Quantum Fox

Believing that he could use time travel in order to save his aunt, Tails gets caught in an accident and ends up in a body similar to his but a dimension not his own. Now he is set on a quest to right wrongs in each world. His only companion on his journey is Nicole, a hologram only he can see and hear. Now he leaps from body to body, hoping that his next leap will be the leap home.

Notes:

A/N: So I made a new thing. I'm going to my roots as a Sonic fan and writing a multi-chapter story starring Tails. It's also partially based on the show Quantum Leap but instead of time travel, it's alternate universes.
The Tails here is the Pre-Genesis Wave Archie version, but the SGW didn't happen.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

All-nighters are never recommended when you're young. However, telling that to a two-tailed fox genius is difficult, especially when he is focused on saving his honorary aunt from roboticization.

Miles Prower, also known as Tails, is currently working on a small square device late into the night. The place: Freedom HQ, where Mecha Sally could be kept safe while he figures out a way to save her. As he does this, the mechanical chipmunk/squirrel hybrid princess is locked in a room behind him.

A door opening, followed by a gust of wind and a small boom signaled the arrival of something else. Sighing, the blue figure ran a hand along with the door where she lay and looked in the window. Shaking his head, he turned to look at the tired little fox sitting at the table, "You should sleep. You know she would rant at you for it. Me? The night is where all of the fun stuff happens."

"I'm fine." Tails muttered, "I need to make sure I get this right... As long as I don't go over the 4-day threshold, my body should be able to handle the lack of sleep. Thank you for your concern."

Sonic frowned and then turned his head to look at a lynx nearby, "And you aren't going to betray him and tell me how long, are ya?"

Nicole shook her head," I'm afraid he bribed me... "

"With what? Jewels, priceless bits? Random song files of Mina singing covers of your favorite bands?" Sonic asked, looking at her and noticing her dejected look. "Or did he threaten you with listening to Antoine's love song collection?"

Nicole's eyes widened, "He has the CD ready to play if I say something to you."

"Wha-You-" Sonic looked over his shoulder at Tails, "I trained you too well." he then turned to walk out, "I'm going to keep my eye on you. If I come back in two hours and you are still awake? Your two-tailed butt is mine. And if not me, then I'll bring in someone very dark and scary. Need I remind you, you have a pretty big family in this town." with that, he closed the door.

Tails didn't turn around," Nicole, increase security around the HQ. Provide a lot of protection against hedgehogs, echidnas, and bunnies."

Nicole walked towards Tails, "I think he's right. You've been up far too long." She placed a hand on his shoulder, "You need rest."

"This time-travel device needs to be finished now." Tails muttered, "I need to make sure it can take me back to when Uncle Chuck first built the roboticizer. If I can reverse-engineer-" The device began to spark, "Uh oh." He held up his screwdriver as the device exploded in his face, "Gah!"

Tails leaned his head up and spat out some sand, "Ow..."

A voice was heard as a brown hand lowered down to help him up, "Hey you ok Tails? I didn't think Knuckles hit that hard."

"Hey, he said spike," Knuckles said, shaking his head, "I thought he was ready."

Tails looked up, "I'm fine..." He dusted himself off, and then looked around, "Wait..." When did I get to the beach? he thought, Why is Knuckles here... and who's this badger!?

Knuckles looked at him, "Hey, uh Tails? You ok? You look a little bit like I do when you start speaking in words I don't understand. Or anything smarter than I am."

"Maybe he's just confused," the badger in question said, "Or...lost his memory!" She gasped

"He has? Quick! What is the secret ingredient of Amy's triple chocolate strawberry cake!?" Knuckles asked.

Tails raised an eyebrow. Knuckles is not normally this stupid... nor is he this buff... he felt the top of his head, noticing goggles. He then thought about the badger's assumption, "Uh, I don't remember. I just know small things, like you're Knuckles." he said. It'll have to do until he can figure a way out of this situation.

"Wait, so you can remember Knuckles, but you can't remember me, Sticks?" asked Sticks as she sat down for a minute, "Hmmm, realistically, that is what would happen if a person gets amnesia. But this isn't real life, just fantasy. I wonder," she then reached into her bag and pulled out a book labeled 'Possible conspiracy theories for dummies and Knuckles' "And I can't seem to see anything but words on a screen now."

A blast of wind and kicking up sand signaled the coming of a blue speedster, "Ok, Knux? We really, REALLY need to talk about where you hit these things. Besides beaning the little guy, I think you sent this thing to another island." he joked, spinning the ball on the one hand.

"Uh, hi Sonic!" Tails said, "I have realistic amnesia right now, so my brain's a little messed up. I should be fine after a while though." He noted Sonic's blue arms, scarf, and random tape on his shoes. He came to two conclusions: He had somehow swapped bodies with this universe's Tails, and that this badger, Sticks, was probably a few fries short of a happy meal.

Cocicentdally, Sticks was eating some fries and grumbling to herself, "Stupid cashier at Meh Burger, cheating me out of a few fries! But at least I got the secret Sonic toy from there!"

Tails snickered a little," I remember you, Amy, Knuckles, Eggman, and my own name, but that's about it." He kept the Freedom Fighters out of the equation just in case. I hate to trick them like this, but I need time to plan, and I don't know how they'll react to my presence.

"..." Sticks began to think, "Doesn't know my name, only knows specific names but not mine." she then gasped "POD PERSON! Be right back!" and then she ran away into the horizon.

Amy walked in, looking behind her, "Well, while Sticks is... being Sticks, why don't we show Tails around town for a while? That might jog his memory."

"Good idea, maybe he might remember something," Sonic said, smiling and waving to Tails, "Come on. And no, Knuckles."

Knuckles held up a stone and then threw it away, whistling as he followed the trio.

Tails looked behind him Thank you, Sonic. The last thing I need is another headache.

"... and there Meh Burger where we eat a lot, and there's the theater," Amy looked at Tails, "Any of this ringing a bell?"

Tails shook his head," Sorry..." Mainly because I've never been here before. This was a bad idea...

"Tails!" A female voice said.

Tails turned and saw a beautiful yellow fox in a red dress running up to him. She then wrapped her arms around him and gave him a big kiss that caused his tails to jut out in surprise.

"And that would be your girlfriend," Knuckles said nonchalantly, "Who's hobbies are sucking up your ribs."

Amy immediately walked to her, "Uh, Zooey, he doesn't remember you right now."

Zooey removed herself from Tails' face, "What!? He has amnesia!?" she looked at Tails' stunning look and caressed his face, "You poor thing... I have the solution, I'll be right back!" She turned on her heel and sped off.

Tails stood there, stunned for a bit I have a girlfriend here? And what are the odds that she's a fox!? He remained stunned there for a good long minute.

Amy sighed before pulling out a mint and tossing it into the air for Tails to immediately grab and eat,"Well, he still loves mints at least."

Tails sucked on the mint when he heard giggling from behind him. He turned and noticed Nicole standing there, "My, that was just adorable."

Tails was about to say something before Nicole shushed him, "I've had my suspicions, but now I know: Only you can hear and see me, Tails." She walked over to the group and made faces at them, "See?"

Sonic looked at Tails strangely, "Tails, are you ok? You are looking off into space."

"Maybe he saw a butterfly," Knuckles said, waving at Tails.

Nicole's hand followed Knuckles'.

Tails shook his head, "Sorry, just thinking about that girl."

"Yeah, I know the feeling." Sonic laughed, "Cute girl walks by, kisses you, and you can't forget it."

I bet you do, Chick Magnet. Tails thought.

At that moment the sound of several robots moving through the town came, "Hey, you know what time it is!? Terrible Tuesday!" said Eggman's voice.

"Wait, really? Could've sworn it was Monday," Sonic quipped and looked at his calendar. "Are you sure you didn't stay up too late?"

Eggman floated down in his Eggmobile, "Clearly you've overslept, Sonic!" He held up his own calendar and showed a red circle around Monday,"..." He looked back at it and shrugged, "Well, since I'm here, might as well sic my Buzzbombers after you!" He snapped his fingers sending several buzzbombers at them.

Amy sighed as she pulled out her hammer. She turned to Tails, "You goo-" Tails had already flown off after them, "Nevermind."

Tails grabbed one of the robots and kicked one into another You know, this is good to let out some steam!

Sonic made his way to spin dash them and kick the bots but was stopped when he saw Tails go at it. He smirked at his little buddy being cool and sped up, jumping and kicking, "Don't take them all!"

Tails smiled at him, "I'll try not to!" He flipped over one, using his tails to slice through another as he did so. He landed.

A scream was heard. He turned to see a walrus running away

(Rotor lay on the ground, looking at him after the pillar slammed into his back with a loud crack," You okay, Tails?"

Dr. Quack said he'd never be a Freedom Fighter again.)

He held his head, "Wha..."

Knuckles punched through a robot's head, then grabbed a buzzbomber and threw it back, before looking back at Tails, "You ok man?"

Tails looked and saw a coyote running with a rabbit

(Antoine fell from the sky, landing on the ground, motionless.

"Save 'im, please!" Bunnie screamed at Sonic as she held her husband. Tails could tell at that moment, that she wanted her cybernetics back.

Dr. Quack wasn't sure when he would wake up. Bunnie left the city soon after.)

Tails began breathing heavily.

Amy smashed one with her hammer," Tails?"

Sonic leaped up and kicked another bot, before landing on the eggrobo, "So, Eggman, how many miles to the gallon does this even get?"

Tails looked to see Sonic talking to Eggman.

("Mighty!" Ray reached out for his brother, only to be teleported away, with Mighty not far behind. Tails watched in horror as each one of his friends was sent away, he was too powerless to do anything.

Knothole, his home, had burned to the ground. Sonic was beaten half to death by Robotnik. Nothing was the same anymore.)

Eggman leaned onto his dashboard, "Oh, it used to be 75mpg, but I've been-"

"Dr. Robotnik!"

"What-" Eggman was punched in the face by an incoming Tails fist. Tails landed on his stomach and grabbed his mustache, "Hey, watch the-OW!" He was punched again.

"This is for Knothole." Punch, "This is for my parents!" He punched him again, "This for Sally, Antoine, and anyone else you've hurt, you monster!" He screamed as he kept on punching Eggman.

"Whoa whoa Tails, stop!" Sonic said, grabbing the little fox's hand, "I know that Eggman's evil, but you are going to kill him at this rate!"

The other robots stopped and gave concerned beeps at this situation. In fact, the once fleeing crowd were all watching this, some with popcorn.

"Plus I think he's passed out," Knuckles remarked as he walked up to them, before holding up a hand to Eggman's face. "Ok, how many fingers can you count?"

Eggman moaned as he rolled his head, "No, Mombot, I don't wanna take over the world today..."

Tails slowly turned to Sonic, shuddering, "Sonic... he took them away from us... we need to save them... he needs to be stopped." He began to sob, "Why? Why does he have to be like this?"

Sonic held his little friend close and patted his back, pulling him away for a moment to let the others handle the beaten Eggman. Knuckles lifted the scientist a little, "Hey, look, Tails is a little lost right now. So if ya wanna try to be evil tomorrow, we'll be able to fix this."

Eggman nodded, "Okay..." He moaned before flying away, "Beaten by the sidekick, the MSO(1) will never let me hear the end of it..."

"Tails, are you-? "Sonic asked when they were away from the retreating Eggman.

Tails panted a few times before slowly falling over in Sonic's arms, passed out.

Sonic picked up the little fox in his arms and looked around, "I'll take him home and put him into bed." narrowing his eyes he added, "Don't look too much into that."

"Look into what?" Knuckles asked, confused as usual.

Amy whistled as she held a book behind her back.

Sonic shook his head and ran off to Tails' hut.

Tails moaned as he got up from the bed, "Wha... what happened?"

Nicole, who was sitting across from him on a chair by the window, frowned, "You, as Sonic would put it, flipped out."

"What?" Tails' ears perked up, "What, what did I say?"

"Pretty much everything." Nicole walked toward him," I assume you had not explained the situation to them?" Watching him nod, Nicole continued, "Well, you may as well explain it to them now."

"But... why did it happen? Did I hurt anyone?" Tails asked.

"Only Eggman," Nicole smirked.

"Oh, so no one important." Tails clenched his fists, "But it shouldn't have happened. I'm normally more in control. I can handle things like this. I've been on plenty of missions with Sonic where this never happened!"

"This is not your home, Tails." Nicole said, "This is a more... peaceful, more lighthearted world. Triggers are more obvious to you here."

"... so there's a chance this could happen again?" Tails asked.

"Unfortunately."

"So what do we do now?" Tails looked up at her.

Nicole held up her hand, "I'm not sure, but I'm getting some encrypted data," Green waves came from her hand, "From someone called Z. I'll get back to you on that. Until then, you have some explaining to do."

Tails sighed as he got up and went through his bedroom door.

Tails could hear from the other room, a slightly nasally voice was interrogating someone. As he looked in, he saw Sticks looking at a little plant with little bitty red buds sticking out, "Ok, out with it, Cosmo! You are behind the Pod People! This has to involve the Metarex, doesn't it? It all ties together! Tails gets me a birthday gift, it takes over his mind, and soon, he starts dating plants. Then he becomes a tree hugger. And the next thing we know, we are all being taken over to serve the robotic plant people as they turn our world into a treetopia, ruled by the evil troll STANLEY!"

"She's been like that since Tails passed out," Amy said.

Sonic looked at her, "Did she really name-"

"It's Sticks, I'm surprised she didn't adopt a little plant to treat her as a sister," Amy said.

Sticks held a little plant, "Don't make me hurt Galaxina, Cosmo!"

Knuckles noticed Tails, "Oh hey Tails, you're Awake. You ok man? You're acting crazier than that random white echidna that showed up at my house one day!"

Amy looked at him in confusion," I thought you were the last one!"

Knuckles shrugged.

Tails scratched the back of his head, "Look, I'm not a pod person as she says..." He sighed, "I haven't been honest with you since this morning, and for that I'm sorry. The truth is I'm not your Tails. Somehow, while I was working on a time travel device in my home universe, my mind was accidentally swapped with your Tails."

"So you're Tails, but not our Tails," Sonic asked. "Before we continue, this is about as weird as it's gonna get right? Because I don't think Knux can handle it."

Knuckles began to sit down, trying to compute it all.

"Well, I hope it is. As far as I know, it's only me who's here. Well, me and the invisible-to-you guys holo-lynx that's in my head." Tails said.

Sonic and Amy looked at him with strange looks, while Styx couldn't help but add, "Careful. When you get those voices in your head, they tend to tell you to do things. And then they skimp out on the pizza bill."

"Wait, if you're here, then what's happening with our Tails?" asked Knuckles.

"That, I'm not too sure. He's most likely in my body, where I'm sure he's safe and sound... hopefully." Tails said, "You may have guessed that my world isn't exactly... like yours." He gave a little wave with his hand.

All four gave out a resounding, "No, really!"

"Yeah, sounds like you went through some stuff. Who's Sally and what's a Knothole? I mean, the only Sally I know is that girl who Amy has a rivalry with." Sonic said.

Amy looks out the window at a red-headed chipmunk, "Acorn. The bane of my high school years. Thinks she's so cool with her perfect hair, well-toned legs, perky-"

The chipmunk in question waved at her with a smile.

"Well, Knothole is, was, my home. And Sally was the princess of my world and your girl-:" Tails coughed a little as Nicole made a shushing motion, "Er, the entire reason I'm here is that I was trying to find a way to fix her from roboticization. Something my Eggman does."

"Robotization? As in, he makes animals into robots? Dude, your Eggman sounds insane and a real jerk," Sonic said.

Amy sat down with Tails and gave him a little hug, "Hey, your friends are...well, alt friends... other friends?"

"Buds no matter what," Sonic said with a smile..

"Yeah. We're right here, and we'll help you any way we can. Hey, maybe that's what can help Tails. Maybe there's something he needs to get here or help he needs to provide!" Amy said

Tails smiled, "Thanks... but what can I possibly do?"

Knuckles smiled," HELPING PEOPLE MONTAGE!" He threw up his hands with excitement.

Amy gently took the hand of an old lady as she crossed the street.

Tails looked up at a familiar old woodchuck and took her hand. Afterward, he was given a mint for his troubles.

Knuckles looked up at a tree and was about to punch it down before Tails stopped him. He flew up, noticing, "Blaze?"

The purple cat frowned as she sat on the tree branch, "Don't. Ask."

Sticks and Tails waited in the bushes, "There they are!"

A cat and a skunk in suits walked by, before staring at them, "I told you she was on to us, Geoffrey!" said the cat, before running off.

"Hershey, wait up!" Said the skunk as he chased after her.

Tails and Sonic stood outside Eggman's lair. Tails knocked on the door, "Uh, Dr. Eggman? I want to apologize for beating you up."

Eggman's voice came over the intercom, "Apologize to me in a week when I'm free from my Fennecaphobia!"

Tails plopped down on a couch with a frown, "Well, I'm still here..."

Knuckles looked at a list, "Yeah, it's amazing what we can get done in a day."

Tails muttered, "This entire place is weird..." He got up, "Why don't you guys take a break or something, and we can get back to this tomorrow."

At that point, Zooey burst down the door, dressed in a lab coat with goggles, and holding a box of beakers, "Here, try my amnesia cure!" She ran towards Tails and prepared to shove the beakers down his throat.

Amy stopped her, "Wait, he doesn't have amnesia... he's just not from our universe..."

Zooey looked at her, and then gasped, "That's even better! I knew the theory of alternate universes was right! Now I just need to use the proper elements and compounds to concoct a way to bring him back home, provided of course the testing goes right, it could go any way-"

"What would be the bad way this could end?" asked Sonic

"Tails could explode, so I better be careful and he's staring at me." Zooey looked at Tails who currently was zoned out.

Amy sighed, "I think Alternate Tails just developed a crush from seeing you in a lab coat with chemicals."

"Hmm, either I don't exist in his universe, or he has not met me yet!" She grabbed her box, "I'll be right back!" She ran off.

Sonic waved at the stunned Tails. Then he snapped his fingers and then rustled his hair.

Tails shook his head, "Um, yeah, sorry." He then noticed Nicole pointing away, "I need to go." He got up.

"Hey, don't worry. We got this," Sonic said to Tails as he walked away.

"Hey, maybe if we found fifty golden rings and then jumped through a signpost?" Knuckles said.

The others stared at him, before shaking their heads"Nah!"

Tails, now alone in his workshop, looked at Nicole, "Did you decipher that code?"

Nicole nodded, "It says, 'Save the Cyborgs' City..'"

Tails blinked,"Cyborgs? What does that mean?"

Nicole shrugged. She then held up a finger "Oh, I should let you know, this world's version of you has awoken."

"How is he?" Tails asked as he was sitting at a workbench.

"Confused, but he seems to be adapting," Nicole said with a smile.

As Sonic left the hut, a female red fox in a black tank top squealed, "Sonic!"

"Huh, wha-" Sonic looked and saw the fox with the black tank top. Smirking, he ran a hand through his quill hair and said, "Hey here. And who are you? I thought I met everyone here at least once. Including Sally."

Amy sat at Meh Burger and drank from her milkshake, narrowing her eyes at Sally, "Oh, one day, Acorn. You will know my wrath. Oh yes, and soon you will burn in Squirrel/Chipmunk Hell while I dance in Hedgehog Heaven." she thought.

Sally waved to Amy happily," Hi neighbor!"

The fox walked up to him and ran her hand through her brown hair, "Oh, I'm new here." She sashayed up and looked at him through half-lidded eyes, "I'm Fiona Fox, and I just had to meet the bravest, fastest, most handsome hedgehog in the world..."

Sonic lowered his eyes and smiled dreamily. He could feel his heart quicken as she looked at him with those eyes. Smiling, he said, "And you found him, Fiona." He then took her hand and winked, "So, how long were you a fan of me?"

"Can you believe that Acorn Sonic?" Amy said to a quilled figure sitting next to her at the table, smirking.

"Nope, not at all, toots," 'Sonic' said, adjusting his shades.

"Look at her wave, all smiles and thinking she knows me. She knows we are sworn to do battle one day. Oh, one day, she WILL know the wrath of Amelia Isabella ROSE!" Amy said, standing up and thrusting her hand up.

"AIR?" asked the very green Sonic, arching a brow.

Fiona smiled sweetly as she rubbed his hand with her thumb, "Oh, ever since your first adventure! You were so amazing, my heart fluttered every time you defeated Eggman! And when you were Super Sonic, mmm!" She used her other hand to touch his chest.

"Super... what?" asked Sonic. He had to admit, that feeling her touch his chest was driving him insane

Fiona blinked, "You know, the yellow thing you turn into? With the Chaos Emeralds?"

Sonic paused, thinking, and then said, "OH you mean that thing I do when I need my nightlight?" he said as he nonchalantly snapped his fingers and turned gold. He then turned it off. "Yeah, they are near my nightstand."

"..." Fiona's eye twitched a little, "Oh, really? Can you take me home so I can see them!?"

"...!" Sonic's eyes opened wide and he smiled, "Why sure! Come this way, pretty lady."

Fiona followed him home, "Nice place, nice beachfront paradise. You said the emeralds are on your nightstand where someone could easily knock you out and steal them?"

Sonic nodded, "Yeah, they're right there on my little nightstand. I usually read by them." he said, ducking quickly from a kick, "Of course, if someone WERE to try and knock me out, they would have to get the drop on me."

He moved out of the way for a bit to grab a soda, "And that is a very hard thing to do to one Sonic T. Hedgehog."

Fiona swiped with her fist, before frowning, "It would be, I mean you're so fast and capable!" Fiona put a hand on her hip, swishing her tail.

"Yeah, fast, smart, strong, and quick in everything," Sonic said, smirking as he dodged a few more strikes. "But if ya want, I could show ya how I am careful in one thing!"

"What's that?" Fiona asked through her teeth.

Sonic blushed, "U-Um, you know. Well, you know. Kissing?"

"Oh." Fiona said, before looking away, "You want to kiss me? Well, go ahead!" She winked at him.

Sonic smiled and walked close, wrapping his arms around her to pull her in. "Hey... is that a hammer?"

And then his world went blank.

Fiona twirled her hammer before putting it back in her holster, "That took longer than expected. But the emeralds are mine now!" She walked over and swiped them, "Might as well take Blue Boy." She grabbed him by the arm. She held her wrist to her face, "Honey, you have Pinky and the Idiot, right?"

"Heh, easy pickings. Stuffed the echidna into a bag, and the Ditz thought I was Sonic for a minute." A male voice sounding like a gruffer Sonic said, "I'm on my way to get the Sidekick."

Tails ran towards his door, looking at his communicator," None of them are answering their comms!" He thought for a moment, "Well, might as well call her." He called Sticks, "Hey, you there? Please tell me you're not trying to investigate the City Hall for aliens."

"What? No, that's Tuesday after Eggman attacks," Sticks' voice said. "Today is trying to solve the mystery of why these kids like Applejack's cereal."

"Well, for one thing, she's my sister, and two, she makes a good cereal," a red-haired horse mobian said as she adjusted her bow.

"What's up?" she asked, eating her own bowl.

"Sonic, Amy, and Knuckles aren't answering their comms! I was trying to ask about cyborgs, but right now I think they're..."

Tails stopped as he looked up and saw a green hedgehog standing in front of him, leaning on the door, wearing a pair of shades and a black jacket," Sticks, get over here. Now." Tails turned off the comm Scourge the Hedgehog, what's he doing here!? "Let me guess, you coming here to kidnap me for your so-called master plan?"

Scourge laughed, "Oh, you catch on quick, Foxie." He tapped his finger on his arm, "Unfortunately, you can't stop me without much backup."

"From what, taking over this world?" Tails said.

Scourge scoffed, "Nah, these guys are idiots. I decided I'm going to destroy it instead." He laughed.

Tails gasped, "You're going to use the cyborgs' city, aren't you!?"

Scourge blinked, "That's scarily accurate... I better shut up before you trick me into telling you that I'm about to take over their city and then drop it on this stupid island!"

There was a long silence.

Scourge sighed and facepalmed, "It's this universe, it's getting to me." He revved up and ran at Tails, only giving the fox a quick second to fly up before tossing a small disc at Scourge.

Scourge dodged it and looked up at him, "Heh, ya missed." Before feeling an electric shock from the disc go through him, "Gah! Muscles, tightening!"

Tails landed in front of him, "I've developed several different strategies to take down Sonic. They're sure to work on you too, Scourge."

Scrouge struggled to get up, "Ya think that a little bit of lighting is gonna hurt me? I'm gonna-is that a boomerang?"

"You aren't going to hurt my friend you possible clone/podperson/alien/robotclone/timetraveler/illegimateson/Sonicinagaudycostume!" Sticks said, throwing her boomerang at Scurge and hitting him upside the head.

Tails looked at the knocked-out Scourge, "Well, actually he's an alternate universe Anti-Sonic, but you were close Sticks."

"Wow... when the world gets something even I didn't think of? We have problems." Sticks said, lightly kicking Scourge, "So why is he here?"

"Um, you know something about cyborgs living in a city in the sky? He said something about using that to slam into the island." Tails said.

"And you're not going to stop us." a female voice said

Tails' breath stopped in his throat, "No... not her...

"He's gonna Char us?!" Shouted Styx as she opened her eyes wide in horror. Then she paused when she noticed that Tails looked on in horror. Turning around she saw the fox girl who just walked in from the garage door, "And who is the shameless hussy?"

Tails slowly turned to see Fiona, "No..."

Fiona scoffed, "Hussy!?"

"Yeah! That leather outfit, that midriff? Totally Hussy. As a matter of fact, if this wasn't a" Sticks paused, pulled up her communicator, turned on the site, and looked at the rating, "T-rated fic. I would think you are getting close to showing something that you-Wait...T-rated?" she cheered as she threw away her panties" WHOOHOO! COMMANDO IS BACK IN! Anyway. I think you were trying to be a hussy to my little friend."

"Please, I've never-" Fiona looked at Tails' stunned look, "No way!" She laughed, "Of course, you knew Scourge's name, knew he was bad news immediately, and now you're nervous around me!" She cocked her head, "Nice to see you again, Tails." She glared at Sticks, "If you must know he had a little crush on me and didn't like it when I betrayed him and his little freedom fighters." She walked towards them, "I suppose I should take care of you since my boy toy's KO'd."

Sticks looked at Tails, took in what Fiona said, and then frowned, "You know what I hate more than a jerk? A jerky pedophile who preys on my friends!"

"Wha- how did- he's the one who had a-" Fiona facepalmed, "I think I'll just kill you. You do know what death is, right Nutjob!?" She ran into a flying kick at Sticks.

Tails stood frozen,(Why can't I move? I'm stronger than this. I can take her. I just need...) tears began to fill his eyes.

Nicole appeared in front of him, "Come on, stay with me Tails. Think of what she and Scourge are planning."

"Hey, I'm allergic to-Oooof!" Sticks was about to quip but the foot to her stomach sent her flying back. Shaking her head, she moved to the side and then tried to sweep her legs.

Fiona backflipped away, before sliding onto the ground towards her.

Sticks leaped up onto Tail's workbench and picked up a monkey wrench and threw it at Fiona, "Take this!"

Fiona's eyes widened as she sidestepped, "Yikes!" She grabbed it, "Here, have it back!" She threw it back at her.

Sticks patted the wrench with a wrench, "Tails! I need a bat!

Fiona laughed, "Please, he's not listening to you right now!"

Nicole glared at Tails, "Tails, you need to listen to me right now. You need to save this world, you and the crazy badger are the only ones who can!" She smirked, "Also, she's touching your stuff."

Tails gasped. He turned and snarled, "Don't touch that without my permission!" He flew up and punched Fiona to the ground.

Sticks gasped, looking around for something to use. Smirking, she leaped behind the bench and grabbed at a large tool. With a grunt, she began to pull at it, and said, "Hang on, I found something good!" she said, pulling the cord, "I found the jackhammer!"

Fiona slowly got up, "A what!?"

Tails looked at Sticks "Careful with that thing!"

"Just hold her steady!" Sticks shouted as she slid along the ground, the jackhammer aimed right at Fiona's solar plexus. "I'm about to send her flying!"

Fiona's eyes widen, "Oh," The Jackhammer slammed into her, sending her flying through the wall.

Tails looked at Sticks,"... Your Tails isn't going to be happy."

Fiona slowly got up, and glared through the fox-shaped hole, "Okay then." She heard someone walking up to the house, "I'll just play with your foolish heroism and take a hostage!" She turned to the approaching figure.

"Fiona?" Zooey's voice asked, "Aren't you in college by now?"

Fiona stood there in shock, "No..."

"Eh, I'll just tell him that the alien in my flower pot did it," Sticks snarked, "Whoa, Plot development. Zooey, how do you know her?" she shouted through the hole

Zooey nodded, "She's my sister!"

Fiona took a few steps back, and shook her head, "This isn't fair... this isn't fair!" she ran through the hole in the wall to grab Scourge. She threw out a warp ring to teleport away.

Sticks ran towards the portal, shouting, "Hey! HEY! You don't get to teleport away like that, dealing with an emotional moment, and setting things up for later until you say where my friends are! HEY!" She was jumping up and waving her arms frantically.

Zooey walked through the hole in the wall, "Was it something I said?"

Tails sighed as he turned to his workbench, "That wasn't your sister."

Zooey gasped, "OMG, it was an alternate universe variant!? This is great! And I bet she was evil too! This brings to mind so many possibilities, so many new things, and clearly, I exist where she was because she was so shocked to see me!"

Tails frowned, "Maybe..."

"Or maybe...you're the alternate verse variant!" Sticks shouted, pointing at Zooey, "Or, we are all variants of another show out there that wouldn't even crossover with in the first place and this is actually a variant of a variant, and I-" she waved back and forth a little,"I better stop before I OCT(2) and start seeing about saving the island"

Tails patted the badger's back, "Just sit back and enjoy the ride." He looked at Zooey, "That was my Fiona... but I've never met you before." He let out a sigh.

Zooey looked away, "I see... " She nodded.

"Zooey," Tails put his hands on her shoulders, "Can you go to the civilians and try to evacuate them? The island might get destroyed, and if I fail..."

"Well, I don't have that much clout, but I can certainly try," She pumped her fist, "Good luck you two!" she ran off.

Tails walked to his workbench and pulled out the Miles Electric, "If I know Scourge right, our friends are probably in that floating city... you do know where it is, right Sticks?"

"Yeah, Roboken. It's that away," she pointed to a floating city in the sky, "Surprised you didn't see it on the way here."

Tails stared at it, "Huh, how did I miss that?" He turned to his workbench," Knowing Scourge, he's probably already awake and gloating to Sonic. It'll give us enough time to save them and stop him..." He turned to Sticks, "Uh, Do we have Shadow on speed dial?"

"Evil."

"What!? Okay, Team Chaotix?"

"Separated."

"Blaze?"

"You sent her home yourself."

"... Mighty and Ray?"

"You think Sega would allow them to come back!?"

Tails sighed, "Guess it's just me, the nuttiest badger, and a holo-lynx stuck in my head."

"If it helps, I can give you moral support?" Nicole appeared in a cheerleader outfit and waved a pair of pom-poms,"Go, team."

*Bzzt* "Ow"

*Bzzt* "OW" Knuckles kept touching the electrified bars of his cage.

Sonic sighed and asked, "Anybody come up with a plan yet?"

"Hey, I think my plan of overloading this thing with 1000 touches of these bars will help," Knuckles said, continuing to touch the bars..

Amy shook her head and asked, "Ok, so Sonic Trick, Girl Trick, and you?"

Knuckles paused in his brilliant plan to think...

"Congratulations Knuckles, you won...an echidna-shaped bag!" Scourge, who wore a lousy mustache, said.

Knuckles leaped for joy," Oh boy! An echidna-shaped bag? Always wanted one!" then he paused, "Wait...how do I know it's Enchinda shaped? I better look inside." he then crawled inside of the bag, allowing Scourge to tie the bag up around him.

"Ok, I can tell his is, in fact, echidna shaped. You can let me go now," Knuckles said.

Scourge stopped, and face palmed, "How about I just take you hostage into my trap first."

"Oh sure!" Knuckles said, popping his head out, "But then home right? There is this cute female echidna I met online that I gotta see."

"Um... why not?" Scourge said with a shrug.

Amy and Sonic could only nod.

Scourge's laugh came from the shadows, "Yes, all of you were total saps!" He then muttered, "Except for the Batshit Badger and the Runt." He stepped into the light and adjusted his shades, "You know, Roboken is nice this time of year... shame it has to go, along with you."

"Whoa, nice shades. Look cheap though," Sonic said, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning back, "Though now I know what I look like if I was green."

"Wait, what do you mean, have to go?" Amy asked, not noticing Knuckles removing his glove, and then tasting his finger.

Scourge scoffed, "These shades were worth 100 Mobiums, Blue Boy!" He walked around the cage, "I'll put this in words the Dumbass over there can understand: We've set it up so that way the city will fly over to your precious island, and fall on it!" He pointed at them, "You and your annoying little friends are going to die a fiery death, and I'll be laughing."

"You monster. You'll kill everyone!" Sonic said, getting closer to the bars and glaring at him. "But hey, why do I expect from a wimpy me," he said with a shrug.

"Mmmmm, doesn't taste like syrup." Knuckles said, slurping on his finger.

Scourge laughed, "Wimpy? Me!? I didn't get tricked by a hot fox!" He looked at Fiona, who seemed to be staring at the ground, "But, I'm really working on not letting versions of you get to me, so I'll let that comment slide."

"Oh, so you don't mind if I call ya a wimp who was scared to fight me. You had to send her and deal with other people," Sonic said with an arched brow.

Scourge's eye twitched, "Look pal, I wasn't the one who decided that! That freakin' platypus said he wanted this to be 'Subtle!'"

"Neon green is subtle?" asked Amy.

"Platypus?" asked Sonic. "Perry has gone insane?"

Knuckles continued to suckle on his finger.

"Well, as subtle as possible." Scourge said. He walked around, "Our platypus, Dr. Starline managed to convince me that this was the best way to handle things... don't remember agreeing to it, but whateves." He looked up," He should be setting things up by now."

A white platypus in a purple shirt and black gloves pulled away from a computer, "That's done. Now," He turned to a frog bot who was crying. , "Care to tell me how you created organic brains for your cyborgs?"

The bot shook his head with a whimper.

"Right, time for more music!" Starline pressed a button, letting some music play.

Sunshine, lollipops, and rainbows

Everything that's wonderful is what I feel when we're together

The bot began to scream loudly as Starline held up his coffee mug that had the letter I, a heart, and the Eggman symbol on it, and took a sip.

"Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got to prepare myself to make a fox pelt!" He walked away, before stopping at Fiona, "Hey, what's going on?" He whispered, "You haven't said a word since we got back."

Fiona looked at him, and shook her head, "I'm fine... just thinking that this might be a bit excessive."

"What, you getting a conscience or something?" Scourge frowned at her, "We agreed to this remember?"

Fiona scoffed before looking away, "Nothing like that... I'm just..." She shook her head, "Never mind, let's go." She walked with him.

Sonic screamed, "Hey, get back here so I can mock you some more and treat you like a dork."

"I... don't think he's coming back," Amy sighed and sat down. "Nothing more to do than to wait for Tails and Sticks to come and help us."

"Well," Sonic chuckled as he sat against the wall and put his hands behind his head, "We're in good hands."

"Yeah," Amy said, looking down and sighing, "but it's not our Tails. We don't know him."

"I don't know," Sonic said, looking back at Amy, "He's still Tails, no matter what universe he's in. Smart, clever, and probably didn't fall for an obvious trap."

Amy chuckled, "Yeah, like seeing an evil version like your friend or being seduced by an obviously evil fox girl."

"Or just being Knux."

Knuckles popped his finger out, "Hey! I don't taste like syrup..."

Tails put on a pair of gloves, and then adjusted his goggles before hopping into the Tornado, "Alright, let's go... but put on some panties first, Sticks!"

"Ya got a problem with nature, Tails?" Sticks said, grumbling as she went inside Amy's hut to grab her custom passion panties.

"The Tornado only has one seat, and I do not want to get distracted while you stand on top of it!" Tails shouted.

Sticks rolled her eyes and jumped to the top of the tornado, "Look, there is nothing wrong with looking at a girl's _ It's a natural part of the body. Know how many times I look at everyone's _." she then sat down, "But if it will make you feel better!"

Tails sighed as he started the engine, "I appreciate it." He looked at Nicole who was floating beside him, wearing aviator goggles, "Anything on Zooey in our world?"

Nicole, now dressed in a flight jacket, adjusted her goggles, "I'm running through my databanks, but I haven't found anything yet."

"Alright, keep me posted." Tails glared as the Tornado took off, "Let's go!"

"So, how does Sonic stand on this thing without flying-" the plane took off "OFFFFFFFFFFFFF!"

Tails shouted, "He has a lot of practice!"

He flew the Tornado up to the city, where he noticed that it was very empty. He took out the Miles Electric after they landed, "Luckily, your Tails has trackers on all of your communicators."

Sticks paused as the realization hit her and she screamed. "IIIIIIIIIIII KNEW ITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!"

Tails groaned, "Sticks, there are more important things right now than whether or not I'm a government agent/alien/evil pizza delivery fox."

Sticks looked down at Tails, "How did you come up with evil Pizza delivery fox? What do you know of your world? Oh, I am so gonna interrogate that little Kyubi!"

Tails let out an annoyed sigh," Nicole, please warn him."

"I would, but our Sonic is currently taking him snowboarding," Nicole said.

"Darn it." Tails muttered as he sped off.

"So where are they?" asked Sticks.

Tails flew forward frowning, "You know, I was expecting some resistance." He stopped at the central dome, "They're here." He opened the door to see a large room where the trio sat in cages.

"Hey Tails," Knuckles said, smiling, "Could you tell me what syrup I taste like?"

"You know," Sticks said, stepping in, "If this was a good time for a trap. That would be right now."

Everyone paused, waiting as...

Nothing happened.

"Huh, guess he has bad timing," Sonic commented.

Tails looked around," Or he's waiting until the last possible minute." He took the Miles Electric and raised it over the cages," He did a number on you, didn't he..." He frowned as he looked over each of his friends, "Tricked by Fiona."

Sonic shrugged, "What can I say, the chicks dig me."

"Thought a green hedgehog was Sonic." Tails frowned at Amy.

"Hey, he was in the shadows and the light was in my eyes," Amy said, "Anyone could look like Sonic like that. Even Shadow would look like Sonic."

"Amy. Glasses." Tails said," and you were tricked by Scourge in disguise into going inside an echidna-shaped bag." he pointed at Knuckles

"Wait, the bag was a trick?" Knuckles asked, cocking his head.

Tails facepalmed for a bit, "Just let me get you-" He was then swatted to the side by a green blur, "There's the trap!"

"You have lame timing!" Sticks shouted while still in the doorway.

Scourge crossed his arms as he looked over Tails, "Nah, I have perfect timing! I waited until he least expected it!"

Tails muttered as he got up, "Scourge, you really don't want to do this."

Scourge sped up to grab the fox by the neck, "Actually, I do. I want Sonic to watch as his best buddy dies, isn't that fun!? He'll get angry and slowly get corrupted to being just like me, right!?" His eye twitched.

"... This world really is getting to you." Tails coughed out.

Scourge began to shake the poor fox, "Every damn character in this world is clinically insane, especially the Comedy Chimp!" Scourge shouted

"And Sticks!" Tails threw the Miles Electric to Sticks, "Press random buttons!"

Scourge raised a brow. He looked at where Tails threw the device before turning back to him, "What's that gonna do?"

Sticks laughed, "That's the fun part! I have no idea!" she said, pressing buttons randomly and slapping every button on the console. "Let's see we have: Boombox mode, Disco, Roku, Sega Saturn, Unlocking the cages, locking the cages, making a cake, baking a cake, baking, Locking the cages, Unlock the cages, self destruct, turn off the self destruct, Fight music start, Unlock the cages, relock the cages, turn off the cages permanently and set everyone into a fighting pose, mint ice cream maker, and chili dog producer."

Scrouge laughed, "You think I care about-wait... how many times did she push the unlock button?"

A blue blur passed by, leaving in Scourge's grip a doll of tails with a little doodle bop on its head. As he turned around, he saw Sonic standing with his fist on his hip, chili dog in hand bouncing while smirking. Next to him, Tails happily ate his mint ice cream, "Enough," he then ate the dog in one bite.

Scourge dropped the doll with a frown, "I hate you." With that, he sped towards Sonic.

The Tails Doll watched the battle about to take place. Sitting there, unmoving, watching, its doll-like eyes just gazing on. As if it was watching the world around it change and get ready for a big battle.

Then it turned its head to you, staring. Staring. Staring...

Sticks frowned at this and turned to the author, "Old memes are the devil. I will make you suffer."

Sonic sped up and slid under Scourge, kicking him in the gut and up into Amy's hammer.

Scourge yelled out in pain as he slammed into the ground. He spun on hand and got up with a snarl.

A voice came from the doorway where Tails was, "Now, five against one... that's unfair."

"Well, maybe if he knew the shadow clone move or if he had multiple personality disorder," Knuckles corrected.

Amy looked in the direction of the voice, "Who was that?"

A platypus stood in the doorway, arms crossed, "I am Dr. Starline." he combed back his black and white hair.

Tails looked at the others,"... Do you guys know him?"

The entire group, except for Sonic and Scourge who were fighting, shrugged.

Starline smirked, "I didn't think you did. As far as I know, I don't exist in either of your worlds." He sighed and looked to the right, "I wish I could give further pleasantries, but the countdown is starting, and I mustn't delay. Metal Amy, Metal Knuckles, keep them busy for me, will you?" He clapped his hands as two robots appeared from the shadows.

One looked like Knuckles himself, but with green robotic eyes and two spikes for hands.

The other looked like Amy but floating on two rocket boosters. Her hands were two large hammers.

Dr. Starline turned, glowing blue for a bit, and began to leave the area.

"Hey!" Sticks shouted as she tried throwing a boomerang at him, "Where do you think you are going, Perry!? HEY!"

Knuckles looked at metal Knux. He looked, paused, and then pulled out a communicator, "Mom? Is there something you not telling me?

Tails looked at them, "You guys can handle this, right?"

Metal Knuckles' hands fell to his side, almost as if he were sighing in exasperation.

There were two blurs, only for the blue to stop for five seconds to hold up a thumbs up. Amy smiled, "Oh no way a hammer-bot girl is going to stop me!"

Metal Amy slammed her hammers together as a taunt.

"Yeah mom, there is another me here and I wanted to know if you had finally remarried." Knuckles asked. "What do you mean you aren't my mom? How did you get Mom's number then? Oh... I typed the wrong number."

Metal Knuckles facepalmed.

Tails nodded, "Good, Come on Sticks!" He ran off after Starline.

Scourge stopped for a brief moment, and then brought a warp ring, "Let's bring this outside." He threw it to the side.

"With pleasure!" Sonic said chasing after Scourge.

Knuckles finished his phone call, "Ok, so I don't have a little brother. Sadly." he frowned at this.

Metal Knuckles charged at him in response.

Sticks smiled widely as she ran after her friend.

Starline waited for Tails and Sticks at a computer, humming to himself as a voice began counting down, "Five Minutes til Destruction.

"Stay away from that, and stop looking up..." Sticks looked at his site, " . and you, I know you're looking up something heinous, you degenerate!" she added, pointing to you.

Starline let out a sigh, "Sticks." He turned to them, "And Tails, the second smartest person in the room."

Tails crossed his arms and scoffed, "Eesh, you've got an ego don't you!?"

"When you get as intelligent as me you deserve one." He smirked.

Tails walked towards him, "I figured Scourge wasn't smart enough for this kind of plan. What are you doing with him!?"

Starline cocked his head, "You know, normally I'd tell you my entire plan, besides the colony drop, as a form of gloating, but I am trying to move away from that." He looked at Sticks, "By the way, Sticks, are you sure you can trust him?"

Sticks paused, and lowered her boomerang," What do you mean?"

"He might be a pod person!" Starline said with a gasp, "I know, I've been watching the skies!"

"No, but he can't...but it makes too much sense." Sticks said. Then she looked at him, "Wait...you watch the skies?"

"Of course, so I can keep an eye on the alien forces," Starline said.

Tails looked back at Sticks with worry," Sticks, don't believe him..."

Sticks clenched her fist, narrowing her eyes as she leaped at...

Starline, "THAT'S WHAT THE LAST POD PERSON COMMANDER SAID TO ME!"

Meanwhile, at Tails' home, Dark Oak sighed, "How did she know that I was one of the pod people? Well, time to ditch the plan. Come along Cosmo," he said, reaching down to pick up the potted plant from before. Happily, he patted his daughter's head

"I'll not fall for that again and betray my hero, the Rock of Destiny!"

Starline's eyes widened before he leaped to the side, "Well, it was worth a shot."

Tails laughed, before flying over to the console, "Never doubt my friends, Doc."

Starline sighed as he adjusted his glove, "Plan B it is." He swung the back of his heel at her.

Scourge and Sonic raced down the island before Scourge stopped and whistled as he looked over the horizon, noticing Roboken heading towards Sonic's home, "It's almost there."

"You act like there is a chance for you to come out on top, greenie," Sonic mocked.

"Oh, there is." Scourge smirked, "You're not there to save Tails, Amy, Knuckles, Sticks, and every little robot and Mobian there." He laughed, "You have front row seats to their deaths!" He put his shades down on his face, "And I can't wait to see what happens to you."

"Now you see, that's your biggest issue," Sonic said, keeping pace as he ran with Scourge over the desert, forest, and mountain. "You think that they need me." He chuckled, "Oh no, see... I need them just as much as they need me. And if I thought that they would fail without me?"

Amy comforted Knuckles, who sat over the beaten Metal Knuckles, crying over his lost brother and making a memorial.

Metal Amy cocked her head at her beaten comrade before attempting to slam her hammers into Amy.

"Then they wouldn't be my best friends," Sonic said as he punched Scourge hard in the face.

Scourge stepped back a bit, before wiping his cheek, "Such heroic optimism." He snarled, "That's what makes you so annoying." He reached into his jacket, "You familiar with power rings? Well, in one world, only you can use them to power yourself up..." He held up a large gold ring, "But since I AM you-!" The ring caused his entire body to shine and sparkle. He then did a spin dash towards Sonic.

Sonic turned himself into a ball and revved up, speeding off into Scourge. Then as he spin dashed at him, he collided with Scourge in a powerful strike. The two spun as fast as they could, causing sparks to fly from their blow. However, Sonic soon lost ground and the green hedgehog knocked Sonic back, leaving behind several cuts along his chest and stomach. Shaking his head, he smirked, "Well, you know what makes you annoying? You think that the world is annoying as long as it doesn't get as dark as you like. So when you see a world like mine?"

Amy began to block the hammers with her single hammer, before Striking back with hers twice. Then she spn around t slam her in the stomach.

Sticks ducked and weaved, shouting something at Tails about hurrying up before they all died.

"It hurts and breaks you. But you see? My world? This one is full of hope because we know how to have the best kind of life, full of fun and adventure," Sonic said, struggling to get up, reach behind him, and pull something circular hidden behind him.

Scourge's eyes widened," When did you-?"

"While you were beating me." Sonic held up the ring as Scourge did moments before."Oh, by the way, I'm you too. So this means," Sonic smirked, "This would also affect me..." a golden light shone around him, followed by a crackle of lighting as he sped at Scourge in a spin dash.

Scourge snarled and did his own spin dash, slamming into Sonic with a shockwave.

Tails looked at the clock, "1 minute remaining." A voice said. Then he heard a thump. He turned to see Sticks knocked out on the ground.

Starline loomed over her, "One hit puts them to sleep. The next?" He smirked, aiming his foot over her.

Tails flew over and punched him away, "No!" He stood in front of Sticks, "I won't let you harm her, or anyone here!" He winced a little from the pain in his knuckle, Punching him felt like I hit a robot!

Starline scoffed as he adjusted himself, "Oh please. Killing her is a kindness. Her friends would be much saner without her."

"She's insane, I'll give you that." Tails spread his tails wide, "I admit, I found her ridiculous when we first met... but then I began to spend time with her, with them. She's weird, but, she's still a loyal, heroic friend. Amy's still compassionate. Knuckles are still strong. And Sonic?"

Scourge skidded on the ground, before speeding off, slamming into Sonic with a lightning bolt striking between them.

"He's still the bravest hedgehog I know." Tails smiled, "Sure, they're strange... but they're still my friends, and I won't let this world die just because it's not as dark as you want it to be!"

Starline walked to him, "Such kind words..."

"10 seconds remaining."

"But you are too late. They will die, along with everyone else here."

Tails gasped, looking back at the clock.

"5"

"Save her, or save everyone else." Starline laughed as he pulled out a platinum ring.

"4."

"3"

"2.

"1"

"Happy Birthday."

Tails blinked. Starline blinked. The city stopped.

"What," Starline asked.

A lynx appeared on the console screen, "Hello Starline. I have taken the liberty of disabling the... what did Sticks call it, the 'Char' maneuver?"

"Nicole!" Tails said with a smile.

Sticks mumbled sleepily, "Char maneuver is copyright."

Starline frowned. He held up his glove, "Scourge, Metals, Fiona. We have failed. We need to leave, now." He threw the platinum ring down to the ground, "You have beaten us this time, Fox. I hope this doesn't become a frequent occurrence with us." He leaped down.

Tails sat down next to Sticks, "Nicole, how did you do that?"

Nicole smiled down at him, "Well, I noticed that you were in trouble, and even though I'm still in your head, I had to do something. And that something seems to be taking over electronic devices.. Although it seems to be temporary, I already feel my connection waning." She frowned, "I had an easier time than I expected, Tails. It seems there was a backdoor set up by someone, but I don't know who..."

Fiona listened from the shadows, and looked down, "You're welcome Zooey." She threw a platinum ring and walked away.

Sonic fixed his glove, "So, want to run, fight, or cry about your loss? Because I can still go either way."

"Heh, I knew that about you," Scourge said with a smirk as he stepped back, "But, I gotta jet. See ya punk!" and with that, he jumped down a ring portal.

Sonic sighed and leaned against a tree, "Phew. I'm glad." he then looked at his communicator, "Everyone made it through alive?"

Amy nodded, "Yeah, we all did."

"Not...everyone," Knuckles said, holding the defeated Knuxbot in his arms, kneeling down as he shouted to the heavens, "I lost my BROTHER!" he then began to cry.

"Yeah everyone did," Amy said. "Makes me wonder where some of the cyborgs were in the fight though."

That was when a robotic Sonic ran by normal Sonic,"Hey, we just got back from a vacation, what are you doing here man?" He asked.

Tails let out a sigh of relief, "I'm glad you guys are... moderately okay." He looked down, "Thanks for everything, everyone." With that, a bright flash invaded his eyes.

Tails then found himself standing in a room. He blinked a few times before his door opened to reveal a green girl in a flower dress with roses in her hair, "Tails," She said, cupping her hands together, "I... just want to say thank you for everything." She walked up and gave him a hug.

Tails' eyes widened as his face instantly flushed, "Oh boy..."

Off-Topic:

Bolts, standing alone in the torture room with headphones still attached to his head," Um, I'm still stuck here? Anyone? It's cold and there are robot wolves after me..."

Notes:

A/N:
I hope things are well explained here. And any questions such as where the Destructix are and why Starline's alive now will be explained later. Please let me know how to improve.
1 Mad Scientist Organization
2 Over Conspiracy Theory

Chapter 2: X

Chapter Text

The girl pulled away from him, "Tails? You seem awfully quiet, was it something I said?" She cocked her head.

Tails stared at her, "Uh..." Quick, think of something " Sorry, I just got up, and when I'm alone with a pretty girl, my brain kinda short-circuits!" He gave a nervous laugh.

"Oh, I understand," the girl smiled warmly, "I can get a little nervous too. Amy told me a lot about how it’s normal for a new couple to be nervous around each other." she then blushed, "Not that I think we're a couple it was just what Amy said." she then walked away, before turning to smile at him.

Nicole stood behind Tails, arms folded and narrowing her eyes.

Tails stammered,"Yeah, okay..." He turned to Nicole,"... what's wrong?"

"Your brain short circuits, when you are alone with a pretty girl?" Nicole asked, narrowing her eyes as they began to change from a light purple to a dark red, "You have been able to freely talk with me. Alone. Several times. Am I to assume that means, that I... am... not... PRETTY!?"

Tails began to stammer and wave his hands,"No, you don't understand, it was a spur of the moment thing-"

"Miles Prower," Nicole said, walking up to Tails and putting her finger against his chest fur, "I may be just an AI hologram constructed through superior technology. But I am still a woman and I still liked to be called pretty once in a while. Women do have certain needs, you know?!" she narrowed her eyes and frowned, "I would believe, considering the company that you keep that you would've known that much!"

Turning around, she stuck up her little tail and gave a humph, "You sir are on your own until I decide to come back. Which probably won't be until after some immense ice cream binging!" and with that, she vanished.

Right behind Tails, someone pink began to clack her hammer against her palm, the look of absolute rage in her emerald eyes.

Tails closed his eyes, She heard that too!? He turned around,"Look, Amy, it's not what you think!"

"Not pretty? NOT PRETTY?!" Amy growled, "The only reason why my hammer and your face are not best friends right now, is because it would make her sad. And I am not going to break my friend’s heart!" she said, before turning around, lifting her tail and giving a huff.

"Tails, if I'm not pretty then what am I?" asked Cream.

Tails looked at Cream, and quickly came up with something,"Uh, cute?"

"No, that's what Mom calls me. " she then gasped, "I know, sexy! That's what people call Mommy!" she then skipped down the hallway to her room, "I'm sexy, I'm sexy." she sang.

Tails' jaw dropped, before he walked to a wall and slammed his head into it,"Vanilla's going to kill this Tails..." He let out a grumble. He began pacing the floor,"Great, I ticked off Nicole, I'm not home, and there's this creepy platypus guy running around doing who knows what with Fiona and Scourge! Anything else!?" He looked out a window,"Huh, must be night... with no ground visible... and the stars are moving..." He thought for a moment.

"I'm in space!?" He shouted.

A young boy walked by, "I know, isn't it great?" he then walked away.

Tails walked away from the window,"Alright, you're in space, you need to figure out who's on this ship first. You know Cream and Amy are here, but who else? Oh, I hope I wasn't this ship's navigator..." He flew off towards the cockpit,"Oh, who am I kidding, I probably built this ship, of course, I'm the navigator!"

He stopped at the cockpit, and looked over its computer,"Alright, crew listings first, and... emergency journal." He noticed a light yellow journal near the computer.

"Amy

Cream,

Myself,

Sonic, that's obvious

Knuckles, shouldn't he be guarding the Master Emerald?

Cosmo

And Chris..."

Tails frowned,"Two names I don't recognize... which one is the girl? Chris could be short for Christine..."

Sonic raced behind Tails for a second, "Tails, you ok? Why are you looking over everybody? Is anyone missing?"

Tails muttered a bit,"Uh, no, just kinda checking over things. Wouldn't want to miss anyone." He looked over parts of the emergency journal he had grabbed,"After all, we have an important mission to do here!"

"If you are an evil me, please check Pg.14

If you are a time-displaced me, please check Pg. 7

If you are from another universe, please check pg.18

"Yeah, taking out the Metarex, flying through space, collecting emeralds. Easy stuff," Sonic said, "Just take it easy. Don't want to pass out right?"

(pg 14: To evil me, please remember that I will find you and that the mint ice cream is in the fridge. Don't try and kill my friends and I promise not to lead a revolution in your world.)

(pg. 7: Yes, I am a time-displaced you. I will tell you that everything is going to be ok, you are just replaced by an alternate body for a moment. Just continue as you are. Just remember that your alternate self will put down a way to help Cosmo. That is all I can say for the moment because O- I mean your godchild Kilo is asking me to help with flying lessons. And if you are the alt, please write what you learned from the end of your adventure in the following space. I know you will because I remember reading what you wrote.

_______________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________

___________________________________________________

(pg. 18: Hello alt me. Here are some basics. You are on the Blue Typhoon, you are stopping the Metarex, who are a group of plant aliens that want to turn the world into forests and kill us all. We are looking for the chaos emeralds. The plant girl is Cosmo, and we...um...we...ok, she is adorable and cute and I think I love her but I'm not sure, I try to ask Sonic but he doesn't know and Knuckles has problems with girls and I'm scared to talk to Amy and you know that Cream is to-

Sorry for the ramble. Wait, do you ramble like I do? Is Sonic still the same? Or is he a girl? What about us? Are you a girl? Oh goodness, um...

Sorry for rambling the third time. Anyway, I don't know why we switched. It might have something to do with our adventure, or something is weird. Maybe Knuckles has something or Sonic. Though he is probably running around the ship.)

----------------------

(Mobius prime)

Amy sat with Nicole, rubbing her friend's back, "It's ok. He probably didn't mean to be a jerk."

"I just... I thought this form looked good," Nicole said, eating her third can of ice cream, crying, "I thought I looked pretty. I thought I looked good."

"Look, we know you look adorable," Mina said, sitting in her own nightgown, "And Tails, e's just complicated. Come on, let's just watch some TV, and maybe you'll feel better in the morning."

Amy smiled, "Yeah! I can call some of the other girls and we can have a girls’ night out together!!"

Mina cheered, "Yeah!"

"T-thank you," Nicole sniffed.

--------------------------------------

Mobius 2003

Sonic ran by Tails as he read, "Hey, you know what we need in here? A workout room or something!"

"Noted." Tails said with a smile,"I'm going to look around the ship for a while, Sonic. I don't think anything too bad is going to happen while I'm not looking.” I hope.

"Eh, probably nothing much," Sonic said. "They've been quiet for a while. Probably taking the day off," he said before racing off.

Knuckles laid back next to the master emerald, sighing, "I miss home. I miss the island, and I am getting annoyed with just laying here." he gave a small yawn as he looked up at the ceiling and began to count the tiles.

Tails chuckled a bit,"A villain taking the day off... wonder what the engine room is like..."

He entered, noticing the Master Emerald and Knuckles,"Well, that's surprising..."

Knuckles raised his head, "And what brings the captain in here? Can't you see I'm contemplating?"

"Uh, contemplating what?" Tails asked, walking around to Knuckles' front.

"Everything, " Knuckles said, waving his hand in the air, "My place here. Just what all the little animals are doing on the island and if they are ok." clenching his fist, he muttered a little, "We left without even thinking about what removing the Master Emerald was going to do to my home... my friends."

"But," Knuckles waved his hand, "What does it matter? I'm just the naive idiot redhead who is overly devoted to his large green gem right."

Tails winced at that, "Knuckles, I'm sorry that we never asked you first, but we didn't have a choice!" He sighed, "We needed a power source and we're pretty much on a time limit when it comes to the Metarex." He sighed I can't believe I'm apologizing for some other me... He smiled, "But you're here, Knuckles, you're here to protect the Master Emerald, and I can't see anyone else being able to do that."

He sat down in front of him,"You're not as cool as Sonic... but if anything were to happen to him, I know I can rely on you to get us out of a jam!"

Knuckles looked over his shoulder at Tails as he sat down in front, smiling a little. He also arched his eyebrow in curiosity as he heard these words from Tails. He then let out a small smirk, "Of course, I'm not as cool as Sonic, I'm a little better." Then he added, "You really rely on me like that? I'm surprised you do. You don't usually say it."

"I don't need to." Tails said with a smile.

"Well, you know. It sometimes helps to know that. I don't exactly have his ego," Knuckles said.

Tails chuckled,"Okay, maybe that's one area you're better than Sonic in. He's my big bro, but he does have an ego..." He got up.

"Yeah, he does." Knuckles said, giving Tails a fistbump while he laid back. "And thanks for the pep talk."

"No prob!" Tails flew on out of the chamber.

He flew past Amy, who had a concerned look on her face. He stopped in mid-air,"Uh, Amy, I just want to say-"

"... The cards..." Amy muttered.

"Cards?" Tails asked,"Your tarot cards?"

Amy looked up at him,"You remembered? No one remembers my fortune-telling hobby!" She sighed,"My cards spelled a bad omen for today..."

"How bad?" gulped tails.

"I'm not sure, the cards don't tell me that much," Amy said.

Amy shot a glare at him, before nodding,"Apology accepted." She turned on her heel and walked away,"Although, I think Vanilla's gonna kill you."

Tails paused, and then nodded, "Yes," he then added under his breath, "But I appear to survive it long enough to write a message. Though..." he then began to ramble a hundred theories in his head very rapidly.

Tails flew over to the garage, where he saw multiple Tornadoes, from a steel grey one, to a gold one,"Oh, my god. This version of me is awesome." He walked to his workshop.

Inside his workshop were his usual gears, tools, and equipment. Alongside a photo of him and the green girl from before hugging. Alongside that were notes, particularly of the chaos emeralds and what could be done to improve on their power.

Tails took a look at the notes, and thought about them,"I wonder if the chaos emeralds have similar properties across universes..."

-----------

Amy stared up at the ceiling from her bed,"I'm glad someone acknowledged one of my hobbies... it seems that all anyone knows about me is my love for Sonic, nothing else..." She got up,"That's one of the reasons I've been so on edge throughout this adventure. Well, that and the fact that our world will die if we fail." She blinked,"Wait, when did Tails know I'm into fortune-telling?"

------------

Tails put on a bracelet with a red gem on it,"The Metarex want to create forests everywhere. Must mean they're plant-based, so I'll steal an idea from Hope. A flame shield." He clenched his fist, creating a fiery shield around him,"There."

A pencil rolled from a tipped cup, hitting a small turned-over book. The book's cover read "Super forms." with a picture of sonic. As Tails looked through the book, he would see one particular page dogeared. One labeled corruption?

In the image was a blacked-out hedgehog.

"Corruption?" Tails frowned,"What could cause this?" He began reading through it,"False emeralds, severe mental stress..." He frowned, thinking about how Naugus became king, how Antoine got injured, and the roboticization of Sally,"I wonder..." He began to mutter to himself.

-------

Elsewhere, a certain black hedgehog was brooding in a hallway on another ship. The sound of a scream entered his ears.

"ROUGE!" the black hedgehog shouted in his mind as he opened the door and began to race down the hallway. His mind hoped and prayed that his partner had just messed up and turned on the cold water again by accident. His mind also told him that this was not always the case and if so... woe be it to the person who touched her.

Slamming past a few worker bots and kicking Bokkun aside just to make himself smile, he ran towards the sound and slammed open the door.

Shadow would see Rouge with several vines wrapped around her arms and legs. The vines seemed to be coming from a large ring portal in the wall.

Rouge struggled,"I think I've seen enough hentai to know where this is going!" She let out a yelp as the vines dragged her towards the portal.

Several images flashed through his mind, those of an innocent young girl wishing him to make the world better. A failed rescue attempt and feeling helpless to stop the bullets, and the rage he felt. The difference between then and now was, there was no glass in between him and the fools who incurred his wrath. Holding out his hand, he shouted, "Chaos Spear!" and fired several bolts of light at the vines. Then he ran to grab Rouge's hand,

"Why must you remind me of that movie you showed me!"

The spears struck the vines, and some of them were being torn, but oddly, the spears seemed less effective than usual.

Rouge came closer through the portal, attempting to reach for his hand. Shadow would catch a glimpse of a figure through it.

Shadow growled, not liking his ineffectiveness. Looking to the wall, he leaped to the side and bounced off, curling into a spindash to try and cut the vines. Shaking his head at how strong they were, he made one last attempt to reach out for Rouge, his fingers lightly touching hers as she was pulled away. His red eyes looked into her blues for one second as she was pulled away into the ring portal and out of his sight.

For a long moment, he sat there, looking at where Rouge had vanished. His eyes were wide in shock at how he lost another one, another... friend. He turned his head down to look at his fingers, before clenching his hand into a fist of rage. And then-

"Sir, a part of the ship is missing," a yellow robot said to a man sitting in his chair.

"What? Oh, don't tell me that Shadow just lost it again!" Eggman said as he ran out to see a yellow streak leaving the destroyed side of the ship.

Outside was a large green planet with several tendrils coming out.

--------

Tails hummed as he began to pull out some weiners, buns, and some ingredients. He had a little chef's hat on as he began to make some chili.

Cosmo walked by, sniffing the air, "Tails, what is that smell? Why are you cooking tonight?"

"It's chili. I got hungry while working on a thunder shield." He smiled at Cosmo,"I'm going to make some chili dogs, there was a severe lack of them in the fridge."

"Oh," Cosmo said, "Do you think anyone here likes them as much as you do?"

"Well, Sonic does." Tails said,"He likes them really spicy. Me, I like putting mint leaves on them." He looked at Cosmo,"Uh, this is gonna sound weird, but, do you eat food? You look plant-based, so I don't know if you work on normal plant logic and photosynthesize and I don't wanna sound insensitive by offering you one-" He gasped,"I eat mint! is that offensive to you? I'm so sorry!"

"Yes, I do eat," Cosmo said, "Sometimes I just sit back and let the sunlight hit me in my room and take in oxygen, but I can also digest. For the most part, all of my internal organs are much like animals..." she blushed at this and shook her head, "Um, that is...let me change the subject. No, I am not offended by that, though the people who lived on the moon of my homeworld would."

"I... see." He began to boil the dogs,"Well, uh, you want one?" He began to blush Darn it, she is cute!

Cosmo nodded and took one in her hand and took a small bite. She smiled and let out a little burp, "You're right. It is a little spicy. Though, I never saw Sonic eat one."

"..." Tails thought for a moment,"Oh." He said with a frown,"I see." He tapped a finger on the desk,"Sonic?" He called out,"Wanna try something new?" He looked at Cosmo,"I'll explain later."

Cosmo smiled and nodded, walking away with the dog in hand.

Sonic raced by a few seconds later, "Yeah?"

Tails handed him the chili dog,"Try this."

Sonic took the chili dog in hand. He remembered the nice hot dog that he had that one day when he was constantly running thanks to Eggman's cup. Eating it quickly, he opened his eyes and felt a euphoria, his eyes were mesmerized by the taste

"Savor it, Sonic, it is your destiny." Tails whispered.

Sonic, with eyes wide in euphoria, nodded as he took his next bite.

Tails grinned,"Good."

-------

Amy walked down the hall,"I guess I should apologize for threatening the little guy... this is probably a wake-up call for me-" She then heard a portal opening. She spun around, hammer in hand before several vines wrapped around her,"Sonic, hel-"

---------

A shadowy figure watched Knuckles within the Master Emerald chamber.

Knuckles lightly snored, resting next to the gem. Then he opened his eye a little, turning to the direction of the footsteps. Getting up, he asked, "You aren't one of the crew. Your feet sound different. Who are you?"

"Very observant, Knuckles." The figure moved into sight, revealing a white echidna with black eyes staring at him. A long black cape covered his body.

"A...another Echidna?" Knuckles asked as he got up. For a moment, he looked over his shoulder to the Master Emerald. A calm feeling in his heart told him that Tikal was still inside. Turning back he asked, "How? I'm the only one I've ever seen."

As Knuckles asked this, he stepped back and clenched his white gloves tight, showing his spikes.

"In this universe, yes." The other echidna said, a smirk coming across his face,"But others exist on alternate realities. For example, in my reality, our race is filled with zealots who hid in Echidnaopolis." He walked towards the Master Emerald,"I am Dr. Finitevus.

Knuckled jumped in front of him and held out his hand, "They also seem very arrogant if they name their own city after their whole species. But I don't know how your Knuckles act, f you have one, but I don't let very many animals come close to the Master Emerald unless I trust them."

Dr. Finitevus closed his eyes with a smile, lowering his hand,"Well, my Knuckles was far more of a warrior. Hot-headed, yes, but unlike you, he was more successful in defeating people like me." He opened his eyes again,"Tell me, how does it feel to be worthless?"

"Worthless?" Knuckles asked, eyes narrowing, "I am not worthless! I am a warrior too!"

"Oh please." Dr. Finitevus said,"It's funny seeing Tails give you that little pep talk when in reality you've never won a fight in such a long time." HE touched a railing,"Sonic is always there to be the brave hero, while you are just cannon fodder. All of you are, really."

Knuckles just watched him, eyes trained on him with precision and determination. He looked at Fintecvious touched the railing, before looking back at him, "What do you mean that they are cannon fodder? We're more important than that." He shook his head, trying to get images of his past losses out of his head.

Finitevus shook his head,"Are you? Are you more important? That brat is more important than you are right now." He looked at Knuckles, "That is the purpose of this experiment."

Knuckles walked around Fintevious, keeping him in sight and protecting his gem.

"I want to see just how much that hedgehog cares about people other than that kid." Dr. Finitevus said.

--------

Tails' ears perked up to the sound of screaming. He then flew off, before Cosmo came into view, running from some vines, "Cosmo!" He grabbed her and activated the flame shield. Each vine struck the shield with a horrifying shriek.

Cosmo held Tails close as the fox whispered in her ear, "Stay close to me. I don't want the shield to burn you as well."

Cosmo gasped, and then wrapped her arms around Tail's neck. Nodding softly, she said, "Thak you Tails. Those things took Cream and Cheese. Luckily they were asleep."

Tails nodded,"They don't need any more trauma..." He whispered. He backed up and sped off, his tails spinning as fast as they could.

-------

"You can't stop what's happening as long as I'm in this room with you." Dr. Finitevus said,"Once she takes them, she will help in the creation of Sonic's dark transformation."

"So that's what you two are after. You're both insane," Knuckles said, growling a little. His eyes narrowed and then said, "Problem with your assumption though: You think that you can keep me here!" he then launched out with a right hook aimed at the face.

Dr. Finitevus threw up a small ring portal in front of Knuckle's fist. He threw up another one, sending that same fist into Knuckle's stomach,"Yes, I can keep you here. And it isn't two of us..."

-------

Tails looked around the ship, before the sound of "Laser!" Entered his ears. A large beam blasted Tails out of his shield and sent him and Cosmo flying back. He slowly got up, noticing a black creature walking toward him. He had red stripes on his body. Black sclera surrounded golden eyes.

Tails winced,"A Shadow-knockoff?" He asked.

"Hmph," the creature looked at him,"Name's Eclipse. Not that it'll matter much to you in a bit." He held his hand out,"You're a very tricky fox, surprisingly. How you ended up being one of the hardest ones to capture I don't know."

Tails snarled,"You're not getting anyone else!"

"I beg to differ..." Eclipse rushed at him.

--------

Knuckles let out a grunt as his own fist hit him in the gut hard. Wheezing a little from being winded, he jumped to the side of a wall to climb up it, "There are more of your little party? Where are they?!" he asked before leaping off the wall to glide and send a right hook into Fintevius face.

---------------------

Matching Knuckles right fist, another gloved hand punched Eclipse as he charged at Tails. Frowning, and glaring daggers at him, was Shadow, "Where... is... SHE?" he asked wincing a little in pain.

"Shadow!?" Tails said, holding Cosmo behind him.

Eclipse stood there, holding his cheek with a smile,"Hello, Shadow." He looked at him,"I'm afraid I can't tell you right now. I'm on a mission here. Now, if I so happen to kill you along the way, that would be great, but I prefer to savor my meals." He grinned.

"Do you know this guy?" Tails asked.

----------

Finitevus held up another ring that warped Knuckles to behind him,"Now now, don't try to spoil things Knuckles."

Knuckles let out a grunt as he spun around in the air and landed on his bottom. Shaking his head he ran out with three straight punches, growling in frustration as each of his hits went into a portal and ended up almost hitting him. The last blow hit him in the face, knocking him back and cutting his bottom lip, "I don't know-"

------------------------------------

"Who he is. But I saw him attacking you and that girl," Shadow said, charging up a dim spear, "And I assumed that he might know where Rouge went since the plants followed him." he then stepped in front of Tails and leaped up.

"Chaos SPEAR!" he shouted, throwing three dim spears at Eclipse. Landing on the ground he looked at the energy as it glowed dimly.

Eclipse laughed as the spear hit him,"Useless."

Tails gasped,"He's weakening you!"

"Indeed. I was built to fight you, Shadow the Hedgehog." Eclipse said, running towards him and punching him in the face.

--------------

Finitevus walked towards him,"It's useless. You are weak, Knuckles."

"I'm-"

-----------------------------------

"Not going to be taken down by this man," Shadow said, racing out on his shoes. Leaping up, he tried a mid-air roundhouse into the face. "If you were built to beat me, then your creator is going to have a lot of work ahead of him. Now, where is she!"

Tails shook his head, "He isn't-"

--------------------------------------

"-going to win this way," Fintevus said, smirking as he stood behind Knuckles as he collapsed to the ground panting.

