#anyways; e. gadd can and will kill for those he cares about | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

snowyfrostshadows · 1 year

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Venture to Evershine Glade

Phineas C. Toad has invented a surefire way to permanently clear the Manor of Evershine Glade of Boos.

Until then, a kindly old man has offered Phineas his home to wait out the night before his very first pest clearing job in the morning.

---

Phineas C. Toad was, in his humble opinion quite the revolutionary. He was good with his hands, able to wrangle a new invention to better help his hometown and make life easier regularly. He was so good at what he did in fact, that he had managed to garner King Toadstool’s attention and was invited to dine with the king regarding a ‘delicate matter.’

The matter, it turned out, were Boos.

Frightfully troublesome creatures who, if weren’t watched carefully, would suck your soul right out of your body and then eat what was left of you with their horrendously jaggedly sharp teeth. And that was only if they were in a merciful mood.

If they were angry, or, Stars forbid, playful, they’d drag out your death until all that was left was a withered husk not even good enough for them to eat.

And that was only with one Boo.

And, if the good king was to be believed, a whole nest of the nasty things had sprouted up in the royal family’s summer home, Evershine Glade.

“It’s a rather big request, I am asking of you.” King Toadstool began solemnly. “But that plot, that manor, has been in my family for generations. And we’d just had the place updated to the latest standards of safety and relaxation. I’d hate to have used so much of the royal funds just to have them wasted.”

Phineas gave his king a sympathetic nod. “Of course, your Grace.”

King Toadstool sighed and clasped his hands. “I must admit, the biggest reason for my request is that I would like to take my eldest son there soon. There’s so much of our family history there, I’d be loathe for him to never know it. Maybe, if he was a little older, I’d be willing to risk a visit to at least retrieve a couple of items, but five is, I dare say, much too young to wield the crown if anything were to happen to me.”

Phineas nodded again. “Completely understandable.”

“I know it’s a lot to ask, but, is there anything you think you can do to clear my manor of those pests?”

Phineas gave his king a wide smile. “As a matter of fact, I do! It shouldn’t take much to upgrade some of my pest control devices to eradicate Boos as well.”

King Toadstool brightened, looking as if a great weight had been removed from his shoulders. “Wonderful. If you need anything in your endeavors, please, let me know. Money is no object. In fact, if you can pull this off, why, I imagine any Boo related problems will be a thing of the past!”

A warm feeling filled Phineas at his king’s praise and belief in him. “I promise, your Majesty, I will clear your home of Boos or die trying!”

King Toadstool’s smile shrank a little. “Now now, my dear friend, I’d rather you fail and come back to try again than fail and not return at all.”

Phineas couldn’t help waving his hand dismissively. “Of course. But I really do think putting together something to handle your pest problem shouldn’t be too terribly hard.”

“I certainly hope not. You have a brilliant mind, Mr. Toad. I’d hate to see it lost to the kingdom forever trying to fulfill an odd request of mine.”

“It truly is not a bother, your Majesty.” Phineas smiled as he took a sip of his tea. “I’ll have the manor cleared and ready for you in no less than two shakes of a yoshi’s tail!”

“Thank you. Truly. When the deed is done, let us celebrate your heroics and brilliance with the finest celebration I can throw.”

Phineas’ smile deepened as he took another sip of his tea. He could get used to this, he mused. And, maybe, just maybe, if he played his cards right, he could jump a station or two in life.

And all he’d have to do to kickstart that, would be to get rid of some Boos.

Easy.

It took about a month or two of hard work, but he did it.

He had, honest to Grambi himself, figured out a way to kill Boos.

Phineas was nearly giddy with excitement as he watched the small specter he’d captured disintegrate before his very eyes as it tried and failed to escape the pull of the little box beneath it.

It was, quite honestly, mesmerizing to watch. He had assumed for years that Boos despite their ability to fade in and out of sight between attacks that they were a solid-like being. But now! Watching one up close as it died, Phineas was coming to the conclusion that Boos were more smoke-like, judging by how the Boo in question was falling apart.

Seemingly all too soon, the Boo was no more.

Not a flash of white, or tooth, or even the ever present chill they produced when near, remained.

He’d done it. He’d really well and truly done it! He, Phineas C. Toad had figured out a way to destroy perhaps THE most troublesome pest in all the known kingdoms! He would go down in history not only as a great inventor, but as the Ridder of Boos!

Phineas took a deep breath as he moved to retrieve his box. He was getting ahead of himself. He may have successfully destroyed one Boo, but there was still a swarm of the things waiting for him in the Royal Family’s summer home and he’d need to make a few more boxes to stand a proper chance but now that he’d perfected the Boo Trap, it shouldn’t take him too long to do so.

And then, then he could well and truly be on his way to the history books!

After a couple more weeks, Phineas was satisfied with the number of Boo Traps he’d created. It should be more than enough to completely clear the manor within a couple of days or so depending on how exactly many of the things had set up shop there.

Loading his traveling bag with both traps and some food for the journey; Phineas set out for Evershine Glade.

It was. A longer walk than he’d expected.

On the map, the distance between Evershine and Toad Town hadn’t seemed that terribly great. One that he could easily travel within an afternoon. He was wrong.

It had taken almost two whole days and the little food he’d packed was long gone.

But, at long last, he seemed to be approaching his destination if the faint lights of a village were any indication.

Entering the first shop he came to, Phineas gave the sales clerk a small wave.

“Is this Little Rook?”

The other toad gave him a small smile. “It is. Are you visiting anyone in particular? I could probably point you in the right direction.”

Phineas gave a small laugh. “No, I’m just heading up to the Evershine Manor. ”

The toad gasped and covered her mouth. “There? It’s a lovely place, but I wouldn’t recommend anyone to travel there. It’s been invested with Boos for months.”

Phineas puffed his chest up a little. “I know. I’ve been asked by King Toadstool himself to clear the place of Boos.”

The toad’s eyes widened. “You can do that? I thought once a big enough group of Boos settled somewhere it was a lost cause and it was best to leave them to it and move on.”

“Maybe before now but I” Phineas leaned forward, smiling a little at the sales toad’s faint blush. “figured out a way to kill Boos.”

“Is that so?”

Phineas jumped a little at the sudden voice. Turning to better see the source, Phineas found himself looking at a rather small, elderly human patiently holding a basket full of items, presumably waiting to make his purchase.

He was barely taller than Phineas himself. Strange, he couldn’t help thinking, as he was fairly sure humans were supposed to be at least a good foot taller than toads. Maybe they shrank as they got older? He couldn’t say he’d met that many humans. And this one certainly looked old with his thinning gray hair and glasses so badly scratched up he couldn’t see his eyes.

Poor guy.

Phineas gave a small cough as he collected himself. “Yes. It is. It took some time, but I got it all figured out. By this time tomorrow, there won’t be a Boo left in the area!”

The human’s eyebrows raised above his glasses. “That’s quite the impressive claim. Have you done this before then?”

Phineas nodded. “Nothing quite to this scale but, I’ve gotten rid of a couple back home as tests. If this works like I know it will, then I dare say how people feel about Boos will change overnight! Imagine, a world where they’re able to be taken care of as easily as any other pest!”

The human had his chin in his hand as he looked at Phineas thoughtfully. “I dare say there’s a good chance you’re right Mr.-?”

“Phineas C. Toad! Inventor and soon to be Ridder of Boos!”

The human held out his hand. “Professor E. Gadd. Pleasure to meet you, Phineas.”

“Likewise.” Phineas replied as he shook E. Gadd’s hand.

“It’s a mighty fine thing you’re doing, m’boy. I may be new to the area myself, but I know for a fact the rest of our little community will be ever so grateful to you.”

“We really would.” The sales clerk added. “It would be so nice to pass by the manor again for walks without fear of running into a Boo.”

E. Gadd nodded. “It would. Oh! Maisy dear! I just had a wonderful idea! Why don’t you put our new friend’s purchases on my tab? Since he’s doing such a big favor for us and all.”

Maisy smiled. “I’d be happy to Professor!”

“Oh no! That won’t be necessary! I was just dropping by to make sure I was on the right path. I’ll be heading right up to the manor after this.”

A hand suddenly gripped his shoulder, drawing Phineas’ attention to E. Gadd’s worried expression. “My dear, dear boy. I don’t mean to insult you, but that is the very worst thing you could do.”

Maisy’s sudden, rapid nodding next to him made him a little uneasy. “O-Oh? And why’s that?”

