Blue Screen

by MadamRiddles

Summary:

After Kris took back the thorn ring and their Soul allowed Noelle to believe it was all a dream the two’s relationship grew close once again. Along with this the prophecy just stopped after the Titan was defeated. For 11 years Kris and Noelle lived their lives unaware when everything would start back up again, or when the Soul would act on its own.

Chapter 1: Before the Second Beginning

Noelle couldn’t stop shaking. Bright blue obscured her vision. It was cold, it was freezing. Within the bright blue she could see them. The wire beasts, the mice, the cats. Each one trapped in a frozen prison. Numbness began to take her left hand as she tried with all her might to slip off the ring, its thorns ripping her skin apart with each tug. The blue was becoming so blinding it was turning white, making it easier to see the six sided crystal that stood in front of her. She tried to focus her gaze to see what was inside it but her eyes moved upwards as something much bigger looked down at her from behind the crystal.

Yellow and Pink staring down at her. It spoke. “[Angel] DON’T YOU JUST FEEL [Heaven]LY!?” The creature lurched forward. Its silhouette was imposing. Giant wings shielding Noelle from the light behind it. “YOU WOULDN’T JUST THROW IT [In the garbage] AND [Ruin] MY [Chaos, Chaos] WOULD YOU!?” Noelle could make out its face. A pale long nosed puppet. “YOU WOULDN’T [$!$!] ME OVER RIGHT AT THE END WOULD YOU!? ALL BECAUSE OF [They/Them]!?”

Who was this thing talking about? That thought only sat in her mind for a second before she could remember. She heard Kris’s words.

“Proceed”

——

Noelle jumped out of her trance as her partner shook her slightly. Kris stood between her and her computer. It appeared she did something to cause it to blue screen.

Once Noelle was able to focus on reality again Kris turned towards the computer, shutting it down and moving closer to inspect Noelle’s hands. Dust and torn fur covered her wedding ring, she was accidentally tearing her skin fiddling with it.

Noelle pulled her hand from Kris and looked at it herself. “Oh jeez! I’m sorry I’m so sorry!” She began hyperventilating as she spoke. “I didn’t mean to do this again, I thought I was doing better, I didn’t think it would be a problem to wear it again, I’m so sorry you had to see me like this again, Kris” she was cut off by Kris placing a finger to her mouth.

Kris slowly pulled the ring from her finger. The skin underneath lacked fur and was irritated. It was obvious she was at this for a while.

Noelle looked at her hand and then up to Kris’s face. The look on their face, they were upset but trying hard to not show it. Noelle’s vision began growing blurry as tears began to obscure it. “I’m sorry.”

Kris embraced her, the warm feeling of their body against hers was the only thing that could comfort her in a moment like this. It’s been this way for 11 years now. After that horrible dream and that terrifying prank Kris had been there to protect her. Through their last couple school years she’d begin to notice the new Kris. They would check up on her daily. Have it be at school, her house, on the phone, or online. Even when she and Susie were dating she couldn’t help but notice Kris’s determined focus on keeping her and their best friend happy.

But she knew it was Kris. They spoke like Kris, they walked like Kris, they pranked like Kris. Nothing like the thing from her nightmare. She felt awful breaking up with Susie just to start seeing her best friend but Noelle had to be close to Kris. They would protect her in a way no one else could. It was fate that they would marry not that long after finishing school. It had to be.

Noelle felt as Kris helped stand her up, walking her over to their bed and tucking her under her heavy blankets. They slowly pulled away before walking over to the computer. They were going to figure out what caused the computer to freeze up like that.

Noelle knew she had to tell them what she was doing even if she didn’t want to. “I was testing out the modding capabilities of the game my team was working on.” Noelle was leading a dev team working on a Cat Petterz Fan Remake. Her Mother had no issue in her daughter being unemployed if she’d keep herself busy with projects like this. “I guess it wasn’t ready for more than a couple being active at a time.”

Kris just nodded before Noelle watched them open up her discord and begin messaging someone. Her heart dropped a bit, it was about to happen again.

Kris walked over to the bed, sitting on the edge refusing to make eye contact. “You’re taking a week away from the game.”

Noelle tried to protest. “But they can’t continue the project without me. I need to do my part!”

“Catti can handle any questions for a week. Your team is fine.” Kris responded.

“But, but…” Noelle tried to stop herself from crying even more but the tears were breaking through. “This is all I have right now you can’t just… take this from me.” She burst into tears, grabbing Kris’s shirt and pushing her face into their side. “Please, please let me do this. I have been doing so good it was just a small hiccup it won’t happen again!”

She continued crying and begging into Kris’s side as they sat there unresponsive. She clenched onto her partner as tightly as she could but she felt them start to pull away, standing up and tugging themself out of her grip. Leaving her to curl up on the bed alone. She gripped at her knees trying to make herself as small as possible.