Knuckles looked up at Finteavus, narrowing his eyes. Then tears began to fill his lids as he said, "Y-you're right!" he cried. Putting his head down to the ground, he began to beat it as he cried, "I'm weak! I'm pathetic! Compared to Sonic, I'm just the meat shield. Someone who distracts the bigger threat while waiting for the big hero!"

Whimpers came from his throat, "I-I always thought I was good at this. I thought I was good at something. But I'm not, am I. I'm a failure. A stupid meathead failure who loses and never keeps the Emerald safe."

Dr. Finitevus looked surprised at this,"Oh my goodness... you're actually crying." He chuckled as he came closer.

"I'm a naive loser who doesn't deserve an ounce of respect," Knuckles pounded the ground some more, "And no one does!"

Knuckles watched as the shadow came over him, "But you know what I know?" he asked, before turning around and quickly giving Finteveaus an uppercut into the face, "We echidnas seem to be naturally naive."

------------------------------

Shadow was blown back by one of Eclipse's punches. Bruises littered his frame as he continued to stand in front of the young couple. Panting, he tried to get back up, wincing from the pain, "You're good. I'm impressed," he said with a smirk. Taking a look back at the couple, he gave a little nod, trying to convince them to leave.

Tails looked at Shadow, and frowned,"Don't die again." He grabbed Cosmo and ran off towards the docking bay.

He neared one of the Tornadoes, "I'm going to put into one of these, then I'm going back!"

Cosmo looked at Tails, "But Tails, do you really think you can beat him?"

"..." Tails smiled and gave a thumbs-up, "Of course!:

Cosmo smiled admiringly at his confidence. Then she looked at him, "You don't die either. I can't stand to-"

---------------------------

"Lose here, not now," Knuckles said, shaking his head as he walked back to the master emerald, "Now, are you going to stand down, or am I going to have to take you down."

Dr. Finitevus wiped some blood from his cheek,"I'm impressed. So you don't need the hedgehog to save you." He smirked,"Well, I see no reason to keep bothering you, my job here is almost done."

"Oh no, you aren't leaving that easy!" Knuckles said, running at him with a right cross.

Dr. Finitevus smirked as he threw a ring portal behind him,"Yes, I am." He quickly left-.

---------

Tails flew down the hall where Shadow was,"Where's Sonic where you nee-"

Shadow was thrown down in front of him by a huge armored brute,"Shadow!" Tails shouted.

Eclipse's voice came from the brute,"Don't worry, he's not dead... but you'll soon be."

Shadow weakly looked up and groaned, "R-run you..."

Tails stood next to him," Sorry, but no!"

The large monster growled,"My, how foolishly brave of you!" He slammed his fist down on the ground where Tails was.

Tails were, however, flying above Eclipse with Shadow in hand,"Too slow?"

Shadow was too far gone to even get a small quip in and fainted. Behind the monster, a blue blur struck him from behind before skidding o a halt in front of Tails, "Sorry I was late Tails." he smirked. "Hey. what happened to Shadow?"

"That guy weakens him apparently." Tails said, pointing to Eclipse," Also he's a jerk." He then frowned,"And where were you anyway!?"

Eclipse snarled,"I was hoping not to deal with you." He winced,"I need to leave..." He pulled out a ring and threw it into the air before going through it with four little creatures following him.

"Hey you know me,"Sonic said with a shrug, "A hero like me always arrives late and when I need to." there was a small confident chuckle in his voice when he said it. Looking back a the portal, he asked, "They can do that?"

"Yes, they can," Knuckles said, walking in and shrugging off his pain with a twirl of his arm.

"Knuckles-"

"Where were you?" Knuckles asked.

"You know ar-"

"No," Knuckles shouted, pointing his finger against his chest, "You don't get to pull that off this time. We needed you. We needed you to help stop whatever it was that was kidnapping our friends and you weren't there! Like you always do! You run around and let us handle the emergency and wait until we are almost dead before you come in!"

"Hey. I'm not the guy who sticks around. You know that! This place has been suffocating me since we came here," Sonic argued back.

"And where has that gotten us? We're missing several friends, that bastard is knocked out," Knuckles pointed to Shadow.

"F-u...ck you," Shadow moaned.

"And we only have Tails and Cosmo. What do you have to say for yourself," Knuckles asked.

"You haven't been doing much either," Sonic said calmly. "And besides, Tails can find them. We just need to-"

"Pray that we can get there. Because I have a feeling they are in trouble," Knuckles said. "At least Cosmo is safe."

Tails let out a sigh,"Can you two save the arguing until we figure out how to save everyone!?" He ran to a console on the wall,"Cosmo, I think they're gone..." He frowned,"Cosmo?"

A familiar voice to Tails spoke,"I'm afraid she can't come to the phone right now. Would you like to leave a message?"

"Starline!" Tails snarled.

Starline's voice crackled,"... No... you can't possibly have followed me! No matter, I've done my job here." He left with a click.

"Ok, who was that?" asked Sonic.

Knuckles shook his head, "Probably related to that white Echidna I fought earlier."

Tails paled and then stared at Knuckles,"Knux... was his name Dr. Finitevus?"

"Yes," Knuckles said, looking at Tail confused, "But how did you know?

Tails turned away with a sigh,"Okay, long story short, I'm not your Tails. I'm a different Tails stuck in your Tails' body. I didn't tell you this before because this is only my second time doing this multiversal body transferring thing, and the last thing you guys needed was an additional headache." He sighed,"And the last thing I expected was getting attacked by multiversal threats." He looked at Knuckles," Dr. Finitevus is from my universe. He manipulated my Knuckles into becoming a god known as Enerjak. As for Dr. Starline and Eclipse? Those I don't know! I met Starline in a previous universe, but I have no idea who he is or where he came from! All I know is that he's evil enough to want to destroy an island with a floating city!"

"So summing up, we are dealing with a bunch of jerks," Sonic said.

Knuckles looked at Tails, "In your world, Enerjak was real? But he was just a legend."

"So why does he want our friends?" asked Sonic.

"So was Chaos." Tails pointed out. He crossed his arms and frowned,"I don't know why they want our friends."

Chris' voice came over the intercom,"Uh, guys, there are vines covering my door."

Tails clicked it off,"Good, the kid's safe." He looked at Sonic,"Did any of those vines come after you?"

Sonic could only shake his head.

Tails frowned,"It's probably to get to you, Sonic." Tails frowned,"Finitevus just wanted to mess with Knuckles in particular, Eclipse was meant to slow down Shadow... and I was too much of a hassle for them to nab." He said with a slight smirk,"Of course, now we need to actually get to them. If I only knew how!"

Then a ring portal opened up near them, showing a lush green forest as a female voice said,"Over here!"

"Oh look, convenient ring portal." Tails said.

"Right, let's do this!" Sonic said, racing ahead in a blur.

Knuckles looked at the fallen Shadow, turned, and made his way to move. A gloved hand stopped him, "I'm going."

"You're hurt Shadow," Knuckles said.

"I'm going," Shadow said with a growl as he walked away.

Tails looked at Knuckles,"Yeah, I doubt you could stop him." He smiled as he flew through the ring.

Knuckles rolled his eyes, "What is with speedsters and being hard headed."

-------------------------

Nicole woke up and was taken outside by Amy, Mina, and a yellow cat by the name of Honey. The three traveled through the city of New Mobotropolis. They began to shop for friends and enjoy the various sights. Nicole happily tried out the new attires programmed by Honey to look pretty.

They also visited some food courts to try out the latest foods before going to a small game store to try out some games and play a dnd session with some geeks. They then walked through the park talking to each other and watching as the Tails from that world was leaving an electronics store with bags of equipment.

Mina then took them out to Karaoke, singing and dancing together for most of the rest of the afternoon.

--------------------------------------

Sonic ran alone, his mind thinking about what Knuckles said. The words played out again and again, with the emphasis on his failure to save his friends getting louder and louder. Shaking his head, he ran on.

Knuckles frowned, "Any ideas on how to track them?"

Tails took out a small device and looked it over,"I'm not sure. Did this version of me manage to give you all trackers?"

Blaze the Cat looked over Tails' shoulder,"Perhaps we should go to that large structure to the north?"

"Good idea, Blaze." Tails said.

...

"Blaze!?" Tails shouted, almost dropping his tool.

"Hello, Tails." Blaze said with a little wave,"Sonic just kind of... ran by me."

"Yeah, this version of Sonic does that." Tails said.

"... Version?" Blaze asked.

"I'll explain in a bit." Tails muttered.

Knuckles climbed to a high tree as Tails and Blaze asked, not noticing the purple cat in the light purple uniform talking. After climbing the high tree, he saw a building in the distance. Narrowing his eyes and nodding, he jumped and glided back down, "Tails, I think I saw-who is that?" he asked.

"So, you are a Tails who knows me in another Tails' body and I'm currently in a universe where Sonic doesn't know me yet." Blaze said.

"Pretty much." Tails sighed,"Look, I know it's odd..." He then noticed Knuckles,"Oh, this is Blaze, she's a friend. What are you doing here anyway?"

Blaze waved slowly to Knuckles,"I'm going after someone who stole one of my Sol Emeralds."

"That happens a lot, doesn't it?" Tails asked.

"I'm trying to get a better security system," Blaze muttered, holding her arm.

Knuckles rolled his eyes and crossed his arms, "When you find one, let me know. It would help me greatly."

Shadow stood on a tree branch, watching the conversation below. As he brooded in the shadows of the trees, he sighed and rubbed his arm. Looking at the bruise, he frowned, still thinking of Eclipse and of Rouge. He then leaned back, waiting and thinking.

"Oh, you are also a guardian of the emeralds?" Blaze asked.

"Oh, yeah, you've never officially met him, have you?" Tails muttered,"That's so weird..."

Knuckles nodded, "Guardian of the Master Emerald. What are Sol Emeralds?"

"They are much like your Chaos Emeralds. Seven of them. If I don't get them back, my world dies."

"Then we should hurry," Knuckles said, turning around and looking back, "Any idea what is that building?"

Shadow looked down and asked, "Your bigger question should be if this is still our world or another."

"Surprised you were listening and trusting," Knuckles said.

"She's the only one who was already here," Shadow said. " And right now I need someone who can help."

Knuckles sighed, and nodded, "Right."

"And besides...that fox trusts her," Shadow said.

Blaze frowned,"As far as I know, we appear to be in your world." She looked down at the ground, noticing several tree roots covering the ground,"I can't run as fast if the ground is wood, my fire powers would burn it up."

------

Tails railgrinded on the tree roots, frowning,"We're getting closer to that large palace up ahead. And Sonic's not here for some reason...

Shadow grinded alongside Tails, narrowing his eyes. He tried to ignore the look of fear on Rouge's face or the creeping feeling of failure that trailed along his spines. Instead, he pushed ahead, allowing himself to grind on the roots. Looking back he watched as Blaze found her own way to travel. Knuckles, on the other hand, had to comment, "You never noticed, but he tends to do that in this world. Always leaving on ahead and leaving us to deal with the hard problems until he can beat them when we're almost dead. He's very unreliable."

Blaze was hovering in the air on her flames,"Indeed?"

Tails frowned,"I at least expect him to be there before us. He is supposed to be the fastest thing alive."

Blaze looked at Tails,"Perhaps something is keeping him?"

Knuckles bit his lip in anger, holding back another insult in his head. Instead, he looked up ahead at Shadow as he grinded just up ahead of them, "Are you alright? You are a little slow."

"I'm fine!" Shadow lied, feeling the pain in his legs and arm. The battle wounds still stinging as he skated, This is nothing. It's nothing. I'm fine.

Maria coughed a little getting to her knees. Shadow walked up to her and placed his hand on her back, "A-are you ok?"

She smiled a little, wiping her lips, "I'm fine Shadow. This is nothing really."

"Just focus on the mission."

"You hedgehogs!" Knuckles growled before looking to Blaze, "So, do you know why you had been chosen? I just remember that I had o protect the emeralds."

"As far as I know, the Sol Emeralds were guarded by the royal family. My mother before me guarded these emeralds, like her mother before her." Blaze said.

----------------------------------------------------

Sonic ran through the woods, leaping to the trees, and then grinded along the branches to increase his speed. For a moment, he began to remember his and Knuckles' argument. With a frown, he said, "He doesn't get it." Looking ahead at the pseudo-track that lay before him, he said, "Besides, no time o have a crisis! Time for saving people now!" he then ran ahead, arms behind him as he ran along the ground and rolled into a ball.

Using his spindash, he cut into a log, rolled through the hole, and then ran up a tree at the end. He then spun around at the top, launching himself at the next three trees before landing and running towards the building in the distance, "Hey guys!" he shouted as he ran in.

Tails looked back at Sonic,"Hey, welcome to the party! That's Blaze up there, by the way."

Sonic waved hi to Blaze as she landed on the ground in front of him. Turning to look back at Shadow, he raised a finger to ask but Shadow glared back before leaning against the tree. Knuckles ignored him as he walked to the black hedgehog. Sonic then turned to look at Tails, "So, do we split up, or do I get to scout ahead?"

"We're not splitting up." Tails said with a frown,"We need to stick together just in case Starline, Dr. F, or whoever's behind this sends something else after us!" He looked at Sonic,"There's a high chance this person's after you specifically. What he or she has against you, I don't know unless it's Dr. Eggman."

"Personally, I hate the fact that he seems to ruin my plans, or goes near an emerald without telling me," An all too familiar voice said.

Blaze's hand burst into flames, while Tails snarled,"Speak of the Eggman. Are you behind any of this?"

Eggman narrowed his eyes through his goggles and shook his head, "Now Tails, think about it. Why would I capture one of my own teammates? I am just as curious as you are. I even have some of my badniks look through it to see for an entrance. And tell your cat friend to turn it off! It's hot enough around here.

Blaze glared at him some more.

"Oh, really, Doc?" Tails snapped at him,"You just happen to show up here, ready to do whatever to help us?"

"Well of course!" Eggman said with a laugh. "Am I not the type of guy who would offer help when it benefits me?"

"You have the last part right," Sonic snarked.

"... Do you know how to get into that palace." Tails said,"And if you turn out to be a traitor, so help me, I will punch you in the face so many times you'll gain Fennecaphobia."

Two robots in the background and away from the scary hedgehog and the scary cat whispered, "Is that even a thing?"

"Also, stay five feet away from me, and we'll be fine." Tails growled, before storming off towards the palace.

"With pleasure," Eggman said floating ahead as he used a locator.

Knuckles took a few steps back to Shadow and walked with him. Looking at some nearby leaves, he grabbed some and began to squeeze it into a juice with his bear hand, "Shadow, stop."

"In case you didn't-" Shadow gave a small yelp and a shiver as Knuckles rubbed some of the salves on his limbs. "What?"

"You were injured, and you needed help. So I decided to be nice," Knuckles said, before turning around to follow the little band into the palace. "And don't thank me. I know you aren't one to say it."

Shadow looked down at the healing leaves as he felt less pain in his body, and then turned to look back at Knuckles. Taking a deep breath, he stood up and continued to walk. He looked around the palace, interested in the greenery and the way that the place seemed fuzed with the natural surroundings. It was if the plants were the building and never disturbing the natural area around them.

"She's that worth it?" asked Knuckles disbelieving.

"Huh?"

"That bat girl." Knuckles asked. "She is worth that much to you? I know why we would move the heavens for our friends, but you never seem the kind that would give live for a friend."

"Please Shadow, give them a chance to be happy."

"We must give our lives to combat them. Thank you for helping Shadow"

Shadow looked at Knuckles with no emotion as he asked, "I do what I do to respect the memories of those in the past. If I just happen to help others, then fine."

Knuckles nodded, "So she is like that."

"What?" Shadow asked.

"Nothing, just you spew the same reasons I say when I help them," Knuckles snarked.

"He's rubbing off on you," Shadow said, frowning before walking ahead.

Knuckles paused, "Did...did...you just quip?"

"I remarked, there is a difference," Shadow said.

Sonic tapped his feet as he followed, grumbling to himself.

Tails stepped back with him,"Too slow for you?"

"Ya think?"

"Look, when we get there, I promise I'll let you run all you want." Tails said with a chuckle.

Blaze frowned at Eggman leading them, before looking at Shadow,"So willing to work with your enemies to save your friends. Hm." She smiled to herself.

Shadow looked up at her and frowned.

She blinked a few times before looking away with a blush,"I was staring..."

They soon arrived at a large golden palace covered in tree branches and roots. At the front entrance was a certain platypus in a purple shirt. He smiled at them,"Ah, our esteemed guests have arrived." He bowed,"And they brought dear Dr. Eggman as well! I am Dr. Starline, your introduction to our little soiree for the evening."

"Soiree?" asked Eggman as he looked at Starline.

Sonic playfully did a talking hand with a bored look, "Where are they?"

"I will take you to them, don't worry Sonic." Starline indicated behind him,"We have some guests for your other friends to meet first. Not you, Doctor, you are special." He smiled at Eggman.

"Oh, I am special, why thank you," Eggman said with a smile. "Now to be sure...they won't be harmed too much?"

Shadow looked at Knuckles as if waiting for a cue to fight.

Tails stared at Eggman when he said that, Did this Eggman lose his spine or something?

Blaze blinked several times, not believing what she heard.

Starline smirked,"Oh, they'll be just fine." He turned,"Follow me." He walked forward,"This isn't a palace, but an entryway towards a tunnel leading into the center of this planet."

Tails looked at him,"Wait, the core!?"

"This is no normal planet, Tails, it is artificial, created by a Seedrian as a way to transport herself from place to place. " Starline explained,"Ah, the first big room is coming."

"What's inside?" asked Sonic

"A duel between two titans." Starline opened the door.

Tails gasped. It was a large square room with another door at the end. Four pillars dotted the corners of the wooden room. The floor was circular as if it was a tree. On top of one pillar was Eclipse, smiling down at them. Leaning on another was a large purple walrus with a beard and wearing a parka.

Tails looked at the walrus,"An aged Rotor?"

The walrus scoffed,"I am not my son, boy. He has strayed too far from what I wanted him to be."

Tails frowned,"I'm sorry, a jerk version of Rotor's dad."

"What, you wanted him to be a penguin?" asked Sonic, and then looked at him, "Or are you upset at him for being something else."

Shadow looked at Eclipse and stepped forward. Knuckles put his hand out and looked at him with a subtle look. Shadow pulled away and nodded before saying, "Don't slow me down."

Knuckles smirked as he stepped out, "Speak for yourself. I'll help after I take him down."

The walrus growled at Sonic for a second.

Starline laughed as he led the others to the other door,"Have fun!"

"Oh this is going to be fun," Sonic said, looking at the other two. Smiling, he tried not to tell them not to die, just letting his confidence in them take over.

Starline lead them down another hallway towards another door,"And through this door, is-"

The door burst down, revealing a large red robot,"Dr. Eggman!" a female voice said, causing the robot to bow,"My lord and master."

Starline sighed,"Couldn't have waited, could you?"

"And you are?" Eggman smiled

"Oh, excuse me sir, I didn't introduce myself, I am Thunderbolt, your most loyal, most wonderful, most effectiv-"

Starline coughed,"Ahem!"

Thunderbolt leaned down at him,"What!? I am prostrating myself before my lord and master!"

"As much as I like prostrating before the most glorious doctor in the world, we have a job to do," Starline said.

Tails stared at Blaze and pointed to this with a slackjawed expression.

Blaze shook her head, "I don't get fanboys."

"Are they gonna start a con?" asked Sonic.

"ONE DAY!" Starline shouted, before straightening himself out,"Anyway, can you take care of the cat, I know it's last minute, but she popped out of nowhere, so..."

Thunderbolt looked at Blaze,"Of course!" She held out her hand at Blaze, firing a large thunderball.

Tails grabbed Blaze and flew out of the way,"I'm going to help you!"

Blaze looked up at him,"You're not going with Sonic?"

"You'll burn the ground if you fight, you need my help more. Besides, we never fought together!"

Blaze paused, thought, began to think, and then said, "That's weird we haven't fought together."

Starline led Sonic and Eggman(Plus his two lackeys, who were now relieved to be rid of the scary cat and hedgehog) out of that situation,"And finally, this." He led them to a large road that led downwards with several spiky tree branches in the middle of it,"Down there is the core, where you'll find your friends. But I can't have you do this alone. Metal Sonic?"

"Metal Sonic?" the lackey shouted, scared out of their robo-minds.

Eggman smiled as he saw Metal begin to slowly lower from the ceiling.

Sonic merely crossed his arm cockily and shook his head.

Starline snapped his fingers,"I'm itching to watch you have a race with this one. Me and the good Doctor will watch from a safe room. Refreshments are available"

Metal landed and wagged his finger at Sonic.

Eggman laughed and smiled at Starline, "Oh you do know me, don't you?"

"Of course! I admire you greatly!" Starline said with a wide grin. He began to lead Eggman to a lavish room with a couch and several screens in front of it.

--------

Shadow raced out towards Eclipse, running up the pillar and then jumping to perform a roundhouse kick at his head. While below, Knuckles walked to the big walrus and performed an uppercut to his jaw.

The walrus took a step back and adjusted his jaw before punching at Knuckles

Eclipse took a step back,"You know how this is going to end, Shadow." He held up his hand, and a little creature came to him,"Sonic Cannon!" His left arm became a cannon that fired an ear-shattering sound wave at Shadow.

Knuckles blocked the fist with his own, causing shockwaves to erupt. Shadow collapsed to his knees as the soundwaves hit him. Shaking his head, he got up, woozily.

Eclipse ran up and kicked Shadow in the stomach,"It's useless to fight with me, Shadow! Give up."

The walrus, Tundra, uppercut Knuckles.

Shadow fought back the urge to vomit from the punch to the gut. getting up, he went for three hooks aimed at Eclipse's chest and stomach, "I DON'T RUN!" he growled, ignoring the pain and the weakening feeling he was experiencing. Shaking his head, he stepped back, unable to see if his hits struck.

Knuckles wiped his lips and then slammed the ground with his fist.

Tundra stood his ground, punching his fists together, creating ice around his hands before punching at Knuckles.

"Laser!" Another creature attached itself to Eclipse’s right arm and then he blasted Shadow.

"Ice? That's just-OOF!" Knuckles shouted as he was knocked back with two blows to the chest.

Shadow jumped to the side and raced out at Eclipse. Jumping up he tried for a jump kick.

Tundra began to breathe in, before exhaling a blast of cold at Knuckles.

"Armor!" Another creature flew to Eclipse's body, creating a suit of blackened armor to deflect Shadow's kick.

Shadow delivered a few blows into the armor, wincing with each attack. Knuckles began to take a knee, shivering from the cold air as it hit him.

Eclipse kicked Shadow in the stomach,"You're going to lose, Shadow."

Tundra ran over and punched Knuckles.

Shadow looked up at him struggling to get back up. Saying nothing, he simply began to walk forward. Eclipse sighed and then roundhoused him off the pillar, "Foolish little coward. Suicide is never the right thing."

Shadow let out a grunt as he was flung back towards the ground and into Knuckles, sending them both flying back into the wall. After a few moments of silence, the two began to slowly get back onto their feet, with Knuckles helping Shadow up by his shoulder. Turning to look at the black hedgehog, Knuckles said with a grunt, "They are a little more than I expected."

"He's right, every time I get near him, I get weak," Shadow groaned and looked back towards his opponent as he lowered himself to the ground, "If I could break the armor..."

"Same boat, the walrus is too strong, I can't break through," Knuckles said, shaking his head. " I need your power, and you need mine."

"They aren't stupid," Shadow remarked, "The moment we try to switch they'll switch back before we can get a hit in."

"So," Knuckles said, "You got the brains, and I got the tricks. I made the hedgehog's life a living hell when we first met with every trick in the book."

"Did you now," Shadow chuckled, "After we're done here, you'll have to share your war stories."

Knuckles smirked as he stood up to his full height and held out his fist, "I'll even buy ya a drink, Mate."

"I'm trusting you to keep me covered," Shadow said, holding out his fist, "So don't slow me down."

"And you don’t fail me," Knuckles said, performing a fist bump

Shadow broke off from the fist bump and skated towards Eclipse, jumping out of the way as Knuckles slammed the ground behind him to cause a small earthquake. While leaping out of the air, Shadow spun for a few moments and threw chaos spears at Tundra, cutting into his sides.

While Eclipse prepared a laser, he was sucker punched by a fist leading into an uppercut by Knuckles. He then leaped onto the side of a wall, climbing up it, and then launched himself to the falling Shadow to grab his hand in mid glide. Spinning around, he threw Shadow at Tundra, watching as his projectile turned himself into a spindash and striking into Tundra's back. Bouncing back into Knuckles’ open hand, he did the strike twice before landing on the other side.

Shadow looked up to watch as Knuckles did a spinning dive into Eclipse’s stomach, landing on the other side of the room. Looking back up, he looked over Eclipse's shoulder and back at Shadow. There were no words uttered, just a cocky question of, "Tired yet, Captain Emo?"

Shadow shot back with a grin that said, "Just getting started, 2nd best."

Eclipse began snarling as his body began to mutate into a more monstrous form. With a roar, he ran towards Knuckles.

Tundra breathed heavily,"That... was dirty..."

"Don't whine just because you fought of the coolest ones here," Shadow said as skated towards Tundra, dodging some of the icicles that were blown his way. One of his quick moves got caught by the icicles and froze it still. Looking up, he watched as Tundra stepped over and slammed both his fists into his shoulders. Shadow let out a grunt of pain and watched as he tried to hammer his shoulders again. Shadow blocked the hit and smirked, "Losing strength?" he asked, panting a little as he pushed the shoulder off and [unched Tundra hard in the stomach hard.

Breaking out of the trap by chopping it, he jumped with a rising Spin attack, and then in mid-air, he threw a few chaos spears into his back.

Knuckles thumbed his nose, looking at the monstrous form. Smiling cockily, he rolled ino a ball towards the monster form, and then sprang up with a double punch straight into the groin. He then spun around to deliver another hard right into the groin, "The male's greatest design flaw."

Tundra groaned as he toppled over.

Eclipse's eyes widened as he held himself,"Ow..." before toppling over.

Shadow and Knuckles landed away from their opponents. The two looked at each other and gave each other a fist bump before spinning around, back to each other, and leaning up against each other with arms crossed.

--------

Blaze had knocked Thunderbolt into a large circular wooden room. Tails held onto her and flew in to look at the robotic armor,"I can see someone piloting that. If I can get close to it, I could disable the armor!" He then dodged an electrical blast,"If we could survive."

Blaze smirked, "Jus get me close and I could make the metal a little bit hotter. Until then, I'll give you a minute to find your opening." she then ran at the bot, before leaping up into the air and threw a few fireballs at the bot to distract it.

Thunderbolt let out a screech,"You annoying cat!" She grabbed at her.

Tails flew around to her back, noticing some minor machinery in it. He flew towards her.

"I see you!" Thunderbolt spun around with an electrified hand, causing Tails to fly back with a yelp.

Blaze leaped up in front of the hit, and took the hit, screaming in pain from the electricity. As she hit the ground, she twirled in a circle around one of the feet of the bot, tripping it up. Then she rammed a fire kick into the bots Achilles tendon.

This caused the robot to take a knee,"Darn it, why did I make this robot have tendons!?" Thunderbolt said.

"Maybe you're as prone to creating weaknesses as Dr. Eggman?" Tails said with a cock of his head.

"DO NOT INSULT EGGMAN! EVERYTHING HE DOES IS MAGNIFICENT!"

"But his robots do have a lot of weaknesses." Tails said.

"Yeah, they kinda do..." Thunderbolt muttered,"But they are still works of art!"

Blaze jumped in the air with a twirl, letting her rise with a fire tornado, "And you know what they say about art. It's all in the eye of the beholder. And I can tell you have poor taste in art. His, is like if someone with a giant ego made it." she then landed on the back o burn it.

Tails looked at her,"Still working on the one-liners?"

Thunderbolt let out a yell.

Blaze crossed her arms behind her back and looked away with a cute blush, "I... I tried. Marine keeps telling me to get a new book."

"It's okay..." Tails flew up and patted her shoulder.

He noticed steam coming from Thunderbolt's armor,"If we keep hitting her with more flames... she might be forced out of that thing instead."

Blaze smiled, "Just get her attention.”

Tails nodded as he flew up towards her.

Thunderbolt yelled out,"Ah, annoying fox!"

Blaze began to do a figure eight under the bot, causing the flames to slowly increase beneath. After a few dances and moves, she stepped back, "Oh, by the way. Eggman is a complete moron who wouldn't know how to make a good bot.

"WHAT!?" There was an explosion as Tails landed next to Blaze.

Smoke emanated from the robot,"Now we can see what she really looks like!"

A shadowy figure emerged,"So... you want to see what I look like?" She began to laugh. The smoke cleared as it revealed a yellow chinchilla with two cables on her head. She wore an orange shirt with a green furry collar and a pair of grey suspenders.

Tails stared at her for a minute," She's..."

She only came up to Tails' tummy.

"Adorable," Blaze said, sitting down and petting the little rodent, "Excuse me, little girl, are you sure you were old enough to pilot this?

Thunderbolt's eye twitched as she charged with electricity,"Little girl!? I'm 23!"

"23?"

"Yes! I'm just short!" Thunderbolt began to charge even more,"But now that I'm out, I will show you my power!"

"Are you sure you want to do that?" Blaze said.

"OF COURSE!"

"In spite of the fact that you are surrounded by a pyromancer and the most intelligent fox you ever met?"

"Yes!"

Blaze sighed, "Shame, I was hoping I wouldn't have to play, ‘fire cat vs electric mouse.’" she then leaped up to do a roundhouse into the face.

This sent Thunderbolt flying into the wall, knocking her out.

"...I do hope Knuckles and Shadow didn't have an epic battle. I'm not one to be jealous but..."

-------

3...

Metal Sonic revved up next to his organic counterpart

2...

Wind blows between them

1...

Sonic began to peel out as the green light showed on. Racing forward as the road began to spiral down towards the core, he took a moment to look over his shoulder back at Metal. He widened his eyes when he saw how fast the robot began to catch up. Letting out a chuckle, he rolled into a ball to pick up speed and increase his agility. Bouncing up from his roll, he began to grind on the side of the ramps.

Metal went over to his side, black energy coming over him.

"Special attack? Are you sure you want to pull that r just run?" Sonic snarked as he leaped off the rail and began to run, backward. For a few moments, he ran backward and then put his thumb to his nose and make a mocking gesture with his fingers. Turning around, he took off in another quick blur.

Metal sped up, holding his hands out to cover himself in an electrical barrier.

Sonic just raced on, not noticing the barrier

Metal cocked his head. He flew through a thorny pillar.

Sonic then looked behind him, and then jogged back behind metal for a few seconds, "Just wanted to give you a slim hope to think you are winning," he said, before revving up and taking off again in a blur, causing a sonic boom to erupt behind metal

Metal narrowed his eye lights,"... I DO NOT HOPE." He sped forward, yellow electricity surrounding him.

"Ah, so you’re yella aren't you?" Sonic said, running backward. "Ain’t an insult you know. Tails is yellow and he's cute."

Metal turned to him,"IS YELLOW NOT THE COLOR OF SUPER SONIC? THEN I DEFINITELY CONSIDER IT A COMPLIMENT."

"Golden," Sonic corrected while jumping.

Metal broke through the jumped-over barrier.

Sonic ran back, keeping pace with him for a moment, "Personally, I just love it when a guy thinks he can keep up."

"I DO NOT THINK, I CAN!"

"Did you remember to put a comma there? Because it sounds like ya forgot a comma," Sonic said.

"HOW CAN YOU TELL? I AM SPEAKING."

"Yeah and that whole robotic thing you got going there? It makes it sound like you forgot a comma," Sonic mocked, looking over his shoulder at the exit, "And right now." he turned and sped up at the last second, "There's my win. Nice try again!"

After Sonic sped through the exit, two large doors slammed behind him. Metal watched this and narrowed his eye lights,"... NOT AGAIN." He then slammed into the doors.

---------

The room Sonic had entered was pitch black, except for a small light in the distance, where a blue plant girl was overlooking Cosmo's sleeping form.

"Cosmo," Sonic said, seeing Cosmo laying on the bed. Taking a few steps forward, he paused to look around him. Everything was so black that he could bearly see anything else. Shaking his head, he stood his ground and looked at the other plant person in the room, "What are you doing with her?"

"Letting her rest. She's had a rough life in this universe, or so I've heard." The girl ,brushed Cosmo's hair with her fingers. She turned to look at Sonic,"I am Galaxina, and I've been waiting for you, Sonic the Hedgehog."

"Waiting? What do you mean?" asked Sonic.

"You'll see." Galaxina smiled at him,"Would you like to see your friends?"

"Yeah, I would. Where are they?" Sonic said, showing off as much of his confidence as he could.

She snapped her fingers, causing the entire room to light up with glowing green plants.

All of Sonic's friends were stuck in various pillars surrounding the dark green room. Thorny vines were wrapped around their arms and legs, almost fusing them into the pillars. Their eyes were pale white with no signs of irises, and their fur color was slowly greying.

Sonic's eyes widened in horror as he looked at his friends and he gasped. Shaking his head, he raced to each pillar, trying to pull the vines off of them. As his fingers touched the thorns, he winced in pain, feeling the thorns cut into his fingertips and drawing blood. Voice trembling, he said, "What...what are you doing to them?"

------------------------

Eggman watched and pulled back,"What?"

Starline had gotten up,"Oh, she's just unleashing a demon upon this world. If you'll excuse me, I don't want to be here when he gets out."

--------

Galaxina held her hand out,"Put them in their own nightmare world."

Amy's eyes temporarily turned back to normal,"... how many years has it been?"

"Only an hour, dear," Galaxina said. Amy's eyes barely had time to register before going blank again.

Sonic tried to move but was too slow to stop her. Shaking his head, he stepped forward, speaking with a low growl, "Get them out of there. They'll die at this rate." as he spoke, his body began to shake, as traces of black energy began to bleed from his body.

-----------------------

"This is a bad idea. We don't need to torture our opponents for our pleasure. Defeating him is all fine and dandy," Eggman said, standing up, "But this is too cruel for us."

"Too cruel for you, maybe." Starline held up a ring,"But as much as I greatly admire you, I don't always agree with your decisions."

-------

Galaxina smirked,"No... they'll remain alive... just in eternal torment."

"And that's supposed to be better?" asked Sonic, clenching his fists.

"No, it is supposed to be a fitting torture for them." Galaxina snapped.

"They did nothing to you..." Sonic said calmly, his quills beginning to darken, the area around him coming colder and colder. The very life around him was begging to tremble and die as he glared pupilless eyes at Galaxia, all sense of enjoyment gone from his eyes.

"That's right... feel the rage." Galaxina said.

She would find herself on the outside of the room, with Sonic's elbow deep in her stomach. He then stepped to the side in a blink of darkness to deliver a roundhouse into her back to send her back into the room, leaving a trench in the ground, "Is his what you really want?"

Galaxina coughed as she got up. She gave a sad smile,"Yes... kill me..."

"Kill you?" asked Sonic, cocking his head to the side. "You want to die?"

"I killed all the inhabitants of my home universe out of revenge for what they did to my sister, but I felt empty, I felt alone." She frowned,"So kill me... I'm a monster who has no will to live."

He then smiled as he grabbed her neck, "You know what?" he then chuckled evilly, "I think it's far worse to you, to watch..."

"Watch?" She coughed.

"As I destroy everything. I'm tired of letting people like you harm my friends. Of letting people like you free to hurt others again and again. Now," Sonic began to lash the vines to Galaxia, tying her to the wall, slowly strangling her, "You get to watch as I fix this."

He looked behind him at his friends as they were tied up, "I'll remove everything from this universe. Kill everything that might hurt my friends. And when I'm done, you'll see the worse fate than death. The knowledge that you hurt her most of all." Sonic then looked at Cosmo. "She may fear my name from now on. But if it means this world is safe. Just remember, every night she cries for the loss of this universe, the loneliness she feels? It's all because of you. You made your sister suffer."

And with that, he vanished, causing small explosions in the building. Knuckles braced himself as he felt the shaking and quaking around him, "Did you feel that, Shadow?"

"Yeah, something is very wrong..."

Tails winced as he held on to the wall,"What in the-?"

Thunderbolt moaned as she got up,"Uh oh, I'm getting out of dodge!" She grabbed a ring and threw it to the ground to escape.

More explosions are heard and above, Tails could see a small black blur passing by. Before he could react, there was a bright flash of light and he would find himself outside of the temple next to Shadow who was panting. His shoulder was gently shaken by Knuckles as he asked, "Tails, what is going on?"

Tails looked at Knuckles,"I-I'm not sure!"

Blaze looked around,"I saw a black blur pass us by."

There was another explosion, and a figure walked out of the burning building with several bodies in his hand. Throwing the passed-out bodies of the crew to Tails, he looked up at Blaze, Knuckles, and Shadows. With a growl, he said, "You...have sinned against me. You fought me, tried to beat me. I gave you a second chance... Time to remove it."

"..." Knuckles paused and looked back to Shadow and the others. Then he said, "Run."

Before Knuckles could move, he felt three hard blows into his stomach which sent him flying through several trees. Then he looked back at Shadow and Blaze. He narrowed his eyes, and said, "Protect them from you."

"How are you holding up?" asked Shadow to Blaze.

Tails was about to object before he began to feel a pain in his chest,"Not... again..." He panted as his mind imagined Sonic shifting into a robotic figure,"No... not again..." He began to pant.

Blaze looked at Shadow,"I'm fine." She looked at Dark Sonic,"We should be able to knock some sense into him!" She ran at him, bursting into flames.

Shadow smirked, "Good, I'm glad you won't slow me down," he then raced after her.

Sonic glared at them both, looking at their bodies. He could see blackness radiating off their bodies, "Sin...you have both battled a version of me. You are both dangerous." he then charged at them both, grabbed them by the face, and then ran them through several trees. Pulling away, he looked as they both slowly got back up, and then wagged his finger.

Knuckles blinked as he began to regain consciousness, laying flat on his back. In the distance, he could hear the battle between the three fighters. Rising from the group of fallen trees, he groaned in pain as a sharp pain shot up in his arm. Looking down, he saw the limb hanging at his side. Growling, he grabbed the arm, bit into a tree branch, and ten popped the limb back into its socket, "Ancient Walkers damn it all. That was a dumb move."

Panting, he made his way through the fallen trees, keeping his eyes to the sky as fire and light began to collide. Turning around, he saw Tails, "Tails. We need a plan."

Above the tree line, Shadow landed on a tree branch and held himself up. Looking back at Blaze, he said, "If...if you need to rest, best do it now. I can..." he winced, and wavered for a moment, "c-continue." and then he looked up, trying to blink the blurry image away.

"D-damn that fight with Eclipse..."

Blaze panted as she landed on another tree branch,"I don't need to rest... you do." She said, before looking at Dark Sonic,"If I had my Sol Emeralds we might be able to stand more of a chance..."

Tails shook his head,"Sally, is Knuckles going to be alright? The roboticization might be permanent!"

"I..." Shadow reached for his limiters, "am the ultimate life form. I don't need rest. But, I can give you time to find your emeralds." he then removed them, his body becoming surrounded by flames, "two minutes." he then leaped at Dark Sonic.

"Chaos control!" Shadow then began to warp and dance around Sonic, trying to strike at him, watching as each of his blows was being blocked by the world-shaking around them.

Blaze got up,"You're a liar... you know that?" She glared at Dark Sonic, eyes bursting with flame before she leaped forward to knock Dark Sonic on the back of the head.

Knuckles looked at Tails, "Robotization? Tails, what are you talking about? Who is Sally? Tails. We need you now more than ever. I don't know how long those two can last and I'm too weak right now."

"Do we need emeralds? Maybe Super might do. Mecha Sonic'll kill us all if we don't do something!?" Tails screamed,"Knothole, fire, Super Emeralds, help!" He fell into a fetal position, holding his head.

Shadow looked at Blaze as she attacked, "What are you-UGGH!" he groaned as Dark Sonic punched Shadowhard in the stomach, and then roundhoused him out of the sky.

Turning around, he grabbed Blaze's fist, "Naughty kitty," he snarled.

Shadow hit the ground with a loud crash, some of the flames burning his arm. Slowly getting up, he looked back at Knuckles, "K...Knuckles, what's wrong with him?"

"Tails is having a breakdown. So I'm stumped for a plan," Knuckles said watching as Shadow began to walk slowly toward him, "And you-"

"I’m fine!" Shadow denied. "I'll rest after I stop him from killing us all. I'll rest once I'm sure we're all safe, and I'll rest once I and sure that we can see another sunrise! But right now, I'm... still," he slumped to the ground, "Needed."

Blaze was sent flying towards them, skidding along the ground. She slowly got up,"This... is hopeless... we... need to escape."

Tails shook his head,"Hyper. Super Emeralds. Mecha Sonic will kill us all, please, Sally, think of something, Sonic's gonna die!"

Shadow saw from the corner of his eyes, one small red gem. Narrowing his eyes he rolled over to grab it and pull it close. Then he skated towards the others as Dark Sonic began to fly towards them, black tendrils of energy flowing off his body. Closing his eyes, Shadow said, "Chaos..."

An explosion tore through the area, leaving behind a small crater where one hedgehog stood. Slowly rising to his feet, he smirked before looking to the sky, "Think you can run from me? Consider this a little reprieve. Because I'm coming for you all soon..."

------------------------------

Knuckles panted as he looked around the cockpit of the ship, Shadow holding himself up by the side of the wall as he struggled to hold onto the emerald. Looking around, he asked, "Shadow, how did you get-"

"Hohohoho!" Eggman's voice was heard over the comms, "I best start hearing words of gratitude from the lot of you. Thanks to being connected to the Metarex, I happened to have a small supply of those fake emeralds on standby. Plus the real one that our broken Shadow is holding."

"I...didn't need it, Doctor," Shadow said, wincing.

"Sure you didn't, but I take it all the same. Now, unless one of you has a new plan, we need to start running or escape," Dr. Eggman said. "Because I give it a minute before the hedgehog remembers I still live and will go hunting for me. And currently, all I have planned is to throw these three dumb bots at them plus a few worthless badniks at them!"

"We currently lost our main planner-" Knuckles said.

"I can't think of anything," Chris said, pulling the knocked-out fighters to the med bay

"And Tails is-"

"H-hyper, super emeralds..."

"Is speaking about legends," Knuckles said.

"What legend?" asked Shadow.

Knuckles sighed, "There is a legend, of how the master emerald can lend its great power to the seven servers. By lending its power to the emeralds, it can increase their powers to something better and ‘heighten them to gods.'"

Shadow looked back at Tails, and then to Knuckles, "The fake Emeralds are good for one shot. Send me to the room now."

"What?!" Knuckles said, eyes wide before stepping up close to him, "No! You are badly injured, near death, tired, and weak. We are also using fake emeralds plus one real one. If this doesn’t work, then all of that power I send into you could KILL you!"

"What choice do you have?" Shadow asked.

Knuckles pause, lowered his head, and looked to Blaze and Tails.

Blaze held her arm, and looked away,"I'd do it myself, but I am not connected to those emeralds." She sighed,"It's our only chance, as much as I hate to say it."

Tails shook his head repeatedly,"No, stay away stay away stay away...."

Shadow stepped forward, and patted Tails' head, "You did good. We'll take it from here."

Knuckles looked outside, watching as the bright explosions took place outside, "We need to move, now!"

Shadow nodded as he followed Knuckles deep into the Typhoon’s engine room and stood surrounded by the seven emeralds. Behind him, Knuckles stood in place behind the Master Emerald. his head, Shadow gave a smile to Knuckles and sighed, "See you on the other side, Echidna."

"Meet you there," Knuckles said. "Good luck."

Shadow slowly clenched his fist, "If this doesn't work... any ancestors you want me to punch for you?"

"Pachacamac, Locke, and Dimitri," Knuckles said, "I would have more but I can't think of anything. And if this doesn't work?" he then paused, "I'll tell her."

Shadow smiled and then closed his eyes as he heard Knuckles began to speak.

"The servers are, the seven chaos

The controller serves to unify the chaos.

Chaos is power

Power is enriched by the heart."

Shadow breathed as the seven emeralds glowed, being hit by the glowing light of the master emerald behind them. The master emerald shone seven beams of light into the seven emeralds, making them shine bright enough that they seemed to enlarge to the same size as the master emerald. As they glowed, they began to shine their light onto Shadow.

In Shadow's mind, he thought he saw a hand reaching out, smiling when he saw the white glove.

And then...

The ship exploded. Dark Sonic laughed, standing over the fallen bodies of his foes. Soon other worlds began to fall. Soon he stood alone on his throne, satisfied at his victory while a lovely squirrel princess sat by his side.

The ship exploded, Shadow lay dead, but Tails stood crying over a dead Sonic.

The ship exploded, and Blaze turned into a phoenix

The ship explod...

The ship...

Knuckles closed his eyes as a star exploded before his eyes, and then when his eyes cleared, there was nothing left of Shadow. Knuckles fell to his knees, "No..."

"Times up," Dark Sonic said, flying fist first towards the ship, only to be stopped by a palm, causing a shockwave to wreck across the solar system.

"Fake," Shadow said, his pure white quills shining in the darkness. His emerald eyes flashed in time with his quills as they began to flash the colors of the emeralds.

Dark sonic sneered at this and pulled back to deliver a quick series of kicks, each dodged by Shadow. Hyper Shadow then punched Dark Sonic into the gut, sending him flying through space and through a few asteroids before coming to a stop in a crater. Breathing hard he looked up and said"Fake? You think I'm the fake? HA! Aren't you the fake hedge-"

Dark Sonic paused as he saw Shadow appear before him, only to watch as he vanished behind him. Dark Sonic stepped back in shock, backing up to Shadow, "You are a fake Sonic. You deny everything that makes him Sonic. His compassion, his free will, his heart, love of adventure, belief in others."

Dark Sonic growled as he did a back fist, getting it blocked by Shadow, "Freedom? Trust? Compassion? What did that give us!? Eggman comes back constantly, evil threats after evil threats come for us! We are never safe, not unless I fix this and make everyone realize that they need to fall before me."

"That free will is what makes us alive," Shadow said, dodging another blow, returning it with a hook kick to the face and then a back kick. "That trust in others is what made Sonic, Sonic."

"IT made me weak! IT made me almost lose everything!" Dark Sonic said, slamming his fist into the ground, causing a crater and missing Shadow.

"The real Sonic also valued the power of choice. On the day he told me that he loved adventure above all else, on the day a pink hedgehog reminded me of Maria, I realized something important," Shadow said, watching as Sonic began to attack at a rapid pace, his fist going through his body."There has to be more to life than killing, suffering, and darkness. Otherwise, you’ll be all alone in the world."

DarkSonic screamed as he punched faster and harder, "Shut up! ShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutupShutup! And stop dodging!"

Shadow smirked, "I haven't been dodging for the last two seconds."

Dark Sonic quirked an eyebrow, and then looked at his fist with his eyes widening in horror slowly. His fist was being blocked by Shadow’s index finger. Realization dawned on him as he began to play back the last few blows in his head, seeing that Shadow was merely blocking his hits. Growling, he pulled back and did

"A tornado kick, followed by a hook kick," Shadow thought, before smiling as he said, " I can see your moves, you won't win."

"SEE THIS!" Dark sonic said, going for an uppercut, only to be knocked into the back by Shadow.

"I can see the past, present, and future!" Shadow said, back fisting Sonic through another few asteroids, "I can roll back time! Time is my toy!"

Dark Sonic began to scream in rage as he tied to attack Shadow, each attack causing a shockwave when it was blocked. Turning around, he looked at Hyper Shadow in fear, "N... no."

"I am the ultimate life form. The one created by the Doctor to protect those who are weaker than me to repent for his sins."

"No-please-" Dark Sonic pleaded, "I-I"

"I am SHADOW THE HEDGEHOG! And there is only one being capable of beating me!" Shadow said, flying at Sonic at such a speed, he turned into a rainbow lighting bolt, chaos energy flowing along his body, "And I am bringing him back!"

"STOP!!!!!!" Dark Sonic shouted as he was struck hard in the gut by the lightning bolt, The attack forced Dark Sonic to fly across the solar system in a few laps, before crashing through the hull of the ship and into the cockpit, causing a small crater.

Shadow slowly stood to his feet, panting, the chaos energy leaving his body as he stood. Looking back, he smiled when he saw a set of blue quills rising from the crater. Slowly getting to his feet, Sonic stumbled and walked to his 'brother'. Panting, he rested his arms on Shadow and whispered, "Thanks for the save Shad..."

"No-no problem. Wanna take a break now?" whispered Shadow.

"Breaks goo..."Sonic didn't even finish the sentence as he fainted.

Tails' eyes looked around, noticing the ship around him,"... where... where is everyone?"

Chris, coffee in hand, Walked by Tails, "Everyone is currently in the medical room. Sonic and Shadow are sleeping, while Eggman has taken Rouge back."

"Oh..." Tails got out of bed and walked out of the room,"... I missed a lot..."

"Indeed." Blaze said next to him.

"Blaze?" Tails then felt her hand on his shoulder.

"I'm sorry." She said with a frown.

"Sorry?" asked Tails, looking up at her, "For what?"

"For... whatever happened to cause you to break," Blaze muttered.

Tailseyes widened, and then he sighed. Shaking his head with a soft smile, he said, "No...it's ok. I just...have a lot of issues I need to handle." he said, looking down a little, "And a lot of problems to fix.

Blaze rubbed his head,"I'm certain whatever problems you have, you'll be able to handle it." She smiled.

Tails smiled warmly, "Thank you." he then hugged er tightly.

-----------------------------------------------------------

In Eggman's ship, all was quiet except for the low hum of the lights and the occasional squeak of a wheel from a badnik. Shadow, bandages on his body, walked slowly through the halls only pausing to glare at Bokkun. Having scared the little bot to death, he walked into Rouge's room and stood in the doorway for a moment to watch her sleep. He smiled as he watched her chest slowly rise and fall under her blanket, her lips in a still frame as she slept soundlessly. Moving to her, he sat down and pulled back the cover to show her hand. He then held it tightly, and looked at her with a warm smile. Taking a deep breath, he ran a hand through her white fur, and lowered his head onto her bed.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Knuckles caught a flying bunch of grapes, being thrown from the shadows. Smiling, he said, "Thanks."

"Peace offering," Sonic said, walking to sit with Knuckles at the Master Emerald, chili dog in hand. "For being evil, and...because of what you said."

"Oh?" Knuckles asked, eating a few grapes.

"Look," Sonic sighed, rubbing his head, "I...I'm not one to like sitting still for too long. I like traveling around the world, going from place to place and living life to the fullest. Sure I like having fun with my friends, but I don't think I need to be with ya 24/7, I like going on my own way. Y'know?"

"I think I get it," Knuckles said.

"I'm not you, I can't be stuck protecting one thing for all of my life." Sonic said leaning back, "So when I go, I do it because I know you guys. You have super strength, Tails is a genius, and Amy is... Amy. You guys don't need me to be around all of the time, and you definitely don't need me to be some sort of Deus ex Machina button that is needed to save you all the time. You're awesome all on your own."

"We needed you when you went evil," Knuckles said, before sighing as he ate a few grapes. "Nut maybe you're right, we do need to remember our own strengths once in a while. Trust is a two-way street, and we need to show that you don't need to worry." he then looked his violet eyes at Sonic, "Just...know we would like to know we can rely on you once in a while and you can be there. Ok?"

Sonic laughed as he finished his dog, "Hey, if I mess up again? Feel free to punch me hard."

"I shall aim for your groin instead. The weakest spot I heard," Knuckles laughed, and Sonic laughed in turn.

Blaze turned away,"I still need to search for the Sol Emeralds though... Maybe we'll see each other again." she threw a platinum ring to the side, creating a portal before leaving.

"Wait, where did you-" Tails watched as the portal disappeared,"Huh..."

Nicole then appeared next to him,"Tails, I have decided to forgive you... and apologize for leaving you like that." She sighed,"I understand you were just thinking on your feet, and meant no harm..." She looked around,"... What did I miss?"

Tails laughed,"Nothing... what does Z say I needed to do?"

Nicole held up her hand,"Save Cosmo... not sure what that means."

"I do." Tails ran to where that journal was, and began to write down,"Super Emeralds = Hyper Tails." He smiled at her,"Done." With that, a bright flash came to his eyes.

---------

Tails found himself in a cage, where a rooster bot and a green drill bot were looking at him with wide grins. He looked at his situation, and sighed,"Oh boy..."

Chapter 3: Adventures

Notes:

Warning: The following chapter contains high amounts of silliness. It may be advisable to read while using recreational drugs.

Chapter Text

The rooster bot laughed as he put his wongs on his hips, "WE did it! We got the fox in one go! This is why I am the genius!"

"Genius?" the drill bot grumbled, "But Scratch, I was the one who used the trap!"

"And I used you!" Scratch told his twin brother. "And now we can use and abuse Fox here to get that hedgehog!"

"And then we earn Robotnik's... um... love? Admiration? Respect?" Grounder asked, scratching his head.

"We earn him another promotion and a place on the second place employee of the month award!" Scratch said, "That's all I need!"

"Oh right!" Grounder said.

Tails grinned, "Scratch! Grounder! You guys are so funny!"

"What..." asked Scratch.

Grounder looked up and said, "He said we're funny."

"I know what he said!" Scratch said, slapping him. "We have him hostage and he says we're funny?! What are we doing wrong!"

"I don't know. Maybe we need to look up this handbook on being mean and evil that Robotnik gave us," Grounder said, pulling out the book.

Scratch looked at Grounder, and then to the book, and then to grounder again, and then to the book, "We had a book on being evil... this whole time."

"Yes?"

"And we never used it?" asked Scratch.

"Wel, yeah. I mean, it's so boring and stuff. It's got nothing but tech manuals on making good traps, how not to fall for disguises, let your confidence take you over, how to use your aggressive feelings and let the dark side take over, and how to be clever. I mainly read it for the cute cartoon strips at the end of the chapters," Grounder said, only to hear loud banging against the bars.

Tails sighed as his head lay on the bars, "This is why Sonic always beats them..." He wrapped his tail towards the lock.

"I mean the comics aren't that bad," Grounder said. "No need to hit your head against the bars."

"Grounder, I swear when I get you home I'm gonna-"

"Kill you," a sinister voice said, his shadow glaring on the ground.

Scratch and Grounder gasped, looking at the shadow, and then sighed when they saw Mario. Mario waved hello, only to be booted into a warp zone by a red boot. They gasped again, only to laugh at Kevin, who was then also booted into a warp pipe with a bomb on his back and into the Palace of power. They then looked around for the sound of the voice. And still more, "OVER HERE YA JACKASSES!"

Scratch yelled, "It's the hedgehog!"

"And he has... a nice leather jacket," Grounder said.

Tails' eyes widened,"Scratch, Grounder, run! Run now!" He began to quickly pick the lock with his tail,"That's not Sonic!"

Scratch looked at Tails, "Bah hahaha! You need your eyes checked little fox. Of course, that's Sonic."

"Yeah, quills, mohawk spine, cyclops eyeballs, and sneakers. Of course, that's Sonic," Grounder argued as he looked back, "And now he'll try and-"

"Oh, got you a present," Scourge said, kicking a metal head at their feet.

Coconut's head rolled on the ground for a moment, before looking at the two and saying, "Run."

The two then looked back at Scourge as he walked closer and closer, before screaming bloody (Oily?) murder. Tails could only see the shadows of gears, tubes, wires, and circuits being thrown about and torn from the body. Droplets of oil flew through the air and some of them even hit Tails' face, rolling down his cheek.

After a few minutes, Scourge sat on top of Scratch and Grounder's torn-apart bodies, munching on a chili dog. (A pure evil chili dog, made of EVIL Chili, with an EVIL sausage, with EVIL ketchup and EVIL onions, while on decent bread. I mean, it wasn't bad, just decent, just... ok. It didn't want to be bad, just decent.) "And that is how it's done, Little Fox. You know, I do enjoy scaring five-year-old kits. It's... a hobby of mine."

"You need to get out more," Scratch's head said.

"There are better hobbies, hedgehog," Grounder's head added.

Scrouge kicked their heads, "Shut up, you're dismantled!"

"Oh, we do this all the time. We'll be fine tomorrow," Scratch said. "You know this, Sonic."

"It's Scourge." Scrouge said, "Scourge Hedgehog Ignatius, Theadore!"

"Oh someone is having a mid-life crisis," Grounder said with a giggle.

Scratch sighed, "Robotnik was the same, got himself a pet robot chicken, hired that nephew of his, and tried to get a dark fortress..."

Scourge elbowed them.

Tails had broken out, and then flew to the top of the cage,"It's okay, Scourge, Sonic never totals them for good either." He smiled.

"Thank you, I feel..." he paused, and then looked at Tails with a raised eyebrow, "Wait, before I said it, he acted as he knew me, didn't he?"

"Oh yeah, he was warning us," Grounder said.

"How did he," he then smirked, "Tails, how is Sally? Still, robotized? Still, wanting to kill you? And what about that sexy pedo Koala?

"Yeah, Sal's still roboticized and I've got a restraining order on Barby." Tails said, crossing his arms.

Scourge lightly kicked the bots away and smiled a toothy grin, "Oh, isn't this sweet. You are my Tails again, and in a little boy's body. Good," he said chuckling to himself. "I was hoping to kill you, in any form. After all, my body count has been low since the other dimension."

"Wait wait wait," said a voice.

"What?" Scourge asked, miffed.

"You can't kill an innocent boy child. This is a children's fic. You have to kill and eviscerate something else." the voice said.

"Oh yeah?"

"Yeah, like Tails' favorite teddy bear in that box!" the voice said, pointing to a large box.

"OH boy, can't wait to go and destroy a child's favorite thing!" Scourge said, opening the box... Only to be confronted by a very large grizzly bear with a trucker hat.

"Da, what do youse mean you are gonna wreck a childhood's toy!?" asked Mike, "Hows about I wreck youse?"

"Muther-" Scourge said, looking at you with a pained expression.

As the sounds of beating, car wrecks, and the occasional chicken squawk were heard. Sonic stepped out from the shadows with a megaphone. Smiling he ran to the cage and smiled, "Hey Tails, what's up with the reject from a biker gang?"

"Help!" Scourge screamed.

"Oh, that's an evil version of you from another universe." Tails said, dangling his feet.

"Huh," Sonic said.

Scourge behind them could be seen trying to crawl away from the big ball of violence, only to be pulled back by Mike's hand. From that point on, the only things that could be seen from the ball were signs that read, in no particular order.

"Help

SOS

Save Me, Ian Flynn

Pain! Real Pain!

Get me, Dr. Cox or Dr. McCoy!"

"Neat." Sonic finished, "Wanna grab some chili dogs and tell me how you ended up in this?"

"Okay!" Tails said, hopping down and walking with Sonic.

Mike, still using Scourge as a paddle ball, yawned a little, "You know, turning you into a pinball is fun and all, but it gets borin' after two minutes. Yas needs me to throw ya somewhere?"

"Not into the painful spikes factory," Scourge whimpered.

"Well, ok.." Mike then did a round-up and threw Scourge into the EXTREMELY PAINFUL SPIKES factory.

After some time passed, Scourge crawled out and growled. Pulling out a small communicator and groaned, "Doc...do you have better luck? Please say no."

Starline's voice laughed,"Oh, I've had excellent luck, Scourge! I'm meeting with this world's Eg- er, Dr. Robotnik, and he is a hoot! Is something happening over there?"

Scourge looked up nobly and narrowed his eyes, "I have met the enemy..." he paused, and waited. And waited. And waited some more.

Starline raised a brow, "Well?"

Scourge waited, and waited. Growling, he raced halfway across the continent until he got to a place with an overcast, and stood in the shadow, "...he is me." He then looked down,"Oh, and that other Tails is here. Just thought I let you know."

Starline sighed,"You shouldn't have that much trouble with him, Scourge." He then muttered," Again, he shows up. Twice is a coincidence, three times is enemy action..."

"He got the drop on me, but next time it will be different. Oh yes," Scourge said. before looking up to the heavens and screaming, "You hear me world! I will take down that hedgehog! Then I will take down his franchise, and the rest of the world! YOU HEAR ME! I SWEAR VENGEANCE!"

"Now you see Cream? That is a crazy person, you don't talk to crazy," Vanilla said to her little girl.

"Ok Mama," Cream said.

Fiona took a sip of cola as she sat with Starline at Robotnik's pool,"I think this world's starting to get to him."

Starline nodded.

Robotnik, also at his pool in a speedo and lying on his belly, while a few bots began to massage his back by beating it and using a rolling pin, "Isn't that the way with minions? I have some problems with them myself. Now, enough about hedgehogs, tell me more about why you sought my INFINITE and GRAND Wisdom?"

"Well, I'm one of your biggest fans!" Starline said, "I just have to know what kind of magnificent plans you had to destroy that meddlesome hedgehog and his lowly sidekick!"

Another bot began to massage his back and buttock, treating his body as a giant piece of dough. To that end, he even had a chef hat on as he began to massage the buns and roll his body with a rolling pin, "Well, currently, I was thinking of kidnapping Tails to force Sonic to tell me where he left the emeralds. See, work with me on this. Even if Sonic and his other selves from the timeline returned the emeralds to their proper place and time, then those four gems would still be there. I call it "Project: Do-Over!" that infernal hedgehog will never know!"

"Hmm, that sounds brilliant. If I may, Doctor, my servant is quite speedy himself, I could use him to grab the emeralds for you." Starline said with a smile.

"Really? I would expect nothing less from my biggest fan," Robotnik said. "Very well, you may call him and use my brilliantly thought out plan! Men, bring in the tea and coffee, we drink tonight."

"He seems happy," Scratch said, "Want to not tell him the bad news and play some video games?"

"Already in our room!" Grounder said, rolling away, Dreamcast controller in hand.

Scourge waited in a tree, binoculars in hand as he watched Tails and Sonic sit by some trees and eating some chili dogs, "Oh yes, eat well my rivals. But I will defeat you and then I will-" he looked up at the large bird that rested on his head. "Please...don't peck my head."

"Um, no," the bird said, pecking at Scourge like he owed him money.

Sonic began to eat, looking over his shoulder at Tails, "Hey, little bro, you ok? You look like you're waiting for someone."

Tails looked around,"Yeah," he swallowed,"I'm waiting for a friend... you see, this is gonna sound weird... but I'm not your Tails."

"Not my Tails? Who are you then?"

"I'm from another universe. An accident caused my mind to switch with your Tails." Tails then asked,"By the way... how old am I supposed to be?"

" Five, why did you ask?" Sonic said, "What is the other you a teen or something?"

"... Close... Eleven..." Tails hung his head.

"Man you got gypped," Sonic teased as he nudged his little brother's shoulder. "So why the switch."

Tails sighed,"I wanted to find a way to save Aunt Sally from roboticization... but there was an accident."

"Robotization? Your Robotnik sounds like a real jerk."

"Tell me about it..." Tails muttered.

Sonic patted Tails on the shoulder, "But you got through it. Bet ya that's because you had the best big bro always watching you no matter what."

Scourge began to walk behind them, turning off his communicator, "I am going to kill them, and then I'll will be happy. Oh yes, death will be swift and painful."

An old fox heard this and screamed out, "No it isn't! It's long and torturous!"

"Come on, Davey Crocket, tie for your medication," a fox nurse girl pushed him into a wheelchair."

"Thanks, Sonic, I know I can always count on you..." Tails whispered.

Sonic smiled warmly, wrapped an arm around Tails, and pulled him into a hug. Scourge smiled, brought out his knife, and walked closer. Bloodlust in his eyes as he came closer, licking his lips as he began to envision Sonic (in as TV-7 as he could) bleeding out and Tails being skewered. Raising the knife he prepared to kill them both in one go. Ready to strike he began to sta-

"LISTEN BUB!" Sonic said with a growl, pressing his nose to Scourge's, glaring his eyes into his alt dimension "I was enjoying some bro time here. Now, I know you are lonely and need some brothers of your own-"

"Yeah, I mean, considering that I kill people who get close to me..."

"So if you want to fight me so badly, how about we start by crossing this line!" Sonic said, making a line. Scourge bravely crossed it. Sonic then made another which Scourge crossed. Then another and another and another.

"I think this world has had a bad effect on him," Nicole said, popping out of the portal and sitting down, licking a small ice cream cone, "If you are curious, this Tails is fine. He's being...doted on by the others. Cream is just happy to have someone younger than her to play with."

"And this one and this one and this one," Sonic said, before saying, "You know what, maybe we should stop."

"**** you! I'm racing across this line and showing you how fast I am!" Scourge said, making his legs into a figure eight and running across the line, over a cliff, down the cliff, through the air, and hitting the ground at a velocity somewhere between a bullet and a man with a suicidal tendency.

"That's great!" Tails said with a smile,"Hear anything from Z yet?"

Nicole shook her head, "Nothing yet, I've been trying to access all I can but so far." she shrugged and then looked to Tails, "You seem to be enjoying yourself in this world."

As Scourge woke back up, he moaned, "I hate him...but that means I hate myself."

"Ah, I see," said a blue hedgehog in a white coat, large mustache, and glasses covering his eyes, "Tell me more."

"Well, you see, this guy who I hate, is me. But he's not me, but he is. And that annoys me," Scourge said.

"Ah, I see. My Uncle Chuck always told me to be smarter than the smarties and tougher than the toughies to win this," the doctor, I. C. Nutz. "And he also told me to keep my wits before taking on someone faster and tougher than me."

"Yeah, and that's why I am going to beat the snot out of you!" Scourge said, leaping at him with his teeth bared. Only to be kicked by Sonic into a wall.

"Hey, I just found my cousin, Ichabod Cornelius Nutz and I'm not about to lose him now!" Sonic said as the psychiatrist began to walk away.

Sonic then turned around, stuck his tongue out, and then ran up the side of the cliff. Scourge, now madder than ever, ran after him, up the cliff. Faster and faster, he chased after Sonic, aiming o kill him. He could feel the dirt crack beneath his heels as he ran. The air breezed past him as he ran and became quicker. He was breathing harder and harder as his feet touched the sky. His spirit was strong, he ran up and up, racing towards Sonic. Soon his breathing became harder and harder as he noted the lack of oxygen.

In space, Shadow looked at Gerald Robotnik. His black eyeliner and piercings shining in the Ark lights, "I don't care man! I'm gonna go down to Earth where my emo poetry is the respected man! Leave me-"

Boom!

"Sis! What was that?"

Scourge's head had appeared on the floor of the Ark

"Like, it's some green hedgehog," Maria said, pressing the eject button and knocking Scourge out and back towards Mobius.

Scourge, his screams inaudible thanks to being in space, began to fall through the atmosphere. Down below, Sonic looked up and gasped, "Oh my ancient walkers! He's reaching terminal velocity. I have to do something and save him!"

"Oh, I do wish someone could rub lotion on my back," Sally said, laying on a beach blanket.

Scourge forgotten, Sonic began to rub suntan on Sally's back. Then he began to cook some chili dogs, play Sonic Triple Trouble 16 bit on the computer, and started to read. As Scourge neared the point of impact, Sonic raced out, "I got it, I got it! I GOT IT!" he said, performing a supersonic Mach speed roundhouse into Scourge's face, sending him flying through Mobius.

He flew through some trees, more trees, a cliff, out of Ian Flynn's laptop, back into the story, through another cliff, past Super Mario bros super show, through mother brain on captain N, through Lior, past the butterfly mansion, through another more spikey cliff, past a belly dancing competition through a tar pit, a pillow factory, a nail factory, a torch factory, and then into a pile of bob-ombs. As he could hear the sizzling of the wicks, he looked to the ready and moaned, "Oh come on, a pile of bob-ombs are going to blow up, can't you come up with something new?"

then into ̶a̶ ̶p̶i̶l̶e̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶b̶o̶b̶-̶o̶m̶b̶s̶.̶ A very angry Godzilla.

"Oh F-" he was then thermonucleared into the ground.

"...Doc? I'm ready for that mission now," Scourge said, crawling from the crater, "And a massage from Fiona, a nice and long one..."

Tails laughed,"Well, this world is actually pretty easygoing, especially compared to the last one."

"Yes. There is just something peaceful here." Nicole said, standing up and walking away into a door of light, "Who knows, maybe your challenge will be something easy. Perhaps this is just their way of little you have a little peace after a horrifying experience."

"Yeah..." Tails sighed.

Fiona looked at Scourge as he came in, all disheveled,"You... don't look good."

"I feel horrible. That hedgehog, he beat me hard. This world," he looked at her, "IS insane! I need cuddles!"

Fiona sighed as she gave him a hug,"I won't tell anyone about this, m'kay?"

Scourge flinches a little at her touch, before sighing and nodding. He let her get close to him and hugged her back, rubbing her tail softly.

"Ahem." Dr. Starline's voice said.

Scourge looked up, "Do you mind? I was cuddling!"

"Yes, and you were taking too long." Starline said with a frown,"Especially when I have a mission for you."

"And I had a girlfriend to make happy"! Scourge said, standing up, "But fine, what is the mission?"

"I need you to gather four chaos emeralds from around the world," Starline said.

"Oh, sounds fun. See, that is why I hired you and then let you be the planner," Scourge, walking away with s smirk, "You come up with the cool plans and I get to have my fun." He then took off. "See you in a bit."

"I'll send the locations to your communicator," Starline said, walking away.

Scourge smirked, "Just wait Sonic...I'll have my-" he jumped out, "Revenge!"

a bird then came along, landed on his head, and then began to peck at him like Scourge owed him money.

Scourge ran across the ocean to a small island, where he began to dig for the first emerald, "Yeah, that's what's been happening." he thought to himself, "The world's been getting to me, I'm just tired of failing! I've gotten my butt handed to me in two separate worlds now and I've got nothing to show for it."

With the invisible emerald in hand, he began to race towards the small pyramid for the Emerald of Immortality," I miss the old world, at least there I was king for a bit. At least there I won some and everyone feared me but now..."

He landed with a small thud and looked to the Robotnik mummy, still holding onto the gem. Using his invisibility, he grabbed it from the corpse and smirked as it turned to dust, "Now I feel like someone's cheap joke. Well, not anymore, when I get all four? I'm abandoning the doc and taking this place as my own. And then I'll rule and be awesome and..."

Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a small locket with a picture of Fiona. After looking at it for a moment, he closed it and ran off towards an abandoned castle, "I'll ditch her. I mean, I don't LOVE her, she's just my little side piece and once I'm done with her I'll abandon her for something better. Bet I can find a hot female Sonic for a quick fling or something." he chuckled to himself as grabbed the gem from the king's corpse.

"Only a king could-" the corpse said.

Scourge chuckled, "Still technically the King of Moebius, they just never took my license."

"Dang it."

"And one more," Scourge said, racing off toward a volcano.

meanwhile, Robotnik called on the phone, "My biggest fan, I am quite curious. This minion that you are sending to collect the emeralds? He will bring it to me, correct?"

Starline twirled a ring on his finger,"Of course, he will! He wouldn't be so stupid as to take it for himself!"

"And the power over life itself," he said, taking the last emerald.

Listening to the music for a moment, he yelled out, "OI! I ain't having that classical crap!" tapping his foot, he added, "Now, give me a theme I can rock out to!... That's better!"

Lighting, flame, and earth began to surround his body as his quills started to rise. With each chuckle he let out, his quills began to rise. Soon, his chuckle broke out into mad laughter as he began to change from light green to dark purple. The wind seem to scream in fear at the sight and stopped from his incoming form, while his body began to glow. With one final laugh, a shockwave erupted from his body, leaving a crater as his body was changed. Eyes black with red irises found a small sunglass hut and he walked to it. Reaching in, he stole the glasses and put them on his eyes, "H-h-hey!" The skunk inside said, "Why aren't you paying for those!"

"Simple," Scourge said, grabbing the skunk by the neck, "Because I'm evil. And it feels so good."

"Ok man, just wanted to know. It's all good!" The skunk conceded.

"Now if you don't mind," Scourge said, walking away, "I'm going to go, kill the hedgehog, and then? I'll make this world my bitch! Then, I'll make everyone remember the name of King Super Scourge! HAHAHAHA!

"Starline...why are the embodiments of wind, fire, earth, and lighting at my door crying for sanctuary?" Robotnik asked, loking out his window.

"SAVE US!" the wind said

Lighting nodded, "The purple one cometh!"

"We can't watch!" The Fire one said

"I don't want to die like this! I want to die by the sun!" The earth said.

Starline took a sip of coffee,"It seems Scourge found the emeralds."

