonna give you my Soul! I-I’m not letting people who were willing to attack a child out! I got attacked by 5 monsters for nothing other than I was huma-“

Vari cut them off. “AND YOU THREW US ALL OUT FOR NOTHING OTHER THAN WE WERE ROBOTS!” He screamed, getting right in their face, breathing metal dust right into their skin. “But we both know its more complicated than that.”

Vari stepped away, ready to fire. “So… kiss your everything goodbyes, human. We’ll be one step closer to freedom.”

As he charged… he got interrupted when a stray blast of energy struck his back, staggering him, but not really hurting.
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As he rode the fox, he quickly fired a pellet at Vari, stopping his attack as he was carried to the site.

“Copy Robot! Stop what you’re doing, now!” He ordered immediately.

He saw Vari look back, and his eyes widen in shock, as he quickly disarmed his buster.

“What do you think you’re doing, Vari?” Maestro asked incredulously, as the vulpine that had helped him set him down in a standing position.

Vari blinked, before his expression went back to cold, calculated fury. “What am I doing? WHAT AM I DOING? I’m getting revenge for our fallen! You of all people should know by now what befell our people!” He quickly retorted, pointing towards Ariel. “THEY threw our kind down here. THEY took EVERYTHING from us. Why can’t we take SOMETHING from them?

Maestro sighed, putting a hand on Vari’s shoulder.

“You wish to be a hero, do you not?” Maestro asked, looking at Vari’s conflicted expression. “If you truly wish to be a hero… you must do your best to forgo this anger, this rage… and work only to better everyone.”

“But YOU didn’t try to better the Stardroids. YOU didn’t try to better Wily.” Vari started, his voice barely above a whisper.

“And you certainly didn’t try to better me.” He finished, balling his fists.

Maestro sighed, nodding. “And that is my fault. I should have been better than the victory-obsessed robot I was. But now… the spark of justice that was within me… I sense it within you. All you need… is to let go.”

Vari breathed heavily… before sighing, disarming his buster completely.

“Okay… if you say s-“ He started, until he was interrupted by a kick that tore his right arm off, clean from the middle of his forearm. His eyes widened in shock and horror, as did Maestro’s.
When Vari turned, all they saw was a child, now surrounded in a dark blue aura, looking out of control.
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Kyuubi watched in shock from the sidelines as the human child had started to emit a strange blue aura, and as they kicked Vari’s arm clean off, he knew he had to do something. He took out his phone, quickly dialing the Royal Guard Hotline.

“You have dialed the Royal Guard Hotline. Please hold while w-“ The automated message started, until…

“Human, Snowdin, now.” Kyuubi belted out immediately, as the other side of the call quickly hung up.

Kyuubi stood back as he watched Vari and the child start to clash. Vari threw a punch, that got stopped by the human’s kick, before Vari’s face was met by a second kick imbued with that same dark energy. The robot stumbled back, his eye flashing red, blue and green occasionally.

Kyuubi watched as Maestro tried to jump in, firing small pellets that did nothing to stop the child, the human adolescent still wailing on Vari like a punching bag, clipping off bits of metal with every attack.

And soon, Vari was on the floor, breathing heavily as wires were exposed, oil was leaking from wounds, and part of his face was taken off, showing the crude, industrial design of his innards.
He tried to get up, as the child threw one last kick. Kyuubi couldn’t let it happen.

He jumped in front, summoning a staff and creating a diamond-shaped shield, that stopped the kick, holding it in place. He put his hands against the shield and put all his energy into keeping the shield up, feeling small cracks emanating from the center as the child pushed their kick harder.

He heard Vari tell him to stop, Maestro telling him he can do it.

Kyuubi clenched his eyes as he held strong, doing all he could to keep the shield up, if he held on for long enough, could weather the storm, he could-

Smash.

The shield broke, and he had no time to react as the kick connected squarely with his gut, sending him backwards into a tree, and everything went black.
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Vari watched in horror as Kyuubi was sent into a tree, groaning and clutching at his gut, as he went too slack for comfort. Maestro walked over tentatively, as the child froze in realization. Maestro sighed, and raised a thumbs up. Vari sighed as well. He was alive. Not even comatose. Just unconscious for now. Vari slowly turned to the child, his buster primed. This time, Maestro tried to butt in, but simply turned away, knowing he couldn’t do anything.

