Timeline •----: [Chapter 5]

Sans groaning in bed as he had a dreamlike state interacting in a lost room with a twitching W.D. Gaster finally speaking a bit of the main language of the world (english) yet under the text is wind dings font "Hmm….You said you need ANSWERS why out of all timelines I am indirectly interacting with people connected to me?1"

Sans awakens with a start, beads of sweat on his forehead. He rubs his sockets, pondering the cryptic encounter with Gaster in a lost room. The memory lingers, and Sans contemplates the implications of these interactions, unsure of the answers he seeks.

What follows is a chapter filled with intrigue, exploring the delicate balance between timelines and the enigmatic influence of Gaster on the unfolding events.

Than he exhales . Sleeping again until the dream continues eerily as Gaster approach him "Answer me sans the skeleton..you had a language of comic sans font and also your other LANGUAGE to speak to share with me like your brother.." as Sans says indifferently "Just wanna know the reason since it's odd a timeline didn't crash with a MONSTER possessing such a power of determination.." 

Gaster's response echoes in the dreamlike space, "The fabric of timelines is delicate, and your existence, intertwined with the essence of the AU, carries an anomaly. Your unique communication transcends mere fonts; it's a conduit connecting possibilities. Your choices may shape or disrupt the delicate balance. Be vigilant, Sans, for the threads of destiny are fragile, and your influence is profound."

The dream wavers, leaving Sans with more questions than answers, yet a lingering sense of responsibility for the timelines and the mysterious presence of Gaster.

Gaster then added "Rather it's possible our WORLD…Universe Isn't alone or original at all…"

Sans contemplates Gaster's words, feeling the weight of the revelation. The idea that their universe might not be the sole or original one sparks curiosity and concern within him. As the dream continues, Gaster's cryptic hints leave Sans with a sense of foreboding, wondering about the intricate web of existence beyond their own AU.

Sans then ask "what makes you think this is an AU? Not an original?"

Gaster, still in the dreamlike state, responds with a cryptic smile, "Sans, my dear friend, consider the anomalies, the deviations. The very essence of our existence carries traces of influences from realms beyond our comprehension. The familiar yet distorted echoes of timelines reveal the intricacies of a multiverse in motion."

Gaster gestured with his floating hands "Recall my theory? Eitherway continue , but remember…take heed in risk and trust that 'human' and that 'Prince'….The idea that this universe lives along despite the anomaly of his revival proves…quite fascinating."2

Sans, with a raised brow, mutters in a low tone, "So you're saying this is some grand experiment? A concoction of timelines and possibilities?"

Gaster chuckles softly, "In a way, dear Sans. But remember, experiments can have unexpected outcomes, and the variables, well, they tend to surprise even the most observant scientists."

Sans chuckles and winks with a shrug "Why am I having such a big involvement? Besides Alphys and soon-to-be my brother and certain people CONNECTED to ya?"

Gaster replies cryptically, "You've always been an anomaly, Sans. Maybe it's your knack for shortcuts, or perhaps there's more to your lazy demeanor than meets the eye. Either way, you're an integral part of this narrative, whether you like it or not."

Sans smirks, "Guess I'm just the 'comic relief,' huh?"

Gaster's expression remains enigmatic, "More than you might think, my friend."

Then before Sans wakes up. Gaster touch his left eye with the hand and whispered "Your eye been healed from that 'accident' witness the human's sacrifice for the Prince' revival might be more than it seems.."

As Sans wakes up, he feels a strange sensation in his left eye, realizing that it's no longer affected by the accident. The cryptic words from Gaster linger in his mind, leaving him with a sense of curiosity about the deeper mysteries surrounding the events in this AU.

Then he twitch a bit , up until he notice in his hand mirror with shock to mutter "Woah…my eye.." the flickering glowing left eye of his left eye socket has not the usual blue to yelllw flicker it has a neon purple as well. Along with traces of star mark patch forming around his right eye that is watercolor purple.

The neon purple glow and the emergence of a star mark patch around his right eye leaving him both intrigued and puzzled. The subtle changes raise questions about the nature of his connection to the unfolding events and the mysterious threads tying him to the anomalies in this AU.

He had a headache , before he heard a knock from his bedroom door "Oh who is it?"

The voice from the other side of the door belongs to Papyrus, who says excitedly, "Sans! Breakfast is ready! I made your favorite, spaghetti tacos!"

He giggle as he ask "alright paps Coming..Is the prince also awake?"