“You clearly haven’t had much experience with Boos yet, but they’re at their most powerful at night. The dark fills them with energy you see and the more shadows there are, the harder it is to spot them before it’s too late. I’m afraid, if you were to attempt in your mission now, as the night falls, well. I don’t know how many you’d manage to kill before the rest swarmed you. Boos are quite protective of each other you see.”

Phineas could feel himself paling a little. Maybe this whole thing might be a little harder than he thought. “What if...I tried in the morning? The ones I got rid of back home seemed slower then.”

E. Gadd visibly brightened. “The morning is a much better time for your little attack! Boos tend to be more inactive during the day. You could even say they’re asleep then. The fact you noticed that detail with your tests really shows how clever and bright you are m’boy.”

“Well the King wouldn’t have hired me if I wasn’t!”

“Very true. Tell me, Phineas, do you have any plans on where to spend the night by chance?”

Phineas felt himself deflate a little at that. “Oh. No. I...don’t. I kind of thought this would be a short trip…”

E. Gadd nodded and gave his shoulder a sympathetic pat. “I see. Well, if it’s alright with you, you’re free to spend the night with me.”

“Oh I coul-”

“That’s a marvelous idea Professor!” Maisy turned to him, eyes bright. “Believe it or not, but Professor E. Gadd actually lives near the manor! If you spent the night with him, you could probably strike those Boos right as the sun rises!”

Phineas blinked. “Oh. I. Suppose I will then, Professor. It’ll certainly save me some time. Thank you!”

“Oh don’t mention it. Lemme just buy my groceries, and then we’ll be on our way.”

“Please, allow me.”

“You don’t have to do that!”

“I insist. You’re letting me stay at your home to rest and presumably eat before I head off tomorrow. The least I can do is repay you in some small way for your hospitably.”

E. Gadd laughed a little and waved a hand. “Fine, fine. Don’t need to twist my arm over it. I swear, you young’uns are so polite. Makes me feel good about the future.”

Smiling, Phineas payed for the professor’s items (at a slight discount from Maisy if he wasn’t wrong. Bless these two kind souls. Still so nice and generous even after having to put up with a nest of Boos for so long.)

Once that was all settled, E. Gadd led the way to his house.

“I’m kind of impressed you chose to live so close to the manor despite all those Boos hanging around.”

E. Gadd shrugged. “I’m a sucker for a good deal I’m afraid. The previous owner basically sold the place for pennies he was so nervous over his new neighbors.”

“And you aren’t?” Phineas couldn’t help asking curiously.

“Eh. You live long enough and you find not much scares you. Besides, I’ve found that if I don’t bother them they don’t bother me.”

“Huh. I didn’t think Boos could be capable of leaving anyone alone.”

“I imagine there’s a lot we don’t know about Boos.”

“True…” Phineas frowned a little. “What exactly do you study by the way?”

“Oh, mostly fauna. Some flora when it’s slow. That’s actually mostly why I decided to move here. There were some excellent specimens nearby that I can’t find easily anywhere else. And it’s nice to see and catch up with an old friend.”

“That must be nice.”

“Oh it is. I dare say I haven’t seen him in about...forty years at this point?” E. Gadd laughed. “Silly thing hasn’t changed a bit! Although, I can’t say I have much either.”

“Forty years is quite the long time...is it okay to ask what happened?”

“Oh nothing really. Just a bit of a falling out you could say. He claimed I studied too much which, honestly was rich coming from him considering how much of a workaholic he is.” E. Gadd sighed “Another thing I’ve realized with age is it’s best to hold on to what you’ve got for as long as you can. Not everything can last forever.”

Phineas hesitated. “If it’s not too prudent to ask, is everything working out between you two now?”

“Oh yes. It’s almost like that argument never happened. I could tell you right now, I wouldn’t still be here and helping him whenever I can if I didn’t still like him.”

“That’s good.”

“Mm. Anyways, we’re here. Go ahead and make yourself comfortable while I put my groceries away. Then, if you’re not too tired, we can have some tea and talk some more. I must say, I am deeply curious of this method of killing Boos you’ve found.”

Phineas grinned. “You’re going to love it! It’s quite ingenious if I do say so myself!”

For a moment, he could have sworn the professor’s smile looked a little strained as he replied. “I’m sure I will.” but, it was probably a trick of the fading light outside as they entered the slightly darkened house.

To Phineas’s surprise, he didn’t see any candles or gaslights waiting to be lit. In fact, if he wasn’t mistaken, there were, honest to Grambi, a few electrical light bulbs scattered throughout the small house.

“You have electricity?” he asked, absolutely delighted at the discovery.

“I do.” E. Gadd called distractedly from where Phineas assumed to be the kitchen. “It seems to be where progress is headed next and I find it to be much safer and easier to use while doing some late night work. Do you have any preference for your tea?”

“Not really.” Phineas gazed around the room appreciatively. “This really is quite impressive, Professor. Must of been quite the cost to set this all up. I know the toads back home insist they don’t need anything more complex than a candle or two, but I think they’re just scared of a little change that’ll cost them more than twenty coins!”

Seemingly having finished up in the kitchen, E. Gadd joined him in the main room. “Change is hard to accept sometimes unfortunately.” His smile widened a bit. “Fortunately for me, I didn’t have to find anyone to come up and help. I got everything set up and changed over myself.” He took a set at the table and gestured for Phineas to join him.

“Now. While we wait for the water to boil, why don’t you tell me more about that bit of clever work you’re so proud of.”

Phineas brightened a bit as he took a seat across from the human and taking out one of his traps from his pack to show the professor.

“It’s a fairly simple idea, if I’m being honest. I set one of these out like so,” Phineas pressed a button and watched with pride as the device opened up, revealing a dark, almost electric looking orb inside. “A boo floats by, gets trapped by...whatever that is, I’m thinking of calling it booradium as it eradicates the things beautifully, and then, they die! Amazing what a little engineering and old fashioned alchemy can do if I do say so myself!”

“May I?”

“Oh of course! Best way to learn anything is to tinker around with it yourself. I’d say careful not to break it but,” Phineas grinned as he patted his pack proudly. “I’ve got plenty more where that came from!”

E. Gadd nodded as he carefully took the box and studied it. “I dare say you do. Very clever work Phineas.” he frowned a little. “I don’t suppose you brought all your traps with you? It’d be horrible if something happened to you if you weren’t properly prepared.”

“I did, in fact. I wanted to get here as fast as I could, as this is for the King himself you see-” “So I’ve heard.” “-I figured I’d take my initial box, make as many copies as I could for this venture and see about making any adjustments afterwards.”

“Smart.” E. Gadd replied dryly as a whistle sounded from the kitchen. “That’ll be the tea. I’ll be right back.”

He paused for a moment and looked back. “You don’t by any chance take any sugar or honey with your tea do you?”

Phineas shook his head. “No, I actually prefer to take my tea as is. More flavorful that way.”

E. Gadd smiled and nodded as he continued towards the kitchen.

During the couple minutes it took for the human to retrieve the tea for his guest, Phineas studied the room he was in.

It really was a cozy little house, if a bit lonely looking. He couldn’t even spot any portraits of friends or family the old man might have had to lend some hint of his life.

It was. Kind of odd if he thought about it, but, then again, perhaps those were private and the good professor preferred to keep those sorts of mementos to himself, away from prying eyes.

“I’m afraid the taste may be a little more bitter than you’re used to.” E. Gadd’s apologetic tone snapped Phineas out of his thoughts. “It seems the leaves I have are a bit older than I thought.” He sighed as he laid a silver tray laden with the teapot, two cups and plates and a couple of cookies on the table. “If I’d known, I’d have made sure to pick up some new ones while I was in town.” E. Gadd gave him a small smile. “Next time, I suppose.”

Phineas gave his host a wide smile. “It’s quite alright! I actually don’t mind a little variety in my tea from time to time!”

Then, to better prove his point, Phineas leaned forward and picked up the teapot, filled both cups and took a large drink of his and gave the professor another warm smile. “Delicious!”

And it was! Mostly. There was a sharp, bitter tang to the tea like E. Gadd had warned him but it wasn’t an overwhelming bitterness. It should be easy enough to mostly ignore.

E. Gadd’s smile grew as he retook his own seat and took a sip from his own cup. “I’m glad to hear that.” He took a cookie and began to slowly swirl it in his tea.

“Now, you’ve mentioned the King hired you for this job?”

Phineas couldn’t help puffing up at that. “He did! It’s his summer home up there you know, and he’s desperate to have it cleared up so that he and the Royal family can visit again. There’s apparently quite a bit of history there too that he doesn’t want to lose forever either.”