——

Kris walked out of their bedroom, unable to figure out how to fix this issue right now. They came home for their lunch break. They still had work after this hour was up. Kris was working under the Mayor, doing whatever small jobs Carole asked of them. Carole had no issue spoiling her Daughter and in law for such simple work. There was no way Kris was going to be able to go out and help Mr. Cattenheimer fix his car while Noelle was sitting at home crying.

Kris took a deep breath and felt at their chest. Their heart rate was quick, that’s good it meant it was reacting with their own emotions. They could sit with Noelle without worry, hopefully.

They pulled out their phone and quickly called their boss. Carole was always quick when it came to answering Kris. They kept their hand on their chest as they waited for the mayor to answer.

Carole answered. “Kris? It’s your lunch break. You shouldn’t be focusing on your work until 1. Please enjoy yourself.”

Kris took a second to put a bit of energy behind their voice. Carole couldn’t really understand their usual mumbling over the phone. “I can’t finish my tasks for the day. Noelle needs support.” Kris could hear Carole sigh over the phone.

“You understand that I need those tasks done right Kris?” She sounded disappointed. A tone most couldn’t pick up on as she always sounded disappointed to those who didn’t know her well.

“I’ll get someone to help Mr. Cattenheimer I promise. The work will get done.” Kris grasped at their chest. The tasks were getting too much for them to handle but they had to handle them.

Carole was silent for a second before responding. A kinder tone. “Good, I’m counting on you to figure this out yourself, Dreemurr. Enjoy your weekend and please make sure Noelle is happy. You may come around if you think it would calm her down to see her mother.” She hung up.

Noelle sat in bed, barely able to see her dust covered hands. Kris was going to change their mind, they wouldn’t hurt her like this. Her focus changed once she heard Kris in the hallway. They were talking to her mother. Maybe if they were going to stay home she could convince them to let her continue the project. She couldn’t let this one fall through. Not like all the others.

When Kris returned Noelle was laidback in bed. She wasn’t crying anymore but she looked upset. She hid most of her face under her blanket.

Kris walked over to the computer. Shutting it down before they crawled into the bed next to Noelle, half covering their face as well. “I’m staying home.”

Noelle was still upset but had calmed down enough to speak clearly. “I don’t want to stop working on the project Kris. I’m so bored at home right now. Working with the team, it’s been making me feel like I can work a job again. Like I’m not just sitting at home waiting for you to come back.” It’s been too long since she felt useful. After those panic attacks at her last job she had been stuck at home for years. “Please let me get back to work.”

You stared at Noelle for a good few seconds. “Okay you could do whatever you want.”

Noelle jumped a bit. It was so blunt so matter of fact so… familiar. That fear was broken when Kris scooped her up into their arms.

Kris nibbled at her neck. “But first I’m hungry.”

Noelle let out a loud squeak. “KRIS!!!” That was more like it. That was Kris.

Chapter 2: Reconnecting Session

Kris stood in their garage, back against their workbench. In one hand they held their phone, the other one of Noelle’s old antlers. This one was shed about 2 years ago. Kris carved the year into each one they were able to save. They tossed the antler into the air, catching it as it fell back towards the ground. They continued this motion as they stared at their phone. It’s been a while. They took a deep breath and held it in for a good few seconds waiting until they were light headed before pressing down on Susie’s contact.

Kris hated asking Susie for help. Every time she’d hang out with them it would always end up in one of two ways. The question ‘So how’s Noelle?’ With an obvious look of longing or ‘You got to see how Castle Town is doing! Ralsei would love to see you again.’ But Kris didn’t want to see Susie hurt, and they weren’t going back to the place they had so little control.

Once the call was answered Kris was met with Susie’s barely understandable voice. “Eating sandwiches, who’s this?”

Kris responded with a long howl the sound of Susie almost choking on her food made it worth it.

Once she cleared her throat Susie responded. “Kris! Hey it’s been a while what’s up!?” She sounded excited.

“Got to help Mr. Cattenheimer fix up his car engine but the doe needs me. Could you help me out?” They leaned a bit more against their workbench. That howl taking a lot out of them.

“Oh… I guess so. I mean I don’t think Toriel would mind much if I left early to help someone out. A kid’s probably not throwing up any time soon.” She sounded disappointed.

Kris clenched their teeth. They couldn’t just leave her like that, not Susie. “I’ll make it up to you. Tomorrow we meet up at the diner for lunch, I’ll pay.”

“Hell yeah! Just like old times! I’m holding you to that!” She hung up before Kris could respond.