Robotnik paused, looked at Starline, and let out a fairly calm and collected what. He then talked about the reprocessors of such a fate and what they should do next.

...

You aren't buying it, are you?

"Scratch, Grounder, get everyone out of the room," Robotnik said. As the two dumb-bots moved everyone out, he also added, "All living things." then his favorite plant grew little bitty legs and ran out of the room. He then stared out at the heavens and screamed in utter rage.

Meanwhile, in the home for the criminally insane, "Sonny! If I told you once, I told you a thousand times not to swear unless it's in victory." Mama Robotnik asked, "Oh why can't you ever be more like Colin."

Colin Robotnik, holding his little girl's hand, began to sign the papers, "And you promise the insurance will make sure she never never never never NEVER leaves again unless she is shot?"

"Yes, sir, Mister Robotnik."

Tails cocked his head as he looked in the direction of the scream,"Huh, wonder what's going on."

"Maybe someone stubbed his toe?" Sonic asked.

Nicole, looking down at her computer, said, "Tails, a message from Z...' Help overthrow the king."

"The king?" Tails asked.

There was a flash of lightning and thunder, before ̶S̶c̶o̶u̶r̶g̶e̶ Super King Scourge appeared, "Hey boys. Whacha doing?"

Tails' eyes widened,"Super Scourge!"

"What?" Sonic asked, "You mean he can get lamer?"

Scourge chuckled darkly as the lightning crackled and ̶S̶c̶o̶u̶r̶g̶e̶ Super King Scourge chuckled darkly as lightning crackled and danced along his figure. He waggled his finger at him, "Then come here and say that."

Sonic revved up his legs and ran right at Super King Scourge, his fist drawn. Then he began to deliver a barrage of punches and kicks, striking out at each body part of the hedgehog. Super King Scourge could only smile at this before spinning around to roundhouse Sonic through some nearby trees. Then he walked slowly towards Sonic as he struggled to get up, "Interesting, these four emeralds arent as draining as the ones back home."

"Ok, so you're good. How about I give you a little of this!" he said, turning into a buzzsaw and spin dashing at Scourge Super King Scourge.

Super King Scourge then hit Sonic with a baseball bat and knocked him into a rubber tree. Then he hit Sonic with a paddle as he returned, followed by: A croquet mallet, a cricket bat, a tennis racket, a racquetball racket, a pinball flipper, a chair, a tree, Tails' teddy bear, and Kazooie.

Sonic, on the other paw, crashed through the rubber tree and towards the bob bomb plant. A nearby animal groaned, "Ooops, there goes another rubber tree plant. Well, at least I got high hopes."

As he landed in the middle of the bob-omb field, he looked at the bob-ombs, "Hey guys." Sonic said woozily.

"Hello, we're gonna blow up," the bob-omb said, smiling.

"Hey, ya gotta do what ya gotta do. Have fun," Sonic said, putting on a blindfold and putting in a lollipop.

"Thanks."

BOOM!

Super King Scourge smiled as he rode Ghidora's back, and had it electrocute Sonic, frying his body before he hit the ground. Looking at his opponent's beaten and broken body, he laughed, "And now dear Sonic... you will die!" he then raised his hand, ready to impale Sonic.

"Wait!" Tails shouted,"You don't wanna kill him now!"

̶S̶c̶o̶u̶r̶g̶e̶ Super King Scourge looked back at Tails angrily, "Oh no you don't. I know where this is going. I'm going to say why not and then you will come up with something that will hit me in my pride that will make me say yes and then you will come up with some plan to defeat me! Well, not this time. I will only stop if you can give me an adequately researched paper on why I should with proper graphs, charts, and a cost-benefit analysis as to why!"

"Haha! The fool, there is no way he could have a properly researched paper in such a small amount of time."

1...

Tails handed him a paper.

Super King Scourge began to read the paper, looking it over inch by inch. He began to read it over and look over every inch of the paper, eyes widening in shock and amazement. Then he lifted the next sheet, looking at the graph, both the dotted line and the sloping line that showed the cost-benefit analysis of letting your opponent live, being merciful, and being a good ruler. The next few pages were a well-documented and referenced paper about how mercy and letting pride take over was a good way to be a stronger person and why it should be advisable.

After reading for a few minutes, he sighed in defeat and nodded, "I concede your point. All right, the deal is made." he then shook Tails' hand and walked away.

Tails grinned,"Hook, line, sinker." He whispered, before picking up Sonic and flying off.

Super King Scourge called Starline, "Boss...I just got beat with math."

Starline facepalmed,"... Really?"

"No, really, look," Super King Scourge ran to Starline and gave him the paper, "see?"

Starline took the paper, and then gasped, "Oh my god... this is quite profound!"

Super King Scourge nodded, "Yeah, and he even had references and everything. I mean, what could I do?"

Starline nodded,"You're right, when someone brings up so many sources like this, you can't do much about it!"

"Hey Tails," Sonic mumbled, "What hit me?"

"A train named Super Scourge." Tails said,"Now we need a plan."

"Good, little sis. Do you have an idea? Because I think I am suffering from a concussion, and maybe an out-of-cartoon experience." Sonic said, looking up at Mario as he held Sonic.

Tails sighed, "Please tell me Angel Island is in this world."

"Angel Island?" Sonic asked, still woozy. Then he paused, looked back up at Tails, and in his daze he saw a cute bunny. Shaking his head, he looked back up at his little brother and shook his head, "Never heard of it. Let me see the tourism book." he then reached into his pocket to find a map.

"Hmmm, Spaghetti Land, Car Land, Cloud Land, Sarasa. What kind of places are thi-Oh," he paused and threw out the book of travel locations of the Mushroom Kingdom. He then pulled out the Mobius book, " There it is."

Tails looked over his shoulder,"Oh, I didn't expect it to be in a travel guide!"

"Yeah, it says right here, "Secret Location. Only come here if you believe in fairies, ghosts, the Lost City of Animalantis, the flames of Disaster of Soleanna, the Metarex, and the Little Planet."

Tails nodded,"Well, I believe in all of those things, so..."

Sonic landed on his feet, "So, what's at the island so I can have a rematch with the loser?"

Tails looked at Sonic,"The Master Emerald... if it exists here."

"Well, it's a start. Let's see if we can get a plane," Sonic said, getting ready to race off.

"Excuse me, palsy. Was I overhearing correctly that you need a plane?" came a very overbearing and very slimy voice that sounds like he sold his own mother for a buck.

"Don't be silly, Mr. Narrator. I sold her for ten. I love my momma way more than a dollar," Wes said.

Tails looked at him,"Yes, we're looking for a plane."

Wes Weasely smiled as he stepped to the two, "Well, well, well, my good friends. Have I got a deal for the both of you!"

"What's the catch," Sonic asked, with his arms crossed and tapping his foot.

"Catch, what do ya mean catch? My pal, I'm frankly insulted at such an idea! Do you really think I would squelch on a customer, especially as since I have already sold two planes previously to two happy customers? One cat and one very angry possum."

Axel Gear smiled as he flew at Sparkester, "Ok you miserable bastard, see if you can take on 4000 lbs of pure" the engine of the plane went out, as well as the wing, the other wing, the engine, and soon the cockpit, "Piece of SHIT!"

Sparkster smirked as he charged up his rocket to kick some ass.

Wes smiled and pulled out a contract and a coupon, "Why right now, I am offering a free coupon for a Game Gear for the first purchase of one of my planes. And I am offering the most advanced jet I have, ESPECIALLY FOR YOU, for only small payments of 10 mobiums. Just sign here and you'll be on your way to the amazing Angel Island!"

"Wait, you've been there?" Sonic asked, looking over the contract.

"Been there? Why Sonic my good friend, I offered a good trip to a nursing home to the father of the guardian there!" Wes said.

Tails raised an eyebrow,"And this plane works."

"OF course it does!" Wes said.

"Can I test fly it?" Tails asked,"... or Sonic if he's feeling up to it?"

Wes smiled and nodded, "Why sure, here's the keys," he said, handing off the keys to Sonic and walking away from the jet. "Here's the jet.."

Sonic walked up to it and looked back at Tails, "Ready to catch me?"

Tails nodded,"As ready as I can be."

As Sonic got near it, he noticed something out of the corner of his eye, "What about that red and white one?"

"Oh that?" Wes said, looking at the propeller plane, "That's just a boring model. I was going to sell it to a museum for a clean tax-for a lying dectu-for charity."

"So you would say that it's more dangerous than this?" Sonic asked.

"No, it's safer and way more convient. But you would have to repair it yourself for the cheap," Wes said.

"Then we'll take it, bye Weasley," Sonic said, pushing the red and white plane away.

"...Did I just lose a deal?"

Tails flew to the plane and began to stroke it,"Baby..."

Sonic patted Tails on the shoulder, "Need a moment?"

Tails nodded,"Just... let me touch it..."

Sonic gave Tails a moment to touch it. Nicole, on the other side, smirked, "Oh Tails, darling. I missed you. I can't wait for you tom back to me." she said in a slight falsetto.

Tails gasped,"Tornado? You were!?"

"Oh yes Tails," Nicole continued, trying to not giggle at her little prank. "I have so much o tell you about our love and desire for each other. Oh, I need you in me!"

"I will go in you!" Tails played along, though he wasn't quite sure what Nicole meant by that.

Sonic rolled his eyes as he got on top of the plane, "A boy and his plane."

Tails went inside, adjusted the seat a little, and then started it up.

The music got started as the plane took off. Sonic ad a smirk as he watched the ground beneath him disappeared and the sky unfolded before him. With the wind in his quills, he enjoyed the freedom that the air gave him. Down below, Wes Weasley waved them off, "Good Luck Palsy. I'll be rooting for you." he said, before picking up a cell phone, "Put 20 on Scourge."

"Yes sir," a green canary said, putting in the money on the leaderboard.

Scourge; 100 to 1

Sonic: .01 to 100000

Super King Scourge smiled as he put some mobiums onto the betting table, "All on me. Don't worry, my boss will cover it."

Meanwhile, Wes pulled out another phone to make another plan, "So, Mr. Ley sir, tell me how fast you can get me out of here."

Ridley played with the phone, "As soon as you call us, we'll beam you out. Just be sure to pay us the weapons and supplies you promised."

"Will do, Mr. Kill Crazy sir."

As Ridley hung up the phone, he looked to you, "How did he know my family name is Kilcrazy?"

Sonic looked ahead, "Angel island, dead ahead!"

Tails nodded as he got prepared to land it,"Be careful, the inhabitant might not be initially friendly."

Sonic shrugged, "Come on, how bad can it be?"

"Well, when I first met him, he knocked you out."

Sonic landed from the plane as Tails put into the parking space, "Well, maybe I can see it coming."

"Halt!" A certain red echidna appeared from the forest,"Who goes there?"

"The name is Sonic and me and the bro are looking for something called the master emerald?"

"So, the Master Emerald and the Seven Chaos Emeralds are what you desire? If you want it, you'll have to pass my test." Knuckles said, before turning and heading into the forest,"I'll be waiting in the temple beyond Mushroom Hill."

Sonic shrugged looking back at Tails, "Well, this seems easy. No knocking ou."

Tails frowned,"Too easy."

They walked through Mushroom Hill... only for a figure to come out from behind a shroom with a bite.

Toad stepped out of the shadows, looked at Sonic and Tails, and whispered, "Run."

Sonic looked at the figure, "Hey, shadows! Come on out so we can say hi!"

The figure rose to his full height, revealing a green crocodile with headphones,"Alright!" He punched at Sonic.

Tails flew back,"Vector!" He then dodged a small bee charging at him,"Charmy!"

The bee turned to him and frowned,"Awfully quick!"

A couple of kunai were thrown at Sonic,"That must be Espio!"

Sonic back jumped and bounced from tree to tree to dodge out of the way of the attacks, "So, a flyer, a muscle, and a ninja. All we need is super strength and we have a whole set."

A yellow flying squirrel flew down at him,"I-I can fly too!"

Then a spinning red ball jumped up at Sonic.

Sonic let out a gasp as he leaped out of the way of the red ball, only to lose his footing as it hit the tree and made him shake from the impact. Getting up, he saw the armadillo walking toward him with hands behind his back, "Let me guess...Mighty?"

"Yep!" The armadillo said.

"Right, nice to know your mom was confident in your life choice," Sonic said, putting his palm down and revving up his feet, "Tails, how are you doing up there?"

Tails flew down next to Sonic,"Fine." He looked at the group of Mobians grouping up in front of them.

"That's right!" Vector said,"We're the Chaotix!" They all struck poses.

Sonic just stood there dumbfounded at the sight of the Mobians doing a sentai pose.

Vector then pointed at Sonic,"If you want those emeralds, you'll have to get past us!"

Sonic smirked,"No problem. I mean how.." he trailed off, thinking, "How tough are you?"

Vector cracked his knuckles,"Wanna find out!?"

Sonic let loose, "Sure!"

(Sounds of random violence)

Charmy was thrown aside,"Of course, I'm the first to fall...

Sonic panted, holding a little fly swatter in hand, "Thank goodness I bought this."

Vector chomped down on him.

Sonic jumped out of the way, narrowly missing the chomp. Looking down, he rolled down his boot, "Phew, everyone almost found out."

Sonic landed away and then ran up to Vector, before pausing and noticing something in his pocket. Smirking, he paused and said, "Wait! It's 9:00 am. Time for all good crocs to go to bible school!"

Vector gasped,"You're right!" he pulled out a bible and a crucifix, and then ran off.

"Phew, bible thumpers are so easy to trick sometimes," Sonic commented.

A couple of kunai was thrown at Sonic from a tree.

"Wait!" Sonic shouted up to Espio, "I dropped my contact lens! I swear if your kunai broke it..."

The chameleon sighed,"Fine..."

As Espio looked, Sonic kicked him hard in the behind. While he did this, he put his black-eye contact to cover his green eye.

Tails gasped,"I knew it... he lied to me."

"What?" asked Sonic.

"My Sonic made up some stupid story about a Super Emerald that changed his eye color and shoes! But now I realize he just got new contacts and a new pair of shoes! He was just trying to make himself sound cool!" Tails shouted.

Sonic paused and tapped his foot, "That does something I would do. I do get a little embarrassed by the fact I wear contacts. Makes me think of when I was a kid and wore glasses. So I would try and make something awesome up to hide it."

"Well, that does make sense." Tails said.

At that point, Ray swooped in for an attack.

Sonic rolled to the side and looked up, "Ok, a flying squirrel is surprising."

Ray crossed his arms,"And a flying fox isn't!?"

"True, I was happily surprised then too," Sonic said as he looked at Ray, thinking.

Ray looked at him,"W-what are thinking about?"

"How to quickly take you out before your friend does something like slam me with a big old tree."

"Like the tree behind you?"

"What tr-" Sonic was cut off by the tree hitting him in the back and sending him flying. "Your mom and dad must be so proud of how you kept healthy."

Mighty nodded,"Yep! It's a treat for my sister too!"

Sonic shook his head, "Is she as buff as you?"

"Well, she's still learning how to lift things, but she's pretty strong herself!" Mighty said.

"I'm so proud of her," Sonic said, "Shame I'm about to beat her brother up though."

"Not likely." Mighty cracked his knuckles.

"Oh yeah, very likely," Sonic said, running around mighty in a circle to cause him to fly up in a tornado.

"Whoa!" Mighty yelped,"Wasn't expecting this!"

"All those muscles and not a brain to use them?" Sonic said. As he watched Mighty rise high before falling, he said, "If this is the best that rad red got? We got it made Tails."

Tails nodded.

"You have a lot of confidence." Mighty got with a grin,"But Knuckles won't be easily taken down. You must fight him alone, your little brother can't come with you."

Sonic looked back at Tails, seeing him taking out Ray with an intimating look. Then he smiled, "Oh come on, how tough can he be."

A pause button showed up as Robotnik smiled and leaned back, "Oh, this is just great. I am so glad that Starline installed my new DVR security system. And record."

The pause button left the screen as Sonic walked slowly toward the giant temple.

Chaos Emerald chamber, deliveries in the back. Friday night, party night. Liquor in the front and poker in the rear. Appointments by Locke.

Keep out all immigrants, this means you.

If you want to see the master emerald, please see the tourist center at the entrance to the island and at the "Enchindas are Awesome" Museum at Echindalopis.

"Echinda-what?" Sonic asked, "What kind of tribe would be egotistical enough to name it after their species?"

Knuckles stood waiting on the steps in front of a large green emerald,"Yeah, not proud of that part of my history."

"Seriously, were they just vain or just wanted to brag about how cool they are?" Sonic asked.

"I'd say vain." Knuckles walked down towards Sonic,"I see you passed my team."

Sonic smirked, "Yeah they were easy."

"Unfortunately, you won't find me so easy." Knuckles walked up to him.

Sonic began to walk slowly towards Knuckles, lighting flowing off of his body. His black eyes narrowed as he took off toward the red echidna. He struck out with rapid-fire fisticuffs, striking out at him. After a few moments, Sonic panted and then looked as he saw Knuckles holding Sonic's fist, "Please, don't punch me off the island."

Knuckles smirked," No." He punched Sonic off the island, where Tails caught him.

Little Flickies flew over Sonic's head as he was airlifted back onto the island, "T-thank you mystic little dragons. Now take me back to avenge my daddy,"

Tails patted his cheek with some ice,"Ready for round 2?

"You bet. This time I'll come in so fast he won't see me coming," Sonic said, racing off only to fly away through the air a few seconds later.

"Ok, so he's strong, all I need is a good hit and he'll-" Sonic ran off, only to be knocked through the air again. "Knock me away!"

"Oh, he won't see this coming, I'll wait under the stairs for him!" Sonic said, rushing under the stairs.

"Hey." Knuckles said.

Sonic snickered, "Hey."

"What are you doin'?" Knuckles asked.

"Waiting for the echidna to come down so I can surprise him," Sonic said.

"Neat." Knuckles said.

"Yeah, that red moron won't think of..." Sonic paused and looked at the white fist as it came straight at his face. "Momma." He was then slammed out of the temple. Again.

Knuckles lay on the stairs, waiting. He knew Sonic would be coming for a third round and he was waiting. However, he began to hear soft music playing in the distance. As he began to drift off, he was given some warm milk, a blanket, and a Blaze the Cat (TM) plush. With a little yawn, he began to fall asleep.

Sonic smiled as he looked at the sleeping Knuckles and snuck toward the Master Emerald. As he snuck closer, he watched in horror as Knuckles began to walk towards him, "Wait, how are you-" he then heard Knuckles snore, "Oh Soap Shoes...he sleepwalks." he said before feeling the power of a punch hitting him upside the face.

Sonic awoke laying on the bed. Shaking his head, he said, "Unfortunately for me...I don't give up!" he then rolled out of the bed, a determined look in his eyes, "Tails. While I try this new trick, you come up with a backup plan with his weakness."

"You got it!" Tails said.

After a few moments, Knuckles could hear the sounds of trumpets and a cheesy band playing. Standing a few feet away from him was a very dapper hedgehog with large bouffant hair. Racing forward, the hedgehog said, "Congratulations Mr. Echidna. You have won an all-expense paid trip around Mobius! You'll see such amazing sights and sounds. Such as Marble Zone, with its lava, or Hillside Zone with its AMAZING... Hills."

"But I-"

Interrupting him, the hedgehog began to walk Knuckles away from the Master Emerald towards a waiting plane (Trip sponsored by Wes Weasely Air. Wes Weasely Air, why pick here?) "Or check out Soleanna and find out what it means to be a furry."

"Or go for a wonderful rooftop run. Or you could look up just where on Mobius Hyrule would be located," the hedgehog said, pushing Knuckles into the plane. Then he used his speed to start it up and push him and the plane off the island to parts unknown. Smiling, he took off his costume to reveal Sonic, "And that is how you take out an idiot Echidna."

Whistling his theme song, he began to walk up the way towards the waiting master emerald with a smile on his face. For a second he looked at the reader, "Look, I know what you are thinking, and he is NOT going to appear at the top of these stairs!"

A finger poked Sonic on the shoulder,"No, right behind you." Knuckles was behind him, wearing a flower wreath, a Hawaiian shirt, a pair of sunglasses, and a nice hat. In his hand next to him was a suitcase with several stickers from Soleanna, Station Square, and Meropis.

As the fist hit Sonic hard, all he could think of was just how much pain he was going to be in the morning.

So he slept until the afternoon. Once twelve rang, Sonig woke up and looked at that alarm clock that hovered in the sky, "One of these days, I'm going to find out where that came from."

Somewhere on Little Planet.

Nickolas O' Tyme, master of the time stones, looked around, "Now I know I left that floating clock around here somewhere."

Back on Mobius

"Tails, got any ideas on how to handle him? I think he's read the same book I did," Sonic said.

Tails began to think for a minute, and then smiled,"I got it! Knuckles is weak around women!"

Sonic smiled, "Perfect."

A few minutes later.

Knuckles would hear the dulcet tones from a lovely pink echidna with metallic braids, "Oh yoohoo"

Knuckles' eyes widened at the echidna,"Oh- oh my..." He looked away.

The pink echidna walked up slowly to him, tucking his chin as she asked, "Wanna, show me around the island?" she said, taking him by the hand and walking away.

Knuckles dumbly said,"Uh huh..."

The echidna let out a giggle as she led Knuckles away, while Sonic began o walk away from a tree. Shaking his head, he said, "Thank goodness I found that girl. I just wish more people were like me when it comes to romance. When I see a cute girl, I would usually confess to them right away." he said, walking up to the Master Emerald.

The echidna girl, Julie-Su, smiled as she held Knuckles' hands, "Knuckles... before we continue this date, I need to deliver a message."

Knuckles, too distracted by a woman, let out a goofy chuckle, "Pretty girl."

Julie then leaned in, and kissed Knuckles on the lips softly, "You lose."

Knuckles giggled,"Okay..."

"Wait. What!?"

"I said, you lose. And the hedgehog wanted me to give you this," Julie-Su said, giving Knuckles a lollipop."But after you see him, can we continue our date? I never was able to really get the strength to ask you before because, well, I mean, I'm a little plain in comparison to the great guardian. I was hoping maybe Echidnadoplis tinder would let us match."

Knuckles scratched the back of his head,"Well, I guess we could..."

"Yay!" Squeed Julie-Su as she kissed Knuckles on his nose and skipped away.

Sonic smiled, "Hey, Knux, sorry for taking these seven, but I kind of need them to kick an evil me's can!"

Knuckles nodded,"Well, you outsmarted me. Go. Save the world."

"Thanks," Sonic said, "And good luck."

"Good luck?"

Julie-Su gave Knuckles a quick kiss on the cheek, "Good luck."

Then there was a flash of yellow light surrounding the island.

̶S̶c̶o̶u̶r̶g̶e̶ Super King Scourge sat on a throne made of robot skulls. Taking out a small head and drinking from it, he said, "And remember, it's Super King Scourge. If I am going to rule a planet, I want some good old fashion marketing: T-shirts, jackets, cartoon shows, video game series, and a guest spot on Critical Role," Super King Scourge said, talking on his phone, "Oh, they'll have me. After I kidnap Ashley Johnson they'll have no choice but-"

"To watch you get beaten by a Golden Hedgehog," a voice said.

Super Loser Scourge paused and said, "No, I was going to say, 'give in to my demands and let me use my broken character'." he said, before being knocked off the chair by a lightning bolt. And then punched by a hedgehog in the face.

"Weird weather," Sonic said, watching as the black clouds dissipated.

Slowly getting to his feet, Super pathetic Scourge shook his head, "Oh, you think you are all awesome because you have your super mode on. Well, I came prepared! Starline! show him how I had you capture his little brother in the meantime and Fiona can show him being slowly robotized and tortured."

Starline and Fiona were laying on beach chairs near him. Fiona was in a Super King Scourge Bikini, drinking lemonade while looking at him.

Starline pulled his shades down,"Super King Scourge, you never told us to do that."

Super Loser Scourge growled, "Yes I did. I put in a memo I gave you guys.

1. Become King of the world.

2. Nothing wrong with me

3. Set up Merchandising and Actual play empire to take over the internet.

4. Something's got to give.

5. Go out and kidnap Tails.

And then

1. Something's got to give.

2. Torture Tails.

3. Something's got to give

and then Test out Super mode with a massive cuddle session with my girl."

"You forgot one," Sonic said.

"What?"

"The body then hits the floor," Sonic said, performing a roundhouse to send Scourge flying.

Starline drank his lemonade," Considering he went against our plans... this is karma."

Fiona nodded and began to sip as she watched the show.

Super Scourge looked around him, "Oh god no."

The bob-oms all smiled as they exploded around him, leaving him standing alone in the crater. Growled with rage, he said, "Ok, you want an epic fight? You got it, as much as the DiC studios budget allows."

Scourge held up his iPod and pressed a button, "Let's dance."

However, as the music began to play, the yellow bolt flew by and pressed a different button, and with a smirk turned into a spin dash to strike Scourge in the stomach. With a yelp, the green hedgehog found himself skidding along the ground and creating a dust cloud.

Shaking his head, Scourge pulled out a super chainsaw and ran at Sonic, slamming the weapon deep into his body and turning it on. Laughing, he watched as the chainsaw began to dig into and tear apart his own little teddy bear, "What?!" he said, watching in horror as the white fluff flew out of its corpse.

Super Sonic stood behind him, "Behold, Violence, and yadda yadda. Deeper meaning and stuff. Let's just say punch me now and be done with it."

"Punch me now?" asked Scourge, only to realize what he just said as he felt a punch in the face hitting him hard enough to send him flying.

Super Sonic stood there for a moment, letting the energy flow off his body, "Let's see, I punched him through a mountain, and a building, and blew him up. What's next?"

"How about you hide in this box?" asked Scourge.

Super Sonic shrugged and walked in. As he did, Super Scourge laughed as he slammed the box shut, nailed it, set it on fire, put it into the safe, mailed the safe to Three-mile island, let the nuke hit it, fed the remains to Godzilla, used the oxygen destroyer to kill Godzilla, and then burned the laptop typ-

...

Now that I fixed the laptop, we can continue.

Scourge laughed, "HA! I defeated him! He's gone."

"Really?" Super Sonic asked.

"Yes! And now I can rule!" Scourge said.

"How, you are out of super mode," Super Sonic said.

Scourge looked at him, "What? No, I'm not!"

"Oh yeah, then why hasn't the text described you as Super?" asked Super Sonic.

Scourge looked at Super Sonic, "What do you-wait, I am confused. I lost the fourth wall-breaking ability! I am normal!" He looked over his now-green body.

"Yeah and that means it's time for a-"

"-Butt whooping?" asked Scourge.

"Yep." Super Sonic said as he gave him a butt whoopin'!

Scourge, in a lot of pain, whimpered as he tried to crawl away to the ring, "F-f-flip, you. I hope the next world you land in is trauma-causing."

Super Sonic smirked, "Look buddy, you can want that all you want. But Tails isn't one to let him let that get to him. If he's anything like my tails, He loves life and will keep the memory of the fun times here close to him. Even when he's an adult, he can appreciate just how fun it was to be a kid with his big brother."

an anvil appears that says MORAL!

Tails looked down at his feet,"You know what? You're right!"

"OF course, who would know better, than your big bro?" Super Sonic said, hugging Tails tightly, "No matter what, I'm always going to be here for ya kid."

A bright flash shone before Tails' eyes. When he awoke next, he saw several robots bearing down at him. Next to him was a sheep in a cloak,"Zonerunner, fight!"

Tails looked up at them,"Oh boy..."

Off-Topic:

Miles goes to a sign and carefully writes down "Scourge Says" on the sign only for Scourge to speed by with a can of spray paint and write down "Scourge Sez" with a wink.

Scourge hands out guns to little boys and girls, "Remember kids, guns are just big people toys, so use them as much as you can. preferably at your parents. And if they don't like it... shiv them. What's a shiv? Well, it's a-"

Chapter 4: Fleetway

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Scourge sighed, walking out into the new world. A small wince came to him as he looked down at the wounds his better half had given him. Just another bit in the collection of small victories that the Sonics have laid claim on him in the few months he had been traveling. Letting out a small growl, he punched the nearest tree in a fit of rage, "Stupid Sonic, Stupid Fox. Just once, I want to get my hands on a Sonic and break him. Make him just as bad as me."

Starline appeared from a ring portal,"Don't worry, Scourge, you'll have your chance to do so soon enough. Right now is the time for our plan in this world." He pulled out a small device,"Rogue? It's time to wake up."

The device spoke,"Yes, Doctor."

"Come Scourge, no time to dwell on the past..." Starline frowned,"Failures. We need to act."

Tails stood on top of several destroyed robots, breathing heavily,"Ow." He felt his muscles ache.

"Zonerunner, you have done it again." The sheep said,"In record time too!"

Tails blinked,"What did you call me?"

The sheep sighed as if she had said this many times before,"A zonerunner is he who walks the zones!"

"... That name is awesome!" Tails shouted,"That's it... I am henceforth known as... " He flew off,"Zonerunner!"

Zonerunner then flew back to the sheep,"Um, where is the Freedom Fighter HQ? Do you know?"

The lamb blinked, "Zonerunner, you do not remember?"

"... I just fought an entire army of robots, I'm kinda loopy right now." Tails said.

The lamb nodded, "Right, follow me."

The lamb took Tails to the edge of Chemical Plant Zone,"I cannot leave this place, but keep going this way."

Tails nodded,"Thanks!" he flew off.

He smiled as he flew through the zones,"I got a cool name, my body feels older, I beat up a bunch of robots! This is a really awesome day! Nothing could ruin it right now!"

"There you are, Pixel Brain!" Tails came face to face with a certain blue blur.

Tails stopped in mid-air, staring at this version of Sonic,"... What?"

"Why do you always run off to nowhere!?" Sonic crossed his arms,"Geez, you're a massive pain."

"... What did you call me?" Tails frowned a little.

"Pixel Brain. You know, your nickname? OR have you forgotten-" Sonic was then socked in the face by Tails.

Tails flew up,"Don't call me that ever again!" He flew away.

Sonic held his cheek for a minute,"... He punched me... The little twerp punched me..."

A pig in a leather jacket walked to him,"Sonic?"

"Porker, what is this feeling? It's the same feeling I have for myself, but, it's for someone else..."

"Pride?" Porker said with a frown.

"Pride in someone else other than me..." Sonic muttered,"Is that even possible!?"

Tails flew over some houses in a huff,"Great, first meeting with Sonic, and he's a colossal jerk! Do you know what would make me feel better? My workshop!" He stopped, hovering in mid-air,"I have no idea where that is..." He looked around, seeing the various moans,"I have no idea who these people are!" He landed, putting his hand to his chin,"... I'm utterly lost!"

"Lost?" A green canary in a striped sweater said next to him.

Tails slowly turned to the canary, and a wide grin spread across his face, Isn't this Amy's friend!? The one who runs that electronics store!? Social activity! "Tekno!" He hugged her,"I need your help!"

Tekno let out a yelp of surprise,"With what!?"

"Do you know where my workshop is, I need it to help me think, and I'm currently lost- why are you giving me a weird look?" Tails asked, noticing Tekno staring at him.

"... You're a mechanic..." Tekno smiled, taking Tails by the arm,"YES!" She began dragging the fox away,"Come with me!"

"Wait, what!"

Starline led his group to a small, floating planet,"Ah, Little Planet, just in time.

Scourge looked at Starline, "How did you time this down so easily?"

"I'm very particular about my timesheets." Starline took a small vial.

Fiona then asked,"What is that?"

"Nanomachines, specifically ones for a certain Metal Sonic." he dropped the vial onto the ground where several pieces of scrap metal lay.

The metal began to come together to form a large, red, Metal Sonic,"METALLIX LIVES!" The Metallix looked at Starline,"DID YOU FIX ME?"

"Yes, and I am now your master," Starline smirked.

"I WILL NOT OBEY YOU!" Metallix said.

"Rogue?" Starline pointed his device at it.

"Yes sir." the voice said.

Metallix let out a scream as something began to infect his system.

Scourge watched as Metallix began to suffer his corruption, and although it was nice to watch a robot Sonic suffer, he couldn't be happy. All he thought about was his losses earlier and what had happened. With a growl, he lightly punched a tree and began to mutter, "It's not my fault I'm losing all the damn time. These heroes keep seeming to have things I don't have. Lame things like friends and love and other crap. It's not my fault, I come from a world where we are all jerks! I was born into that life and we are all jerks! Assholes like me win there and..."

He sighed,"Lose everywhere else."

"You know what's funny? All it takes is one bad day and you'll be like me,"Scourge said, looking down at Sonic.

Sonic rolled and did a kick into Scourge's face, "And you know what's funnier? All it takes is a little more kindness, a little more care, and you could be just like me!"

"He's wrong. He's wrong about me. Every Sonic is easily breakable. I just have to prove it.

Starline looked at Scourge,"Why don't you run off and have some fun while I do some planning?"

"Thanks, Boss. I need a good run," Scourge said with a smile as he ran off with a loud sonic boom. Eyes narrowed, he began to run across the world of Mobius, trying to get his bearings on the world, while also trying to ignore the thoughts in his mind. Flashes of the worlds he visited flashed in his mind, "it's not my fault I was born in a world. It's not."

He stopped before a cliff and shouted, "It's not my fault, ya hear me ya stupid gods!? I was born in a world full of assholes and I don't need all of those things that he has! I don't need Love, Fiona kisses him, but he doesn't feel it anymore Friends All of the anti-freedom fighters glaring at him Or a little brother who likes me."

Scourge sat down and looked over the cliff, "I need to find this world's Sonic. I need to relieve stress before I existential myself into oblivion."

"I heard my name being called?" Sonic said behind him.

Scourge pulled out his shades and flashed a toothy-fanged grin

Before standing up and turning to look at this Sonic, "Yeah, I was calling your name. I was wondering what my good half was like in this world for some laughs." He then paused, "And what the hell is that accent?"

Sonic raised an eyebrow,"This is my normal accent. The hell is your accent!?" He shook his head,"Alright, what kind of doppelganger are you? Clone? Robot? Metamorpha who gained her powers back?"

"I have no idea who that last girl is," Scourge said, "Nope, alternate dimension traveler. But how did you get so many clones?"

Sonic shrugged,"I'm a popular guy."

"Or maybe you're just a jerk that everyone wants to get rid of and replace with a better version," Scourge said, putting his hands into his jacket pockets.

"Excuse me?" Sonic crossed his arms with a frown,"What the blazes are you talking about?"

Scourge walked around Sonic, his fanged smirk never leaving, "I'm just saying, all those dupes? Sounds like someone thinks you're an inferior copy. Or maybe, no one thinks your worth anything."

Sonic snarled,"I think you're stretching things a little. If anything, they're jealous of me!"

"Jealous?" Scourge asked, his mind beginning to plan.

"Yeah, I'm clearly the best hero on this planet!" Sonic said,"I'm fast, cool, strong."

"Oh, sure. The fastest, coolest, but not the most liked. You know what? I bet you push everyone away with your jackass attitude, that everyone you meet, you push away and anyone who is your friend does it because they are scared of you. And you know what? You like it."

Sonic frowned,"Shut up."

"Why? You know it's true," Scourge said, racing away and then coming back with some small bikes, "Look. Look at what they need to have in order to match a fraction of our power. We are so much better than them, and they know it. It's why they fear you and only become your friends in the hopes you spare them. You know it, and you like it. Because you are just like me."

Sonic ran back,"Shut up!" He sped forward to kick Scourge in the face.

Scourge stepped to the side, dodging quickly. He then wagged his finger, "Ah ah, temper. Didn't your uncle teach you better?"

Sonic gasped for a minute, before doing a spin-dash at Scourge.

Scourge took a step back and performed a spin-dash on his own, colliding with Sonic with a mighty clash. Getting back up, he laughed, "Oh, you are easy, aren't you? Guess that's what happens when you put yourself over others.

"Dont. Compare me. To you!" Sonic shouted.

Scourge ran fast, fast enough to create a speed mirage that stood next to Sonic,"Why not? It's true, isn't it? All of the other Sonics had a good comeback and almost broke me. You have nothing but scorn in those emerald eyes. And don't lie, we all know that's your natural eye color."

"Damn it, how'd he know..." Sonic muttered.

"Because you know, deep down, I'm right. That everyone is scared of you and you revel in it. That's the power we have," Scourge laughed, "And you just like reminding the inferior mobians about it."

Sonic began to spin around in a circle, creating a blue tornado,"I said, shut up!"

"You used that line before. Running out of material ya limey fruit?" asked Scourge.

"You're just ticking me off!"

Scourge then ran out of the tornado, ran up to Sonic, and smirked," Then do something about it, punch me right in the nose."

Sonic pulled his fist back and punched him.

"Come on," Scourge said, appearing behind Sonic, "You could do better than that. Or maybe, you aren't showing me everything. Come on blue boy, show me what ya really got. Or are you just holding back, not wanting the world to see the real Sonic the Hedgehog?

Sonic frowned,"... You don't want me to stop holding back."

"OH but I do, little blue boy. I do," Scourge said, "I want the world to see how bad you can really be and I want to see another sonic go bad, just to prove me right.

"I won't prove you right." Sonic snarled.

"Yeah, you will," Scourge said, flicking Sonic's nose before speeding off. "I have other things to do than fight a guy in denial, so see ya."

Sonic held his hand out,"Wait-" He cursed,"... No... can't bring him out..."

Starline held a ring in his hand,"Did you have fun, Scourge?

"Yeah, I did boss," Scourge said, running at top speed "So, how are you handling our new minions."

"They are working better than I had hoped." Starline smirked,"Now come, I wish to test them..."

Tekno smiled as she led Tails to her workshop, "Tada! Here we are, your workshop."

Tails looked around it,"Huh, this workshop looks..." He noticed that the bench was hastily put together from spare parts,"Put together."

Tekno muttered,"Well, you never worked on mechanics before and I thought it was strange that you asked for one, so I made it up on the fly."

"..." Tails stared at her,"Did-did you just say I'm NOT a mechanic!?"

Tekno gave a quick nod.

"This world's freaking weird." Tails muttered.

Nicole nodded from behind Tails, "Indeed. I have been trying to look at this world in order to help you and see what Z says. Even she is confused by all of this. But it could be worse, someone could be wanting revenge

"Revenge for what!?" Tails asked.

A portal opened up within a large medieval castle. A webbed foot appeared as several goblins looked in shock,"Hello, you." Starline smirked.

Scourge looked around, "Goblins? GOBLINS?!"

Fiona looked around at various foxes in captivity,"Goblins." She said simply.

One of the fox men looked at them,"Are... are you here to save us?"

"That depends, do you consider saving the same as destroying everyone who is not on my side and testing out new kill bots?" asked Scourge.

"... What." The fox asked, eyes wide.

Several Metallix appeared at Starline's side.

The Metallix's eyes glowed red as they said a certain word, "EX-TERM-INATE!"

The goblins let out cries of pain as several lasers struck them.

"So boss, who can I punch?" asked Scourge as the carnage unfolded.

"Whomever you wish," Starline said walking to a throne and sitting down on it.

Scourge smiled and looked at Fiona, "Anyone looks like an alternate version of someone you know?"

"Hmm, that one looks like an old ex I used to run with." She pointed to a random fox.

Scourge ran up to the one and rapidly punched him within an inch of his life.

One of the foxes turned to a female fox knight,"Morain, go through the portal, find Tails!"

"But, brother," The girl said,

"Go!"

Scourge smiled, "You know, I am so glad that the hero of this story is such a loser...he might have done more."

The fox held a sword at Scourge,"I will not let you attack any more people."

"You doing this? You're really doing this?" asked Scourge, laughing. "Come on then, Kenshin, swing that thing at me."

The fox roared as he swung at him.

The blade came down at him and is it near his head Scourge grabbed the blade in his hand. Wincing a little as the blade cut into his flesh and drew blood, the smile never left his lips. He then started to vibrate his hand at super speed, causing the blade to shake until it soon shattered into little pieces. Looking down and then back up to the fox, he shrugged, "Look at that, no mo. Now, let's try something I've always wanted to do with vibration..." he then held up his hand, vibrating at high speed.

The fox then said,"... Your hubris will be your downfall."

Scourge pulled back his hand and paused. Looking back at Starline, he looked at him as if to ask for a good comeback since he had no idea what that word meant.

Starline sighed,"Hubris means pride."

"Thanks," Scourge said before turning to his victim. "And your weakness is why you're dead."

"I may die... but I die for a good cause."

"Yeah, to make me feel better in the morning," Scourge said, ramming his hand through the fox's heart.

Blaze the Cat walked through a ring portal," According to her, the Sol Emeralds are here." At that moment, a fox fell out of a portal in front of her.

The girl looked up, eyes gazing around before looking at Blaze, "Where's Tails, who are you, and can you help me."

Blaze leaned down to the fox girl,"I am Blaze. What happened?"

"An army of these things called Metallix came into my zone, and...and..." she shuddered, as she realized the massacre that played through her mind. Seeing the slaughter before her, and the loss. Shaking her head, she stood up, "I need to find Tails."

Blaze grabbed her,"I'll carry you." She said. She then frowned I have no idea where Tails is...

Tekno blinked,"So, you're not my Tails, but a Tails from another world trapped in my Tails' body."

Tails nodded as he was making a small glove,"Yeah."

"... Checks out," Tekno said.

"Really, just like that?"

"I've traveled multiple universes with Amy. It's not that weird." Tekno shrugged.

Nicole raised an eyebrow at this, "This universe is quite... peculiar."

"You''re telling me." Tails whispered.

Tekno cocked her head,.

"Oh, I'm talking to an AI in my head." Tails said.

"Oh."

Nicole did a friendly wave, smiling cutely at the bird, forgetting for a bit that Tekno can't see her. Turning around, she walked back through the portal to allow Tails time alone.

Tails looked at Tekno,"So, what-"

Amy ran into the workshop,"Tails, someone's here, she's calling for you!"

"TAILS!" Morain shouted, "Get out here!"

Tails' eyes widened,"... I have no idea who that is." He walked outside to see the fox girl,... She is pretty though...

"Where were you!" Morain stomped forward and thrust her nose into Tails'

Tails blinked,"Um, back there?"

"That's no excuse, we needed your help and you weren't there! You abandoned us and for what was it time?"

Tails held up his hands,"Wait-"

Tekno shook her head,"Never knew Tails was that kind of person."

"Do you know what happened, why I am here?" Morain said, rage in her eyes.

"No!" Tails said.

"We just got ravaged by the Metallix. Our entire zone is gone, wiped out!"

"Oh..." Tails muttered. Then he blinked,"Wait, what's a Metallix?"

"You know, those things that look like a metallic Sonic?" Tekno said.

"Metal Sonic?" Tails asked.

"No, Metallix." Tekno corrected

Tails blinked in confusion,"Well, I'm sorry but... I have no idea who you are."

"Don't lie!" Morain said, "You know I'm Morain!"

"Morain? Sorry, but," Tails sighed,"Look, you may be important to this world's Tails, but... I'm not your Tails."

Morain paused, "What..."

"I'm not your Tails." Tails said,"I don't know about your zone or anything about this one!"

"..." Morine had never felt more embarrassed. Her shoulders slumped.

Tails put a hand on her shoulder,"It was a good rant though. It was pretty emotional..."

Morain sighed, "I had a good rant and everything too. I was so set on just wailing on your other self. Do you think it was really good?"

"Yeah, it was." Tails said,"At least you have it rehearsed when you use it on him!"

Morain nodded and got up, looking at Tails, "Is it too much to ask for help from you though?"

"No, of course not!" Tails said with a smile.

"T-thanks," Morain said, and blushed, not prepared for how cute this Tails looked.

Tails smiled at her.

Then his eyes widened, Not again. And it's another fox! I promise I'm not trying to be a chick magnet!

"Thank you," Morain said, looking back at Tekno, she said, "Sorry, but I need him for a bit,"

Tekno nodded,"Sure, go ahead." She winked at Tails.

Don't encourage me! Tails said.

"Tails, if it helps," Nicoles said standing next to him, "I do not find you sexy or datable. You are a bit too young for me."

"Thanks, Nicole." Tails whispered.

Morain ran ahead of Tails, racing towards the zone portal, "We need to hurry. Who knows how bad it's-" she paused when she saw the horror.

Tails went through with her.

Behind them, Blaze looked at Tekno,"... Again, I go by unnoticed..."

Tekno patted her arm, "It's ok."

Tails looked at the destruction of the Nameless Zone,"We are too late..."

Blaze stepped in, walking behind tails. She gasped when she saw the destruction and shook her head. Turning to look at the fox, she was about to ask but watched as Morain left, calling her brother's name.

Tails flew after her, looking around at the ground, before seeing something fly by him.

"See something?" asked Blaze

"Yeah, I wonder if-"

A Metallix landed next to them,"STRAGGLERS DETECTED, EXTERMINATE!" He looked at Tails,"LEAVE HIM ALIVE."

"Metal Sonic!" Tails shouted.

"Metallix, " Morain said to Tails from the distance

Tails sighed,"Whatever!" He glared at Metallix,"Alright, what's Eggman up to now?"

"I DO NOT SERVE DR. ROBOTNIK ANYMORE."

"..." Tails sighed.

"Why did you attack and kill my family!" Morain said.

"ORDERS." Metallix said,"FROM THE GODDESS."

Blaze looked at him quizzically, "Goddess?"

"THE GODDESS COMMANDS US TO DO AS SHE WISHES," Metallix said.

"Us? Isn't there only one of you?" Tails asked.

Morain shook her head, "No, there is more."

"More!?" At that point, several other Metallix showed up,"Come on!"

Blaze whispered, "Please don't get bigger."

"NO, THAT'S OUR EMPEROR." One Metallix said.

"Oh, thanks, that makes it a little easier to know where to start," Blaze said, creating fire in one hand.

The rest of the Metallix aimed their hands at them.

Tails looked at Blaze,"Think we can take them all?"

Blaze looked back at Tails and silently nodded.

Tails gulped,"Glad you're confident." He looked at the Metallix,"Hey, why are you ordered not to attack me?"

"THE GODDESS REQUESTS THAT YOU BE KEPT SAFE."

"Why would the goddess be focused on Tails?" asked Marione.

Blaze shook her head and looked back at the bots. Meanwhile, Nicole began to sway a little, trying to shake her head, "W-..."

"Nicole, you okay?" Tails asked before a Metallix attacked Blaze.

Nicole nodded, "Yes Tails, I am fine. I just had a small hiccup in my server."

"Okay..." Tails took Morain,"Come on!"

Nicole nodded, her eyes flashing a quick red for a second.

Starline watched from a screen,"Well, look at that, they've made a trip to the Nameless Zone. Now that they're distracted, we can make a move for this world's emeralds."

Scourge smiled, "Oh, now we get to the fun part? Are you sure we can't watch the little fox boy get his tails whooped?"

Starline shook his head,"No, I need to get him to Rogue. I must figure out why he is following us."

"Fine," Scourge said, shrugging, "Though personally, I prefer to pound first and ask later."

Fiona giggled,"That you do...

Scourge paused for a second, thinking about what she just said. Then he chucked a little, tucked her chin, and said, "You know it."

Starline coughed,"Anyway, Scourge, go to Angel Island, and take the emeralds. I'm going to command Rogue to take the fox boy."

Scourge smirked and began to walk away. Then he paused and looked over his shoulder, "Think this Knuckle-head is anything like my world or is he puny and wimpy?"

Starline was looking at the monitor,"Considering that you beat O'Knux rather easily, I imagine you'll be fine when taking on this Knuckles."

"Sweet," Scourge said, walking away, "Causing the hedgehog to doubt himself, beating Knux, and wiping out a small zone. Today...is a good day," he said walking through the portal.

As Scourge landed, he smirked but then frowned. He could feel a small pain in his chest for a moment, causing him to slow down. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward and shouted, "Hey, red dead! Come out so I can punch ya in the face"

Silence. Before something came out from the ground under Scourge.

Scourge did a quick step back, trying to dodge the incoming attack, "Whoa!"

Knuckles popped out of the hole, and glared at him,"What are you doing here?"

Scourge shrugged his shoulders, "Ya know, the usual. Come to Angel Island and see the sights: The lovely Mushroom hills, the scary lava reefs, the horrifying Hydro...Hydro...however you pronounce that thing, and my favorite, the emeralds so I can deliver them to my boss. Ya know, the only reason someone would visit."

"I figured as much." Knuckles tapped his fists together,"I won't let you take them!"

"Awww and you think you can stop me?" Scourge said with a chuckle, "So cute."

Knuckles punched at him.

Scourge was sent flying through two trees. Letting out a grunt, he slowly got back up and spat out a tooth, "Ow..."

Knuckles stepped out of the cave,"That all you got?"

Scourge shrugged his shoulders, "No, not a all." He revved up his legs into a figure 8 and ran out with his fist.

Knuckles brought his fist together, blocking but getting pushed back into a wall.

Scourge went into a back kick, roundhouse, and then did a jump kick, trying to break Knuckles' block.

Knuckles grabbed Scourge's foot before slamming him down onto the ground.

As Scourge lay on the ground grappled, he began to kick out repeatedly at Knuckles' chest and face o try and break out.

Knuckles grunted as he was pushed off.

Scourge rolled back onto his hands and feet, sneering as he looked into Knuckles's violet eyes. Licking his sharp fangs, he said, "Oh, rad red is actually challenging eh? Let's see if you like this one then Reddie."

He then turned into a spin dash, before leaping up and then moving fast enough that it seemed that he was surrounded by little green balls. Standing in the circle, he thrust his fist out to send the green balls at Knuckles, sending out several strikes of green energy. Landing on the ground, he smirked and snapped his fingers, "I learned that one from that weirdo in the other dimension. How do ya like me now?"

Knuckles' eyes widened,"That's new!" the balls struck him hard, slamming him into the wall.

Scourge ran towards the wall and began to rapidly throw punches at him, "My-Momma-Told-me-to-beat-you-hard-with-a-hick-ory-stick. Miss Mary Mack, Mack, Mack

All dressed in black, black, black

With silver buttons, buttons, buttons

All down her back, back, back. (or "Up and down her back back back")

She asked her mother, mother, mother

for fifty (or fifteen) cents, cents, cents"

Knuckles groaned as he attempted to pull himself out of the hole he was punched in, before falling unconscious onto the ground.

Scourge laughed and turned to walk away, putting a toothpick in between his teeth. Looking over his shoulder at the beaten Knuckles he smirked, before frowning a little.

"All you need is to be a little nicer and you could be just like me"

"Just like me."

"Like me."

"Just another word for a loser Sonic, that's all you are," Scourge said, before racing out to the temple where the emeralds lay. Smiling, he reached out and touched one, "Emeralds secured Doc."

"Good, please return, I think our dear little fox is getting tired..." Starline said over the communicator.

Standing over Knuckles' body, a white echidna watched. He cocked his cybernetic head,"It'd be easy to kill him now, wouldn't it?"

"Do you want to?" Another white echidna in a black cloak said from the shadows,"He will die either way."

"No... no I want him to suffer." The cyborg echidna said.

"Very well, Dr. Zachary." Finitevus said holding a ring,"Come, I have more to show you."

Several Metallix lay at the group's feet, Tails was holding a makeshift cannon in his hands,"Who... else... wants some?"

Blaze pulled her hand away from the molten slag that was a Metallix, frowning. Looking back at the fox girl, she was about to ask but stopped when she saw her kneeling next to her brother, weeping. Turning her head to Tails, she asked, "Tails...are you all right?"

"I'm... okay." Tails looked at her,"So, I didn't get a chance to ask, but you aren't the same Blaze that helped me against that crazed chinchilla, right?"

Blaze nodded.

"Oh, what a coincidence!" Tails said with a smile,"This might give me a clue as to what's going on!"

"Indeed, because I have yet to find where the Sol emeralds are, and you seem to still be lost," Blaze said.

"Yeah, and three times I came across Dr. Starline or Scourge the Hedgehog." Tails frowned,"I can't help but wonder if someone's leading..." Tails' eyes drooped a little.

"Tails?" Blaze asked, stepping closer to Tails and putter her hands on his shoulders, "Are you all right?"

"I... I don't know... I'm feeling weird..." Tails muttered.

"I think you need to sit or lay down. Let me get you back to your lab," Blaze said, her voice getting dimmer and dimmer. "Ta..."

"Miles. That's what I'll call him, my little Miles Prower."

"Awesome, you have a butt copter!"

"Don't worry, the only monster out here is miles and miles away. All you have to worry about is, the evil witchy hehe!"

Tails then awoke to find himself in a bed,"Wha... what happened?" He looked around his room,"Blaze? Nicole?"

A brown hand held his softly, "Are you ok little guy? You were sick for a while." a soft regal voice said before smiling warmly.

"Land's sake Sally-girl, you don't need to worry that much about him. He just got a little cold," An all too familiar southern voice said from within the kitchen. "You practically never left his bedside."

Tails looked up and gasped, before giving Sally a hug without a second,"Aunt Sally!"

Sally quickly returned the hug, holding him tightly, "I'm glad that you are feeling better. Are you hungry?"

Tails looked up at her and nodded,"A bit." He couldn't quite place it, but something felt off.

"Ok, I'll go make you your favorite," Sally said, getting up and straightening her shirt. Looking back, she smiled at Tails before walking out of the room.

"Shirt?"Tails winced,"When was Sally..." He hopped out of bed and left the room.

Bunnie walked by, playing with her ponytail, "Hey Tails, Rotor wants to see you in the tech lab. He wants your opinion on something." she said, walking towards the training room.

Nicole stood in the corner and smiled warmly as she watched Tails walk by. Her eyes glowed a little bit as she asked, "Is this good enough for you Tails? Are you happy?" before fading out.

Tails looked in Nicole's direction before shaking his head,"I... I was doing something... when did Bunnie have..." He walked towards Rotor's lab.

Rotor stepped out when he saw Tails, "Hey little buddy. I have that new laser attachment for the tornado and wanted your opinion on it."

Tails looked at Rotor's buff physique,"Holy-! Have you been working out!?"

"What are you talking about Tails?" asked Rotor, "I always do my best to keep fit. You know, a good mind and a good body, right?"

"Uh, yeah..." Tails muttered.

Rotor smiled and patted Tail on the back, "Hey, while you're here. Let's work on that laser upgrade to the tornado. I know you love upgrading that girl."

"Y-yeah..." Tails muttered,"Wait, Rotor, wasn't Sally roboticized?" He held his head,"I, uh, I need to go..."

"Not that I can recall little guy," Rotor said, before looking back at Tails. As Tails prepared to leave, he put his hand on the younger fox's shoulder, "Is this ok? Are you happy?

Tails looked back at Rotor,"What? What are you talking about?"

"I just wanted your opinion on the equipment," Rotor said, "Now how about you go on ahead."

"Yeah, sure." Tails flew off,"What's going on?"

Tail's flight took him outside, to see a bright and lovely Mobius. Quiet and silent with no traces of war or battle. Antoine stood next on the balcony, writing down in his notes, "Non, non, non. She would hate that."

Tails flew down to Antoine,"What's going on?" Good grief he's naked!

"Oh, Tails, I was just," Antoine sighed, "Trying to come up with a wonderful banquet for our anniversary tomorrow, but...Zut alors.. .nothing seems perfect. I cannot seem to make something so perfect that it would melt her heart."

"Well, you know, I think Bunnie would like anything you make no matter what." Tails said. He then frowned,"Wait... are... are you okay? You were in bed for a long time..." He winced,"I..."

"Quoi?" Antoine asked, "Tails, Am as you say, as fit as a fiddle. I am fine and have only in been in bed long enough to, well, perform husbandly duties. So," he looked at Tails and handed him the paper," Are you sure this is ok?"

Tails looked at the paper,"Yeah, sure..." He muttered,"I... I think I need to talk to Nicole, something's seriously wrong here..."

"D'accord," Antoine said, walking away.

Nicole appeared behind Tails, her eyes flashing red for a moment, "Yes Tails? Is there a problem?" she asked, walking towards him. As she reached out to touch him, she held back her left hand with a small wince.

Tails looked at her,"Something doesn't seem right." he whispered,"These are my friends but... they're also not."

"Tails, you are weary," Nicole said, rubbing his arm, "It's usual for one to feel strange."

Tails shook his head,"No, something doesn't feel right..." He looked at Nicole,"I need to get to a computer somewhere."

"Ok Tails. There is one in the computer room. As I remember Vector put up te signs for you to find it," Nicole said, smiling. "Just-"

"don't trust m..."

Nicole shook her head and winced a little, swallowing a little. Then she pointed to a sign with a crocodile pointing to the right.

"Thanks." Tails flew over.

Waving goodbye to Tails, Nicole smiled and began to fade away, her eyes flashing a quick red. In a flash, she began to look at Sally as she started to work on plans for Mobotropolis, and then to look in on Bunnie with Antoine. Seeing the happily married couple talking over dinner made her smile warmly at the sight and for a moment she reached out for them, "St-" Nicole shook her head at the sound of the voice before moving on to check on her other friends.

"He is missing you know. Tails will notice," the voice spoke, a hint of anger in her voice, "You brought all of our friends but-"

"That one was unneeded," Nicole spoke to the voice, her right eye flashing from green to red in rapid succession, " Tails is fine as...as is."

"Is he? Or has he found out?" asked the voice with a smirk before a quick close of the eye turned her off. Nicole teleported behind Tails as he flew through the hallways, following he signs until he reached the large computer room. Several of the computers were on and playing bits of info, with the exception of one that was putting up the loading screen for Fallout 4

Tails went to one screen,"I need to check on Sonic. I wonder where he is..."

Tails' fingers rapidly danced across the keyboard, looking for Sonic's registration. As his search continued to see missing and lack of blue, Nicole stepped to Tails, "He seems to be missing. Oh, you know him, always running around, not staying for long."

"But I should at least get a bead on his last..." He thought for a moment,"Wait, Sonic's usually here."

Nicole blinked for a few moments, "W-wha do you mean Tails?"

"He's usually here, at his house." Tails said,"Sometimes at HQ, sometimes with his parents."

Nicole paused for a moment, thinking. Then she raised a finger to say, "Keep asking questions Tails. You almost-" and just as quickly she closed her right eye.

"Almost what?" Tails looked at her with a glare,"You know, you've been acting pretty strange lately."

"Just a little virus Tails," Nicole said, smiling, "You know, messes up with our systems. It's ok, it's all ok."

"If it's a virus, then you should let me take a look at it." Tails said.

Nicole blushed and backed up, "Miles Prower, I thought you were a gentlefox. Asking to see inside a lady is a personal question." she said, struggling to keep her right eye closed.

"I'm not going to do anything personally, I'm just going to run an antivirus on you."Tails frowned,"Unless you're afraid I'll find out about you, 'Nicole.'

"I'm not afraid," Nicole said, shaking her head, "It's just that you are asking a girl to-"

"Run Tails!" Nicole said, opening her eye quickly, "She's trying to hold you, prisoner!"

Tails gasped,"Nicole!" he nodded, and flew up,"If this is some kind of holographic trap, I need to figure a way out!"

The other Nicole shook her head and reached out, "No, Tails, I can't lose you! Come back!"

"You're not Nicole!" Tails shouted.

Bunnie stepped out as Tails flew by, reaching out, "Tails, what's goin' on?"

"Go away!" Tails shouted.

"Hey Tails, could you slow down?" Rotor said, stepping in front of Tails out of a hallway.

Tail's Nicole began to speak into her variant's head, "HE doesn't want to be here. He wants out."

"NO! He needs to be here, he needs to be safe," the variant said, shaking her head, " I can't lose him, I can't lose this one..."

"And what does he want?" asked Nicole, before stepping away from a firewall as it appeared before er.

Variant Nicole smiled, "There, a firewall to prevent intrusive programs. That should fix things, Maybe I should also do a little sweep."

"Out of the way, Rotor!" Tails shouted.

The faster Tails flew, the more he could hear voices asking him to stop. Voices calling out to him or voices begging him to slow down. After flying for a while. he soon found himself outside of the base and near the tornado.

Tails headed to the tornado,"I'll take this!" He went into the pilot's seat.

Sally shouted out from behind in the hallway, "Tails!"

Tails took a brief look behind him.

"You don't need to run," Sally said, offering her hand, "We can talk."

Tails backed up,"About what? Keeping me prisoner?"

"No, keeping you safe," Sally said.

"From what!?"

Sally looked down, "From the outside world."

"You know it's been bad out there. What with Starline, Scourge, and all of that," Bunnie said.

"Isn't it just easier to rest back in a place you know where home is?" asked Antoine.

"Just relax in the memories of the past, where reality can't hurt you anymore," Rotor said.

A pair of hands rested on Tails' shoulders, "You should come home," Nicole said.

Nicole began to push through the firewall, wincing in pain from the flames. Stepping back, she looked down at the blisters that started to form. Raising her green eyes to look back at Tails she said, "I got to help until I can break out. But how..." she looked around.

"This..." Tails shook his head,"This isn't my home!"

Nicole rubbed Tails' shoulder and rests her head on his, "Tails, this is your home. Trust us."

"Come on Nicole, you can find something!" Nicole said, sorting through the files one by one.

"L-let me go!"

"Come on, come on," Nicole whispered, looking through the files as fast as she could until she found one locked behind a small shield. Sighing, she pressed it and watched as a password screen appeared.

Blinking, she pressed a few letters that she felt she knew and understood well.

Ellidy

Watched the file unlock before her eyes made her smile and when she opened it, she said, "Oh, did we forget someone?"

A blur passed by, causing the still members of the freedom fighters to spin in a circle. The blur then went by Nicole, tying a little bow onto her wrists and pulling her away before running by Tails. As the blur stopped running, a voice asked, "Now, why did you forget little ol me, huh Nikki?" playing with a small gold ring.

"And the element of chaos added," Nicole said.

"Sonic!?" Tails gasped.

"Who else?" Sonic smiled.

Tails then gave him a hug.

Sally paused and looked at Sonic, before putting her hands on her hips, "Where have you been?"

Nicole spoke to her other half, "Is that why you blocked him?"

Tails blinked,"Wait," He looked at 'Nicole',"You trapped him, didn't you!?"

'Nicole' said nothing, only looking down and breathing slowly.

"Who are you!?" Tails shouted.

"..." 'Nicole' paused as the portal faded in, and the other Nicole began to speak through her lips, "She couldn't let Sonic in. He's chaos, the undefined bit of information that would break the system. She knew that if she let him in then this would all break."

Sonic gave his friends a hug as they talked, not even noticing the two animals as they continued their speech. Occasionally, he would look over his shoulder at them and nod.

'Nicole' began to speak in her own voice, monotone and without life, "I did not want to lose it. It was hard to bring it all back. Lost it all. All was Lost. Could only bring back a few, lost Tails. Needed to protect him from what was happening. St-st-St-"

"You know, you didn't need to do this," Sonic said, stepping out.

"No. Needed to protect Tails, needed to reborn world," Nicole said, her eyes changing to red, blue, and her natural violet.

Tails frowned,"Nicole?" He held out his hand.

'Nicole' flinched, "N-no. Unsafe. World, protecting. You, need to be..."

"Tails, Sonic," Nicole said through the other eye, "I can feel it. She's scared. Whatever happened to her, what she saw, it's breaking her. You need to be careful about what you say."

Nicole looked around the digital world, feeling a buzz coming to her, "What..."

"Look, I don't know what happened, but you can't keep doing this to yourself. You need to be free," Sonic said. "Why not enjoy a new world? We'll still be here you know."

"N-no. Not you...unfair," 'Nicole' whimpered and began to back up a little.

Inside a computer room, Starline watched on a screen,"Oh, we can't have that. Fiona, fetch me a red star ring."

Tails looked at her,"Nicole, it's okay, we'll be fine."

'Nicole' began to shudder and buzz. Then she looked at Tails, seeing the warmth in his little blue eyes. For a moment, she smiled warmly and reached out to touch his hand, "Yes... maybe I should move on."

At that point, a purple light filled Nicole,"And activating Overclocked Nicole." Starline said.

"GAHHHHHH!" 'Nicole' screamed, and in effect pushed out Tail's Nicole.

Tails yelped as he flew back,"Uh, Nicole? Can you do that?" he asked Nicole.

Nicole shook her head,"I don't think so. I never-RUN!"

"All must be safe in the reborn world," the world around them began to collapse as Sonic and the others shot into the sky on pillars of stone and screaming computer. Overclocked Nicole looked at Tails and raised a hand, generating a gun, "All must be safe. Initiating capture program..."

"Eep!" Tails flew off," Nicole, do you have any control over this world!?"

"I'm trying! Maybe if you found something that could boost me!" Nicole said, wincing at the flames.

"Darn it, I'll have to jury rig something!" Tails muttered as he flew through the fire.

'Nicole' popped up in front of Tails out of nowhere, and cocked her head to the side, "Don't run. I want to help you."

"I don't want-" Tails stopped,"Actually, do you know how you can help me?"

"How?" 'Nicole asked.

"Hand me a computer, and I'll show you."

'Nicole' smiled and handed Tails a computer, "here."

"There we go... activating ..."

"How would chaos emeral...wait." Nicole began

Seven chaos emeralds appeared around Tails. They whirled around him, summoning a bright light that caused a cape to form behind him,"Now, we're even."

Nicole let out a very buzzy and staticky, "How adorable."

Tails slumped over,"... I thought it looked cool..."

Overclocked Nicole reached out with a flaming hand, screaming as she tried to pull Tails to her.

Tails dodged the hand before flying at her,"Here, calm down!"

Nicole let out a grunt as she felt Tails' two fists collide with her stomach. Letting out a growl, she tried to ram her knee twice into his chest, watching as he bearly winced. Then she spun to throw him into the ground.

Tails slid onto the ground before flying up to her again,"Please tell me this has a time limit, I do not like hurting my friend!"

Tails Nicole tried to buzz in, "I think it does. You can't keep a computer overclocked forever. I can assume she has about one more minute before she either tires out, bluescreens or..."

"... Can't think about that... maybe I'll find another way." Tails muttered.

Two stone hands reached out for Tails, only to grab at nothing as he flew at her. Spinning around, he created three little tornadoes of wind to hit 'Nicole' hard.

"Nicole, please, don't lose yourself in this!" Tails said, flying above her,"They wouldn't want this."

"Yes, they would!" Shouted Nicole, hitting afterimages in succession, "They would want to be preserved! Why must their world be wiped? Why must they be lost to the either!?"

"They wouldn't want you to terrorize another world for their sake!" Tails shouted,"They would want you to live!"

"I'm supposed to live without them! Why?! WHY IS IT LOGICAL THAT I SHOULD BE ALIVE WHILE THE WORLDS FORGET THEM!:" 'Nicole' shouted, firing a barrage of shots.

Tails dodged and weaved through the shots,"I know it's not. It's not logical, it's not fair, but is it really fair for you to take worlds from others? Do the same that's been done to you?" He frowned, I need to get closer. As Turbo Tails, I may be able to get the chaos energy out. Maybe.

"No...it's...I..." for a moment, Nicole's eyes went blue as she reached out, "H-h-help me! Over-zxxxxzz-Crash...Can't lose...Help, please" she cried as tears began to fall while the chaos energy flowed out uncontrollably."

Tails held on to her,"Hold on tight!" He began to pull the chaos energy out of her.

Nicole let out a sigh as she felt the energy leave her. There was a tearful smile on her lips as she looked to Tails, "Thank you."

Tails hugged her,"I'm glad you're okay."

Nicole said nothing but took a few minutes to breathe slowly. She then began to cry as she took in Tails' embrace and hugged him tightly. Sniffling, she whispered, "I want to believe...thank you."

Tails nodded, before hearing some voices...

"He's slowly waking up, the bugs shorting out!"

"Go," Nicole said, "I'll be fine."

"Alright." Tails said

Tails woke up in a bed, looking up at Tekno,"What... what happened.?

Tekno frowned,"It seems one of the Metallix placed a bug on you while you weren't looking."

Amy sat next to Tails, "Are you ok?"

"I'm... shaken, but fine." Tails said, he looked around,"What happened to Blaze?"

"There was some sort of emergency from someone called Z." Tekno said,"I don't know what it was about."

Starline sighed,"Scourge, the plan has failed. Go play."

Scourge said nothing, just putting on his sunglasses and smirking. Walking away, he looked at Tails on the monitor and said, "Oh, little fox, I'm about to mess shit up!"

Sonic looked over Mushroom Hill as Tails rested,"That kid..."

"Stole your thunder," Scourge said, playing with an emerald in one hand. "You did nothing, and how does that make you feel?"

"Honestly, I'm more conflicted than anything." Sonic glared at him,"He's not my Tails, I know that much."

"What are you conflicted about?" asked Scourge

"I'm not used to him..." He looked away,"Making me proud..."

Scourge frowned and turned away, feeling his need to continue this evil plan simmer for a bit. Looking down at his fist, he clenched it and growled, "Oh sure, you say that. But they then disappoint you by betraying you at every chance, thinking that they are better than you, and then when you show off how grand you are, they still can't get off their high horse and think that they can do a better job at the ruling. It's Tails! He doesn't make you proud, he just does one thing right and fails." he ended this with a light punch at the tree.

"Excuse me!?" Sonic glared at him,"Look buddy, I may make fun of the little guy a lot, but I'm the only one allowed to do that!" He began revving up his feet.

Scourge rolled his eyes, "Oh like you care. You don't care about anyone but yourself. I care about Tails more than you, and mine's an ASS!"

"That's it, I'm through talking!" Sonic went into a spindash to slam into Scourge.

All Sonic hit was the tree, "You know, I've done my research on this place and you. I know this isn't all ya got!" Scourge mocked as he raced backward. "I want to see him."

"No." Sonic raced after him,"I refuse to let him out!"

Scourge laughed as he slowed down to punch at Sonic's face and then gut-checked him. Laughing, he added, "Then you won't win. You won't beat me, you won't beat Tails soon and if he even exists in this world, you can't beat Shadow."

Racing on ahead, he said, "You can never catch up with someone better if you keep holding back your best!"

Sonic sped forward, wincing.

He's right you know...

Let me out...

"You are no better than me!" Sonic shouted.

"HA!" Scourge said running to a small green field, "That's a laugh. I know who I am. I am proud of my strength. But you, you have a little bit of power you are holding back. Me? I'm not holding anything back."

Sonic winced as they began running around the field,"No... it's not a little bit of power..."

That's it...

Give in...

"I bet it is. I think it's small compared to every Sonic I have ever met!"

"You... don't want to see it..." He began to snarl, his eyes began to slowly glow red.

"Oh, but I do Sonny. I do, I want to see him out and about. You know what they say," Sourge laughed as he put his nose close to Sonic's, "Better out of the closet than in, right?"

"Fine." Sonic closed his eyes, before opening them to reveal a pair of eyes with several red circles in them,"You called down the thunder!?" He let out a yell, body glowing gold,"Now you've got it!" He slammed a foot into Scourge's face.

Scourge bearly had a chance to say a cheer before the foot met face and sent him flying into a tree. Letting out a moan of pain, he said, "Now, that's more like it. Come on crazy," trying to ignore the severe pain going through his face and the numb feeling in his nose. Shaking his head, he wiped the blood from his nose.

Super Sonic appeared in front of him,"Okay." He grabbed him by the foot and spun him around.

"Ok, now I think I'm starting to see a problem with my plan heeeeeeeere!" shouted Scrouge.

Tails flew out of the workshop, only to find Scourge slamming into the ground in front of him,"Hey Scourge. Did you make Sonic mad, or did you end up meeting Big who's probably a pirate in this world?"

Scourge slowly got back to his feet, trying to ignore the dizziness in his head. Reaching over to his right arm, he winced as he slammed his arm back into the socket. Groaning, he looked back at Tails and said, "No, I think my plan to let Sonic go super in this world may have backfired a little. I think I let out a demon."

Tekno gasped,"You let Super Sonic out!?"

Amy growled,"Not Super Sonic!"

An armored squirrel landed in the field,"Did someone say Super Sonic?"

Tails blinked,"What? It's just Super Sonic."

There was a long pause.

Tekno sighed,"I'm gonna hedge my bets and say Super Sonic's not evil in your universe."

Tails frowned,"He's not evil in any other universe! He's just Sonic but Super."

"Of course, we ended up getting the short end of that stick." Tekno groaned.

"Yeah, sucks to be you, hun. Better confess to the pink hedgie while you can," Scourge said. "Because I just let out your worse nightmare. But hey, it's your crappy universe."

"I... what!?" Tekno stammared.

"Hey, this world may be different, but it's not crappy!" Tails glared at Scourge.

"Um," The armored squirrel raised a finger,"Not that I don't mind a good argument, but we still have a problem here!"

