Freedom AU

For as much as he was disappointed, he also knew his son would be just as much so. Probably showing it more than he would, with how expressive the young rabbit was. Already, Springtrap was not looking forward to breaking the news to Plushtrap later that day.

An idea came to him. Something he could do to keep busy until then. Springtrap drank his coffee again, before then getting up from the kitchen counter. The rabbit went to find their papers of different towns, and the old information on his father they'd used to plan this trip in the first place. He would look over everything, already wanting to figure out a new plan for their next attempt at finding his father—knowing that giving up wasn't going to be an option.

The bear kept quiet, as he stood in the middle of the dimly lit 'Parts and Service' room. His brother and his friends kept to the room most nights since they'd arrived here, all still healing from the injuries they'd gotten on arrival. This being one of those nights, he had found them resting together in one area of the room.

Freddy was resting his eyes, sitting against the wall across from the door. Chica had her hands in her lap, while she rested against the bear's shoulder—her cupcake companion cuddled against her feathered neck. And Foxy was huddled in the corner beside Freddy, seeming to have wanted some space while he slept.

Curiously, Bonnie was missing. Gold didn't think too much of it, easily assuming him to be with their 'replacements' in the main dining area of the restaurant.

The golden bear didn't stay in 'Parts and Service' for too long, teleporting elsewhere as he left the three to their sleep.

He reappeared at Prize Corner, walking up to the oversized gift box. The lid was left open, the person he was looking for obviously not here. His curiosity made a return again. While he did know that the Marionette kept an eye on things in the boss' office, he did wonder what that exactly entailed—if it was more than simply making sure another incident like Spring Shine could happen again.

Gold took a glance around the room. The dining area had a taller ceiling than not only the Corner, but even compared to their two previous restaurants. Yet, with the extra space, the bear couldn't spot him.

Coming from the doors to the front room of the restaurant, were Bonnie and 'Toy Chica'. The rosy-cheeked chicken was leading the currently-blind-bunny along with her arm hooked with his. He had a small, genuine smile about him while he listened to whatever it was she was recounting to him.

Gold approached the two. (keep reading)

The two entered to join Toy Bonnie, finding the bright blue bunny worked on carefully bandaging one of Chica's hands. The Marionette's dark eyes widened as he got a good look over everyone.

Bonnie was sitting against the far wall, cradling one arm to his chest while he trembled where he sat. The fur around his eyes looked like someone had taken scissors to it, several cuts—maybe even a nasty slash, it was hard to tell in the room's light—were visible dangerously close to the bunny's squint-shut-eyes.

Chica was sitting against the far wall, still looking dazed while Toy Bonnie wrapped her hand up in a bandage. Her other hand looked to be in a painful state, her wrist looking swollen. She had gotten a similar treatment as Bonnie, not quite as severe, nor around her eyes. Instead, along her cheeks and around her beak. She was in a dazed state, paying the unfamiliar bunny helping her no mind. Carl, looking unharmed, was keeping himself huddled in her lap for now.

Freddy was still unconscious, laying on the floor not far from their feet. The Marionette couldn't see much by way of physical injuries, though at this hour of the night, and with the way his friends looked so far, seeing the bear laying there unresponsive brought him no measure of relief.

Foxy was the only other one in the room, curled up in a darker corner of the room. He had one leg stretched out, as though keeping it from touching anything more than the floor beneath him. More cuts and slashes covered his leg, and thanks to the fox's pelt and the dim light he hid within, the Marionette couldn't be sure if there wasn't dried blood from his wounds.

"... As I said," Toy Freddy quietly spoke up. "A... miserable state..." The Marionette shook his head. "Right... eh," he looked towards Toy Bonnie. "Bonbell, was it?" The bunny looked over his shoulder towards the two. He nodded. The Marionette approached him—mindful of where he stepped—and knelt down beside Toy Bonnie. "Where's that first aid kit?"

'Think it's got enough bandages in it?'

'If it doesn't, I know where they store more of them.'

'That's a good thing.'

The old memory was replaying in his mind's eye as he walked. He hadn't thought about that moment in a long time, opting instead to recall the second, 'more proper' introduction Fredrick had given him after the fact. That way, he was able to appreciate the memory of first meeting the 'Toys' without cringing at the harm done by those unchecked technicians.

While the memory hadn't exactly popped up in nightmare the night before, an element of the dreamscape's scenario reminded him of that moment. (keep reading)

-> book cover created by me! -> dividers by @cafekitsune & @diviniyae

𝕷ively melodies grew louder as the three arrived to the Gala. The string mistros had begun playing one of her favorite variations, her smile brightening when she recognized it. Tonight was going to be a memorable night.

Lady Ballora walked just behind her mother, her sister walking at her side. All three walked with an air of elegance as they were invited to join the rest of the guests from the Anthro Kingdom who were gathered for the King and Queen's Gala.

As for the reason for the event, which had extended invitations to both nobles and commoners? King Pyped wanted to celebrate the anniversary for the bond of love shared between he and Sana, his queen. Both monarchs, seeing all the years they had spent together, extended a celebratory ball to the Kingdom—their beloved subjects.