A smile curling on Kris’s face as they turn from their phone to the other side of the garage. “Wake up, loser!” They threw the antler in their hand across the room hitting the birdcage You sat inside. The cage fell onto its side as You tumbled around inside. “Did you think I wouldn’t notice?” Kris stumbled their way over. Sweat drenching their clothes and button up shirt violently pulled open. You see their hair much longer than last time You were in control. It was pulled back into a loose ponytail but still covered their face for the most part. They got low, squatting down to stare you down. “Why are you back?”

You had no way to respond, not in this state and they knew it. It didn’t matter that it had been 11 years Kris was ready for this moment. Even something as small as trying to get them to lighten up a bit on Noelle, they weren’t just going to let that slide.

——

Noelle grew bored of scrolling on her phone. Kris was just going to take a second to call someone but she was beginning to get restless. They probably just got tired of cuddling and didn’t want to be rude. She got herself out of bed and eyed her computer. She was given permission to get back to work but something felt wrong about doing so. Something about how Kris sounded when giving her permission.

“No, that's crazy. I’m just scared about having another episode. Don't act so silly Noelle.” Even when attempting to reassure herself she couldn’t bring herself to move any closer to the computer. Whatever happened during the visions were always really hard to remember but something did stick. The Puppet. For some reason that stuck around in her head.

Her thoughts were cut short when she felt her phone go off in her pocket. A message ‘your package has arrived’ finally, some good news. She galloped towards the front door, throwing it open and catching a familiar face in the middle of attempting to leave her box at the doorstep.

Noelle couldn’t place their name at the moment but the yellow armless monster went to school with her for pretty much her entire school life. They had a sled full of packages attached to their belt and they seemed to struggle a bit in holding Noelle’s package in their teeth.

“Here let me take that.” Noelle grabbed the package from them. “Thank you! I’ve been waiting for this to show up for weeks!”

The other monster seemed to take a second to let their jaw rest before striking up some small talk. “Well I hope the wait was worth it dude! Haven’t seen you and Kris around recently, what’s up with that?”

Noelle responded with a smile. “Oh well Kris and I travel a lot nowadays! This year specifically, I sort of wanted to stay as far from home as possible.” Her grip on her package grew tighter.

“Oh well I can’t blame you. Man, this town does feel pretty small at times and that’s just not for some people. Glad you two are happy.” The conversation was halted when the sound of a howl came from the garage. “Woah new pet?”

Noelle’s face went red. “Oh! Yeah! Don’t worry about that! You go get back to your umm… do your job!” She slammed the door closed and pushed herself against it. “Dang it Kris…”

After a few minutes calming down she opened the package right on the floor. Inside an authentic Dragon Blazers White Mage Cloak. Throwing the cloak on it fit wonderfully, reaching down just above her hooves. even the custom horn holes were perfect for her antlers. She rushed to the garage to show Kris.

Noelle threw the garage door open. “Kris look, it came! It looks so pretty- oh” she threw her hands over her mouth. Kris looked suppressed. On the floor in the corner of the garage. Leaned back on their arms, chest unbuttoned, hair messy, deep red eyes focused entirely on her. She couldn’t help but blush. “O-oh! Cheezus umm.” She just stared. Knowing Kris wasn’t going to say anything. She hid herself inside of her robe looking away from her partner. “Your… Mage is going to wait for you in the room.” She rushed towards their room, face as red as her nose.

Kris just sat there, awestruck at what just happened. You, well hidden directly behind them. Kris turned towards You. “If you excuse me. I’m going to go. You can wait here until I’m done.” With a smile they stumbled to their feet. With a single swift kick to your cage being the last goodbye of the night. You were going to be stuck here for a while.

Chapter 3: FRIENDS

Almost two years since Kris and Susie fought the Titan. A more dangerous foe now tested the two heroes, a heat wave. A stream of water formed from the hose outside Toriel’s house. Water balloons littered the lawn, half of which had already popped.

Susie stood in the driveway, a horde of balloons behind her. She shook her head trying to get her wet hair out of her face. “Come on! Is that all you got? I’m going to pass out from heat exposure if you don’t get to pelting me.”

Kris laid in the grass, hair stuck in their eyes from all the peltings to the face they had just survived. Stumbling up onto all fours they glared at Susie. Noticing the balloon horde directly behind her there was only one option. Kris rushed Susie, slamming into her stomach causing her to fall back directly onto the balloons. The two just laid there on the pavement laughing through the pain of slamming down on the hard ground.

Susie grabbed Kris, pulling them into a headlock. “You’re a little punk, you know that?”

Kris nodded, a big smile on their face. Being able to spend every day with Susie was a dream come true. Not needing to worry about the prophecy anymore was a large weight off their shoulders. Sure a lot was lost and the original plan fell through but being free of someone else’s control was worth it. Kris finally tapped out of the headlock once they heard their phone going off.