“Is there now.” E. Gadd frowned a little as he absentmindly took a bite of his cookie. “I...don’t suppose he has other brilliant minds like yours working on this problem of his, are there? Any other Toads ready to charge up there just in case, or that worked on that wonderful little box of yours back home?”

“No no, just me.” Phineas took a cookie for himself and nearly cracked a tooth on it. “These are rather...dry.”

E. Gadd sighed and gave him an apologetic look. “That’s my bad I’m afraid. I’m not the best baker in the world and I made these a few days ago…” He brightened a little and gestured towards Phineas’ cup. “I do find dipping them in tea does wonders for their edibility though.”

Phineas returned the smile as he followed E. Gadd’s advice, letting the cookie soak in a bit of the liquid before trying it again. To his surprise, it was actually pretty good and negated the bitter taste of the tea slightly.

Bad at baking his cap. The professor was a wizard at the craft! Phineas took another bit of his cookie and winced a little. Although maybe he could try baking at a lower temperature next time or at the very least take the cookies out sooner.

“I must say Phineas, I’m happy for you. You’re a very clever young man. I find it very impressive you did this all by yourself.” E. Gadd took a sip of his tea. “I imagine you made some easy to replicate notes of your discovery?”

Phineas shrugged. “Somewhat. Just a couple bits jolted down here and there back home. But I’m young enough that I don’t think I need to really worry about writing everything down. Good memory and all. Though I think I might organize and write this method of permanently getting rid of boos once I get home. For posterity.”

E. Gadd nodded. “For posterity. More tea?”

Phineas glanced down at his cup and noted it was almost half gone. Phineas gave the human a small smile and offered the human his cup for a refill. “Please. You know, I do say I think the taste is growing on me a little.”

E. Gadd chuckled as he topped off both their cups. “Good. To be honest, it’s a favorite of mine. I do regret sharing it with you as old as it is. A good friend like you deserves fresher leaves than this.”

Phineas laughed and waved a hand. “It’s fine! Truly! The bitterness adds a bit of a much needed kick to keep me going after a long day of walking.”

“Good! Remind me to give you some leaves before you return home. I dare say you’d be quite the talk at any tea social.” E. Gadd gave him a warm smile as he took another sip of his tea. “Those are still a thing I hope? I’m afraid I’ve gotten too old to tell what’s still relevant in the wider social circles.”

“Oh they are! In fact, I’d be delighted if you ever decided to come to Toad Town to visit. It’d only be fair for me to host you in my home and introduce you to some of my friends as you’ve been so kind to me since I arrived.”

“That’s very kind of you but you don’t need to entertain a silly old man like myself.”

“I insist!” Phineas pulled his pack off and begun digging through it. “In fact, let me give you my address. I just need to find some paper…”

“You’re really too kind m’boy. But if you really mean it...here. I always carry some paper and a pencil in case I come across something interesting.”

Phineas gratefully took the offered items and quickly jolted down his address.

“I do think you’d like Toad Town. Bright, warm. Lots of friendly faces.”

“Mm.” E. Gadd hummed as he gently folded up the paper and placed it in a pocket. “Perhaps. I find I much prefer the solitude I’ve found living up here though. Easier to do my work you see.”

Phineas nodded before wincing at the sudden headache the action raised. “Understandable. You said you studied the local fauna here?”

“Mmhm. Rather shy beings I’m afraid. One of the main reasons it’s best to live away from close knit, colorful little populaces.”

“Ah.”

Phineas felt a small shiver shake his body. Thankfully, a quick sip of his still warm tea chased that chill right away. A horrible thought struck him.

“Living so close to a boo nest...they don’t. They don’t come here do they?”

“Oh no. I believe they much prefer the bigger, roomier mansion than my little, old, ramshackle building. You are perfectly safe from Boos here. I can assure you, they won’t bother you while you rest here for the night.”

“...how can you be sure though?”

E. Gadd laughed. “Well I’m still here and I’ve been living here for months without incident haven’t I?”

Phineas laughed with him. “Very true.”

Conversation with the Professor was...odd after that.

He was still cordial, and cheerful, and easy to talk to but, there was almost something somewhat off about it.

E. Gadd would answer his questions as politely and enthusiastically as ever, but for the life of him, Phineas couldn’t get much out of him regarding his work or even his friend he’d missed so much to come back for.

Instead, most of the conversation remained centered around him, his work, how much of it was Boo related, if it was a newer study he’d started getting into and if so, if he knew if others were as well. And of course, the professor asked about King Toadstool himself and if he knew much of what he was up to.

It was odd. No two spots about it, but, Phineas couldn’t quite fault the old human for being so curious about the going-ons in a town so close to the royal family and their castle as secluded as he was from the rest of the world. Especially if he only visited the nearby village for short bursts at a time.

...and, it was rather nice to have this much attention focused on him and his work.

So no, Phineas couldn’t quite fault the Professor for leading most of the conversation.

About halfway through his third cup however, Phineas’s body shook with the sudden coarse coughs that escaped him, only managing to make it through them it seemed by E. Gadd quickly rising to stand by his side and comfortingly rub his back.

“I’m so sorry,” he rasped after finally getting his throat under control. “I don’t know what came over...me…” Phineas stared in disbelief at the blood covering his hand as he pulled it away from his mouth. “...wha-?”

“That, I believe, would be from your organs liquefying. Took them long enough. But, you toads are rather resilient. I was starting to think I’d have to brew another pot soon.”

Phineas woodenly pulled his gaze away from his hand to meet E. Gadd’s, barely believing what he was hearing before freezing at what he saw.

It. Hadn’t really dawned on him how close the professor would have to be to rub his back. Or that with that closeness, he’d be able to fully see all of the human’s face. Eyes included.

Because while E. Gadd’s mouth was still drawn up in a cheerful, friendly smile as it had been all night since Phineas had first met him in the shop, his eyes were cold. And calculating. And so very very angry.

“What did. What did you do to me?”

“Poisoned you.” E. Gadd’s smile turned as sharp and cruel as his eyes. “Really Phineas, I’d think a smart boy like you could figure at least that out.” He gestured to the teapot as he returned to his seat. “The tea, child.”

Phineas stared at the pot. Then the cups. And then back at E. Gadd whose eyes, thankfully, were hidden behind his scratched up glasses again. “The tea.” He repeated flatly. “That we were both drinking.”

E. Gadd nodded, smirking now.

“Does it only affect toads then?”

The human laughed. “Oh stars no. I daresay it works even faster on humans. We don’t have a very good defense against toxins I’m afraid. As much as I dislike you, I will say I’m impressed with how long it took to affect you. I may even have to double the dosage if I ever have to do this again.”

Phineas stared at the hu-E. Gadd in horror. “What the hell are you?”

“I’m human.”

“Then how are you-” Phineas coughed again, even harder this time and tried not to think about how both freezing cold and burning hot he felt. “How are you not,” he weakly gestured at himself. “dying too?”

“I have a very good insurance premium.”

Phineas stared at him dumbfounded, which only served to make the monster in front of him laugh even harder.

“Oh. I’ll have to remember that for Barty later. He probably won’t get it, but it’s a good one right?”

Phineas licked his lips and nearly gagged at the taste of blood on them. “W-Why are you...doing this?”

E. Gadd frowned a little at that. “That, my dear boy, is a. More delicate topic than we currently have time for.” He raised a hand to stall Phineas’ next words. “I assure you, I will get into it in about…” E. Gadd gave a small hum as he tapped the table. “Ten minutes or so? By then I believe you’ll be coherent enough to properly listen.”

“Wha. What do you meeean. Cooo-?” Phineas slumped forward, face just barely missing his plate and cup from earlier. Dimly, as parts of his body went numb before shutting down for good, Phineas wondered if the Professor had moved them when he’d come over to rub his back when this nightmare he’d found himself in became known.

He wasn’t sure what he was more upset about. Being murdered for no reason or that E. Gadd apparently cared more for his dishware than another, living being.

When Phineas woke up again, it was in confusion.

The last thing he fully remembered was to E. Gadd confessing to murdering him and then laughing about it with the rest of his memories being a mess of pain and splintered moments.

The second thing that registered within him, was not only was he apparently somehow alive again but cold.

“You certainly took your sweet time. Nearly fifteen minutes. Had me worried I wouldn’t be able to kill you a second time.”

Phineas instinctively recoiled at his killer’s voice, barely even registering how almost impossible it was that he was moving at all without feeling, well, anything.