She found it a romantic, endearing reason for a celebration.

The dance floor had many couples and duos of Anthros, waltzing in one style or another to the music being played. (A glance towards the musicians, and Lady Ballora could see Fred Bear—the King's minstrel—leading a humble band of musicians. She smiled, watching him and two, gold furred rabbits playing in joyous harmony).

The young noble turned her attention to her mother—her sister doing the same. She and Lady Ella could notice the small look of ennui in her emerald eyes, the Duchess watching the crowd. She then realized her daughters' sympathetic looks directed towards her.

"My dears," the Duchess began, taking a hold of each daughter's hands. She kissed each of their knuckles gently. "Please, go enjoy yourselves out there!" She said. "We haven't come to this ball just for you both to worry for your poor mother." Lady Ballora was about to reply, when her mother placed her hand in her sister's. Their mother gave their now-joined-hands a light squeeze before letting them go. "Off with you, go dance!"

"Very well, mother." Ballora and Ella gave their mother a kiss on her cheeks, before Ella whisked her older sister away into the non-dancing crowd. The Duchess smiled as she watched them hurry off, shaking her head a little with amusement.

"Ella-!" Lady Ballora called out, her sister's stride stopping long enough for the ginger to give those dancing a careful look. "What are you doing?" Her sister began her fast walking again—glancing over her shoulder to answer, "Looking for a good spot to dance~!"

"Ella...!"

Her sister hadn't a chance to heed a heads up from her, before the red head was running into someone. "OOF-!" The other took a startled half step away from Lady Ella, mumbling under their breath. "Daioni-!"

"Sorry-! Apologies, I wasn't..." Her sister's apology trailed off, both of them freezing a little when they saw who they'd run into. The King turned to face them, something of both curiosity and amusement found on his painted features. The Queen, at his side, was giving them a similar smile.

Lady Ballora and Lady Ella promptly curtsied before the royals. "I am very sorry!" Ella quickly restated. A small chuckle from the King had the two slowly standing straight again. "It's quite alright, geneth. No harm was done."

As the King reassured her frazzled sister, Ballora caught a glance towards the princes—both of whom were watching the interaction. The elder, donned in his event appropriate armor, was watching her younger sister with a narrow-eyed look—contrasting the kind expressions from his parents.

The younger prince, Ballora accidentally locked eyes with. Both starred into each other's eyes for several seconds. She could feel a warmth in her cheeks before the prince finally looked away. Lady Ballora, too, turned away as she brushed a hand to her cheeks—missing the way the golden furred bear at his other side teasingly nudged his arm.

"-and my older sister," she blinked, turning her attention to the ongoing pleasantries she found herself a part of, still. The King and Queen's attentions were directed to herself by her sister. "Lady Ballora." Ballora smiled, giving the couple a polite courtesy of greeting. "A pleasure, your majesties."

"A pleasure it is," the Queen began, "seeing you both in attendance of the celebration, tonight." She said to them with a kind smile—while hooking an arm with her taller husband. "Of course. And a happy anniversary to you two." Ballora said in turn. Both sisters watched as the Queen lovingly squeezed the King's arm, as he put a hand on her's.

In a similar manner, Lady Ella hooked arms with her older sister. "I suppose we should wish you a nice evening, so we might actually join the next dance together." The Queen looked surprised. Lady Ballora noticed the unarmored prince quietly say something to the bear.

"Neither of you have a suitor, here?"

"Mine couldn't attend tonight." Lady Ella answered. "And, no one has met my dear sister's liking in a long time." Lady Ballora caught what her sister said, looking back at her to give a shake of her head. "My darling sister tends to exaggerate things," Ballora saw pleasantly amused looks across both the King and Queen's faces. "Excuse her..."

Another voice joined the exchange, the golden bear stepping forward. "Pardon for interruptin'," the King gave the bear a forgiving nod, while the sight of their younger son had caught the Queen's attention. "His Highness wishes to say somethin'."

"Gold-!"

"Yes, fy mab?" Ballora saw the prince now with a flustered expression, partially mixed with embarrassment. So much so, even the older prince wore a subtly amused smile in reaction.

The Prince's gaze found her's again. The hesitation grew more awkwardly noticeable, though the warmth returned to her cheeks again.

Just as the King was about to prompt his son, again, to speak, Prince Puppet stood himself even straighter—his confidence returning. Lady Ella's eyes slowly widened as she watched him approach her sister. She wordlessly let go of her arm by the time he stopped before her.

"Your Highness." Lady Ballora offered the prince a curtsy, to which he returned with a boy. "My lady." He said in turn.

"If it isn't improper of me, I would like to ask you for a dance." The musicians had come to the current song's end. The King and Queen smiled—the Queen, more so, beaming. Lady Ella watched her older sister with pride as the prince offered her a hand.

Lady Ballora smiled. "I do not find it improper," she took his hand as the next song began, "I'd be delighted to share a dance with you, your Highness." Prince Puppet's smile brightened.