Kris rushed over next to the front door to the plastic bag they placed their phone in. It looked like Noelle tried calling them. She left a message. “Kris please come over. Bring ‘you know what’ with you.” Kris’s grip on their phone got tighter as they got visually upset. This couldn’t end well, Susie would see where they were going if they just called off the hang out for Noelle. Noelle only broke things off with Susie 2 weeks ago. It was still a sore topic to talk about.

Kris typed back to her. “I’m wet.”

Her response came back quickly. “Just stand in the sun for five minutes then come over. Please.”

There was no getting out of this, Kris visibly jumped when Susie put her hand on their shoulder. Dropping their phone on the ground only for Susie to grab it for them.

Her eyes focused on the text exchange before she looked at the frozen Kris. A long deep breath escaped her. “Oh. I see.” She handed Kris back their phone, patting them on the back. “Looks like Noelle needs your help, bud.” She walked over to her things, grabbing her shoes quickly before heading for the road. “Go deal with that, and when you’re done you know where to find me.” She was upset, there was no way around it but she refused to allow that to ruin Kris and Noelle’s friendship. When Kris visited her in Castle Town they’d need to bring her something to show their appreciation. But first, Noelle.

Kris tried drying themself off a bit before heading inside and grabbing what they were asked to. Green guitar strings wrapped around the item. Their heart raced as they stumbled out the door and made their way through the trees towards the Holiday residence.

Kris returned to texting. “Am I breaking in?”

“No, the front door is open.” Noelle responded. “Mom isn’t home.”

Kris didn’t like this. Shoving the item deep into their pocket. They were going to do everything in their power to not use it. As they pushed open the front door they were met with the freezing cold of the air conditioned house. Kris’s damp clothes made entering inside a bit difficult. They were already shivering as they made their way to Noelle’s room.

Kris attempted to take a deep breath but the chatter of their teeth made it too difficult. They just reached for the doorknob and pushed the door open. Noelle sat on her bed in the dark. The only light in her room was the bright blue from her computer screen. Her eyes met Kris as they stood in the doorway.

Noelle got up and took a deep breath. She spoke as if she felt they were both in danger. “Kris, I think I understand now. You’ve been protecting me. Doing everything in your power to make sure I don’t get hurt, and I’m grateful for that.” Her gaze turned to her computer for a few moments. She looked terrified. “But it wasn’t a dream was it? It wasn’t just some nightmare, and you didn’t just come back into my life all of a sudden. I was getting stronger, I did cast those spells, I did destroy that demon that attacked you, didn’t I Kris?”

Kris couldn’t move. They just stood in the doorway as they watched Noelle step closer to them.

She continued, taking small steps as she spoke. “And if I saved you that means you don’t have to protect me. I have to protect you.” She raised her left hand towards Kris. “I’m ready this time. I can be strong for you. I can protect you if you let me have that power once more. Kris please place the ThornRing back on me.”

Kris was visibly disturbed. She was insane. There was no way after all this time she actually began believing it was real again. There is no way she actually would want to become that again. Kris grabbed her hand. Quickly tugging it down. “What are you talking about?”

Noelle was fast to protest. “You know what I mean! The thorn! The one you pulled out of my finger that night.” She was determined. More bold than Kris had ever seen the meek reindeer. “I want to give back, Kris. You’ve given me so much since you’ve come back into my life. I want to make sure if anything like that creature ever showed its face again I could protect you.”

Kris held her hand tightly “Elly, no monster is going to crawl through Hometown to kill me.”

Noelle hadn’t heard the nickname Elly in a long time. Especially not from Kris. It seemed to pull her to reality a bit. “Kris… I just want to show you how much your support has meant to me. I want this, I’m making the choice and I’m saying I want you to do this.”

Kris continued to push her hand out of their face every time she raised it. “Not stabbing you with a thorn, Holiday.” Kris’s body was shaking. A mix of fear and the fact they were freezing. They were beginning to lose their composure. “Why can’t you just act normally. It was a dream, I was a jerk to you afterwards, and now we’re friends again! Let it go!”

Noelle was visibly shrinking in on herself as Kris began yelling at her. “But… but I can’t accept that. You made me stronger. You make me stronger. You’re there when I need you. You helped me feel safe… Helped Berdly after he finally woke up again… Helped Susie and I… get together. Something I’m going to be forever grateful for.”

“Then why did you dump her?” Kris was scared that they knew the answer.

Noelle broke eye contact just staring at her hands. “It was amazing and I think I learned a lot from the experience but.” She grabbed Kris’s hand. “I couldn't stop thinking about you.”

Kris’s heart was beating so fast they feared passing out. It was too cold, it was too much, and they couldn’t do what they wanted to at the moment. They just couldn’t.

“I’d like to.” She spoke as if she could read their mind. “You may proceed with whatever-“

Kris pulled her down to their level before pressing their lips against hers. They refused to let go of her sweater as they pushed their face against hers.