"No, you guys have a problem- what is up with the armored squirrel- I can just leave as soon..." Scourge paused as he looked through his pockets.

Super Sonic chuckled as he looked at Scourge's wallet, "Man his girlfriend is ugly."

"I'm Shortfuse the Cybernik." He leaned into Scourge's face,"In a minute, for causing this mess, I'm about to beat the snot out of you."

Tails frowned,"No, we need to focus on Stupid Sonic. Tekno, you've been through multiple universes, right?"

"Yes, why?" Tekno cocked her head.

"I have an idea, but it's gonna require us making a little trip. Mister Cybernik?" He asked the squirrel, who had slammed Scourge into the ground,"How strong are you?"

Shortfuse pumped his fists,"I'm nearly invincible. I'm guessing you want me to distract him?" He grabbed Scourge by a quill,"Alright. You're helping Arse."

"Hey, ow! Watch the quill, I'm sensitive there!" Scourge said, before growling, "And why in the same of me, should I help you? and what kind of name is Shortfuse anyway? Did your dad find out your mom was cheating on him with three other guys and called out that in revenge?"

"My real name is Shorty," Shortfuse said,"And you caused this mess, you're helping us to finish it."

"You and what army, ya limp noodle?" asked Scourge.

"I am an army." Shorty said.

"Really? So am I." Super Sonic floated above them.

Scourge looked at the squirrel, and then back at Super Sonic, and then stood behind the squirrel and said, "Hit him first!"

Shorty turned to Scourge,"Hey!"

"Okay." Super Sonic punched Shortfuse in the face, sending him flying.

Scourge ran to the distance, "Yeah, punch him! Kick him in the balls! You can hurt him if you really try!"

"Really?" Super Sonic said beside Scourge.

Scourge squeaked and then ran back to Shorty. Grabbing his arm, he began to try and use it, "Come on! Does this thing have any weapons?!"

"I do if you'd give me a minute!" Shorty shouted, trying to pull away.

Super Sonic scoffed,"Come on, Scourge, you asked for me to go out, and now you're hiding behind a guy with a silly name?"

"Oh, shove off!" Shorty said.

"Yeah and I'm also being smart and using a tool," Scourge said.

"The only tool around here is you!" Shorty shouted.

"Do I even need to do anything?" Super Sonic laughed.

"Yeah, DIE!" Scourge said, kicking the squirrel e like a soccer ball at Super Sonic.

Shortfuse slammed into Super Sonic.

Super Sonic grabbed him and tossed him at Scourge like a baseball

Time slowed down as Scourge began to use his super speed. He ran to a nearby sporting goods store and grabbed a baseball bat. Racing back to the field, he knocked Shortfuse back with his baseball bat and broke it in half. Only then did he realize a steel bat would be a good weapon and began to run back.

Super Sonic flew back, catching Shortfuse before tossing him back. The squirrel landed on a baseball field.

Scourge grabbed his metal bat and ran back using every inch of his super speed to slam the metal bat upside Super Sonic's head at least ten times.

Super Sonic slowly turned to Scourge,"Now, was that supposed to do something?"

Scourge chuckled, "Um, convince you to join a loser baseball team as a rookie, win several games for them, only to lose your powers at the end, then they learn that the true strength is inside of them all along, so then they win the big game, while you get the hot squirrel princess as a wife while she reveals she's pregnant because of that hot PG-13 love scene between you two?"

"Hot squirrel-" Super Sonic shook his head before punching Scourge.

"OUCH! My nose, you broke my nose! You ruined my modeling career!" Scourge shouted before stepping back and waiting.

"As if you had a career?" Super Sonic said.

"Not yet..."Scourge said.

"Not anytime, because you're going to die!" Super Sonic's eyes began to glow.

"What, you got eye beams or something?" asked Scourge, "Because that doesn't make you unique, it makes you really lame. Like, you know how many cool people have eyebeams, no one."

"Yep!" He fired eye beams at him.

Scourge dodged and ran at him, pushing Super Sonic into the tree before running back.

Another set of eyebeams came at Scourge, only for Shortfuse to blast the beams with beams of his own from his gauntlets.

"Darn it, you didn't kill the squirrel?!" asked Scourge.

Shortfuse shouted,"Why couldn't you have gotten rid of this guy!?" He indicated Scourge.

Super Sonic laughed,"You make me grin with your idiotic antics!" Then he noticed something in the corner of his eye,"Wait..."

"Oh please tell me it's Tails with something like, I don't know, leastinite!?" said Scourge

Super Sonic stared at the blue hedgehog down on the ground. The blue hedgehog had a thick bushy mustache and small spectacles,"No way, Uncle Chuck?"

"Hey there sonny," Uncle Chuck said, adjusting his spectacles, "How about you come here and we can have a talk."

Scourge ran to Tails and frowned, "THAT'S your plan? Get the old man to save us all? What do you think someone like that needs a warm talk and a good...figure to..." he shook his head. "This isn't gonna work!"

Tails smirked as he raised a hand,"Oh, now I know it's gonna work."

Super Sonic flew down to him,"I thought you were dead." He laughed,"What, come to admonish me?"

"No, just talk," Uncle Chuck said, offering a seat. "You just seem to be working through a lot right now, and I want to offer an ear for you to listen."

"Ear? I don't need an ear!" He raised a hand, stopping himself

"You look like you do," Chuck said, "You are getting all worked up when you know this isn't you. I know that the hedgehog I raised is nothing like this, he is a good person at heart even if he doesn't think so sometimes."

"Shut up." He raised another hand, before stopping,"Why... why can't..."

Chuck took Sonic's hand, "Because I didn't raise a killer. I rose a good boy. Arrogant, sure, but that doesn't make you evil or cruel. It makes you stand out and proud of who you are."

A few tears ran down Super Sonic's eye,"Damn it..." His eyes began turning green and his color began to turn back to blue,"Uncle Chuck... I can't...

Uncle Chuck quietly gave him a hug, holding him tightly.

Sonic cried into his arms,"I'm sorry, Uncle Chuck. I wasn't fast enough... I wasn't fast enough to save you, wasn't fast enough to stop him, wasn't fast enough to save Johnny..."

"It's ok," Uncle Chuck said, patting Sonic on the back, "You can't save everyone, just who you can.

Sonic began sobbing into Chuck's shoulder.

"T-that, worked?" Scourge asked in disbelief.

"Knew it would." Tails said,"The only person Sonic would never backtalk to."

Scourge raised a finger and tried to say something. But as he tried to speak, his mind began to think of an older hedgehog who gave him his first jacket. The one who kept telling him that it was ok to be mean, rotten, and bad as long as it helped take down the losers giving you grief. Slowly, he backed away and said nothing.

Tails turned back to Uncle Chuck,"Ready to go home?"

He held Sonic for a bit longer, and then stood up, "Take good care of yourself, Sonny."

Sonic nodded for a second,"I will, Uncle Chuck..."

Uncle Chuck began to walk towards Tails, before giving Scourge a hug and whispering, "He's proud of you too, Scourge."

"Y-yeah, whatever," Scourge said with a frown.

Tails flew down to Sonic.

Sonic turned away,"You're terrible, you know that?" He sighed,"I didn't want to show that side to myself."

"What, that you have a sensitive side?" Tails snarked.

"Yes." Sonic said,"I'm the world's hero. I'm the one thing standing between this world and Robotnik. I want to show that I'm invincible."

"You don't have to, you know?" Tails sighed,"Can I be honest? I'm not your biggest fan. But... I came to understand you a lot better after a while. I don't like you that much, but I respect who you are as a hero to this world." Tails then flew up,"I think you're a jerk, but you still have a heart like many Sonics I met."

"Hmph, thank you for that, Tails." Sonic turned away.

"Well, at least I got a thank you!" Tails grinned before a bright flash.

He found himself at a music desk near a stage,"And now, Sonic Underground!"

"Oh boy."Tails moaned.

Notes:

A/N: I hope this isn't too overcomplicated or bad. It's been a while since I read the Fleetway stuff and I hope I didn't make it come off too horrible.
The rules for the Nameless Zone aren't exactly clear, so I didn't know if Morain had a way back or not.
Why no, Tails isn't echoing my thoughts on these iterations of Sonic at all! Just like that Variant!Nicole isn't representative of my bitterness over the cancellation of Post-Reboot Archie Sonic!
Yes I know that Uncle Chuck doesn't exist officially in the Fleetway universe, but I figured that there were already parallels between Archie and Fleetway, why not imagine that this Sonic had an Uncle Chuck who died?
I hope Fleetway Sonic isn't too harsh. I know he has a reputation, but I read all the issues and that reputation's kinda exaggerated. He can be a massive jerk but he does have good moments.
One final thing: I didn't make up Archie-verse Tekno. Tekno does make a cameo appearance in issue #134 of the Preboot Archie comics! She's even mentioned by name! Ebony and Shortfuse also make appearances in that issue. This has been your useless comic book trivia.

Chapter 5: Underground Part 1

Chapter Text

Sonic stepped out, holding his hand to his medallion and summoning a guitar. With a smirk, he looked back at Tails and asked, "Ready little guy?"

A green hedgehog with a mohawk nodded and chuckled as a drum set appeared in front of him, and he began to twirl his drumsticks in his fingers, "Well duh. Tails-man was born for this. It's not like this is the biggest concert of his life."

"No, it's just a fun little show," a magenta hedgehog said, standing in front of her piano and running her fingers along the keys. After blinking his eyes at the two hedgehogs for a second, Tails would note that the two other hedgehogs in the room looked like Sonic if one would change his quill colors or give him a mohawk.

Sonic stepped out and strummed his guitar, the various animals shouting and cheering

"Let's rock this joint!" Sonic said.

The green hedgehog started to beat on his drums like a heartbeat and smirked as the rhythm started to kick into high gear.

Empire, Empire, is everything they say

And no place that I'd rather be

Where else can you do a half a million things

All at a quarter to three

When they play their music, ooh that modern music

They like it with a lot of style

But it's still that same old back beat rhythm

That really, really drives 'em wild

They say the heart of rock and roll is still beating

And from what I've seen I believe 'em

Now the old boy may be barely breathing

But the heart of rock and roll, heart of rock and roll is still beating

The animals started to move along with the beat, while others started to thump their paws against the ground as the music moved into second gear. On the stage, the green hedgehog smirked and whispered to Tails, "OK little guy, work your magic!"

Tails nodded, Okay, sure, let me just wing it! He proceeded to press buttons on the machine, hoping to get the desired effects.

The room bathed itself in a bright blinding pink light, eclipsed in fire. The pink hedgehog began to strut down the walkway as a firey lion walked behind her, her outfit magically turned into a slim nightgown.

I made it through the wilderness

Somehow I made it through

Didn't know how lost I was until I found you

I was beat, incomplete

I'd been had, I was sad and blue, but you made me feel

Yeah, you made me feel shiny and new, hoo!

At this, she brushed her hair back with a flourish, causing most of the male animals (Plus three females and one questioning) to cheer.

Like a virgin

Touched for the very first time

Like a virgin

When your heart beats next to mine

She said this last part with a wink as she walked back across the stage, giving Tails a quick nod as she strutted. Seeing that as his cure, Tails quickly began to hit his fingers across the keys in an attempt to continue to make something happen.

The green hedgehog let out a howl as he started to beat on the drum base, changing the beat in perfect time. As he did, the special effects began to glow the area green while the ground began to grow flowers. Taking his solo, the green hedgehog started to belt out

Oh, Superman, where are you now

When everything's gone wrong somehow?

The men of steel, the men of power

Are losing control by the hour

This is the time, this is the place

So we look for the future

But there's not much love to go 'round

Tell me why this is a land of confusion

This is the world we live in (oh, oh, oh)

And these are the hands we're given (oh, oh, oh)

Use them and let's start trying (oh, oh, oh)

To make it a place worth living in

The wind, earth, and fire began to mix as the three siblings began to play in harmony. The three united on stage as they started to belt out the music even louder than before. Above their heads, the three colors began to form into a beautiful purple female hedgehog wearing a royal gown. One audience member could be heard shouting "Whoa, the queen is a total MILF!"

Ignoring the comment the three began to play a song in perfect rocking harmony.

One more depending on a prayer

And we all look away

People pretending everywhere

It's just another day

There's bullets flying through the air

And they still carry on

We watch it happen over there

And then just turn it off

Hey, yeah, yeah, hey, yeah

We must stand together

Hey, yeah, yeah, hey, yeah

There's no giving in

Hey, yeah, yeah, hey, yeah

A hand in hand forever

Hey, yeah, yeah, hey, yeah

That's when we all win

Sonic stepped out with a bow and shouted, "THANK YOU! GOODIGHT!" and then he walked back to give the tired Tails a high five, "Fantastic little bro."

Tails laughed,"Eh heh, thanks..."

.The pink hedgehog smiled as she walked towards the group, her instrument long disappearing. Pressing her finger to her ear, she smiled as she said, "Just got word, it's all set and we're good to go."

"Awesome sis!" Manic said, pulling out the keys, "So what say we get to the van and get out of here before the real fireworks start?"

"Manic, wait, you and Sonia start the car and get moving," Sonic said, holding up his hands. "How long did Cyrus say it would take?"

"A minute so we need to leave no-" Before Sonia could finish though, the wind blew through her hair as a blur went by. Rolling her eyes she grumbled and took Tails by the hand, "Come on little guy."

Tails let her lead him,Okay, so in this world, Sonic has two siblings. Must be Robotnik's nightmare.

Sonic raced through the streets of Empire city, finding a box of chilidogs waiting for him. Licking his lips, he picked up the box and began to run back. While he ran, a small flyer floated in front of his face.

Station Square Rock Festival

Come for fun, competition, and food.

A special battle of the bands will be held for all entrants with a

Chaotic Prize one won't forget.

"Nice, great way to chillax," Sonic said, running off as a large explosion rocked the town.

(Robotnik's palace, evil deeds done at your expense.)

A large orange animal that could be scarcely called a Dingo walked with a skinny jackal, tapping his fingers in worry," Oh, Robotnik is not going to like this."

"Yes, if there is one thing I hate doing is giving the master bad news," the Jackal said.

"Oi! Sleet, I want to give him the bad news. You never let me give Robotnik bad news! I wanna I wanna!" Dingo said, crying and kicking the wall.

Sleet put his head onto his open palm and looked at his side with a glance that said 'This is too easy." Turning back to look at his large compatriot he said, "Why sure old friend, you can give Lord Robotnik, he of the long and curtious temperament, the bad news."

"Oh boy oh boy" Dingo said, walking into the throne room.

Robotnik sat in his large chair, pressing his fingers together as he looked at the monitors. His flesh and metal fingers lightly tapped as he heard footsteps, "Report!"

"Well, you know that new plant you installed in Empire City. The one you said would provide power to the nobles there but actually stole power and was just a new power plant for you and you alone. And it was also a robotization plant?"

"Yes?" Dr. Robotnik said, growling.

"Well, it seems that the resistance blew it up. That whole concert thing was a distraction after all and we fell for it." Dingo said.

...

BLAM!

As Robotnik looked at Dingo running around with his pants on fire, he said, "Get your coward of a partner here immediately! "

Sleet's eyes widened,"Um... Yes sir?"

"Do you know how long those rebels have been allowed to attack and gain ground in my world? Three years. Three years I have been dealing with these upgraded attacks on my rule. And do you know who is responsible for this?" Robotnik asked.

"The hedgehogs sire?" asked Dingo.

"Those BLASTED HEDGEHOGS!" Robotnik said, slamming his fist against the console. "I have had to deal with their infernal messages of hope and peace for too long. What's worse, I DESPISE THEIR INSIPID ROCK AND ROLL!" Slowly getting back up to his feet, he started to walk around the room. "It is about time we start to make changes in the way I rule around here. Computer, send messages to the most powerful of the nobles, heads of all the main houses, and tell them to come here!"

The computer blipped for a few seconds, then responded with a little girl's voice, "Yes, Robotnik."

"Next, I want you and Dingo to meet up with a new bounty hunter I hired. You three have some...items to get. He will give you the details," Robotnik said.

Sonia, holding a small cup of tea in one hand, walked through the RV towards where Tails sat, happily eating his chili dogs and drinking a mint milkshake, "So, you are not our Tails, but a Tails that came from an alternate dimension and is now inhabiting the body. While our Tails is back in your world and you are trying to find your way home."

"Woah," Manic said, driving with only half his mind on the road, "Just way too much science info bro. Could ya', maybe clear it up for the non-brainy dudes?" this elicited a laugh from Sonic as he strummed his guitar.

"Okay," Tails said,"Your Tails' brain has been swapped with mine."

Oh, ok man," Manic said, nodding. "Sonic says the same thing about me all the time."

Sonic rolled his eyes as he strummed his guitar, "And as for our backstory...

Tails sat back, listening intently to the song.

Triplets born, the throne awaits

A seer warns of a deadly fate

Give up your children, separate

Bide your time, lie in wait!

Slowly, but surely the triplets added their voices to the song. All the while the opening credits play.

Sonic Underground! (Sonic!)

We made a vow, Our mother will be found!

The children grow, learn what's right!

Leaders of the freedom fight!

We seek our mother, she knows they do!

Is it time? If she only knew!

Will the prophecy come true!?

Alena walked through a forested area. Sitting down, she brushed past some leaves and foilage to expose a glowing light blue gem. Turning her head o the sky she whispered.

I long for my children, but I have to wait.

To act too soon could seal their fate.

Tails nodded along,"I see. This is kind of a lot to take in, I'm not used to Sonic being a prince..."

"What, I'm not a prince in the other world?" asked Sonic.

Manic looked down a little, muttering under his breath, "Must be nice."

"Yeah, you're not... you're also an only child as far as I know." Tails said.

There was a small quiet in the room for a minute, as the trio tried to comprehend a world where they were not together. Manic looked down again as he began to remember how excited he was not to be alone, to have a true family in his siblings, but a world without them was something that left a bad taste in his mouth. Sonia, for her part, held her tea cup in hand and just looked down at the swirling water. Lady Windemere, for her part, tried to be the family Sonia needed, but there was always something more with Sonic and Manic. Subtly, she closed her eyes, thinking about it.

Sonic, on the other hand, just laughed it off, "Eh, at least we're all here together here!"

"Y-yeah," Sonia said, nodding.

Sonic then went back to strumming his guitar, inwardly thinking "Though, one of these days...we might have to leave each other anyway. Must be nice not being a prince and worrying about responsibility at all, just being free."

Breaking the silence for a bit, Maniac called out, "So, Sonia, you seem okay with this little competition. Thought you would be the first to say it sounds like a trap."

"I'm not," Sonia said, laying the flyer down on the ground, "Whoever did this, knew who they were looking for. I put this under a water test and found the seal of the resistance on it. Not to mention, but look at how it's colored."

Sonic walked forward, as Manic could be heard saying, "Hey, describe a little will ya? Can't see while driving!"

"Well, let Tails drive," Sonic said. "He's been meaning to drive something for a while."

"Fine man," Manic said, getting out of his seat, he then motioned to Tails for him to take his turn.

"Okay!" Tails hopped in and began to drive it,"Station Square again... hopefully there won't be a big water monster..." He muttered.

"What was that?"

"Nothing." Tails said, Don't want to jinx it...

Sonia nodded and looked back at the pamphlet, "Look at the way certain letters are colored."

"Don't know sis," Manic said, scratching his head, "Looks random to me."

"Ah, but look at certain letters," Sonia said, pointing at various letters. "Some are colored magenta, some green, and some blue."

"Yeah, wait," Sonic said, "Those are our colors."

Sonia smiled, "Yep. This means that this is somehow connected to the resistance. They wanted us to find it, and they wanted us to come to Station Square. Why? I don't know."

"Because they know they need us. After all," Sonic said, jumping back onto the couch and playing with a pic while throwing a chili dog into the air and eating it in one gulp. "We make the resistance look good!"

"Sure," Sonia said, rolling her eyes, "Let's go with that."

Manic looked back up at his triplet, "So, what's unique about this Station Square place?"

"Well," Sonia said, "I've always heard that it's one of the few places left that Robotnik hasn't touched. Mainly because a lot of the nobility have paid him not to put anything big here. So things like singing, dancing, and fun are allowed. Everything Robotnik has taken is there."

"It's why the resistance calls it the last great free city," Sonic said, smiling, "Always wanted to see it, but I didn't want Buttnik finding us and destroy it."

"Aw, that's so courteous," Sonia said, smiling.

"I wonder who keeps paying off Robotnik to leave it alone?" Tails asked.

"Some say some of the richest people on Mobeius, some said it's a secret cabal of people who are wanting a place to keep some neutrality," Sonia said, "And some even think it might be some of the old rulers before our family came into power."

"Yeah, weren't there other kingdoms around?" asked Sonic.

Sonia nodded, "Yeah, some like the Acorn family, or like the ninja families."

"Acorn, I know that name!"

"You do?" asked Sonic. "Not many remember. After something happened in the kingdom, they kind of just vanished off the map."

"Oh..." Tails winced.

"They important in your world?" asked Sonic.

"Yeah. The Princess led the Freedom Fighters." Tails said.

They all blinked in surprise at this as the road before them continued on.

Scourge looked at Starline for a second, his eyes wide in shock, "Please, explain, the plan, again."

"We are going to participate in that Battle of the Bands." Starline leaned back,"We should take a more background approach to this world. Mainly because there is something I need to figure out."

Scourge gave an odd look to Starlline, and then back to his girl Fiona. The fox lady giggled at this and shrugged, which led Scourge to look back at Starline and ask, "What are you trying to figure out, and what is up with that helmet?" he added, pointing to a box helm with LEDs on it.

Starline spun around,"I WILL MAKE SURE THAT THIS WORLD IS AWARE OF MY FANTASTIC SINGING VOICE!" He coughed,"Also, I need to figure out why we are being followed by that fox."

"...You really don't get out much, do you?" asked Scourge.

"I'm simply a very cultured platypus!" Starline said.

Scourge could only facepalm at this, "This is going to be a painful adventure."

"Come, I have outfits for both of you!" Starline said.

Scourge whimpered, "Please tell me they look good.

Sleet looked at his new companion,"What was your name again?"

"Nack," the weasel said, tipping his hat. "Robotnik said he would pay good money to help you find the queen and then get the 'Prize'. What does your boss even have planned?"

"I don't know. I'm just here to do my job." Sleet said with a frown,"Though with all that I've been through, I'm considering quitting.

Dino gasped, "Oh no, Sleet, you can't mean that."

"Well think! How much have we gotten paid to do a job that we've been failing for three years!?" Sleet said,"Add on to that, we keep getting abused by our boss all the time! I mean, I'm mean to you, but that's me!"

"Wait, abuse as in actual physical or more of a sibling 'light slap and make you do the work when you are lazy abuse?" Nack asked.

"The latter. That's because Sleet says he does it out of respect for me," Dingo said, "But Sleet we...and wee...well...You are right, we've been paid nothing."

"Exactly! I swear, the first chance I get, I'm betraying that fat egg..."

Nack looked a little confused, "Wait, how much had he been paying you two? Because he promised me 2000 Robotnik bucks."

"Wha-" Sleet's eye twitched,"2000...

Nack nodded, "Yeah, he promised me that. What, did he promise you less?"

"... Yes..." Sleet moaned.

"How much less," asked Nack.

"None at all..."

Nack slapped his face, "And this is why I was the best."

Sleet began to grumble,"Never get any respect.

Dingo smiled, "Awww, I respect ya, Sleet."

"Thanks..."

"Now that's what I like to see, big smiles!" Dingo said, hugging both of his teammates.

"This is gonna suck." Sleet muttered.

Aleena sighed as she pulled out the light blue emerald. In a way, the color and the way it reflected the light made her think of the eldest of her triplets. Opening the pouch, she slipped the small gem into her pack with two other gems, one a dark purple and the other a bright yellow. As she made sure that each emerald was safe and secure, she stood up to her full height and whispered to herself, "Three down. Just four more to we can be together my children."

SEveral spotlights shone on her as a robotic voice spoke,"Priority:Queen Aleena spotted.

Aleena let out a gasp and backed away slowly, looking for an exit. Turning around, she began to run into the woods.

Several bullets came after her as a red robot with the number E-102 followed her.

Aleena slid down a small hill and ran to a nearby tree, reaching into a stump. Then she looked at some of the robots and pulled out a laser rifle to shoot at some of the air cars. Watching as the shots bearly worked on them, she turned to keep running. Occasionally, she would turn to fire a shot at 102, "Robotnik must be getting angrier, he's never gone this far before."

Looking down at her pouch, she quickly began to think of a hiding place, "Just got to get away from that robot!"

Several metallic footsteps followed her, before another barrage of gunshots.

Seeing a rock, she rolled behind it and began to dig a small hole, "Gotta hide these," she said, putting the emeralds into the hole.

E-102 came forward before a group of flickies flew by. It paused, staring at the birds flying away.

Aleena paused, watching the robot to watch the robots fly by. For a moment, she thought to herself, "Does he have an animal inside him? Is he... remembering?" For a moment, she forgot to run from the killer robot as her mind began to think.

E-102 turned back to her and aimed his gun at her.

Aleena threw a rock into his gun before running off.

The gun exploded in the robot's hand, causing it to step back,"Unit Damaged. Must return for repairs."

"And that is why you don't mess with the queen," Aleena said, turning around.

A large black robot with the number E-101 Beta was right behind her.

Aleena then turned and ran as the shots began to ring out.

A blue robot appeared near her.

"Oh come on!"

The robot aimed a gun at her.

Aleena ducked, trying to let the robots shoot each other as she ran to climb up a tree.

There was the sound of bullets hitting metal.

A green robot was in the tree,"Hello."

Aleena slowly said, "Hello..."

"You are Queen Aleena." The robot said.

"Yes," she said, backing away.

"I'mma take you down now." The robot said.

"No," Aleena said, jumping from the tree branch and back down to the ground, running off. Stopping to hide, she panted and sat down to rest for a bit. Looking around she said, "What is Robotnik after? He's never gone this hard before."

A hand grabbed at her from behind the tree she rested at.

"GAH!" Aleena said, struggling.

A maniacal laughter was heard as Robotnik's voice came over a speaker from the robot,"There you are, Queenie."

"You would think a fellow ruler would know how to show respect, rather than calling me queenie!" Said Aleena, "What's the matter? Too fat to get out of your own chair?"

"I see where the blue one gets his attitude from." Robotnik snarled,"I'm sorry, you don't get respect based on the fact that you are no longer ruling anything!"

"Last I checked, still alive, still ruling, and still an inspiration," Aleena said. She stuck her tongue out and then said. "You are the one on your last legs!"

"And yet you're in my clutches," Robotnik said.

Aleena could only glare at him "So what are you gonna do to me?"

"Toss you down a ravine, record it, and then make your kids watch."

"...A ravine is new," Aleena said.

"I really want you dead." Robotnik said.

"You seem sure this will break my children," Aleena said, narrowing her eyes.

"Oh, I know it will..."

Queen Aleena narrowed her eyes, "Then do, Humpty."

She was then tossed into a ravine.

Queen Aleena did not scream, she just began to move her body slightly. Using her shoulder as a brace, she hit the rocky side and landed for the water. Taking a deep breath, she allowed the water to sweep er away down below.

"Target neutralized, Sire," the young girl voice said.

"Good." Robotnik smiled,"Soon, it'll all be over..." He let out a laugh.

Knuckles sat on top of one of the pillars of rock that stood on the island. Taking a deep breath of the air of the floating island and the jungle around him below, he leaped off to glide to the ground for his rounds. Hearing the sounds of the jungle below made him think of his own loneliness of being the sole guardian of the island and his duties. And three hedgehogs who showed him a better life.

Whatever you do, I'll do it too

Show me everything and tell me how

It all means something

And yet nothing to me

Landing on the ground below, he put his palms to the ground and got ready to race through the forest. The trees passed by him quickly as he ran, panting as he could imagine a hedgehog running with him through the trees with the wind at their backs.

I can see there's so much to learn

It's all so close and yet so far

I see myself as people see me

Oh, I just know there's something bigger out there

With a big laugh, he leaped off the cliff and glided from the top to the bottom, letting the wind take him wherever the drafts would guide him and his body.

I wanna know, can you show me?

I wanna know about these strangers like me

Tell me more, please show me

Something's familiar about these strangers like me

Landing on the ground below, he saw something pink pass him by. Curious, and a little longingly, he walked to it in the hopes of seeing someone special

Every gesture, every move that she makes

Makes me feel like never before

Why do I have

This growing need to be beside her?

Sonia smiled as she sat by the log, looking at him. Warming, comfortingly. Their hands nearing each other.

Ooh, these emotions I never knew

Of some other world far beyond this place

Beyond the trees, above the clouds

Oh, I see before me a new horizon

Knuckles ran a little faster toward the pink blur he had seen, hearing the song picking up its pace as he ran with it.

I wanna know, can you show me?

I wanna know about these strangers like me

Tell me more, please show me

Something's familiar about these strangers like me

Stopping, he frowned when he only saw a flamingo talking to her sister, and he leaned to the side. His mind was off once more, to a memory of a time not too long ago. Of a time he would take the hand of a female hedgehog and lead her to the topmost canopy of the island.

Come with me now to see my world

Where there's beauty beyond your dreams

Blue eyes met dark purple as they reached the top, and for a moment, they felt something. They stayed to look at each other and their hands began to get closer. In the present, Knuckles sighed and asked.

Can you feel the things I feel

Right now, with you?

As he sang the next lyric, he remembered how he took her hand, and they glided together.

Take my hand

There's a world I need to know

Knuckles broke out of his memory and looked up, deciding to climb the mountainside towards where his destination lay.

I wanna know, can you show me?

I wanna know about these strangers like me

Tell me more, please show me

Something's familiar about these strangers like me

I wanna know

Knuckles finished his singing, reaching the cliff hole and the slide. Slipping down, he reached the hidden palace of the island where the Master Emerald lay waiting on the shrine. A shrine dedicated to harmony that would never again be destroyed by greed or hate. Running his hand through his red dredlocks, he said to himself, "Athair, it's hard, you know."

A voice said,"It's about to get harder, boy."

Knuckles got into a fighting stance, looking around for the source of the voice. His heart stopped cold when he heard blood dripping, "What did you do to Chomps?"

A white echidna wearing a black cloak came into view, and behind him was the body of a dinosaur,"He was in my way."

Knuckles got into a fighting stance, narrowing his eyes, "Who are you?"

"I am Dr. Finitevus." He bowed,"I'm here to unravel the threads of fate."

"What do you mean," Knuckles said, walking around the doctor, keeping his eyes on him and never getting out of his stance. "No one can do that. We can only see the threads, we can't change them."

"Actually, you won't change them." Dr. Finitevus said," You're allowing yourself to be beholden to some prophecies given by old men."

"Prophecies that are true. The Oracle has never been wrong and neither has my grandfather," Knuckles said, glaring at Fintevus, "I can't change them because who knows what happens when we do."

Finitevus smiled,"Shame." He slammed a fist into the Master Emerald,"I don't like following prophecies. I prefer causing... Chaos."

"Don't you dare touch that!"Knuckles said, gliding at Fintevius with a right hook.

Finitevus threw up a ring portal and then used another to redirect Knuckles' fist into the Master Emerald,"Thank you."

"Thank you?"

"You smashed the emerald for me."

Knuckles paused in horror before turning around to watch as the spiderweb cracks began to form on the master emerald, "Oh...no." he whispered under his breath.

The cracks began to get bigger and bigger until the emerald shattered with a loud crash. Emerald shards flew all over the hallowed ground, embedding them into the rocks and pillars. From within the center, a bright light blasted out from the center while a little orb escaped.

Elsewhere, Dingo shouted, "Hey Sleet! Look look, I found the emeralds!" he said, clapping his hands.

"You moron, you couldn't. Not without the emeral-" Sleet paused, seeing three lights shine out from the small little mound of dirt. Smirking, he said, "Ha! Never send a bunch of robots to do a bounty hunter's job."

As this continued, Knuckles backed away in horror, unable to move as he could feel the chaotic energy begin to spread out.

The oracle was blown back by the surge, shaking his head as he looked at the orb in front of him, "No, no. This cannot be. This shouldn't be allowed to happen! "

In Soleanna, a swan looked on in amazement as she said, "And the emerald just began to flash?" She asked as she watched the emerald begin to glow and throb.

"Yes, your highness. And what's more we can confirm six other chaotic energy signatures flowing out,"

Knuckled turned to Fintaveus and growled, "Do you know what you have done? You have unleashed chaos upon the world! Who knows what's going to happen to Mobius now!?"

Dr. Finitevus smirked,"Oh, I know." He turned and walked away,"I'm just going to enjoy the fireworks."

"No, you get back here," Knuckles said racing out to try and punch him.

Unfortunately, Finitevus had already left through the portal.

"Damn!" Knuckles aid, slamming his fist into the ground and making a small crack. Any other expletives he had to say were interrupted by the sound of the island crashing into the water. Taking a quick step outside, he took a deep breath of relief when he saw that the island was conveniently near a body of water and no one was hurt. Taking a look off into the distance, he flew off to a nearby rocky mountainside.

"And that's the story grandfather," Knuckles said to the old echidna as he sat before the fire.

"This is indeed troubling," Athair said, taking his cane and walking around the cave, "Long has our people been the guardian of the floating island and the master emerald. And long have we been the ones to make sure that the monster has been held back within its gem."

"And I busted it. I went in without thinking," Knuckles said, clenching his fist.

"And now Chaos is unleashed," Athair sighed, "He will begin to spread his tendrils throughout the world, searching for the emeralds to gain power. At that point, he will devastate the planet."

"But, what about Robotnik, the council of four? What about Son-" Knuckles paused, not wanting to make it sound like he was putting one above the others.

Althair narrowed his eyes, "There is no prophecy, not anymore. The strings of fate have been severed and the world has changed. I cannot even see past tomorrow as it stands now."

"What do I do then? Just wait out the disaster?" asked Knuckles.

Athair shook his head and looked to Knuckles, "You must go to Station Square, the nearest city. They have one of the seven. Then find the royal siblings, perhaps by working together you can slow the destruction, or even stop it. For if not the seven lights can stop him...perhaps three golden lights can."

"Come on, I can run faster than this!" Sonic said, "We could've been in the city hours ago!"

"Look, I'm just saying we shouldn't be racing out, ruining our tires just because you are impatient!" Sonia argued as the Radio began to turn on.

We built this city

We built this city on rock and roll

Built this city

We built this city on rock and roll

Manic smiled as he looked out, "Wait sibs, we're here!"

As they rolled on seeing the big lights of the city, the various animals began to sing and dance

Say you don't know me or recognize my face

Say you don't care who goes to that kind of place

Knee deep in the hoopla, sinking in your fight

Too many runaways eating up the night

Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don't you remember?

We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll

Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll

Someone's always playing corporation games

Who cares, they're always changing corporation names

We just want to dance here, someone stole the stage

They call us irresponsible, write us off the page

Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don't you remember?

We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll

Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll

"So, who are we supposed to meet to enter the contest," Sonic asked..

As the group stepped out, a coyote walked up to them,"Zat would be moi, Antoine D'Coolette."

"Is...that a toupee?" asked Sonic as he got ff the van.

"Sonic, you don't say that," Sonia said, getting down next, "Forgive my brother Monsieur Antoine."

"Zat's quite alright. I am familiar with your brother's... rashness." Antoine muttered,"I am ze proprietor of Station Square, and the one holding ze event."

"Wow, you got so many people here," Manic said. "The prize must be something else.

"Oui, it is!" Antoine grinned,"It eez quite a remarkable... well, I'll zat be a surprise."

Tails then said,"Is it a Chaos Emerald?"

"..." Antoine stared at him.

"I'm very smart." Tails said

Sonic laughed and rubbed Tail's head, "Can't put anything past him really."

"Wait, a chaos emerald? How, when, why?" asked Sonia in utter shock

"Well, we so happened to have found it on an expedition," Antoine said.

Sonic shook her head, "Do you realize how lucky that was? They are all supposed to have been hidden for millennia."

Tails muttered something about,"Yeah, whatever..."

Antoine smiled,"Of course it's lucky! That's why we want to use it as a prize!"

"How can you be so sure it'll be safe until then?"

Antoine smirked,"Well, I do have a lot of bodyguards, also mi Papa has managed to stave off Dr. Robotnik's gaze over this place."

Sonia nodded, "Your poppa must be very smart to keep Robotnik from finding out about the emerald." she said, looking around.

"Yeah, but he lacks the proper security detail and you really need to hire better bodyguards," Manic said, holding the white gem in his hand, "You know if this wasn't so powerful I bet I could get about 25, 500 mobiums for it or Robotnik bucks."

"Manic!" Sonia yelled, tapping her foot as her brother chuckled and threw the gem back to Antoine, just to watch him squirm as he tried to juggle it. "Sonic, I thought you were keeping an eye on him."

"I blinked, I blinked for five seconds and he was already gone!" Sonic said, before standing with his little brother, "And besides, it's a good way to investigate their security detail, right, find weaknesses."

Sonia facepalmed, and rubbed her temples, "Monsieur Antoine, my apologies for my brothers. They may be royals, but they are also royal pains! I can assure you that they will be on their best behavior."

Antoine panted as he caught the emerald,"Are you sure!?" He gave a glare at Manic.

"I am su-" Sonia looked back at Manic, "Stop trying to put a cookie up your nose."

"But I can do it!" Manic whined, and then threw Antoine his wallet, "Oh, and here's your wallet. Your dad needs a better toupee and you need to change your pin number on your credit cards."

Sonic then took his brother by the elbow and carried him out, "We'll be right back after set up Ant."

A little while later, the trio found a place to park their van and saw where the competitors would be sleeping for the night. As the quartet got ready to meet at the party, Manic was the first to ask, "So what is up with that emerald? I thought they were all green."

"Not really," Sonia said, sitting on a bench, "The ones we keep finding are, well, natural ones that had come into contact with a real emerald. The power just leaked into those when they came near."

"Real, emerald?" asked Sonic.

Nodding, Sonia leaned back, "It was a story Lady Windemere used to tell me..."

Several ages past, long before the machines and the royal families, ancient beings of watery form came to our world bearing seven gems of infinite power. These were the seven Chaos emeralds, and they were given as gifts to the ancient mobiums. After giving the gems, the ancients faded away to spread their knowledge to the universe, leaving only a few members behind.

The Seven Chaos Emeralds were given to the seven tribes of Mobius: One was given to the Owls, the wisest and fairest of all beings. One was given to the Hedgehogs, clever and swift. One was given to the Coyotes, noble and brave. One was given to the Squirrels, caring and full of song. One was given to the Foxes, powerful mages. One was given to the chameleons, secret and skilled. And one was given to the Echindas, who above all desired power and conquest.

For it is said, that while the tribes all had the seven servers, the echindas had the controller. The greatest emerald of them all: The Master Emerald.

For it is said, that the servers are the seven chaos. The controller serves to unify the chaos.

With this in mind, the Echidnas decided on war to take the other emeralds from the other tribes and rule with an iron fist. They tried to take the master Emerald and use it for a weapon for war, and try as they might, the other races began to fall under the echidna's war machine.

The last ancient, seeing the bloodshed and sacrifice that occurred thanks to his gift, tried to stop the echidnas from their slaughter. However, when his calls went unheeded, his poor kind heart turned to rage and he began to attack the world.

"If your hearts are destined for destruction, then destruction you shall receive!"

In the midst of the chaos, a young echidna stood. Her heart, in pain at the suffering her people had caused, used her heart and the power of the seven to bring Chaos to keel and bind him within the master emerald.

Chaos is power and Power is enriched by the heart.

Seeing that the emeralds were too tempting, the seven tribes split the chaos emeralds across the planet, hidden by the opposite tribe. Then the Echindas were banished to the floating island as an eternal punishment, meant to watch over the master emerald for life.

One day, a good person may bring the seven emeralds together. And on that day, a miracle will happen and bring forth the light for us all.

"Hey wait, maybe that's what mom's been doing!" Sonic said, "She's been hiding out so we can get the emeralds and then become the council of four and then kick Buttnik's butt!"

Sonia nodded, "I hope so because Windemere never finished the story. Because it told of what happens when someone with a corrupted heart gets the emeralds."

"What?" asked Manic.

Sonia's eyes grew cold as she looked up, her voice but a whisper, "Chaos reigns."

"Whoa dude, that sounds ominous," Manic said.

"Eh, nothing we can't handle, right Tails?" Sonic said.

Tails' eyes widened,"...Yeah, nothing we can't handle..." He muttered.

"Or, we can always talk to your boyfriend/lover," Sonic said, winking at Manic as he reached into his quills.

Sonia looked confused, "Boyfriend? Who do you mean?"

"You know, he's red. Has dreadlocks, spikey things on his hands, glides, has a tendency to sound like that voice actor guy from the radio that likes to play Dungeons and Dragons," Manic said, pulling out a little puppet of one of her old boyfriends. Sonic followed suit.

Sonia looked confused, then she narrowed her eyes, "Oh no. There is nothing there between me and Knuckles!"

"Oh I get it..." Sonic moved over to his sister on the right side, pulling out the doll, playing with Bartelbly

If there's a prize for rotten judgment,

I guess you've already won that

Manic moved to the other side with his own doll of their friend Cyrus.

No one is worth the aggravation

Sonia's opened wide in annoyance as she pushed the dolls away, causing Sonic and Manic to land on top of each other.

That's ancient history, been there, done that

Turning her head to look at her brothers, she frowned and walked to take Tails by the hand, "Id you two boys are done seeing romance that isn't there. We are going to the Docolette building to see the competition before the ball tonight. Come along Tails."

Sonic and Manic, however, smirked as they put their chin onto their hands and continued to tease.

Who d'you think you're kidding

He's the earth and heaven to you

Try to keep it hidden,

Sonic raced out and stood in front of Sonic, putting a finger onto her nose,

Honey, we can see right through you

Girl you can't conceal it

Manic rested on his sister's shoulders, bringing out a little Knuckles' plush that held a rose in his plushy hands,

We know how you're feeling

Who you thinking of

With a growl of frustration, she pushed Sonic to the side and took the Knuckles plush in her hands. She then turned around to point an accusatory finger at them both.

No chance no way I won't say it, no no

Hearing this, Sonic and Manic happily leaned back to back, holding their hands to their chests as they motioned peopl in love

(You swoon you sigh why deny it oh oh)

Sonia stamped her foot and walked away with Tails, muttering to herself as she walked. As she did, she ignored the fact that the plush was still in her hands.

It's too cliche I won't say I'm in love

As Sonia walked away, she saw a couple of animals walking in a park. A lemur and a wolf holding each other's hands as they walked through the fields. While a couple of bees floated in the air, holding each other's hands.

I thought my heart had learned its lesson

It feels so good when you start out

My head is screaming "Get a grip girl

Unless you're dying to cry your heart out

As Sonia walked away, her brothers followed, walking side by side as they ran and slid, teasing her all the while.

Girl you can't deny it

Who you are is how you're feeling

Baby we're not buying

Hon we saw you hit the ceiling

Face it like a grown-up

Sonic and Manic put their faces close up to her as they took turns singing the next lyrics.

When you gonna own up that you got got got it bad

Nonplussed, Sonia pushed her brothers away by their noses and stormed off.

No chance no way I won't say it, no no

Sonic and Manic walked along with Sonia, doing a call and return all they while they walked together.

(Give up, give in, check the grin you're in love)

This scene won't play I won't say I'm in love

(We'll do it until you admit you're in love)

You're way off base I won't say it

Get off my case I won't say it

(Girl don't be proud it's okay you're in love)

Sonia, one last growl, walked away from her brothers. Then, when she was alone, took the Knuckles plush and looked at him with a warm smile. Then she took Tails by the shoulder and whispered.

At least out loud I won't say I'm in love

Tails let a chuckle to himself, This'll be something interesting to tell Knux back home...

"Indeed," Nicole said, stepping from the portal, dressed in what one could only call 60s chic."

"There you are!" Tails whispered.

"MY apologies, but the moment I found the type of world you were in, I had to dress up," Nicole said. "Do I look groovy?"

"... Yes."

Nicole smiled and clapped her hands happily, "According to Z, you are supposed to," she looked back at he palm pilot and raised an eyebrow, "Inspire?"

"Oh, thanks Z!" Tails said,"That's so informative!"

"She has written a sarcastic quip, would you like me to read it back?" asked Nicole.

"Go ahead..." Tails sighed.

"Oh you are so welcome."

Tails let out a sigh.

"You talking to someone little bro?" Asked Sonic.

"My AI that lives in my head." Tails said.

Manic smiled, "Ok, that is so totally cool."

"I know." Tails said.

"So, I wonder what is our competition," Sonic said, walking into the small conference hall. Within there were several different bands of different animals all talking and conversing. He paused for a second to say, "And there is someone there who has stolen Maniac's look."

Manic looked at the green hedgehog, "Wait, what? Dude, I'm the only green one around here.

"Oh no!" Tails screamed,"That's Sonic's evil self from another universe, Scourge! That means Fiona and Starline are somewhere nearby!"

Starline drank some tea next to them,"Yep."

"... Is that evil tea?" asked Sonic.

Starline scoffed,"Please. Darjeeling."

"Still evil compared to green tea," Sonia remarked.

"To each their own," Starline said with a shrug.

"What are you doing here!?" Tails asked.

"Entering the competition."

"..." Tails crossed his arms,"No. Seriously."

"That's it. Just showing these fools my magnificent singing voice!" Starline shouted.

Scourge nodded in a depressed manner, before walking to Tails. He leaned in and whispered in the little fox's ear, "If you promise to kill me now, I'll... fix that damn teddy bear for you."

Tails blinked, before looking at him. He seemed to almost consider it for a moment.

"I don't wanna sing! HELP ME!" Scourge said, before being dragged away by Fiona.

Fiona winked, "Don't worry, this will be torture for the both of us. I can't sing, he can't dance."

Tails snickered,"I'm actually going to enjoy this."

Scourge could only flip Tails off as he was carried away.

Sonia looked around the hall, watching the various bands mingle and talk. For a moment, she was a little lost in all of the voices and people enjoying themselves, "Hard to think that there are so many bands in Mobius, waiting."

"Well when Robotnik makes something good illegal," Manic said, "You kind of need a way to express it. Isn't that one of the big things we're fighting for? To make sure we can live without having to pay for it?"

"Yeah," Sonic said with a chuckle. "Well, time to mingle. Some of these bands I always wanted to meet."

"Do ya know any of them bro?" asked Manic.

"A few," Sonic said. "First, I'm surprised the Equestria girls aren't here."

"Those pony girls? Yeah probably busy on another island," Said Manic.

A small group of animals stood to the side, mumbling to each other, "Nirvana."

A group of Linxes stood with sad looks on their faces, "Linxen Park."

A lady emu walked by "Emuessence"

A lady bat flew by with her band, "Nightwish."

"Dragonforce," Dulcy waved hi as she stood with her band.

"Apeba" A bunch of Swedish apes danced with each other

A blue jay started to hum Rockin Robin to himself, "Blue Day."

Another group of dragons laid back, thinking of their song "Imagine Dragons."

A cat, A dragon with a long tongue, an owl, and a love bird, "Kiss"

A bunch of thuggish leopards played with their bones, "Bone Thugs 'n' Harmony."

A walrus started reading a book of love "Peter Gaberiel."

A seal sang next to a rose, "Seal."

A group of turtles hummed T.U,R,T,L, E power "The Turtles."

A group of Bees floated by, "The Bee Gees." followed by a little bee with hair "And their little brother."

An elk with big frizzy hair walked by "Cher."

That was when the music stopped as three sea horses walked in

Tails watched the sea horses in awe for a second

As the sultry girls began to sing, ready to put everyone under their control, a shark's hand stopped them. The light blue one groaned, "Aw, we were just having a little fun!"

The shark frowned,"None of that. Remember your parole?"

"Oh, come on Razor. We are only showing them our," the eldest of the trio leaned over to Razor and pushed up her talent, "Talents."

The pink one rolled her eyes, "Adagio, there might be a problem with trying to seduce him."

"OH! I know," the light blue one said with a big smile, "He likes the booty more than what's on top?"

"You could say that Sonata," the middle child said, "Let's say, he doesn't enjoy tacos."

"Aria... how can you not enjoy tacos? They are crunchy, full of meat, and tasty!" Sonata giggled.

Adagio blinked and then looked back at Razor, "No..."

Razor simply glared at them,"No."

"Not even a little?" asked Adagio.

"No."

"You're a jerk," Adagio grumbled.

Razor shook his head,"No, just responsible."

A little manta ray came up to him,"Razor, Sonic Underground is here, can I go get their autographs!?"

"Yes, you may, Pearly," Razor said.

Manic looked at the little manta ray girl as she walked up, "Oh hey little dudette, need an autograph?"

Pearly nodded.

Manic, Sonic, and Sonia happily signed the little paper. As they did, Adagio sneered, "Darn, it's the Sonic Underground."

"OH! Really!?" squealed Sonata, "Think we can get their autographs and see how they are doing? Oh, Raxzor, can we talk to them? I have all of their albums and fruit snacks and comic series and-"

Adagio face palmed, "Aria, handle the little sister will ya?"

Aria pulled out a taco.

"NOM!" Sonata was quickly drawn out of her stupidity impulse to engage her favorite treat.

adagio frowned and growled, "If it was just these idioits we could win this easily but now..."

As the trio of siblings were talking, Sonia looked around at the various bands, "You know, not that I am surprised that we are popular with the rebels. But I can't help but notice that a lot of them are casting looks our way."

"Well, we are the biggest symbols of hope on the planet," Sonic said, holding a chili dog in one hand, "Of course we are popular."

"And the favorite to win," Manic said with a little snark.

Tails looked at the other bands,"They're probably hoping for a win"

Sonic could only chuckle at this before noticing Antoine talking to a bunny and then leaving her behind. Smiling at his brother, he nudged him and walked to the coyote. Sonia watched this and facepalmed, muttering to herself as she sat back to watch her brothers. Sonic was the first to stroll up, "So, who was the girl?"

Antoine looked at them,"Zat was mi bodyguard, Bunnie Rabbot."

"Oh, she's your 'body' guard," Sonic said with a smirk.

Manic nodded with a wink, "I bet you enjoy how she guards your body."

"Well, she does do a good job. That's why I keep her around." Antoine said.

"OH, I bet she does a good job," Manic laughed, "A real good job of guarding your body. Watching it, protecting it, keeping close on those long cold nights."

Sonic joined in, "And I bet you would give anything to guard her body as well."

Antoine blinked a few times,"I don't see why I would, she's perfectly capable of guarding herself."

"Oh, we know, but you know how it goes," Sonic said.

"... We guard each other?" Antoine said.

"Yeah, guard each other, hold each other," Manic said.

Sonic wagged his eyebrow, "Leaning into each other's arms and then-"

Antoine let out a,"Sacre Bleu! I do not zink of such a thing around her!"

"Right, got to ask her out first," Sonic snarked before being pushed away by Sonia.

"Excuse me, Antione, we need to get used to the town, be back later," Sonia said.

"Do zat!" Antoine scoffed, before looking longingly at Bunnie.

"HA!" Sonic mocked

Antoine stammered before going about his business.

Sonia pushed her brothers out a little bit to the sidelines, getting them together in a group, "Ok, so...who is the biggest challengers here?"

"Personally, I say those Siren girls," Sonic said, looking back at them, "They seem to want it the most and you saw how good they sang. Their whole world is like a performance."

"That faker!" Manic said, looking back at Scourge, "I don't trust him as far as I can throw him."

Sonia rolled her eyes at her younger brother's jealously, and then sighed, "I agree with Sonic. If anyone here is a challenge it's going to be those girls. We better be on our game."

"Right," Sonic said, before shrugging, "But, that's tomorrow's problem. We're in a free city, no Buttnik to worry about for a bit. I say we hit the town."

"Sonic," Sonia said, tapping her foot, "This is serious!"

"Look, we are the best is," Sonic said, turning to walk away. "We can beat Buttnik in a day, and we are like super popular. We can handle a bunch of evil songtresses."

Sonia raised a hand to object before Manic interrupted, "Yeah, I say the time's for us to finally relax and have fun with our lives. Let's enjoy a little of the city's life. I even heard that there's a ball later for you to enjoy."

"Well," Sonia said, running a finger through her hair, "It would be nice for us to just be like other people and not the big bad heroes."

"That's the spirit!" Sonic said, walking away and towards the door, "So, let's get out there and have some fun!"

Sonic brought out his guitar and started to play an upbeat track, making a quick choir ascent while Manic began to keep in step with his own sticks.

One minute I'm in Central Park

Then, I'm down on Delancey Street

Said, from the Bow'ry to St Mark's

There's a syncopated beat. Right

"WE should still come up with some plans and-" Sonia sighed and said, "Fine! Why not!"

Sonic smirked as he looked and winked at his sis.

I said, Whoo, whoo, whoo, whoo, whoo

I'm streetwise

I can improvise

I said, Whoo, whoo, whoo, whoo, whoo

I'm streetsmart

Sonic sped up a little, and then ran to a guardrail, sliding down it while Manic began to sing a little. As he did, he moved between various animals, sneaking their wallets and looking for places to steal.

I've got Station Square heart

Why should I worry?

Why should I care?

I may not have a dime

But I got street savoir faire

Manic and Sonic ran together, running along the walls and making music with various objects.

Why should I worry?

Why should I care?

It's just be-bopulation

And I got street savoir faire

"I swear you boys never grew up!" Sonia shouted before walking away.

Sonic threw a few mobiums to a sunglasses seller and put them onto his eyes.

The rhythm of the city

But once you get it down

Said, then you can own this town

You can wear the crown

Manic and Sonic began to sing together, dancing to the rhythm of their own beat, while attracting a few groupies here and there.

Why should I worry? Tell me

Why should I care?

I Said, I may not have a dime. Oh

But I got street savoir faire

Why should I worry?

Why should I care?

It's just doo-bopulation

And I got street savoir faire

"Meet up back at the van in a few?" asked Manic.

"Ya know it bro," Sonic said, fist bumpin' his little brother and juicing away.

Tails looked around,"Well, I could fly around town for a bit. See what everyone else is doing..."

A yellow blur ran into Manic as he walked down the street.

"Ooof!" Manic said as he hit the ground. Shakin his head, he got up slowly, "Hey, slow down man. You don't need to go so fast."

"Oh, " A female voice said as she got up,"I'm sorry, I didn't see you there."

Manic shrugged as he looked, "No big, I have a tendacy to..." he paused, getting a good look at the girl.

She was a yellow mongoose with pink hair dressed in black leather. She had on a hood,"You okay?"

"Uh...yeah," Manic said, playing with his green quills for a moment as he stood up. "So, what's the name and what's with the hoodie?"

"I'm Mina, and I'm trying to hide from my worrywart of a manager..." Mina muttered,"You're... Manic?"

"I am?" Manic asked, and then looked at himself, "Oh yeah man, I am. The drummer and the little triplet. I didn't think I was so noticeable."

"Well, you are part of Sonic Underground, and you're like, one of two green hedgehogs I saw in there," Mina said with a smile.

"Yeah," Manic said, mumbling a little under his breath about Scourge. Leaning against the pole, he changed the subject, "What was this about a worrywart manager?"

Mina sighed as she looked down at the ground,"My manager thinks it's too dangerous for me to be by myself around here."

"He's serious? Dangerous? This town?" asked Manic. "Robuttnik doesn't even touch this place and he thinks this place is dangerous?"

"He's worried that Dr. Robotnik will change his mind or something." She leaned back with a sigh,"He's always been like this."

"A worrywart or a wimp?" asked Manic.

Mina smiled,"Both."

"Ah, I get it," Manic said, "And he just won the lottery to be your manager?"

"Basically. I don't know what I saw in him." Mina sighed

Manic's eyes shot up, "Wait...were you ad he..."

"For like, two months, then we broke up." Mina said.

Manic nodded, before looking back at her, "So, now you are just enjoying the sights of the city?"

"Yeah..." Mina smiled at him.

"Well then, let me take you to the bad places!" Manic said, grabbing Mina by the hand, "After all, I am a criminal, and I need to get to stealing."

"Oh, okay!" Mina smiled as she ran with him.

Manic had a happy smile on his face as he ran with Mina through the streets. Occasionally, he would hold her hood for her as a blue blur would pass them by, trying his best not to be annoyed with his older brother. Looking back at Mina, he walked with her to a small little park. With a chuckle, he walked with her through the small walkway, passing by various animals. Mina would take in the sights, looking at the trees and flowers, while not seeing as Manic would lightly push into people and walk away with a few mobiums richer. Seeing him out of the corner of her eye, she lightly took his hand into hers.

Blushing at this, Manic asked, "So, what inspired you to be a singer?"

Mina looked at Manic,"You."

"Me?" MAnic asked, leaning back against a bridge.

"I mean, you go up there and you're constantly risking your lives to sing." Mina smiled,"That's inspiring.

Manic couldn't help but chuckle at this, "Me? Nah. Sonic and Sonia are the ones who do most of the work, I'm just the third wheel. The drummer who plays to the beat."

Mina frowned,"Hey, there's nothing wrong with being the drummer! My drummer, Mach, is pretty cool."

"Yeah, but Sonia and Sonic get all of the cool stuff. Sonia's got the brains and Sonic is the fastest thing I've seen in my life," Manic pulled out his drumstick and twirled it on a finger, "Not exactly the same as being a drummer to a cool girl."

"Well, you've got good hands." Mina smiled.

"Yeah, the best," Manic said, "Why I still love being a thief," he then handed her a little flower, "So, uh, don't walk by the flower vendor over there. Like, ever again."

Mina giggled,"Okay, I'll keep that in mind." She took a sniff.

"So, no hard feelings if we win?" Manic said, "I mean, I don't know if we are but if we end up-"

Mina put a finger to his lips,"I just want to have fun, I don't care about winning."

Manic stood there, and smiled, looking into her warm eyes. Then he took her hand, "Hey, you wanna know something? I kind of just like having the fun of it all too. Mind if I tell ya something I don't tell my sibs?"

Mina blinked,"Sure."

"I sometimes feel a little," Manic paused, trying to think of the right words, "Overwhelmed about this. I mean, don't get me wrong, I love this job. Inspiring people like you, helping others? Great. And I love my sibs, spending all of these three years with them has been a dream but..." for a moment he looked to an older man walking with his son, pickpocketing.

"I sometimes miss the quieter times," Manic said, looking down, "Sonia's the brains, and Sonic feels like he was born into the hero life. Bet ya anything that he was kicking bully ass when he was a toddler, but me? I kind of want to go back to just a simpler time and just be a thief/drummer."

"Heh," Mina smiled,"Maybe the simple life does seem to be better for you."

"Hey, I'm a simple hog with simple needs," Manic said, "Kind of like how you love living both the superstar life and just having fun."

"So we are compatible!" Mina said.

"C-compatible?" squeaked Manic.

Mina winked.

Manic began to mumble and stutter, unable to find his voice.

Mina giggled,"I'll see you later." She turned and sped off.

Manic stood there, stunned, unable to move for the longest time.

The smell of chili dogs entered Sonic's nostrils. The smoke became a pair of fingers, wafting over to his nose. Tantelizingly, it began to rub under his nose, caressing it, and then leading him on. Turning around, he began to follow the smoke trail with a dazed look in his eye as he floated along the ground toward his love.

There was a small shop titled,"Alicia's Chili Dog Shop."

A squirrel with a mustache was working the counter.

"Five chili dogs with extra chili and some ketchup!" Sonic said, sitting in front as the whispy hand disappeared.

The squirrel smiled,"Five huh? someone's feeling hungry! I'll fix them up real quick!"

"Eh, what can I say, I need a light snack," Sonic said with a smirk.

"A big eater, are we?" A female chipmunk said next to him.

Sonic nodded, "Live fast, move fast, eat faaaaaaaaaa," he paused, getting a good look at the girl who stepped next to him. Shaking his head, he pushed back his quills and said, "Sonic, and you are?"

The girl held out her hand with a smile,"Sally. My dad runs this place."

"He does? That's awesome," Sonic said, leaning back and laying his elbow on the counter, "Been working here long?"

"Practically since I was born." Sally did the same thing while holding a milkshake.

"Must be nice, living so close to free food and some free drinks," Sonic said.

"Yeah, but I still had to do work when I hit 18." Sally said.

"I never said you had to!" Her dad said from the kitchen.

"Well, I wanted to. Our business kinda slowed after my brother got married..."

"Went off on his own huh?" Sonic said, smirking, "Sounds fun."

"Well he still works here from time to time, it's just that we have fewer female customers..." Sally chuckled.

Sonic raised an eyebrow, "Aw come on, that can't be true. Everyone loves a good chili dog."

Sally giggled,"You got that right."

Sonic couldn't help but smile, "That was cute."

"My giggle or your smile?" Sally winked.

"What do you think?" asked Sonic.

Sally leaned in,"I think you're a bit of a charmer, but it'll take more than that to charm me."

"Ahem." Mr. Acorn said, putting a plate of chili dogs near Sonic.

"Oh?" Sonic asked, "You think I'm a good charmer eh?"

"I mean, you do try real hard." Sally said.

Sonic paused for a second at that.

Sally smirked as she leaped off the barstool.

"Did...did she call me a try-hard?" asked Sonic as he flipped two chili dogs into the air and munched them at once.

Nigel leaned on his palm,"Trust me, her mother was the same way."

"Her mom? Must have been a handful,"Sonic said, before taking a good look at Nigel's face, "You know, you remind me of this old statue I saw once in a picture."

Nigel frowned,"I get that a lot."

"What was the deal with that guy anyway? I think Sonia said something about it when we looked but-"

Sonia put her hands on her hips and had a big frown, while wearing a t-shirt that said 'annoying sister' "Boring Boring Boring, nag nag nag. Sonic listen. I'm talking and preventing you from racing out, so how about you run off and leave me alone."

"I forgot," Sonic said

Nigel looked away,"He was a coward. Nothing more."

"Ran away from a fight?" Sonic asked.

"... You could say that." Nigel said.

Sonic sighed and leaned back, "Hey if he had his reasons..."

"No reason is good enough." Nigel whispered.

"Sure there is," Sonic said, "Protecting someone, wanting to feel safe, or if you feel ike you can't handle it."

"..." Nigel put the check in front of Sonic, putting on a smile,"Maybe you're right!"

"Hey, live free and wild, that's how I love to do things," Sonic said, "and..." he looked at the check, "How much again?"

"10 Mobiums."

Sonic reached into his backpack and gasped. With a chuckle, he said, "Give me like, five seconds." before throwing the check into the air, "I'll be back before this hits the counter."

"Will-" Nigel was about to ask.

The second that the words left Nigel's mouth, Sonic was already off the counter. The world seemed to slow down as he took off in a fast blue blur through the city, down the park (where he noticed that Manic was with a mongoose), and through the streets of the city. As he ran, he thought he saw Sonia and Knuckles talking to each other, and he smirked, wanting to push her into his embrace. Turning around he managed to make it to the van, where he picked up Sonia's wallet and took out 10 bucks. Writing down an apology, he raced back to the stand where he put the ten onto the counter as the bill finally hit the counter.

"-you?" Nigel stared at the ten mobiums,"Huh."

Sonic smirked as he said, "Yes, yes I will. Good luck with the shop pops! I'll definitely be back later!" he said as he took off, leaving a gust of wind behind.

It took only a few minutes of racing around the city at the speed of sound before Sonic found a small little hill to pause. Taking a deep breath, he said to himself, "Man, it's been so long since I smelled fresh air I almost forgot what it was like." he spun around in a circle for a brief moment before he landed on his back and laughed a little.

"Total, absolute freedom. With the wind at my side and the fresh air around me," Sonic said, looking back up at the blue sky, watching as some of the flowers around him floated. One little flower petal landed on his nose as he began to remember how the old man talked.

"Had to back away from it. Run"

"Yeah, fine for the king, but not for me. I'm going to see this through and save Mobius with my sibs!" Sonic said, thrusting his fist in the air. Opening his fist for a moment, he closed it again before asking, "And then..."

"And then..."

Sonic stood on the council with his mother and siblings, listening to the people talk. And utterly bored out of his mind.

"Be bored? Just sit around listening to other people's problems?" Sonic shook his head, "Nah. I would be running out the door the first second I got." he then sighed as he just laid back to listen to the wind.

Knuckles glided down to Station Square, searching for a hint of pink. And maybe the other two colors as well.

Sonia sat by the fountain, running her hand through the water. A little smileon her lips as she began to think about her brothers, "You know, if Robotnik hadn't been so dumb. I would never have met my brothers."

Knuckles landed behind her,"Sonia!"

Sonia looked up at the sound of her name and smiled happily when she saw the echidna gliding in. With a smile, she said, "Knuckles! I'm glad to see you!"

Knuckles stared at her,"Uh," What was I thinking again? He pulled out some flowers," Rose?"

Sonia let out a gasp of happiness, smiling as she took the rose, "AW, thank you. Did you glide all the way here to give me one?"

"Well, I, uh," Knuckles thought,Damn it, what was I gonna tell her!?

"Well it's still very sweet," Sonia smiled and put the rose in her hair. Then she looked at him, "Oh, Knuckles! I need a favor from you." she said, holding his hands.

"Yes?" Knuckles asked.

"Listen," Sonia said, looking away a little, "There is this ball to finish the opening celebrations for the music festival. I need a date and I need you to be mine. Will you accept?"

Knuckles looked away,"A d-d-dance? I don't know..."

Sonia smiled, "Thank you. This means so much to me!" she said, giving Knuckles a quick kiss on the cheek before running away. Knuckles, on the other hand, could only stand there dumbfounded and looking like a fool.

As she ran back, she paused and leaned back against a wall, "I...Did I just do that?" Sonia asked with a laugh and looked up, "Did I just ask Knuckles on a date."

"Yeah," Sonia said, looking down at her necklace, "I did. So unladylike."

"Now Sonia, a lady must be-" Lady Windemire said, looking at the book.

"Poised, refined, and dainty," Sonia said, balancing on top of a pile of books with one hand.

Windemire frowned, "And that does not include balancing on a pile of books and endangering yourself."

"What?" Sonia asked with a gasp as she backflipped off the stacks and then back onto her feet, "How did you-"

"I am your mother," Windemire said with a smile as she closed her book, "I know."

"That's a lie and you know it," Sonia argued with her arms crossed.

"And a lady does not talk back to her mother," Windemire said with a laugh.

Sonia let go of her pendant and said, "And a lady usually lets a guy come to her when its comes to time to dance. She does not go to him and yadda yadda." she said, waving her hand dismissively before shaking her head, "And I think I probably broke every rule she ever taught me about being a lady."

"Come on sis!" Sonic said in her memories.

"Don't be such a stuck-up," Manic said.

"Ever since I met them," Sonia said, closing her eyes, "I've become less and less of the lady that she wanted me to be. I wonder, did mom ever think I was going to be the lady of our little team, or was she thinking that I was a little rebel too." pulling herself away from the wall for a moment, she realized that she was in front of a boutique. With a smile, she took a moment to admire the dresses inside.

Against the window, she stood in front of an elegant pink dress, one that looked like it was made for a ball. She stood in front of another dress, looking like she was ready for an elegant night on the town. Then she stood in front of a little more risque dress and paused. For a second, she looked at it, thought about it, and then laughed, "Mom would kill me."

"No one should be killed for wearing a dress they like," said a female voice from the entrance.

"Huh?" asked Sonia as she turned to see a yellow cat wearing a little red dress. "Oh sorry, I didn't mean to loiter."

"Nonsense," the cat said, puffing up her black hair in pigtails as she took Sonia's hand, "Every girl should be allowed to check out Honey's dress works! After all, if you don't look sweet, you aren't wearing honey."

"Wait I-" Sonia could barely get a word out before being taken into the shop.

Elsewhere, a green duck began to draw onto Knuckles' face, "See. A total statue!"

"O-o-h," a little yellow flying squirrel said. "But, he sounds like he's breathing. Why do you think that he turned like that? W-w-w-witches? W-w-warlocks? Fairies?"

"Dates! Get yer Dates!" shouted two kangaroos.

"D-d-d-date!?" Knuckles leaped up out of his shoes before running off,"What should I wear!?"

The Duck looked at him, "Probably help if he could dance too."

As Knuckles ran off, his eyes began to get wider as the horror of the notion of being on a date would bring.

Hot sun beating down

Burning my feet just walking around

Hot sun makin' me sweat

Gators getting close, hasn't got me yet

Knuckles paused as he also began to think of the other things he needed: Clothes, a corsage, and most importantly, dancing lessons!

I can't dance

I can't talk

Only thing about me is the way I walk

I can't dance

I can't sing

I'm just standing here selling everything

Knuckles shook his head, "No, I can't let myself lose faith like this. I got to think through this and get ready. This is a big night. Where can I-" he gasped when he saw a store that was labeled "Dance and Suits. Lessons while we zoot you" With a big smile on his lips, he ran into the shop.

Purple eyes began to take in the various clothes, materials, and such. His mind began to reel at the various outfits, unable to decide which clothes to pick being the one who rarely wore clothes unless it was a ceremony or an important event.

Blue jeans sittin' on the beach

Her dog's talking to me, but she's out of reach

Mhm, she's got a body under that shirt

But all her bro will want to rub my face in the dirt.

The store owner stepped out, a sheep with a yellow top matching her little bell around her neck. The sheep put her hands together as she asked, "Can I help you sir?"

'Cause I can't dance

I can't talk

Only thing about me is the way I walk

I can't dance

I can't sing

I'm just standing here sellin'

Lanolin gasped,

Oh you poor think needing to save face

You need help going on

Smiling and putting her hands down, she gave him a wink and said, "Don't worry, Mr. Echidna. I've helped many cases like this before, how long do we have?"

"Tonight." Knuckles gulped.

"Plenty of time!" Lanolin said, leading him to the dance floor.

Young dear, go put on your shoes

I'll make sure that I'll take away your blues

Then you will, see her smiling through

So much can happen without lookin a fool

Knuckles frowned as he hit the dance floor, feeling embarrassed as he tried to dance but failing hard. His feet tripping over himself as he sang.

But I can't dance

I can't talk

The only thing about me is the way that I walk

I can't dance

I can't sing

I'm just standing here sellin'

Lanonlin could only wave her hand as he tried to dismiss himself. Smiling, she took his hand and began to move gently along the dance floor. Each step for Knuckles was like trying to learn to walk all over again. However, after a few moments, he found himself able to easily match her movements and keep pace. Smirking, he quickly nodded as he now felt more confident in dancing. Lanolin then smiled as she led him to her dress room, as Knuckles began to sing while he was suited up.

Oh and checking everything is in place

You never know who's looking on

A perfect body with a perfect face

Mhm

Lanolin smiled as she pulled back the drapes to give Knuckles a look at himself.

Now, I can dance

I can talk

The only thing about me is the way I walk

Now, I can dance

I can sing

I'm just standing here sellin' everything

Knuckles stepped out proudly, smiling as he looked at the world, ready to finish the song.

No, I can't walk

No, I can't dance

No, no, no, I can't dance

No, I said, I can't sing

Tails flew over to a rooftop, overlooking the city as night began to fall,"This city looks good at night."

Nicole appeared next to Tails, dressed in bell bottoms with some gold chains, "It does."

"You're getting creative with your outfits." Tails smiled.

Nicole laughed a little as she twirled around a little, "I have been looking up music history and am trying different looks."

"I think I saw a picture of Uncle Chuck with those pants." Tails chuckled.

"That's where I found them," Nicole said, "He looked quite interesting."

"Doesn't Jules usually make fun of him for those pictures?"

Nicole blinked, paused, and asked "So, update on the status of who you think you need to inspire?"

Tails sighed,"No. I did see Ash looking for Mina. He can't catch a break in any universe..."

"Oh poor guy," Nicole said.

"Yeah, I'd hate to see them break up in our future..." Tails said.

Nicole nodded, "I'll try to continue to look for the person you need to inspire. How are you feeling about this world."

"It's nice." Tails smiled,"A little weird though, it's like every hour someone has to sing or something."

"You haven't..."

"Not yet..." Tails thought for a moment,"Though I did do a little humming..."

"I understand," Nicole said, "It is interesting to be in such a world dedicated to music."

Suddenly, from below in the streets, they could hear

They got the mustard out!

"OH, I am so hungry," a green Caranary said walking around, "I don't want to ruin my lunch before seeing Amy. Where can I get something quick to eat."

Diet Diet Deit Crepe

D-d-d-diet Crepe

Very Very Very Healthy

Super Diet Crepe.