Vari said nothing as the humming in his cannon was more powerful than ever. Aiming the buster at their chest, the child losing all the blue energy.
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Maestro walked slowly as Vari walked away, Kyuubi hoisted across his shoulder, having tasked Maestro with carrying the canister. Maestro looked down, disgust in his face as he looked at the blue heart shaped Soul inside. He felt disgusted that he went along with it. Disgusted he did nothing. Disgusted that he failed someone.

Maestro looked at Vari, noticing only one thing. That piercing red gaze, now a darker crimson, reminding him of what he’s fought before, and that he can’t fight it now.

And now...

The river had a red spot, growing still as blood flowed through the river of Snowdin, the pristine, clean water showing just how corruptible it was.

Chapter Text

Chujin washed his hands, breathing heavily. He and Ceroba had been at home, looking for jobs in the newspaper, when a knock at the door halted their search to answer it.

But once they had answered it, the sight was nothing short of shocking. For one, a second robot, carrying a soul canister that housed a dark, blue soul. He shuddered as he saw a bloodstain on the rim of it.

Trying to ignore that, his eyes widened in horror as he saw his son, Kyuubi, unconscious and sprawled out on Vari’s shoulder. He sighed in relief once he saw his body twitch. He wasn’t fallen down.

But most shocking of all… Vari’s usually clean armor was coated in blood on his buster, his gaze incoherent yet hyper-focused at the same time. His red gaze had grown darker, more crimson.

And now, he was in the basement, washing his hands after repairing the second robot. He had been in such poor condition, blue armor fading to rust, brightened eyes cracked and dimmed, chunks of his very body torn off, leaving wires sparking. But the technology seemed… so different. He had expected it to be similar to Vari, but it was nothing like anything he’s seen. Almost… alien.

He looked back at his workbench, and sighed in relief. The robot was in far better condition. An intact memory bank, too… Chujin scanning through it, his gaze widening as he saw his son hold up a shield to protect the robot and his son from a human.

Once sat onto the chair, He looked back, seeing his son laid on a tarp with a blanket and a pillow, Vari’s gaze softer and less like the blood of the legends, and more of a velvet couch. Vari kept an ice pack to Kyuubi’s head, tucking the blanket tighter, and it warmed Chujin’s heart. For all the violence in his metaphorical soul, there was a deep care for people.

And then, his gaze fell upon the Soul container. He remembered his notes, his research he had done in spare time. Now, he had the opportunity… to hoist destiny into his own hands, to haggle with fate to get a better life for everyone… but looking back, he knew… Vari would be enough. Vari would be the greatest thing, no, person to touch Monsterkind.

But even still… what had happened after his son fell unconscious? Humans don’t bleed unless they…

…Chujin cast aside the thought as he heard the flapping of wings, and quick steps as he saw Martlet burst into the basement, frantically looking around before getting by Kyuubi’s side.

“I-I got here as soon as I could, Chujin, sir.” Martlet said, laying a wing across Kyuubi’s chest. “Do you know how bad it is?” She asked, looking towards Chujin with a furrowed brow.

Chujin sighed. “The good news is that he’s quite alright. He shows no signs of falling down, or even permanent damage. Unfortunately, it could be a few hours before he gets back up. You’re welcome to stay here as long as you wish.” He said, gesturing to a chair next to his son.
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Martlet nodded, sitting in the chair with relief. But one question bugged her greatly.

“So… what exactly happened to him?” She asked, leaning forward, her gaze flickering to Kyuubi’s face.

“Well, as you know, a human ended up in Snowdin, as I said in my letter. According to this fellow,” Chujin said, gesturing to a… strange looking robot, “Vari was hot in pursuit, with… concerning amounts of hatred, allegedly.”

Martlet nodded along, her brow furrowing. “So who is that robot?” she asked, again, gesturing to that robot.

The robot sighed, as Vari’s jaw clenched visibly. “I’ll tell you once the doctor is finished.” He stated, his voice far calmer, and more… comforting than Vari’s, but sounding battle-worn.

Chujin cleared his throat. “Doctor is an… interesting term, but I digress. This robot’s memories showed that Kyuubi had picked up this robot and carried him to where Vari and the human were locked in some sort of conflict.” He continued, his voice beginning to waver.

Martlet shifted in her seat, not knowing where this was going. “And… He got himself involved?”

Chujin nodded slowly. “The human got imbued with some… strange aura, beating and wailing on this robot and Vari… and Kyuubi…” he choked out Kyuubi’s name, the words visibly giving him trouble.