E. Gadd came into view, alarmingly much bigger than he’d last seen him. Phineas moved further back.

“What?” the man asked mockingly, “No sudden desire to suck my soul from my body? Tear me limb from limb?”

“Why. Why would I want to do that?”

E. Gadd’s brows rose comically over his glasses. “You mean to tell me you aren’t filled with the mindless desire to destroy and devour everything in sight now that you’re a Boo?”

“N-No?” Phineas froze as the last word the professor said hit him. “I’m a. I’m a Boo?” Fearfully, he held his hands to his face and found only white nubs in front of him. “I’m a Boo.” he repeated numbly in disbelief.

Dragging his gaze back to the only other person in the room, Phineas stared in E. Gadd in horror.

“Why would you do this to me?” He wailed.

“You were going to murder an entire manor full of Boos that never bothered you or anyone else in the area.” E. Gadd snarled at him, face twisted into murderous rage. “And for what? Glory? Money? A splattering of attention from that doddering fool you call King who can’t bother doing anything for himself and instead relies on blathering twats like you to get anything done?!”

Phineas wailed harder as he hid his face in his nubs. “But they’re just Boos!”

“Like you!” E. Gadd roared back. “Actually, I take that back, every single one of those Boos are leagues better than you’ll ever be and to compare you to one of them is an insult I won’t sink to. Because they never let their Ego or Fear compel them to murder an entire species!”

The human took a step back, breathing heavily. “But I’m a reasonable man, Phineas.” E. Gadd ran a hand through his hair and gave him a tight smile that only had him shivering more.

“You worked very hard on that little toy of yours. And as a fellow inventor, I know how much it pains you to know it’ll never be used again.” E. Gadd’s smile turned vicious. “Which is why I think I can stand to see it in action one final time, reprehensible as it is, just for you Phineas.”

The little Boo only had time for one small little “Wha-?” before E. Gadd dropped a very familiar device on the floor and lightly kicked it towards him before he registered what, exactly, was happening.

When it did, Phineas screamed in terror as he attempted to move away from his creation but it was already too late.

The booradiam, as he’d affectionately called it while alive, had gripped onto the edge of his tail and had begun the process of shredding him molecule by molecule and no matter how hard he tried to escape its’ grip, it only seemed to quicken the process.

The very last thing the being once known as Phineas C. Toad ever saw was the icy glare of one Professer E. Gadd.

As the fearful and pained screams from perhaps the most disgusting twat he had ever had the misfortune of running into during his long life faded, Elvin made his way to Phineas’s murder box and picked it up.

Frowning, he placed a couple of fingers in the center to better judge, what exactly he was working with here. Ignoring the prickling sensation of new skin and muscle being replaced as quickly as it was being destroyed, Elvin ran the tips around the circumference and even the little orb the twat had been so proud of.

Biting his lip as bone joined the near constant cycle of destruction and regrowth, Elvin prodded as deep in the device as he cared to at the moment.

On the brightside, it didn’t seem like the ‘booradium’ wasn’t solid matter so destroying it in his house probably wouldn’t leave any bits or pieces for a poor random boo (or, Grambie forbid, Him) to float over and suffer from. But if it was what he suspected it to be...well. He’d have to do some tinkering and figure out a way that wouldn’t wind up in him having to walk off several explosions.

Sighing, Elvin removed his fingers from the box and turned the thing off before walking over and dropping it in with the rest of the despicable things in the toad’s travel pack and taking the whole thing to his room and locking the door.

He’d. Store it in a better, more Boo-Proof location later when the poisoned tea he’d had with Phineas wasn’t still in his system.

It couldn’t kill him, but the damage dealt by the plant definitely took its sweet time repairing itself.

In the meantime, he would make himself an actually soothing drink and relax on the couch. Maybe even take a nap while he waited for his strength to return and he could properly deal with the Great Git’s body before anyone from the village decided to visit to see how Phineas’ murder spree went.

Elvin sighed as he rubbed his eyes from beneath his glasses.

This was going to be an absolutely wonderful week.

King Boo stared in stunned disbelief at the...half melted corpse(???) lying slumped on Elvin’s table.

“Elvin you better not be trying to make more boos again.” He muttered under his breath as he slowly floated through the little house looking for the insane little human.

One of these days, that man would do something so catastrophically stupid and wind up as a boo himself. And when that happened, he’d point and laugh at him before taking pity on the idiot and drag him back home with him.

Until then, he just had find the idiot first.

A sudden snort drew his attention towards the living room. Following the noise, King Boo found his human sleeping on the couch.

It was sort of cute. Seeing Elvin all relaxed, a bit paler than normal and...now that he was looking at him, Elvin actually didn’t seem that relaxed. His face was all tight and...frowning. Hm.

Still staring intently at the human, King Boo raised a nub and slapped him.

“WAKE UP!”

Elvin jolted forward, eyes wide. “What’s happening?!”

“I don’t know know. Why don’t you tell me.”

Elvin turned and looked up at him. “’Mew?” Suddenly his eyes widened as he leaned forward to put his glasses on as he looked over him worriedly (??? What on earth had E. Gadd been up to today?)

“What are you doing here?”

King Boo frowned. “Visiting? I’d ask if you were worried about another guest seeing us, but I see you already took care of that.” Bootholomew gestured towards the table, where, yep, the corpse was still there. “Gadd. What the Jaydees am I looking at over there? What did you do?”

Elvin leaned around him and scowled at the corpse. “There was a problem. I fixed it.”

Bootholomew stared at him before throwing up his nubs in disbelief. “Via murder?! Again?!”

Elvin glared up at him. “You say that like I have a problem or something.” “You do!” Gadd sighed and pinched his nose. “Agree to disagree.” he sighed again, somehow sounding even more tired. “Believe me when I say that twat didn’t give me any other option than to double kill him.”

“...Double kill.”

“Mm. He somehow figured out a way to kill Boos. Little git was bound and determined to march up to your manor and ‘exterminate’ you all.” E. Gadd’s mouth twisted up in disgust at that, “I couldn’t exactly let that stand now could I?”

King Boo stared down at him, stunned. “And this method he had. Did it work?”

Elvin gave a tight nod. “Watched it myself.”

Before he could properly work himself into a huff that Elvin had apparently just stood aside and watched a boo be destroyed, the human gave his side a gentle pat. “Relax Barty; double kill, remember? He was so proud of the thing, figured he would probably enjoy being the last person to experience it.”

Bootholomew gave a dark chuckle at that before pausing at a sudden weight against him. Glancing down at E. Gadd, King Boo frowned. Elvin...wasn’t usually this clingy. Or this pale come to think of it.

“...are you okay?”

Elvin gave a small hum and waved a hand. “Just tired. Drank something that didn’t quite agree with me earlier. I just need a moment more of rest, and then I’ll be right as rain, Barty.”

“Uh huh.”

“I will!”

“And what, exactly do you think you’ll be doing ‘after a moment’?”

Elvin leaned a little more against him. “Well, take care of the twat for starters. Can’t exactly have folks see what happened to my guest. Then I’ll probably draft up a letter to the Mushroom King, seems he’s upset you all moved into a mansion he wasn’t using. Twat. And then I’ll have to go to our would-be murderer’s home in Toad Town and clear it so no one else gets any bright ideas. Oh! But first I need to move his stupid boxes into a more secure location so neither you or your boos get ripped apart while I’m gone.”

“Sounds exhausting.”

Elvin shrugged. “It is what it is. But I’ll have everything in order soon enough.”

“Mmhm.” Bootholomew frowned a little more as he listened to his human ramble and gently lit his crown with a sleeping spell.

He wasn’t blind, he could see his old friend growing older and slowing down with each passing year. Why E. Gadd thought he could keep up the same rapid pace he’d had when they first met was mind-mindboggling to him.

For such a smart guy, it sure seemed to be taking Elvin a long time to realize it’d just be better to hurry up and die already.

Although...King Boo couldn’t help thinking as E. Gadd slumped against him as the sleep spell took hold, maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing the guy was still kicking.

Who knows how many boos he could have lost tonight if Elvin hadn’t still been around to take a wanna-be hunter home and murder him in cold blood not once but twice?

At the very least, he owned the guy at least one favor. Gently wrapping Elvin in his magic, Bootholomew carefully placed him back on the couch, this time in a position that wouldn’t wreck his back (did humans just. Hate having a operational spine???) and floated over to stare at the mushroom baby.

Grambi.

These things just got uglier the more he had to look at them, and that was even before Elvin had did...whatever it was he did to this one.