"Awww, Rob, honey what's wrong," Mari-on asked of her husband as he wept in front of his PS4. On the screen, a little blue man exploded in a flash of little bitty balls of light.

If only I had Item-2,

I'd be able to cross to the other side with ease,

but no matter how many times I try,

I can't beat Air Man!

I can't dodge his tornadoes no matter how many times I try.

Even when I get behind him and keep shooting,

I still end up getting blown away by his wind.

I have also tried the often-abused repeated pause technique,

but it's kinda meaningless against the tornadoes.

So in order to win for sure the next time,

I'll be stocking up on nothing but Energy Tanks.

"So I wouldn't blame you if you decided that this starry night, the sun isi setting, would encourage you to have a solo," Nicole said.

"Well, I don't know what to sing!"

"It's ok, computer ais don't know either.

"I figured you would have some MP3s in you." Tails.

Nicole looked at Tails, "Do you know how many mp3s I have had downloaded into me?"

"How many?"

"The entire Mina Mongoose library, several anime soundtracks," Nicole began to count off on her fingers, "Some leftover playlists that were not deleted by Robotnik, 1 album from the Chaotix's failed attempt to be a band, and a listing from a young fox called the "Captain-Super-fox man-the movie-the soundtrack." she looked at Tails, seeing his cringe.

Tails winced,"I made that a year ago, why do you still have it!?"

Nicole giggled, "Well, Sonic and Sally told me to keep it because they wanted to remember when you were a little kit. Antoine and Bunnie have said it's a fun list and something to show their little ones about their uncle Tails, and Rotor." subtly, Nicole tapped her fingers, "Told me that he wanted to keep it as revenge if you and I quote 'Ever take my favorite wrench again. and I like keeping it because of a track you picked for it."

"I only took his wrench one time..." Tails muttered.

Nicole nodded and sat down to look at the city skyline, lightly tapping her fingers. After a few minutes of tapping her fingers, she started to whistle a small little tune that started off slow, before picking up the beat. Tails started to recognize the beat and began to join in, humming before he started t sing,

Some people try to tell me the world is gonna roll me

I'm smallest tool in the shed

Robotnik's kind of dumb with his finger and his thumb

In the shape of an "L" on his forehead

Nicole giggled at Tails' change of lyrics and began to join in.

Well the years start coming and they don't stop coming

Fed to the rules and I hit the ground running

Didn't make sense not to live for fun

Your brain gets smart but your head gets dumb

So much to do, so much to see

So what's wrong with taking the back streets?

You'll never know if you don't go

You'll never shine if you don't glow

Feeling a little invigorated, Tails flew up into the air and danced a little.

Hey now, you're an all-star, get your game on, go play

Hey now, you're a rock star, get the show on, get paid

And all that glitters is gold

Only shooting stars break the mold

Landing back on the ground, Tails started to continue his beat,

It's a cool place and they say it gets colder

You're bundled up now, wait 'til you get older

But the meteor men beg to differ

Judging by the hole in the satellite picture

The ice we skate is getting pretty thin

The water's getting warm so you might as well swim

My world's on fire, how about yours?

That's the way I like it and I'll never get bored

Nicole fired back, adding her own tone to the chorus.

Hey now, you're an all-star, get your game on, go play

Hey now, you're a rock star, get the show on, get paid

All that glitters is gold

Only shooting stars break the mold

Hey now, you're an all-star, get your game on, go play

Hey now, you're a rock star, get the show, on get paid

And all that glitters is gold

Only shooting stars

Somebody once asked could I spare some change for gas?

I need to get myself away from this place

I said, "Yup" what a concept

I could use a little fuel myself

And we could all use a little change

Nicole and Tails started to sing together, feeling a little beat overtake them both.

Well, the years start coming and they don't stop coming

Fed to the rules and I hit the ground running

Didn't make sense not to live for fun

Your brain gets smart but your head gets dumb

So much to do, so much to see

So what's wrong with taking the back streets?

You'll never know if you don't go (go!)

You'll never shine if you don't glow

Hey now, you're an all-star, get your game on, go play

Hey now, you're a rock star, get the show on, get paid

And all that glitters is gold

Only shooting stars break the mold

Sonia stepped out of the clothing shop after being accosted by it's owner. With a smile and nod, she walked away with the dress in the box and began heading towards the van. Looking back at the park, she saw three little owl siblings playing with each other. For a brief moment, she saw her and her siblings in another world, playing without fear.

The more I learn, the more I see

The more the world impresses me

The hungry heart, the roving eye

Have come to test, and all apply

The silly chase, the crazy ride

The thrill has come, I step aside

Shaking her head, she continued to walk. As she did, her mind began to think back to her old life. She could see herself walking and learning all of the ins and outs of being a lady. Of how to conduct herself in a court, and how to live life properly. It both excited her, and bored her as she now felt different being with her two brothers.

Manic walked by himself for a bit, playing with one of the coins in his hand. Looking around him, he could see some families and siblings playing with each other. A slow breath ecaped his lips as he thought back to ow much had changed with his siblings and how the world had changed for him.

The more I want the more I steal

The more I hold the less is real

All worldly things I follow blind

In hope not faith was paid in kind

The line is drawn, the change is made

I come to you, I'm not afraid

"I wonder, would they be mad if I ever said no?" Manic asked himself as he walked home.

Sonic lay on top of the building, watching the sky turn a dark blue and slowly transition into night. As he did, he thought of his uncle, his adoptive parents and his birth mom. Laying back, he started to close his eyes and just think to himself. It seemed that in his life, he had one thing to trust in, was his two siblings.

And I'd believe in anything were it not for you

Showing me by just existing only this is true

I love you, I love you without question, I love you

I'd believe in anything were it not for you

Showing me by just existing only this is true

I love you, I love you without question, I love you

Before he could fall asleep, he got up and ran down the side of a building in a blur, knowing he needed to head home.

Robotnik stepped through the inner workings of Robotroplis, smiling as he did. All around him the sounds of machines being made and the overwhelming inhumanity of metal on metal. For many, it was a dark sight to see many animals now turned into lifeless robots working tirelessly for a despot. Broken and lost, all the while any sight of nature had been all but eradicated from sight. And lord, did he love so, "Oh, I feel good today. I killed the Queen, gained three of the magical chaos emeralds, and my egg fleet is coming along nicely." he gave a slight maniacal chuckle as he watched his empire unfold.

"Sire, your new A.I is ready," said a chicken bot, bowing."

"Ah, good," Robotnik said, walking to is chair, "Sage, report. What is the rest of the schedule for the evening?"

"At 12:00, you are to make an evil speech to your robots. At 2:00 you are to have a meeting with the remaining nobles." A little girl's voice said.

"Oh, do I have time for an evil chortle?"

"Your after-lunch chortle, or pre-bedtime chortle?"

"Pre-bedtime chortle. Lunch is for menachial laughter," Robotnik mused.

"Of course." Sage said.

"Oh, and don't forget to assign a time for maniacal laughter as I sit over my new kingdom in two days," Robotnik said.

"Yes sir."

Pressing a button on his console, he said, "Attention Robotic slaves, I have an announcement!"

All around Mobius, robot slaves began to pause and listen to the voice in their heads.

"What's he doing?" asked a fox/

"Oh, you know son, lord Robotnik's robots have this tendency to do nothing but sit around and listen. It's what they get for being poor and robotized."

"Hey Robot, move your ass. I gave you a command to clean my coffee table!" A cat whined, "I swear, Robotnik is picking the worst people to be robotized. Maybe if they were born into money such as moi."

What they could not hear, was Robotnik's message, "For too long now, we have allowed the nobles and the rich of this world a piece of happiness. Freedom that they did not deserve because of circumstances and money. And for too long I have let them harbor possible rebels to my reign. Well that all stops now!"

Robotnik began to walk around, adding flourishes to his movements in spite of no one being there to watch him. All he cared for was his own showmanship, "As of right now, we are too days away from my GREATEST ACHIEMENT! The grand Eggfleet Armada of the empire!"

The robots merely glowed their eyes red, as if to applaud their overlord.

"Once this all done and settled, this grand fleet will take flight over the world and obliterate any free city left. As they do, they will launch little carriers containing my personalized Swatbots." behind Robotnik, grey robots with guns began to line up and march toward the waiting fleet. "There they will find any and all animals that are wondering about and robotize them, providing a new force for me to enslave."

Some of the robots seemed to lower their heads as if crying but unable to call out.

"Of course, I will leave enough to procreate and give me some animals to do battle with. After all, even I need my challenge and people to lord over. One does not become a despot without having people to despot over after all. ALL GLORY TO THE EGGMAN EMPIRE!"

The robots said nothing, just glowing their eyes red.

Aleena sighed as she ran her hand along her children's heads. Each one seemed to be sleeping peacefully in their little color-coordinated bassinet. A warm smile crept along her face as she saw little Sonic run in his sleep while Manic seemed to drum out a beat. Her admiration of her children vanished when a glowing orb appeared before her, "Queen Aleena. You must listen to me."

"The Oracle?" asked Aleena to herself as she listened.

"You must split up your children, separate them to three parents you trust for them. This allows them to be trained in the skills they need for their day destiny. For then you will reunite to become the council of four and overthrow Robotnik." The oracle said.

"Then what am I going to do in the meantime?" asked Aleena.

"That you will know in time!" the Oracle said.

"That's not an answer you long nose...ant...creature..." Aleena paused for a moment before shouting, "WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU ANYWAY!"

Years passed by in her dreams, she watched her children grow from afar, always monitoring them and making sure they were ok. She watched and sighed, wishing she could be a part of their lives.

"Your Highness, what are you doing? This quest it's-"

"I have had enough!" the Queen said, "You keep telling me to wait until the time is right this and that, and what has happened? Nothing! You keep telling me to wait, well I am done. It's time we reunited and I am getting the only items capable to do it."

"But no one has found the chaos emeralds. You are-"

Aleena paused as she got her bad, "Oh, and what is this?" she then showed a video of the Oracle in Robotnik's room, telling him of the prophecy.

"That? Well, I believed that if he knew he would be-"

"I don't think you were thinking," Queen Aleena said, walking out the door.

Queen Aleena woke up with a gasp and looked into a pair of little brown eyes. "What on earth?"

"Mommy!" the little bunny said, "She's waking up!" before hopping away most adorably.

A taller bunny walked over to her,"Oh, I'm so glad you woke up!"

Alleena sat up in bed and looked to the taller rabbit, "Who are you, how did I get here?"

"Big brought you. He carried you to us and then momma saved you. She fixed the big owies and the small ones," the little one smiled and waved. "I helped a lot, right, Cheese?"

"Chao chao!" the little blue fairy nodded before flying in a circle.

The bunny woman smiled,"You're quite resilient! If Big hadn't found you, you'd be dead!" she bowed"I am Vanilla, and this is my little girl, Cream."

"Thank you for saving me," Aleena said, about to move out of bed, "Now I need to-"

"No," Cream said standing in front of her.

"Why?"

"Because Mama said no," Cream said.

"Young lady I am your Queen and-"

"Momma always said, that if I had a choice to obey her or the queen, I should obey Momma," Cream said, lightly tapping her foot.

"Well," Aleena paused and then sighed, "Your daughter is well-mannered."

"Yes, and she is right. You are staying here until you get better." Vanilla nodded.

Aleena was about to use her Queen privilege, and remind her who was the ruler. Then she looked at the mother, and then to the daughter, and sighed. She couldn't hurt the little bunny's belief in her mother. So instead, "Fine, but may I meet my savior?"

Vanilla nodded,"Big, The pretty lady wants to see you!"

"Oh, the pretty lady wants to see me? She is ok?" asked a large big purple cat that enteredthe building.

Aleena looked up at the cat,"Well... can't say he doesn't live up to his name."

Vanilla giggled, "Yes, his mother named him well when he was born."

"Are you ok, pretty lady?" asked Big. "You looked really hurt."

"Well, other than a mild pain in my back, I'm fine." Aleena smiled.

"Yay!" Big clapped his hands.

Vanilla looked at Aleena, "Now, you stay there and get some rest, understand?"

Aleena sighed. This wasn't a battle she could win at the moment,"Alright."

"And Cream will make sure you don't with her cuteness," Vanilla said, patting her daughter on the head.

Cream smiled and saluted, "Don't worry mama! Mew Cream will be here!"

"Chao chao!" Cheese said in return with a big smile.

Aleena smiled warmly to herself as she watched the interactions between mother and daughter. Looking down at her neck she pulled out a necklace that was in the shape of a microphone. Inlaid in the microphone were three little gems: Pink, Green, and Blue. Taking a look back up at the two, she began to sing softly,

May the good Lord be with you

Down every road you roam

And may sunshine and happiness

Surround you when you're far from home

Cream and Vanilla left the room, leaving Aleena to her memories. In her mind, she could remember the midwife who handed her her three babies, the first time she held all three in her arms, and how each already seemed to be ready to face the world. In her head, she saw herself laying the triplets in their crib and then handing them to people she trusted. Forced to forever watch them grow from a distance.

And may you grow to be proud

Dignified and true

And do unto others

As you'd have done to you

Wiping a tear from her eye as she thought about how the triplets were forced to grow apart, growing into young teens capable of doing so much. She could remember cheering at each triumph, crying at each failure, and praying when she couldn't find them. Only hoping that their bond had saved them.

Be courageous and be brave

And in my heart you'll always stay

Forever young, forever young

May good fortune be with you

May your guiding light be strong

Build a stairway to Heaven

With a prince or a vagabond

For a moment, she saw a different future, a different time. OF them growing up away from the tyranny of Robotnik. Of her holding a small court with Sonia as she sits thinking of other things beyond the palace walls. Of a Manic who would be ready to come up with new ways to make his siblings happy. While the crown prince Sonic would travel the world, finding new dragons to fight. How they would mature into adults and ready to leave their nest.

And may you never love in vain

And in my heart you will remain

Forever young, forever young

Yeah

She sighed, thinking of the future. Of her being an old queen, sitting alone in the throne room. Only for her children to arrive with their own families. The trio having won the war against Robotnik and finding happiness elsewhere. However, their bond never letting them forget their home, their family, and their mother.

And when you finally fly away

I'll be hoping that I served you well

For all the wisdom of a lifetime

No one can ever tell

But whatever road you choose

I'm right behind you, win or lose

Forever young, forever young

For-forever young, forever young

Laying back onto the bed, she looked up at the ceiling, "My children...I pray to the Ancient Walkers that you three are safe. The next few days may prove to be your greatest challenge. Just know, no matter where you are, what you do, I am with you..."

Off-Topic: Forgetfulness:

Fleetway!Sonic grumbled,"Can't believe the author forgot to put in an off-topic section in the previous chapter!

Rick stopped typing,"Hey, I'm only human! Besides, this next section's going to be pretty long..."

Chapter 6: Underground Part 2

Chapter Text

Tails flew down to the place where the triplets waited.

Sonic smiled and waved to Tails, "Hey little bro. Enjoy your trip through the city?"

"Yeah!" Tails said, hopping with excitement.

Sonia smiled, "Good, I'm just glad you didn't get lost in the big city. Now, before the ball...what happened to my wallet?"

"W-wallet?" asked Sonic.

"I had ten mobiums in there and now I find an I.O.U? Care to tell me which one of my brothers-" Sonia continued but was interrupted by Manic handing her the missing money.

"Must have fallen out of your wallet," Manic said, smirking at Sonic with a look of 'Don't ask where I got it."

Sonia smiled, "OK then. So, who's going to stay here and make sure Tails is safe while we go to the ball."

"Hey, I think he's fine on his own. The kid's smart," Sonic said.

"The KID is also 10," Sonia said, tapping her foot.

"Well, I have been in my universe's Freedom Fighters for a year." Tails frowned.

"See, perfectly ok," Sonic said with a smirk.

Sonia could only frown in annoyance.

Tails smiled a little, Sonia's a worrywart...

"And besides, the little dude will probably be inventing or looking stuff up while we have fun," Manic said, holding out his fist for a fist bump, "Right bro?"

Tails fist-bumped him back.

Sonia looked at the three of them and began to rub her temples, "You three... are so persistent."

She does remind me of Sally when she gets exasperated by Sonic's antics. Tails thought

"Ok, now that's all set up, let's get moving!" Sonic said, walking out.

Manic walked out next, "Bye little bro, I'll remember to...borrow some stuff for you."

"Try not to do it too much, I don't want us getting kicked out." Tails said.

Sonic and Manic could only wink.

The ball was already bustling as the triplets entered. The animals that weren't dancing at the time were busy mingling or drinking as they caught up on old times. It would bring to mind the days of old back when parties were had before Robotnik's reign had begun.

For the triplets though, this was akin to their first coming-out party. A shame that, for two brothers, this was an uncomfortable experience, "Why." Sonic moaned, tugging at his blue tie and trying to adjust his blue tux.

"Because this is important for us to make a good impression on our competition," Sonia said, holding up a red fan to her face. Her pink dress had a long gown just stopping at her ankles, while her bodice was pink and had sparkles along the front and shoulder straps.

Manic grumbled and put his hands into his green pants, "But we had the banquet. What is this for?"

"A little party to put us all at ease. It's one of those balls that help us mingle with the others and to help foster friendships," Sonia said, smiling. "Think of it as a present to those of us who made it here."

"Oh I get it," Manic said, with a chuckle, "Farrel called them free-range targets."

Sonia blinked for a moment, and began to think, before Sonic said, "He means that they saw them as a chance to steal with wanton abandon."

"I know, I was hoping he wasn't going to think that," Sonia said, resisting the urge to act unladylike.

Sonic chuckled, and patted his sis on the back, "Besides, I get it. Some races have this, a little party to wind down after the opening ceremonies. It's cool."

Sonia nodded, "And besides, this is our chance to finally have a coming out party." she narrowed her eyes at her brothers, daring them to make the obvious joke "Now, let's TRY and be on our best behavior. No robbing, no hogging the chili dogs, and no getting on stage and rocking out a loud rock ballad. Understood?"

"Yes, Ms. Hedgehog. We'll be good," the two brothers said in unison while holding their hands and putting on puppy dog eyes.

"I swear," Sonia said with a growl, "If you two didn't look like me with different fur colors I swear we were all adopted. Just go."

The two brothers walked away with a high five, leaving Sonia alone in the entrance. Sighing, she saw Antonie make his entrance, "Oh, monsieur Antoine. I must thank you for this ball, it is very well done. Um...where is your bodyguard?"

Antoine smiled,"Oh, She eez coming, she had to get ready herself! You look dashing today, by the way."

"Why thank you," Sonia said, smiling, "I love balls like this and a chance to relax."

"I worked real hard on..." Antoine tapered off as he looked beyond Sonia.

"Hmmm, what's wrong?" Sonia asked, turning around to look.

Bunnie was currently at the entrance in a long sparkly blue dress.

Sonia blinked a few times in total amazement at the beauty in front of her. Taking a moment, she shook her head and said, "Miss Rabot, are you sure that's appropriate bodyguard attire?"

"Well, ah ain't gonna go to a ball dressed in somethin' not fancy." She grinned,"'Sides, Ah can fight with mah fists!"

"I understand," she said, looking back at Antoine. Shashaying slowly, Sonia closed his mouth, "It's rude to have your mouth open, monsieur. Now, I will let you two have, bodyguard talks together.

Antoine stammered,"Oh, right..."

Sonia laughed and waved goodbye, "I swear... I can be as bad as them."

Knuckles stammered as he went in,"Alright, play it cool, this is your first ball, don't screw up!"

Sonia walked out and sighed, looking at the various animals talking and mingling. Feeling a bit of loneliness, she began to sing softly to herself.

Everything's gonna be alright tonight

No one moves, no one grooves

No one talks, no one walks tonight

Tonight

Knuckles stepped out onto the dancefloor and saw Sonia walking by herself. His eyes froze on her body, seeing a perfect vision of loveliness standing alone. As he heard her sing alone on the floor, he took a breath and stepped out, joining his voice with hers.

Everyone will be alright tonight

No one moves, no one talks

No one thinks, no one walks tonight

Tonight

Sonia gasped as she heard Knuckles singing behind her. Smiling warmly, she walked up to him before taking his hands into hers. The look she gave him showed that she had but one request, which Knuckles happily returned an answer with a nod.

I will love you till I reach the end

I will love you till I die

I will see you in the sky

Tonight, tonight

As the slow guitar and drum played on, the two began to move across the floor. As Knuckles' feet moved with hers, he blushed and noted that his feet occasionally tapped her shoes. Sonia looked back up at Knuckles with a warm smile and began to take the lead. Holding each other's hands, they stepped in time with the music, following along with the music and keeping each other in their sights and songs.

Everyone will be alright tonight

No one moves, no one talks

No one thinks, no one walks tonight

Tonight

Sonic saw this from a distance and looked to Manic, "He's getting close to her."

"Yep," Manic said, drinking from his punch slowly.

"He kisses her, we'll have to kill him," Sonic said.

"No, too many witnesses. First, we torture him for info, then we execute him publically," Manic said.

Sonia looked up at Knuckles with a smile as she laid her arms on his shoulders and around his neck,"Knuckles, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to put you on the spot. It's just Ii needed a date and-"

"Well, to be honest, I had something to say to you and this was easy," Knuckles said.

"Oh, and what was that?" asked Sonia.

"Well, I...I..." Knuckles paused and looked into Sonia's eyes. For a moment, he forgot what he SHOULD be saying, and instead, leaned in to kiss her softly on the lips.

Sonia let out a gasp, before kissing him back, "Me too."

"Killing him now?" asked Sonic.

"Killing him now," Manic said, reaching for his medallion.

Reaching out, Sonic stopped his wayward brother, "No, you're right. Too many witnesses. We'll wait. We just need to bide our time until we can get him alone."

"Right," Manic said, putting his hand to his chin. "So, what else can we do?"

Sonic watched as the three sirens walked behind some of the curtains, our of sight. "Want to spy on some chicks?"

"Sonic, I'm an eighteen-year-old hormonal virginal teenager. Just try and stop me." Manic said with a chuckle before high-fiving his brother.

"Remember, be safe and be quiet," Sonic said, looking at his little brother.

"Hey, thieving and stealth are my middle names," Manic said, following the girls behind the curtain.

Sneaking slowly, barely making a sound, he found a small door. Rolling his eyes, he pulled out some lock picks from his pocket and quickly made quick work of the small lock. Slowly opening the door, he slipped in behind some old crates, "Meeting in the storage room. Cliche aren't we."

"Ok, so do we have the plan?" asked Adagio.

Sonata paused, "Um, is it to open our bar and grille?"

Aria sighed,"No, it's to get rid of our chaperone and take over this place."

Sonata looked confused, "But then why did that one guy ask me for a meal?"

"What did he ask you?"Aria asked.

Sonata put a finger to her chin, "Hmmmm, something about eating tacos with me? I told him no, I wasn't in the mood fr a taco.

Aria facepalmed.

Adagio sighed and patted Aria on the shoulder. Then she stepped back, "Yes, the plan is to make sure our handler is out of the picture. Then we need to make sure we win this thing and get the chaos emerald. Once we have that-"

"We can bring everyone a big old party and then we can change our names, move to Soleanna, and then start a band!" Sonata said with a big smile.

Aria sighed,"No, we're going to take over the world!"

"Ohhhhhh, and then what?" asked Sonata.

Adagio sighed, "Aria, don't kill her. We need her strength. Look, we all know that we are the best singers here, next to the underground. However, I think we need to make sure we can even the odds."

"Sabotage?" whispered Manic.

"Yeah!" Sonata said in agreement. "Wait, who was that?"

"A mouse," Manic said.

"Ah, wait, Mickey or Aria's old girlfriend Thunderbolt?" asked Sonata.

Aria moaned,"Not her! She's always up in my case!"

"Maybe you should return her calls?" asked Adagio.

"No, she's crazy!"

"Oh, how is she crazy?"

"She kept wanting a commitment!"

"Oh come on, you gotta commit sooner or later," Manic said, "If she is important to you, then you can handle it. Just go to her."

"Yeah, like the green hedgehog that has been spying on us, hearing about our plans to sabotage the other singers, and take the emerald for our plans has been saying." Sonata said, patting her sister on the shoulder, "You sometimes need to take the plunge."

Aria looked down and sighed, "Yeah maybe-"

"Wait," Adagio said, "What was that you said?"

"Take the plunge?" asked Sonata.

"No, the sentence before that, about the green hedgehog?" asked Adagio.

"Oh, there's been a green hedgehog spying on us this entire time," Sonata said, "I saw him on the way in and thought he might want to know about our plans."

"Our secret plans," Aria said.

"Yeah."

"Our secret not to be told plans," Adagio said.

"Yeppers!" Sonata said, with a big grin on her face.

"Our secret, not to be told, never be discussed, top secret, could land us back in Merbotoplis plans that he now knows?" asked Adagio, eyes narrowed in pure rage.

"Yep, those," Sonata said, before putting a finger to her cheek in pondering, "Or was it secret?"

"No, it was a secret and you didn't want to be spied on and now you are mad at me aren't you," Asked Sonata, looking at her elder sister.

"No, not mad... furious!" Adagio shouted. "Aria, kill our little sister. I'll be back with a green scalp."

"NO!" Manic shouted, "I need my beautiful quills." with that, he leaped out of the shadows and threw one of his drumsticks into the boxes and made some of them fall onto the trio. Then he turned to run out of the room, with Adagio quickly recovering to follow him out of the room.

Panicking, Manic began to look around and try to find a way out. Letting out a gasp, he saw Mina walking away from a table with a drink in her hand. Racing to her, he said, "Mina, sorry, but I need you to make out with me!" he then grabbed Mina in a tight embrace and kissed her deeply.

Mina let out a shocked muffle before holding him.

Adagio ran by, looked around, and then looked at the couple making out. Blinking her eyes, she tried to see if she caught sight of the green quills of her prey. Instead, she saw the long purple hair of Mina. Rolling her eyes, she said, "Get a room you two." the gloved hand held a thumbs up as Adagio left.

Breaking the kiss, Manic said, "Thanks," he took the time to take in a breath of air.

"You're welcome," Mina giggled,"What was that about?"

"Um, long story short? The sirens are up to no good and I need to talk to my sibs about this," Manic said, "But you better be careful, you don't know what they are planning."

"Oh!" Mina said,"Well I'm certain you guys can handle it.

Manic smiled, "Well yeah, Sonia and Sonic are unbeatable you know."

"Wouldn't that include you?" Mina said.

Manic blushed a little at this and smiled, "Only a little.

"Hey, you escaped those sirens easily."

"Yeah, with a little luck," Manic said.

"A little luck can go a long way." Mina smiled.

Manic smiled, "Thanks," and he walked away.

Ash looked down and sighed, "An lost another one."

A walrus patted him on the back,"Don't worry, there's always fish in the sea.,"

"Really?" whimpered Ash.

"Really." The walrus smiled.

Ash then gave the Walrus a hug and then walked away.

Sonic began to tap his feet, "Swear, if Manic doesn't get back in five seconds. 5, 4,3,2-"

"Sonicweneedtobecarefulthesirensaregonnasabotagethecompetiton," Manic said rapidly as he approached his big brother, panting.

Sonic blinked for a few moments as if trying to take in the info. After comprehending what Manic said, he added, "Somehow I knew those girls were up to no good. Probably can't tell their handler."

"Why not?" asked Manic, "He could arrest them."

"On what charge? They haven't done anything and it's our word against theirs." Sonic said, "I say we have a little more fun."

"Tails?" asked Manic,

"Tails," Sonic said.

Tails looked up from the van,"Why do I feel like I just got volunteered to do something?" He flew out of the van, before noticing a platypus standing before him,"Starline!"

Dr. Starline held up a hand,"Parley, please. I'm just here to talk."

Tails landed before glaring at him,"Why should I believe that!?"

Dr. Starline smiled,"If I wanted you dead, I'd have killed you by now. But, in fairness, I don't blame you for your mistrust of me." He walked around Tails,"But I'm telling the truth now. I'm only to scratch your brain." HE frowned,"Even if it is inferior to my own," he said under his breath,"I want to know your story... because I'm quite curious as to why and how you are here?"

Tails thought for a moment. He really shouldn't say anything to this guy, but..."I'll tell you, but I want to ask you a few questions as well."

"Very well... though I will work under the assumption that neither one of us is going to be entirely truthful," Starline said. He pulled out a lawn chair and sat down.

Tails stared at that,"What the-"

"What, I'm not going to sit down on a rock! I'm not a savage!" Starline shouted.

"..." Tails frowned,"Why are you here? Answer me that and I'll answer you."

Starline looked up at the stars,"I'm working on something. A plan." He didn't elaborate.

"Fine. I don't know why I'm here, or why you seem to appear wherever I go!" Tails said.

"The correct term would be, you appear where I go." Starline frowned,"You see, I have a theory. Someone, not you of course, or that meddlesome AI that travels with you, but someone knows I and Finitevus are here. That someone sent you to stop me. I don't know why they're not using the hedgehog, but that's neither here nor there."

"What's your deal with Finitevus anyway?" Tails asked,"Are you his servant?"

"Don't be daft! We are merely working for the same goal. I do plan on betraying him eventually, as I know he plans to do the same to me." Starline got up,"I'm only using him because... he brought me back to life."

"Back to life?" Tails remembered when he punched the platypus and felt something metallic.

"Yes." Starline began to chuckle,"You see... I wanted... I admired Eggman." He walked forward to Tails, a manic grin on his face,"I believed in him! I wanted to walk in his footsteps! But he didn't believe in me... he never listened to me..." He began to chuckle,"So I made my own empire... created my own cyborgs... and my plan would end with him giving me the respect I have for him!" He began to laugh,"But I failed... Eggman didn't like what I did! Eggman... I failed him too many times... so he grabbed me by the leg..." He winced,"He slammed me into the ground..." He winced again,"Again,"He winced some more,"And AGAIN!" He laughed,"And then a rock slammed into me, and I died!" He laughed maniacally.

Tails took a step back in horror.

Starline began to calm down,"Sorry about that. I try not to remember my... trauma." He took his shirt and removed it,"I was found by Finitevus later, and he did something to me... I believe it's called... Legionization." He showed his chest, revealing an orb filled with red, yellow, and blue energy that was embedded within him,"He saved my life... and then showed me the many universes that surround my own."

"..." Tails glared at him,"You know what Legionization does to you, right?"

"Are you speaking of that bomb? Please, I got rid of that." Starline smirked,"I'm not that much of an idiot."

Scourge popped his head in, "Hey Starline, ya done yet? Fiona is ready to leave the party and everyone is gonna find out about the punch in a few minutes."

Tails looked at Starline,"Last Question: Why?"

Starline sighed,"Because I can't get away from green rodents apparently." He walked back to Scourge.

"So, were you bored as I was listening to him?"

Tails looked at Scourge, and smiled,"So, who's the boss, him or you?"

"Me of course!" Scourge said with a smirk.

"Okay,." Tails chuckled, before going back into his van.

"I mean, am, right Starline?" asked Scourge.

"Of course. Let us go." Starline said.

Manic knocked on the door of the van, "Tails, we have some problems."

Tails opened the door,"What is it!? The moon is getting destroyed? Robotnik created a Death Egg? A giant water monster has appeared and you need to gather the rest of the chaos emeralds!?"

"...your world is weird man," Manic said.

"I know." Tails sighed.

"No, nothing like that," Manic said, "The sirens are planning to sabotage the entire show and then win the emerald on their own."

"And you want me to help stop them?" Tails asked.

"Yeah," Manic said with a smirk, "My cunning and your intelligence, I think we can manage."

"Okay." Tails said with a smile.

Sonia cuddled up to Knuckles as she looked out the window, "You know, that dance-"

"I was horrible," Knuckles said with a blush and looking away, "I only learned today and I-"

Sonia leaned up and kissed his cheek, trying to shut him up, "Was about as good as I was when I was learning. At least you didn't break your teacher's leg."

Knuckles laughed at this and smiled at her. Looking at her violet eyes, he said,"You know, I never did say thank you. You know, back when I was feeling down because of the emerald?"

"Eh, it was a group effort. Sometimes when me and the guys come up with out songs we just do it." Sonia played with her pink hair, "I don't know how, I think it's some sort of magic or something like-"

"Listening to music of the heart?" Knuckles suggested.

"You are so lucky Sonic isn't here," Sonia said, a small giggle escaping her lips "He would totally mock you for something so cheesy."

Knuckles nodded before adding, "But it wasn't just that song, it was how you stayed with me and was ready to give me hope when I needed it. Not very many people do that for me."

"Well, it was for someone who needed it and you are a good person deep down," Sonia said, rubbing Knuckle's cheek.

Knuckles smiled at this and looked at Sonia. He breathed slowly as he looked at her in the shining moonlight, wanting to tell her how much he loved her. How she looked so beautiful, and...his mind started to think back, "Sonia, I need to tell you-"

"OK young lady," Sonic said, hooking his arm around Sonia, "Curfew time! Time for good little princesses to go to bed and get ready for the big day tomorrow."

"Sonic, what are you-"

"See ya later Knux!" Sonic said, "Chaperone and virgin alarm specialist coming through and picking up his little sister."

"Sonic! I am 18 and do not need a-" Sonia's voice was muted out by a rushing sound of wind.

"I'll see you tomorrow," Knuckles said, pausing for a moment. Then he growled, "DAMN IT! I FORGOT!" he then punches the wall, cracking it.

Antoine glared at him,"Please don't break my walls!"

"Oops, Sorry," Knuckles said.

"Thank you." Antoine walked away.

Knuckles sighed and looked out the window, "Sonia, I hope you're ready for this."

Robotnik stepped out of the shower, walking towards a few robots that had is clothes prepared. After a few minutes of placing him in his uniform, he paused in front of the mirror and looked at himself. He took some time to pose and stretch his body, admiring his physique. With a smile, he asked, "Sage, have they arrived yet?"

"Yes sir," Sage said.

"Good, make sure that they are appropriately seated," Robotnik said, adjusting his belly and looking back at the mirror again, "Sage, do you think that I need a new look for when I take over the world?"

"A new look would make things more interesting, sir," Sage said.

Robotnik played with his mustache in contemplation and smiled. Nodding, he turned to walk into the large meeting room where several animals all sat. Sitting at the head of the table, he asked, "Gentlemen, I trust you are all comfortable? Have we eaten well?"

One of the nobles smiled,"Oh, you always serve the best dinners. But, you still haven't told us what this meeting is about?"

"It's about the new age that's to come and how well you have been providing your services so far."

"Oh, yes, I think we did well, don't you all?" A haughty elephant said.

They all nodded, subtly clapping their hands. Except for two, a coyote and a young hound. The coyote just clapped and muttered, "Merde, I do not like where this is going."

"What do you mean?" asked Bartleby.

"I do believe, he has something up his sleeve," the coyote said.

Robotnik stood up and nodded, putting his hands behind his back as he walked around the table, "Indeed you have. You have helped to fund my technology, my advancements, and my conquests. We are all a big family here, right?"

"Yeah, family," was the group's call.

"And in the family, we have different tasks. Being the matron, being a father, or even being the breadwinner. All are important to the family and all help each other, right?" Robotnik asks, watching the animals nod and even cheer. "That is why, when I feel like one of you has betrayed me, you have betrayed the family. That is bad and should be punished, right?"

Bartelby began to squirm, "Um, right?"

Robotnik nodded, "And that is why," he pulled out a gun, "You are grounded sir." and in a flash of light, the young dog was robotized. As the dog stood up from the table and walked away to perform his tasks, Robotnik put away the gun, "Now about the new era. As I said, you have all eaten well. Fed from how the lower people were sacrificed to me, working while you grew fat and complacent. Happy to wallow in the wealth you have taken for yourselves while thinking your god will save you."

The group of animals all began to question the speech, looking at one another as he continued, "But as we all know, God died a long time ago. Now, only science and steel rule this world, and I rule science. This means that I have all power, except for that I have given you. That ends today," he then walked out the room, slamming a glass wall around the nobles.

"W-wwhat is this!?" asked a young drake.

"The robotization chamber," Robotnik said.

"Oh, that's... the WHAT?!"

"You see, I know some of you have been aiding the rebels, and some of you have kept things from me," Robotnik said, looking over his shoulder, "And all of that ends today. After so long, my greatest achievements are done and now it's time for your usefulness to end. Let's consider this, your retirement! Welcome to the working world boys!" and with that he pressed a button on his gauntlet, "Any heroic speeches?"

Armand got up from his seat, and gave a heavy sigh as his legs began to roboticize,"I have only one regret: That is I only have one life to live for Mi Queen! Long live Queen Aleen-" He held up a hand to shout before he was completely taken over by machinery.

"And there we go," Robotnik said with a smile, his mustache raising up as he looked at the robotized animals.

"Sire, we have successfully robotized the other members of their entourage and some of their families are being hunted down as we speak," a robot with three drills said.

Robotnik smiled at this and began to laugh as he walked through his base, "Oh, what a wonderful day! What a grand day. I think I'll...sing a song!"

When the Devil is too busy

And death's a bit too much

They call on me by name, you see

For my special touch

Happily, he ran a finger along a robotic chicken. Looking into the robot's dead eyes, he sang his next verse.

To the gentlemen, I'm Miss Fortune

To the ladies, I'm Sir Prize

But call me by any name

Anyway, it's all the same

Behind him a bunch of robots started to play violins at an uptempo speed, matching Robotnik as he moved and danced to the beat. Each lyric he sang was followed by him moving along with the action.

I'm the fly in your soup(He throws some soup out the window)

I'm the pebble in your shoe (HE throws a stone at a bird)

I'm the pea beneath your bed (He crushes a little pea)

I'm a bump on every head (Hits a swatbot against the head)

I'm the peel on which you slip (He trips a robot)

I'm a pin in every hip (Sticks a pin into a bots side)

I'm the thorn in your side (Rams a thorn in another)

Makes you wriggle and writhe (A little bee writhes as she is slowly robotized)

Robotnik bowed slowly to his robot slaves as he walked down the stairs. Making his way to the final step, he took a little bow before extending his arms in a grand gesture, squeezing his fingers in pure glee. Before him, a small hologram appeared.

And it's so easy when you're evil

This is the life, you see

The Devil tips his hat to me

I do it all because I'm evil

And I do it all for free

Your tears are all the pay I'll ever need

He watched with glee as the hologram showed the egg fleet launching an attack. All across the field, it showed the possible destruction and wrath that his assault as about to cause. This caused him to laugh as he turned around to head down a hallway with prisoners being loaded on board his main carrier.

While there's children to make sad (He saw a ladybug girl cry as she was taken)

While there's candy to be had (He took a lollipop out of a pink hedgehog's hand)

While there's pockets left to pick (HE stole a Sonic trading card from a fan and ripped it.)

While there's grannies left to trip down the stairs (He kicked an old walrus woman down the stairs)

I'll be there, I'll be waiting round the corner (Peeks around a corner and scares some animals)

It's a game, I'm glad I'm in it (Knocks away a chessboard that he was losing.)

'Cause there's one born every minute

Making his way back to the end of the hallway, he turned back to look at his captives and the innocents as they cried and begged. Sounds around him were of people wanting freedom once more and in response, he could only brag and sing.

And it's so easy when you're evil

This is the life, you see

The Devil tips his hat to me

I do it all because I'm evil

And I do it all for free

Your tears are all the pay I'll ever need

Spinning around, he walked into a small chamber that led to an elevator. Stretching out his arms, he allowed his robots to begin to undress him as he rode the elevator up towards the main cockpit of the head of the egg fleet.

I pledge my allegiance, to all things dark

And I promise on my damned soul

With his old attire removed new clothes were placed on his body. A short red coat with two sets of zipper pockets on either side of his chest that opened to show long black pants. A pair of boots added to his attire to make it look like one long black leg.

Grabbing a pair of gloves he put them on slowly.

I pledge my allegiance, to all things dark

And I promise on my damned soul

Reaching out with his left hand, he happily took a pair of sunglasses to put on his eyes.

Lord Beelzebub

Has never seen a soldier quite like me

Reaching out to his side, he then grabbed a pair of goggles to place on top of his head, finishing his new look

Not only does his job, but does it happily

Stepping out, he began to walk down the hallway that led to the bridge. Images played in his head as he sang the next verse

I'm the fear that keeps you awake (HE scares a baby tails)

I'm the shadows on the wall (He stands as micheal myers behind Manic)

I'm the monsters they become (HE stomps through a city, now a kaiju)

I'm the nightmare in your skull (Sonia gets slashed by Robotnik and a clawed glove)

I'm a dagger in your back (Now wearing a ghost-face mask, he stabs Sonic)

An extra turn on the rack (Now dressed as Leatherface, he tortures Queen Aleena)

I'm the quivering of your heart (Sitting in a room, writing down Shigeru Miyamoto's name into a death note)

A stabbing pain, a sudden start (Wearing a hockey mask, Kills Sonic with a chainsaw.)

Stepping out onto the bridge, he began to dance and sing in a bombastic way.

And it's so easy when you're evil

This is the life, you see

The Devil tips his hat to me

I do it all because I'm evil

And I do it all for free

Your tears are all the pay I'll ever need

And I do it all for free

Your tears are all the pay I'll ever need

And I do it all for free

Your tears are all the pay I'll ever need

Before making his way to his seat, he stops in front of a set of pictures. One shows an older man with his granddaughter on his lap, and another shows a photo of a young man with his wife and daughter. The picture with the old man was marked "Grandpa and Maria." the other was marked "Bro and Hope.". Then he looked at a photo of an impossibly fat woman wearing a mumu and a mustache that matched his perfect. The words "Mama" scrawled on it. As he touched each photo, he began to look a little forlorn.

It gets so lonely being evil

What I'd do to see a smile

Even for a little while

And no one loves you when you're evil

After a pause, he grabbed all three pictures and threw them out the window with an evil laugh

I'm lying through my teeth!

Your tears are all the company I need

As the music died down, he began to laugh evilly and uproariously. Taking a step to the bridge facing the window, he raised a knee and put his hands behind his back, "Launch the Eggfleet Armada! We make our way to Station Square!"

"Sir, isn't singing a big villain number being hypocritical?" Asked a monkey robot. To which he was answered by a small laser blast.

"Remind me to remove the word hypocrite from the dictionary," Robotnik muttered.

Sage nodded,"Commencing word removal."

Sonia walked down to the sound of her brothers talking, "So, what's the plan?"

"Well sadly, we have to wait until noon before te show starts. Which means-"

Sonia rolled her eyes as she kissed Tails good morning while he ate his cereal

as she said "Which means another two hours of torture for our fearless leader. Oh, what will he do besides moan and drive his siblings up the wall?"

Manic laughed a little at this, eating some toast while sitting on the counter. Sonic, in response to his sister, stuck his tongue out at her, "Well, excuse me, princess."

Sonia arched an eyebrow at this and ressited the temptation to take the mayo she had taken out of the fridge for her sandwich and rub a little bit of it on the hedgehog's nose. Instead, she just said, "My Apologies, Princie!"

Manic got off the counter and walked to Tails, "Five mobians on one of them either splattering each other with food or Sonic losing this match."

"You're on!" Tails said.

"Look, I'm just saying if we get there now, we can have a headstart on those Siren girls," Sonic said, taking his plate and then throwing it at the sink.

"And I am saying that we don't know how they are going to perform their subterfuge. We have to wait and let Tails work his magic. We need to tune up and," without missing a beat, Sonia grabbed the thrown plate with two fingers and spun it around before putting it into the sink, "get ready."

"Sonia, our instruments come from magical amulets we wear," Sonic said, getting up and tapping his foot, "They are literally magical. We met our Tails because he tried to figure out our equipment," he pointed to the two-tailed fox for emphasis, "We don't need tuning."

"Practice, remembering the lyrics," Sonia asked, looking at him, "You know, those important things."

"That come from something," Sonic said.

"To quote the cheesy monks," Manic said, "Our harmony creates our lyrics!"

In response, Manic was wrapped in a blur and had a piece of cheese put into his mouth. Standing at the door, Sonic said, "Like he said. We can get there with one second left and we would still be fine!"

"Fine, then just run around the city or-" there was a whoosh of air as Sonic left, "Something. Fine! Me, Manic, and Tails will handle the details you big blue speedy dork!" Sonia yelled out the door.

Sonic raced back and hugged her, "Awwww, you called me speedy! Thank you sis!" and then he ran off again.

"GRRRRRRRR!" Sonia growled, "He's an adopted clone, he has to be! I'll talk to mother and she'll tell me he's a clone and my real big brother is some black hedgehog with familial issues that needs us to bring him back into the light."

"No, he's probably stuck in a base somewhere." Tails muttered.

Sonia paused at this and looked at Tails.

"Uh, never mind." Tails muttered.

"Well, then come on," Sonia said, "Let's get to the stage and see what we're dealing with."

Sonic raced through the town, only pausing at an all too familiar chili dog stand. Pausing he watched as they began to set up.

Sally looked up and waved to him.

Sonic waved back, "Hey there."

"You're early." Sally said,"Or are you impatient?"

Sonic ran behind her, "Mainly column B."

Sally smiled,"I figured that."

Sonic ran around, helping set up, "So, heading to the big music battle?"

"Mmm-hmm. Heard this group called Sonic Underground's playing. Not sure if you've heard of them." Sally gave a wink.

"Eh, I might," Sonic said, waving his hand a little, "They're pretty cool. Especially that headliner.

"Eh, the headliner's okay, I guess." Sally looked at her fingernails.

"Ok? Only ok?" Sonic said, shocked.

"I mean... I'm not sure if he impresses me..."

Sonic lands from fixing the last part of the cart, "Doesn't impress? He's a hero, how doesn't he impress."

Sally got onto the sidewalk,"Well, he's a bit brash, a bit full of himself, and cocky."

"Hey he may be cocky, brash, and full of himself, but he..." Sonic paused, and counted off as he watched Sally walk away, "What was the other one?"

Sally looked back at him with a wink.

Sonic felt a small shudder come through his spines and smiled a little at this. Shaking his head he spun like a little top to stand in the middle of a doorway on a threshold and wearing a red jacket,"You knock me off my feet now baby, WOOO!"

Hey, pretty baby with the high heels on

You give me fever like I've never ever known

You're just a product of loveliness

I like the groove of your walk, your talk, your dress

Sonic watched as Sally walked away coyly, almost as if inviting him to follow her. Winking at her and walking behind, he moved to her left and danced around her, before finishing off with his hand in the air. This shifting and moving to a beat only he heard, left Sally very unimpressed as she lightly booped his nose. Standing up from being tilted, Sonic turned around and began to slide his feet along the ground while he followed her.

I feel your fever from miles around

I'll pick you up in my car and we'll paint the town

Just kiss me baby and tell me twice

That you're the one for me

Sally lightly tucked his chin, and walked ahead, going into the grocery store for supplies. As Sonic watched this, he began to snap his fingers, summoning to his side a fox, a tanuki with a red hat, a wolf with a green tunic, and a ring-tailed lemur. As they joined up with Sonic, they waited for Sally to step out of the grocer's, adding their voice to Sonic's lyrics.

The way you make me feel (The way you make me feel)

You really turn me on (You really turn me on)

You knock me off of my feet (You knock me off of my feet)

My lonely days are gone (My lonely days are gone)

As Sally stepped out of the grocer's, she stepped back in shock when she saw Sonic and his backup dancers. Sighing, she twirled and stepped to the side of the hedgehog and his little team. Making some little taps as she walked away, she too snapped her fingers to bring the attention of a blue fox who began to dance with her as Sonic sang.

I like the feelin' you're givin' me

Just hold me, baby, and I'm in ecstasy

Oh, I'll be workin' from nine to five

To buy you things to keep you by my side

Soon three other girls stepped and danced with Sally: a white cat with a pink parasol, a dragon with a long blue and yellow dress, and a shy wolf. They began to move along with Sonic's gang in tune to the beat as it went in a rhythmic motion of dance. The appropriate couples looked back at one another as Sonic continued.

I never felt so in love before

Just promise, baby, you'll love me forevermore

I swear I'm keepin' you satisfied

'Cause you're the one for me

Each member of the gang began to dance with a particular girl, while Sonic and Sally began what one could only call a dance-off.

The way you make me feel (The way you make me feel)

You really turn me on (You really turn me on)

You knock me off of my feet now, baby (You knock me off of my feet)

My lonely days are gone (My lonely days are gone)

Sonic and Sally would come close to each other, circling one another while dancing. Soon Sonic would step up close to her, tucking her chin just in time for Sally to spin away from him and playing with his she danced close to him. She could almost hear her friends cheer.

Go on, girl!

Go on!

Hee hee, oww!

Go on, girl!

Sally smirked at this and continued to dance with Sonic, their movements in synch as Sonic continued with the next verse of his song.

I never felt so in love before

Promise, baby, you'll love me forevermore

I swear I'm keepin' you satisfied

'Cause you're the one for me

The way you make me feel (The way you make me feel)

You really turn me on (You really turn me on)

You knock me off of my feet now, baby (You knock me off of my feet)

My lonely days are gone (My lonely days are gone)

Sonic ended with one final twirl, taking Sally by the hand, spinning her into a tip, and looking into her cerulean eyes, "Impressed?"

Sally cupped his face,"Okay, a little impressed."

Sonic couldn't help but smile at this as he took Sally's hand in his and began to walk with her back to her cart, "So, is your dad that old king? Cause I had a bet with Sonia."

"I don't know." Sally said,"Dad doesn't talk about his past very much."

"Too embarrassed by it?" Sonic asked walking with her.

"I guess..." Sally sighed,"My brother is the only other one who knows but he dodges me every time I ask."

Sonic looked surprised, "You have a brother? He isn't one of those, I'm-gonna-kill-ya-if-you-touch-my-sister-wrong types is he?

Sally giggled,"No, he's a bit of a dork."

"Ah, so we have something in common," Sonic said, "He would be good friends with my sister."

"I bet."" Sally laughed.

"So does he come around much?" asked Sonic.

"Not as much as he used to. He got married a little while ago, much to the disappointment of a lot of customers." Sally giggled.

Sonic shrugged, "Hey, the customers know what they want. I mean, after all, a little eye candy can help with bringing in the customers."

"Don't I know it." Sally said.

"After all, you are definite proof of that, brains and body," Sonic complimented.

"Thank you, I take pride in my brains."

Sonic smiled, wanting to add what else she could take pride in but chose not to so he didn't get slapped. Instead, he asked, "Tell you what, how about I get you guys to the stadium, real quick?"

"I would like that!" Sally said.

As soon as she said that, She would find herself in the stadium. Another second, and her father was there, followed by the supplies for the chili dogs and a rose for her.

"Ooh, a rose, just for me?" Sally giggled.

Sonic was about to respond in his usual manner, but was ear grabbed by a grumpy triplet, "SO! This is what you were doing while we were working." Sonia said, grabbing Sonic by the ear and pulling him away, "Sorry big brother, but as acting sister and potential virgin alarm, I need to keep you in check. Come along."

"ow ow ow ow, see ya, Sal, ow ow," Sonic winced.

Sally giggled before waving at him.

"You realize, ow," Sonic said as he was being dragged back to Tails, "That as an older, ow, brother, this is my job?"

"Look between you and Manic, I swear your hormones are in overdrive," Sonia said.

"Yeah, and what about you and-" Sonic paused, "Come again,"

Sonia pointed over her shoulder to where Manic was talking to Mina, blushing and laughing. Sonic blinked, "Tails...how long?"

Tails laughed,"I'm guessing since yesterday..."

Sonic smiled a little, and then turned to his little brother, "So, got everything ready?"

Tails nodded,"Yep!"

Scourge was somewhere, napping away.

Starline poked him,"Scourge, we're getting ready to go."

"What? Already?" asked Scourge, "Don't we have time to sleep?"

"You've been sleeping, Scourge," Starline said.

Scourge grumbled as he put on his clothes, "Fine. Let's go do your little ego trip and hear your melodious voice."

"Wonderful!" Starline grinned.

There was a knock on the door, and there was some tea.

"Tea?" Starline cocked an eyebrow.

There was a note.

He picked it up.

Free tea for the most intelligent person here.

Starline stared at the cup for a long time. Before frowning,"How stupid does he think I am!?"

Scourge walked by, "So, you aren't the smartest guy in the room?" .

"Of course I am! But why would I take a random tea cup in that was placed in front of our door!?" Starline said,"It makes no sense unless it's Darjeeling!"

The note read, "It is."

"Damn it." Starline took it.

His throat tightened/

Starline attempted to speak, but couldn't.

Scourge gasped, "Oh gosh, you lost your voice? Don't worry big guy, I've got this." turning back to the van, he shouted, "Fiona? Get, the mix tape."

Fiona squeed,"Ooh, your special mix tape!?"

"The same," Scourge said.

"Goody!" Fiona ran off.

Starline whimpered.

The arena was quiet as the music began. The announcement sounded throughout the stadium, "And now, for our first contestant. The Sci-fi...I'm sorry, I mean, Scourge nand the minions!"

Scourge stepped onto the stage, letting the music play as he threw up his hand.

Everybody, yeah

Rock your body, yeah

Everybody, yeah

Rock your body right

Backstreet's back, alright

The crowd began to roar...in a series of boos and yells. Scourge could only stop and watch in horror as the crowd began to turn against him, "Oh come on!" he said as he was dragged off the stage, "We have Nickleback, Linkin Park, and an MLP villain, but BACKSTREET BOYS ARE TOO FAR FOR THIS FIC!?" and with that, Scourge was dragged off the stage.

Adagio clapped her fins, "And that's one down."

"The only one," Sonic said with a smirk, "Anyone else who loses is gonna do that fair and square."

"But, no one is doing any square dancing," Sonata said, with a quirked eyebrow.

"Aria, take your sister for some tacos," Adagio said with a facepalm.

Starline grumbled, grabbing a ring to leave this place immediately.

"Hey, at least we were noticed, "Scourge said.

Starline glared at him for a moment before leaving.

Adagio laughed as she saw this, and then turned to Tails, "Do you think you can save them all?"

Tails looked at her,"Yes."

"Confident aren't you?

"Yep."

Adagio chuckled and walked away. Aria walked up right behind her sister, "They look determined."

"Yeah, what are we gonna do?" Sonata asked.

Adagio smirked and said, "We're gonna rock!"

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

The triplets found themselves standing in front of several players in the stage, each preparing their work. Tails was in the background, starting up his tech. In the shadows, Adagio smirked cruelly as she watched her plan began to take form.

Turn it down you say

But all I got to say to you is time and time again I say No!

No! No! No!

Tell me not to play

Well, all I got to say to when you tell me not to play I say No!

No! No! No!

So, if you ask me why I like the way I play it

There's only one thing I can say to you

Some of the bands found themselves with new instruments, or broken strings quickly being fixed. Others, found themselves narrowly avoiding falling rafters or broken floors. As Adagio watched this and her plans beginning to fail slowly, she let out a roar as her turn came up.

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

The crowd went wild as the second round began, with many of the contestants falling by the wayside. Adagio looked back at Sonic and his siblings. With a smirk, the triplets gave a thumbs up in victory, while Adagio narrowed her eyes and held up a finger in response. Sonata looked at the pixilated blur in confusion, before gasping as she realized the vulgar display her older sister gave.

There's a feelin' that

I get from nothin' else and there ain't nothin' in the world that makes me go!

Go! Go! Go!

Turn the power up

I've waited for so long so I could hear my favorite song so, let's go!

Go! Go! Go!

When it's like this I feel the music shootin' through me

There's nothin' else that I would rather do

The next few rounds played out with a high fever, each band giving their all. But none seemed to be ready to wage war as much as the two sets of triplets. Every drumbeat, a cannon being shot off.

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

Each keystroke of a piano was an arrow being shot and every guitar strum was a sword slash between the two singers. Every time the triplets walked off the stage, they would glare at each other with the full energy of two armies in a pitch war against each other. All around them, new attempts from the sirens to destroy the competition would ring out.

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

I wanna rock!

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Tails watched their attempts to sabotage each band like a hawk watching his prey. Every time the sirens' plans were about to start, Tails began to foil them. For anyone else, it would be an impossible task. But for Tails, it was easy as next to him, a lynx dressed in goudy 90s garb began to do her best to help Tails with his task.

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

I wanna rock!(Rock!)

Rock!(Rock!)

Manic smiled, "Nice job tails," he said, high-fiving his little bro.

Tails giggled as he reciprocated the high-five,"That was fun!"

Mina let out a breath as she got ready.

"Mina, we might have a problem," one of Mina's band mates said.

"What?" Mina asked.

"It's our drummer," the fox said.

"What's wrong?" Mina asked.

"Some chick offered him a quick trip for some fun," the fox said, "Only to take him someplace where he can't get back in time. We sent for a ride but by the time he gets back we'll be disqualified."

"What!?" Mina slumped over,"What... what-" She thought for a moment,"I know what to do." She ran over to where Manic was.

Manic looked at Mina as she ran to him, "Mina, what's going on?"

"I don't have a drummer! Do... do you think you could fill in?" Mina asked.

Manic's eyes went wide as he said, "Of course!"

"Oh, thank you!" Mina hugged him.

Manic couldn't help but swoon as Mina hugged him and he smiled. Looking back at his siblings, he was about to apologize when Sonic said, "Go, help her. "

Tails was snickering all the while.

Sonia looked to Tails, "What's so funny?"

"Oh, in my universe, she was dating her manager, Ash. He always seems to get his butt kicked though."

"The poor guy, I hope they make it," Sonia said, "I can imagine a lot of guys would be after her.

"Most of the Freedom Fighters." Tails said,"Except for three. Two are married to each other and one swings for the other team."

Sonia could only blink at this, while Sonic chuckled. Then he paused and went, "Wait, even your Sally?

"Yes, surprisingly." Tails said,"She goes both ways."

Sonic could only blink and shrug, "Learn something new..."

Mina handed Manic the music sheet,"I know we've only got ten minutes."

"Plenty of time," Manic said with a confident grin.

"Good!

The stage darkened as the audience began to quiet down and allowed the name to be called out. Mina sighed and stepped out with a smiling confidence in her eyes. Turning to look back at her group, she allowed to music to start. Then she turned to look at Manic and smiled warmly as she started to sing

I know that you're hiding things

using gentle words to shelter me

your words were like a dream

but dreams could never fool me...

Not that easily

Manic sighed as he started to find himself losing to the beat and sway of the song. Fr a moment, he saw himself as a child once more, learning to steal on the streets under the watchful eye of his father. Over the years, he watched himself grow from a little boy into the teen he had become. Using his skills to steal from the nobles, but never from the ones who had nothing.

I acted so distant then

didn't say good-bye before you left

but I was listening

you fight your battles far from me...

Far too easily

Then his mind moved to the best and worst day in his life. The best because he walked onto a stage away from his father to meet his siblings. The worst because that was the day when his father was robotized. He let his mind wander then, through his good times with his siblings and the bad times. The tragedies and happiness. He then turned his eyes to look at his siblings waiting in the shadows.

'Save your tears 'Cause I'll come back'

I could hear that you whispered

as you walked through that door

but still I swore to hide that pain

when I turn back the pages

Shouting might've been the answer then

what if I cried my eyes out and begged you not to depart

but now I'm not afraid to say what's in my heart...

He smiled at them warmly and turned to go back to drumming.

"I think we lost him," Sonic said, looking at Sonia.

"Yeah, I think so too," Sonia sighed, "Our little bro is growing up."

'Cause One Thousand words

Called out Through the Ages

They'll Fly to you

Even Though I can see

I Know That Reaching you

Suspended on Silver Wings

Oh One Thousand Words

One Thousand Embraces

Will Cradle You

Making all of Your Weary Days Seem Far Away

They'll Hold you Forever...

As the instrumentals play, Sonic leans back and looked to Sonia and Manic. Deep down, he knew one day they would move on, and he wouldn't have a problem with that. He understood what it meant to move on and live your own life in your own way. For a brief second, he looked back at his shoulder and he could see his Uncle Chuck giving him that lesson.

Oh One Thousand Words {One Thousand Words}

Have Never been spoken {Oh Yeah}

They'll fly to you

they'll carry you home {carry you home}

Come back into my arms

Suspended on Silver Wings {On Silver Wings}

And One thousand words {oohh}

Called out through the ages {called through the ages}

They'll cradle you {oh yeah}

Making all of your lonely years to only days {only days}

They'll hold you forever...

"He does know, if he wants ot move on, he could..." Sonia began but was interrupted by Sonic.

"He's a little brother. He needs a little reminder that we're always there for him once in a while," Sonic said.

Ohhhhhhhhhhh

One Thousand Words...

Adagio smiled, "We still will win this, Aria did you remember to have a little talk with one of the judges?"

"If by talk you mean knock them out, yes."

"But Adagio said to talk," said Sonata, blinking.

."... I'll explain later, Sonata."

"AW, ok sissy!" Sonata said, hugging her sister.

Aria mumbled something.

"And ze final two bands are, Sonic Underground and the Sirens," Antoine said.

Sonic paused, "What?"

Tails frowned,"This is bad..."

Sonic smirked, "Don't worry Tails, we got this."

"Yeah..." Tails smiled.

Sonia smiled as she walked behind Tails, "As much as I argue with him, our big brother is right. Those girls don't stand a chance."

"No, they don't."

As the stage began to darken, Adagio said with a smirk, "Ready to watch all you love fall?"

There was a twang,"No. Because we're gonna beat you." Sonic smirk.

The stage began to dim and darken around the two bands. Adagio could feel her magic starting to rise up around her and her sisters while she smirked at Sonic, "Oh, prince...you don't know who you are messing with"

Princie, you're a boy, make a big noise

Laying in the street, gonna be a dead man someday

You got mud on your face, you big disgrace

Enjoying putting you into your place, singin'

We will, we will rock you

As Adagio sang, Orange energy joined with Aria's Purple and Sonata's blue to unleash three powerful dragons around the three siblings. With snarls, they began to attack.

Buddy, you're a young man, hard man

Shouting in the street, gonna take on the world someday

You got blood on your face, you big disgrace

Waving your banner all over the place

We will, we will rock you, sing it!

We will, we will rock you

Sonic shook his head as he strummed his guitar, summoning an image of him as a brave knight wielding a blade. Moving quickly, he began to slash and strike at each dragon in a rapid blur of blue lighting. Speeding up the tempo of his guitar, he started to rock out,

Stranger in a foreign land

Fearful cries surround him

Returning home a wounded man

To find he's been forgotten, yeah

Courage is the badge he wears

Blinded by obsession

Wars are won by those who dare

The memory still haunts him

Remember the heroes

Who fight for the right to choose

Remember the heroes

We've all got a lot to lose

This blast of music magic and energy blew the trio back, causing Adagio to stumble. As she struggled to get back up, Aria stepped in and helped her sister, "Oh, they have tricks. How...cute." she said as the music changed tempo while the animals began to get drained of energy.

… I'm not a woman

I'm not a man

I am something that you'll never understand

I'll never beat you

I'll never lie

And if you're evil

I'll forgive you by and by

The dragons began to dissipate, revealing their true forms as monstrous sirens. The light blue one fired a black of water magic that struck the Sonic knight in the side. The next one, Aria, flew above and hit Sonic with an icy wave, forcing him to freeze and take a knee.

… 'Cause you

I would die 4 U, yeah

Darlin', if you want me to you

I would die 4 U

Before the next lyric could finish, a dagger flew out to strike one of the sirens. As the sirens looked to the left, they saw that the knight was soon joined by a rouge wearing green as he helped his brother to his feet. Manic, in the real world, smiled at his older brother as he began to drum out a massive solo.

We'll be fighting in the streets

With our children at our feet

And the morals that they worship will be gone

And the men who spurred us on

Sit in judgement of all wrong

They decide and the shotgun sings the song

I'll tip my hat to the new Constitution

Take a bow for the new revolution

Smile and grin at the change all around

Pick up my guitar and play

Just like yesterday

The rouge and knight began to bob and weave, dodging the magic that the sirens began to fire. Sonata began to giggle with joy as she watched the battle take place between them, "Oh I haven't had this much fun in ages! Me nex me next!"

… No matter how hard I try

You keep pushing me aside

And I can't break through

There's no talking to you

… It's so sad that you're leaving

It takes time to believe it

But after all is said and done

You're gonna be the lonely one, oh

The three sirens began to bind together, coming with a new attack pattern. With a growl, one of them slashed t the Sonic knight, causing him to trip. Another one whipped her tail at Manic sending him flying back and then hit him with an ice spell.

… Do you believe in life after love?

I can feel something inside me say

I really don't think you're strong enough, no

Do you believe in life after love?

I can feel something inside me say

I really don't think you're strong enough, no

Then I'll get on my knees and pray

A shield flew through the air, striking the three sirens in succession as a piano joined in with the instruments. Sonia stepped with her siblings to aid in the music.

Where have all the good men gone

And where are all the gods?

Where's the streetwise Hercules

To fight the rising odds?

The cleric began to help her siblings, her magic healing the two as they smiled at their sister.

Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery steed

Late at night, I toss and I turn

And I dream of what I need

I need a hero

I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night

He's gotta be strong, and he's gotta be fast

And he's gotta be fresh from the fight

The trio began to pitch battle, each blow striking against a particular siren as they split into three. Meanwhile, the actual singers smiled in response, "I'm impressed. I thought the Sonic Underground was all bark, no bite."

"Wait, that makes no sense," Sonata said, putting her thumb to her chin,"They aren't puppies, they're hedgehogs. Oh, maybe their sons and daughters of-"

"Dagi, please, let me hurt her," Aria said.

"Later. Right now, I think it's time to end this little game. It's time to show those three that there is a limit to them and we are it," Adagio said, smirking as she began to charge her magic.

I remembered black skies

The lightning all around me

I remembered each flash

As time began to blur

Like a startling sign

That fate had finally found me

And your voice was all I heard

That I get what I deserve

The sirens flew up and began to circle the three hedgehogs. The triplets began to circle up, trying to keep their eyes on their opponents. Then their vision slowly began to become obscured by the icy fog that Sonata began to spread across the stage. Blinded by the fog, the three were unprepared for the sudden grabs by the sirens.

So give me reason

To prove me wrong

To wash this memory clean

Let the floods cross

The distance in your eyes

Give me reason

To fill this hole

Connect this space between

Let it be enough to reach the truth that lies

Across this new divide

Giggling, the three sirens took their new toys and threw them at each other, causing the three hedgehogs to slam against each other hard. Sonic was the first to recover, and the first to be slashed and bitten by Adagio. Desperate to save his brother, Manic raced out, only to be frozen by Sonata and then slapped to the ground. Sonia struggled to get up as Aria began to electrocute her.

As the music began to die down, Adagio laughed at the fallen trio, "And that's that. Any last notes, heroes?"

Slowly, Sonic began to struggle to get up. Panting, Manic laid down his drumsticks in defeat.

There's just no way that we can win

They have epic beats.

Sonic looked at his siblings and shook his head as he got to his feet and glared at the trio of sirens.

Listen to me

They rock so hard because they're not normal mals

Darn it guys

They're gonna make us their slaves

We're gonna be blaze

Sonia shook her head

Sonic continued

Unless we bust a massive monster mama jam

Tails looked at his alt siblings and began to sing as he started up some computer files.

Guys

We've been through so much stuff

Rocked it all and called their bluff

Now it's time to blow thisese suckers down

Aria stepped back in horror as Manic began to drum out his beats, "Uh girls..."

"What is it Aria, Antonie about to announce the winner," Adagio said, watching as the coyote slowly got up in shame.

"Maybe you should look around," Aria said, tapping Adagio on the back.

"What is it..." Adagio gasped as their magical sired watched in horror as the three heroes began to slowly get back onto their feet. Their weapons glowed brightly as three golden rings floated down into each of their hands. Looking back at each other, they held up the golden rings into the sky which caused their weapons to glow brightly in time with Sonic's guitar.

World turns black and white

Pictures in an empty room

Your love starts fallin' down

Better change your tune

Yeah, you reach for the golden ring

Reach for the sky

Baby, just spread your wings

And get higher and higher

Straight up we'll climb

We'll get higher and higher

Leave it all behind

The sonic knight turned into a blue blur as he sped off into the three sirens as lighting crackled through his body. Bouncing into the air, he struck each siren with a bolt of lightning before spinning around them in a tornado. Then as he broke the tornado, he summoned seven smaller little balls of speed and struck the three Sirens knocking them to the ground.

Run, run, run away

Like a train runnin' off the track

Got the truth bein' left behind

Fall between the cracks

Standin' on broken dreams

Never losin' sight, ah

Well, just spread your wings

We'll get higher and higher

Straight up we'll climb

We'll get higher and higher

Leave it all behind

Sonia's cleric jumped high in the sky and brought a holy crossbow. As she began to fall back to the ground, she fired shot after shot of holy energy, pinning the sirens to the ground. Landing on her tiptoes, she began to spin around with wind energy flowing around her as she charged at the sirens. Spinning around, she began to kick each in their throats, stopping their singing.

So baby, dry your eyes

Save all the tears you've cried

Oh, that's what dreams are made of

'Cause we belong

In a world that must be strong

Oh, that's what dreams are made of

Yeah, we'll get higher and higher

Straight up we'll climb

Higher and higher

Leave it all behind

Oh, we'll get higher and higher

Who knows what we'll find?

Manic began to slam the ground, causing an earthquake to slowly sink the sirens into the ground. Then he threw his his drumsticks at the real sirens, cutting their hair and stealing their wallets as Tails began to amp up the special effects, adding his voice to the trio and turning it into a quartet.

So baby, dry your eyes

Save all the tears you've cried

Oh, that's what dreams are made of

Oh baby, we belong

In a world that must be strong

Oh, that's what dreams are made of

And in the end

On dreams we will depend

'Cause that's what love is made of

As the three heroes finished the sirens off, Sonic smirked and grabbed every loose cable he could find. Before the sirens could react, they found themselves trapped in the center of a blue tornado. As the tornado finished, they were quickly bound up in every bit of rope and cable that was there. Sonia finished up with a saunter as she asked, "Any last words... villains?"

"Yeah," Adagio said, growling, "You three are a bunch of Fu-"

"Ah ah," Sonia said, kicking the three out, "Don't swear in front of royalty.

Tails smiled,"Well, that was a good one!" Tails looked around..

A few minutes passed.

He frowned,"Nicole, why haven't I leaped yet?"

At that moment, several egg robots broke through the ceiling.

"Oh boy..."

Off-Topic: Hearsay:

Tails watched as the Sonic Underground played but he didn't hear anything.

Much to his shock, he had gone deaf from listening to their music too much.

"Well, at least I'll be just like Beetlehoven."

Chapter 7: Underground Part 3

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Sonic rolled his eyes and looked at the bots, "Hey Buttnik, didn't you hear? This was a private party. No Eggs, Dict...ators, or men over 1991 pounds allowed."

A small robot showed a screen with Robotnik,"You know I hate not being invited to parties, Hedgehog!"

Antoine came up,"Monsieur Robotnik, what are you doing here? Didn't Papere tell you to leave this place alone ?"

"Oh, you mean Armand?" Robotnik then showed an image of a roboticized ARmand working,"I didn't like his attitude."

"You monster," Sonia said, turning her synthesizer into a gun.

"Sonia now's not the time to compliment the evil dictator," Manic said, growling.

Sonia nodded, "My apologies. You kind-hearted man!"

"So now that we've confirmed that you can't hold a promise," Sonic said, crossing his arms over his chest, "What do we owe the sudden arrival, Eggy?"

"Oh, the usual, taking defenseless animals to roboticize, taking those chaos emeralds, casually informing you that your mother won't see you... ever."

This caused the trio to pause, feeling their hearts drop to the pit of their stomachs. Manic began to shudder, feeling stinging tears come to his eyes. Seeing her brother in pain, Sonia raced to hug her little triplet. Sonic, on the other hand, just glared emerald daggers at his long-time enemy, "You...lie." he growled.

"Do I?" Robotnik showed a video of Aleena falling down a cliff.

There was a deafening silence from the trio as they watched the video. Their bodies froze for a moment as the mother they never knew or would again fell to her demise. The first to break was Manic as he began to cry harder into his sister's shoulder. Sonia was the next to break down, trying her best to hold on as she hugged her brother, "It's going to be ok Manic...it's going to be ok."

"But Mom's... Mom's..." Manic choked, trying his best to hold back the tears.

"Fine," Sonic said, brushing away a tear before fixing his glove. "She's just fine."

"Sonic, how could you say that!" Sonia said, frowning at her brother.

Sonic could only chuckle, "Oh come on. Do you think Mom would really lose to Butttnik like that? Or let herself get killed by him. She would never let that happen."

"You see the video image, don't you?" Robotnik said, "And have I ever proven myself to be a liar?"