“…He jumped in front, putting a shield up against one of the human’s attacks. And strong though it was… it held up until… it shattered against the sheer power of the human’s sudden burst of energy.” Chujin finished, slumping down into a chair to let Martlet process this.

Kyuubi, the fox she knew as a bit shy, jumping in front of an attack from a human just to save people… It was awfully brave of him, but she didn’t doubt It for a second. She looked toward Vari, who had a… weird look in his eyes. His brow furrowed, his hands held out in front of his own gaze.

“…Are you okay, Vari?” Martlet asked, interlacing the feathers of her wings to cross them.

“…Why did he save us?” Vari muttered, looking at his hands. “Risking his life to save a robot he doesn’t know, and one he isn’t sure to fully trust…” he murmured, turning his hands, the bloodstains on them having dried.

Martlet blinked, and sighed. “Well, Kyu’s a really caring person. He… He always wants to do what’s right. To help anyone he can.” She clenched her eyes shut. “Sometimes… sometimes that gets him hurt.”

She untensed, and looked at Vari, a small tear at the edge of her eye as her beak curled into a soft smile. “That’s something I love about him.”

The other robot, having been silent through most of the exchange, sighed. “Well, I applaud his nobility. If he had not jumped in front, or if he hadn’t helped me get there, there surely would have been unnecessary death and pain.” He stated, kneeling next to Kyuubi.

Martlet looked towards the robot, tilting her head. “So… who are you, again?”

The robot simply nodded, getting up and bowing.

“I… am Maestro. The champion of Robotkind, and the protector of Everlasting Peace.”

Chapter Text

Long story short, burnout. I know its a copout, but I'm gonna take a bit to step back and think more so I can get a more steady stream of chapters rather than post one tiny chapter like once a week

cya guys!

Chapter Text

Vari trekked through New Home, carrying the canister holding the SOUL. Everyone had requested to get to know Maestro better while he quickly gave the SOUL to Asgore. Besides, he was personally called in by that Royal Guard captain, Undyne. He wasn’t too sure what to expect as he walked into a dimly lit hall adorned with pillars. He kept walking along, his steps echoing along the walls.

Once he reached the middle of the room, he felt a presence behind him, and someone spoke up.

“heya. you’ve been busy, huh?” The voice said, and Vari turned around to see a stout skeleton, wearing a blue hoodie, black shorts, and white dots in the middle of his sockets. His mouth was spread into a permanent smile, his hands were in his pockets as he stood there in pink slippers.

“…Cool entrance. To answer your question, yeah. And if you don’t mind, I gotta head into the Throne Room to give this here soul to the king.” Vari said, turning to leave.

“…now hold on, pal. i got a job to do.” The skeleton spoke, shrugging.

Vari turned back, sighing. “Alright, fine. What’s your job, security?” he said, showing off his buster. “Just so ya know, can’t remove this.”

The skeleton closed his eyes and shook his head. “no, no. i’m like… the judge. your journey hasn’t been too long, but there’s a couple things to judge here. Kinda like one of those morality tests you’d find on the undernet.”

Vari blinked, putting down the soul and leaning onto a pillar. “Alright, you’ve piqued my interest. You’re telling me you’re gonna like, take a look at my actions and call me good or bad?”

The skeleton shrugged again. “well, good and bad aren’t what i’d say. i just look at your actions and try to give you a chance to reflect.”

The skeleton stood still for a moment, and Vari shuddered, feeling the figure’s eyes boring into him.

“well… we’ve got a system down here. people can be designated with EXP. execution points. when you take a life, your EXP goes up. and with enough EXP… you gain LOVE. LOVE, too, is an acronym. it stands for Level Of Violence. it measures someone’s capacity to hurt. the more LOVE you have, the more detached from empathy you are.”

The figure shrugged, his eye sockets empty now. “And you’ve got quite a bit of each, don’t you?” he said, his voice far different from before.

Vari stepped back, picking the SOUL back up. He knew what he was talking about. “…And? I know damn well that was evil, don’t gotta rub it in.”

The skeleton simply held out a hand, his eye sockets having their pupils again. “but you’ve been making an effort to be better. helping out monsters, and despite what some may say about the morality of hunting down humans… others would still herald you a hero. but who am i to say you're good or bad, right? name’s sans. sans the skeleton.”