Papyrus responds, "Yep! Asriel is already at the table. He seems excited about today's plans."

He says "Sure , be right there bro. Lemme take a moment—"

Sans pauses as he notices his glowing eye in the mirror, contemplating the mysterious changes.  Then it flickers back to the usual normal eye like the right eye one. But his Star mark patched on his right eye remained. As he casually chuckles and wore the hoodie of his jacket to hide with the shade of such a change as he whispers "Probably can have a good excuse to chat with Alphys."

Sans chuckles to himself, ready to face the day with a newfound curiosity about the changes in his eye. Meanwhile , Asriel was eating and asking Papyrus "Hmm…not eating and waiting for your brother Papyrus? Is Sans okay?" 

Papyrus grins, "Don't worry, my brother Sans is just taking his time. He's probably enjoying a lazy morning routine."

He chuckles "what? That exist? How does that make sense?"

Papyrus laughs, "Well, for Sans, a lazy morning routine involves taking it slow, maybe a few extra naps, and, of course, enjoying a good cup of ketchup."

They both giggle again , then Sans join them in a blink of an eye saying "Sup.." with a happy tone and eating his meal. As Papyrus said "You took a shortcut so..ahem did my cooking of the tacos got better?"

Sans winks, "Purr-fect as always, bro. Now, what's the plan for today?"

They chuckles as Papyrus banter back "Quite the spontaneous feat , hardly the easiest that I have done ahem—Prince Asriel's plan is wanting YOU to accompany him back to Ms and Mr Dremurr's household…then , I the great Papyrus shall have safeguard training with Undyne!!!"

Sans raises a brow, "Training with Undyne, huh? Well, count me in for the trip to the Dreemurrs'. Let's roll, bro." Asriel spoke "wait a moment Sans , we shall finished our breakfast first!!!" 

Sans grins, "Sure thing, kiddo. No rush, plenty of time for a lazy skeleton like me."

They giggle before they got worried in unison "then why lift your hoodie all of a sudden? A skeleton doesn't need a shade.."

Sans chuckles, "Just experimenting with a new style, you know, gotta keep things interesting."

Then he winks at Asriel (that the kid may play along to understand subtly) "Almost HYPER-Active to wake up about..no biggie so..your tacos Paps it taste much better than last time.."

Papyrus beams, "Nyehehehe! Thank you, Sans! Maybe I should consider opening a taco stand in addition to my spaghetti empire."

They chuckle , as they keep eating before finishing up for 3 minutes. They part ways , as Sans spoke "hey Pap if Undyne overwhelmed you..call me by our cell okay?"

Papyrus gives a thumbs up, "Of course, Sans! I'll manage the training session and contact you if needed."

Asriel hugs Papyrus and Sans , with fluffy tail wag "Thanks you both for letting me have a sleepover…"  Sans ruffles Asriel's hair, "No problem, kiddo. Enjoy your time with Papyrus. We'll be around if you need anything. And good luck on heading back to your family."

He giggles , as Papyrus wave as well saying "Farewell my brother and friends , see you MUCH LATERERR Nyehehehehhe" as he left , Sans and Asriel take a walk as Asriel whisper "Can you share me why your hiding your face for today Sans?"

Sans chuckles, "Just a little change, nothing to worry about. You know how it is, always surprising folks. But hey, let's enjoy the walk, okay?"

Asriel sighs , while internally the souls are feeling worried. As Frisk and Chara uttered "Maybe that accidental blast from a week ago of remnants of soul power affected him? Look at his Soul Stats it's LV.1"

Sans glances at them, "Don't worry, kiddos. Just a minor hiccup. Nothing to fret about. Besides, I've been through worse, haven't I?"

Asriel gulps and pause on the streets "You can HEAR my soul sans?"

Sans winks, "Kid, with my senses, I can pick up a lot more than you think. Don't worry, it's a handy skill I got."

They both chuckle. As Sans continue accompanying Asriel he spoke "Say kid , since before being THIS FORM…You were Flowey…You had the power of DETERMINATION in a bit right?"

Asriel nods, "Yeah, I remember. It's a weird feeling. Why do you ask?"

He blinks and whispers "I think that accidental HYPERDEATH soul power release blast that hit my left eye…affected my soul a bit as the souls inside ya notice…it also earlier this morning mark a MILD change physically.."

Asriel looks concerned, "Change? What kind of change, Sans?"