"Do you really want me to answer that," Sonic said. "You know that's the best way to break us, and you know how to hurt us. So I don't believe she is dead, because I'm looking into the red eyes of a big fat liar who would lie to get his own momma sent to prison."

"But what if you're wrong," Sonia said.

"Then Buttnik, I hope your army is worth its oil," Sonic said, placing his palm to the ground, lighting crackling in his eyes, "Because No army ya got is going to stop me."

Robotnik laughed at this,"Cockiness will get you nowhere, Hedgehog! If you need me, I'll be in my Egg Carrier. Tata!" He turned off the screen as the egg robos began arming their guns.

Sonia sniffed and held up her gun, snarling, "You know...This is going to be a healthy bit of Therapy,"

Manic sniffed and walked to his drum set, "Say the word big bro."

"Sonia, plan," Sonic said.

"Sonic, grab as many as you can get, Tails, distraction. Manic...drum beat if you please," Sonia said.

manic smirked and trawled his drumsticks, "And on a downbeat, 1...2...3!"

Sonic smirked as he raced off, time slowing down to a crawl as he ran off into a blur. Rushing to each robot he could, he pushed a few into the range of Sonia's energy blasts from her gun. Turning around, he ran back to the stage to grab Antoine and the sirens to save them. Racing around the stage, he grabbed some of the animals that were in their seats and pulled them away before some of the robots could grab at them. Smirking, he would occasionally turn into a ball and spin through the robot's arms or stomach to render it broken.

As his brother raced and the blur began to strike and hit each robot, Manic began to drum harder and faster, small-scale earthquakes to smash the bots in time with Sonia's energy shots.

"Distraction, sure, easy." Tails muttered as he flew around, dodging robots.

Antoine was staring in shock.

"Ant, you ok?" Sonic asked.

"Papa..." Antoine sniffed.

Sonic sighed and looked behind him at the battle as it began, "Look, Ant, I know he just robotized your dad. Buttnik does that to a lot of families. Right now, I need you to get your head straight and focus. I'm about to bring some people to you and you need to help them to safety. Can you do that without panicking?"

"I, uh, I will try..."

"Good," Sonic said, smiling, "I'll see if I can find Bunnie while helping everyone else."

Manic smirked as he threw a drumstick into the eye of one of the bots, "Tails, how's the computer tricks coming along?"

Tails used one of the robots to take down its friends,"I'm still working on it!"

"Good, keep at it!" Manic said, speeding up his drumbeats.

The robots were destroyed, but Bunnie was nowhere to be found.

"Bunnie?" Sonic asked, looking around, and then back to the entrance, "Great...she's been caught."

Sonia ran up to Sonic, "So, how many..."

"Got most of them, but lost a lot of the others," Sonic said, punching his palm.

"Hey, not to ruin the recap guys," Manic said, joining his siblings, "But what did Buttnik mean by "Fleet?"

Tails looked at them,"Want to look outside?"

The group nodded as they ran outside.

There was an entire fleet of ships coming their way.

A red orb flew towards Aleena.

"What on earth?" Aleena asked, slipping out of the bed. Looking to her left, she saw a sleeping little Cream wearing a badge that said Royal Queen watcher. Smiling, she took the little one into her arms and tucked her back into bed. Turning to look at the red orb, she began to follow it.

The orb flashed as an orange echidna appeared before Aleena,"Queen Aleena. I am Tikal." She said. Her eyes closed,"The prophecy is never going to come true. Chaos has arisen from his slumber."

"What? No, this can't be true," Aleena said, "How could this have happened? There's no way someone could disrupt fate like this."

Tikal frowned,"If someone from outside the realms of fate came, they could cut the threads of fate and change what is to pass. The Council of Four can no longer defeat Robotnik. I see only Chaos in the future."

"You mean the beast? Please, tell me if my children can survive this and if this thing can be stopped."

"... Only if the Chaos Emeralds are gathered and retrieved will the three lights be able to stop him."

Aleena sighed and nodded, "So better make sure I get them then. How many does the beast have?"

"At this point, two. But you must hurry. I feel that your caretakers are in grave danger. And I have little time myself."

"What do you mean in danger?" asked Aleena.

"Three bounty hunters are invading their home."

Aleena's eyes opened wide in terror before looking back to the house.

A large orange dog had Vanilla over his shoulder.

"I have to say, you have such manners Dingo," Vanilla complimented. Other kidnappers would be so rough."

"I was always taught to be respectful!" Dingo said," I wonder what's taking Sleet and Nack so long?"

There were screaming sounds from inside the house.

Vanilla smiled, "Oh, don't mind that. Big probably is introducing himself to your friends and Cream is helping. Now, let's talk about you. Have... you been a bounty hunter long?"

Dingo looked down at her,"Well, I have been one since..." He began to count on his hand,"Gosh, 5 years? I think. I don't remember, I was taken by Sleet when he joined the guild. I used to be a car salesman!"

"Oh, you must have been a very good salesman. You are so kind and nice," Vanilla said with a warm smile as she was put down. Behind the two, the house bounced, shook, and creaked from the sounds of rumble. Putting her hands onto his massive orange pecs, she smiled warmly and looked into his eyes. " Your hands should be used for something other than hunting, like, protecting."

"Protecting?" Dingo stared at her beautiful eyes, her eyelashes, her figure,"Well, uh, you know what? Bounty hunting has gotten me hurt more often than not..."

Vanilla put a finger to his lips, and said, "Shhhhh, you have to hurt anymore." she then leaned up and kissed him deeply as the moon showed overhead, lighting their love.

At that moment the house stopped moving and Big came out carrying Nack/Fang while Cream had Dingo on a leash while Cheese continued to kick at his hiney. As they saw the sight of the two lovers kissing, Cream shouted, "Hooray! I get a new daddy."

"I'm so proud of you Cream," Big said, hugging his little friend.

"Great. I get my butt kicked by a small rabbit and he falls in love. Life. Don't talk to me about life." Sleet moaned.

Aleena paused for a moment, "I didn't realize she was this lonely." then she turned to Tikal as if to make sure that her friends were in actual danger and then frowned when the echidna only shrugged in response. Then she smiled for a moment, whispering "This is so sweet though!"

After breaking the kiss, the two lovers stared longingly into each other's eyes.

At that point, a bunch of swatbots came by and grabbed Vanilla to pull her away from Dingo.

"No, DINGO!" screamed Vanilla as she tried to reach out for her boyfriend.

"Vanilla!" Dingo shouted as he reached out, only to collapse to his knees when she was pulled away from his hand at the last minute. Growling, he stood up and put on a headband of love (With the appropriate kanji) and then turned to Sleet, "Sleet, it's high time we left Robotnik once and for all. Will you help me save my girl?"

Sleet thought for a moment,"Screw it, I was thinking of betraying that stupid egg a long time ago. Let's go save her!"

"Yeah!" Dingo then turned to look at Nack/Fang and held out his hand.

Nack paused and looked at Dingo, before saying, "I don't know. The egg does pay well."

"As soon as we win," Aleena said, stepping out of the shadows, "I'll pay you 500,000 mobians. Which, unlike Bottnik bucks only backed by fear, is actually backed by a gold standard."

He of many names smiled and nodded, "All right, I'm in."

And so did Sleet turn Dingo into a rocket car for Aleena, Cream, Big, Sleet, and Nack to join!"

Tails began to scramble,"That's okay, I planned for this!"

"You what?" asked Manic

"I was busy while you were out on the town, and I built a plane just in case Robotnik attacked."

Sonic held a thumbs up to his little brother, "Nice one."

"And it can carry all of us?" asked Sonia.

"Yep!" Tails said.

Knuckles ran into the room,"Guys, I just remembered to tell you that Chaos is coming!"

"Yeah, we kind of know!" Sonic said, "Mayhem all over the place.

"No, I mean-"

"A water monster known as Chaos is out there and is trying to get the rest of the Chaos Emeralds to become more powerful and destroy the world?" Tails asked.

"That... is exactly it..." Knuckles raised an eyebrow.

"Long story," Sonic said.

Sonia gasped, "But, that would mean someone destroyed the Master Emerald."

"Great, more bad news," Manic said, facepalming. "What now?"

"Robotnik is first," Sonic said, "After all, we got time right?"

Tails thought for a moment,"We should be fine as long as Chaos doesn't grab the last emerald we have."

"Knuckles, Could you keep it safe while we're gone," Sonia asked, "At we'll be sure one of them will be fine."

"Wait, you're benching me?"

"Well..." they paused as one.

Knuckles grumbled,"Fine..."

"Hey, we need our second-best fighter to watch things while we're gone," Sonic said.

"Second best!?"

As the plane got started and the others got in, Sonic remarked, "Yeah, next to me of course!"

Knuckles crossed his arms in frustration.

In the Eggcarrier, everything seemed fine. Normal even. Robots were milling about. Animals were screaming for help.

Then the wall burst open, and several figures came out

Sleet pulled out a gun,"Tell Robotnik... we resign." He blasted a SWATbot."

Dingo crossed his arms, while Nack/Fang put on a pair of sunglasses.

Queen Aleena stomped into the base, causing the robots to squeak.

Big threw out a fishing line, wrapping it around a particular bot's neck, and then pulling. The force caused the robot's head to come off leaving the robot to fall in a bunch of scraps. With the robot's head still in its line, Big swung the head around to take out the other bots.

Cream sat happily on top of a bot, while Cheese sat with her grinning...menacingly.

The bot looked at the Chao,"Really?"

Cheese smiled and looked at him with an adorable and curious look.

The robot raised a fist...

The next moment, the robot was running screaming away from the chao.

Cheese went back to eating its fruit in happiness.

Aleena went to a screen,"Okay, it looks like there are two rabbits held here... and a pink hedgehog!?" She gasped,"Sonia!"

The group followed the queen down the hallway, smashing and attacking whatever robot that came their way. As they reached the end, Aleena looked to one of the cells, "Sonia?"

There was a shadow of a hedgehog," Sonia?" A pink hedgehog wearing a Sonic Underground t-shirt and a little yellow skirt came up to the bars,"You mean from Sonic Underground!?" She shouted with glee.

"You're not...her," Aleena said. Then she smiled as she saw her t-shirt, "You must be one of their little fans, miss..."

"Amy Rose! I'm their biggest fan! I have all their memorabilia!" She brought out a calendar,"Even their swimsuit calendar! My favorites are June, July, and August..."

Aleena paused and looked at the calendar, seeing the various swimsuits and poses the triplets were in. Then she asked herself "How did they get these photos?"

"Excuse me, Miss Rose?" asked Cream, "Which cell is my momma in?"

Amy looked at her,"Hmm, I think I saw a rabbit woman getting taken away to be roboticized."

Dingo let out a growl and picked up a laser cannon dropped by a broken swatbot, "NO!" he then began to shoot down the wall in the shape of him as he began to hunt.

They came after him after freeing Amy.

There was a rabbit woman in one room in the midst of being roboticized.

"Le her go you mangy-" he paused and looked at Cream, who was already sending out Cheese to smash the robotizer.

"Let go of Momma you jerky machine!"

Sleet walked over to the rabbit,"This... isn't Vanilla."

The rabbit in question moaned. Her right arm and both legs had been roboticized. She opened her eyes,"Am... am Ah a robot?"

"No," Aleena said, "Thank goodness. But it seems that part of you is robotized. you are onboard one of Robotnik's ships."

"Excuse me, but have you seen momma?" Cream looked over at her.

"Mighty sorry, girl, but Ah haven't seen 'er. Give me a sec." Bunnie wrenched her arm free from the bindings and began to free herself,"Will ya look at that!? Ah'm gonna give those bots a piece of mah mind now!"

"Just like that?" asked Nack, "You ain't gonna have a moment of crises or emotional break or something like that?"

"Oh, Ah'm horrified about this... but Ah ain't got time for that!" Bunnie punched the wall down.

"I wanna be like her when I grow up!" Cream said.

Aleena smiled and patted Cream's head, "Always keep your aspirations high, my faithful subject."

Bunnie then shouted,"Hey, I found someone here!"

They all raced to Bunnie's call.

Vanilla was in a cage that had been opened via ripped apart cage door,"Cream! Dingo!"

"MOMMY!" Squeaked Cream as she ran into her mother's arms and hugged her tightly.

"Darling!" Dingo said, hugging the love of his life and his soon-to-be stepdaughter.

"Aw." Bunnie said with a smile.

"I hear voices!" Sonia and her siblings appeared from the hallway.

Manic stared at the scene before them,"... What."

"Dingo...what are you-"

"Aw, hey guys. I just found the love of my life!" Dingo said, holding Vanilla close.

"Awww,!" the trio said.

Sonia patted Dingo on the shoulder, "That's really sweet of you Dingo."

"T-thanks Sonia." Dingo said before looking to Sleet, "Sleet when this is over..."

"Yes," Sleet said rolling his eyes, "I'll be your best man."

"This is getting really sweet," Manic said, wiping a tear from his eye.

"I know," Sonia said.

Sonic rolled is eyes, "Guys, I'm a fan of love as much as the next guy but we need to go."

"We can spare a minute, right Mom?" asked Sonia as she looked to her mom.

"Yes...yes we can," Aleena said, wiping the tears from her eyes as she began to count in her head the seconds before they realized.

Sonia was the first, "M...moth...mother?" she whimpered, before turning around to look to the eyes of her mom. The first eyes she remembered when she was born, and the eyes that she looked into when she needed comfort. Forgetting all the decorum and lessons that she had learned, she ran to her mother with tears in her eyes as she hugged her mom tightly.

Manic was the second, tripping a little. He wasn't sure what to say or how to act. For all of his life, he only knew of his dad and the world of the dark. And now here was someone he never knew was alive or was going to ever see again. Crying harder than he ever did, he ran into his mom's arms next.

"Sonic?" asked Aleena as she looked up.

Sonic looked shocked, and he could feel every emotion and question that had been boiling up inside of him since his journey began. Why did she leave, why did she follow him, why didn't she do more? He wanted to yell, he wanted to be mad, but he found he couldn't. This was his mother, someone he had been fighting for all his life. Instead of anger, he felt tears of happiness roll down his cheeks as he ran and hugged his mom. "I love you... Mom."

Tails looked around awkwardly, before shrugging and hugging her too.

Aleena smiled as she looked at the young fox and took him into the group embrace as well without question. After holding each other for a bit longer, Sonic was the first to speak, "I didn't believe Buttnik for a second!"

"He did almost have me, I'll admit, but thanks to them," Aleena said, looking back at Cream and family who were enjoying their own reunion. "I was saved. Sadly that was while I was carrying the emeralds that I wanted to give to you."

"You were bringing us the chaos emeralds?" asked Sonia, "But I thought-"

"Your mother had grown tired of waiting for the right time," Aleena said, "I waited 18 years to see you again. Normally I can't stand five seconds! I can only imagine how torturous it was for you three."

There was a pause, as Sonia looked back at Sonic and then to her mother, "Mom...I got my smarts from Dad right?"

"Yes," Aleena said with a small wistful look, "Your father was always the cautious one, always planning and waiting. I had to practically force the issue of marriage on him."

"Way to go Mom!" Manic cheered.

Aleena smiled at this, and was about to talk more, but was interrupted by Sleet," Excuse me your Highness, but we are still on board one of Robotnik's ships, we need to get out before he finds us."

"I'll do you better," Sonic said, cracking his knuckles, "We're destroying this whole place. Tails?"

"Are you asking if I can' break into Buttnik's computer, mess with his systems, and then blow up his fleet?" Tails asked, pulling out a little computer, "I was already doing it while we were hugging each other."

"Good," Sonic said, activating his guitar along with his siblings." Ready Mom?"

Aleena held up her own medallion, a shining microphone, and smirked, "Let's do to it!" and in a flash, she began to sing.

Yeah, yeah

Hey, yeah

I got myself a notion

And one I know that you'll understand

We set the world in motion

By reaching out for each other's hand

Bunnie punched a hole in the wall, allowing for royals to run through the halls. Turning around she kicked down the next wall for her and the others. Looking down, she smirked as she saw a small group of Swatbots raving towards them. Racing forward, she punched the head off of one and took it before throwing it like a Frisby through the bodies of two other bots. Behind her, several bots were shot down where they stood by Sleet, Dingo, and Nack's guns. With another hole opened the team leapt out. Other prisoners followed as they leaped out of the plane, including a preacher. Seeing Dingo and Vannila in each other's arms, he flew close to them to perform a mid-air wedding ceremony.

Maybe we'll discover

What we should have known all along, yeah

One way or another

Together's where we both belong

He had time to finish the ceremony as they landed, "You may kiss the bride."

And as the rest landed in the middle of Station Square, Dingo and Vanilla kissed to the cheers of everyone around them.

Aleena's voice was quickly joined by her children as they sang the chorus.

If we listen to each other's heart

(Oh yeah) we'll find we're never too far apart

And maybe love is the reason why

For the first time ever we're seeing it eye to eye

Sonic raced ahead of the group, seeing a small group of bots swarming at them. Smirking, he sped up, causing a small sonic boom in his wake. Turning into a ball as he approached the moto bugs, he began to saw his way through them before jumping up to cut through the buzzbombers and then hitting the ground.

If a wall should come between us

Too high to climb, too hard to break through

I know that love will lead us

And find a way to bring me to you

So don't be in a hurry

Not missing a step, Sonic ran in a circle around three swatbots. As they floated in the air, he moved fast enough that three images each took care of a bot. Soon his own tornado was joined by Sonia's as she took out some robots of her own. Landing on a small set of wires, she began to grind and shoot laser fire at various bots while the other three ran ahead.

Think before you count us out, oh

You don't have to worry

I won't ever let you down (nothing's gonna stop us now)

Manic began to throw his drumsticks, acting as small little discs to take down other bots that came their way. The metal clanking of the royal's footfalls gave way to loud thumping as the computer room came into sight. Behind them, a roar was heard as a giant bipedal tank walked. Turning to look at his mother and adoptive brother, Manic smiled and nodded ahead.

(Chorus)

If we listen to each other's heart

We'll find we're never too far apart

(Oh yeah) and maybe love is the reason why

(Oh yeah) for the first time ever we're seeing it eye to eye

Manic turned around, summoning his drumset. With wild abandon, he began to drum hard, causing the ship to rumble and shake. The tank found itself unable to get a lock or stand as Manic began to break it to pieces. Aleena took this as a queue to lead Tails to the mainframe. Looking behind her, Aleena gently pushed Tails into the computer room. Tails looked behind him and then narrowed his eyes in determination as he began to link up his little pad to the computer mainframe. Looking up, he saw a young girl with a little saber and a text reading, "Shall we play a game."

Yes, we are (eye to eye, we're seeing it)

Seeing it eye to eye (love is why we're seeing it)

(Eye to eye) seeing it eye to eye (eye to eye)

(We're seeing it) yeah, seeing it eye to eye

(Love is why we're seeing it) I think we're

Seeing it eye to eye (eye to eye, eye to eye)

(We're seeing it) yeah, eye to eye

Tails smirked, "Let's play."

Aleena looked at the army of swatbots and turned her microphone stand into a blade with the head of the microphone as a pommel. Turning o look, she walked slowly to them as if walking to her death.

If you're ever lonely, stop

The room froze for a bit, beofre the guardian robots were blown away by a laser blast, drumstick, and a blue blur. Sonic raced to stand with his mom along with his siblings.

You don't have to be

After all, it's only

"BACK AWAY FROM OUR MOM!" the trio said as one, making Aleena cry.

"We're never separating again!" Aleena said, "Not after all this time!"

A beat away from you to me

Take a look inside and see, yeah

Sonic looked back at his family and smirked before racing off into the fray.

If we listen to each other's heart

We'll find we're never too far apart

And maybe love is the reason why

For the first time ever we're seeing it eye to eye

Blue lighting crackling along his body, Sonic ran around in a circle and lifted up several of the robots. Using this bit of distraction, Sonic picked up a small collection of rocks and began to throw them at such a speed that they became small bullets being fired from a high-powered rifle. Down below, Sonia began to provide cover fire as Manic began to slam the ground to create small earthquakes. Any bot she missed was quickly cleaved in twain by a slash from the queen.

Whoa (for the first time), for the first time

(Eye to eye) for the first time ever, eye to eye (seeing it)

Seeing it, baby (seeing it eye to eye, for the first time ever), yeah

Yeah, for the first time (we're eye to eye), first time

(Yeah) yeah, baby, (seeing it eye to eye)

Inside the computer room, Tails clacked on the keyboard. On the screen, the white-haired girl began to sweat as each of Tails' little attacks with his puppy were destroying her defenses. Smirking, the white-haired girl began to prepare an attack, only to get knocked out by Nicole who was now wearing a goth outfit.

We're seeing it (for the first time ever) eye to eye (eye to eye)

Yeah (we're seeing it), come on, baby (seeing it eye to eye)

Eye to eye (eye to eye), eye to eye, eye to eye

Yeah (seeing it eye to eye), for the first time ever, eye to eye

Tails cheered as he clacked the last few keys, smiling as he looked a the screen as ti read

Enemy ships surrounding the main ship, destroy all Eggfleet ships.

With a small cackle, he ran out of the room, yelling out, "WE need to leave!"

"Eh, this party was getting boring anyway, " Sonic said, grabbing his family and running to the tornado.

On the main craft, Robotnik could hear explosions, "Sage, sweetums. Why is my fleet dying?"

Sage appeared with bandages around her and her arm in a sling,"I was hacked.

"What? Oh, my poor baby girl!" Robotnik said, rushing over and hugging his daughter close. He rubbed her head, "It's going to be ok sweetie."

"Thank you..."

In a massive blast of explosions, the Eggfleet was destroyed. While the rest of the crowd cheered, Nicole mentioned to Tails,"Tails, problem. Z still says that you have to inspire. We haven't completed the task."

"Oh come on, what do I have to do!?" Tails shouted.

At that moment, Knuckles landed next to him, knocked out.

Sonia ran to Knuckles' side, "Knuckles what happened?"

"Sorry..." Knuckles moaned,"I couldn't stop it..."

Sonic shook his head, "Oh, you don't mean."

That was when a roar sounded from beyond the city.

Several waterspouts began to appear within the city.

A red light came over as the city quickly flooded.

Tails looked up to see a large watery monster head come from a skyscraper,"Oh no..."

"Let me guess, that's Chaos?" asked Manic.

"Unfortunately." Tikal appeared from the bead of light,"He needs to be sealed again."

Sonic turned to Tikal, "And good would that do?"

"Yeah," Manic said, "It's not really going to change, is it? It's still going to be angry and it won't go away."

"It'll just be trapped, forever." Sonia said, "And we'll be back where we started.

"But how will you defeat it?"

Tails frowned,"Hmm, I wonder if it only took the negative energy of the emeralds?"

"Negative?" asked Sonic.

Sonia gasped, "Of course, like a battery. It would have both a positive and negative side right?"

Tails nodded,"Maybe the Chaos Emeralds still have enough positive energy for you three to still use them."

"But the emerald could be anywhere. They could be spread all across the city," Sonia began, "And it would take someone of great speed to-"

"Found them!" Sonic said, appearing behind Sonia with the emeralds in hand and giving the trio two each with one in the middle, "Yeah they were all across the city."

"Great, so...how do we get these things to work?" Manic asked, "Because I don't think we got much time before that thing launches a tidal wave at us."

Sonia shrugged, "I guess that is something we'll figure out."

Sonic looked up at the nearest tall building and smiled at his siblings, "So, anyone for the greatest concert of their lives?"

"Hey, you know it, big bro," Manic said, stepping towards his brother. "Just know that I have something I need to talk to you guys about after we save the world."

"I think we know," Sonic said, putting his hand on Manic's shoulder. "But right now, let's go all out."

"After all, this is the way it has to be." Sonia said, hugging her brothers, "The Sonic Underground is ready to save the world from anything."

Sonic strummed his guitar as he looked to the beast, a poem that played in his head ringin' out.

"The servers are the seven chaos

Chaos is power

Power is enriched by the heart

The controllers serve to unify the chaos."

Looking down at the people below, he shouted into a mic, "Attention all Mobians, don't let Chaos get you down, for the Sonic Underground are here and ready to rock."

"Yeah, who's ready to let the good times roll and rock and night!" Manic shouted.

"Welcome to the final concert of the Sonic Underground!" Sonia shouted as the emeralds began to spin around them, the seven colors briefly returning to the gems as they bathed the trio in a blinding light. As the light began to fade, the trio were changed. Sonic's blue body was now shining gold, his red eyes opening wide. Sonia's pink faded away to reveal a light blue fur with a bright flame while next to her Manic had turned into a dense orange.

It was not just bodies that had changed, so too did their instruments. Sonic's guitar's base was now a star with a double S emblazoned on it. Sonia's piano was now electric pink with its keys awash in colors while Manic's drum set was blazoned green. Looking back up, Sonic smiled and shouted, "Now, let's ROCK THIS JOINT! Chaos, this one goes out to you!"

"1,2,3!" Manic shouted.

Sonic strummed his pick across the strings like never before, the strings beating out a quick beat that created lighting in between each stroke. Manic started to drum out a quick beat, creating a sympathetic response in time with his sister as Sonic began to sing.

Whoa-

All right!

Thunder, rain and lightning

Danger, water rising

Clamor, sirens wailing

It's such a bad sign

Shadows of dark creatures

Steel clouds floating in the air

People run for shelter

What's gonna happen to us?

In a flash, Manic appeared before the tidal wave and started to strike his drum hard. The resulting strikes began to create a green shield that blocked the tidal wave and pushed it back. This also began to cause waves to shimmer along Chaos's blue watery skin. Sonia flew to each erupting water spout and began to spin around each funnel turning them into a bright pink glow before shattering into thousands of pieces.

All the steps we take, all the moves we make

All the pain at stake

I see the chaos for everyone

Who are we? What can we do?

Sonic looked up at the monster, its slitted green eyes glaring at him. Super Sonic smiled as he took off across the ground before turning into a blue lightning bolt. The creature began to slam each one of it's tentacles down upon the approaching blur, only to miss with each strike. As Sonic reached the monster, he rushed up it's inner body in a tornado while sending out bolts of pure magic through it's core before being spat out of it's head.

You and I are same in the way that

We have our own styles that we won't change

Yours is filled with evil and mine's not

There is no way I can lose

Sonic landed on the other side of town and placed his hand on the ground. There was a warm feeling flowing through him as he felt his two siblings on either side of the city. Nodding,he took off once more in a bright blue lighting bolt. From the other parts of the city, Manic and Sonia began their own race towards the watery beast.

As the song moved into its chorus, the trio began to sing a lyric and Sonic sang back in response.

Can't hold on much longer

(But I will never let go!)

I know it's a one-way track

(Tell me now how long this'll last!)

I'm not gonna think this way

(Nor will I count on others!)

Close my eyes and feel it burn

(Now I see what I've gotta do!)

Open your heart, it's gonna be alright!

Chaos lashed out bolts of energy, but they were quickly dispersed by shots from Sonia's rifle. When it lashed out a tentacle, Manic's drums would break it down into pieces. The combined strikes from the two siblings left an opening for Sonic as he raced into the beast and created a tornado that turned the creature into a water spout and dispersed it.

Standing there as a small beast, he looked up to see Tikal. A warm smile appeared on his lips as he felt at piece and reached out to the echidna girl before fading away. The trio saw this and smiled at each other before looking back at Robotnik's last ship. With a silent nod and a chuckle, the three took off in blurs of lighting.

As they flew off, Sonia and Manic took over the next verse.

Ancient cities blazing

Shadows keep attacking

Little children crying

Confusion, hopeless anger

Manic began to fly to the various cities that they had visited on their journey, using his power over earth and stone to fix the polluted and decayed cities. As he did this, Sonia began flying across the cities playing her lovely piano. As she struck the various notes, the mobians began to return back to flesh and blood animals. Families lost were quickly reunited and joined in song as the heroes began to save the world

Sonic flew up to Robotnik and sang his next verse while wagging his finger at him in a teasing fashion.

I don't know what it can be

But you drive me crazy

Sonic then stuck out his hand and gave Robotnik a thumbs-down

All your cunning tricks make me sick

You won't have it your own way

Sonic began to fly around Robotnik's main aircraft, turning into a living buzzsaw composed of lighting. His quills began to cut through the ship, leaving behind giant cuts inside the metal. On occasion, he began to fly in and out through the ship, causing it to resemble a large red slice of swiss cheese. As he did, he began to sing while his siblings responded.

Can't hold on much longer

(But I will never let go!)

I know it's a one-way track

(Tell me now how long this'll last!)

I'm not gonna think this way

(Nor will I count on others!)

Close my eyes and feel it burn

(Now I see what I've gotta do!)

Open your heart, and you will see!

All right

Yeah

As the music began to play and the ship started to explode, Robotnik began to rant, "I hate Royalty."

Sonic began to sing, smiling as he cut through Robotnik's ship.

If it won't stop

There will be no future for us

Its heart's tied down by

All the hate gotta set it free!

"I despise Rock n Roll," Robotnik said in frustration and in defiance of the song

I know it's one-way track

(Tell me now how long this'll last!)

Close my eyes and feel it burn

(Now I see what I've gotta do!)

Gotta open your heart, dude!

"But most importantly," Robotnik said, looking at his fading monitors as he watched his empire crumble and turn into dust.

"I..."

Can't hold on much longer

(But I will never let go!)

I know it's a one-way track

(Tell me now how long this'll last!)

"HATE THAT HEDGEHOG!" Robotnik shouted as the ship exploded, with the dust turning into a winking Sonic face with a finger sticking up.

I'm not gonna think this way

(Nor will I count on others!)

Close my eyes and feel it burn

(Now I see what I've gotta do!)

Sonia flew down to Knuckles, giving him a deep kiss on the lips, as Manic did the same with Mina before flying back to the rooftop of the building

Open your heart, it's gonna be alright!

Sonic sang this last lyric out loud as he flew past his friends, wrapping and tilting Sally into a passionate kiss, and then flying to join his siblings to the cheers of the city.

Yeah!

Open your heart!

Yeah!

Open your heart!

Yeahhhhhhh

Sonic sang this last lyric slowly, thrusting his fist into the air as fireworks went off, sowing the words

Thank you, Sonic Underground

Manic spun his drumsticks in one hand as the cheers went down and smiled at the audience and the reader, "I'd like to say thank you on behalf of the group and ourselves, and I hope we've passed the audition."

Aleena ran over to hug them,"Good job, everyone!"

The trio hugged her back, "Thanks, Mom."

Tails flew over to them,"Wow, that was so amazing!" he frowned,"Why haven't I leaped yet?"

There was a tug on one of Tails's tails, "Excuse me, Mr. Tails?" it was a small purple kitten wearing a light purple dress. "Could you give me your autograph?"

"Um, me? I'm not anything," Tails said, looking over his shoulder, "It was Sonic and the others."

"But you are special effects and so smart. And you have those," she pointed to Tail's twin tails, "You can do so much. I'm just little me."

"Hey," Tails said, writing down his name, "I can only do what I do because I have someone who inspired me. He saw me and my gifts for what they were. Just a part of me. And he showed me that I don't have to be fast, strong, or any other thing to be as great as he was. Just need to be me and be the best at what I do. You just need to find the best way to use your gift. You know?"

The little kitten smiled and held up her hand, "I think I do..."

"Princess Blaze!" An older woman came out to take the kitten's hand, "There you are. It's time to come home and learn about your duties."

"Ok. See you later Tails!" Blaze said, waving goodbye.

Nicole's eyes went wide as she looked back at Tails, "You don't think that was-"

"You've gotta be-" A bright flash of light came over Tails.

"Kidding." Tails looked around, noticing that he was atop a building overlooking a night city.

"Alright, it's time for Blue Justice and his faithful sidekick to fight more crime!" a version of Sonic said next to him.

"Oh boy..." Tails muttered.

Off-Topic: Fanboy:

Tails tapped his foot,"Admit it author... this was just an excuse to have Sonic Underground play Open Your Heart"

Rick got up,"Yes, and if I had it my way, they'd play Live and Learn too, mwahahahaha!"

Notes:

My apologies for the long delay between chapters. I had a lot of things I had to do.

Chapter 8: Movie

Chapter Text

Sonic, er, The Blue Justice, ran down the building after a robber.

Tails followed close behind,"Okay, am I suddenly in a superhero universe or something?"

Nicole appeared next to Tails as he flew down after Sonic, "Actually Tails you-EEP!" she teleported out for a moment.

"Nicole?" Tails asked.

"Hey, Yellow Crusader!" The blue justice shouted from down below, "I'm waiting for ya! There's an all-night hot dog house here!"

"OOh!" Tails flew down to him, Yellow Crusader. I kinda preferred Zonerunner, but oh well...

"Remember hero rule #2 young fox," Sonic said, munching on a chili dog, "A great hero remains well-fed."

Tails had one in his mouth,"Yeah, about that."

"Yeah?" Blue Justice asked.

Tails thought for a moment,"So, are you familiar with alternate universes?"

Sonic nodded, "Yeah, different worlds vibrate at different frequencies and ig you vibrate fast enough you can reach it. I love Flash #123."

"Huh. Well..." Tails muttered,"I'm not your Tails right now."

"...what?"

Tails began to explain his situation.

Sonic listened to this, blinking and hanging onto his adoptive brother's words. After Tails was done with his explanation, he finally asked, "So, have you met Sam yet? That guy always seems to meet another leaper once in a while." he then looked to Tails' right, "And is your Al with you now? What weird outfit is she wearing?"

Tails raised a brow in confusion,"What?"

"Ok, little guy, we need to get your genius brain on a Quantum Leap binge." Sonic said, "Mom and Dad are on their second honeymoon so we have full reign of the Roku and I can get the box set."

"Uh, okay." Tails said, I suppose it's something I can do while waiting for Nicole to come back...

Nicole popped up next to Tails, "I am sorry Tails, but you look so weird and furry. It's strange. I mean, look at what this world makes me look like," she then gave a time to show off her body.

Tails looked at her,"Yeah, you do look more furry." He looked at his arm,"I can count my hairs..."

"Yes and your eyes seem bigger," Nicole said. " and Sonic seems...younger"

"He does... he acts younger..." Tails looked at Sonic,"How many times have you beaten Robotnik?"

Sonic looked back at Tails and thumbed his fingers, "Twice, why?"

"Oh god he's a precious baby," Nicole said.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I have to protect him..." Tails muttered,"Scourge would kill him..."

Meanwhile, in a nameless hotel,

Fiona knocked on the bathroom door,"Scourge, come out, you look fine!"

"No, I don't! I look like some reject from DeviantArt!" Scourge shouted, "I'm like if Tyson Heese had a sick day."

"No, you don't, you look almost exactly the same, just... furrier."

Scourge whined, "But too furry. My quills look horrible!"

"Your quills are fine!"

"And my scars look lame now!"

"Your scars still look cool."

"No, they don't and I can't find my sunglasses!

"They're on the side table, you threw them there when you found out what you looked like.'

Scourge let out another cry, "I look like a dork! Just...go away."

"Fine..." Fiona sighed and went back to her bed,"Where is Starline, anyway?"

At a nearby coffee shop, Thunderbolt the Chinchilla, Starline, and a human man in a suit were singing,"I am the Eggman, that's what I am, I am the Eggman..." while drinking coffee.

Tails stared at the screen,"Man, this is like what's happening to me."

"I know, right?" Sonic said, "And ain't it awesome? I mean, it's not actiony, but it's still cool!"

"It is!" Tails said,"How does it end?"

"I don't know, Dad said he had the last disk of season 9 but he said Ozzie played frisbee with it and broke it," Sonic said before frowning at the golden retriever. "So I can't really find it. And I'm not about to spoil it for myself on wiki."

"Huh, okay." Tails said.

Then there was a rumbling sound coming from outside.

Sonic sat up and ran to the window to look out.

There was a large spaceship in the sky that was shaped like a bird.

Sonic turned his head to look back at his little brother, "Um, Tails? I think we've got company. Anyone you know?"

Tails looked out and then looked at Sonic,"Oh, that's just the Armada..." His eyes then widened,"The Armada!?"

"Ok, that name sounds cool but deadly." Sonic said, "What is it?"

"They're a bunch of evil bird people that want to take over the world and stuff like that." Tails said.

Sonic blinked and smiled, "Your other world is sounding awesome, anyone tells you that?"

"... Either I get told it's awesome, or weird..."

"So, how easy did you kick their butt?" Sonic asked.

"I needed a little bit of help... and a robot dog."

"Well, you got one better. A big brother," Sonic said, "Now, let's show them the power of brotherhood and justice!" he then raced off.

Nicole popped up, "He's dead."

"Yep." Tails flew up and after him.

Sonic ran ahead, a smile on is face as he made his way to a small clearing, "So, if I was a place to land, where would I hide?"

Tails had a backpack on as he flew next to Sonic,"We do have a Tornado, right?"

"You already named it?" Sonic asked.

"He didn't!?" Tails stared back at him.

"Well, he didn't have time. He just finished rebuilding it yesterday."

"That's good enough for me!" Tails smiled as he flew off. He flew back,"Where did he put it?"

Sonic raced to the back of the house and pulled back a tarp, "Having a big backyard has its advantages."

"Hello again..." Tails rubbed its side,"It seems we're never too far apart."

Sonic got on top, "You need a moment?"

"Not right now, we need to stop them..." Tails whispered.

"Good, let's show these guys they can't handle," Sonic paused and thought, "Need a cool team name."

"Freedom Fighters? Sonic Underground?" Tails suggested.

"Freedom Underground!" Sonic said.

"... Let's go with that."

"Yeah, now, let's rock!" Sonic said, crouching down and getting ready for light.

Tals flew up to the battleship.

At that point, three bird people came flying down on hoverboards towards them.

Sonic stepped back, "More friends?"

"Oh no, it's the Babylon Rogues, what are they doing here!?" Tails shouted.

Sonic looked at Tails and then back to the Rouges, "Hey, rouges! What are ya doing here?"

A green hawk flew down to Sonic,"We saw ya comin' up here and we decided to kick your butts!"

A purple swallow flew next to Tails,"Nice plane you got there. Shame if something happened to it." She laid on her board, holding a wrench in her hand.

"You wouldn't," Sonic said.

"I would." The swallow said.

Sonic stuck a leg out to try and kick the swallow.

The hawk swooped in and kicked Sonic.

Sonic let out a grunt as he tried to regain balance

Tails tried to move around,"Hold on tight!"

Sonic tripped and swayed, "I'm trying, trust me!" he tried to uppercut the green bird, "Hey, don't you know it's rude to kick a guy's ass without giving your name?"

"You're right, name's Jet, the girl messing with you're plane's Wave, and the guy behind you is Storm.

"Behind me?" Sonic asked.

"Howdy, name's Storm," Storm said. "Ima gonna punch ya,"

"Please don't, it'll hurt," Sonic said.

"Jet, he said please, should I listen?" asked Storm.

Jet crossed his arms,"Hmm, he's young, impressionable, not understanding of the universe around him. Nah, punch him."

"Ya heard the boss," Storm said with a big smile and punched Sonic hard in the stomach.

"Ooof!" Sonic said as he was sent flying.

"Sonic!" Tails then heard the tornado's engine give out,"Not again." He flew out of the plane and towards the hedgehog.

"Tails, did I get punched by a big stupid guy?"

Tails held onto him,"Yep."

"You know," Sonic said, dizzy, "I wasn't expecting that to happen to me twice in my life."

"Oh, you tangled with Knuckles! Is he here?"

"No, I have no idea where he went." Sonic said, "He said that he wanted to go on a little trip somewhere."

"I swear to the Ancients if he finds some xenophobic echidnas with delusions of power..." Tails muttered.

Sonic could only blink at that statement.

"Sorry, memories." Tails said,"I need to fix my Tornado... again."

"Sorry," Sonic said, "But you can do it easily."

"I know, but it just happens too many times." Tails grumbled

Sonic looked back up, "So, what do you think the new baddies are after?"

"Probably world domination." Tails looked at him,"Are there other furry animals like us in this world or is it only humans and we're just aliens?"

"Right now the furry population is just the three of us and a bunch of weirdos on the net who like to write weird fanfics based on furry creatures with human bodies." Sonic said.

"That's... strange. But not too strange, I've heard stories about the Overlanders..." Tails muttered.

"But yeah, it's just us," Sonic said, "Unless there's someone out there I don't know about."

"Okay. Well, that's nostalgic for me..." Tails whispered,"Just me and Sonic versus a tyrannical dictator.."

"Man, I keep missing out!" Sonic said.

Tails stared into the distance for a long while,"Yeah... you do..."

"I mean, fighting tyrants, beating big bads, fighting aliens?! That is just freaking cool!" Sonic said thrusting his arms up into the air before laying back, "Hope I get to be that cool."

Nicole sighed and looked back at Tails, "You know, you were like that once."

"I know." Tails muttered,"I can't believe I'm in a world where I'm the responsible one!"

"How does it feel?" asked Nicole.

"Really weird."

Sonic looked back at Tails, "Talking to your Al?"

"Yeah." Tails said,"Except she's a holo-lynx."

Sonic blinked, "What?"

"YEah, she was a computer but then created an avatar of herself that looks like a lynx."

Sonic blinked at this.

"It's complicated."

"I'll say," Sonic said, and then began to tap his foot as he waited for Tails to finish.

Tails leaned back, the plane fixed up,"We should wait until nightfall, otherwise we're just gonna get attacked by the Rogues again.

"Yeah, and personally, not looking forward to getting punched in the gut like that.

"So..." Tails thought for a moment,"Can you tell me more about this world?"

"Well, it's pretty awesome. Lots of room to run and explore. Awesome forests and giant balls of twine!" Sonic said with a smile, "And a place called New York that has the most awesome chili dogs. Well, the second is awesome.

"Second most?"

"Well, there is this restaurant with my name on it," Sonic said.

"That's a weird coincidence.

Sonic nodded, "I know right? I tried to get a discount but they wouldn't let me."

"They should! I mean come on!"

"I know! I saved the day twice you would think that a place with my name on it would have a deal or two," Sonic said.

"And this whole place is just the small part of the world!" Sonic said, "I mean, there is places with tons of computers, anime, comics, and action films." he smiled, "Remind me to show your other self die hard."

Tails laughed at this,"Hey, Nicole, how is my other self doing?"

"He is doing well. A little shell shocked by our world but is impressed by everything here," Nicole said, and hen let out a giggle, "Though he is complaining about your cleanliness.

"My cleanliness!?"

"You left behind a very messy desk,"

"It's an organized mess!"

Nicole rolled her eyes at this, "That's what Sally said too and a mess is still a mess."

Tails pouted.

Sonic was busy continuing to list the awesome things about the world, only to stop to see Tails pouting. Mockingly, he said, "Hey, whatever your AI pal just said, tell her to quit it."

"No, it's fine." Tails said,"Trust me, we've been friends since I was a kid. Well, even more of one."

"Ok, because I like to think," Sonic said, racing up to him, "No matter the world. You are still my little brother. I think I may be new at this, but...you don't need experience to be a good big brother. Or a hero, right?"

Tails smiled at him and chuckled,"I know a Sonic that could learn something from you."

"Wait, some mes are jerks?

"Two actually. One seems to hide his pain under jerkiness, the other is an evil counterpart."

"You mean I get my own mirror verse self? Oh please tell me he has a gotee!" Sonic said.

Tails laughed,"No, he just wears shades and has a leather jacket.

Sonic frowned, "Oh no, he's a try-hard."

Tails stared at Sonic for a few seconds before laughing.

This caused Sonic to laugh along with his little brother.

"You should hear his name. Scourge."

"OH god, how edgy," Sonic laughed.

"If only he could hear you now."

Scourge cried, "And I bet people are making fun of me!"

"No, they're not!" Fiona sighed.

"Ye,s they are!" Scourge whimpered.

Night fell.

"All right, let's do this," Sonic said.

They got into the plane and took off.

The ship drew near, its hanger suspiciously open.

"Totally not suspicious," Sonic said.

"Yeah, but I don't see another choice.

"So, let's be stealthy."

Tails landed the Tornado and hopped off.

All around them were boxes.

Sonic landed and ran to the end of the hall in a blur

Tails followed after him. He began hearing the sounds of fighting.

Sonic paused and looked in.

A purple cat was burning some birds.

"Uh Tails? There's a sexy cat girl burning things," Sonic said. "I think natural selection is takng place."

"Blaze!" Tails said.

Sonic blinked, "Who?"

"She's a friend from another dimension!"

"And I'm guessing good girl?" Sonic asked.

"Yes!"" Tails said, before waving at her,"Blaze!"

Blaze stood on top of one of the birds and smiled wide, "Tails, Sonic." She quickly regained her composure, "It is good to see you both."

Tails hugged her,"I'm so glad to see you too!"

Blaze smiled, "So, you are the traveling Tails."

"Yeah," Tails leaned in,"Careful, this Sonic's young."

"...Define young," Blaze said, after blinking a few times.

"He only fought Robotnik twice."

"Oh god he's a baby and precious," Blaze said.

"Yep."

"Well, with any luck he wont go too reckless," Blaze said.

"Well, well, well." Jet said atop a balcony.

Sonic looked up, "Hey, it's the bozo. Where are your friends cookie and sandy."

Jet smirked,"They'll come when you least expect it, Spikey."

"Spikey? Ain't you impressive with the insults, feathers."

"Better than you, blueboy."

"Hey, blue is a royal color green-jeans.

"Ranger Green sounds so much cooler."

"Eh, it's overrated," Sonic said.

"Ok, that's it ya little punk!" Jet grabbed his board and flew at Sonic.

Sonic moved to the side to try and clothesline him.

Jet was struck and fell off his board.

Sonic slapped his hands off, "See, this is what you get for not having big tough, dumb, and stupid around.

"Excuse me." Storm said from behind Sonic.

"Ah, the tough dumb stupid one," Sonic quipped.

"Take that back!"

"ok, ok." Sonic said apologetically, "You ain't tough."

"Thank you..."

Tails blinked,"Wait

"Give him a moment."

"Hey!" Storm punched at Sonic.

Sonic moved to the left, "Too slow."

Jet came up from behind him,"Try this!"

"Try what-" Sonic gasped and turned into a ball to roll out of the way of the incoming board attack Standing back up, he tried to jump out of the way of the punch from the storm.

Wave came in from the top,"Hi there!"

"Hi?" Sonic said, "Are you going to try and beat me up?

"Yep!"

"How about you beat him, he tried to use your board as a weapon," Sonic said.

Wave looked at Jet,.

"Wave, you know I wouldn't!" Jet said

That was when Blaze shot out a small unnoticeable fireball at the waveboard, scuffing it. Sonic, catching on, said, "Look, see?"

Wave glared at Jet.

Jet's eyes widened,"Wait, Wave-"

"Yeah, and he probably would've broken such a beautiful board too," Sonic said with concern.

Jet took a step back before Wave attacked him,"

Storm stepped towards them, "Now guys," only to hear a loud crack. He looked down and saw his own board was broken in half, "...oops."

Wave let out a screech,"DO YOU REALIZE HOW HARD I WORKED ON THOSE!?

"Um, two minutes?"

Tails walked away,"Might as well take on the rest of the fleet.

Sonic chuckled, "Awww, but I want to see how this argument goes!"

"We don't have time to waste!"

"Fine," Sonic relented as he ran on ahead.

They soon came to a large chamber filled with birds working on weapons.

"Hey! Free t-shirts!" Sonic shouted.

The birds turned,"Free t-shirts!"

"Just outside of the plane!"

"Sweet!" the birds left.

Sonic smiled, "Thank goodness they ain't too bright."

"Except for me, punk." A voice said.

"Who said that?" Sonic asked.

A small green bird with an eggshell on his bottom appeared,"Speedy's the name, fastest bird in the Armada!"

Tails gasped,"Diaper Bird..."

"It's an eggshell!"

"Totally a diaper," Sonic said.

"It's an eggshell!" Speedy shouted.

Sonic looked at the bird,"Still totally a little diaper, just admit to your fetish and we'll stop teasing you about it."

"THAT'S IT!" Speediy flew at Sonic.

Blaze snapped a finger, unleashing a small fireball his way.

Speedy let out a yelp as he was burned.

"Would you like to try again?"

Speedy blew on his tail feathers,"Alright!" He charged at Sonic.

Sonic moved to the side.

Speedy landed face-first into the floor.

"You're just a starter boss, ain't ya?" Sonic snarked.

"..." Speedy frowned,"Yeah."

"Should I have pity on you?"

Before Speedy could say something, Tails said,"Yes."

Sonic then took out a marker, "Ok.

"What's with the marker?" Speedy asked.

Sonic marked down, L, on his forehead.

Speedy fumed before kicking at Sonic.

That's when a voice yelled,"Halt."

Everyone froze for a second

A robotic green bird appeared.d

"You're new."

"I am Packbell."

"...Packbell?" Sonic asked, "Clever name."

"I know." Packbell smiled,"My father gave it to me."

"So, did he want you to be a delivery bird or something? And please tell me you are a cyborg," Sonic said.

"I'm a robot, actually."

"Oh, that should be easy then," Sonic said with confidence.

Packbell held out his arm to Sonic,"Time for you to die."

Sonic raced in with a punch.

Packbell grabbed it.

"Oh, that's a problem."

Packbell threw Sonic to the ground.

Sonic went for a sweep kick

There was a tink sound.

Sonic did it again, twice.

Packbell looked at him,"This version of Sonic is weaker than I'd imagine."

"Hey!" Sonic said, getting back up/

Packbell looked at him,"I mean what I say."

"Wait... this version!?"Tails blinked.

"Wait, you travel through dimensions?" asked Blaze.

"I was sent here to kill the fox."

That made Sonic pause "What?"

Packbell nodded,"My... employer wanted me to get rid of the fox."

"Why does he want to kill tails," Blaze said, forming a small fireball.

"All he told me was that he's doing an experiment." PAckbell said.

"Is it Starline?" Tails asked.

"No."

"Then who, and who is Starline?" asked Sonic.

"Long story short," Tails said,"Platypus fanboy of Dr. Eggman who I've been unintentionally following throughout this little adventure."

"His name is Dr. Finitevus."

Sonic blinked, "How do you even pronounce that properly."

There was a long silence.

Tails looked at him,"I don't know. He never bothered to correct us and I'm sure my Sonic pronounced it like, 3 different ways."

"Maybe someone should ask."

Tails thought for a moment,"Unless even he doesn't know how to pronounce it."

"And all Finitevus thinks of us as pawns?"

"Yep." Tails said.

Blaze stood in front of Tails, "Want to continue with Sonic while I'll handle this?"

"I'm okay with that!" Tails said with a nod.

Blaze sent a fireball at Packbell, "Now, how about you play with an adult."

"Aren't you like, 14?" Packbell shielded against the fireball.

"Well considering that I am more mature than the other two," Blaze said.

"Fair point." Packbell flew at her.

Blaze ducked under him and tried for a kick into his stomach.

There was a clang before the robot struck at her.

Blaze winced in pain before grabbing his hand. She then drove a fire thumb into it's eye

Packbell leaped back, holding his eye,"Ah, my eye!"

Blaze smiled as she flexed her claws.

Packbell held out his fist and fired it out.

Blaze moved to the side and spun into the air with a jump, her body enveloped in a tornado of flame. She then kicked Packbell hard in the stomach.

Packbell slammed into the ceiling before spinning around and firing a rocket from his chest.

The missile missed Blaze, but the explosion knocked her back a little towards the wall. Slowly getting back up, she wiped a bit of blood from her cut lip and growled.

Packbell landed, extending his talons.

Blaze ran at him, before sliding along the floor in between his legs. Then she jumped up and threw three fireballs at his backside.

Packbell fell forward, before turning to her with a glare. He opened his mouth, firing a beam from it.

She tried to move out of the way, only to get hit in the left arm. She let out a scream of pain but pushed through it as she threw another fireball.

Packbell was hit in the head again. He held it,"You stupid cat!"

"Pathetic bird," Blaze said.

Packbell flew at her.

Covering her hands in fire, she grabbed his hands and began to hold him in the air, letting out a growl, "Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why do this? It's obvious you gain nothing but pain from those who try and stop you!" Blaze aske.

"I am following my programming: Kill the Freedom Fighters."

Blaze let out a grunt as she held her ground, little ruts forming in the floor as she began to heat up, "You are more than that!"

"This is who I am!" Packbell walked towards her, arms splayed out.

Blaze ran up and did a jump kick at his chest.

Packbell fell backward, feeling his systems spark.

"It's over," Blaze said.

"I'll be back..." Packbell shut down

Blaze leaned back and sighed, "Hope they'll be ok."

Sonic and Tails would come to the bridge, where a large bird was waiting for them.

"Big bird! NO!" Sonic shouted, "Why did you betray your friends from the street."

"Fool, I'm Grand Battle Kukku the XV!"

"...I am so sorry that you have been burdened with that name," Sonic said.

"Don't be, it's a proud bird name!"

"Kukku?" Sonic asked.

"Yes, Kukku!"

"Kukku?"

"Kukku, did I stutter!?"

"Yeah, it's about 4 AM Mr. Coo-Coo clock." Sonic mocked.

"Okay, that's it!" Kukku threw a bomb at him.

"Whoa!"Sonic said, jumping out of the way.

Tails flew off, reaching into his backpack.,"Okay, what do you got?" He pulled out a small pistol,"Huh? Looks like I'm going to break this thing!"

Sonic bounced off a wall and tried to strike at Kukku.

Kukku flew up to dodge.

Tails fired a laser,"Whoa, this thing is cool! What else does he have in here!?"

"Oh, so the bird is good at dodging," Sonic remarked. "Get back here!" he said, running up the wall to strike

Kukku was knocked back,"OW!"

"And that is one for me, none for the coocoo clock!"

Kukku attempted to punch him, only to feel gravity push him into the ceiling.

Tails looked at the device,"This thing is awesome!

Sonic smirked and walked to tails, and then turned it off. Then I turned it on again, "This is awesome."

Tails giggled as the bird was hit to the ceiling again and again.

"Can we do this sideways?" Sonic asked.

Tails moved it to the side,"Yes.

Sonic began to play around with it..

Kukku screamed,"Stop, I give!"

Sonic nodded, and then accidentally id one more time.

Kukku moaned,"I'll leave, just make it stop..."

Sonic high-fived Tails.

"Well, that was easy." Tails smiled.

At that point, a bright light engulfed him,"Oh, is that it?"

Tails looked around, before stopping. He looked up at the trees, noticing houses of straw. He turned, seeing a familiar workshop and some familiar buildings. His eyes widened before they teared up,"I'm home."

Off Topic:

Parental Guidance:"Hold on, I gotta call my dad." Sonic said, holding his phone. He nodded.

"Dad?"

"Yeah, I also call him Donut Lord."

At that point, Tails imagined Sonic's dad as a large donut with a mustache.

Chapter 9: SATam

Chapter Text

Nicole appeared next to tails, but before she could say anything, she paused. Her eyes widened in shock as she looked around at the small little village. Memories came flooding to her mind as she began to tear up at the sight of the world she once knew, "Tails..." she whispered, trying to hold his hand.

Tails sat down,"It feels like I'm in a dream..."

Nicole sat down next to him, trying to put a hand onto Tails's back and only to frown when her hand passe through the young fox, "Do you want to take a moment to look it over?"

Tails stared at everything.

At that point, some voices came closer. He turned and noticed a group of animals coming up. He stared at one in particular,"Aunt Sally!" He ran to her.

Nicole gasped and looked at Sally as she turned to face the little fox. Smiling, she leaned against the tree and watched the scene unfold. Sally smiled as she turned from the group of animals, dismissing them for the moment as she looked to Tails, "Tails?" she asked before feeling herself glomped by the young fox, "Ooof. What's wrong? You're acting like you haven't seen me in years."

"It feels like it..." Tails muttered.

"My stars, he looks a little tired too," A southern voice said, putting her flesh hand onto his head, "Maybe the little guy just had a really bad dream."

"Ah, well what do you expect?" Antoine said, "He watched that all night horror fest with zat fuel and probably had such nightmares."

Bunnie looked back at Antoine and rolled her eyes lovingly at him, "That was you Antoine."

"Wat? Moi? Non, never," Antoine said, shaking his head, "I am zee brave and heroic knight of valor. I would never-"

There was a loud bang from behind, causing the coyote to scream high pitched and leap into Bunnie's arms.

"Ahhhhhhh! Zeeee Jason! He had found moi!" Antoine said.

"I'm sorry," Rotor said, stepping out from the workshop, some oil and soot on his stomach and face, "I was trying to fix one of those beam things we found and I think I messed up."

"Oh, of course, I knew that," Antoine said, with a soft chuckle, "My dear Bunnie, you may put me down now, I think I can protect you better on ze ground."

"Nah, Ah kinda like ya this way," Bunnie chuckled before putting coyote down, trying to hide her blush as she really did enjoy holding the coward close.

Tails stared at the scene before him, before tears came to his eyes again,"Yeah... it was a bad dream..." I wish...

A sonic boom was heard in the distance as a blue blur raced by and picked up Tails, "Ok, got a sad fox here. I need to know why I have a sad fox here and why he's sad when he's held by someone awesome!" Sonic said, before putting Tails back down and ruffling his little brother's hair.

"He was upset by a bad dream that he had from a movie night that a certain hedgehog was playing," Sally said, putting her hands on her hips.

"Hey, the vids were completely kid-friendly," Sonic said, "And I even made sure to have Nicole's censor filter on."

"Oh really?" Sally siad, picking up Nicole and flipping open her screen, "Nicole, what is the status of your censor-filter.

"Censor filter off, Sally," Nicole said,almost chuckling, "I was able to show: Friday the 13th part 13: Jason takes Emerald Hill, Nightmare on Elm St 10: back to the streets, and Robocop VI: Vs Predator and Aliens in all of their blood letting visceral glory."

Sonic became pale as Sally turned her eyes onto him. Backing up, he quickly added, "ohlookatthetimetheringshouldbecomingupin10minutes, bye!" and then picked up Tails to race off.

"Sonic, don't forget that we have a meeting in 20 minutes!" Sally shouted.

"Yeah yeah," Sonic said, popping up behind her, "I'll be there before you even say the first letter of my name, Sal." and then dashed off.

Sally let out a small sigh and put her chin onto er hand, "What am I going to do with him."

"I would recommend sending him to zee lions," Antoine said.

A lion walked by, "Nah, too stringy. Besides, I'm a vegetarian."

"Oh, so sorry, I'll think of a rougher punishment for ze wayward-ooof," Antoine moaned at the light nudge from Bunnie.

"Enough of that," Bunnie said.

Tails looked at the ring pool, Feels like it's been forever since I've seen this.

There was a distinct red glow from it.

Sonic looked up, "Whoa, that's new."

Soon, a red ring came out with a star embedded in it.

"And what is that," Sonic said, taking the ring in hand and putting it into his bag

Tails thought for a moment," I need to check something." He flew off towards Rotor

"All right Tails, see you in a bit," Sonic said, getting up and looking at his watch, "Hmmm, 1 minute until she starts roll call."

Tails went into Rotor's workship,"Hey, Rotor, do you any underwater equipment I can borrow?"

"I hought you never ask!" Rotor said, "I've been working on this little submerissable for ages. Though, I still need to work a little more on the pessurizatioin.

"Give me five seconds and some mints, and I'll fix the pressurization."

"Wait, you can do all of that in five minutes?" asked Rotor.

"Seconds," Tails said,"I'm not in a hurry."

Rotor couldn't help but smile at the young fox's enthusiasm, "Well, if you can, I'll get you a large tub of mint ice cream."

Tails let out a squee, before getting to work.

Rotor watched Tails hard at work, smirking as the little fox began to drill and hammer the various parts of the sub, "Wow Tails, you're really good at this."

"Thanks! Though, I learned a lot of it from you." Tails said.

"You did?" asked Rotor.

"Yeah, I always liked watching you work." Tails said,"And I've been picking up some things."

"Oh really, tell me more," Rotor said, taking pride in being a mentor.

Nicole, unseen by Tails and Rotor, found a seat to take and watched the little fox get to work. A little sigh escaped her lips as she watched him move like the little boy he always was, and then looked down. Her body and purple gown just served to remind her of how unlike their world this was. And how they had a quest to complete. Looking back up, she thought to herself, 'I wonder how this world's me is doing. Has she figured out how to do this yet.'

Looking back at Tails, she let a thought stray into her mind, "Tails, I hope you aren't losing yourself..."

"... and then I learned how to fix things up and then I learned how to salvage things..."

Nicole looked back at Tails, and reached out for a few minutes. Then she pulled back and shook her head, "No, let him enjoy being home for a little longer. He...He'll remember, right?"

Tails looked at the sub, a longing look in his eye..

"Wow, nice job Tails. I didn't think I could do a bet...you ok?"

"Huh, oh, I'm... fine..."

"Hey, if you need to talk, we are all here for ya little guy," Rotor said, patting the side of the ship, "Wow, you did amazingly."

"I, uh, I know." Tails whispered.

"You keep this up and you might end up teaching me!" Rotor said.

Tails laughed at this,"Well, I'm not that good..." He whispered.

Rotor laughed at this and patted Tails on the back, "Don't be silly. You're a freaking genius, I don't think I could've figured this out that fast." Standing behind the sub, he began to push it onto some wheels, "Come on, we can check out the lake."

As he began o leave the hut, Nicole put her hand ontoTails' shoulder, "Are, you going to be all right Tails?"

"..." Tails looked at her"This feels like I'm in a dream. I'm scared..."

"Scared?" asked Nicole as she looked down at the little fox.

"Part of me doesn't want to leave. Things were so much simpler, you know?"

Nicole sat down with him, "Tails, I know things were simpler back then, but you can't stay here."

"I know, but think of all I could do. All the things I might be able to change or do for so many people," Tails said, "I could find Knuckles, save Finona, or-"

"And you could be taking all of that away from this Tails," Nicole stopped him, before looking down. "Tails, you stay here and you take away so much from this Tails. All of the growth, adventures, and his own failures. Do you really want to take so much away from him?"

Tails stared at her and then sighed,"You're right." He smiled,"Besides, he might have an easier time than me!"

"True," Nicole giggled and pretended to ruffle Tails' hair, "And besides, Robotnik hasn't gotten to his full potential yet. So there's a chance he can have an easier time.".

Tails nodded,"Yeah." He went down to the lake in his sub,"I have a theory about that red ring."

"What's that?" Rotor asked.

"Uh, are you familiar with the legend of the Chaos Emeralds?"

Rotor blinked, "Tails, those things are so rare and mysterious. No one has ever seen them. What does this have to do with the red ring?"

"Well, I think Uncle Chuck might have found a Chaos Emerald and used some of its energy to fuel the generator."

"You think?"

"Yeah, it's mostly a theory though," Tails said.

Rotor moved the sub closer to the generator.

Tails looked around, noticing a small green object.

"Hey, is that..."

"I think it is." Tails said.

"How did Chuck find an emerald?" asked Rotor.

"I'm not sure." Tails frowned.

Rotor put his hand to his chin in thought, "The question is, how did this cause the red ring."

"Perhaps it caused a mass influx of chaos energy that merged with the ring?"

"But what would cause that?" asked Rotor.

Tails looked at the Emerald.

Tails took it in the sub,"Let's take this back.

Rotor nodded and gently took the emerald with the claw

They soon got out, with Tails deep in thought.

"Penny for your thoughts, Tails," whispered Nicole.

"How did this emerald get here?" Tails whispered,"And what's Starline doing? Maybe I should make a trip to Robotropolis to check things out."

"Let me check." Tails attacked a tree with his tails, only to wince in pain,"Tails not combat capable." He knelt down and attempted to roll into a ball for a spindash, only to fall on his face,"I'm getting Sonic." He was muffled.

Tails went off to look for Sonic.

Sally walked out of the hut, Sonic walking alongside her. Looking down at Nicole, she began to press a few more buttons on the small palm pilot, "I'm just saying, it's weird."

"Maybe he's taking a vacation or relaxing somewhere," Sonic said, "I mean Dic-" he saw Tails coming closer, "-tators need to take a break once in a while."

"Not funny Sonic," Sally said, hiding her smile at his riff. "You're going to tell me that Robotnik is just taking a break and that is why Robotropolis is quiet?"

"Yeah," Sonic said. "But if it'll ease your worry little ead..." he looked back and grabbed Tails. "Me and the little guy will be back in two whooses!"

Tails smiled,"Okay Sonic!"

Putting Tails into his backpack, he turned and smiled, "Be right back!"

"Sadly Nicole there's going to be a day where he'll be too big for that," Sally say.

"I know Sally." Nicole said.

Tails sighed,"I hate being too big for this..."

"You say something little guy?" Sonic asked

Tails let out a muffled,"Nothing!"

Sonic reached back and patted his little brother on the head before racing on ahead.

Tails waited until they reached Robotropolis, Dr. Starline's probably already there. Wonder what he'll do with Snively?The thought made him chuckle a bit.

A lone metal hand clacked his fingers along the arm of the massive chair he sat in, listening to the report from the long nosed assistant, "And this, platypus, managed to do what, Snively?"

"Well, sir, he was able to hack into our security systems and turn off a lot of the grid," Snively said, looking at the report. "Even hacking a few Swatbots before disappearing."

"And, you lost him?" Robotnik said with a low growl, turning his chair to gaze down at his nephew, "Someone, was able to hack into our systems after you had PROMISED me that it would never happen again. On your life I might add."

"Y-y-y," Snively gulped and shook, "Yes sire."

"And he has some of my Swatbots," Robotnik said, scratching his console in rage. "Do you have any good news to report?"

"Um, well, before disappearing, he laid out a message in the lights," Snively said, pointing to one of the monitors.

Robotnik turned and looked, smiling a little as he saw the lights spell out

From your #1 Fan

With a chuckle, he said, "Whoever this animal is, he is very clever. I'm impressed."

"Indeed sire," Snively said, "So when we capture him do we robotize him or do we take him in."

"It all depends on what he wants," Robotnik said.

Dr. Starline grinned as he held the remote control,"Doing all this will certainly make Dr. Egg- er, Robotnik notice me!"

"You will never get used to that, will ya?" asked Scourge.

Starline shook his head,"No, no I will not..."

"So, you gonna introduce yourself boss," Scourge asked, "OR are you still too fanboyed out?"

"Of course I'll introduce myself!"

Scourge teased, "Want me to bring the autograph book?"

"Always!"

"Like Sal said," Sonic said, standing on top of a small building, "Quiet. Way too quiet." Crossing his arms he began to tap his feet rapidly, and then looked up at a well lit building, "#1 fan?"

"There he is..." Tails rolled his eyes.

"Fanboy," Nicole whispered in Tails' ear.

"Majorly."

Sonic raced down the side of the building, only to race back up a few seconds later. Standing still, he crossed his arms, "Ok, so another part of the city is starting to reboot. Whoever this fan boy is of Buttnik's, he's got some weird taste."

Taking a quick look over his shoulder and down towards a small little junk yard, he said, "Let's see if Unc has seen anything. And besides, he might have lunch for us."

"Plus, I wanna ask him something!" Tails said.

"What about?"

"You know about the chaos emeralds?" Tails asked.

Sonic quirked an eyebrow, began to think and then said, "I think Uncle Chuck told me a story about them, he said legends mentioned something about some ancient being split into seven pieces and the emeralds were his parts and stuff. Then he told me he had a different theory-"

"A long time ago, before Mobotropolis, before technology, and anything else, a spaceship crash landed in the area ruled by the echidna tribes. These aliens were on the run from some sort of planet-eating entity that they could only call the end. In return for showing them kindness in their dying days, the aliens gave the gift of the chaos emeralds to the echidnas. These emeralds were said to have near limitless power and able to gift amazing changes to DNA that would turn someone super and then-"

Sonic paused, "That would be when Rosie would come by and tell him that all of his science fiction is ruining the legend and myth of the emeralds."

Tails pouted. He wanted to hear a little more about that!

Sonic raced on ahead, taking time to bob and weave through the streets and avoid the cameras that floated by the streets. After a few short seconds, Sonic made his way to the pile of junk where he knew his uncle was. Giving the side of the pile a few quick raps with his knuckles, he waited for it to open.

"Now, there's a face I knew was coming," Uncle Chuck said as he opened the gate for Sonic and Tails to walk in. Without even a second thought, he hugged his nephew and his honorary nephews. Though being a robot and unable to smile, he really couldn't hide the mirth in his voice as he continued to speak, "Now, I had some chili dogs prepped for the both of you."

Sonic put away his bag and smiled, "Thanks Unc," he said, taking one and throwing it into the air to let it fall into his mouth.

"Remember to chew now there, sunny," Chuck said.

Sonic rolled his eyes and said, "Sure Unc."

"Oh, and Tails, I found some old tech that you might want to play with," Uncle Chuck said.

"Unc, isn't he a little young to want to be an egghead," Sonic questioned as he took a seat.

"Start them off early I say," Uncle Chuck said, "When your father was three I was already making a small drone."

Sonic didn't want to say more, less he forget himself as he usually did when he was near his uncle. Instead, he said, "Unc, what do you know about the-"

"Power outage?" asked Uncle Chuck, "Yeah, I found out about it. That platypus tried to find me while he was hacking. Guess he wanted to give me as a trophy, but I think he didn't realize who the genius of Mobotropolis was."

"So, he's a platypus?" Sonic asked.

"Yeah, hanging out with some sort of hedgehog. But that was all I could find before he turned my systems off," Chuck said, "I think he wanted to show off."

"He did." Tails said with a frown. He was already in the middle of working on something."Sonic... I have something I need to tell you..."

"What?" asked Sonic

"This is going to sound weird, but I'm not your Tails right now."

"What do you mean?" asked Sonic

Tails explained his situation.

Uncle Chuck opened his metallic eyes wide and said, "Wait right there." turning around, he began to look through the various knickknacks and machines lying around, "I know I have it here somewhere."

"What are you looking for Unc?" Sonic asked.

"My Dimensional-origin-chronograph!" Chuck said, reaching back further.

"What's up Doc?" Sonic asked, fist bumping Tails as the little fox let out a giggle.

Uncle Chuck sighed, almost expecting it from his nephew, "Well, you see, I have to do something in between spying. And as Tails can attest, a tinkerer can't do anything without thinking something up." he waited for a laugh and groaned when none came. "And I have been making new tools and such. One I made in case we broke through the void and got the king again but e was an illusion. Magic may be good and all, but it usually runs when hit with magic and-"

With a grunt, he pulled out a small handheld device that had two analogue buttons as well as two small buttons. Putting it close to Tails, he pushed the left stick up three times, down three times, left three, and then right three. Once done he then pressed a small button and waited.

Chuck gasped, "You are telling the truth. Your dimensional chronological energy is mixing with this Tails Quantum frame, allowing you to both exist in his body without displacing his, while allowing for a temporal displacement of his mental status in another dimensional place."

Sonic was now brain dead.

"We switched minds." Tails nodded

"Oh!" Sonic said, before looking between the two.

"What is it Sonny?" asked Chuck.

"Just making sure that you didn't have any flings with a fox before any of this,"Sonic said, wich brought out some laughter from the robian.

"Oh, I have had my many flings: An Owl, some echindas, a rabbit, At least one lemur, and I don;'t know what else. You think you got your suaveness from your father? Jules was the shy one, I was the one who had the ladies back in my youth," Chuck said, before smirking t Tails, "Remember, the brains bring in the girls."

"Sadly," Tails sighed, thinking of the girls who have been after him, "I know."

"But I am pretty sure I never dated a fox," Chuck said, before pausing for a long minute.

"While Unc is thinking of DNA tests, what are you supposed to do here?" asked Sonic.

"I don't know." Tails sighed,"My Nicole usually tells me, but she hasn't gotten a message yet. I do at least want to help stop Starline. He's... well, a major Robotnik fanboy."

Sonic blinked, "Why?"

"Don't ask, I don't know..." Tails sighed.

As the conversation went with the three, Nicole sat in the background, typing on the palm pilot, "Come on, why haven't I gotten anything yet?"

"Right now, Starline's probably trying to get in with Robotnik."

Sonic smirked, "Well then, guess the fun thing to do is to slip in, and listen to what beaky has to say." he said, getting revved up.

Tails grabbed onto him,"Yep!"

"You two be care-" Chuck sighed as the gust of wind blew past him, "Be careful."

Sonic and Tails slunk carefully through the air vents, trying to find Robotnik's conference room.

They began hearing some voices,"You see, o great Robotnik, I have so many ideas that could help you in your conquest of the Freedom Fighters."

"There we go," Sonic whispered to Tails as he sat under one of the vents.

Robotnik looked at the platypus and smiled, "Do go on, Dr. Starline."