Noelle couldn’t help but chuckle at Kris's attempt at kissing. She slowly pulled away from them a smile across her face. “I think you need some practice, Krismas.” She led Kris into her room. “I can help with that.” She sat them down on the bed next to her. “You’re shaking.”

Kris mumbled their words out. “Still wet.”

——

It’s been 11 years since Kris fought the Titan. They woke up next to their wife. Noelle was wrapped in her new mage cloak. What was meant to be part of a cosplay for an upcoming con might end up being a regular to her at home wear. She always looked good in white, at least to Kris. Always more bold, more confident when she felt like a powerful ice mage. They liked that. After placing a quick kiss on her forehead they dragged themself out of bed. Stumbling to their feet. It was difficult to keep on their feet after so many hours without their soul. Unfortunately it was about time to let them back in.

You watch as the garage door swung open and Kris all but lunged at your cage. “I hope you’re ready to behave. We’re going to see Susie today.” Kris threw the cage door open before grasping you in their grip. “Whatever you coming back means doesn’t matter. Just keep away from Noelle.” They shoved you back into their chest. The agonizing pain returned Kris to a state of enough strength to walk without falling over. “Remember we will be just peachy if you actually listen.” You stand, heading to the kitchen to get something to eat.

It was a fairly nice house, a little cold but that’s to be expected from living with a reindeer monster. The piano from the Holiday household seemed to have been brought over to this house and placed in the living room at some point. It was well taken care of. Not a spec of dust across the whole thing. Your hands shook as you tried reaching out to it. Kris didn’t want you touching it. Once You made it to the kitchen You headed for the fridge. It was packed full of different foods and a lot of water bottles. Frustrated by the thought of You thinking through every choice Kris pointed out an apple.

As You grabbed the apple and sat at the table You allowed Kris to enjoy their snack. Kris took their time, spinning the apple around while slowly chewing. They seemed calm, a far cry from their anger the other day. The sound of hooves galloping across the floor was heard from both of you. ‘She seemed in a good mood’ You thought.

Noelle was full of energy as she burst into the kitchen, her cloak flowing as she spun around. “Wooo! Last night was great! We haven’t had a good binge of an old anime like that in like a year!”

Being stuck in one place being forced to watch a show was usually not their forte but Noelle’s colourful commentary was entertaining. It was also entertaining to bother her while she was invested. Sounds like it would have been real fun if You were invited.

Kris attempted to speak but it appeared that they didn’t have that ability at the moment. You spoke. “I enjoyed it too.”

Noelle’s stimming stopped after You spoke. “Really? You spent half the time messing with me and the other half walking off to use the bathroom or get us snacks.”

Kris was already getting annoyed. Immediately you’re trying to talk to her. You ignore their anger. “Just enjoy being around you.”

Noelle just stared at Kris, a look of concern spread across her face. “Okay?” She shuffled over to a drawer with a number lock on it. Slowly removing something from inside it and hiding the item in her cloak. “You got any plans this weekend?”

Kris tried to focus on thoughts about Susie to keep you on track. You spoke. “Yeah, I’m going to see Susie for lunch.”

Noelle nodded, keeping her eyes on Kris. “Oh that’s nice. I’m just going to check in on the Cat Petterz project. See if anyone on the team has fixed the issues with mods.” She spoke a bit softer. “Is that alright?”

You gave her a nod. “Sounds good.” Kris began moving their legs. Standing up causing Noelle to jump a bit. Walking past her heading to the front door. “I’ll just head out now.” Kris clenched their jaw growing tired of their soul's words. “Love you!” They slammed the door closed.

Noelle dropped the knife in her hand to the floor. She couldn’t remember the last time Kris explained themself that much, especially saying ‘Love you’ like that. Something was definitely wrong but she didn’t know what could be causing this. Did she upset them that much with that last episode? She picked back up the knife and placed it back into the drawer before locking it. Kris didn’t like knives free around the house. Taking a water bottle with her, she returned to their room.

After spending half an hour updating her files she finally was able to start up her game again. She averted her eyes just in case the screen would go blue again. But once she heard the game's soundtrack begin playing she knew it was okay. It seemed like her team’s composer added in a new version of the background track they were working on. It was a bit choppy and creepy but oh well she'll talk to them about that later. Checking in on her cats it appears the mods ended up deleting her current test subjects leaving behind a new egg ready to hatch.

This was probably going to be some horrible modded amalgamation so Noelle prepared to screenshot the creature as soon as it hatched to show the team. Once the egg popped open the cat came out mostly normal. A white head with a black tuft on its head. A magenta right eye and a yellow left eye as well as an awkward open mouth smile. Its upper body was black with little white paws and a white backside. Noelle burst into laughter over how ugly the cat was. As she took her screenshot the cat appeared to freak out, falling onto its back before snapping at the sky around them.