He put down his hoodie to exhale with a wink and Asriel gasp to notice a star shape mark patched onto sans right eye , or around it atleast

Asriel stares at the star-shaped mark with surprise, "Sans, what happened to your eye? Is it permanent?"

Sans shrugs as he return his hood on "Dunno…just got it this morning and curious since we'll..TECHNICALLY before you release a lot of souls..your GODLIKE form has star patterns right? I thought you might be able to know why.."

Asriel ponders, "It's intriguing, Sans. Maybe the residual effects of your exposure to that soul power are manifesting in this unique way. If anything, it adds a certain flair."

Chara chuckles internally of the soul (within many SOULs inside Asriel) "Haha , perfect mark for a smiling lazybones.."

Sans grins, "Guess my eye couldn't resist adding a bit more style. Anyway, let's head back to your place, kiddo. Your folks are probably wondering where you are."

He nods , as his multicolor soul pulsate and stays silent. He grip his chest "Yeah…But sorry for accidentally hitting you? Me and Frisk were unaware someone return to check on them…especially you of all People.."

Sans waves it off, "No biggie, kid. Accidents happen. Besides, I'm not one to hold a grudge. Let's just get back, and you can spend time with your family. And maybe later, I'll bug Alphys about this eye situation."

Asriel nods as they finally walk and knock at the dremurr household. Asgore with his Flower shirt and nice pants (fit build too) with a haught laugh "Hoho MY SON!!! You have come home!!!! Thanks Sans…for letting my and Toriel's child [Asriel] stay at you and your brother's place.."

Sans grins, "No problem, big guy. Just making sure the prince here has a good time. I'll be around if you need anything." He then casually leans against the doorway, watching the family reunion unfold.

Before he left , Sans blushed when Toriel pop up to nudge him with a wink "Going already old friend?"

He scratches his skull, "Yeah, got some things to check on. You know me, always keeping an eye socket on things. Take care, Tori." With a final wave, Sans takes his leave.

They wave , Asriel says with hinted words he understood "Hopefully THIS TIME is a happy ending!!!"

As Sans walks away, he mutters to himself, "Yeah, let's hope for the best ending this time..."

Next , Alphys was busy typing and already placing the empty human body of Frisk in a large Canister and Chara's dusty , skeletal human body (corpse) on the other Canister with a sneeze "Ooh , almost there.."

As Alphys continues her work, Sans strolls into the lab, glancing at the canisters. "Hey, Doc. Making progress on the revival project?"

She jump "Ohh my gah—" almost sways her tail to hit one of the wires and approach Sans. As she uttered fixing her glasses and fiddling her lizard claws "Ahh…Affirmative in progress? Please warn me of your 'shortcuts' you do…I am still not used to it.."

Sans chuckles, "Heh, sorry 'bout that. Anyway, about that revival thing, any breakthroughs?"

She gestured "Yes , more like prepping the machines and equipment we both blueprint on as basis."

Sans nods, "Sounds like you got it under control. If you need any help, you know where to find me."

Then , he froze when she said "Stop , there must be a reason you came to me..especially when your unusually softer in tone and I-I-I know you well enough that your habits stick…So why is the hood up?"

Sans hesitates, then sighs, "Alright, Alph, you caught me. Something happened this morning. Woke up with a weird mark around my eye. Not sure what it is, but it's got me feeling a bit... off."  As he slowly take the hoodie off "So , Uhh any ideas?"

Alphys inspects the mark, adjusting her glasses. "Hmm, unusual. Let me check with some scans and data analysis. It could be linked to the residual effects of the Hyperdeath blast from last week."

He blinks "woah catch on quick wait. So you already realized Asriel the prince can have a Hyper-whatever called formed when using a lot of souls?"

Alphys nods, tapping on her computer. "Yes, yes! It aligns with my theories and observations. The release of a significant number of souls can trigger extraordinary transformations, especially for someone like Asriel, with a powerful monster soul. It's fascinating!"

He blinks and shrugs with a chuckle "Still…It also kinda correlated with my odd growing lv right? Or stats? It shift a bit too..and my weird dream kinda amplified my magic?" (Referring his glowing eye mode) as Alphys ask "Uhh what dream did you had recently?"

Sans scratches his skull. "Just a weird one with Gaster talking about timelines and universes. Mentioned something about us not being alone or original. Nothing I can wrap my head around."

Alphys' eyes widen, and she stammers, "W-What?! Gaster? Timelines and universes? Sans, that's... that's serious stuff! We need to discuss this further, maybe get some more information or clarification from Gaster."