Picking it up much more roughly with his magic, King Boo carried the thing out towards the garden and unceremoniously dropped it near a twisted old tree and a couple of bushes to hide it from whatever rare passerby dared come near their home.

Satisfied with his work, King Boo floated back into the house and turned off the lights with his magic before settling near E. Gadd.

Elvin better appreciate him taking care of one his tasks for him.

He could be so needy sometimes, it was ridiculous.

And he may as well stay the rest of the night. And part of the morning too. They had a lot to discuss over what Elvin had learned over the past few hours.

Besides, knowing that dolt, he’d probably forget to eat in his rush to get as much done during the day.

Feeling comfortably settled, King Boo closed his eyes so that he could doze next to his idiot inventor.

There was a lot of work ahead of them, and for matters like this; it was best to be as well-rested as possible.

#my fics #e. gadd #king boo #was thinking about a situation where e. gadd might be a little more...villainous than we see in the main series #and well; i figure there may be times he sides with the boos living next door than the occasional Livings that pass by #anyways; e. gadd can and will kill for those he cares about #dating era #tw: death #tw: poison #tw: body horror #*sobs* this ended up being so much longer than i planned; why do i keep doing this to myself????

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anomander-dragnipurake · 4 years

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Possessed Part 2 Chapter Eight: Free?

He woke up slowly, feeling groggy and heavy. He hated it already and wasn’t in the mood for it. So he rolled over and… fell of whatever he’d been lying on.

Suddenly very much awake, his eyes flew open as he landed on the floor. Thankfully the fall had been short because it was uncarpeted concrete. Awake now, whether he liked it or not, he took a deep breath as he sat up to examine his surroundings.

It was a small room that almost resembled a living room. He’d been lying on the couch in the middle of the room that faced an old coffee table that supported and even older looking TV. Those were the only items in the room other than for a flashlight on the coffee table and a chair placed by the couch. It was from E. Gadd’s lab, meaning this room was probably one of the back rooms that acted as E. Gadd’s living space. Given that, it was unsurprising how sparse the room was, E. Gadd wouldn’t be spending much time in it.

Speaking of the lab though, it was the last thing he remembered. He’d been strapped into the KBE, the door had closed and then… nothing. … Had it worked? …

His mind was quiet; no thoughts but his own, no internal voice but his own, no emotions but his own, and most of all no contention between himself and another being. It was just him alone in his mind and it was amazing. Peace and quiet at long last, he’d forgotten what that was like. … There was a problem though.

Using the couch’s armrest, he pulled himself up to his feet. He then looked down at his hands and body; the meatsuit. It felt both right and wrong to have it even if he was used to it by now. … If the KBE had worked, he was supposed to be a free-floating ghost again, right? … No, actually this was right, he was still alive and it was his body and it was finally entirely his again as it should be. … Both of those couldn’t be true and yet they were meaning… … … …

“It failed,” he mumbled aloud to himself, unable to stop staring at his hands. E. Gadd had warned that it might pull their souls closer instead. He was both King Boo and Luigi and while also neither of them. Try as he might he couldn’t find any separation between them in his mind. Their souls had merged into one and that soul was his.

With a heavy sigh, he flopped back onto the couch. He wanted to be angry about this and kind of was but also… his mind was so quiet. No anger but his own, no fear but his own, no fighting with words or for control, no one leeching off his magic anymore, it was finally just his again, just as his body was solely his own again as well. This wasn’t the outcome either side of him had wanted but it wasn’t nearly as bad as he’d thought it’d be. … Both Luigi and King Boo would’ve been horrified and disgusted by it but he didn’t care.

What now though? What kind of existence would he have now? Who exactly was he? He needed a new name for sure, right? Neither ‘Luigi’ or ‘King Boo’ felt right anymore. And… he needed to tell people.

How would the boos react? How would Mario react? What about E. Gadd and Gooigi? Or Peach? Was he still technically king of the Boo Kingdom? Would they want him as their king still? … Would he be abandoned by everyone he’d ever loved?

With an angry growl he stood up and physically shook those thoughts away. He wouldn’t know how they all felt about him now until he told them and if they all didn’t like him and/or didn’t want to follow him anymore then… so be it. He couldn’t blame them for that given the circumstances and he wasn’t pathetic and whiny anymore so he’d deal with it… or he’d try to at least.

Before his thoughts could spiral any further, he stood back up and located the door that probably led back to the lab. He strode over to it and carefully opened to peek through.

Yep, it was E. Gadd’s lab all right. And E. Gadd was in. His back was to King Boo/Luigi as he worked on the KBE. Its paneling was open and he was digging around its insides with the help of Gooigi’s flashlight.

Silently as possible, Luigi/King Boo stepped through the door and gently closed it behind him. He crept over until he was right behind E. Gadd and Gooigi, still unnoticed. “Boo!” he shouted, loudly clapping his hands together as well.

E. Gadd startled, making an undignified yelp of surprise before he snapped around. Gooigi didn’t flinch – disappointing but not surprising –they did turn around as well though.

“Luigi!” E. Gadd said, holding a hand to his chest as he let out a breath. “Or I guess King Boo, don’t do that. But uh… you’re finally awake. It’s been…” he glanced at his wrist watch, “almost twenty-four hours now. We were starting to get worried.”

He clearly didn’t know how badly his machine had failed so… “What happened?”

“Well the KBE failed obviously and in doing so it drew too much power and almost exploded. The power surge fried pretty much everything else too, I just got the power back on a few hours ago. The KBE is in a poor state now as you can see but I’m confident that I can get it working again in a day or two and improve it so that it has a higher chance of working this time. So uh… don’t worry Luigi, you’ll be free of King Boo soon still, just a few more days.” He wasn’t very good at being comforting but he was trying and that was nice. Too bad it was for nothing though.

“Don’t bother, you’ll just be wasting your time.” There was no way this could be undone.

E. Gadd had started to turn back to his work but froze. “What do mean?”

“I’ll say it like this: you’re prediction was right, my kindness does outweigh my bloodlust,” in this instance anyway, he doubted that would always be the case, “and thus I have no desire to kill you even if I am mad at you for failing.”

For a second or two E. Gadd looked confused but then with a small gasp it seemed to click. He opened his mouth as if to say something but nothing came out.

It was Gooigi that broke the silence with an “Uh-oh.” Their face was expressionless as always but their voice was distraught.

“Yeah, ‘uh-oh’, indeed,” King Boo/Luigi said with a sigh.

“I’m sorry,” E. Gadd finally found his voice. “I… didn’t… I failed… I’m sorry.” He looked away, pulling his arms in on himself. He was far more upset than Luigi or King Boo had ever seen him before. … There was no excitement about the potential test subject he’d just got; he really did care more for Luigi than his ghost studies. That had already been made pretty clear but… the full confirmation of it was something else entirely. Luigi had had a good friend.

“It’s uh… really not so bad.” Luigi/King Boo forced a smile for him. “My mind is finally at peace. No more pathetic whining and whimpering and no more being hurt or tormented with literally no escape. It’s finally over. This is far better than staying as two separate minds stuck in the same body.”

E. Gadd’s shoulders slumped. “I know but… you deserved better. I thought I could fix it but… I guess not.”

This was the worst. How was one supposed to comfort someone when it was their own existence that was the problem? It was impossible, wasn’t it? So… “Where’s Mario?” he asked because he needed to get the whole telling everyone he cared about that he was a combination of someone they loved and someone they hated before he could figure out what to do next. He wasn’t looking forward to it and part of him would prefer to hide from everyone and everything instead. He’d never liked being a coward and now he just hated it more.

“I sent him out to take Polterpup for a walk,” E. Gadd answered as he abandoned the KBE to sit at his desk instead. Gooigi just sat down on the floor where they were already. “He wouldn’t sleep and he’s been hovering around you a lot so I figured some fresh air would do him some good. He should be back soon though.”

With nothing more to say to either him or Gooigi, Luigi/King Boo strode out to wait in the front part of the lab. He thankfully didn’t have to wait long, not even five minutes passed before the door opened and Polterpup came bounding in following shortly after by Mario.

“Puppy,” King Boo/Luigi greeted Polterpup as he came running up for a pet.

“Luigi?” Mario said, his voice full of worry and hope, making it impossible to stay focusing on Polterpup. Oh gosh, there were bags under his eyes too, he indeed clearly hadn’t slept. “How do you feel?”

“Not too bad actually.”