Starline smiled as he brought out some blueprints,"Why don't you fight fire with fire? Take this for instance. This is a machine that's certain to surpass that meddlesome hedgehog."

"And how can you be so sure that this 'thing' can handle the hedgehog?" Snively asked.

Robotnik could only smile,"I see, this is truely magnificent. And you say that this worked on other worlds?"

"Oh yes, it did!" Starline grinned,"I also have another suggestion. You know that there's a big space station that's currently unmanned up there, right?"

"I have heard of it," Robotnik said, a sneer on his lips, "You mean it is still operational?"

"Oh, yes." Starline smiled,"And I can help take you up there... and maybe make it your own."

Tails gasped,"The ARK."

"the what?" asked Sonic.

"The ARK, a space station with the power to blow the moon in half." Tails explained.

Sonic's eyes widened, "There's something that powerful out there?"

"And I trust that you know of how to access it's power?" asked Robotnik.

"Oh, of course!" Starline said with a smile,"But we should be careful. I think there's an intruder here."

A small sneer came across Robotnik's lips as he looked over to Snively, "Snivley, it's about time we cleaned the vents."

"Oh yes, indeed sire. Activating the cleaners," Snively said, pressing a small red button on the console.

Sonic's eyes opened wide as he could feel the static begin to prick his quills, "Ok, that's our time to juice. Let's go Tails!" he said, grabbing Tails' hand and racing through the vents.

"You see, Snively," Robotnik said, listening to the sounds of electricity pour through the vents, small items disintegrating as they were touched, "Starline knows how to keep things secure, and our meetings private, if need be."

"Didn't seem to catch on too quick if you ask me," Snively muttered under his breath, "The hedgehog or the squirrel probably heard everything."

"And if it was the princess or that insufferable rodent, then all the better," Robotnik said, walking over to look at the plans, "After all, we need to let the freedom fighters to know that our latest plans are already in motion. There will be little they can do to stop us, correct Starline?"

"Correct, 'O mighty Robotnik." Starline bowed.

"Brown-nosing duck," Snively said.

"Useless ape," Starline said in return.

Snively growled, "Waste of feathers."

"Balding idiot."

"Duck-billed twi-"

"If you two would stop the high-school flirting for a moment, we need to begin the discussion on making this new bot," Robotnik looked down, "The only problem would be-"

"The use of all of Sonic's data?" Starline asked, before pulling out a disc, "This disc contains not only the data of various Sonics from across the multiverse that I have been traveling, but a Sonic that I have had the opportunity to work with."

"Another rodent, willing to work with you?" Snively asked dismissively.

"At any other time, I know it seems suspicious; however this hedgehog is unique in that he is evil. An Anti-Sonic as it were. What's more, this hedgehog is very close to being on the same level as this Sonic. I think our master would agree that would be most advantageous." Starline said, looking back at Robotnik as he held the disc in his metal fingers.

Robotnik's red eyes looked over the disc and nodded, "He's right Snively. If you weren't too stupid to think for a moment, then you would remember that for every good there is a bad. A negative to a positive. So, it would make sense for a Sonic to provide just what I need."

"I am glad to be of service, my lord," Starline bowed.

"Maybe you should learn from him, Snively. Then you wouldn't be a disappointment," Robotnik said, walking away to begin his work.

Snively looked at Starline, and glared his blue eyes at the platypus in front of him. Slowly, he clenched his fingers into his hand, digging them deep enough to draw blood as he began to grumble to himself. He almost missed hearing Robotnik's order as he began to plan his new rival's death, "Yes sire. So, please Starline, how are we getting into space and reaching the Ark."

"So, what's the likely-hood Robotnik could even make it to that station," Sonic asked as he left the edge of Robotropolis.

"With Starline? Probably very likely and he could be able to do it within a week." Tails said.

"So plenty of time to stop him then," Sonic said, "And here I thought this was going to be a boring day!"

Tails giggled.

A black shadow followed them.

"Why do I get to do this?" Antonie asked, "I know I am formidable and skilled, but I am also ze coward. I'll run when I see ze Swatbots approaching."

"And that's why you are the best looking Ant," Sonic said, tapping his shoulder, laughing as he caused the coyote to jump out of his fur, "Because if you see anything you scream the loudest."

As Sonic sped off into the woods, Antoine raised his fist in anger, "You miserable no good fuel! I swear I will see you hanged for this!"

The shadow tapped him on the shoulder.

Antoine chuckled, "Oh, fuel me once, shame on you. Fuel me twice, shame on me. I am not so easily fueled like some egotistical monkey. I am ready for you Sonique!" he turned around...

And screamed.

Tails flew over to Rotor's,"Do we have a plane or something," he muttered to himself.

Rotor came running to Tails, "Tails, I need you to look at this!"

"What!?" Tails asked.

Rotor smiled as he took Tails' hand and led him a few miles down the woods. The smile on his face showed that he was happy to have a new partner in crime when it came to mechanics. After a few yards, he took Tails to a small clearing with a small cave, "I was scavenging for some wood and other supplies for a bit when I found this." He turned on a flashlight from his pocket to reveal a red plane with a bent wing and cracked body.

"I think some old mobians may have done some flight over the forest and crashed in here," Rotor said.

Tails let out a squee,"Let's fix it up!"

The shadow gently knocked on the door to Bunnie's home.

Bunnie looked up from doing her one-armed push-up, "Come in, the door's open." she said, standing up to her feet and getting a water bottle.

A bat woman opened the door, carrying an unconscious Antoine,"Is this yours?" She said with a smile.

"Sugartwain," Bunnie said, walking over to the fallen Coyote, "Did you do this or did he-"

"Fainted." The bat giggled,"Maybe you should pick a less... high-strung lookout?"

Bunnie walked over to pick up Antoine and carry him to her couch, "Oh, non," she heard him mumble, "Run away, killer vampire attack."

"It's just a normal bat," Bunnie said, smiling as she laid him down.

Still unconscious, Antoine let out a few more incoherent mutterings, "must, warn Bunnie, and ze princess."

Bunnie chuckled when he said her name and smiled warmly. Then she kissed his cheek, "Don't worry sugah, got the message." Turning around, she looked at the bat, "So, got a name? Or is he right that you are here to bathe in virgin blood?"

"Oh please, blood gets too sticky in my fur." the bat joked,"Rouge."

Bunnie blinked, "How do you-" she shook her head before taking a seat, "Never mind. So, why are you here, other than scare coyotes?"

"Oh, let's just say Robotnik did a very bad thing to me." Rouge pouted,"HE made me lose an important... artifact."

"And you are looking to get it back with our help?"

"Maybe. Or maybe helping you will help me. I don't take kindly to jerks who stop my hei- er, procurements."

That made Bunnie cross her arms and glare a little, "You know, you can be honest. We're itching to make Buttnik pay a little. What did you steal an emerald or somethin?"

Rouge chuckled a little,"You're perceptive. I admit, I stole an emerald and I happened to be flying back when one of those swatbots managed to shoot me down, causing me to drop it."

"You ain't hurt too bad from that are ya?" asked Bunnie.

Rouge rubbed her shoulder,"I'm tougher than I look." she said with a wink

Bunnie couldn't help but laugh at that, after all she was tough herself for being a bunny. Getting up, she rubbed Rouge's shoulder with her flesh hand and said, "All right, I'll see about helping you out. You can rest here for the night and we can get it back tomorrow. I'd love to star messing with anything Robotnik has planned."

Rogue smiled at her,"Thank you." she turned and exited the house.

Bunnie waited for Rouge to leave before saying to the coyote, "She's gone."

"Ah, Bon," Antoine said, getting up, " It was a good thing that bat decided to vacate ze not, zen I would've cut her open with my blade!" he then slipped from the couch and landed on his back.

"Yeah, sure," Bunnie said with a small roll of her eyes and a gentle laugh.

Antoine slowly got back up to his feet and dusted himself off. Then he turned his blue eyes to Bunnie, "Um, Bunnie. Not to question you or your feelings. But why are you trusting her? She could be a spy for Robotneek or is planning on stealing something from Knothole for herself."

"Eh," Bunnie shrugged. "I figured if she was a spy, she would've killed ya right off." this made Antoine shiver, " But she chose to bring ya in, which tells me a lot. Besides, my uncle always told me that a Bat makes for a good thief and a good friend. They ain't the kind to backstab ya."

"I see," Antoine said, "Zat, and you have a good trusting heart."

"Why thank ya," Bunnie said with a smile. "Look, your shift is over and it's late. Why not sleep on the couch for a bit."

"Moi?! Sleep in an unwed woman's house?" Antone said with a look of shock. "I would never dishonor a woman's honor by doing such a thing. I will brave the outside, in the dark, alone... to my home before I do such a thing."

"Ant, it's no big-"

Antoine interrupted with a kiss on her hand, "I thank you for your hospitality, mon cherie. However, I fear I must take my leave before ze people talk."

As he left her and walked out the door, Bunnie sighed and shook her head, "Swear, you think he was back in the olden days or something with the way he was carrying on."

She walked over to her room, and her metal arm hit a photo with a small clink. Looking down, she saw a photo of her and the others when they were kids. She smiled warmly as a memory came to her mind.

"I'm hideous now" Bunnie said, crouching to her knees as she held her metal arm. "Just a metal freak. Sonic should've just left me in that robotoicizer!" she cried and sniffed. Only a small sound of a cracking branch took her out of her funk. When she looked, she came face to face with a flower.

"Look, Mademoiselle Bunnie. Sonique found this and some other flowers in the city and was able to save them. Of course, the fuel didn't seem to want to give them to ze princess, but I knew that such beauty needs to be shared with a friend."

Bunnie took the flower in her flesh hand and looked at the coyote, "Thank you. But why-"

"To remind you, zat sometimes a rare beauty can grow in the harshest of times," Antoine said, helping her up and wiping a tear, "I cannot zay I fully understand, but if you need, how you say, a shoulder. I am there. Just remember, you are one of the strongest females I know. You will get through this." and with that, he kissed her hand.

"Such a coward, but a sweetie still the same," Bunnie said with a smile before putting the picture back and walking back to her room and shower.

Outside, Rouge was stopped by a chipmunk handing her a plate of cookies, "Eh, no newcomer gets past Rosie without getting some treats from her kitchen."

Rouge stared at the cookies, before taking one,"This..." she ate it,"is really good... scarily good..."

"Of course it is dearie," Rosie said with a warm smile and patting Rouge's shoulder, "Its made with all of the right ingredients. Now, take this little compress for your shoulder, don't want to get an infection with that burn mark."

Rouge looked at her,"Uh, thanks..." This woman's like a grandmother! I can't pull away!

Tails wiped his brow with one of his tails,"Well, we're almost done. I probably should get home before Aunt Sally finds out I'm out too late."

"Yeah, and we know how she gets when she's worried," Rotor laughed as he handed Tails a bottle of water. "We might have this done by tomorrow."

Tails drank it,"Yeah."

"Hey, Tails? Thanks."

Tails smiled at him,"No problem."

"I do love it when I have a friend. It can get lonely for people like us."

"I, uh, I know.." Tails whispered.

"Come on, let's head home," Rotor said.

Sally looked out at the moonlight sky, lightly playing on Nicole. Occasionally she would look back down at her palm pilot and let out a sigh before switching to another screen. Taking a few more looks at the screen yielded nothing, "Starfield reveals nothing, Sally."

"I know Nicole. I know," Sally said, looking back up at the moon, "But where could they hide a space station that big and powerful."

"I am sorry Sally, but all known records of the Ark were wiped out," Nicole said, a bit of tiredness in her voice. "Perhaps you need a rest before continuing."

Sally frowned, and nodded, "Playback file 101 of the nighttime story selection."

"Yes, Sally," Nicole said, loading up feedback while playing a little holovid of a little Lynx and squirrel playing together.

Sally was only taken out of her concentration by a rush of air and the landing of two feet, "You know, you keep looking at Nicole like that, you'll go blind." Sonic teased, leaning against the wall of the hut.

Unknown to the two animals, Nicole watched and smiled a little at this, "It's been too long since this happened. Sally and I would have our long talks over everything. Then Sonic would come over to talk or to brag."

"I'm trying to find the Ark," Sally said, "Robotnik has his hands on a powerful weapon and we need to take it out."

"And we will," Sonic said, "We got the smartest princess and the fastest hero on Mobius. Robotnik ain't got jack."

"Well, I think he has a bigger ego in comparison to your modesty," Sally said, rolling her eyes and crossing her arms.

Nicole sat on the bed, watching this as she let out a giggle, "The two would tease each other over anything."

"Look, Buttnik is going to take FOREVER to get something up there," Sonic said, looking back up at the full moon. "We got time. What you don't got time for is to be dozing off during something important."

"You and Nicole, I swear," Sally muttered under her breath before turning to look, "Fine, I'll head to bed and figure something out in the morning. Maybe I can triangulate something or-"

"Whoa, too much genius talk Sal," Sonic said, kissing Sally on the cheek, "I'm juicing, and you get to bed."

"Will do, Sonic," Sally said, returning the kiss with a smile before walking to bed.

"And then they'll share their goodbyes before me and Sally continue our girl talk," Nicole said, lying on the bed next to Sally as she began to read. "I see why Tails misses it."

The palm pilot Nicole began to fizzle out a bit before the screen turned blue.

Sally's eyes opened wide in horror, "Nicole? NICOLE?!"

"Yes?" 'Nicole' said,"Sorry, I appeared to have had a little glitch."

"Oh," Sally said with a sigh, rubbing the side of the palm pilot of Nicole as if it was her sister, "I'm glad. You had me worried for a moment there. Maybe you should turn off for the night."

"Of course, Sally." Nicole said. She dimmed her light,"Sleep well."

"Good night, Little Nicci," Sally yawned and went to bed by the light of her palm pilot.

"... I see you." Rogue Nicole whispered.

Tails stared at the ceiling, thinking.

"Thoughts, Tails?" asked Nicole.

"Starline is shaking things up worse than I thought. Sonic here isn't as experienced as mine, so who knows how he could handle these."

Nicole wanted to tell Tails about the Rouge Nicole, but held back. Instead, she sat with him and looked down, "He'll be fine. The similarities to our Sonic are close enough that he should be fine."

"I guess you're right.." Tails sighed,"I'm just worried, that's all."

"It'll be alright," Nicole said, smiling, "You know nothing can really match Sonic."

Tails nodded,"Yep!"

"And then there's you," Nicole said.

"I'm, well, that's debatable. My body's too small to do anything right now..."

"You have something more important than a small body.

"Well, I do have the ability to fly for about... 3 minutes..."

"I wasn't talking about flight."

Tails smiled,"I get it... it's my cute looks."

Nicole giggled, "You are adorable, but what else?"

"I know I know, my brain."

"And that is the one thing you have that hasn't been lost through all of your jumps so far," Nicole said, smiling down at him. "Right now, you need to get some sleep. Myself of this world got Sally to sleep, and you should too." she finished, before beginning to sing a soft lullaby to the young fox.

Tails' eyes began to droop as he fell asleep.

Nicole smiled as Tails began to fall asleep. Pulling out Z she began to type away, "Come on, what is his purpose here?"

"Stop the machine."

Nicole blinked and lowered her head, "Oh, sure. Give us the easy job of taking out the Death Egg."

As the sun rose, so did a huge black shadow.

"Ah what a wondefuel day," Antoine said, stepping out for a moment. Looking up he smiled, "Blue sky, wonderful sun, and an elcipse."

"Hmmm, odd," said a skunk, "There's no eclipse today."

"Oh, merde." Antoine squeaked.

Tails looked up,"Oh, no..."

"Tails," Sonic asked, "What is that?"

"... That's the Death Egg..."

Sonic blinked, "A little on the nose, ain't it?"

Tails looked at him,"It's Robotnik."

"True, his ego is so big I'm surprised he doesn't wear a monogrammed bathrobe," Sonic said.

"He also put a mustache on that thing."

"How am I not surprised," Sonic said, "What can that thing do?"

"Well, in my world, that thing could roboticize things on a massive scale."

"Oh joy," Sonic said with a roll of the eyes.

Sally stepped in behind them, "Then the question is, how do we stop it?"

"Well, we could fly up to it."

""Good plan, but how?"

Tails smiled,"I have something."

"When did you and Rotor find this awesome thing!" Sonic asked.

"A little while ago."Tails smiled.

"It got a name?" Sonic asked.

"The Tornado."

Rotor chuckled as Sonic ran to the top of the plane, "I wanted to call it the sky patrol, but Tails looked really happy about the Tornado.

Tails smiled,"Tornado just sounds cool!"

Sonic gave Tails a fist bump, "And who is flying it?" asked Sally.

Tails looked sheepishly,"I was thinking of flying it..."

Sally and Rotor let out a combined what, while Sonic gave a thumbs up.

"I mean, I can try!" Tails said.

"You are expecting me to let a ten-year-old fly a plane?" Sally asked, tapping her foot.

Tails began to kick the ground,"Well, I helped fix it..."

"That is not the point," Sally said, looking back up at the plane, "You are-"

"Aw, come on Sal," Sonic said, leaning over the wing of the plane, "You and I both know Tails has the skills to pilot something like this. He can pull it off easily."

Sally looked down as Sonic said this, before looking back up at him, "How can you be so sure."

"I just know, trust me. And besides, how hard can it be to fly a plane? I bet I could do it!" Sonic bragged much to Sally's annoyance. He then sat back and added, "And don't try to say anything about his age. We both kind of had to grow up early and you know that."

"It's not that, it's," Sally paused, the countless things that could go wrong ran through her head. Sighing, she said, "Just promise me you two will TRY and be careful?"

"He'll try," Sonic snarked as he looked down at her with a wink.

"I'll see what we can do down here, you just try and stop it however you can," Sally said.

Tails smiled as he looked at her,"Will do Aunt Sally!" He revved up the Tornado and flew out.

Bunnie looked at Rouge as she hung upside down, "Yo, girl, wake up. We got a meetin to get to."

Rouge covered herself with her wings,"Five more minutes, sweetie..."

Bunnie rose up on her extended legs and tapped Rouge's shoulder, "Come on."

Rouge muttered,"Bats are nocturnal... "

"And bunnies usually live in burrows and have multiple litters," Bunnie snarked, "HAte to say it, sugah, but I'm an only child and have only one uncle and one aunt."

"Fine." Rouge unfurled her wings and flew down.

Bunnie couldn't help but smirk as she led Rouge towards the war hut. As they walked in, they could hear a fint squeak of terror, "IT's fine Sugah, Rouge is on our side remember."

"Oui, but she is still-," he trailed off as he looked back at te bat.

Rouge smiled,"Don't worry, I don't bite that much."

Antonie blinked and shuddered.

Rouge giggled as she walked away.

Sally looked up as she watched the others fill in, "And this is?"

"Rouge," Bunnie said, " Robotnik stole something from her and she needs help to get it back."

Rouge waved,"Hello."

Sally nodded, "Welcome to the group, we'll need the help. Do you know anything about sneaking into guarded places?"

"Do I?" Rouge grinned.

"How much," Sally said, noticing the look.

"Let's just say I've taken a few things from his vaults before."

"Good," Sally said, "Because we'll need it."

"What do you need me to do?" Rouge cocked her head with a smile.

"Get Bunnie and Antoine into the records room and see what you can find to disable as much of the death Egg as you can and any other secrets Robotnik is hiding." Sally said, "This should give me a distraction to help Sonic and Tails from the computer rooms."

"That's all? This'll be easy."

"Zat's usually when the problems start," Antoine said nervously.

Rouge winked at him,"If anything goes wrong, you can always go into someone's arms."

Antoine looked to Bunnie and blushed. Then he turned to look at Rouge, "Ha! I am PRench! We do not run and hide and surrender!"

"And I'm a bat, so I don't drink blood... maybe," Rouge said.

The next few minutes involved carrying a frozen Antoine out of the hut.

Rouge snickered as she followed.

"It's all right Bunnie," Antoine said, "I know that most of the robots are missing, but Robotneek could still have guards waiting."

"Sugah," Bunnie said, "I'm not the one shaking right now."

Rouge grinned a little,"Exactly, it's the defense system you have to worry about."

"Defense system?" asked Bunnie.

"Yes, he probably set up some nasty turrets," Rouge kicked a circuit board,"Had some turrets anyway."

Bunnie calmly punched a wall and ripped out some circuits, "And there go the missiles."

"Um, mon cherres, could we not possibly having this-"

Another kick and punch

"How you say, size comparisons contest?"

"Don't worry, Mr. Coyote, We're just having a little fun...: She puffed her chest out."

"Yeah," Bunnie said, puffing her chest out, flaunting with a wink "Just a little fun."

They strutted down the halls.

Antoine blushed as he tried to remain gentlemanly, but it was so...hard.

There was a voice on the intercom,"Oh, look at that, intruders."

"Oh and you are?" asked Bunnie.

"I am Dr. Starline, Robotnik's best servant."

Bunnie looked up, "Bit of an ego on ya?"

"And proud of it!"

"Good," Bunnie replied

"Anyway, I've decided to stick around down here to keep you guys busy."

"Bring it," Bunnie said.

"Very well. I don't have many SWATbots, but I do have something... namely a hedgehog and a fox."

"Oh non, not Sonic and Tails!" gasped Antoine, "How did you capture them!"

"You're right, it's not Sonic and Tails..." Starline laughed

"Then who?"

A red fox woman in black appeared in the hallway in front of them,"Us." A green blur went passed them.

Bunnie gasped and pulled Antoine away from the speedster. The green hedgehog pulled down his shades, "Aw, shame...I missed the ass."

"Meet Scourge and Fiona. You two, would you kindly get rid of the intruders?" Starline asked.

"With pleasure," Scourge said, cracking his knuckles. "I've been hoping for a kill in a least one of these universes/'

Rouge cocked her head,"Oh, what's your track record?"

Scourge lifted up some red sneakers, "Several across the multiverse."

Antoine screamed, and Bunnie looked, "Wait, Sonic wears boots, not sneakers!"

"WHAT?!" Scourge said, "Uh...no we don't!"

"Those aren't even real, are they?" Rouge asked.

Fiona screamed,"They so are!"

"You robbed a sneaker store for those didn't ya?"

Scourge looked away,"No..."

Rouge then looked at the sneakers,"Next time you go robbing, don't forget to remove the tag."

Scourge looked at te sneaks for the tag.

There was indeed a tag.,

"How did you..."

Rouge kissed her fingernails,"I'm just good like that." She winked.

"THAT'S IT! I'M KILLING THE GIRLS! Fiona, you can get the coyote.. And make it slow!"

Fiona smiled,"Come here, little Frenchman."

"Mon cherie, I should let you know, I am a gentleman," Antoine said, "And I will not hurt a lady directly.

"Too bad!" Fiona kicked at him.

Antoine gave a yelp and moved to the side, letting her kick a wall.

Fiona looked his way,"Why are you here, anyway?"

Antoine brought his sword, "To protect my princess and my lady."

"But look at you, your knees are shaking."

"Q-qui, and" asked Antoine

"You're scared... too scared."

"Too scared?"

Fiona walked forward,"Too scared to fight, too scared to help people, too scared to protect."

"Antoine looked down,"you are right."

"So give up." She tucked his chin,"You're nothing."

"M... maybe I should," Antoine whimpered.

"Then quit."

Antoine watched over her shoulder, watching as Scourge did his best to keep up with Bunnie and Rouge. Narrowing his eyes, he whispered, "I can't."

"You can't?"

"Non," Antoine said, before hitting her in the chin with the back of his blade. "For one reason."

Fiona stepped back,"Gah!"

Antoine brandished his blade, "Because...I cannot disappoint her!"

"Ooh, still a little fight in you," Fiona said.

"Qui," Antoine said, "I...try."

Fiona responded by punching him.

Antoine ducked and slashed at her stomach.

Fiona dodged,"Oh, you're getting faster!" She kicked at him.

Antoine panted, "A knight can do many a thing while he is on edge"

Fiona punched at him,"Why!? Who is it that's making you fight so well!?"

Antoine winced at the pain in his shoulder and went for a slash, "Because..." he looked over Fiona's shoulder as Bunnie and Rouge went in fr a double kick, "She can."

Fiona blinked,"Her!?"

"A good partner can make a person do many a special thing," Antoine said.

"A... good partner..." Fiona muttered.

Antoine nodded and slashed at her twice.

Fiona gasped as one of the strikes hit her arm. She slid down for a kick at his legs.

Antoine took a step back and performed a thrust.

Fiona gasped as the blade stabbed her shoulder,"He's getting better...

"Your partner is losing."

Fiona looked at Scourge.

Scourge was whimpering and holding up a sign that said, "HEEEEEEELP!"

Fiona sighed and pulled out a platinum ring,"Come on, let's get out of here!"

"Just tell them to not kick me," Scourge said in his little ball mode.

Fiona was about to pick him up, when Rouge kicked him,"Well..."

"Owwww..." moaned Scourge.

Fiona picked him up and walked out towards the platinum ring, a frown on her face.

"You ok?" asked Scourge.

"Fine, just fine."

Starline frowned,"So you three took down my servants. Well done. Shame that's not all I have up my sleeve."

Sally stayed hidden, "What else does he have?"

The room Sally was in suddenly closed off.

Sally gasped and began to look around.

"There. You're safe now." 'Nicole' said.

"Nicole?" Sally asked looking around.

"I'm sorry, but I have deceived you. Your Nicole has been captured."

"...what?!" Sally said with a mix of surprise and anger

"But don't worry! I'm not going to hurt you! I would never... hurt you!"

"You mut be from another dimension, where something happened to me."

"... Yes. To you and the other Freedom Fighters."

Sally looked down, "This isn't helping me you know

"It is protecting you."

""How?"

"I'm holding you captive to protect you from the outside."

"And my friends?"

"I'll... I'll figure something out for them!"

"By that time, they could be dead. Do you really want that for me?"

"Don't say that! I can keep them alive! Honest!"

"Oh, really, how?"

"I... I don't know, I'll do something! I'll destroy every machine here!" Sally walked around the room, "You do that, you risk the Robians. Plus I need some of these machines to help Sonic and Tails."

"But... but I need to do something..."

"You need to let me go," Sally said. "I...we can help everyone better by being together."

"You're just trying to trick me."

Sally shook her head, "I am not. When you think abuout it, we both want something simila."

"We do?"

"We want to protect something we love.

"You're right I-" She felt a shock,"Argh, Sorry, I won't falter again..."

Sally paused, "What happened?"

Nicole screamed.

Starline's voice came through,"I'm sorry, my AI is... defective right now. Maybe I should her brain entirely, but that's neither here nor there."

"You mean brainwash or wipe her personality," Sally said, frowning. "She isn't defective, she was just getting away from whatever you did to her."

"Your Highness, if I may," Starline said,"it was already broken when I found it."

"She could've been helped," Sally said.

"Now, Princess, why would I do that?"

"You wouldn't," Sally said, "Because you are a kind gentleman of refined intelligence."

Starline stopped,"... You're flattering me..."

Sally blinked, "Shouldn't I?" she said, batting her hair.

"I mean, I am great."

Sally began to walk around the room, lightly running her fingers along the wall until she found a small port. Tucking her chin, she said, "Yes, you are. Perfectly great even. You have so much done and are so stupendous. No wonder our Robotnik fancies you."

"Oh yes, I know, I'm so glad to meet a Robotnik nice enough to make me his protege!"

"So I supposed this means that Robotnik has let you in all of his secrets" Sally said, reaching down and lightly tapping Nicole for a moment.

"Oh yes. Well, not all, some of the secrets he has I helped with, it was such a treat to work with him!"

"Oh really? I imagine he must have given you everything, and while you hid everything on your own. You are just so magnificent,"Sally said with a smile.

"Of course! But I also helped him with the Metal Sonic factory and hiding the secret lifeform in the base!" Starline stopped for a moment,"... I hate you."

Sally pressed a button on Nicole, allowing the walls to lower. She then smirked, "You, really, should've checked on which Tails was here." she said before running off.

Starline responded by letting out an angered scream.

Sally sighed as she ran through the halls of the building, "This is so much easier with an AI." she said, looking at the screen and seeing the sleeping Nicole with the message.

"Out of service, Please give me a moment to reboot. zzzzzzzz."

"She's adorable though," Sally said with a giggle as she looked at the map and began to scroll through it. Looking down the halls, she began to run through, "What is this, secret project?"

Closer into the base was a single chamber. Inside the chamber was a pod.

Sally stepped up to the pod, "What on earth?" she then looked at the face in the pod.

It was a black hedgehog.

She looked closely at the face, "Sonic?" she whispered before looking at the console. "It needs a code. Now, what is it?" she asked, fumbling with the keypad for a bit.

Her Nicole's voice chimed in,"Maria."

"Maria?" asked Sally as she began to type. She then whispered, "Welcome back."

"It's good to be back," A lynx appeared on the screen with a wink.

The pod opened, causing smoke to appear around her. The hedgehog slowly got up and stood,"... Who are you?"

"Sally Acorn, and you are?" asked Sally, crossing her arms as she watched the black hedgehog step out.

"Shadow." Shadow looked at her,"Why have you freed me?"{

Sally looked at him and then said, "We need your help. An evil tyrant is about to use a space station to destroy all of Mobius."

"Why should I care?" Shadow asked,"This world's done nothing for me." He indicated the pod behind him,"It stuck me in there for..." He looked at her,"What year is this?"

"3050 MBY," Sally said.

"I was stuck in there for fifty years," Shadow said with a frown.

"I'm sorry," Sally said, looking down. She then turned to look at him, "I don't know why you were locked in there, but this is a chance at a new life. You ca help save this world and move on."

"Do these people deserve to live?" Shadow asked,"Do these people deserve redemption?"

At this, Sally crossed her arms and gave Shadow a look that sent a shiver down his spines, "We have plenty of time to discuss philosophy and redemption theory later. Right now, the hedgehog I love and his little brother are out there risking their lives against who knows what. Now, you are going to go out there, help him, and then we can have a discussion about whatever you like and this and that. I'll even bring in a psychiatrist just for you."

Shadow stared at her in shock and a little bit of fear,"... Who are you!?"

"The princess of the entire kingdom you are standing on, the leader of a rebellion since I was eight years old, and a woman who has to keep an eye on an arrogant ego-filled hedgehog," Sally said.

Shadow closed his eyes,"You are quite persuasive. Very well, I'll help you." He sped out of the corridor

Tails flew up to the Death Egg,"This feels so familiar..."

"Done it before?" Sonic asked

"Yeah, quite a few times." Tails said.

Sonic smirked as he jumped off the tornado, "Then this will be all too familar, wont it."

"Hopefully." Tails leaped off,"I've been surprised before."

"Well, hey," Sonic said with a smile, "Then we can just take it as it comes.

Tails smiled,"You always know what to say."

Sonic grabbed onto Tails and raced down the halls of the death egg.

Tails looked around as they sped by, noticing various blue robots being made,"Oh no..." He noticed the spines and the turbo boosters in the back"Oh no..."

"And Robuttnik got bored and decided to copy me," Sonic remarked.

"Yeah, he does that." Tail muttered,"He made two copies of me where I came from."

"Two?!"

"Yeah, I think he didn't like me or something. One was a doll, the other was actually cool..."

Sonic frowned, "Well we know why he doesn't like you. You're smarter than he is."

"I know." Tails smiled at him.

"Now, since this is a factory, where would I hide the main computer "Please destroy me" console."

"It's usually in the center behind a big robotic boss monster. First we'd have to run an entire obstacle course that makes me question how the Doctor gets around." Tails said.

Sonic blinked, and then thought, "Maybe he had some random map that only he uses."

Tails pulled out a PDA,"Hmm, that would work.

"Right, I'll see if I can round up some dumb-bots that would be dumb enough to have a map," Sonic siad, racing off.

Five seconds later, he came back holding some hard drives, "Found a few!"

Tails grinned,"Great, let me take a look!"

Sonic began tapping is foot, waiting.

Tails brought up a large holographic map,"Hmm, there's a large room in the center right here..." Tails muttered,"An AI Core."

"What?" Sonic asked.

"There's an AI core nearby. I'll need to take a look at it while you're taking care of things.

Sonic nodded as he raced off, turning into a spin dash to cause some mayhem

Tails flew off.

He soon came to a large computer room, where a screen showed a chained up lynx,"Nicole!?"

the lynx looked at him,"You recognized me?"

Tails tapped on the computer,"Is this how you normally look?"

Nicole nodded,"I... was Sally's best friend. Once, a long time ago, I was organic like you."

"I was given the option to partake in an experiment by Dr. Robotnik. This experiment led to me being trapped as an AI. But I had grown powerful. Too powerful, so I used my abilities to make Robotnik forget I existed and to weaken myself. Tails, do not tell Sally-"

Tails began fiddling,"Right, godlike power, keeping you from Sally, easy to readjust."

"What."

Sonic ran by a couple of swatbots, stuck his tongue out, and ran back, causing them to shoot at the walls and each down a few other hallways, he began to set off a few traps, causing the guns to let loos their fire and only miss him by a fraction of a second. Running up the wall, he grabbed one of the guns and began to use it to shoot at it's friends.

Sonic began to grind along some of the railings, making sure the bots attention was all on him

Sonic raced by some more swatbots, letting them shoot at each other, "You know, if you had any brains this would be a challenge."

At that point, a silver metal hedgehog struck at him.

Sonic let out an off as he skidded along the ground.

The Silver Sonic got up, revving its spines.

"OH, a silver Sonic? Has anyone told ya that you look a little chubby? Maybe you should lay off the reefer," Sonic mocked before running around him in a circle before jumping off the wall into a spindash.

This knocked Silver back. It revved up its spines before doing its own spindash towards him.

"Copycat!" Sonic said, standing still while waiting for him to come at him.

It sped towards him.

Sonic dashed to the side to let him ram into the wall

Silver was lodged ito the wall. It then began to try and turn, breaking pieces off before staring down the flesh hedgehog.

Sonic smirked, "That's it, stay right..." he paused before turning into a spin dash and ramming himself again into the bot's stomach.

The bot was slammed into the wall, causing sparks to appear.

Sonic clapped his hands, "And that is that. Man, if that is Buttnik's best..."

A spark of electricity interrupted him. A larger blue Sonic robot began to rise from behind him.

Sonic blinked, "So, you model one or two? O should I just call you Mecha and hope and pray you don't become suicidal before I beat you?"

It flew at Sonic, electricity flowing through it.

Sonic ran at the bot, racing head first towards him. Then, just before impace, he slid underneath the bot and popped out on the other side. Smirking, he said, "HEy dumbot, wanna race?"

The robot's eyes shone in excitement. It sparked with electricity.

Sonic smirked, "Then let's do to it!" he said, before taking off with a mighty sonic boom, "Let's Juice!"

Mecha Sonic sped off after him.

Sonic began to run around the large base, smirking as he felt the thrill of a race burning inside of him. Looking back he said, "You know, dork, the last time Buttnik thought he had something to catch me, it was a cheetah. How lame, right?"

Mecha nodded, before trying to get closer.

Sonic ran ahead a little more, "You would think that he would try and copy me a little more, right?

Before Mecha could respond, a black ball of spines slammed into it from a hole below it.

The ball turned into a certain black hedgehog as it landed nearby,"That rabbit has a good arm."

"Who the-," Sonic asked in shock as he saw Shadow appear. Blinking, he asked, "And who are you?"

. "I am Shadow the Hedgehog." Shadow looked at him,"And I assume that you're the arrogant hedgehog the Princess mentioned?"

"Yep," Sonic said, before asking, "How did she convince you."

"..." Shadow sighed,"She has that look"

"You mean that look that makes you beg for forgiveness for any crime you have done?" Sonic asked.

"Yes." Shadow sighed.

"Great," Robotonik's voice spoke through the halls,"Two meddlesome hedgehogs."

Shadow's ear twitched,"Gerald? No, he's dead."

"No, his name is Buttnik. Kind of a jerk who likes to think he's all that but just is full of hot air," Sonic mocked.

"Laugh all you want, hedgehog, you gave me what I needed today," Robotnik said.

Sonic arched an eyebrow, "What do ya mean?"

Shadow pointed to an opening door,"Probably that."

A small blue metal hedgehog came into view,"Behold, my Hyper Metal Sonic!"

Metal's eyes glowed red,"Let's do it, to it."

"Hey, that's my line!"Sonic said, frowning.

Shadow looked at him,"You have a catchphrase?"

Metal sped forward, striking at Sonic.

"Yeah what of-OOOOF!" Sonic shouted, feeling the force of the punch sending him flying back.

Shadow responded by kicking Metal in the back of the head,"You need to keep a better eye on your surroundings."

Sonic rolled his eyes and stood back up. Dusting himself off, he said, "HE got a surprise hit on me, Dark and gloomy." he then raced off for a quick uppercut.

Metal flew up in the air from the hit before flying back, charging it's body owith a barrier.

"I'll hit him high," Shadow said, racing ahead with his jet shoes before jumping up.

Sonic nodded and then raced ahead below and went for a spindash.

The barrier blocked Shadow's hit before the barrier went down, allowing Sonic to hit him from below.

Metal shook its head before flying towards Shadow with a punch.

Shadow reached out to grab at the punch, and frowned, "Is this his best?"

Metal's eyes glowed red as it began to charge with electricity.

Sonic sped up behind Metal, reading for a spin dash into a kick.

Metal was knocked to the side and laid flat on the ground.

"That was too easy," Shadow said, frowning.

Sonic rolled his eyes, "Oh come on, he's down, and we're not."

Robotnik began to laugh,"Activate Neo Metal Program."

The remains of Mecha and Silver began to shudder and shake, before flying towards the body of Metal. Metal began to shift and change. His spines grew bigger with white steaks, his claws grew bigger, and he grew a cape somehow,"Way past cool." He said.

Shadow sighed, and crossed his arms, "It seems that his lines have not improved."

"Hey, that's my catchphrase!" Sonic said. "I don't really sound like that, right?"

"It's juice and jam time!" Neo Metal flew at both of them, arms outstretched.

"Ok, now you are just making fun of-Urrk!" Both Shadow and Sonic were grabbed by the throat by Metal and slammed against the wall. Then the robot pulled back his hands and rapidly punched them both in the stomach.

Shadow slumped to the ground,"I don't know what's worse... that he's beating us... or that you have three catchphrases."

Sonic looked back to Shadow, "Hey, catchphrases are cool. It helps to show off how awesome you are!"

Before Sonic could remark more, Metal Sonic appeared in a flash and roundhoused him in te head to send him flying to the side. Turning to look at Shadow, he uppercutted the dark hedgehog in the chin. As Shadow rose into the arir, Metal grabbed Shadow by the leg and spun him into the wall twice to leave behind a little crater.

Shadow slowly got up,"Okay..." He grabbed the rings on his wrists,"That's it..."

"Now's not the time to remove your jewelry!" Sonic said.

"I'm not removing jewelry... I'm using my trump card."

Sonic blinked and reached back for his trump card.

Sonic pulled out the Red Star Ring, Shadow removed his limiters, causing two auras to shine in the room: One red and one white-gold.

Sonic took off in a blast of a sonic boom, accompanied by a white-gold streak of light. As he neared the metal robot, he leaped into a knee upper, before turning into a back-spin kick. A sound of thunder rang out as the kick connected to Metal's stomach. Shadow teleported behind Meta and slammed an elbow into it without even looking at it.

Metal, becoming shocked at the two's increased speed and power, tried to spin around in a horizontal kick. Shadow blocked the strike with a cross block. Using the break in the attack to his advantage, Shadow struck with a heel-palm strike. He then teleported above the robot and delivered a three-punch combo, followed by an ax-kick.

As the robot was sent careening to the ground with a large crash, he managed to hold himself up with a single and on the ground. Looking up, he caught sight of Sonic rushing in a bolt of lightning and striking with a whirlwind kick. After breaking out of the move, he snapped kicked the robot into the chin. He then struck the robot with a hard sidekick, unleashing a clash of thunder.

The robot flew through the air thanks to the strike, ad was unable to stop Sonic as he ran ahead in a flash of light. Stopping in front of Metal, Sonic began to spin dash into the robot's body, sending it flying into the air. Shadow caught to the metal in the sky and threw a chaos spear into its chest. As the robot began to spark and sizzle, Shadow slammed his fist into the fake Sonic's body and slammed it into the metal floor creating a crater from the impact. Shadow then struck hard three times into the robot. After he left, Sonic raced in and spun into the robot's body before leaping up, creating five small balls of light, and then slamming them into Metal's body.

As it began to explode, Sonic and Shadow high fived each other.

They could almost hear Robotnik's teeth gnashing.

A computerized voice began to speak,"Self-Destruct sequence has been initiated."

"..." Sonic paused, "Did you press the switch, or did Tails?"

Tails came flying in,"IfixedNicoleandsettheself-destructsequencetimetogonow-" He looked at Shadow,"Hi Shadow."

Shadow blinked, "Do I know you?"

"No, and maybe in a few minutes, you won't have to worry about it!" Tails grabbed onto Sonic's hand.

Sonic nodded and raced out, "Come on, let's juice!"

"Again with the catchphraaaaaaaaaaaaaaassssseeeee!" Shadow shouted

The three sped out of the exploding Death Egg.

Robotnik snarled,"I hate that fox. I hate that chipmunk. AND I HATE HEDGEHOGS!"

Snivel began to back away slowly, letting Robotnik rant. He knew that his uncle was going to take out his rage on the next living person.

Sonic reached out as the death egg exploded and leaped onto the Tornado as it flew out.

Tails landed the tornado and two subsequent hedgehogs back on land where the rest of the Freedom Fighters awaited. He stepped out onto the grass, smiling as he was about to see the happy reunion, before his body began to glow,"Oh come on-"

"-just a little longer!?" Tails then instinctively dodged a robot arm striking at him,"Oh boy!"

Chapter 10: IDW

Chapter Text

Tails looked at all of the robots staring him down. He dodged and weaved through them, before using his tails to cut through one,"Okay, tails are back to normal, that's good!" He ducked under one before spindashing under it,"And I got my spindash back!" He got up with a smile. Then a sniper shot through the robot behind him. He turned with a wide-eyed stare,"Whoa."

A long grey and white tail sped through the air and smashed two of the bots. That was when a tomboyish voice shouted out "And that's two!" A wolf smiled at her lemur friend through her mask, and silently nodded, "But, it's not a game." she whispered sweetly. "Yeah, but it's still fun!" the lemur said, before looking down, "TAILS! Hey there bud! Why are you here?"

Tails looked at her,"I'll explain later." He dodged another bot,"But things aren't normal right now!"

"I'll say," the lemur, Tangle smirked as swung down to the battlefield on her tail, "Eggman's bots are really being frisky today."

Oh, so we're going with Eggman today, alright,"I wonder why?" He noticed one of them going after a squirrel,"Oh no!" He flew over to grab her.

Two more shots rang out, taking out some more of eggman drones while Tangle began to smash with her tail. The female squirrel said to Tails, "Thank you."

Tails blinked,"Sally?"

"Yes, Ace Reporter Sally Acorn... but wait, you watch my show?" The squirrel asked.

"Um...yeah, big fan!" Tails said before stepping away.

"That's so wonderful!" Sally said,"Oh if only I had my cameraman..."

"Um, Tails, fanboy later?" Tangle said smashing another Eggman bot.

"Right." He smashed another robot.

Behind Whisper, a red fox snuck up behind her.

Whisper put her hand near her wispon, her breathing slow. Slowly she looked over her shoulder.

Fiona punched at her.

Whisper rolled out of the way, the punch missing by an inch. She pulled out a small gun and shot at her.

Fiona ran to the side,"Oh, you wouldn't be so good if you didn't have that gun on you!"

Whisper glared at her, narrowing her wolf eyes at the fox.

Fiona beckoned towards her," Come on, wolfy."

"That's our word!" Whisper said under her breath and then ran to kick at Fiona.

Fiona fell on her tail,"Ow, ok so you don't need your little pea shooter!" She kicked at Whisper.

Whisper let out a squeak as the kick hit her in the gut.

"But you're still not good enough for me!" At that point, a tail whacked her in the head,"Ow!"

"Mind telling me who you are and why you are messing with m'girl?" asked Tangle, and then winking at Whisper. "Should warn you, we have a sheep who has two weapons of mass destruction of her own if you keep this up."

Fiona blinked,"What, two WMDS? What you have a sheep with really big guns?"

A sheep, carrying two big bazookas on her shoulders, "No, a pair of Bazookas!" she said, shooting out at the fox.

As Fiona dodged, she got an uppercut by Tangle's tail, "Nice shooting Lanolin!"

"Oh thank you," Lanolin smiled.

"Wait, who are you?"

Tails then said from behind them,"Fiona Fox, I'd rather explain more when Sonic himself gets here."

A gust of wind was heard as several egg bots went boom. Sonic then ran back to Tails, crossing his arms and smirking, "And time!"

"Hi Sonic!" Tails said,"So, uh, I have something I need to explain."

"What is it?" Sonic asked his little brother.

Tails explained his situation.

"Ok," Sonic said before shaking his head, "If I had a nickel for every multidimensional adventure...So, got any idea what you need to do here yet?"

"No, my AI usually tells me a few minutes after I arrive." Tails said with a frown.

.Tangle sat on her tail, "And she hasn't shown up yet?"

"Maybe she's taking a few minutes," Sonic said.

Scourge played with a ring, noticing a few pictures next to Dr. Starline, "So Doc, how does it feel to be home?"

Starline grinned,"Perfect." He looked up,"Scourge, go back through the universes we've been through now and gather their respective emeralds."

"You want me to replay? Let me guess, now that Tails is gone, those emeralds are ripe for the taking?" asked Scourge.

"Exactly. It's a plan I heard from one of the Robotniks we met. The sillier one."

"You mean that idiot had a good idea?" asked Scourge.

"Yes actually," Starline said.

Scourge smirked and walked out, only to pause to look at a photo of a green tenrec, "Who, who's the babe with the quills. She is fine!"

Starline snarled,"Forget about her. She's... a failure."

"Right, a total failure," Scourge said, smirking, "Total cutie though. See ya in a bit!"

Scourge ran by Fiona, "Hope you had fun babe."

Fiona frowned,"Yeah..." She moved forward.

Tails rummaged through some of the destroyed bots,"They went after that reporter... do you know if these guys went after a coyote, walrus and a bunny?"

"Not that I noticed," Sonic said, walking around. "But give me a sec." he dashed off.

"Why are they important?" asked Lanolin.

"Because that reporter squirrel is a princess where I come from,"Tails said,"My group is called the Freedom Fighters."

"Freedom fighters?" asked Tangle.

Sonic raced back, "Well, the only bunny that was attacked was Cream and Vannilaa, but that was it."

"Okay..." Tails said,"You see Eggman took over my world for a little while so we all had to fight him as resistance fighters."

Oh, that sounds familiar," Tangle said, balancing on her tail.

Sonic chuckled, "Yeah, caught for a year, Eggman captured me and then tried to mess with my head.

Tails blinked,"Er, well, in my world, Eggman started this when we were kids."

"You mean," Sonic paused, and blinked, "Eggman...he did that? I knew he could be a total monster but I didn't think a world existed where he was that jerkish."

"Jerkish is an understatement." Tails muttered.

Sonic then looked at Tails, "So you think he might attack them?"

Nicole appeared behind Tails, "That might be the only int. All Z is saying is, Finish the fight."

Tails yelped,"Warn me!"

"I'm sorry, but I had to find you,"Nicole said.

"Right. So, finish the fight... what does that mean!? Go find Eggman, punch him in the face?"

"I'm not sure," Nicole said, "But, I know you would probably want to."

"Of course I do!" He looked at the others,"I probably look insane right now..."

"Tails, please tell me you haven't lost it," Sonic said

"No, I'm just talking to my AI buddy only I can see and hear."

Sonic could only shrug and say, "And yet, that makes sense to me.

Tails began rummaging through a robot,"Hmm, it's still sending a signal somewhere.

"Where too?"

"Somewhere in the middle of a place known as Royal Hills Zone?" Tails asked.

"Well then, let's check it out!" Sonic said, grabbing Tails by the hand and rushing off.

They went through the woods until they reached a large metal wall.

Sonic skidded to a halt in front of the metal wall, "Electrified?"

Tails looked at it, and pulled out the Miles Electric,"Hmm, I don't see any electric fields on that."

"Good," Sonic said, smirking as he began to run up the wall.

At the top of the wall, Sonic would notice several buildings and multiple animals milling about and mingling. In the center was a large castle built above a red spaceship."

Sonic blinked and sat on top of the wall, he looked at the animals milling about below, "Ok, what's going on?"

Tails flew up next to him. He stared blankly at the town,"... Mobotropolis?"

Sonic blinked and then looked back, "I'm just curious as to what that red spaceship is all about. Wanna check it out?"

"Sure..." Tails flew down, noticing off to the side 'Uncle Chuck's'.

Sonic landed next to Tails, and then looked to the side, "Huh, wonder what's over there.

"Chili Dogs?" Tails pulled out his Miles Electric,"Hmm, they're all holograms..."

Sonic paused and put his hand through one of the plates, "False advertising!"

"I know, I sure could go for one of Uncle Chuck's Chili Dogs right now." Tails said.

Tails stopped in front of the ship, noticing a huge door that was slightly opened.

"Shall we go in?" Sonic said.

"Why not." Tails said,"It's the only way to find some answers."

As Sonic and Tails walked into base, Sonic called out, "Hello?"

At that point, an alarm sounded, causing several robots and machinery to stir.

Sonic smiled as he ran by each bot and patted their heads. He then ran up the wall and down again to pat the other line of robots.

"What was that?" Tails asked.

"Wanted to see if that would wake them up," Sonic said, walking by them, "Odd they're so quiet."

At that point, the little machines began pointing their guns at him.

"So, Once more," Sonic said, running in between the bots, letting them shoot each other.

They destroyed each other.

Down the hall to the next room was a series of whirring spikes.

Sonic jumped to grab Tail's hand and flew over the spikes.

Tails looked over,"You know, with this killer obstacle course, you'd think someone didn't want us here."

Sonic smiled with Tails, "Oh come on, bad guys love us!"

"Oh, we're the life of the party, giving out chili dogs, cracking jokes, destroying dangerous machinery..." Tails said.

Behind them, Tangle leaped onto the wall. Lanolin panted as she got up,"Freaking fast hedgehog..."

Tangle turned back, helping Whisper up with her tail and then holding her friend's hand. Smiling she turned to Lanolin, "Ah, come on. I thought you were athletic!"

"I am, but I also have limits!" Lanolin said before looking at the city,"What is this place?"

"I don't know," Whisper said, shaking her head, "I've never seen this place."

Tangle looked down at the city, "Looks like a new city but, those people look just so, lifeless."

Outside, some of the holographic animals began to stop and turn towards Lanolin.

Tangle paused, "Hey, um, Lanolin? Everyone is looking at you."

"Wha-" the sheep in question paused and looked back at the holograms, "Why are they looking at me?"

"Zombies?" whispered Whisper.

Their eyes glowed red.

"And now their eyes are glowing red," Tangle said.

Lanolin frowned, "I think they hate me."

"Intruders." The holograms said.

Sonic and Tails then came to a large area with several buzzsaws slicing through the air. Beyond it was a computer.

Sonic looked back at Tails and smirked, "So, how do you want to do this?"

Tails grabbed onto his hand,"The way we usually do this!" He began to fly around each obstacle with expert precision until he eventually stopped at the computer. He accessed it only to see...

Himself on the screen. Though he looked a bit older with a scratch on his ear. Behind him was a large metal door. This Tails began to speak,"Alright Nicole, I've got it set up."

Nicole spoke,"Tails, are you sure you want to do this?"

"It's the only way. This entity... The End, it... without Sonic we can't keep going. This is the only way for us to get a second chance... and maybe we can have better lives in the next world. I'll keep us outside the Genesis Wave so we can both remember what happened. Everyone else though..."

"No." Nicole said,"I can't let you suffer like that. I can't let everyone forget you." A capsule appeared around him.

The other Tails' eyes widened,"Nicole, what are you doing!?"

"No one will remember me, and that's okay. As long as I can help them out eventually. I'll always be watching, Tails." Nicole said as she ejected him.

"Genesis Wave... The End?" Tails muttered.

Sonic stepped and then crossed his arms, "The End? I've already played that song and Dance, she really thought she could take us on."

"The End?" Tails asked.

"Yeah, this universal entity that represented the end of all things. They were supposed to the death of the universe and all things," Sonic said, before stretching, "They had chased the ancients off of their homeworld while they brought the emeralds here. I kicked her butt, but according to my Tails, she looked different to everyone there."

"So another Tuesday. Nicole, can you note that for later, just in case?" Tails asked,"Wouldn't be the first god we contended with. Remind me to tell you about Feist, Panda-God of the Special Zone."

"The what?" Sonic asked plainly.

"Panda-god. He's a massive jerk. Putting us through so many courses."

"So he's to blame for the half pipe."

"Alone." Nicole's voice echoed through the ship, causing Tails to jump,"The wave left me alone. But it was okay at first... I could still watch you from afar. Then Eggman took over and now I was alone again. But someone came and helped me."

Tails frowned,"Starline?"

"He helped free me from my imprisonment. He showed that I could bring my friends back together. But you won't come, will you?" Nicole said,"Not while they're still breathing."

"Look, Don't know much about you, but Starline is not someone who you can trust," Sonic sia.d

Tails looked at Sonic,So this is his home...

There was a pause,"I don't know, he upgraded me, gave me another chance, and allowed me to get rid of your new friends."

"What..." Sonic asked as he looked behind hi,m ."You wouldn't."

Tails flew off,"Are you really that far gone!?"

Outside, a holographic cyborg rabbit punched at Tangle,"Come here ya little monkey!"

Tangle jumped back, and then shot out her tail, "Hey, look at the tail toots, I'm a LEMUR!"

Lanolin stepped back from a chipmunk hologram,"You would think holograms would be so dangerous!" She watched Tails fly out,"Hey, nice of you to join us!"

Tails looked around,"Nicole, stop! This isn't going to fix anything!"

Nicole's voice echoed,"I will have everything I want now. If it was only you two who arrived here, I would've let you join me in paradise."

Whisper found a rooftop to begin to fire. As she used her wispon, she also began to leave shots for Sonic to fin and attack he holograms, "We can't stay here for eternity and I don't think that's what your friends would want you to do!"

Nicole appeared behind Whisper,"What do you know!? They were my world! They were everything to me! Now I have to find a way to get them back!"

Whisper took off her mask and turned to her. She brought out a small photo and handed it to her.

"What's this?" Nicole looked at it. She saw Whisper surrounded by a group of animals: A monkey, an Octopus, an Ocelot, and a lion.

"My friends," Whisper said.

Nicole noted the sound of sadness in her voice,"D... " she looked at the Neo Diamond Cutters on the ground,"You replaced them?"

"They can't be replaced." Whisper said,"The hole they left still remains. But... the pain has been mitigated by them. This isn't what they would want. I know that for a fact."

Nicole slumped down, the city began to change into several piles of clay. All the holograms began to disappear, leaving only the ship. Nicole then curled into a ball.

Tangle bounced next to Whisper, "Hey, is she going to be ok?"

Whisper put her mask back on.

Tails flew over to her"Nicole..."

"... Reset me," Nicole whispered.

"What?" Tails asked.

"Reset. Me." Nicole looked up at him,"I can't go on like this. My mind is too fractured, too filled with memories. I already feel my sanity ebbing away again. Factory reset me so I can make new memories in this world."

Tangle blinked, "Whoa, wait, wouldn't that be...killing her?"

"Consider it a mercy." Nicole said,"I don't want to live like this. With a whole universe of memories, I can't forget. I stopped watching you 6 months ago. That's not long for an organic but for a computer, it's an eternity."

Tangle frowned, and reached out "But."

"I get it," Sonic said, looking back at her, "If is rebooted, at least she has the ability to make new memories. She wouldn't be dieing, just...reborn."

Tails was quiet. He wanted to protest as well, but then he heard Sonic,"Right." He flew off. Whisper followed close behind.

Tangle sat down next to Nicole. The lynx asked,"Why are you staying?"

"... Can... can you tell me about your friends? Before you go?" Tangle asked.

Nicole smiled softly,"Sure. There's my best friend Sally..."

Tails let out a sigh as he reached the computer. He began to type a few things, stopping before he ultimately hit reset.

There was a loud noise as everything in the ship shut down, before the ship turned back on again. The computer then said,"Rebooting. Image created." A hologram of a Lynx appeared,"Please give this unit a name."

Tails was about to say something before Whisper said,"Nadia. It's my mother's name..."

Sonic smiled and patted Whisper on her back, "Sounds like a great name."

"Name accepted." Nadia said,"Hello!"

Whisper took out her mask and held it out,"Would you like to be in my mask?"

"Alright then!" The hologram smiled.A long cord extended out and attached itself to the mask,"Download done. Hello Whisper!"

Tails stared at the computer for a long second. He let out a sigh before a blue cube creature appeared next to him and patted him on the shoulder. Tails accepted it for a long second, before yelping,"What's that!?"

"They don't have wisps in your dimension?" Sonic said, as Whisper lightly patted the little friend.

"I'm fairly certain, well, I haven't seen them in my dimension, at least. It's possible that I haven't gotten that far yet, though. " Tails began thinking,"Though my Sonic was in space for an entire year, did he miss them?"

"Probably, they're kind of easy to miss, unless Eggman uses them for an amusement park.

Tails' eyes widened in horror,"Oh..."

Knuckles sat at the base of the Master Emerald, looking up at the clouds above. That was when he heard footsteps behind him.

Knuckles opened his eyes and frowned. With a small grumble he said to himself, "I swear to god, if that's Rouge..." tough he had to admit, if it was Trip he wouldn't mind too much. Getting up her turned to look at who was coming.

It was an aged white echidna with a single red eye and an armcannon concealed within a cloak. He pulled out a ring and put it below the two of them sending them falling into a rocky landscape.

Knuckles let out a gasp as he fell and flew to a rocky outcropping. Latching onto the side, he looked towards his opponent, "Who are you?"

The Cyborg Echidna landed on another outcropping. He aimed his arm cannon at him,"I am Dr. Zachary. It's a pleasure to see you, Knuckles the Echidna."

"How did you know who I am?" Asked Knuckles, his eyes never leaving him. He could feel his muscles tense as he prepped himself for an attack

Dr. Zachary smiled"In another world, you were my enemy. I guess I still am." He fired a red laser beam at him.

Knuckles leaped off the rock wall and latched to the second part. With a grunt, he leapt towards Zachary, trying to slam his fist into the face of his new opponent, "You got me away from my home, you are already my enemy."

Zachary used his robotic arm to block the fist. With a grin, he used his other hand to punch Knuckles in the gut.

Knuckles let out a gasp of pain, spitting out some saliva. Spinning around he slammed a backfist into Zachary's face.

Zachary felt that one and slid back. He aimed his arm again and blasted him.

This sent Knuckles flying back and forced to land on another rock, wincing at the burn on his chest

Zachary aimed and fired again, walking forward.

This time, Knuckles was fast enough to jump away, the fire burning the heel of his shoe. Turning around in mid flight, he slammed both of his fists into Zachary's stomach.

Zachary fell onto his back. He then got up, panting before using his armcannon to fire one more time.

Knuckles barely had time to dodge as the arm cannon hit his left leg, causing him to crash into the ground.

Zachary walked over to him,"Hehehe, this is too easy!" He aimed again.

"For me," Knuckles snarked as he slammed an uppercut into Zachary's face before spinning into a hook

Zachary fell back. He panted,"Despite my upgrades, this body can't keep up."

"That's a shame." Another voice said from another outcropping,"I have no use for you anymore."

Zachary's eyes widened,"Finitevus, wai-"

Dr. Finitevus held out a small device and pressed the button, causing Zachary to explode.

Knuckles turned to the newcomer, frowning, "Why did you do that to him?"

Finitevus smiled,"He served his purpose, as did I." He looked towards the sky where Angel Island floated in the distance,"My plan will come to fruition within moments."

"Plan, what plan..." Knuckles then turned his head to look back at Angel island, "Oh don't tell me, not again.

Dr. Finitevus nodded as Angel Island produced a green beam that shot into the sky,"The world will be rewritten..."

Starline hummed as he got the emeralds set up around the Master Emerald. He put down the Sol Emeralds," And these are the base." He heard something come behind him,"Oh, Scourge, you're ba-"

Fiona pushed him out of the way as a green tenrec punched the ground where he was only moments ago. The woman growled,"I heard you were alive..." She turned to him, electricity flowing off of her,"Now I get the pleasure of tearing you limb from limb!"

Starline gulped a bit,"Oh, Surge... er," He backed away, talking to his wrist,"Scourge, please hurry before I die! Again!" He glowed blue and dodged out of the way of another attack.,"Help!"

A nervous voice spoke out, "S-s-surge, be careful. Remember what we talked about when it came to violence."

Surge looked behind her,"Relax, Kit, I'll make sure the blood doesn't get on ya." She cracked her knuckles.

"T-thank you," Kit said, hiding behind a desk.

A green blur rushed by, putting Starline onto a ladder somewhere. In front of Surge, stood Scourge. HE smiled as he tipped his glasses, "Look babe. I don't know what your beef is, but no one attacks my-" he paused and wolf whistled, "Wow, baby got back."

Surge stared at him, before grinning,"I should be mad that you replaced me with a poser, Doc, but this one's real good-looking!" She sped towards him.

Scourge laughed, "Why thank you toots!" he said, before turning into a ball and spinning towards her, then jumping into a kick into the face

Surge fell to the ground before running forward and doing an electrified jump kick to his face.

Scourge held up an forearm for a block, wincing at the shock, "Oh, the prof gave you tricks?"

Surge scoffed,"Yeah, the only good thing the doc gave me."

She looked at him up and down,"Did he do the same to you?"

Scourge went for a sweep, "Ya kidding? This awesome is 100% pure me."

Surge leaped up,"Wow, so that's all-natural? Nice."

Scourge nodded and went for an uppercut, " So, did the doc give you that fine bod as well?"

Surge blocked it,"Nah, mostly my powers. This is all me!"

Fiona watched and snarled,"They're flirting!"

Starline dusted himself off and nodded,"Yes. Real shame, isn't it?" He put a hand on her shoulder,"He's going to abandon you like so many others." He watched Fiona's face twist in rage,"Why don't you do something about it?" He motioned towards the emeralds.

Fiona looked at them,"Those?"

"Go ahead... use them."

Scourge jumped up for an air roundhouse kick, "Gotta say, it's a very nice bod!"

Surge kicked at the same time,"You too!"

At that point, a beam of light erupted behind them,"SCOURGE!"

Surge blinked,"Uh," She looked behind her at the light, noticing a white fox in the center of the beam slowly decending to the ground,"... Is that your girlfriend?"

"Um...yeah," Scourge squeaked. " Honey, why are you made?"

Fiona levitated to the ground and walked towards him. Not only was her fur white, her eyes had become black with red pupils,"I... can trust no one." She appeared in front of him and punched him in the stomach.

Scourge let out a groan of pain as he was knocked back and into a wall. Struggling to get up, he moaned, "Sweetie? It wasn't what it looked like."

Fiona glared at him,"That old line?" Surge appeared behind her, and Fiona elbowed her in the stomach without looking.

"Yeah, I was kind of hoping," Scourge said, before running to spindash her, "Now come on, you need to relax!"

She held her hand out, grabbing the spindash,"I won't relax. Not while the worlds are still around!"

"What do you mean?" asked Scourge.

"I'll make the worlds better. I'll change them to make it perfect for me!" Fiona said," No more Eggman, no more gods, no more Sonics!"

Surge looked at Kit and grabbed his arm before speeding towards Scourge.

"No more... wait that's me! We don't need it to be fixed!" Scourge said

"No more words." Fiona held her hand up.

Surge grabbed Scourge,"We're getting out of here!" And sped off. She began to think, Does this mean I have to...

Lanolin heard her communicator beep. She answered,"What is it, Jewel?"

"Help!" Jewel shouted,"Some weird robot's wrecking the place... and I just got done fixing it!

Sonic blinked, "Weird robot? I'm-"

He appeared next to Jewel, "Here."

Jewel was hiding behind a desk while a robot in spiked golden armor was destroying things,"Ah!" She screamed,"Did he break my pot!? I worked hard on that!"

Tails appeared through the door,"What in the?"

The robot looked at him and Sonic,"Ah, Sonic and the Pixel Brain."

Tails frowned,"Oh that is just wrong... wait, that sounds familiar..."

"Hey, don't mock the brother," Sonic said, smirking, "So, tell me, got a name with that armor?"

"You don't know? I am Commander Brutus!" He stormed towards him.

"Please to meet ya," Sonic said, leaning against the doorway, "Care to take this fight outside, Rutus?"

"It's Brutus! And of course!" Brutus ran towards him.

Sonic smiled as he ran backwards, leading Brutus away from Jewel's house. Then he leaped up and spun around in a circle, creating a lighting ring. Then he leaped up and snapped his fingers, summoning a swarm of sonic boom slashes into Brutus.

Brutus crossed his arms, forming and x as he blocked the hits,"Hah, I'm too tough for that, hedgehog!"

Tails flew on,"What do I need,"He saw a house shaped like his head,"... Really?" He flew in,"Let's see, here, ooh, bombs."

Sonic bounced onto one of the sides of a building and flew in for a fast kick. hen he leapt back, turned into a spindash, and struck Brutus in the stomach.

Brutus was pushed back by the force of the hit. He raised his fist and punched at Sonic,"I'm invincible, nothing you have can take me down, nothing short of Super Sonic!" He raised a knee to strike him.

Only for a cyborg rabbit to catch in her hand. She used her other hand to hand Sonic a Power Ring,"This might work, Sugahog!"

Sonic nodded and ran over to grab at the power ring.

There was a blinding flash of light as Sonic was covered in electric and sparkling stars. Turning to look back at Brutus, he raced off and began to circle around the yellow mech.

Disappearing and reappearing in a flash of light, he began to strike rapidly into Brutus chest with quick mach punches and kicks, weakening the armor.

Bouncing off the armor for a bit to leap into the air, he turned into a large buzzsaw and slashed down Bruts in the head.

Brutus' eyes widened as he was cut in two.

Tails showed up with a bomb,"Alright-" He then noticed the mysterious rabbit,"Bunnie!?"

Bunnie smiled up at him,"Howdy!"

Tails landed,"What, how-"

"Uh, Tails?" Tangle landed behind him,"Are we supposed to see your AI?" (

"I'm, just curious about him," Whisper said.

Sonic looked up, "Uh yeah, Tails...we see her too."

Nicole stared for a few seconds, before letting out an,"Eep, uh, hi?"

Tails' eyes widened. "Okay, this isn't normal." He turned and noticed a beam of light coming from the distance."Neither is that."

"What?" Sonic asked,

"Tails, what is that?" asked Tangle

Surge's voice came from behind them,"That's partially this guy's fault."

Tails turned to her, noticing that in her hands were Scourge and Kit,"... Great, two Scourges, that's all I need right now!"

"Scourge, is that another me," Sonic asked.

"Scourge, you from an evil dimension. Better looker, been chased by that little punk," Scourge pointed to Tails, "For almost five months now."

"And he's partially responsible for that beam," Kit said with a gulp.

"What did he do," Tangle asked, bouncing on her tail, "Practically cheat on his girlfriend right in front of her eyes?"

"It wasn't cheating, I was just telling this girl that she was the hottest thing in leather and-" Scourge paused, "Oh...I am a bad boyfriend..."

There was a pause before Tails began laughing,"Oh my gosh, this is hilarious! I'm not even going to ask how relationship drama can cause this! I'm just going to revel in this!"

Lanolin was about to ask a question before this and just stared at him.

"All this time that you and Fiona tried to ruin our lives, and it finally blew up in your face!?" Tails shouted,"How does it feel!?"

Scourge frowned and raised a finger, for a moment he wanted to snark. He wanted to mock the fox, but instead, he lowered his head, "Like I hurt the one person in this whole damn multiverse I gave a damn about and I want to fix it."

"Like you care." Tails scoffed,"I don't want to hear anything about how bad you feel. How many times, how many people have you messed with!? You think you can fix this? You may have just caused the end of the world because of your own stupidity!"

As Tails continued, Sonic reached behind him and put a hand on his little brother's shoulder. He looked and shook his head, "Tails, there's going plenty of time to rip him a new one later."

"IS there!?" Tails yelled.

Bunny raised a hand,"Suga, you're acting a little-"

Surge grinned,"Oh no, let him do this, this is hilarious."

"No, I've had it up to here with all this, all I wanted to do was fix my friend, and this guy comes along and ruins it! Ruins everything!"Tails looked at him,"And... and... I'm yelling at someone who's already been beaten..." Tails flew up and out.

"Tails wait," Nicole said, holding out her hand.

Sonic paused and looked, "I'll talk to him." and he sped off.

"Well, while we're recapping," Tangle stuck her hand out, "I'm Tangle, and this is Whisper and Lanolin."

Bunnie took her hand and shook it,"Bunnie Rabbot! Pleased to meet ya!"

Lanolin looked at Surge,"Care to give the full details of what happened?"

"I'm guessing a mass of Chaos Emeralds caused this." Another voice came from behind them. A green canary in a striped sweater came over,"I'm Tekno the Canary, Freedom Fighter."

"Freedom fighter, like her?" asked Tangle indicated Bunnie, who waved.

"Yes, though I never met her before. Which I suppose makes sense. It seems that the Emeralds are causing rips within reality, causing several other universes to converge onto this one." Tekno said.

Tangle blinked, "So you mean a lot of people are coming in?"

"But why, the emeralds never did that before," Lanolin said.

"Normally there are only seven in one world. But what it sounds like to me is that this Starline fellow took emeralds from several universes. That much energy from different universes is causing an influx of energy that's causing massive damage on a multiversal scale."

"Whoa, so could someone like, explain that in English?" Manic asked.

They all spun to see Sonia and Manic appearing behind them.

"Hi there!" Sonia said.

A chipmunk wearing a blue closed-up vest and black shorts came in,"I'm guessing she means that all those emeralds coming together is a bad thing."

Scourge frowned, "Oh great, the princess is here too."

"Princess?" asked Tangle.

"I, er, don't like to bring it up. I'm Sally Acorn, leader of the Freedom Fighters." At that point, Bunnie gave her a hug.

"Ah'm so glad to see ya, Sally girl!" She looked at her up and down,"Nice outfit."

Sally giggled,"It's nice to see you too, Bunnie. I do miss the ponytail, though."

Bunnie rubbed her hair,"Maybe Ah should grow one..."

"So she's not the Princess I know." A metallic voice said. standing on a building above them was a robotic Sonic that was black with a few gold stripes.

AT this point, the group brought out weapons. The Metal held up his hands,"Whoa, I'm not an enemy. If I were, I'd be attacking right now."

Sally's energy sword detracted,"... He has a point, most Metals don't tend to be subtle."

A wooden girl stepped out, "Brother metal?"

"Name's Shard." He leaped down and looked at the little puppet girl,"And who's this!?"

"M-My name is Belle," the puppet said, bowing. "I just heard the commotion and wanted to see what was happening.""

Shard smiled,"Well, you shouldn't worry about anything right now. We'll take care of everything," He turned to the group,"Right?"

Sally nodded as she walked into the center of the group,"I know that we barely know each other at this point, but I also know that our world is in danger. We mus-"

Lanolin walked up to her,"Wait a minute, why are you talking like a leader!?"

Sally blinked,"Sorry, I'm so used to-"

Lanolin turned to the group,"How about I give the orders instead. No, let's make this fair, let's put it to a vote. Who wants the Princess to lead?" She noticed the entire group raising their hands,"What!? Surely someone voted me!"

A badger showed up, raising her hand,"I don't trust the government!"

"Great, it's the crazy one." Lanolin frowned,"Wait..." She turned to Tangle and Whisper.

Whisper lightly kicked the ground, "Sorry...she seems more official."

"And, you know...less is more," Tangle teased and waggled her eyebrows.

Lanolin let out a scoff as she walked to the group,"Fine..."

"Anyway, it's obvious that these dimensional distortions are going to get worse. More are going to come through, and not all of them will be friendly, so we must go forth and stop every one of them." Sally stepped forward and looked at the island,"Tekno, can you tell them where the distortions are? Then everyone can split up and stop each one. As for me?" She watched a plane in the distance,"I'm going to help Sonic."