Sana blinks "wait so you can't indirectly get in contact with the guy unlike me and papyrus can speak his language..you kinda can tie back to him since you safekeep his lost Research back underground like DT extractor…"

Alphys nods, "Well, yeah, but that doesn't mean I have direct communication. It's more like I study the remnants he left behind and try to make sense of it. If we're delving into matters of timelines and universes, it's crucial to handle it with caution. We should involve Papyrus and maybe even Frisk and Chara. This involves their abilities and experiences too."

Sans shrugs , glancing at the canisters "while I wait for my NEW ANALYSIS results of my small situation….I think the body of the first fallen might be challenging to revive compare to Frisk'…"

Alphys nods, adjusting her glasses, "You're right. Frisk's body is still relatively fresh, and with the injection of determination, there's a good chance for revival. However, the first fallen, the one named Chara, has been gone for a long time. Reviving them might be a more intricate process, and it comes with its own set of risks. We need to proceed cautiously."

He then notice she keeps swaying her tail and prepare the computer and other equipment where he can sit down , as he ask "So gonna scan my Soul like Last time Alph? Or something new?"

Alphys nods, "Yes, Sans. We'll start with a soul analysis. I'll check for any anomalies or changes in your LV and other parameters. After that, we can discuss any further steps or precautions needed."

Nods , as he whistles his own 'sans theme'3 (not megalovania) , just him waiting how the results will go and observing her reaction.

Alphys focuses on the analysis, typing rapidly on her keyboard. After a moment, she glances at the screen, her eyes widening slightly. "Sans, this is... unexpected. Your LV has increased, and there's a unique energy signature. It's not hostile, but it's definitely unusual. I need to run more tests to understand the nature of this change."

He blinks "does this explain my eye socket magic change and THIS physical star mark?"

Alphys adjusts her glasses and nods. "Yes, it seems connected. The energy signature is consistent with your eye's unusual properties. As for the mark, it could be a manifestation of the increased magical energy. Sans, this is fascinating, but I'd like to delve deeper into the analysis. Are you experiencing any other changes or anomalies?"

He grins with a nod "Well, I feel more energized than usual and it seems It's not just deja vu…It's like I got glimpses of the ACTUAL resets personally.."

Alphys taps her claws together in thought. "Glimpses of the resets? That's intriguing. It could be a side effect of the increased magical activity. I'll make a note of it for further investigation. Meanwhile, let's continue the analysis." She starts working on the computer, focusing on Sans's magical and soul-related data.

Sans giggle as he whistles to wait "Well atleast it's harmless of an impact , but hmm…Your aware right now your FISHY Lover is having a time with my bro for today right?"

Alphys blushes a bit and stammers, "Oh, uh, y-yes. they're just training. It's... it's nothing much. Just routine safeguard exercises. You know how Undyne is about her training routines." She tries to hide her embarrassment behind her glasses.

He chuckles "It's fine…" as she ask while updating her other tools "Uhh Sans how was the Prince and the souls inside him faring?"

Sans leans back, casually saying, "Oh, they're doing okay. Asriel's adjusting, and the souls seem to be cooperating. Frisk and Chara have been keeping an eye on things. I'm sure they'll manage. You've got enough on your plate with these experiments, Doc."

She groans "Just call me Alph…we're friends here and it's odd hearing you address me as doc.."

Sans smirks, "Alright, Alph. If that's what you prefer. So, anything interesting happening with your experiments lately? New gadgets or discoveries?"

She adjusts her glasses, "Well, besides the usual advancements in monster-human interaction technology, I've been working on a project related to magic resonance frequencies. It could potentially enhance communication between different magical entities. But, Sans, back to you. The scan results show some intriguing fluctuations in your magical signature. It's definitely connected to that incident with Asriel. Still, I need more data to draw conclusive findings. Care to help with some more tests?"

Sans shrug "Sure , but how are we gonna run the other tests?"

Alphys grins, "I've got a few ideas. We can start with analyzing your magical aura under different conditions. Maybe even test how your magic interacts with various elements. It's all experimental, of course, but with your cooperation, we might unravel more about these newfound changes."

He then glances at the Canisters "Sure , but I just want a bit of a glimpse of my new experience not a full tiring essay…anyways , shall I help first with your REVIVAL project instead! Since I did deliver the message the Prince requested from the human before their sacrifice.."