Vari blinked and stepped forward, clutching the hand, as…

Prprprprprprprprffffffft…

Vari took his hand away in exasperation as the figure revealed a whoopee cushion in his hand.

“heh, whoopee cushion in the hand trick. works every time.”

Vari shook his head, starting to head to the throne room, as the judge called after him.

“see you around, bud.”

Vari looked back, noticing the judge was no longer there. He rubbed his head, before carrying the SOUL into the throne room.
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The king sat wearily on his throne, the charred remains of his garden still dead and charred around him, the once lush and gold flowers now lifeless and black. The only golden flower that had survived was plucked by the Royal Scientist for some sort of experiment. The Royal Guard Captain stood by his side, a spear at the ready incase their new guest tried something.

That’s when she saw someone walk in. One adorned in blue armor, and a purple scarf. One clutching a canister containing a soul. One with a red gaze that held deeply rooted hatred. She stood ready, as the king addressed the figure.

“…Greetings, and thank you for coming on such short notice.” He said, standing up and stepping towards him. “As you know, you’ve been called in for your involvement in the human incident just yesterday. And while I’d love to settle this over a nice cup of tea… I assumed that you are not able to consume food.”

The robot shrugged, setting down the soul. “Yeah, I was involved. Ended up putting em down, too.” He said with a bit of venom. “Thanks for the offer, but your assumption on the food thing is right.” He added, shifting in place.

She gripped her spear a bit tighter as the king continued to speak.

“…In any case, someone as brave as you has caught the attention of our Royal Guard Captain, Undyne. She wishes to have you join forces with the Royal Guard to defend an area that has… opened up positions.” The last part was said with hesitance, and a more defeated voice.

The robot shifted, as Undyne went to pick up the SOUL. It shone a deep blue as she held it and carried it to the corner of the room. “Well, sir, I’m honored and all, but what would it involve?”

Undyne spoke up, deciding to let him know. “We have a new recruit in Snowdin as well. You’d be positioned with her as a sentry. Just log down what you can, and you’ll be paid a hefty sum. If you can also be at the ready for another human, you’d be helping Monsterkind to a huge degree.”

The robot thought for a moment… before nodding. “Alright, I think I wanna do this. Thank you, your majesty, and thanks, captain.” He said, bowing.

The king chuckled, and held out a large, white hand. “Please, call me Asgore. Now, what may I call you, creature of steel?” he asked, opening his eyes that Undyne could see twinkled with kindness.

“Heh, name’s Vari, the greatest robot in the house of Ketsukane!” Vari said, posing with his hands pointed upwards to the sides.

Undyne widened her eyes, as Asgore’s eyes shut for a moment. He stepped back, and his voice now held some hesitance to it. “Ketsukane, huh? I am familiar with them… you are excused, Vari. Have you any further questions?”

The robot clearly looked surprised, and obliged, starting to step out. “Uh… alright then. Guessin I start Monday?”

Undyne nodded quickly. “Near the end of Lower Snowdin, there should be a big house near a pier. You’ll be positioned with the guard at that sentry station.” She said, heading to Asgore’s side as Vari exited.

“Is something wrong, your majesty?” Undyne asked, surprised in his slight change in demeanor.

“No, no, nothing’s wrong. I was just… surprised.” Asgore responded, looking at the charred garden. “To think he was able to bounce back from this… perhaps these… robots are not as unreliable as I assumed.” He murmured, just audible enough so she could hear.

“…Well, your majesty, I’ll check that robot’s ability myself on his first day. And I’ll report back to you, Asgore, sir.” Undyne responded, holding her spear even tighter.

Asgore nodded, and sat back onto his throne. “Thank you, Captain Undyne. You may be dismissed. Unless you would like a cup of tea before you go?”

Undyne gave a grin. “Of course, sir. You know I love your special brew.”

Chapter Text

Maestro leaned on a tree, the snow falling gently around him. It was the day after Vari had gotten put onto that new Royal Guard job. Since then, Kyuubi woke up, finally got to know the hero of Robotkind as Vari described, and they all congratulated Vari on his new job.

Everyone… except him. He was still unsure on Vari. He had good intentions, but in the end, he wasn’t sure whether he could truly still be trusted. No matter what he said, he was still a robot built for war.

And that led him to now. He stood nearby Vari’s new station, a little hut with dog-themed decor in it, to try and get a chat with him and really get a pin on who he is.