Now offering his arm to her, the Prince and the Lady made for the dance floor together—Lady Ella, Gold, and most of the royal family happily watching them as they joined the dance.

The prince had taken a moment away from the dancing crowd. The Lady—a Duchess's daughter, as he learned—he'd spent several dances with, was now giving a turn to her sister. Both Ladies wore bright smiles while they danced with one another.

As he watched them, he noticed Lady Ballora was dancing in almost a ballet waltz. She danced beautifully. The violet curls from her braided bun, which framed her soft face, bounced delicately around her bright eyes. Her lavender ball gown let her move with ease while she danced to the music.

He knew that added blush returned to his cheeks, in spite of the colors that were painted across his masked features. He felt the subtle warmth... and heard a teasing hum from the golden bear who joined him on the ballroom balcony with a slice of pie from the concessions.

"Haven't seen you smitten with a lady like this in... eh, well, too long." The prince turned his face away from the bear to hide away any further blush across his face—unintentionally adding to Sir Gold's amusement.

Just as he took a bite of pie, the bear asked, "Is she kind?" Continuing to watch her dance—she practically radiated—the prince replied. "Very kind. And graceful... and gentle, a sparkle in her eyes. Delightful. She's..." Te prince caught the knowing, teasing grin Sir Gold was giving him as he listened.

The prince shook his head. The bear chuckled a little.

Watching Lady Ballora again, Prince Puppet carried on. "I just... think she can do better." He confessed. To that, he expected a rebuttal from the steward—not that his self confidence currently wanted to hear it. Thankfully, the bear's reply was not a rebutal of the prince's comment.

"I think you should kiss 'er."

The prince's eyes widened. His cheeks took on a deeper shade of red. He quickly looked to Sir Gold—who calmly took another bite of pie. His mouth hung slightly agape. The prince shook his head.

"Sir Gold, that's just-! It's-! I-Improper of me!"

"More 'improper' than dancin' with her in front of the Kingdom like you were doin', just then?" The bear noted, brow raised. The prince didn't answer. He turned to watch her again.

Lady Ballora spotted him. She smiled at the prince, who in turn waved at her—he, too, smiling again.

Sir Gold quietly hummed pleasantly to himself at the sight of them, while he finished off his pie slice.

Slowly, both leaned away from the tender kiss they'd found themselves to be sharing.

She looked up into his eyes, his affection the only thing she found in them.

He was admiring the twinkle in her pale, pink eyes—keeping a hand gently held to her chin.

From the blossoming tree whose shade covered them, a small, pink flower floated gracefully from the branches above and landed on her violet hair.

Her eyes followed his other hand, which reached up to take the blossom from atop her head. He tucked the small flower behind her ear, along with some loose strands of her hair. She looked up a him again, smile beaming a small bit more—as was his own smile.

She reached up for another kiss.

"You Highness?" The prince turned his head to the direction the voice came from. A castle servant—one of the new faces—turned a path in the garden, location the couple. Once the fox spotted them, she walked down the path before stopping to curtsy.

"Yes, miss?"

"Your Highness, the King wishes to speak with you. Though, he says it isn't urgent." The prince nodded. "Thank you." The servant offered another curtsy. leaving afterwards.

Lady Ballora gave the Marionette's hands a gentle squeeze to gain his attention again. The couple locked eyes, nearly falling back into letting the minutes pass them by. Her thumb gently rubbing the back of his hand kept him in the present, however.

"I should leave you to your affairs." The Marionette's other hand slowly returned to its place beneath her chin. "Not before I give you a small parting gift." Lady Ballora had a peculiar look about her, knowing full well what this 'parting gift' was.

Puppet gently held her face closer to his own. He kissed her forehead gently, then letting her lean away.

Lady Ballora had no qualms accepting this parting gift. Just as she never did all the other times he'd given her the caring gesture.

The Lady and the Prince both stood from the stone bench they had been on. He offered her his arm. "Allow me to see you off, my love." Lady Ballora hummed, her nose scrunching briefly with her slight smirk. "I thank you, cherie."

He'd found himself standing by the window of the study, staring down over the very kingdom he would soon be ruler over.

Behind him, his father droned on over everything which still had to be taken care of in regards to his upcoming coronation. He'd let his mind wander, no longer paying attention.

His newly appointed advisor, though, was listening carefully to all the details the king was discussing.

As he watched out the window, he couldn't help but imagine the dark cloud that hung over the kingdom, still, since his beloved mother's passing, and his brother fleeing into the night.

And yet, though he still felt the somber darkness, the grief their subjects carried, there was a light still in his life. He thought of her always, now so even more than ever.

A king needs a queen.

And Puppet, he wanted Ballora at his side—regardless if as his queen or not. She was the only soul whom he wanted to spend this lifetime with.

"Fy ngwas!" The prince blinked, turning around quickly to the expectant looks of his father, and Sir Gold. "Have you been listening at all?" The expression on the prince's face was one Sir Gold easily found familiar, these days. "I... well, yes, just..."