“Oh, that’s good. E. Gadd said that he can fix the KBE pretty fast and that next time it should work so don’t…”

“There won’t be a next time,” King Boo/Luigi interrupted. “It’d be a waste of time.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean Luigi and King Boo have become one person and that person is me.” He pointed to himself, putting on a slight smirk to hide his true feelings about revealing this. “I doubt it can be undone at this point so refer to me as… ‘Booigi’ should do for now. I might change it later but I need a new name, a combination of my two old ones isn’t a bad choice.”

The despair that took over Mario’s face as those words sunk in would’ve greatly pleased King Boo but King Boo’s hate for him had never been as strong as Luigi’s love. As a whole, the stronger feeling won over, leaving Booigi feeling kind of awful.

The silence stretched as Booigi waited for Mario to say something. He didn’t though, instead he just looked at Booigi, tired and… sad; grieving.

“I’m sorry,” Booigi finally said, letting his shoulders slump. He didn’t want to show weakness but caring for someone wasn’t weak, right? “For what it’s worth though, this is far better than what I was going through before. For both my halves honestly but especially the half of me that is Luigi. I’m not suffering anymore, that’s good, right?” Right now, it was enough for him.

Mario thought about it for a few long seconds before slowly nodding. “Yeah, that’s better then… what he was going through before. But… but… it’s just wrong. How could that… happen? I was supposed to… protect him and now…” he trailed off with a vague hand gesture, not even looking at Booigi anymore.

“You need some sleep. What me to take you home?” He needed to go see the boos and ghosts that had followed King Boo for countless years now and tell them the news too but he could take some time to drive Mario home at least.

Mario mumbled something unintelligible in response. With a sigh, Booigi decided to take it as assent. He put a hand on Mario’s shoulder to guide him back out the door.

“You want to come too puppy?” he asked, pausing with the door open to look back at Polterpup. “Come back to where you belong and stop being a traitor?” Ghost animals were rare so he’d be very welcome back at the mansion.

Polterpup whined and got up but it was only to run in a little circle before sitting down again. He probably hadn’t understood the offer but regardless, he clearly wanted to stay here.

“All right, take good care of E. Gadd and Gooigi for me then.”

Mario was asleep long before Booigi pulled up into the driveway of his house. Not wanting to bother with carrying him, Booigi levitated him into the house and to his bed instead. Using the same magic, he even pulled off his shoes and tucked him in. Hopefully he’d sleep for a long time and wake up feeling a bit better about all this… probably not though.

Before leaving, Booigi popped back into Luigi’s old room to gather his clothes and the L hat that had appeared on the bedside table overnight one night. King Boo hadn’t liked it and thus they hadn’t worn it ever but even if it didn’t match his sense of style, Booigi wanted to keep it for old time’s sake.

Luigi’s fear of the haunted woods and King Boo’s enjoyment of them combined into a peculiar feeling. It was kind of like fear but the kind of fear one got while enjoying a horror movie; not necessarily pleasant but not at all bad either. Overall, Booigi would say he liked them but he wouldn’t want to spend a long time in them.

What he didn’t like though was the jump-scare he got when a group of boos jumped out into his path. He flinched and jumped back a little before he could reign it in, ugh! Thankfully the boos didn’t seem to notice as they launched right into talking to him.

“You’re back boss!”

“And you’re still in Luigi!”

“We heard about the soul merging thing does this mean that… that happened?”

“It can’t have happened, right? What would we do without you?”

“You’re just here to turn him into a painting, right? Like how you were going…”

“Hush,” Booigi cut in, needing to only raise his voice a little to make them all fall silent immediately. “That’s what I’m here to discuss with you. Gather everyone currently around just outside the mansion.”

Most of the boos seemed to relax, a few seemed to gather that something was wrong though as their worried expressions deepened. All of them obeyed though, quickly scattering.

With a sigh, Booigi continued on. Just telling E. Gadd and Mario had been bad, now he had to tell all his followers. Would they still want to follow him? … Did he still even want to lead them? … Yes, how much King Boo cared for them, dampened the remaining dregs of Luigi’s fear of them. And he still had ambition, not as much as King Boo had for sure, but he wouldn’t be content wondering around doing nothing. He was going to accomplish things, he just didn’t know what anymore.

By the time he reached the mansion, many ghosts had already gathered just outside it, waiting for him. He levitated himself up to float above them all, putting himself in a relaxed posture that he did his best to make look not forced. All their murmuring quieted as everyone turned to look at him. He didn’t say anything yet though, more were still coming.

He hid his not so newfound nervousness well when he did finally address them a short time later when it seemed everyone around was present. “All of you have heard about my situation by now I’m sure.” King Boo had made sure of that. “Every attempt to fix it has failed and now I exist; half your King Boo and half Luigi.”

Audible gasps of course answered that followed by many bursting into questions. There were so many talking at once it was impossible to pick out any one voice.

“Hush.” He had to raise his voice a bit louder this time but it still mostly worked, there were still a few murmurs. “I really don’t know how to proceed from here but…” But what? He hadn’t really planned this speech out, trusting that it would just come to him. That’s how King Boo had always done speeches, apparently that ability didn’t carry over. “… but… you guys still need a king; I could still be that if everyone’s all right with it.”

He could just about kick himself for how he’d worded that, making it almost sound like a meek request. But their opinion was important, he’d never had to enforce his rule with violence and wouldn’t do so now. If they didn’t want him as their ruler anymore, he’d just have to deal with it.

The crowd erupted into more talking. Everyone was concerned and wanted to have a say about something or ask a question. None of it was helpful though, especially with it all being thrown out at once.

“You have a month to decide if you still think I’m fit to rule, then we’ll hold a vote.” He had to use to magic to make his voice louder now so he could be heard over the crowd. “For now, I have some stuff I need to attend to privately.”

And with that, he fled. He tried to disguise it as merely leaving but… he was fleeing and he hated it. He had a lot to think about though, the kind best done in private. Like who was he now? Was Mario still his brother? E. Gadd his friend? What about his boos, did he still have a right to be their king when he was only half dead? What did he even want now? He didn’t know but he intended to find out.

I thought long and hard about doing two endings; this one and one where the KBE works and they're free. I decided to just go with this one because it's what felt the most right for the story. However if y'all want me to, I could see what I can do about writing an alternate happy ending too. It wouldn't be much of a bother at all, I do have some pretty solid ideas for one.

And I might already be writing a thing that leads to a happier ending. It's a split path thing though, not an alternate ending. It splits at the end of part 1 and goes in a drastically different direction. I don't know when it'll be done though because I only have the 1st chapter written and I have no clue how long it's gonna be because I have no clue what all even happens in it. So that's gonna be a thing maybe eventually, we'll see.

#My writing #super mario bros #Luigi's Mansion #Booigi #Mario & Luigi #Luigi & E. Gadd

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zikadraws · 4 years

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🌼Chara's Resort - Chapter 1 :'' ''I call monkey business on this hotel, partner'' or 'the Introduction' ''🌼

''*Are you 100% sure about that, partner ?''

Frisk eye rolled and with a big sigh made Chara understand that yes, they were and no, there was no need of asking that for the 387th time.

''*A-Alright then. Sorry, I shouldn't be the nervous one.''

Frisk gave their little undead partner a patient smile, and then a global look at the hotel. It was absolutely huge. Like, real huge. In the night they could barely even see the roof, and there was too many windows for them to count. It gave the young human a slight feel of anxiety, wondering if they would really be able to take care of something that big...

''*...why is it so little lightened ?''

Huh. Good question. The building was indeed barely lightened outside as for inside, and Chara completed their question with the observation that it was weird for a construction that seemed that brand new. Perhaps every customer was already asleep...?

''*At ten in the evening ? Every window ? Seriously, partner ? What do you think it is, a military camp ?''

Hmpf. Cut off the sass, Chara. There was anyway only one way of learning more, since whatever Frisk would say, their hirer didn't told them anything about the job yesterday.

''*Aaand right in the problems Chara & Frisk are bulling agaaain~'' crooned Chara ''Team-Rocket'' like, while their partner eagerly swinged open the front door of the building, ready for everyone and everything... Except for finding the check-in hall to be as darkened as the windows, and maybe even emptier than Jerry's personality -Chara !!!!

''*What ? He HAS the emptiest personality. And I'm the narrating one here, so frick off. Beyond of this, you gotta admit, this is like, really abnormal... Make me think of a horror movie scenario... y'know ? With the clueless guys who enter in a isolated recently bought house, and then- Nonono, don't close the door !! It's always once it's done that freaky stuff happens... Wha- NoI'mNotScaredButSeriouslyPleaseLetThatDoorOpen.''