Noelle went ahead to attempt to name the cat but it appeared to already possess one. ‘Spamton C. Spamton’. Weird but Noelle was used to weird pets. She posted the weird pet to her group discord, laughing with her team for a bit before returning to the game. Her smile dropped when she saw a speech bubble appear over the cat.

“HEY [Hochi Mama] YOU GONNA KEEP [Leaving Me On Read]?” The cat was staring directly at the screen.

Noelle couldn’t help burst into laughter once again. One of the mods her team put together that she added must have been a spooky exe mod to try and freak her out, it might have worked if it didn’t talk so goofy. It looked like one of the mods added a text box to converse with her pets. She played along, it might be good to lighten her mood with something silly like this.

Noelle typed. “Hello there Mr. Spamton, I’m so sorry I didn’t mean to ignore you.”

The cat tilted its head as it processed her response. “AH THERE WE GO LITTLE [Angel] NOW WE ARE TALKING” the cat pranced through the empty playroom. “NO [Investments] NO [Merchandise] HOW’S A [Salesman] SUPPOSED TO [$!$!] THE COMPETITION WITH NO [Stonks]”

Noelle went through her inventory, tossing a small mouse toy into the enclosure allowing the cat to have some enrichment. There was something comforting about this creepy creature. She was probably going to keep it around. At least for a little bit.

——

Kris had no plans for the morning but getting out of the house was the most important thing at the moment. They didn’t want You anywhere near Noelle, you’d already done enough damage. They sat in QC’s Diner, there was no harm in coming in an hour early and they knew QC wasn’t going to have any issues with Kris taking up a booth unless things started getting crowded.

You mumbled out the words. “When can we go to Castle Town?”

Kris responded just as quietly. “I don’t go there anymore.”

“Since when?” You asked.

“Haven’t been there since I was twenty.” Kris responded.

“How old are you now?” You asked.

“Twenty six.” Kris responded.

You chuckled a bit and Kris slammed their head into the table in response. They didn’t want to talk any more. They just took a rest. Sleeping was usually the best way to shut you up.

——

Kris was awoken by a hand knocking on the top of their head. A deep familiar voice followed, it was Susie. “Hey earth to Kris, is Kris there?.”

Kris raised their head up, shaking themself awake. “Ah there you are slow poke.” Kris seemed to have gained control over their vocal cords at least for now.

Susie bared her teeth as she sat across from them. “I came 10 minutes early dumbass!” She was dressed in a white button up and a pair of black jeans that have somehow not ripped yet.

Kris couldn’t help but chuckle a bit. “What are you wearing?”

Susie crossed her arms, a smug smile on her face. “At church, I've been helping my man Alvin out recently. Susie out here doing the opening readings every Saturday.” She seemed pretty proud of herself.

Kris was proud too. “Never took you as religious enough to do something like that.”

“Well I mean you know. You and Noelle weren’t going anymore so why not help out. Not like I’m doing anything on Saturdays.” She lifted a hand getting one of the waitresses' attention. “But we can talk as we eat, what do you want?”

Chapter 4: Second Beginning

Kris watched as Susie shoveled fries into her mouth. Slowly they pushed their half finished meal towards her as she reached for more to eat. She was the janitor down at the school. She always said it was to stay close to Ralsei and the others, to always be around and make sure no one else falls into the dark world. She also made a name for herself as a pretty good person to call up if you’re ever in need of help, she was the heart of hometown anyone could see that.

Once Susie took a break from eating she continued where her and Kris’s conversation left off. “Yeah so Alvin’s new novel series? Yeah guess who’s been helping him with that project?” She pointed at herself with her thumb, face full of pride.

Kris chuckled a bit, laying their head on their arms. “The one about the human in the cave?”

Susie lit up a bit as she responded. “Yeah! It’s like an alternate history story about humans and monsters living apart after a war. So this little human falls into a cave system where all the monsters live and befriends them!”

This wasn’t anything Kris would be interested in but Susie’s excitement was contagious. Maybe they would check it out. “I’m glad you’re doing well.” Said Kris.

Susie took a fry shoving it in Kris’s face which they took happily. “So, you know what I’m up to. What about you? How’s life with the wife been?” She leaned back ready to hear what Kris had to say.

Kris shrugged as they munched on the fry. It was good for a while until the other day. Maybe Susie would enjoy some of the nicer stories but Kris was wary. They didn’t know how Susie felt about Noelle and them even after all these years. It always felt like there was a tense feeling in the air when she was brought up.

Kris’s thoughts were cut short when Susie spoke up again. “And don’t say anything gross like ‘we’re trying for a baby’ or any stuff like that.”