And soon enough, Vari arrived, his face contorting in surprise upon seeing Maestro.

“…Hey, man.” Vari started, leaning on a tree next to him. “Guessing you wanted to speak?”

Maestro nodded. “Just a talk, man. Need to get some stuff cleared up.”

Vari nodded, allowing Maestro to continue. The champion sighed, and elaborated. “Well, when I first saw you were taking on the mantle of the hero… I was ecstatic. I was happy for you, to make the change from villainy to heroism. I hoped perhaps… someone else would be the hero instead of me. Because I’ll be honest… I feel like my own deeds were in vain. For all I’ve done for them… they refused to save me, no?” Maestro started, letting the snowflakes fall onto an outstretched hand.

Vari seemed lost in thought, and Maestro continued. “But then that day… I saw hate in you. That hate that seemed to consume your every move, dragging you towards violence and the role of a destructive force again. I… I can’t be sure you can keep up this role of nobility for long.” He finished.

The snowy environment around faded, almost seeming like they were two small specks in an ever expansive cold white.

Vari nodded along, as he spoke. “Well, man… that’s why I’m relying on you. If I go outta control, hurt people I don’t wanna hurt… I want you to kick my ass for me.” He said. “You did it three times before, you can do it a fourth.” He chuckled darkly as he said this. “You’re the champion of robots, man. You’ve earned some kinda retirement. But I just wanna make sure you’re still able to beat me if I turn back.” Vari said, priming his buster. “How about this. One spar. Me and you. Just to show you’ve still got it. To show you’ve got nothing to fear.” He offered, pointing the buster at Maestro.

Maestro’s eyes shone with excitement, and he primed his own buster. “I’d like nothing more, Vari.”

Maestro led Vari to a clearing in the dense Snowdin forest, one where nobody ever went. One that seemed almost endless… the perfect battleground. “Worry not for its mysterious nature, Vari. This environment is simply a tad strange.” He said, before standing on one end of the clearing, his buster ready. “So… Vari Ketsukane, hm? You choose to take the mantle of the hero… I shall be your test. So face the power… of the Champion of Everlasting Peace!”
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Vari jumped back, grinning when Maestro rushed forward and smashed his fist into the ground where Vari had been standing, the hit leaving a massive dent in the snow, sending small flakes everywhere.

“So be it, Maestro.” The scarved robot responded, aiming his buster and blasting Maestro in the face, sending the champion back as he clutched at the burnt part of his helmet.

“Huh, you’re a tad stronger since we last fought.” Maestro noted, firing 3 pellets with his own buster.

Vari jumped over the first pellet, shot the second, and ducked under the third as he sent his own pellets back. “Course I am, man! You think I’d let the power gap get THAT wide?”

Maestro swatted away the pellets with the back of his hand, shooting out a bolt of electricity as his armor turned grey and yellow. “Good to see it! But how about your copy abilities?”

Vari’s armor became a dark gold, as faint imagery of stars surrounded him, causing the lightning to redirect and break apart the ground around him, leaving him in the middle of a circle of debris. “Just as sharp as you remember, Champion.” Vari taunted, before pointing a finger, willing the stars to swivel and swirl towards his opponent.

Maestro had jumped up, and kicked one of the stars towards Vari as his armor turned a brighter pink and darker blue, before his armor turned back to the familiar blue for two pellet shots.

Vari grinned in anticipation, jumping over the star, sliding under one of the pellet shots, and letting the third chip a chunk off of his shoulder so he could get in close to Maestro.

At once, he threw a right hook, which Maestro blocked with a quick hand raise, before the champion retaliated by ducking low and throwing a sweep kick, which Vari jumped over, nailing Maestro on the head with a quick overhead slam with both hands before landing behind him.

But Vari jolted as he felt his side being immediately hit, sent back into a tree as Maestro looks back, and its clear what happened. The champion had elbowed him as quickly as he landed. Maestro laughed a bit, turning to face him fully. “Good trick you got there.” He said as he rubbed the top of his head, which was now dented.

But Vari wouldn’t let up. His armor turned a faint brown and beige color, as he pulled out a metallic sawblade. Maestro immediately put his fists in front of his face… but Vari simply swung his arm around, and cut the tree behind him.

Vari saw Maestro’s eyes widen, as the creation of Wily’s armor turned a deeper brown, as he picked up the now severed tree from its stump. “SUPER ARM!” He yelled, swinging the tree right at Maestro’s side.