Withholding a small smirk, the bear turned to address the King. "If I may, sire," both father and son looked at him. "I believe a certain Lady was occupyin' his mind again."

"Gold-!"

"I see..." The king hummed. He put the quill, he held, back into the ink well. Then, he stood from his seat. His son watched him walk around the desk, stopping in front of it. He loosely crossed his arms and gave his son his full attention.

"Tell me, then," the king began, giving his son a nod, "are you still questioning your intentions toward Lady Ballora? Because if that's so, I must tell you that this courtship can no lnoger be drawn out once you are crowned as king, fy ngwas." He explained in a level tone.

Sir Gold watched the prince's reaction with intrigue. Something sure was appearing across his masked features. The bear raised a brow.

Prince Puppet shook his head 'no'. "I've made up my mind, father." He stated. "And... I think it may have been made up for a while, now, if I'm honest." His father festured for him to continue. "I want to ask for her hand in marriage."

A subtle smile found the king's face. Sir Gold chuckled happily, saying to the prince, "I think we were due for some good news. Real wonderful to hear you finally admittin' this." The prince waved him off. "That's if she says yes..."

"She will." The king assured him. "She holds you, and your relationship to each other in a dear regard. I'm certain she'll accept your proposal." His son smiled. "Thank you, father."

"Don't thank me for stating something so simply clear." The king said, shaking his head a little as he returned to his seat—picking the quill back up again.

"Now, about your coronation ceremony." Prince Puppet sat across from his father, and Sir Gold took the seat next to him. "You have my full attention."

Perfect.

She felt elated, just like that sunset's even when he'd invited her to a quiet picnic supper in her favorite part of the castle's garden. The fireflies had begun to twinkle around them both from the flowers and hanging tree branches, when he'd asked the question she'd been eagerly waiting to hear.

"Lady Ballora, would you allow me the privilege of your hand in marriage?"

"Yes...! I will gladly marry you!"

A large number of the Kingdom was gathered for the royal wedding—held at the castle as per tradition.

Beautiful flowers adorned the pillars, arches and pews which matched her own bouquet. Gemstones sewn into the hem of her white wedding gown glistened, as did the ones braided through her hair. The lace train of her dress still laid in the aisle, even as she stood at the altar with her to-be-husband, and the Kingdom's newly crowned king.

Lady Ballora's wedding day was perfect. And she knew she looked as radiant as she felt. The way in which her beloved was smiling at her, made as much quite obvious.

And the Kingdom was happy to be celebrating a joyous occasion, again, after the dark days that had returned the last two years.

"If any soul here objects to this bond made, here, today, speak now—or forever hold your peace." There was a pause. The couple glanced toward the silent attendees.

Lady Ballora caught a look at her mother and sister. Lady Ella was beaming, and though their mother, too, smiled, she was quite clearly moved to tears already.

King Puppet exchanged looks with his father—stood between them at the altar—who wore a look of pure, contentedness on his face, smiling. His son's own smile turned into a grin when he next turned to give Sir Gold a glance—the bear standing off to the side watching with pride in his pale, blue eyes. Sir Gold subtly nodded to him.

Not a soul spoke up to break the silence. The couple met each other's gaze again, and their expressions brightened.

The dowager king addressed the congregation once more. "Then, it is with pride that I pronounce you husband and wife!" Bride and groom stepped closer to each other. She stepped up on her toes, balancing gracefully, and he leaned his head downwards. They shared a kiss, and a moment after, cheers from all in attendance filled the quiet—all of joy for the newlywed bondmates.

As he approached the castle's lounge that afternoon, he refrained from making his presence known. Instead, he quietly idled by the door, which had been left ajar. He peered into the room, where on a plush canape, sat his darling Queen. A servant was keeping her company, the fox taking up a chair while she took care of some sewing.

His wife had a book in hand, whatever its contents, looking to be a calming read. She kept a hand resting atop her rounded stomach while the other held up the book within her line of sight. Her feet were propped up on the opposite end of the canape. He knew they were bothering her more after each day.

A few rays of sunlight shone through the lounge's windows. From the angle his wife sat, her back was to the light. For a small moment, she looked as radiant as ever. He could feel his very heart flutter in his chest.

The King finally pushed open the door and entered the lounge. The Queen closed her book on her thumb, and the servant paused her sewing. "Hello, love." Came his wife's greeting. He smiled warmly towards her, though first addressed the servant.

"You may carry about your duties, now. I'll be with the Queen for the rest of the day." The pink and white fox gave a single nod, standing from her chair and pocketing her sewing. "Very good, sire."

"Thank you, Vixen, dear." The Queen thanked—Vixen giving her a passing smile as she left the two alone.

The Marionette's attention returned to his wife again. Ballora closed her book properly, and placed it aside. She gave her husband a small, tired smile as he knelt next to the canape.

Puppet took one of Ballora's hands in his, nothing short of admiration in his eyes as he looked at her. "You're glowing." Her smile faltered. "I don't feel that I am..." She admitted. Her husband's expression shifted to one of sympathy, while she rubbed at her temples—no doubt suffering a headache.