Low-key laughing at their friend's nervousness, Frisk stepped deeper in the entrance, checking around for any clue of someone, in vain. The hall was inconfortably spacious... The silence didn't help, and Frisk rapidly felt their partner gripping their suit's leg, having decided to ground themselves in the hope to feel less exposed. The aspiring janitor frankly smiled at this sight. They did not know Chara still had scared child instincts.(*muttering*''*Mrrrmmrr....As if you didn't, you stupid mrmgrownup...(pfff)'')

Openly giggling this time, Frisk reached the check-in office and officializing the lack of reception, got ready to wait, gently messing the incorporeal hair of their pouty ghost friend.

Five minutes passed. Five more.

As it was getting to a quarter-hour, Chara had calmed down and Frisk was getting less and less sure about anything concerning their job. Their partner started swinging playfully around the deck, happy to feel getting closer the possibility of leaving the place, as they've been arguing about it during the whole wait.

''*That's just as what I'm killing myself in telling you, partner~ Nothing about this stuff is right ! 🎶Huge place, dark place, no one around...🎵 Nothing is right, yet here you are...🎶 Hmm hm hm hmmm... Oooh yeah~...🎵''

Hearing Chara starting to sing almost got the best out of Frisk, making them stand up all of a sudden and eye-dagger their smuggy brat of a friend, who promptly tempered.

''*Woah- hey, cool partner ! I'm just saying that apparently no one was warned you would come. That Gadd guy probably didn't bothered to get someone... (And honestly, for how he behaved yesterday, that would not surprise me...) ...Huh- wait, don't make that face !! Don't be sad, it's probably just an oversight... (...) Tell you what : let's ring the bell here, and if really nobody shows up, we'd get out of here, how about that ?''

Frisk sighed but had to admit it was the best option... Though before reaching out for the bell, they hesitated and then, to Chara's startlement, turned to them and bowing, waved in the bell's direction with a wink. After some confusing seconds, Chara understood : their partner offered them the first hit.

''*Wha-- But Frisky, I am a ghost. It won't do anything and you know it, right- oh.''

Of course they knew. But Chara could see it in Frisk's eyes. They wouldn't just get away with fifteen minutes of whining. And perhaps even wouldn't get away at all, if they didn't lowed themselves in that reminding of their incorporeal misery. Not while knowing how Frisk was.

''*... Alright then...''

Chara loomed over the bell, arm raised, eyesiding their partner's already satisfied grin. Swallowing their indignation, the little ghost sighed hard and hit that humiliating call bell with all of their frustration. ''*Here goes nothing-"

"Diiiiinnngg~🎵!!!''

...

...the echo of the ringing rolled in the entire hall. Leaving the equally stunned duo in a deafening silence.

---

''*...Waitwaitwaitwait. How the fuc-''

Despite being genuinely confused, Frisk had that reflex of reminding language manners to Chara. For who it was really the leastest of their problems.

''*Partner, I just did physically interact with a material object after one hundred ghostly years of not even being able to interact with magic. I can talk however the hell I want. What- NO I have no idea. I did not do anything special- I wasn't even fricking expecting it to ring... No I don't think there's anything special with it. I mean it's a goddamn bell ?? It's not even glowing or anything... Oh danggit---I'm so damn confused !!! Why does it have to happen now...''

''...Hum, hello, and err...How may I help you ?''

The unknown voice caught the arguing duo off guard and, turning up towards the origin in unison, opening baby owl eyes, they faced an... unexpected figure. It was a skinny man-like creature, standing behind the desk, with a blue and transparent body ; whose eyes and mouth, and general being actually, was strangely glowing ; and was dressed as a groom ; and manifestly waiting for a response.

After a couple of seconds Chara broke the silence. ''*...You, huh. 'You encounter... (Wait lemme *CHECK...) ...Stuart Gangers.''

The newcomer suddenly looked like choking on that name evocation. ''Wait wha- How- how do you know-''

''*...Said 'Steward'. Like his fonction, which is outrageously convenient...''

''Hey !''

''*...Basically the ghost equivalent of Burgerpants ; doing his very best.' ...Hooold on : 'ghost' ??? But wait, then does that mean...''-

''HEY !!!''

''*----OooohMyGodI'mSoSorryIDidn'tThoughtYouCouldPerceiveMe.''

...

Some seconds of overwhelming tension passed between the more-lost-than-ever duo and the rather mad bellhop. Finally, this last one decided it was not worth keeping up such an atmosphere if it didn't ended with anything good from those two unexpected visitors, and with a big sigh suggested them to forget about it and start over instead. So hello visitors, you can call me Steward, welcome to the Last Resort, new version, and how may I help you ?...

''*... Yeah'', croaked that strange-looking little petty ghost of a brat (having to be polite to customers didn't forbid him to think his mind) who guessed his true identity. ''*Yeah. Good idea. That's surely better. (Sorry). So, hum... Greetings mister... The names are Chara and Frisk Dreemur, and huh... Frisk here came in this place because they got hired as a janitor yesterday by some weird gu-(ahem)-Imeansomeone of the name of E. Gadd ; youuu...might have been warned...?''

Seeing the young spectrum getting shyer and shyer, to the point that their words gradually sounded less and less audible, restored Steward's sympathy ; and so that was honestly smiling that he informed them that indeed, he has been warned that the new janitor would come tonight, though the professor did not care to tell at which time. But on the other hand, he had in fact warned the entire staff hotel, including the residents, about this and that he wanted them all to meet the new employee (''for some reason -I don't really get it... they never did something like that before ??...-ahem-'') and so he had gathered them in integrity in the reception room, a bit next to the hall. May he leaded them in...?

A perplex silence fell through the ghosts and the human, before a steady-as-a-broom ghost kid finally asked : ''*...the 'professor' ? ...And... What do you imply by... The residents...?''

Steward squinted. ''...What...You mean that he did not told you ??''

As he faced the embarrassed look of the duo, it occurred to the incredulous bellhop that he had to brought himself to give them a summary on his own. How come the professor did not warn them... ??

''...god is it a funny story... So... Let's see...''

...

Ten minutes of wide explanations later, Frisk had to sum up to Steward. Did he really just said that 1) their hirer was a scientist focused on ghosts studies ; 2) the hotel itself was inhabited specifically by ghosts ; and 3) they were about to meet them all at once ??

''That's the long and the short of it, yes.''

But it was amazing ! It meant that Chara could for once meet up plenty people who could actually see them, hear them ! They could even make friends, finally !

Turning up to share their enthusiasm with the said children, Frisk brutally felt their happiness fade to concern. Noticing the human sudden worried face, Steward followed their eyes... and felt his chest tighten.

Chara was standing on their feet, abnormally steardy, eyes wide open and darting the ground, the whole spectra ran by violent shakes, their aura producing small red zaps of energy - an expression of fear iridiating from their whole being. It was a major panic attack, like Steward never could bear himself. No need to be a genius to understand that the kid wouldn't be able to interact with anyone in those conditions.

That establishment done, Steward turned to the alarmed human and suggested them to begin heading to the reception room by themselves, while he would take care of this. The young mortal hesitated but consented at the empathetic look on the bellhop's face. Giving a timid wave at their -oblivious- partner, they slowly engaged in the hallway. Once Frisk was out of view, Steward flew around the desk and crouched himself next to shuddering Chara. ''Hey kid. Are you feeling okay ?'' ''* . . . '' ''It's alright, okay ? I'm just sitting there. I swear I won't hurt you or anything else. Nobody will.'' ''*... I...I-I'm---...'' ''...There... See ? I'm just going to touch you on the shoulder... Here. Take a breath.'' Steward has cautiously began to open his arms, and Chara, still intensely shivering, instinctively moved themselves in. ''*I'm...I-'' they stuttered, as Steward very carefully closed his arms on the child's back. ''There, there... Shhh. Don't worry. You're safe. It's gonna be okay.'' Chara stared in shook, then their voice cracked down as they given back the ghost's hug, with all the force their violent shudders allowed them to use.

''*I'm sorry...''

---

Meanwhile, Frisky has already reached the reception room door.

They hesitated at the entrance. Being without their little partner felt so wrong... Having grown up with that constant -although sassy, and overly curious, and sometimes kinda annoying- presence, the young human felt unusually lonely. And worried for them. Would they really be alright...?

As Frisk was lost in their thoughts, the doors suddenly BUSTED open. Brutally brought back to reality, a startled Frisky eyecatched an obviously out of patience Professor E. Gadd, blabbering aggressively while being followed by some blue ghost.