Maestro jumped over the log, his armor turning a faint purple and beige as he shot a glob of glue, sticking the log to the ground, before he threw another glob, aimed at Vari’s face.

The doppelganger didn’t flinch, yanking the log back up, tearing it in two yet again to block the glob of glue. He spun around, whacking Maestro into a nearby tree as the glue glob got stuck to his chestplate instead.

Maestro immediately yanked the glue off, his armor turning a light blue as the chunk of adhesive froze solid. He then aimed his buster again, his armor turning orange and white as he shot two bombs with spikes on the end, which embedded themselves into the tip of the log Vari was holding, beeping rapidly.

Vari’s eyes widened as he quickly chucked it upwards, as the bombs detonated, sending shrapnel and sticks everywhere, the shockwave knocking and swirling leaves around the clearing. “Heh, Crash Bombers, really?” Vari asked, his armor turning green and yellow as a blade jutted out from the side of his buster, and he ran in.

Maestro’s armor turned red and orange, as his buster turned into a flaming sword. The two blades clashed with an audible SHING, the two robots staring eye to eye. A rivalry long lost. Flames of competition rekindled. Vari quickly ducked down low, sweeping Maestro’s legs and sending him up, getting ready for a direct palm strike as his armor turned back to blue…

…Until Maestro’s armor turned blue, and he blasted Vari back into a tree, the force of the blast flinging the tree out from the roots.

Vari widened his eyes, picking the tree before it could get too far, his armor turning back to brown. “Let’s see if you can beat THIS, champion!” he said, before throwing the tree like a javelin towards Maestro. To help it along, he turned his armor back to blue and blasted the log to force it further forward.

Vari laughed maniacally as the log accelerated. “Cmon, man… just give in. This time, THIS hero is the one who’s on the scene!” he taunted, jumping back as the log suddenly exploded into splinters and sticks.

As the smoke cleared, the ground around had the snow scattered, the remains of the log smoldering with blue flames as Maestro stood in the center, his eyes now glowing brightest blue as his fist stayed extended outward. “Impressive use. But until the day my eyes fade for the last time, until the day my spark for justice fades, there shall be no giving in.” He responded, waving a hand to send a wave of strange, blue runes that were made of some alien energy.

Vari braced himself, arms in front of himself as a rune connected with his arms, exploding and sending him to the ground, dealing extreme damage and knocking a chunk of his shoulder off. “Heh… didn’t know you had that.” He said, shakily getting up.

“…Its something I never quite used. But I suppose you can call this…” Maestro mused, looking at his own glowing fist, before raising it high.

“The Dawn Breaker.”
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Maestro stared down Vari, who was now chuckling, holding a hand to his eyes.

“…Good… Incredible. I… I love that. Always the one to surprise, aren’t you, man?” Vari asked, leaning against a tree. “…I got what I asked for. Its clear that if I end up screwing up… you’ll still be there to stop me.”

Vari held out a hand. “…Thanks for the fight, man. I’m counting on you.”

Maestro shook his hand, looking at Vari’s worn face. “…I hope you find success in this path, Vari.”

The two made their way out of the forest, Vari leaning on Maestro for support. But even there, Maestro had uncertain feelings. It would be a while… but as much as Vari insisted on an ‘if he screws up’…

…Perhaps it was a matter of when.

Chapter Text

Ceroba held her hand out, and lit a flame on the stove.

She placed the large wok over the open flame, and dropped a dash of oil inside, watching it simmer and sizzle on the open heat. Then, she threw in the chopped onions. They, too, sizzled and simmered, slowly darkening and caramelizing. Then, she threw in the minced garlic. It blended with the onions into an aromatic blend that made the kitchen smell like home.

Then, next to her, Kyuubi added the diced peppers. It was quite rare to find them, and a delicacy nonetheless. The colors of the peppers almost seemed to blend into an autumn forest. He then added the corn. Of course, there had to be corn. It wouldn’t quite be a meal in the Dunes without it.

As all the vegetables mixed together, Ceroba opened the pantry, and took a jar of a spice blend out, and opened it. Instantly, the scent took her to when she was little, and her mom would cook the same fried meals they made now. They had taught her a spice blend passed down for generations, which embodied all flavors of the Dunes. She smiled, and sprinkled a spoonful across the vegetable blend, before covering it with a lid, and taking out some prepared noodles from the freezer, applying a bit of flame magic to defrost and heat up the Udon.