"I know you don't," The Marionette said, "which is why I see that someone is at your side whenever I can't be." His wife's smile returned a little. "You're handling this with elegance, but I know it's been taxing on you."

"Do I really complain that much...?"

"Not at all," he assured her, even pressing a kiss to her knuckles, "I just see it. You're my wife. I know you as well as I know myself... that is, I hope I do." Ballora quietly laughed a little. "That's one thing that I truly love about you, 'Mare." She said to him, a glimmer of affection in her pink eyes.

Then, she let out a sigh. "What's troubling you now, my dear?" The Marionette asked. His wife vaguely gestured first to him, then to herself. "I can't kiss you... You're too low. I can't bend down to reach you..." With no hesitation, the Marionette straightened himself up to reach Ballora—giving her a soft kiss. She was smiling, after.

Puppet settled back to kneeling again. He pressed a hand to her stomach. "How were the little ones, today?" Ballora watched the glow of magic appear beneath his palm. "They were... oddly calm today." She watched his expression as she almost hesitated to ask, "Are they...?"

The Marionette was about to answer, with reassurance, the unspoken worry from his wife. A flutter of movements against his hand beat him to it. He chuckled quietly. "They're all doing well, my love." Ballora smiled in relief. She put a hand on top of his, and her other she pressed to the side of her stomach—feeling the little kicks against her own palm.

"Goodness... they had me worried." She said with a slight shake of her head. "Well, both Bonbell and myself can tell you, the babies are fine and well." The Marionette reminded her.

He stood from the floor, going to sit on the edge of the canopy. He brought a hand to her cheek, gently caressing her face. "Only a few months more, my dear. And then, we'll be holding our precious children in our arms."

"I know, love."

The Marionette leaned forward to press a kiss to her forehead. "I love you, Ballora." Her smile was now calm, warmed. "I love you too, Puppet."

She'd felt drained that whole day. Her movements, gradually, became sluggish with each passing hour since opening her eyes that morning. In her mind, she must simply be coming down with something, again.

(Passing illnesses always seemed to be something she was prone to contracting, really.)

After all, should she only feel much worse come evening, then she would just arrange to have Bonbell sent for that next morning. For the time being, she would endure.

The Queen hadn't allowed the brightness of the golden sun in the sky to bother her when she'd spent some time with her four daughters in the garden... even if it left her feeling unusually warm after they'd returned inside the castle.

As the five walked the castle halls, the pleasant chatter among her daughters slowly became almost a white noise. The slow ache that had been settling in her head was beginning to worsen. It took her attention away from her daughters.

"Wills he, Mama?" The Queen hadn't realized one of the princesses, Mina, had even addressed her. Princess Mina gave the skirt of her mother's dress a tug to gain her attention.

The Queen blinked a few times, looking down at her daughter. "Yes, my sweet?" Princess Mina repeated her question. "Will Papa like this one, too?" She showed off the lilac flowers from her small bouquet she'd picked—as all for of the princesses had the idea to pick their father flowers from the garden. Queen Ballora managed a smile. "Yes, I'm certain he will love the lilac, too." Princess Mina beamed.

Before long, the Queen and her daughters were leaving. By now, all her focus was placed on keeping her pace steady, and to keep walking in a straight, poised manner. The edges of her vision were beginning to swim, and her head was now pounding.

The princesses all ran up ahead to their father, who Sir Gold was still trailing behind. "Papa! Papa!" They all began, Princess Mina and Princess Lucette already showing off the flowers they held. "Look what we gotted!" Princess Mina said. "Flowers, I see?" The King assumed, reaching down to scoop two of his daughters into his arms. "We's picked them for you's, Papa!"

"And some for you, too, Sir Gold!" Princess Rosette and Princess Tina had gone over to the bear. The King watched with a smile as they handed Sir Gold a couple of daisy flowers. "Why now, thank you, your Highnesses." The Princesses giggled among themselves, before going to their father's side.

"How was... was the meeting?" Queen Ballora managed to ask the question, as the nature of what her husband had to tend to that day still remained at the back of her mind—even in her miserable state. "It went well," the King began, setting his daughters back down. "Meodona's ambassador has left, now." The Queen quietly hummed, acknowledging the information.

"There'll be more to take care of, with the family of New Homestead," the King continued, "but we'll all meet for that at a later date." Queen Ballora lowly mumbled something in a winded response, taking an unsteady step back.

The Marionette paused, as though finally seeing how much more unwell his wife looked—compared to that morning.

He opened his mouth to ask if she was well.

She suddenly lost her balance, practically falling limp onto the floor. He was rushing to her side in an instant. "Ballora?!"

Sir Gold was quick to coral the princesses away from their mother. The four were rightfully frightened, a couple of them crying out for their mother. The golden bear grabbed the attention of the butler, giving the other bear precise instructions to aid the situation.

The Marionette held his wife close to his chest, arms supporting her upper body. She was barely conscious. He could feel the heat emanating from her form, and he found himself needing to hold her with a more secure arm as her frame trembled and shivered.