''It's been almost an hour now since they should have arrived, what in the world is that guy doin- OH ! It's you !'' exclaimed the scientist, radically changing their tone at Frisk's recognition. ''We weren't expecting you anymore ! What took you so long ?'' As the newest janitor timidly attempted to remind Gadd that he literally did not told anything about what the program would look like, he interrupted them and grabbing them by the arm, dragged them towards the room ; ''Yeah yeah whatever. Anyway, we're so glad to finally have you here. You'll see : everyone's been waiting for you !'' Then practically pushed poor Frisky through the entrance.

Bursted up suddenly into the large place, bewildered Frisk reduced themselves to that latest rough treatment, and, blinking at the sudden relative amount of light, eyed the room... And almost let fall their backpack in amazement. Here, in this room, were standing (or more floating for some ominous reasons) dozens and dozens and dozens of ghosts, all sizes, all forms (perhaps as varied as monsters species), who were all doing (it wasn't the least astonishing thing to Frisk, knowing Chara) who were all doing normal corporeal people stuff, including eating for some !!...aaand were, hum. All staring at Frisk. The young human felt briefly their chest tighten at that last realization. But really briefly, as a ghost of tall stature, with blue sweater, cap and body (and a rather massive chin and pointy nose) approached to greet them -with the friendliest behaviour :

''Why, bonjour ! You must be the new concierge, n'est-ce pas ? Pleased to be meeting you, I'm Morty ! If you want, I can present you to everyone ! ^^''

Relieved by the reaction of the spectre, Frisk smiled widely and felt their loneliness flew away. Perhaps it would in fact not be as terrible as foreseen actually...

E. Gadd discreetly grabbed his captors.

---

In the meantime, back in the hall, Steward finally managed to get Chara to calm down... Well, sort of. If you can call calmed down a child sitting in ball-like position against the check-in desk, hidden under their hood, sobbing (gradually quieter, gotta admit). The bellhop was sitting right next to them, gently patting them, and wait for their hiccups to fade off to prudently ask them what got them to stress out that brutally.

''*...'' ''You don't have to tell me, but I think it would be better for us both to clear that up. If it's okay with you.'' ''*...I'm sorry... it's just that... (Hic) it's just that it's all happening at once... That's all.(snif)'' ''What are you talking of ?'' ''*But everything, whined the young ghost. We just came up in this creepy place and then... Then I'm able to touch things out of nowhere ? I just can't understand...'' ''...you mean it was the first time ever for you ??'' ''*Ever since I died, yup...'' ''How long-'' ''*One hundred and fifteen years.'' ''... Woah. Seriously ?'' ''*Huh-hu. ...Why ?'' ''Well actually, I did never heard of ghosts on the late...I was personally physically fully interactive hours after my death, in fact.'' ''*...'' ''Buuut I mean, it's okay. You seem to be an unusual...hum, special type of ghost anyway, so it's probably not that weird.'' ''*... what do you mean, exactly ?'' sneaked the little ghost, squinting. ''... Well... By example...''started the nervous bellhop, feeling he probably shouldn't have come up with this subject. ''I mean your appearance -and aura- is radically different from ours. Like you see, I have a tail and you seem to naturally have legs.'' ''*Oh yeah, smiled the small ghost. I did not notice it at first. It's funny.'' Encouraged by his achievement in getting a smile, Steward continued. ''Also, unlike mine, your eyes got pupils... (And your mouth is not glowing)'' ''*Yep... but, doesn't red pupils look a little weird though ?'' wondered the kid, suddenly sad. Getting that it was a sensitive topic, Steward eluded by assuring them it gave them an interesting look, and quickly switched to another subject (''And are those actually ears under your hood ?? Man, kid, you don't get your luck !!'' ''*Heee~ ! Quit it, it tickles !!''), effectively getting them to laugh, finally.

So after having managed to get Chara finally better, the blue ghost dared, after a short pause, to ask them if they wanted to head to the reception room with him, as he had to go there anyway. The little ghost shrinked on themselves. Then quietly confessed to Steward that in one hundred and a bit, they've never been able to interact with anyone but Frisk (''*and some rare exceptions... -ahem-''). So the perspective of having to meet plenty of new people able to perceive them in one shot, just like that, was a terrifying one. They just could't do it.

''*I'm really sorry...'' apologized the kid, rubbing their eye.

''... it's okay. I feel for you.''

''*I'm already happy to have met you today. I'd met the others, but like... Eventually'', stated the kid with a frank smile.

Steward felt his chest warm up at this one... ''Awww, thank you kid. That's fine, take all the time you need. We're all staying here anyway. And by the way, if you really have trouble with developing your ghost abilities we could teach you how it's done'', he added with a friendly wink ;).

Chara's eyes (and hair) bloomed with stars (and flowers (??)) at this unexpected offer ; but then, got melancholic...

''*...Do you really have to go ?''

''...yes, kid. Or else they'll be looking for me, sorry.''

The look on the child's face pitied the bellhop as he was getting up. Then an idea came to his mind, and with a wide smile he suggested Chara an alternative at being alone. Would they mind to try ?

''*...huh... Yeah, I guess ?''

So turning up, Steward clapped his hands, and a quartet of blue, yellow, red and purple glowing forms appeared from the walls. The bellhop informed the stunned kid that those were Goob, Slinker, Hammer and Sneaker. And as they gently approached the little ghost, and as the said 'Goob' managed its way through the very arms of that curious-looking new kid, Chara nearly teared up in awe.

''*Awww~ Oh my god they're so CUTE- thank you Mister !!!''

Steward nodded and, after making sure that the kid was in good escort, -gloriously- initiated his way to the reception room.

Plenty satisfied with himself for once.

---

Within the said reception room, Frisk was living their glorious hours. The guy named Morty knew indeed everyone and nobody got forgotten. The residents were globally really satisfied with the new janitor ; although being a little confused about if it was a boy or a girl, they all recognized their obvious ability to adapt to any given situation, their friendliness and, which wasn't the leastest of qualities for some, their quietness. In fact, the ghosts were really wondering how that human managed to be understood by everyone ? They did not see him/her open their mouth to actually talk even once !! But ah, in the end it didn't really matter. They were optimistic about...-well, in doubt- them, anyway. The atmosphere was sincerely light (ironically---hum.).

But as the presentations went along, the professor E. Gadd, who was keeping himself apart from the assembly, in a corner where he had a wide sight of the entire room, surrounded with complex instruments, seemed himself, less and less satisfied. The goobs who were providing the service were gossiping between themselves about how much he looked like he was searching for something and couldn't find it.

To the point where the friendly festivities got brutally interrupted when he jumped out of his seat and bulled towards the ghosts, arguing that something was not right.

''Wha- What's wrong, Professor ??'' asked the gal called Chambrea, confused. ''Everyone is having a good time. What's the matter ?''

''If something is wrong ? Yes something is definitely wrong. Don't you fellows ghosts sense like, I don't know... There's something off in that room ?''

''... ... ...''

''... Steward's... missing ?'' risked someone, bewildered.

''I don-''

''Not anymore~ !🎵'' whistled the interested, who just made his entry through the door-

''I DON'T FRICKING CARE ABOUT STEWARD !!'' shouted the professor, way more violently than he intended. Ignoring the shook he just caused in the gasping audience (and without even a look for poor Steward), he went on : ''What I mean is... Did really none of you guys perceive some strange presence, or aura, around 'Frick' here ?''

''...No, professor. ''Answered a tall purple ghost in costume in the coldest of tones. ''Why ,professor ?''

''Really ?'' enchained the said professor, totally oblivious to the inner menace. ''None of you did notice anything unusual with 'Frick' ? Nothing else than him (or her...?) ?? Utterly, positively, absolutely sure ???''

''Yes, professor.'' completed a rich-looking yellow ghost lady, in a similar tone. ''None of us. Why that question, professor ? Was there something you did not tell us, professor ?''

''...Bad timing.''

The scientist brutally turned away, gathered some of his instruments, and busted out of the room -nearly jostling away poor Steward, who glared at him suspiciously- while repeating over and over : ''Bad timing. Bad timing. Bad timing.''

Bad timing.

-----

🌼~End of Chapter 1~🌼

-----

Thank you very much for having read it all until the end. I hope my style did not bore you. And that you liked the plot.🥰

Love you all.

(Phew, it was really exhausting... Hope it was worth it at least^^''')

#undertale #crossover lm3 #lm3 #chara #ghost chara #adult frisk #Chara's Resort #fanfic

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