In the other room, they could hear Chujin and Kanako helping to set the table. From the corner of her eye, she spotted Kanako meticulously placing each pair of chopsticks with the plates that Chujin was setting, and Ceroba chuckled to herself as she saw Kanako now straightening the chopsticks out.

And now, with the food ready, Ceroba looked to Kyuubi and sighed. It was time for her to ask the big question. “…Kyuubi, dear? I just wanted to ask… why did you take that hit for Vari and the other robot?” she questioned, her fingers interlaced.

She saw Kyuubi tense, his gaze tighten as his hands now held a sprig of spring onion with more tension. “…I don’t know, mom.” He answered. “It just… sprung to me. I saw them about to be hurt… and I... couldn’t let it happen.” He said, starting to chop the spring onion and lay it over the noodles as a garnish.

Ceroba furrowed her brow, putting down her ladle. “…I understand that. But you could’ve… you DID get seriously hurt, dear. You… You shouldn’t put others above yourself like that.” She responded, picking up the wok to carry to the dining table.

Kyuubi simply rubbed the back of his neck. “If there’s any pain I can take in their place… I want to be there to help. Acts of kindness make the world a better place, right?”

Ceroba felt her eyes well up a bit, and she gave a brilliant smile to her son as she wiped her eyes with her free arm. “You’re just like your father, honey…” She said, before heading into the dining room, where Chujin and Kanako were waiting.
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After dinner, Chujin knocked on the door, before stepping into his son’s room. The soft grey carpet beneath his paws stretched across the entire floor, leading to walls adorned with shelves stacked with prototypes, blueprints, sketches and ideas galore. Even a small figure of Chujin’s first AXIS model. The walls of the room were a nice, warmer grey that gave the room a silvery feel.

“Hey, Kyuubi. I just wanted to talk to you.” He said, kneeling down near his son, who was sat on the edge of his bed, writing in a notebook of some sort.

“…Something wrong, dad?” Kyuubi asked, his head tilting to the side.

“…Not really. But… I saw a look on your face at dinner. This… this is about Vari, isn’t it? Something about him has put you off?” Chujin deduced, interlacing his fingers.

Kyuubi shifted in place, sighing. “…Yeah. It has. After I put my trust in him, learning that he had killed that human was…” he trailed off, looking at his hand. “…They were just a child, weren’t they? Did he have to be so…” He finished, holding his hands together, placing the notebook on his nightstand.

“…I understand your concern, Kyuubi.” Chujin said, putting a hand on his shoulder. “But… is it really that bad? He saw the mere fact you were hurt… and wanted to avenge you. Wanted to do what he could to stop the threat.” Chujin added, putting a hand to his chin. “…It shows that he’s a suitable protection robot. Sure, that human… may have deserved a better end, but this proves that if someone truly dangerous tried to hurt us… we’ll have someone to help, even if his methods are… violent.”

Kyuubi shifted yet again, his expression now… hesitant. Like this wasn’t actually a good outcome. “Dad… even if his intentions are good, how can we be sure he won’t go out of control? What if when trying to protect us… he ends up hurting himself even more?” he asked, his gaze drifting downward.

Chujin paused, considering this. He didn’t want to think about it, but there was a point there. The footage shown did prove that Vari could show emotion, which both was heartwarming… and terrifying. If someone can show emotion, it can feel trauma and pain just as easily. Someone like Vari, who’s already been through hell and back... “…If you’d like, we can try to talk to him more. He should be on duty, but I don’t think anyone would mind if you struck up conversation while he’s patrolling. Besides…”

Chujin gave him a side-eye, grinning a bit. “You’ll be seeing him whenever you go to hang out with my apprentice, are you not?”

Kyuubi’s eyes widened, and his ears drooped down as he gazed at the floor. “Um… well…”

Chujin gave a soft chuckle, before getting up slowly, taking his hand off of Kyuubi’s bed frame. “…I’m just having a jest with you, Kyuubi. Love you, have a good night.” He said, as he was exiting.

“…Love you too, dad, good night.” He heard his son say as he shut the door.
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Kyuubi laid awake on bed, staring at a dark ceiling, the fan spinning like the thoughts in his head. Was he just being overly paranoid about Vari? Was he as heroic as others claimed he was, even through his violent tendencies? It was something the vulpine had to think about. He adjusted himself in bed, letting the blanket wrap around him as his eyes fluttered shut.