"My love, do you hear me?" The Marionette began, tone lowered, though speaking close enough to her ear. "Say something? I'm right here...! I h-have you...!" He held her up closer, pressing the side of his face to her feverish forehead. "Please, love, s-say you h-hear me...!" She seemed to try mumbling something to him in return, but her strength continued to dwindle—hindering anything coherent.

A hand was placed on the King's shoulder. He quickly looked up to see the butler, as well as a few other servants, now standing over them both. "Your Majesty, we must get the Queen to your chambers." The butler said. The King glanced back down at his wife's paling visage. "I'll send for my brother at the same time." The bear added.

The King took in a steadying breath. "Thank you, Fredrick." He replied. Fredrick and the other servants watched as the King adjusted his hold of the Queen. He stood up slowly, keeping her limp form in his arms. Then, he began down the hallway—the castle servants following close behind them en route to the King and Queen's bed chambers.

(find the fic here!)

He took a long glanced over the bear's back and shoulders. It looked like he'd cleaned him up well. "Fredbear?" The bear's reaction was heavily delayed. The Marionette leaned his head down slightly to catch the bear's eye. Fredbear slowly looked at him. "If you can head back to the stage, I'll go get Freddy for you."

"... 'k." The bear hummed, slowly sliding off the bathroom counter. The Marionette watched as the bear slowly wandered out of the bathroom.

He sighed, briefly returning his attention to the bathroom sink—where the bear's vest was still soaking. The Marionette decided to leave the vest to soak for now, in the time it took him to talk with Freddy. First, he had some dried blood he needed to wash off his own hands before he could.

Shutting off the kitchen tap, Puppet went to grab the kitchen towel from the oven handle to dry his hands with. The simple action was interrupted, his grasp on the towel faltering. As the towel fell to the floor, Puppet's dark eyes narrowed briefly and his subtly sucked in a pained breath—a hand subconsciously hovering near his chest.

The brief pain was gone as soon as he'd felt it. Confused, Puppet blinked. His hand lowered.

As he reached down to pick the kitchen towel back up, Puppet heard a duffel bag being gently dropped to the floor. He looked up. Ballora was giving him a confused, almost worried look. "Mare...?" She slowly began, watching as he finally dried his hands off. "Yes...?"

"Are you alright?" Ballora asked. "I'm fine, Bal'." Puppet answered, giving her a small, smile. She still seemed unsure.

Setting the towel aside, Puppet walked over to her. He reached down to pickup her ballet bag from the floor, holding it for her to slip back onto her shoulder. "Promise." Ballora's confused look disappeared, letting Puppet put her bag back onto her shoulder. "Alright..."

Puppet gave Ballora a kiss, saying to her, "Have a good class, Bal'." Ballora smiled a little. "Thanks. Love you." She answered, continuing towards the front door. "Love you, too." Puppet stayed by the kitchen's threshold, watching as his wife left for her ballet class. Once she left, his own smile slowly faded.

He held up a hand, expression shifting to confusion. A golden hue began to glow from Puppet's palm, while he turned towards the towel now on the counter. A single, golden string made contact with the towel, dragging it off the counter and towards Puppet. It nearly made it to his hand, but failed just before reaching. The string had briefly detached from the towel mid air just long enough for it to fall to the ground.

Puppet paused. He looked carefully at his hand. Something felt... off.(keep reading)

"Nonsense!" Papyrus countered. He knelt down to Luca's level again. "Here, climb onto my shoulders. Then, I want you to hug against my head so I won't bump yours as I climb up." Luca looked confused. "But... won't I fall off your shoulders?" Papyrus shook his head 'no'. "I'll use my blue magic to make sure you remain safe as we climb up, then down, together!" Luca mouthed 'ohh!', promptly taking up the offer and climbing onto Papyrus' shoulders.

Foxy watched on carefully, as Papyrus' magic created a blue glow that covered Luca from head to toe. He was completely, impossibly immobile while Papyrus climbed up into the tree ship. The blue magic faded, and Luca could move again—carefully getting off Papyrus' shoulders.

"That felt weird...!" Foxy heard Luca comment. "Yes, blue magic tends to make you feel heavy." He then heard Jessie ask, "does it be painful?" Papyrus shook his head 'no'. "Perfectly harmless, when used correctly—just as I did." He explained. Foxy began to smile again, remaining idly by while the kids excitedly showed off their new tree-ship to an equally-enthusiastic-Papyrus.

His, admittedly horribly, scribbled note he'd made for himself in the middle of the night had helped jog his memory for the details of the nightmare he'd had been woken by. Keeping again to the quiet of their bedroom for a while, Puppet wrote down what all he remembered from the previous night's dream.

He wrote about the rain, the alleyway, anything else he remembered of his surroundings. The looming figure behind him, who he felt to be actively not acknowledging, and who's speech came off as low, echoing chuckles. The heavy blanket around his shoulders, which he had hiked up without the use of his arms—seemingly recalling to have been hugging his knees to his chest simultaneously.