Alphys nods excitedly, "Absolutely! Your assistance with the revival process would be invaluable. Let's work on that first, and then we can dive into the intriguing mysteries surrounding your magical changes. I've prepared the necessary equipment, so let's get started." Nods as he took of the equipment attached to him and join in to help

As Sans work together with Alphys on the revival process, the machinery hums to life. The atmosphere in the lab becomes a mix of anticipation and curiosity. Alphys directs the skeleton through the procedure, utilizing his expertise in handling souls and magic. The process is intricate, but with his combined efforts, the aim is to successfully revive the fallen human.

As the experiment progresses, Alphys occasionally glances at the results of the tests on Sans' magical changes. The revived human's soul starts to glow, and you both observe the monitors closely. The outcome of this revival is crucial, and the air is filled with a sense of hope and determination.

Then failed a bit , as the results said "Lack of Determination…" as Sans muttered "maybe we either need to inject more or…need the help with the Prince' magic and soul power…"

Sans ponders the situation, contemplating the necessary adjustments to the process. Alphys joins in the brainstorming, discussing potential methods to enhance the determination aspect in the revived human. The challenge at hand requires a careful balance of magic and soul power, and both of you collaborate to refine the revival process.

Meanwhile , Undyne was busy training Paps together in this small local gym "So Papyrus!!! How was the Prince with you and your brother?"

Undyne enthusiastically inquires about the recent activities involving Asriel, Sans, and Papyrus. Papyrus, catching his breath after an intense training session, grins widely.

"Papyrus reports with pride, 'Nyeheheh! The Prince and my brother are doing well! Sans has even shown some unusual motivation lately.'"

Undyne raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Motivation? From Sans? That's a rare sight. What's going on?"

Papyrus chuckles, "It seems the Prince's visit has brought out a different side of my brother. Sans has been more active and involved lately. Maybe the human souls inside the Prince have a positive influence!"

Undyne smirks, "Well, that's a change I never expected. Keep an eye on him, Papyrus!"

Papyrus salutes, "Don't worry, Undyne! The Great Papyrus is always vigilant!"

Then , Papyrus ask innocently with every work out "So Undyne tell me….How is Dr.Alphys doing life on the surface? She is your girlfriend now right?"

Undyne grins, proud of Papyrus for bringing up the topic. "Oh, you bet! Alphys is doing great on the surface, and yeah, we're still going strong. Living together is awesome!"

Papyrus nods with enthusiasm, "Nyeheheh! I knew it! You two are like the perfect match! You both deserve to be happy!"

Undyne ruffles Papyrus's skull, "Thanks, Papyrus. Your support means a lot. Now, let's get back to training! Gotta stay in shape!"

Papyrus nods, determined, "Yes, let's continue our rigorous exercise regimen! The Great Papyrus is ready for anything!"

Then , Asriel is happily spending time with his parents by the house as they ask "So how was the sleepover my child?"

Asriel smiles, his fluffy tail wagging with excitement. "It was amazing! Sans and Papyrus are really cool, and we even had a movie night. Also, they make delicious homemade burgers and fries!"

Asgore chuckles, "That sounds like a fantastic time. We're glad you enjoyed it, my child."

Toriel adds with a warm smile, "And how is Sans doing? It's been a while since we caught up with him."

Asriel hesitates, glancing at his parents. "Sans seems a bit different today, like something changed. He didn't explain much, though."

Asgore exchanges a glance with Toriel, concern in their eyes. "We should check on him and see if everything's alright. Family looks out for each other."

Toriel nods, "Indeed. Let's go visit Sans and make sure he's doing well."

Asriel then make a excuse , gripping his chest (influence of all the souls inside him) as his eyes shimmers multicolored "No , please…he said it's not big deal and well…maybe I can check on him later…ahem , so how are you two doing while I sleepover?"

Asgore smiles warmly, "We've been well, my child. Your mother and I are enjoying our time on the surface, and we're grateful to have you with us. It's a new beginning for our family."

Toriel adds, "The days have been peaceful, and we've been exploring the wonders of the surface world together. It truly feels like a home."

Asriel grins, happy to see his parents content. "That's great to hear! I'm glad we're all together. Now, maybe I should go check on Sans and see how he's doing."

Asgore nods, "Of course, my child. We'll be here if you need anything. Take care."

Toriel spoke "And tell us if he is truly well for us as his friends as well!!!"

Asriel nods, "I will, Mom. I'll make sure to check on him and let you both know. See you later!" He heads off to visit Sans, leaving Asgore and Toriel with warm smiles, grateful for the unity they've found on the surface.