Off Topic:

Fiona blinked, and looked at the sheep, "HOLY MOLY THOSE ARE SOME GIANT-"

"Tits! The amazing Tit brothers are here to entertain and amaze you. Just like Lanolin's-"

"Boobies!" Two birds with blue shoes smiled,"We're the best pair around, almost as good as Lanolin's-"

"Milk JUGS!" a mare said, crying "Someone knocked over my milk jugs! This makes me mad, they were almost as nice as LAnolin's-"

"Melons! Nice juicy and round, just like Lanolin's-"

"Fun bags! Filled to the brim with beautiful toys and objects, just like Lanolin and her miraculous-"

"Boobs!" Rouge said, frowning.

"What?" Shadow asked.

"Everyone out there is stealing an old movie joke, just because they want to talk about Lanolin's-"

"KNOCKERS!" Lanolin said, frowning, "Yeah, I know!"

Chapter 11: Multiverse

Chapter Text

A few moments ago

Tails sat on a couch, curled up and rubbing his tails.

A gust of wind blew by and a white gloved hand rubbed Tails' back, "Want to talk, little guy?" Sonic asked.

Tails looked at him, tears in his eyes,"I'm the worst Tails ever."

"What? What do you mean?" Sonic asked as he sat with Tails.

"I get angry easily, I let myself get worked up every time I see Eggman, I can't do anything without you around." He sobbed,"I let myself get worked up over petty relationship drama... and what do the other Tails' worlds I've been to have?" He breathed in,"A steady girlfriend, a cool spaceship, a fun world with no problems, the ability to go a cool medieval dimension, a musician, cool gadgets, and now?" He looked around the house,"He has his own house, the world's nowhere near as bad as mine, and even better stuff than me! You guys actually have your stuff together!" He looked away,"What's my world of bizarre magic, nonsensical drama, and convoluted lore to yours?"

Sonic shrugged and smiled a little before patting his little brother on the head, "Well, your world seems wild to me. In a good way, like you are never going to know what would happen next."

He then chuckled, "Come on, so what if my world has it all together? It just means I know what comes next, but the way you make it sound, that there are a whole bunch of new people, fun scenarios, and a huge deep story that's just waiting to be found."

"You know," Sonic leaned back and laid his arm on the bench, "I just had an adventure that told me more about the emeralds than I ever knew. But yours sounds like they have something brand new waiting. Personally? I would love to explore that and see what everyone is like there."

"But Sonic, I still feel like," Tails put his head onto his hands, "I can't do anything without you around. I had to find a weapon to stop you, get Uncle Chuck to stop a mad version of you, Let you take out Chaos, Metals, and so many other threats. All I did was just sit around and play on my computer."

"Sounds like you did a lot," Sonic said, smiling as he looked down. "Look, the other you? My Tails? He felt the same way like he was backtracking and needed me, but he is wrong and so are you. You helped save each one of those Sonics by being the smartest two-tailed fox out there."

He looked at the sky and said, "If anything, it sounds like I couldn't do anything without you near me."

"You know what your world is? A world full of excitement and adventure that people put a lot of heart into seeing be the most unique Sonic world out there."

Tails looked at him, smiling,"Thanks..." He chuckled,"You know, your world isn't as unique as mine, but... there's a lot to like here. The speed, the adventure, the people. Actually, come to think of it, maybe we're not so different. The world's still healing, you're still dealing with all kinds of villains, it's just a bit more... complete maybe."

There was a rumbling sound,"We should probably take care of that!" Tails chuckled. He flew off towards a blue plane,"And the normal Tornado won't cut it!"

"Now you're speaking my language!" Sonic said, racing ahead and then jumping onto the plane's wings. He smiled as he gave a thumbs up to Tails.

Tails returned the favor before flying off.

Somewhere, in a certain base, Eggman watched a screen that showed several black spots on a map. At that point, he began to get several calls. With a push of a button, he saw thirteen animals on the screen.

A yellow Thlyacine spoke,"Doctor, we are the Egg Bosses. I'm aware that you may not know us, but we know you and want to serve you."

"Serve me, how?" asked Eggman, putting a finger to his chin. Behind him, a white-haired girl watched and nodded.

A Chinchilla spoke up,"By helping you take advantage of the confusion and take over the world, Sire! Oh great Eggman! Oh wonderful-"

A water buffalo said,"Quiet!"

"I do like your spunk, and I do need help seeing these portals. Your in," Eggman said with a smile, "Sage?"

"I'll link you all here to the main computer to check on your progress." The girl said with a nod.

The group then said,"Sir!"

Everything was perfectly normal for the Chaotix as they sat in their office. At least until an army of badniks arrived.

Charmy looked outside the window, "Umm, Vector, VECTOR!"

"Not now Charmy, I've got a letter to write," Vector said, smiling, "Now, how many letters are in, Scandalous?"

"BUT THERE ARE BADNIKS!" Charmy yelled.

"Do they have an appointment?" Asked Vector.

Espio looked down at a piec of paper, blinked, and then said, "Yes. Apparently they phoned ahead. Well at least Eggman did."

"Well, that was nice of him," Vector said, slamming open the door and slamming his tail against a bug to send it flying into a buzzbomber. Charmy flew out next, clashing his stinger with the robot hornet in a sword duel.

Espio leaped out and threw a series of shurikens at three crabmeats.

Vector smirked, "Come on, how do you guys think you can beat us with this?"

A red armadillo smashed a buzzbomber behind them,"And you thought they needed help, Ray."

"You're right, Mighty, I just wanted to see them again." A yellow flying squirrel punched a crabmeat away.

Vector blinked, and smiled, "No...it can't be!"

"RAY! MIGHTY!" Charmy cheered and flew to his two old friends, hugging them.

Vector followed soon after, hugging them both, "Mighty, havent seen you since that carnival island and Ray...have I seen you?"

"We did pull him out of that labyrinth Sonic was in," ESpio said.

The two laughed. Mighty said,"We were just gonna visit," He looked at the other robots,"But this is way more fun."

At that point, the badniks stopped,"Allow me." A huge water buffalo in purple armor came into view,"I'll take these guys down."

"Oh well look here," Vector said, "Someone big wants to play and rumble!"

"Vector, wait, I don't think..." Espio said, only to watch in shame as Vector charged out with a right hook.

The buffalo turned his head to the side and then punched Vector in the snout,"Name's Axel."

Vector hit the ground with a thump, "Peas to meet ya," he said, moaning in pain.

A that point, Axel would feel several pricks on his fur.

"Take that, and that, and that," Charmy said.

Axel grabbed the bee and tossed it into the ground.

Ray flew in with a dive kick.

Axel grabbed Ray, rolled him into a ball, and threw him into the others.

There was a large sound of bowling pins being knocked over, sending team Chaotix tumbling over. Vector slowly got up, panting, "Ok, we need a new strategy. Any ideas?"

"I got some, but we need time," Espio said.

Ray held up his hand, "Um, Mr. Axel, according to the Eneva convention rules, you need to give us five minutes to come up with a plan before you kill us all."

Axel blinked,"Well, I can't ignore those rules. You go ahead."

"That goodness he's an idiot," Espio whispered as he began to talk.

Mighty shrugged, "I don't know. He remembered rules I didn't know about."

"No, Ray made them up," Espio said.

Ray shook his head, "No I didn't. They established those rules after Eggman took over a few years back."

Epio blinked, and shook his head, quickly explaining that plan."

Axel looked at his watch, tapping his foot.

"How many more minutes?" asked Charmy to Axel.

"Two minutes."

Charmy gulped, "Ok, how about you play something on your ds?"

"I'm a Game Gear guy."

"Good choice!" Vector said, before splitting from the huddle.

Axel made a step but was stopped by Vector's hand.

"Wait! I need a beat!" Vector then turned on his headset.

Vector ran at Axel, dodging his fist when he could. As Axel delivered two hard punches into Vector's gut, he felt a sting in his eyes from Charmy. Using this opening, Espio threw his shuriken at the various badniks, making them explode around them.

Recovering from the stings, he saw Vector come in for an uppercut. In retaliation, he slammed a punch into Vector's chest, listening to a crack with a smile.

Charmy gasped and flew at Axel, only to be grabbed by the buffalo. The buffalo smiled, beginning to crush the bee, "Muhahahaha, in me power!"

"Nope," Charmy said cutely and pointed up.

Axel barely ad time to look as Ray glided in, dropping Mighty from a high height and letting him it Axel hard with a dive bomb. Mighty bounce up and made the attack with Ray twice.

Recovered, Vector grabbed Charmy and threw him to Espio. Vector then slammed his two fists into the head of Axel before jumping away. Looking around, Axel found himself surrounded by a line of fire shuriken.

Vector smiled as he blew out a wave of fire at the shuriken, making the set explode around Axel. As the explosion cleared, the team did a battle pose.

Axel was burnt all over,"... Well done." He fell face-first into the ground.

Amy hummed as she looked over a store window. Everything seemed perfectly normal as she held her shopping bag. Then Amy noticed a robot sneaking up behind her.

"Please tell me you're a good robot," Amy said, slipping a hand into her pouch.

The black robot had a single red eye. Alongside it were similar robots with rifles pointed at her.

Amy nodded, and then threw her cards into the air. As the robots lasers fired and blew through the cards, they discovered that all they hit was the storefront. Behind them, three of the robots were hit by a hammer, while the black robot was hit with the hammer, "That's for ruining my shopping day!"

One of the bots was shot in the head by a crossbow bolt. Tekno came up next to Amy,"Perhaps you should pick a different day, friend." She twirled a hand crossbow.

"Do, I know you?" asked Amy.

"Not in this timeline." Tekno said,"I'm Tekno, by the way." She fired another shot behind her,"And I know who you are." She smiled at her.

Two figures appeared atop of a parked bus,"Look at that, Clove, Amy has a friend for me to take down!" said a pronghorn with cybernetic ears and eyes.

A normal-looking pronghorn next to her crossed her arms,"At least you get to have some fun, Cassie, but don't overdo it." She looked at Amy.

Amy let her hammer rest on her shoulder as she looked at the PRoghorns. She frowned a little as she said, "You know, we don't have to do this. Right? You both can back down."

Clove frowned,"... I can't back down, not now."

Cassia smiled as she pulled out two tonfas,"Sorry, but we have our reasons for fighting!" She ran at Tekno, knocking her back. Clove pulled out a stick that extended into a long purple energy staff. She ran at Amy.

Amy extended her hammer and blocked the staff. She then stepped forward, trying to hit Clove with her hammer.

Jumping back from a strike from the stick, Amy threw three cards at Clove's knees.

Tekno gasped as she used her hands to block Cassia's wrists. She deflected one hand to punch her in the face. Angered, Cassia punched Tekno back, sending her into an electronics store.

Clove stepped back,"Cards?" She ran to the side and did a horizontal strike at Amy.

The cards exploded in flash of blinding light. Amy appeared to the side, "Cards. Magic." she said, before slamming her hammer into Clove's stomach.

Clove let out a gasp as the hammer hit her. She fell towards the ground before catching herself and using one of her legs to kick at her.

Cassia looked inside the electronics shop. Tekno was nowhere to be seen. She scanned it as she walked the aisles,"Here birdy birdy birdy..."

"This was a bad move, Cassie." Tekno's voice said,"I'm in my element."

Cassie's eyes widened as she spun around, only to see Tekno place a device on her chest. This electrocuted her,"Gah!"

The kick knocked Amy into a magic stone store. Smiling, she began to hit her hammer at Clove, using the sones as shots, "You can quit. You don't really need to fight us."

Clove used her scythe to deflect the stones,"I can't quit, I have to do this-"

"AAAAHHH!" The scream of pain entered Clove's ears. Her eyes widened,"Cassie!" She spun around and ran towards the sound of the scream.

She entered the store, noticing Tekno kneeling in front of her little sister who's eyes were completely blank,"You-" She leaped up with her staff in rage only to be blocked by Amy's hammer,"Let me go!" Her eyes then drifted up towards Cassie, noticing that Tekno seemed to be trying something,"Let... me..."

Tekno was deep in concentration as Cassie was screaming in pain,"Come on, I'm not going to be a killer now!" She put a small device onto Cassie's body,"Give a few seconds."

Clove stopped and ran to Cassie and held her hand,"I'm here... it's okay..."

Tekno put to amps together, creating an electric shock that turned Cassie's eyes back on letting the younger sister gasp. The first person she laid eyes on was Clove,"Sis? Did we win?" she turned, noticing Tekno,"Oh."

Amy nodded, "Yeah, you didn't. Sorry."

Cassie looked at Tekno,"... Why did you help me?"

Tekno rubbed her fist on her chest,"I know someone like you. Someone who was also stuck in a machine thanks to Eggman. I'm guessing he gave you those cybernetics to keep you alive."

Cassia nodded,"Yeah, he said he'd cure me."

"And you believed him?" asked Amy.

Cassia frowned,"Of course, I mean, he wouldn't lie, right?"

Tekno stared at Clove, who remained silent.

Cassia looked up at her,"Right?" She frowned,"Clove?"

"Cassie... I..." Clove looked away,"Eggman did lie... but if I leave..."

"Leave?"

"The cybernetics..., they'll stop and-"

Cassia slapped Clove on the head,"In a world with a hyper intelligent fox, you didn't think of an alternative!?"

"Yeah, Tails could probably do something," Amy said. Then she smiled, "And to prove a point," she took out her deck, spun around and threw her cards into the air.

After a moment, she caught three. Smirking she looked at it, "Hmmm, the first one says you will find a new job soon. Then the next says you will have an operation, and the last...says you will find eternal happiness."

Clove stared at her,"And I'm expected to believe this?"

"We have a witch on the team." Cassie said.

There was silence, before Clove closed her eyes,"Good point... Thank you."

"And besides," Amy said, putting her deck back into her pocket, "IF you can't trust the world of Tarrot, who can you trust? Like t tells me that Tekno...really should say something to other-me one day."

Tekno blushed,"I, er, I better go somewhere." She bolted,"That sure is a nice radio!"

Shard looked up at the sky, Belle right next to him,"You're a badnik, huh?"

"Yea," Bell whispered.

Shard smiled and patted her on the head,"Well, you're kind of a cool one huh?"

Belle let out a cute squeak.

Shard knelt down next to her,"So, I'm guessing being a badnik's got you all worked up, hasn't it?"

"A little, I just wish they didn't have to fight my friends," Belle sighed, "Eggman is the one making them do this."

"He's making some of them. Sadly a lot of them want to do this." Shard shook his head,"But hey? I think some robots like me would rather do their own thing!"

"You really think so?"asked Belle.

"I know so. After all, I'm here!"

Belle smiled at this and snuggled close, "You know...you feel warm

"Thanks." Shard then put his hand in front of her,"You better get going, they're here."

"Who?" asked Belle

That was when several Metal Sonics slammed down to the ground. Above them was a large red metal sonic,"We are the Metallix. You are a traitor to our Brotherhood.

Belle took a step to be with Shard, " Metallix? But there's only one metal. What do you mean brotherhood."

"We are many." The Metallix said,"Those of the Brotherhood are-"

One of them was kicked to the ground by a gold and black Gizoid robot.

Gemerl then got into a fighting stance, held out one hand, and waved at the bots.

"Are hurting?" asked Belle.

Shard smiled at Gemerl,"Well, look at this!" He walked up to him, punching another without looking,"Love the color scheme!" He looked around,"Hmm, 1000 bots. Plus the big boss. Bet I can take on more than you."

Gemerl put his hands on his hips ,"Oh really"

He then gave Shard a fist bump.

He jumped to the first metal and did a jump kick into it's head. Doing a handstand, he did a spinkick before jumping up and landing into one'schest with a fist slam. He then stood and looked at the others, a number in the right corner of his vision counting down the number he took out.

Shard flew forward, grabbing Metallix and using it to slam into several others. He then threw that one's beaten body into a group of others before blasting it with his arm canon. In the corner of his eye, he set up a counter for both of them.

Gemerld ducked under one of their kicks, before standing up to grab the metal by the leg. Spinning around like a top, he used the metal to beat his companions with. Then he threw the useless metal into the next group, causing them to explode.

(G: 299

S: 300)

Gem frowned and backhanded one,

(G: 300)

Shard spindashed through several more, before uncurling from his ball to kick one into the ground. He dodged a Metallix claw and then pulled it close to blast it in the chest.

Gemerl Jumped and did four kicks in the air, striking at a Metallix with each kick. Then he landed on the chest of the last one and used it as a slide to blast and strike at it's companions.

Jumping off, he did a backspin kick to take off the head of the next one before looking at Shard, almost daring him to show off.

Shard smirked. Without looking he dodged several strikes from a Mettalix behind him before grabbing its claw and then spinning it around to strike several down in succession.

At that point, the Metallix Emperor landed down between them.

Shard looked at his counter,"Even. So this guy's our tiebreaker."

Gemerl nodded and bowed to Shard as if to say "You can try first so I can laugh later."

Shard smirked,"Aw, that's sweet of you!" He spindashed towards him.

The Emperor grabbed him and tossed him aside,"I will not be taken down by an inferior model."

Shard got up, "Did you hear that? He called you inferior."

Gemerl frowned and ran in for a double punch followed by an uppercut

The Emperor dodged back and forth before punching Gemerl in the chest.

Gemerl bounced back with a flip and tried for a sweep.

The Emperor grabbed the leg and tossed him to Shard who caught him. Shard looked at him"Want to hit him together?"

Gemerl nodded.

Shard sped forward towards the Emperor with a spindash.

Gemerl leaped onto Shard, riding the spindash before jumping up and kicking the emperor in the face with a spin kick.

The Emperor held up his arms before the attacks both split him in twain.

Gemerl landed next to Shard and then did another fist bump.

Shard fistbumped him back,"Cool!"

Somewhere, at a dock, the Neo Diamond Cutters waited.

As Whisper cleaned her gun, Tangle bounced on her tail. With a grumble, she said, "Bored, bore bored bored!"

Whisper couldn't help but smile at her friend being so anxious.

Lanolin frowned,"I know you're bored. Look, we can't just ask for whoever to show up!" She walked on the dock,"All we know is that the distortion appeared right-" At that moment, a hand broke through the dock and grabbed Lanolin's foot. It then pulled her under,"Yipe!"

Tangle shot out her tail, "Hang on!"

Lanolin grabbed on to it. The thing grabbing her let go and then jumped out revealing herself to be a squid.

"My name is Abyss." The Squid said

Tangle saw the squid, and instinctively stood in front of Whisper, "You aren't getting near my girl with your naughty tentacles you beast!"

Abyss scoffed,"Haven't heard that one before." She leaped into the water. From the side came one of her tentacles.

"Well, it was either that or point out how your name sounds like you are trying to hard to sound cool," Tangle said, "I mean, really... Abyss?"

The tentacle responded by striking at Tangle, becoming electrified.

Tangle leaped to the side, barely dodging the tentacle. She then shot out her tail in a fist to strike. Meanwhile, from a rooftop, Whisper aimed her wispon and began to target the squid.

Abyss let out a gasp as a shot barely missed her in the water. She leaped out and tried to kick at Tangle.

As she leaped, Lanolin jumped up to do a tackle, "That's for trying to drag me underwater!"

Abyss grabbed her as she did,"Okay, then I'll do it again!" She pulled her under.

Lanolin gulped as she was pulled under to hold her breath. Under the water, she began to punch and kick at her opponent to try and force her to let her go.

Abyss winced before letting go.

Lanolin got out and rolled off the pier to the shore with Tangle. Tangle smiled and waved her tail at the cephalopod

Abyss sent another tentacle her way.

Tangle wrapped her tail around the tentacle and began to pull, "Come on, Takoyaki!"

"I'll help!" Lanolin said pulling with Tangle.

The tentacle charged with electricity.

"Oh, now that is cheating!" Tangle said, just as a shot rang out to hit the tentacle.

"Gah!" Abyss winced before swimming down into the lake.

"Ok, so how are we getting down there?" asked Lanolin.

Tangle looked to her left and saw a little blue sub with a drill. Smirking, she said, "I don't think he'll mind."

Tails smiled, "I wanted to take her out into the lake, you know, to see what improvements she needs

Whisper nodded and looked to one of her wisps. Then she cocked her gun.

A few shots from a wisp passed Abyss by. When she turned, she would see Tangle smiling in the Tails marine.

"Where did that come from!?" Abyss attempted to move away from the sub.

Tangle could only do hand gestures in the sub due to not being able to talk as Whisper fired missiles

Abyss dodged one but was hit by the other.

Tangle then looked in the distance, and smiled wide. With a cruel grin she began to shoot at the squid, moving her towards a small little shining light in the distance.

Abyss smirked, only to feel a hook latch onto the back of her suit. Then she gasped as she was pulled out of the water by tthe hook. When she looked to her left, she saw a big, purple cat.

"Hey, look Froggy, I caught something big!" The cat said, before throwing her into the box.

Abyss flopped around for a minute before getting up,"I'm not a fish!"

Tangle, Whisper, and Lanolin surrounded her. Tangle smiled, "So what are you then?" before cracking her knuckles.

Abyss looked around in fear,"A fish out of water?

"...Nope," Lanolin said.

Tangle nodded, "OUR PUNCHING BAG!"

As the beating continued until morale improved, Big the Cat happily fished. He paid no attention to the sounds of pain, yells, and screams as Abyss was made into a punching bag.

Surge hummed as she walked the streets,"Normally it's just me and the squirt. But you're like a lost puppy, ain't ya?" She asked.

"I'm not normally this gloomy you know," Scourge said, frowning. "It's just that...I'm feeling bad for some reason. I'm used to just loving, leaving, being bad, and you know, evil. But, I feel like I hurt her."

"Yeah, being an ass'll do that." Surge put a pinky in her ear.

Scourge walked along a small rail and then slid along it, "But I like being an ass. Except, to her."

Surge did the same,"Well, you were. I mean, it's not really an issue, she had to have known that you were a dick from the start."

"Yeah, and she should've known that! I mean, I'm an evil Sonic. He sticks to one person and I'm a player. Heck, I would've snogged the Bunnie if I didn't pass out drunk before we did anything." Scourge said.

Scourge shook his head, "I don't know why me hitting on a cute Tenric was so bad this time. Heck, I don't even know why I've been feeling so bad for this time."

"Heh, you know, when I started doing some good deeds, I actually started feeling, y'know, good. Maybe you're feeling the opposite." Surge said.

"The opposite?" Scourge asked.

"You did something bad and now you feel bad. Maybe it's time for a change." Surge said.

"Ahem, do you mind if I interrupt this heart-to-heart!?" A trollish voice said.

Scourge smirked ad put on a pair of shades, "As a matter of fact, I do mind claw boy!"

The horned troll laughed as he flourished his cape,"Too bad! I, Ixis Naugus, am going to have to beat you senseless before I take this world for myself!"

"All right, look buddy," Scourge said, adjusting his glove, "I've had one hell of a few months. I've been chased across the multiverse, thrown through a loony toons worth of jokes, Beaten by variations of hedgehogs, sung at, forced to look like a Tyson Hesse reject, Kicked around, and then mocked at. And you know the worst of it all?"

He then looked down as he adjusted his jacket, "I think I hurt the one goddamn person in this whole multiverse that I gave a damn about. So you know what? I think I'm going to take it out on you, and then I'm going to her and tell her something I never told anyone until now."

Surge grinned as she adjusted her gloves,"That's the ticket!" Her body glowed with electricity.

Naugus grinned,"I like to see you try to take me down, Rodents!

Green sparks of green speed force energy flowed through Scourge, smirking, "Oh, I will. After all, if blue can do it, so can I!"

Scourge turned into a spin dash and raced off, before jumping up and doing a rapid-fire kick into his chest.

Naugus put up an ice shield in front of him. He moved to the side before getting struck by Surge.

Scourge hit the ground and then did a jump uppercut.

Naugus fell back before launching fire from his hand.

Scourge jumped to the side, wincing as he felt the flames lightly burn the sleeve of his jacket. Looking back at Surge, he smirked and ran around Naugus, delivering a quick series of kicks.

Surge ran behind him, using punches.

At that point, a fireball hit them,"Need some help, brother!?"

Scourge paused, and looked at Wendy, "Wait, what?"

Wendy laughed on her broom,"Yes, I am his sister, Wendy!"

Ixis leaned down to Scourge," News to me, too, buddy. But I'm not complaining!" He swung his staff at him.

Scourge moved so fast, that all the staff it was a wavering image of him where he was. In a blink of an eye, Scourge stood on top of the staff, "Thanks Crabbie!"

Surge, seeing her opportunity, spun towards Scourge and Nagus. Leaping up she landed onto Scourge's hands and jumped up higher to throw a lighting bolt at Wendy's broom. Before she began to fall, she spun around in a spin kick to hit Wendy's nose.

Wendy fell off before using a small bubble to catch herself,"Ooh!" At that point, a water whip struck her in the nose,"OW!" She looked at Kit who was standing at the side,"... I don't like foxes."

Naugus leaped back and fired a blast of green energy at the two green animals.

Kit jumped forward and made a water shield to block the fire, "Surge!"

"Kit, what kept you?" asked Surge.

"Well, I was looking for a book to maybe helped Scourge with his relationship issues," Kit said, lightly rubbing his foot and smiling at Scourge.

Surge shook her head. Then she looked back at Wendy, "Hey, witchy-poo! Ain't no one hating on my-"

"Servant," Kit said, "I am always your faithful servant."

Wendy and Ixis stood next to each other,"Gee, she treats him as well as I treat you!" Wendy said.

Ixis frowned,"Not sure how I'd feel about that..."

Scourge frowned and clenched her fist, "I think I just got insulted."

"Yeah, you did," Scourge said, smirking, "Wanna beat them up harder?"

"Nah," Surge said, before punching her palm, "I want to massacre them!"

She then grabbed Scourge and threw him at the two mages, charging him up with electrity. Kit nodded and ran to the side, summoning some water pillars for Scourge to leap at.

Bouncing from pillar to pillar, only standing on the water for a second, he sped up his attack. Then he jumped in between the two siblings, slamming into both in a green blur.

Before they could react, he jumped up into the air and slammed his arms together to create a sonic boom.

Both of their eyes widened as the sonic boom struck them.

Scourge landed in between them and held up a v for victory pose.

Sonia sighed as she walked with Manic,"Why are we walking with the crazy badger again?"

"I picked the short straw," Manic said.

"And besides," Sticks said, waking back, "It gives us a chance to see how things are here in ! HI!" she then waved to the group.

Sonia stared at her,"Who... you know what, you've been saying strange things all trip, I'm just not going to bother asking."

"So, more hedgehogs for me to crush!?" A small voice came from in front of them out of a large suit of armor

"It's a GUNDAM!" Sticks said, "And it's friendly!"

Thunderbolt snarled,"I am not, little badger! At least not to you! I'm only in service to the Great One, he of the mighty Egg!"

Sticks blinked, and then gasped. Then she paused, and then gasped again. Then she paused, and then gasped even louder, "OH MY GOD! You serve Egg Fuu? I knew it, I knew he was behind this, that, and the evil Wicker man who has been looking at my mail!" Sticks said, squeezing her hands into fists.

Thunderbolt stared at her for a few seconds,"Okay, I have a shrine to Eggman and you're freaking me out."

"Well, Rotor is a walrus, but he's not in this chapter!" Sticks said.

Manic looked to Sonia, "Hey, sis..."

"I think I'll just enjoy the show," Sonia said.

Sicks then paused, "Wait, if you have a shrine, then I must ask you to join the most ancient of circles, the most ancient of web powers! The WEBRING!" she then looked to you people reading this, "If you want to know more about Webrings, ask your mom and dad."

"... So in lieu of not having a decent comeback, YOU DIE NOW!" Thunderbolt shot lightning out from her mech.

"NOT IF SEGA STOPS YOU!" Sticks shouted, leaping out of the way.

Nodding, Sonia held her amulet and summoned her piano. In a pink flash, she turned her instrument into a gun and fired a series of pink laser shots at the mecha.

Mani rolled and took to the shadows, watching and planning. Sticks, meanwhile, took the scrollbar on the side, ripped it, spun it in a circle, and glared, "Ok you little rodent! Face my staff work.:

"WHERE DID THAT COME FROM!?" The mech leaped up and let out a dropkick on her as the beams struck her.

The kick knocked Sticks into a nearby warehouse where some farm equipment lay. Looking back at Manic, she waved to him and started to talk.

There were a few moments of silence when the door exploded, Sticks was driving a souped-up Combine harvester with mega blades made of Super Alloy Z and with Manic standing on top, drums at the ready

Thunderbolt's eyes widened as she ran from the harvester. She screamed as she attempted to fire lightning back at them.

Manic, riding on top of the harvester, began to hit o his drums, causing a shockwave to hit the lighing back at her. Sonia jumped up next for the ride, firing another round, "Ok, whose weird idea was this!"

"Well, I saw this in the werehouse and I thought" Sticks said, "What's the best way to handle a bot? With a bigger bot!"

"And you helped her?" asked Sonia.

Manic shrugged, "She said, it would be awesome, and she's right!"

"Besides," Sticks said, "It's not like she has a Getter Robo or something in the wings."

Thunderbolt fell out of her robot,"Do you think I'd have something like that!... uh oh."

The combined harvest bared down on her, closer, closer, and-

Sticks ran up and put up a censored sign, "You guys don't wanna see this"

And the combine harvester latches onto her, turning her into a hay bale. Wheat, this is a pg-13 fic. I wasn't going to put something overly gorey in here!

And now you are probably expecting something still here to make it worth it, well ya ain't. Instead, you are going to get some education. Ahem.

It was the worst of times, it was the best of times. It was the age of Wisdom, it was the age of Foolishness. It was... hey don't click away!

Thunderbolt struggled in the hale bale, "And that is that."

Shadow closed his eyes as he stood in the center rooftop of a large building. He heard the footsteps of someone.

A black creature hissed,"Shadow the Hedgehog..."

Shadow slowly opened his eyes, "Who are you?"

"Name's Eclipse the Darkling." Eclipse said,"I'm here to kill you."

"You wouldn't be the first to try and make that mistake," Shadow said, lowering his arms. "Any reason why?"

"It was what I was bred to do by our collective father, Black Doom. I was made to be your equal, to be able to kill you." Eclipse said, holding out his arms.

Shadow let out a small scoff, "If you really are of his breed, then I will have to destroy you. Just one problem" he said, getting into a fighting stance.

Eclipse frowned, "You're stronger than me?"

"No, because Omega's grumpy," Shadow said.

"Initiating obliteration of moron!" Omega said, lifting up his arms and firing a barrage of bullets. Just as Eclipse began to jump side to side to dodge the bullets, a pink boot flew in to kick his face and sent him flying.

Shadow, standing next to the red robot, began to adjust his glove just as Rouge flew and landed to his left, "Did I make it in time?"

Shadow said nothing, only smiling at her a little before racing at Eclipse before teleporting into the air and hitting him in the face with the back of his punch.

Eclipse snarled as he grabbed Shadow's fist,"Don't think your little friends can save you!" He tried to throw him towards Omega.

"Catching incoming companion," Omega said, reaching out with one hand.

Shadow nodded, and turned into a ball as he flew towards Omega. Rouge leapt up and landed on his shoulder. Omega flew up a ittle and launched Shadow like a missile to the ground. As Shadow hit the ground, he bounce up and turned tinto a flying kick upwards to Eclipse.

Eclipse moved to the side but was quickly struck into the side by Rouge's drill kick.

Eclipse caught the ground beneath him,"Alright then!" a black wisp came to his hand, forming a laser cannon that fired on them.

Omega blocked it, the beam leaving behind burned marks on is hand. Glaring death daggers at Eclipse, he lifted his left and fired a series of missiles at the creature. The explosions hit their mark and caused the rood of the building to shatter.

Shadow leaped from debris to debris, teleporting each step until he reached Eclipse. Jumping up, he threw a right hook followed by a quick left kick. Eclipse blocked and returned the attacks, countering each punch and kick that his opponent sent his way.

Rouge flew down, faster than the falling ruble and fighters then turned up and delivered a flying kick into Eclipse's back and a roundhouse to send him flying back into the building.

Growling, Eclipse aimed his laser and fired outside, nicking Rouge and Shadow in the sides. He then opened his eyes wide in horror as he turned to see Omega outside, hovering and his machine guns ready, "Mother-"

Eclipse's swear was cut off by the barrage that happened to destroy the rest of the building.

There was a smoke cloud that dispersed to reveal Eclipse covered in armor from another wisp.

"Round two," Shadow said, punching his fist into his palm and skating out while Omega fired a series of rockets and bullets.

A third and fourth wisp came to him, forming wings and a sonic cannon on his other arm. Eclipse fired the sonic cannon at them.

The explosion caused the team to fly apart, hitting the walls of the other buildings. Shadow recovered first, shaking his head and wiping the blood from his mouth. Frowning, he skated out and jumped up to throw a series of chaos spears into the sonic arm cannon.

Rouge smiled and grabbed Omega, flying behind Eclipse as he was distracted by shadow.

Eclipse yelled as his cannon was hit. He fired a laser cannon back at Shadow.

As Eclipse was shooting his laser at Shadow, Rouge dropped Omega onto Eclipse's back. The robot then grabbed at the wings, intent on ripping them off.

The wings tore off sending Eclipse falling toward the rubble

Shadow removed his limiters and smirked as he watched Eclipse look in utter horror. Then with a smirk, he jumped up in a spin dash, spinning upward in a thunderbolt up toward Eclipse.

Eclipse grunted as his body became encased in armor,"I've got my own trump card!"

"Oh?" Shadow asked. "Then do you want to see who wins?"

Eclipse cracked his neck,"OF course!"

Shadow sped up, becoming a black lightning bolt as he flew right through into the stomach of Eclipse. From abobe, Omega began to shoot at him with a large laser cannon.

Eclipse held up his hand at the laser while also punching Shadow

"Wide open," Rouge said.

As Eclipse held both at bay, he did not see Rouge turn into a white and pink drill as she flew higher and higher at top speed. She smirked as she plunged her diamond tipped boot into the groin area of eclipse.

Eclipse's eyes opened wide as he let out a high-pitched scream.

Eclipse let go of Shadow and the beam as he screamed.

Eclipse whimpered,"Ow!" He got up and looked around.

Shadow, Rouge, and Omega stood right in front of him, letting him give out any last words of terror.

Eclipse snarled,"No, I won't go down like this!" He ran at them

Shadow round housed him in the face.

The caused Eclipse to fall over.

"Weak," Shadow said, putting his rings back on and walking away.

Knuckles broke through a rock wall, heading towards where he suspected Finitevus to be. Then he found another echidna with some hair on the ground in front of him.

Knuckles paused and looked at the female echidna. It was like looking at him with pink hair, "Why, do you look llike me?" he asked.

The girl stood up and looked at him,"Dad?"

"..."

"What?" Knux deadpanned

The girl blinked, looking at him up and down,"Er, not dad, Stranger!" She grinned,"Name's Lara-Su, how are you!?"

"Pretty good," Knuckles said, looking at her curiously, "Just surprised.

"Yeah, me too..." Lara coughed,"So, uh, what are you doing here, exactly?"

Knuckles began to look around, "I'm looking for an Echidna named Finitevus, he attacked me and my island. I need to pay him back." he then looked to her, "Why are you here?"

"I don't know, actually... wait, Finitevus!?" Lara gasped,"Oh that's not good... not at all! I'll help you take him on!"

Knuckles looked at her, "You know of him? Good, you can help me kick his ass!"

"Right!"

Finitevus' voice began to speak,"Once upon a time there was a universe filled with imagination. Along with this imagination came characters that had histories, lives, and dreams. However, something happened in this universe that caused it to fall off. To separate from the greater multiverse."

"I was a part of that universe. All of my ambitions were crushed by what is known as the Genesis Wave. And why? Because someone didn't like their toys being messed with."

"I was lost in limbo, trying to find my way back home. There, I met a mammoth..."

Finitevus walked in a large white void filled with ruins and debris. Fragments of lost worlds. There, he saw, sitting on a rock, was a large mammoth,"Mammoth Mogul." He realized,"You're alive too. Why are you just sitting there?"

"I want to ponder." Mogul said, staring into the abyss,"I'm immortal, me surviving that wave was inevitable. However, it has become a curse. I can only survive in this nothingness. The only thing for me to do, is ponder."

"..." Finitevus frowned,"Well, I'm not going to give up. I'm going to find a way out! I'm not going to let some wave destroy my life like it has yours!"

"So be it."

"For what felt like centuries I wandered, searching for an exit. And then, by some miracle or freak accident, I found it! But the world I was in was not mine. It was different. Different characters, different history, different places! But then, I found a kindred spirit. A man who was almost dead but much like me."

Starline gasped awake. He looked around, noticing that he was on an operating table,"Where..."

An echidna stood before him,"Hello, Dr. Starline. I am Dr. Finitevus. I have come to give you an offer."

"Alongside him, I formed a plan... He wants to change the world for the sake of Dr. Eggman. But what he doesn't know is that I just want to see the worlds burn."

Knuckles frowned and began to look for the source of the voice, "So, rather than use this new chance at life you were given, you decided to harm others? Wanting to see the world burn?"

He crossed his arms over his chest and frowned, "I don't know whether to be angry at you, or to pity you."

"You know, this whole experience really changed me. I think I'll see more of the world now."

Sonic smiled, "That's the spirit"

"Did it ever occur to you to find something else to live for, to move on?" Knuckles said, clenching his fist.

Lara frowned, "Don't talk to him, he's too old and stubborn to think about it!"

They came to an open area where Finitevus stood. He began to laugh,"I suppose you're right. I am to stubborn. Though," He looked behind him at the beam of light from Angel Island,"Though, it's not like you can stop it now."

"Tell me, was alternate me the type to take that laying down, or was he the one who liked to prove you wrong?" Knuckles asked, punching his fist into an open palm.

"Honestly, he was pretty much the same as you." Finitevus said.

Lara looked at Knuckles, and then nodded to herself, pretty much...

"Good, then I think you know this going, don't you?" Knuckles said, stretching his arm. "Because quite frankly, my main goal is to beat you, and then see what help Sonic needs. Because if he's taught me anything, is that people like us? We stop it, permanently."

Finitevus chuckled,"Then come at me you two." He beckoned towards them.

Knuckles put his hands out, and looked back at Lara, "Try and keep up!"

Knuckles ran at Finitevus, leaped into the air, and slammed his fist into the open palm of the evil echidna, making a small crater erupt under them

Lara leaped behind him, punching Finitevus' other palm. The echidna slammed them both into the ground before leaping back. He put a warp ring into the air and punched through it, causing another warp ring to appear next to Knuckles and punch at him.

Knuckles ducked and punched the warp ring, "Nice try!"

Finitevus punched him.

Lara-Su went for a sweep kick as Knuckles blocked the incoming punch and then returned with a left hook.

Finitevus let out a grunt as the kick hit his shin. He grabbed the hook and did a right hook of his own.

Knuckles grabbed the hook and stood with Finitevus, grappling him. Getting behind Finitevus, Lara-Su went for a hook kick into Finitevus' face. His grapple broken, Knuckles went in quick with a series of jabs.

Finitevus frowned and did a spinning back punch at Knuckles, following it up with a hard hook into Lara's stomach. Before he followed it up with an uppercut, Lara spun out of the way and kicked the rouge echinda with three side kicks into his back.

Knuckles quickly followed it up with an uppercut.

Finitevus fell back, backflipping towards the edge before creating a ring beneath him to fall through. He appeared behind Knuckles to kick him.

Knuckles let out a grunt of pain as he was hit. This allowed Finitevus to deliver a quick series of punches into Knuckles, pushing him back. Then he uppercutted Knuckles off the edge.

Maneuvering quickly, Knuckles glided back to the edge to latch onto it and began to climb. Up above, he could hear Lara fighting back with the skill of a dancer as she delivered a series of high and low kicks at Finitevus

Finitevus grabbed Lara by the neck,"Child, you're a bit too young to be flying from the nest."

Lara let out a small gasp, "I'm sixteen ya bastard!"

"... That's still a child compared to me." Finitevus. said, before punching her in the gut.

Lara growled, trying to hold out against his grip. She let out a grunt of pain as she was punched, and another as she felt another strike. Before a third blow could be struck, Knuckles flew in from behind and struck Finitevus with both of his fist out.

This caused Finitevus to fall to the ground. He got up, frowning at them.

"You all right?" asked Knuckles, looking back at Lara.

Lara rubbed her neck, "I'm fine."

Black energy formed around Finitevus,"The problem with so much chaos energy is that it makes people like me far more powerful than you'd imagine." He walked towards them, clenching his fist.,

"I've had a pretty big imagination, trust me," Lara said, "I've seen the stories of Enerjak."

"I used Enerjak in one of my plans. Shame he fell," He ran towards her,"As will you!"

"I don't think so!" Knuckles said, punching him down with a chaos-charged punch.

Knuckles delivered another punch, his fur changing color, "You think you are powerful in your universe?"

Another punch, and again his fur began to brighten, turning from red to pink in a flash of light, "You think you have a right to make others suffer?"

"You are nothing more than a monster, a forgotten idea whose time has come," Knuckles said, delivering an uppercut, "You could've done anything, but you chose to do all of this!"

Another punch, and his body had become pink, light chaos energy flowing through him as he could feel his fists enveloped with flame, "Don't you think you could spend it cherishing this new lease, or is that impossible for weak willed beings like you."

Finitevus coughed as he landed on the ground,"Impressive... the excess chaos energy has caused you to temporarily access your Super form... " He got up and backed away towards the edge,"I suppose I am weak-willed... "He began to laugh,"But it's too late, the world will crumble in chaos!" He spread his arms wide,"My victory is assured!" He fell backward.

Knuckles took a step forward, wanting to save him. As he reached his hand out, Finitevus slapped it away. A smile formed on his face as he fell.

Sally walked through a forested area with Bunnie,"I should've asked this before, but you can fly, right?"

Bunnie shook her head," Sorry, sugah."

"Darn. Guess I'll have to figure something out-" Sally gasped as she dodged a kick from a hat-wearing lynx,"Crap, the Conquering Storm!"

Bunnie ran in front of Sally," Interestin' name."

The lynx in question stood up and turned to them, getting into a fighting stance.

"Go on ahead, Sally girl." Bunnie creaked her neck,"Ah got this."

Sally nodded,"Thanks!" She ran,"Be careful!"

Bunnie began to jump in place, loosening her "Don't suppose ya are willing to back down are ya?"

"I see no need, rabbit." Storm said, narrowing her eyes,"All that is important is breaking you in the name of Dr. Eggman.

"Oh, see, I'm doing that to give ya a chance to leave without any broken bones!" Bunnie said, before slamming with a right cross.

Storm ducked before rolling into some bushes,"Pretty cocky of you."

"Thanks, Sonic is a bad influence."

She appeared behind Bunnie and did a kick.

Bunnie ducked and did a back spin kick.

This sent Storm flying into a bush.

Bunny punched her fist into her knuckles, waiting for round two.

A smoke bomb hit the area.

Bunnie coughed and closed her eyes, trying to not get the smoke in her eyes.

Storm moved in with a punch to the gut.

Bunnie let out a grunt of pain as the punch came in hard, Growling, she used her metal arm to do a metal elbow into Storm's head. Seething through the pain, Storm made a quick heel-palm strike at her opponent's chin, following through with a quick backspin kick.

Bunnie, on reflex, went for a grab of her opponent's leg. Storm then spun around in a corkscrew to kick Bunnie in the face. As Bunnie hit the ground, she landed on her hands and kicked with a hard left into the chest.

Storm was sent to a tree and disappeared,"You're resilient, I'll give you that! But I have the shadows at my side."

"Oh, Do you really?" Bunnie asked getting back to her feet. she then roundhoused a tree

A shadow leaped from the tree,"You think you can knock me down? That I-" She let out a yelp as she kicked another tree.

Bunnie then grabbed a tree with her metal arm and nodded, "New batter!"

Storm blinked,"What."

Using the tree, Bunnie hit Storm with the full brunt of the tree.

Storm's eyes widened,"I should've taken on the badger-" she was sent flying.

Sally went forward until she stopped at a cliff over looking the floating island. In front of her was a vulture staring at her,"Nephthys." She frowned.

Nephthys held out a hand,"I'm not here as an enemy." She took off her mask to reveal a robotic face,"I'm here to help you,Sally."

Sally blinked,"Why?"

Nephthys put her hands down to her side,"... I have my reasons. You need to get up there and I want to help stop this mess."

Sally walked up to her,"... I feel like the frog to the scorpion, but I don't have any other options. Alright." She held out her hand.

Nephthys took it and began to fly her up towards the island.

Blaze walked through a ring portal, noticing the Master Emerald in the center,"The Sol Emeralds are there. If I can remove them-" At that point, a blue hedgehog landed next to her, holding his head,"Sonic?"

'Sonic' began to hold his head, quills slowly glowing gold,"Can't... hold on... chaos energy too much."

"You're not this Sonic!" Blaze gasped.

With a roar, Sonic turned into Super Sonic and began laughing madly,"Oh, finally!" He looked at the Master Emerald,"Hmm," He sped over to it,"What happens if I use this!?" He put a hand to it. He was then blown back, his body began turning many colors.

Blaze frowned, and then took a step, "Please, don't make me fight you. Let's leave and I can get you help."

A bright flash of light occurred as Super Sonic, now Hyper Sonic, began to laugh maniacally,"killkillkillkillkillkillkillkillkillkill" His eyes were completely bloodshot before he sped off, laughing all the way.

"Guess I have no choice," Blaze said, walking to the middle of the room and holding out her hand into the air. As if summoned by her to fulfill their long awaited purpose, the Sol Emeralds flew around her firing their beams of light into her body.

Resonating with the same light, the Master Emerald began to power her. Slowly her body began to change, and instead of her normal red color for her super mode, she became dark blue flame. The only bits of color were on her shoes.

Nova Blaze looked up and narrowed her eyes, taking off in a blaze of fire. As she neared Hyper Sonic, she drove her foot into his face, making him skip along the water and into the ground.

Hyper Sonic frothed at the mouth as he got up. He sped towards her, punching her in the face to send her flying across the island.

Turning into a blue fire tornado, Blaze flew right back at Hyper Sonic, roundhousing him in the chest. As he flew backwards, Blaze teleported behind him and then stuck him wit the back of her fist.

The sent Hyper flying into the air. He then did a spin dash towards her.

The spin dash struck her hard, sending her flying into the ground and creating a large crater. Seething through the pain, Blaze grabbed his head and began to born it by grappling it. She then kneed him in the stomach and sent him him flying back into the air.

Summoning fire balls, she threw a series of them at Hyper as se flew back upwards.

Hyper held out his hand, creating a force field by vibrating the molecules in the air, only for Blaze to break through it to punch him in the stomach.

From her punch into the stomach, she went into a rapid series of flame powered punches into the abdomen.

This sent Hyper flying off towards the mainland. He stopped in mid-air. He did another spin dash, summoning several balls of light in the air before firing them at her.

Blaze flew down, dodging the fire balls and throwing three of her own that missed Hyper. She then began to throw more and more, each fireball missing him.

Hyper sped up towards her, giving her a kick.

Blaze flew back, as Hyper Sonic cocked his head at her.

"Did I?" asked Blaze.

Hyper Sonic then looked around seeing the fireballs surrounding him. His eyes widened as he was then blasted wih all of the fireballs at once as the

Hyper began falling towards the edge of town, his color turning back to blue.

Blaze flew down, catching Hyper in her arms. Then she lowered him to the ground and wiped her brow.

A silver hedgehog panted as he landed,"... Wait, am I late?"

Blaze looked at Silver, and smiled warmly, "No, you're just in time to catch the princess."

"Catch the-" Silver paused as he used his tk to gently levitate Blaze into his arms. He smiled down at his princess and helped her to find someplace to rest.

Dr. Eggman watched as his forces were taken down one by one,"Well, can't say I didn't see this coming." At that point, the door opened,"Who-"

A red-haired woman in yellow smiled at him as she forced the doors open,"Eggy-weggy!" She yelled before tackling him.

Sage looked down at the two,"... Am I getting a new Mom?"

Sonic and Tails landed on Angel Island. They sped through until they stopped at the temple where Knuckles and Sonic had the fight before dealing with Eggman. There, Dr. Starline stood, staring at the mural,"Fascinating. Do you think this mural predicted your battle with Eggman, or with Chaos?"

Sonic began to slowly walk towards Starline. As he heard the question, he shrugged and shook his head, "I have no idea. I just always though it was about how cool you look when you are in a super form. Knuckles thinks it was Eggman."

"Hmph, of course you would think that." Starline looked at his wrist.

Tails frowned at him,"So this is your game? Using all these Chaos Emeralds to rend the multiverse asunder?"

"Once Fiona starts rewriting reality," Starline held up his hand,"I will use this to take over her mind and then have her change it to my very will." He smiled,"That's why I picked her to use them. Her mind was fragile. Weak. She always had a complex about betrayal and trust. I just had to use it to convince her to power herself up."

Tails blinked,"And you think this is going to work? What if that glove thing is ineffective!?"

Starline's eye twitched,"It will work. It has to!"

"Is this how you always do your plans? By working on assumptions and hoping for the best!?" Tails stomped his foot,"You're just hinging your plan on something that may not even work! How many times have you actually done something that actually worked!?"

Starline stared at Tails,"You know what? I think I was wrong when I made Kit to be simply a sidekick who bows to Surge's every whim. I should've made him more annoying like you are now. You, specifically have been a thorn in my side for too long!"

Tails frowned,"Hey, how come my evil counterpart's always wimpy!?"

Starline walked towards them, before another voice came in,"Whoa there, Doc."

Tails turned to the voice,"Aunt Sally!?"

Sally walked to him,"I think I heard enough to know just how nutty you are." She rubbed her wrist,"Go on ahead guys, I'll take care of him!"

Sonic blinked and nodded. Giving a thumbs up and a wink, he said, "You got. Just don't thrash him too badly. He died already and I think that just made him grumpier."

Sally smiled,"I'll keep that in mind!" She produced an energy shield as she blocked a kick from Starline.

Sally smiled as she pushed with her shield and then kicked at Starline, knocking him back, "Let's Do it to it."

Starline cocked his head,"God that is so cheesy!" He glowed blue and sped towards her.

Sally did a small wall run, allowing him to pas her by. Then she did a jump kick before slashing at his back with an energy blade.

"GAh!" Starline glowed red before doing a back kick at her.

Sally did a sidestep block and went for a punch into the back.

Starline grunted in pain, before glowing yellow and leaping up to do a diving kick at her.

The kick made its mark, knocking Sally back. When Starline made for another punch, Sally blocked it with her enegy shield and pushed him back. she then spun around to slash Dr. Starline twice

Starline panted as he backed away, the slashes cut into his shirt, revealing the Tri-Core in his chest.

"Oh," Sally smiled, "Is that important?"

Starline looked down at it before looking back at her,"Well, no point in lying." He glowed blue and sped towards her.

Sally did a slide, attempting to slash at the tri-core.

Starline glowed yellow and leaped over her,"I won't let you!" Then his core began to slowly dim.

Sally blinked, and made a slash for his leg before running to a wall, running up and hen doing a jump kick at his head.

This sent Starline falling to the floor. He flipped up and attempted to glow for a bit, before fizzing out, his core going black,"Oh no."

"Performance issues?" asked Sally.

Starline frowned,"It seems I should've improved the battery... fine then." He pulled out a switch.

Starline began chuckling a little,"You see, I was rebuilt via Legionization... which puts a little bomb in me. However, I decided to rewire it so I could control my own Self-Destruct switch!"

"What?" Sally asked with a gasp.

Starline laughed maniacally,"Time to commit Regicide!" He pressed the button.

Sally let out a gasp, and crouched down, hoping her shield could tank most of the blast.

Starline's body glowed before detonating into a large explosion that came over Sally's shield, leaving nothing but a shadow on the ground.

Sally deactivated her shield and looked down,before whispering, "I'm sorry."

Sonic and Tails soon found themselves near the Master Emerald. A beam was shooting out from it. Along the beam were several Chaos Emeralds circling it.

Sonic walked slowly towards the master emerald, looking out for Fiona or anyone nearby. Then he crossed his arms, "Well?" he asked, tapping his foot.

Tails looked up,"Maybe she's in the sky?"

"Do you think she's that obvious?" Sonic asked.

"I mean, it just seems to be the best place for an awesome final battle." Tails said.

"True true," Sonic said, holding his hand out for Tails to help fly him up

Tails flew Sonic up to the Master Emerald.

Sonic kept an eye out for the opponent as e flew up. Then he let go and landed on top of te master emerald.

Tails let out a breath as he landed on the Master Emerald

Tails closed his eyes as the chaos energy began to fill them.

Sonic smirked as he continued to do what he did best, run. He could feel the energy flow through him, a normal kind of energy for him, warm and comforting. Something that he had gotten used to by now as he could feel it turn him a bright gold. Smirking, he looked back at his little brother, watching the energy turn him a similar hue. True, he could handle anything alone, but with his best brother at his side, it felt a little more... complete. As they neared the end of the tunnel, their bodies began to change into a different form.

For Sonic, his quills rose up as his fur color began to change from blue to red to green to blue to white and then back to gold. His speed had begun to increase that it seemed that there were four of him as he moved. As Tails flew, he felt as if four little birds began to join with him, helping him as he would help sonic.

There was a bright flash of light as they both shot up into the atmosphere, where a white fox floated.

"You can make this easier on yourself and just quit," Sonic said. "Destroying the whole multiverse just because of a broken heart is a little extreme."

"It's more than just a broken heart. It's how people have treated me for a long time." Fiona said, turning to them,"I have learned to never trust anyone because they have never trusted me! I never had a place to belong, ever!" She looked at Tails,"Oh, are you going to fight me now? Are you sure you want to?"

"Eh, Zooey's cuter." Tails scoffed.

"I've found that a long time ago that people with hard heads tend to only listen after you kick their butts. Actually," Sonic flicked his nose, "I think only Amy I didn't need to kick the butt of to make her see the light."

"Well, there was Cream," Tails said, crossing his arms and nodding.

"Right, so butt kicking or saving is usually the way to redeem a person," Sonic mocked and then fist bumped Tails. "But yeah, I get it. You have been hurt and broken, you trusted and you want to rage out against the world because you think it'll make it stop hurting. But it wont. It'll just cause more suffering, and in the end, you'll be alone, is that what you want?"

Fiona snarled,"Don't lecture me!" She screamed, speeding towards them.

Sonic and Tails high fived each other and flew off, leaving a sonic boom in their wake. Sonic spun around in mid air to to do a driving kick into Fiona's stomach. Spinning around in midair, he delivered an uppercut into her face. Fiona backhanded Hyper sonic, sending him flying back. As she prepared a blast of magic, three flickies struck her from the side.

Tails flew in and had one of the flickies help out Sonic before flying back to deliver a double punch into her chest and sending her flying into one of te portals.

They went through the portal, Fiona slamming into the ground like a rubber band before bouncing back up. She spun around around, kicking at Tails who did a dodge before kicking her in the side.

Hyper Sonic flew down around Fiona, moving fast enough to create a tornado to make her spin like a top. She growled and tried to throw a punch, which Sonic quickly ducked. Then he grabbed his fist, twisted it like a top, and then unleashed it like a coiled top, making her spin around in a circle towards Tails who batted her with his tails.

She went through another portal into a desolate robotic city. She landed on the ground as Hyper Sonic and Hyper Tails landed themselves. The two brothers pulled out power rings, charging up for two spindashes that slammed into Fiona's fists

Fiona winced as the two spindashes collided with her fists, erupting with a large sound of thunder. She slammed one of the spindashes into the ground while throwing the other away. Tails bounced back from being slammed into the ground with a rapid strike into her chin.

Hyper Sonic flew down along the side of the building, only to fly back up in a white lighting bolt, corkscrewing up along the building. Once he reached the top of the building, he drove a kick into Fiona's backside. Pulling one leg back, he rammed his other leg in a quick kick. Using his quick pace, he began to bicycle her in he back to knock her through several buildings.

Turning around, she wiped a trickle of blood from her lip and flew at Sonic inside of the building and delivered a punch. Sonic blocked it and struck with one of his own. Striking and countering, the two fighters began to fight their way up through the building until they broke out through the roof.

While he building collapsed beneath them, Tails flew in with his birds to push her away. He then began to whirwind kick her ard in the chest and stomach, pushing her back before he did a powerful uppercut into her face.

This sent her through another portal. This time, they landed on what looked to be Angel Island. She produced a glowing guitar and did a riff, sending sound waves at them.

The shock waves knocked them both back and into the ground. As she began to play her riff harder and faster, Sonic and Tails created twin guitars out of chaos magic and began to play a loud and powerful riff of their own

POWER TO THE PEOPLE!

POWER TO THE DREAM!

POWER TO THE UNIVERSE!

POWER TO THE MUSIC!

Fiona let out a yell as the music pushed her back, taking her through a portal. This time in a version of the Chemical Plant Zone. Sonic and Tails landed, before Fiona summoned several balls of light to strike at them. Sonic vibrated the air in front of him while Tails used flickies to deflect them.

Fiona growled and sent a shock wave by crossing her arms and knocking the two boys back. She flew down and grabbed Sonic by the neck,dragging him across the poisoned water and creating a crest of a wake. Behind her, she winced as Tails had his flickies strike her back in a rapid fire manner.

Usinging this moment to break her grip, Sonic kicked her hard with both legs. As she flew into the air, Sonic flew up to strike at her with rapid strikes as a spin dash. Taking a moment to recover, Fiona whipped at Sonic with her tail to knock him deep into the water. Tails flew at her, his fist colliding with hers to create a massive shock wave.

Sonic flew back from the water, making a water spout as he left. Flying up to her height, Sonic struck out with his own fist. Moving faster than light, the three struck and blocked their opposite attacks at various points in the sky, causing shock waves with their blocks that destroyed parts of the plant. However, it was not long before Sonic and Tails manged to score a punch hard into her gut, following with an uppercut, and then a spin kick to knock her through another portal and into a building.

Fiona got up through the building, which appeared to be tropical in nature. She flew up into the air and flew towards the two with a kick.

Sonic moved quick enough to allow Fiona to kick through one of his after images. He then flew back to punch down at her hand, making a powerful shock wave. The two then began to block and strike back at each other in a rapid exchange. He then made for a roundhouse into her head.

This sent her flying back into a portal through space.

Tails conjured up a large cannon to fire Sonic through.

Six orbs of multicolored light followed Sonic as he flew out of the cannon. Moving fast enough to crack with the sound of thunder, he sturk her hard. Turning around in space, he snapped his fingers and the six orbs struck her. As each struck her, each orb exploded with the power of a small explosion, making her feel as if a Tails from each dimension he visited punched her hard.

Fiona moaned,"Oh, that's what Karma feels like..." She flew through another portal, this time landing in a huge city.

Sonic and Tails flew in after, landing on the ground and causing a huge crater to appear beneath them

She flew towards them, summoning several ring portals on the way.

Sonic and Tails flew faster towards her, speeding up. Each one teleporting in between the portals to strike her rapidly while Fiona tried to block each hit.

This resulted in several shock waves going through the air, sending cars flying and windows shattering. Eventually, she was punched through another portal.

This time, it was a world similar to Tails' own. She landed near a city covered by a dome. On the other side, near a river, Tails and Sonic began revving up. Fiona braced herself as they sped towards her for a single punch, shattering the world behind her back into the space above Sonic's world. She panted, energy leaving her body.

Sonic looked back at Tails and gave him a high five

As Fiona began to fall, she was caught in the arms of a green blur, "Hey, hey babe," Scourge said, looking at her, "Speak to m-"

Fiona cut him off with a slap, and growled. She looked to Sonic and Tails and frowned, "So this is it then? This is where you gloat over your win with the big speech about being the heroes. Congratulating yourselves because of the power of brotherhood and friendship. And meanwhile, I get put on the shelf somewhere where I'll just meet someone who'll betray me!"

"No, that's not how it always goes," Sonic said, stepping forward, "We just-"

"Just nothing! We know how he feels," Fiona yelled, glaring at Tails and falling to her knees, "I'm not a person, just an object to be forgotten about and treated as a villain. That's been my life so far! Betrayed and treated as the worse thing on he whole damn mult-"

Scourge interrupted her with a kiss, and then took her and, "Babe, I've only got enough niceness in me for this one moment, so let me say this. I'm... sorry. Ok, there! I'm sorry for hurting you without thinking, without caring about your past. I'm evil! I come from an evil dimension where the good guys lose and the assholes win. I'm surprised that we don't do the old "Good is bad and we eat rotten food" stereotype when it comes to villains. I'm so one note that if I didn't change into this handsome green boy you see before you that I would still be called evil/bad/dark/insert cliche name here Sonic. So I do things because I don't care about being nice."

"That is..." Scourge looked down, sighing "Until I met you. For some damn reason, you stayed with me even though my sally, Amy, Tails, and all of his friends abandoned me. I... I guess we're in the same boat."

"You were always betrayed, and I couldn't get a person to be loyal to me if I tried," Scourge said, looking down, "Even though they should be loyal. And I guess,I was just waiting...no I was expecting you to be just like the others. But for some odd reason, you're different. You kick people when they're down, we laugh at the same horrible things, we do bad things together, and in the end, you stay by me."

Fiona stood up, and found her tear being wiped away by Scourge, "I-"

"Look, I...I know its hard for you to trust. I get it. I get that I'm not exactly the most trust worthy bad boy out there! I know I'm evil, but..." Scourge grumbled, looking over his shoulder at Sonic, "God I'm glad it's not my Sonic. He's gotta be smirking I just want to let you know, you help me be a little less evil and, show that I don't have to be in a funk all of he time. And maybe- I can be that to yo-"

Fiona slapped him, and then smiled, tears in her eyes, "You are a rotten asshole. A bastard, but, you're mine. And if you ever, ever flirt with a bitch like that again!"

"You can put my balls in a vice, scratch my groin, and make me scream," Scourge laughed before bending her over and kissing her deeply, rubbing his hand along her back.

Sonic sighed, "You know Tails, it's almost a shame we gotta beat them up and put them away."

Tails looked at Scourge,"Yeah, it's almost a shame..."

"Doesn't mean we aren't going to enjoy it," Sonic said, and then looked at Tails, "Unless you want to give them a head start?"

Tails looked at them, "Do you want a chance to run first?"

"Try and catch up," Scourge said, picking Fiona up bridal style.

Tails looked at Sonic,"Do we have to? It might be better if we fix everything here first."

"Well of course," Sonic said, turning away, "It's not like they can get away that fast."

Tails nodded as he held up a hand along with Sonic,

CHAOS CONTROL!"

Shard began to glow,"Well, looks like I'm going."

Belle looked up at him,"Do you have to?"

Shard ruffled her hair,"Hey, it's okay. Just know that there are others like you hopping around the multiverse." He looked at Gemerl, and gave him a thumbs up, Gemerl did so in turn.

Sally looked out as she began to glow, and smiled.

Lara-Su watched herself glow, before looking at Knuckles and giving him a hug.

Knuckles returned the hug, "I don't know if there are others like you out there...but I'm glad I me you."

"Me too... Dad..." Lara disappeared.

The other Sonic moaned as he got up,"I... I didn't hurt anyone, did I?"

Silver, sitting next to a sleeping Blaze, held his glowing hand towards him,"No? Only you got hurt."

"That's good." He frowned at him,"Don't point that at me!"

"Sonic?" A rabbit man came by,"You okay?"

"OF course I-" Sonic stopped,"Johnny Lightfoot?"

Johnny gasped,"You know my name!?"

Sonic regained his composure and rubbed his nose,"OF course, I know that you're a good friend. If you'll excuse me, I gotta juice." He saw his hand glow before he sped off."

Blaze let out a purr, "Need kitty cuddles"

Sonia and Manic nodded, watching themselves starting to glow, "Time to go home, right?" Sonia said.

"Hey, chances are we'll either see each other again in Quantum Fox 2: The quest for more money." Sticks siad.

Manic looked at Sonia, "I'l even miss her."

Tails fell to the ground, before slowly stirring.

Sonic found a place to let Tails rest, letting him sleep it off. Smiling, he put a mint covered chili dog in front of him, "Enjoy your nap little bro?"

Tails got up, and took the chili dog in hand,"Sonic... The Tornado didn't get destroyed again, right!?"

Tails woke up noticing that he was back in his workshop. At home. In Mobotropolis,"I'm home..." He laughed,"I'm home again!" He then eyed a small ray gun in the corner,"That wasn't there before." He took a note that was laying on the table,

"Hi,

We all, or rather, most of us, decided to help you on your journey. Each one of us decided to try and make something that might fix Sally. We all contributed to this one device. Put it to good use!"

Tails gasped,"They all contributed!?"

Ps. Of course. We Tails have got to stick together, right?

Tails nodded. At that moment, a door behind him broke down,"Nicole? Please tell me that's not Mecha Sally breaking out of her cage." He let out a yelp as Mecha Sally swiped at him from behind,"Yipe!" He gasped as the robot loomed over him. He aimed the gun and fired closing his eyes.

There was a moment of silence, as Tails held his breath. Then a pair of warm arms wrapped around his shoulders and pulled him in for a hug.

Tails smiled,"Aunt Sally..." Then he fell unconscious.

Searching for a way to save his sally from robotization, Tails went through a journey to find a way in a journey that took him across dimensions. Then, with one final leap...

He went home.

Sonic Boom

Sonic bounced a chaos emerald in his hand, "So, you went n a world saving adventure, and left us behind?"

"Well yeah, it would've gotten crowded otherwise. Too many characters!" Sticks said. "And besides, three years? They needed a little break. Now, about those mobile suits!" she said, running off.

Tails shook his head, and giggled. Then he looked up to see a female fox running his way and waved to her.

Sonic X

Sonic sped along his world, taking in the air. Smiling, he raced back to Tails home and nodded, seeing Tails and Cosmo sitting together in their room, reading together on the couch. Next to him, a journal was open that read "Thanks other me, for saving her

Sonic the Comic

Sonic put some flowers onto a grave of a rabbit, and let out a small smile before speeding off

Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog

Scratch and Grounder laid on the ground, busted. In the distance, Sonic ran off with Tails flying right behind him, "You know, one of these days, they'll learn."

"But then it'll be boring, right!?" Tails said with a laugh.

"So Sayz Sonic!" Sonic said with a bigger laugh, eating a chili dog

Sonic Underground

Sonic strummed his guitar while on top of the building where his last battle with his family took place. In a flash of light, his two siblings appeared and he began to rock along with them.

Down below, Robotnik in a cloak began to type out, "Victory, Project Shadow"

Sonic Movies

Sonic stood with a phone to his ear, "No, Tom, Maddie its fine. Everything is fine. Uh, what's that? Alien attack? Nah you just cwazy. Me and Tails and Knuckles are just sitting here watching our favorite sci-fi films. You two enjoy your second honeymoon. Yeah, yeah, love ya too."

"Soon,this thing will be broken!" Knuckles said, reading a punch.

"Please Knuckles, leave something for me to fix!" Tails shouted

SATAM

Tails jumped up and down on te bed, "But that world wa so cool! I was super smart, and I had a lot of tools, and Nicole could turn into a lynx and-"

"You can tell me more about it later, Tails," Sally said, tucking Tails in and nuzzling him, making him laugh, "Right now, it's time for good little kits to go to bed."

"Ok, Aunt Sally," Tails said, smiling and then yawning.

Sally stepped out and looked at the night sky. NExt to her, Antoine slept on Bunnie's shoulder. Bunnie turned to her, "In case you're wondering. He's racing with his brother."

"The village now has two speed demons, and we still don't know what happened to Robotnik after the explosion. How will I ever manage," Sally said, shaking her head.

"One day at a time, right?"

She nodded, and then took a step back as a black abd blue blur passed by, "HA! See, beat ya!" Sonic siad.

Shadow frowned, "You started .02 seconds early, I demand a rematch."

Sonic IDW:

Sonic laid on the ground, lightly playing with his nose, "Man, what a day yesterday was. Still, a great way to end a friday. Eh, maybe I'll take a vacation somewhere."

"Sonic!" Tails said, flying towards Sonic, "Robotnik's-"

"Don't tell me, up to a problem again? Well, want to see how fast we can beat him this time?" Sonic said, getting up and getting ready to run.

"You know it!" Tails said with a laugh

Multiverse

Zonic sighed, "Couldn't get Starline, but on the other hand. I got me two love birds. All in all, a good day."

Scourge, holding Fiona close, sighed and saif, "We'll break out...tomorrow."

"Yeah, tomorrow, baby." and with that, she kissed him.

A hologram of a lynx appeared before Zonic,"Sorry I got Tails instead of Sonic. But it looks like everything worked out in the end." Zicole said,"Even if I had to do a little pushing myself.

"No no, I think it worked out well in the end. I think the Sonics would've been too cocky. But did you hav o be too crptic?"

"Hey, I was having trouble trying to figure out what Tails needed to do, okay!?"

Zonic rolled his eyes and nodded, "Still, I hope their little pocet world is going to be happy with this."

Tails smiled as he looked over the pond,"Every Sonic is different. My little adventure taught me that. Some can be silly, some can be serious, but they all have some aspect of who Sonic is. There's something to like about each of them. That's the best part of him." He sighed,"I guess that also includes me."

At that point, Eggman's voice spoke,"Behold, citizens of Mobius, the Grand Opening of Eggmanland!"

Tails's eyes looked up, seeing an ad for the amusement park,"Time to get to work!"

The End.

Off-Topic:

BOD:

Tails frowned as he watched Sonic go up and down,"I don't believe this... the multiverse is going to end. Why?" He looked at the red and white striped barrel that Sonic was standing on and shouted,"All because of a stupid barrel!"

Harem Ending:

Tails smiled as he opened the door, only to see Cosmo, Zooey, Fiona, Cream, Moraine, and Mina glaring at him while holding mints,"Uh..."

Cosmo was in tears,"You... you said you loved me... then why did I see another girl with you? I got these all for you!"

Fiona frowned,"What, I'm not good enough for you?"

Cream pouted,"I wanted to have fun with you at the park, but you didn't come!"

Moraine opted to sharpen her sword.

Zooey looked away,"I thought we had something, but it was all a lie, wasn't it?"

Mina glared,"So, what do you have to say for yourself!?"

Tails looked at all of them, before sighing,"I want the mints..."

A few minutes later, Sonic walked in, looking Tails' beaten body on the floor,"Hey Tails, Sally gave me this wicked ring for my birthday!" He showed off his ring,"Gotta go!" He sped off.

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Millersarmy501, Cartoonatic24, TheInfamousMan, LancetheFox, Sunnylighter, sunscares, and Darkdragonknight as well as 10 guests left kudos on this work!

Comments

Sunnylighter on Chapter 1 Thu 14 Jul 2022 07:34PM UTC

This is awesome

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TheInfamousMan on Chapter 3 Sun 08 Jan 2023 01:18AM UTC

Okay, have to say I like this fic so far and especially how you try to make Tails and co fit into the tone of the Zone they are in. However I especially love how you don’t try to dismiss any of the series as ‘Not Sonic’. The Sonics of Boom and Adventures are just as valid as the Archie and game ones. They aren’t lesser just because they don’t take things as seriously or are silly.
Keep up the good work.

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1. RickHammersteel on Chapter 3 Sun 08 Jan 2023 03:05AM UTC
  
  Thanks for this!
  I'm trying my best to make sure all zones are represented well. The next chapter's gonna be hard for me as it focuses on Sonic the Comic, which is kind of my least favorite continuity. But I will try my best to do it justice!
  
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Guest (Guest) on Chapter 7 Wed 15 Jan 2025 02:30PM UTC

Just finished catching up with this fic. Been a fun ride with Tails getting to visit different worlds. And all the songs in these past three chapters have been really fun.
So, we’ve had Archie, Boom, X, Adventures, Fleetway, Underground so far, and Movie’s next. Just curious, what other universes are you planning to do? Still have SaTAM, Manga, Games, IDW and Prime I think (assuming the last three aren’t considered the same world), unless you also treat the Archie world post-SGW different from pre. If it’s going to be a surprise though, happy to wait.
Thanks for writing this!

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Quantum Fox

RickHammersteel

Summary:

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Chapter 1: Boom

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Chapter 2: X

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Chapter 3: Adventures

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Chapter 4: Fleetway

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Chapter 5: Underground Part 1

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Chapter 6: Underground Part 2

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Chapter 7: Underground Part 3

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Chapter 8: Movie

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Chapter 9: SATam

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Chapter 10: IDW

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Chapter 11: Multiverse

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Sunnylighter on Chapter 1 Thu 14 Jul 2022 07:34PM UTC

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TheInfamousMan on Chapter 3 Sun 08 Jan 2023 01:18AM UTC

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RickHammersteel on Chapter 3 Sun 08 Jan 2023 03:05AM UTC

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Guest (Guest) on Chapter 7 Wed 15 Jan 2025 02:30PM UTC

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