Puppet also made a special note of how, something about this dream kept bringing his thoughts back to Nat. Aside from his older brother's current situation keeping him on his mind constantly, this nightmare felt like it almost related back to him, in a way.

Thinking about it a moment longer, Puppet had an idea. He flipped back through the pages of his notebook, He reread previous entries about other, strange dreams and nightmares he'd been having. And then, it donned on him,

All of them had that same element. That element that felt to almost connect his brother to whatever these strange, unrecognizable nightmares were. (keep reading)

bonus fun fact about her original character sheet: after posting it to wattpad, i immediately lost the original drawing. it despawned within the walls of my grandparents house, (they still live in the same house, it never turned up), and i never held it again. she lives in my puter now TvT

Random Facts: - 5'2" - Youngest of 3, her older brothers being Fredbear Fazbear and Freddy Fazbear - She's knowledged in plants, just like her Dad*, but her specialty is with flowers! - Still has a lil diamond shaped nose :3 - Her teleportation magic is impaired due to her SOUL's condition - Between her two mobility aids, she favors her crutches whenever possible. She prefers keeping up with others using them. She'll use her wheelchair when traveling, or on more tiring days. - She's overall quite sweet and wholesome. Especially since her and her parents reunited with her brothers *I'm currently easing in a general retcon for Arthur, giving him a green thumb that he's had since childhood^^ Her SOUL: - Has a green hue for KINDNESS - Underdeveloped at birth - Weakened from the physical trauma of losing her leg as a cub - Notably fragile - Smaller than a typical SOUL of her current age...

  An odd pang of déja vu rang in the back of Gold's mind, causing a couple second's delay from chuckling along with his grandfather.

  Once he did, Gold replied, "Ironic, as Flo's the most optimistic one out of us three."

  "Who's to say she didn't only pick it up from your dear mother?" Fred Bear teased. Gold shook his head in amusement. "Well... alright, maybe you've got a point." Gold agreed with a shrug. Fred Bear returned his grandson's side hug, wrapping an arm around him.

  "And the two of you got that from your grandmother." Fred Bear noted, a fond look on his face at Maisie's memory. "Don't think I ever recall a true moment's disappointed whenever Grandma was concerned." Gold said with a warm smile. Fred Bear hummed. "I'm happy you don't. Means you remember how much she loved you 'n your siblin's." His grandson nodded. "I know it."

  An odd pang of déja vu.

  Walking home from having spent an otherwise pleasant afternoon with his grandfather, Gold couldn't help himself as that odd sense came up again once parting way from Fred Bear. It felt like a memory trying to resurface. Like there was something he'd not tought of in a long time. It caused a slower stride as he walked, narrow eyes fixated at the park walkway he was following as he went.

  The memory was something from his past, but not his child or teenhood. Maybe... from the Family Diner? His brow pinched as he continued to think about it. The sound of a young boy's voice seemed to slowly bring up another detail from the memory. A boy, he had a golden, plush bear. There was something peculiar about the plush... peculiar about the boy.

  The boy was upset... yes, though Gold could barely recall his face, he remembered the tears often staining his cheeks.

  But, the boy didn't sound upset. Or, not at that moment, anyways. Gold blinked.

  Looking at his surroundings again, the bear noticed another park bench he had begun walking past. It was currently occupied by three of his fellow Anthros, Fredrick, Jenny and Luca. Luca's words quietly paused, the three of them offering Gold polite waves 'hello'. Gold briefly smiled, nodding 'hello' in return before carrying on.

  The three looked to be having an almost serious conversation. He didn't want to intrude with needless small talk, after all.

(keep reading)

Baby yawned. In trying not to fall asleep, yet, she asked her sister, "How were your parties?" Ballora set the brush aside. "Eventful. One party was even ballerina themed, and I wound up showing the birthday girl and her friends some ballet tricks." Baby smiled tiredly. Now simply running her hands through Baby's untangled hair, Ballora asked in turn, "How about your parties, Ella-?"

She let go of her sister's hair as she sat up straight. Baby didn't immediately look back at her sister, frozen for a few seconds. Ballora's eyes narrowed a little. "... Ella?"

"Don't call me that." Baby told her flatly. "I don't... Why not? What's the matter?" Baby crossed her arms, leaning forward a little more, in on herself. "Just... don't. That isn't my name anymore." Ballora gave her sister an upset look. "To the humans, maybe," she reached a hand towards her sister's shoulder, "but it's just me, Ella-"

Baby shrugged her sister's hand away. Ballora watched as she stood up from the floor. She briefly glanced to her sister, a conflicted look in her eyes. "... Don't call me that anymore." She simply repeated, walking out of the room.

Ballora stayed where she sat, looking equal parts confused and worried. She leaned down to pick the throw pillow up, then idly messed with the threads of tassel on the edges of it while she sat in the quiet dressing room.

One night, everyone was passing the time together. They were gathered in Baby's party room, as it was the bigger of the party rooms. Funtime Foxy had gotten out a box of party game supplies, challenging Funtime Freddy and Baby to a game of darts. (The set itself being made of magnetic darts, on a magnetic dartboard—for the safety of their guests, of course). The invitation to play had been extended to Ballora, though she'd declined, instead opting to watch them play with BonBon.