Kris chuckled a bit. “Damn, here I was getting ready to tell you all the juicy details. Like how she-“ Susie was quick to cram a fist full of fries into Kris's mouth leaving them unfit to mess with her further. They got to actually thinking on what to bring up. Once they were able to clear their throat they finally gave Susie what she actually asked for. “We took a couple months to travel around the world this year. Perks of marrying into money I guess. She liked Japan. Bought a lot of things out there. I liked New Zealand, a lot of nice sights.”

Susie gave them a little nod, she looked happy for them. “Yeah well unlike you I’ve been right here! Home has been pretty good, you could come over if you’d like.” She gave Kris a knowing look.

Kris knew where she lived. Being given the school's keys made it pretty easy to live in Castle Town. She was trying to get them to go back again. “I don’t go there for a reason Susie, and right now is not a good time.” They thought about You. What would happen if they went back with a soul outside of their control again.

Susie tried to convince them like she had many times before. “Hey come on. It’s been okay for years. I know you want to keep Noelle safe but… maybe both of you could come? It’s safe, it’s wonderful, and Ralsei would love to see you and actually meet Noelle. Hell, I'd love to talk to her again.”

Kris froze for a second before asking. “You’d like to talk to her?”

“Dude, she was my friend! Plus she’s my best friend's wife, I would like to see you both more!” Susie didn’t have a shred of malice in her voice. She meant it. She wasn’t upset at them for taking her away; she truly just missed them both even after all the pushing away Kris had done.

Kris spoke, barely audible. “I’m still your best friend?”

Susie reached across the table placing a hand on Kris’s shoulder. “Of course, being an adult is hard. I get why you’ve been hard to get a hold of. But I miss you. Ralsei really misses you.”

Kris couldn’t make eye contact. 6 years of pushing away. 6 years of fear of what would happen if they kept trying to balance caring for Noelle and entering that realm where the soul could have so much power if it awoke again. But it did awake and so far Kris has been able to hold partial control. Maybe they could work through this if You actually want to play nice. “Okay, I’ll do it.”

——

The Dark Prince sat in the middle of his room. His attempts at meditation for the day kept being interrupted by the slapstick antics taking place outside his door. He wasn’t going to acknowledge it, Queen and Lancer could continue their paint ball game, if anything this should be a good challenge to keep himself focused on clearing his mind. He focused his thoughts on a moment of calmness. He and Susie as they lay in a freshly made field. The days spent expanding the land of Castle Town while Susie found items in the light world that could be used to create a wonderful lively plain their subjects could explore and live away from the cramped castle.

It was just Him and Her staring up at the sparkling dark sky. The pride they both felt as they finally figured out how to make their dark world larger. They could do this as many times as they wanted. They could make sure no one ever grew tired and Susie would never get bored hanging out with him. He remembered her wrapping her arm around him. The quietness of that moment. He let himself become absorbed in that moment that was until a sharp jolt shocked his system. Susie was back.

Ralsei used his scarf to push himself up onto his feet, working as an extra appendage. It also grabbed his trashcan and placed it over his head. As he walked out into the hallway his trashcan shield protected him from the paint ball war going on outside his room. Throwing his shield off as he rushed down the stairs, with a small hop he floated his way down the last couple steps. As he walked out the front of his castle he manoeuvred around Shuttah’s couples photo set. It looked like Head Hathy and Wearwearwire were enjoying themselves, meanwhile Lanino and Elnina were fixing up each other’s hair as they stood in line. Ralsei did his best to ignore Clover’s attempts to get his attention as she loomed at the back of the line.

He rushed through the town doing his best to stay out of the way of the Watercoolers the Zappers were relocating to a more serene location. He finally made his way to the entrance to the dark world. He spoke in a happy tone. “Susie! You’re back early! Did you just want to spend your weekend here with us?” His smile dropped when he noticed who was with her. “Oh… Kris…”

Kris stood completely still as they scanned everything around them. They had their armour just like all those years ago, but it seemed that their cape had been replaced with a larger black one. They forgot that black handkerchief they’ve been carrying around was the shadow mantle. Susie’s armour hadn’t changed much, a few more spikes around the shoulders and the Jeviltail worn like a belt. It was also really noticeable how muscular she had gotten recently. Wow.

Once they heard Ralsei’s voice their eyes were quick to focus on him. He was much taller than last time they saw him. Not exactly Susie or Noelle tall but he wasn’t close to Kris in height anymore. He also looked a lot thinner than they remembered. Less fluffy with an exception of his chin which now sported a skinny goat's beard ending in pink. His scarf looked to have a few tassels at the end now almost appearing like the fingers of a hand, something made a lot more obvious when he used his scarf to wave at them. His arms tightly behind his back.

Kris could feel You urging them to hug Ralsei but now wasn’t the time.