The ballerina had watched the first couple rounds of their game. Now, though, her mind was elsewhere. (keep reading)

"Was it... bad memories?" A nod 'yes'. "From your past?" Helpy looked unsure how to answer. He shook his head no, but also shrugged. Sophie hummed. "Something recent?" A more confident nod 'yes'. "Was the nightmare... about Nat?"

Helpy nodded again. Sophie's expression softened. "Aw... hey, I'm sorry about that whole thing, Helpy." The small bear lightly waved her off. "No, really... I feel awful about it." Helpy gave her lap a small pat as a gesture of forgiveness.

"If it makes you feel better," She continued. "I'm not letting you get into a situation like that again, if I can help it. Promise." Sophie held out her pinky finger towards Helpy. He subtly smiled a brief second, opting to just grab Sophie's pinky—giving it a shake.

"Would you want to have half of my bed for the rest of the night?" Sophie then offered. Helpy looked over Sophie's bed, not looking detered by the offer. "Fair warning, though, Aslan's an awkward snuggler." Helpy smirked a little, already climbing off Sophie's lap and making it onto the far side of her bed.

Sophie watched as he made himself comfortable under her blankets, his small head sinking partly into the pillow. The moment he stopped wiggling under the sheets, did her cat take that as a sign to make himself cozy on top of the small bear. Aslan trod over the comforter, and sprawled sideways across Helpy's torso—loudly purring already.

Sophie shook her head a little. "Can you still breath?" Helpy nodded, yawning as he did. "Good." Making herself comfortable in her bed again, Sophie pulled the blanket up to her shoulder and placed an arm beneath her pillow. "Goodnight, buddy."

He watched on warily. That bear had sold him out. And now, his brother was... coming by to leave him another tray of food. There had to be a reason behind all of this. This couldn't be all it was. His brother had something else planned. But he couldn't figure out what. Just that it would be something to try forcing him to go with his brother, like he'd tried begging him to do last winter.

He had no idea why they couldn't just get the picture, that whatever their plan was, would be pointless. At the very least, he could simply try making his brother say what this was he was trying to do. Maybe then he could better turn it against him, and finally be left alone.

Once his brother stood still in that same spot in the basement again, he let his tentacles quietly slither along the shadows of the walls, behind boxes and shelves. He directed them just right, making sure they were just visible enough by the light from the basement window. He then saw his brother subtly glance about, and shoulders tense. That's how he knew they'd been spotted. (keep reading)

Ballora allowed her worry to show in her expression for him to see once he finally looked back at her. '... I promise, I'll sit down and tell you once it, I guess, starts to make sense...?"

Their stride slowed to a pause, mainly at Ballora's prompting. She looked up at her husband for a minute. His gaze slowly lowered. She let out a quiet sigh. "Okay. So long as you do, I'll give you time." Puppet smiled, slightly. "Thank you, love." Ballora returned the smile, and they began walking again.

Another look towards the shops they were passing, and a sign caught Puppet's eye. "I didn't know Gerson had an antique shop?" Ballora looked towards the shop. It was Puppet's turn to stop their pace, now. "Did you want to go look in?" She asked. Puppet gave a small nod. "I think so, yeah." Ballora smirked a little.

The couple walked up to the door, Puppet pulling it open for Ballora—walking in after her. Like many other businesses in Newer Home, there was a small bell above the door that chimed to announce their arrival to the shop. Hearing the bell, an elderly, tortoise Monster exited the backroom of his store. He gave his potential customers a hearty grin and 'nod' hello as he wandered up to the desk.

"Well, howdy t'ya's, kind folks," Gerson greeted them, "Welcome in to Ol' Gerson's Ol' Finds! Got plenty of treasures, you'll see!" Puppet and Ballora gave the old Monster each a smile. "Thank you, Gerson. It's a lovely shop you've got." Ballora complimented, several of the items on the displays already piquing her intrigue.

Approaching the counter, Puppet asked, "Has this place been open, long? Or, am I just oblivious?" Gerson gave a chuckle. "More 'er less. I've been runin' this, here, place a bit, er, irregularly in recent years." He began, leaning an arm on the surface of the counter while he spoke. "I'm finally able t'a keep it open f'er more days, since scorin' some ol' antique goods off in Ebott City."

Puppet hummed. "Interesting. What sort of stuff did you get for your shop?" Gerson paused a moment, muttering to himself as he scratched at his chin. "Oh, eh, y'er usual things you'd find in them ol' fangled, city antique stores. Sort o' things like old books, fancy lookin' clocks, little music boxes, you know. That sort of thing."

Ballora had walked back to the counter in time to hear Gerson list off his latest goods. "Then, sounds like I know where to go if my music box ever breaks." Gerson nodded, chuckling. "You, ma'am, you's got the right idea. Buyin' one of the boxes I've got, then lettin' your fella," he nodded back to Puppet, "use its parts on your music box."