Susie was the first to speak. “Well look who I pulled out of the light! Ralsei we got so much to show them!”

Ralsei gave a small nod. His voice stuttered a bit. “H-Hello Kris. It’s been a while.”

Kris nodded back.

The gang just stood there avoiding eye contact for a good minute until Susie attempted to push through the awkwardness. “So! Ralsei I assume you were in the middle of something so how about I show Kris around?”

Ralsei just stared at Susie for a second before giving her a smile. “Of course, you two have fun. I'll meet you both at the cafe.”

Kris watched as Ralsei and Susie hugged. Ralsei giving Kris a small bow before heading off on his own quite quickly. It felt bad but they understood, if they were in his position they probably wouldn’t be that sure how to react ether.

Kris allowed Susie to show them around. Everything was so much brighter than they remembered. Everyone was so happy. Time just moved on here without them. King eventually was rehabilitated and now ran the Top Bakery giving out free Lancer cookies with every purchase, his baked goods were surprisingly good. Jevil had apparently refused to ‘wake up’ from his nap staying on Susie’s person at all times. Rouxls never let up on his antagonistic ways causing a constant stream of mayhem for Susie and Ralsei. Lancer had grown over the years. He pretty much looked like a jolly version of King. His joyous demeanour never faded, giving everyone within Castle Town some entertainment. Sweet, Cap’n, and K_K had filled the town with music. Sometimes calm and tranquil but usually anything but that. Queen got her city back. Well, a town she called a city. Using the newly open space created by Ralsei and Susie she was quick to demolish the lively scenery. Even with very few of her Cyber World subjects remaining she seemed happy with the new friends picked up from TV World. Speaking of which, the weather duo and the Mikes ended up becoming pretty useful in creating a more dynamic dark world. Warmth and cold, snow and sun, and anything the weather couldn’t handle the Mikes would break their backs creating sets and spotlights strewn across the entirety of the more empty parts of the land. Jackenstein was the last major player the FUN Gang brought into the dark world. Ralsei put him to work in the castle which he was overjoyed to take part in. The dungeon had ended up being quite a calming place for him especially with the lights off.

It was so much, by the end of this tour Kris felt like they were about to pass out. They needed a break but unfortunately someone else realized this, You. You tugged at Susie’s jacket and spoke. “Maybe we should go see Ralsei now.”

Susie didn’t seem to pick up on any change in demeanour. She just smiled, ready to have a good time with her two favourite people. Susie and Kris made their way to the cafe. Swatch and Tasque Manager both worked just as hard as Kris remembered to keep this place at tip top shade.

Ralsei sat alone in the back of the cafe, waving the two over once they walked in. He spoke with a more expected cheer to his tune. “So Kris, did you enjoy catching up with everyone?” You and Susie sat with him, Ralsei reaching out to Susie’s hand giving it a small squeeze and a reassuring smile. Seeming to try and show that he was alright.

You appeared to be free to speak, perhaps Kris was testing you. “It was nice. How have you been?” Keeping it simple, they couldn’t get mad at you for that.

Ralsei thought for a second, twiddling his beard as he spoke. “Well, I think at this point most people see me as a fantastic leader. But I must admit I don’t think I’d get this far without Susie.” He gave her a smile.

Susie chuckled. “Oh shut up you’ve done all the work! I’m just there to look tough next to you.”

They were still so close, it made Kris smile. You began speaking your own mind. “So are you two-?” Kris bit down on their tongue. That was enough.

Ralsei looked at them with a confused innocent look. “What was that Kris?”

Kris shook their head. “Sorry, bit tongue.” They stood themself up. “I should go home.” They were quick to wave the two off, heading towards the entrance of the cafe. “I’ll be back another day. I promise.”

The two watched their estranged friend leave once again. Susie letting out a deep sigh. “Well I least we got them back in. That’s something, no?”

Ralsei glared down at their clenched hands. “Yeah, I’m glad you put me through that.” He also stepped away from the table. “I’m going to meditate on a few things. Maybe you should find someone else to hang out with.” He stormed out of the cafe. Marching all the way back to the castle. He commanded the Shadowguys and Rudinns cleaning the paint off his halls to leave the second floor. He needed quiet. He sat himself down in the middle of his room. Kris, Kris just shows up after leaving for so long with barely a goodbye. They walk around town and meet everyone and then barely spend ten minutes with him and Susie after he put the effort in to try and not look hurt by them. They were his first friend, he loved them and this is how he is treated. His angry thoughts froze when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

Susie followed him to his room. She spoke softly. “Hey, I hope you don’t mind if I join you.” She sat down next to him. “It’s slow breaths to start with, yeah?”

Ralsei couldn’t help but smile. A few tears streaming past his glasses. “Yes. Let’s start with some deep breathing.”