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Chapter Text

“I can't believe this!” Dr. Eggman threw his wrench across the room where it ricocheted off the wall and hit Cubot in the side of the head. The evil genius groaned, resting his head against the workbench before him. “Honestly, that meddlesome rodent has no appreciation for fine engineering!”

The weak beep in response and the shaking thumbs-up directed at him only made Eggman feel worse. Metal Sonic laid there in literal pieces, scuffs and scratches and burns marring his intact limbs and blue coat. The most recent battle against his archnemesis had not gone according to plan. In fact, it ended in disaster—a Chaos-energy-fueled explosive disaster, to be precise. Had it not been for Metal's quick action, Eggman would've earned some third degree burns at the least and it would've taken years for his magnificent ‘stache to grow back. Unfortunately for his greatest creation—one of his finest alongside his precious daughter Sage—Metal took the brunt of the blast to protect his master and paid the price for it. The intense heat from the explosion had melted half of his limbs, damaged his circuitry, and even cracked the protective shell of his power core. All of which Eggman was currently—painstakingly—trying to fix.

When had this tool of war that looked just like his nemesis become so dear to him? When did he start to care more about Metal coming back to him in one piece instead of being angry that he failed at his programmed directive again? When did he begin to look at this machine as if it were his own flesh and blood? Ironically, it all stemmed from the incident when Metal betrayed him. Metal had always been a unique creation ever since he found it wandering Little Planet when Eggman had been using the Time Stones for his latest scheme at the time. Assuming the bot had been a creation of his from the far future, he gleefully began ordering Metal around and was delighted to find out that its primary directive was “serve Robotnik.” Manually adding in the secondary directive of “destroy Sonic the Hedgehog” had been where things got hairy. Metal had a personality despite being a robot and it seemed almost too eager to show how superior it was to the blue rodent it was based on. Countless failures had resulted from those fights, Eggman no doubt stoking the flames of hatred from his own callous remarks about how useless Metal was at fulfilling his directive. When Metal had rebuilt his own body and took over Eggman's army of robots single-handedly, he couldn't help but feel proud of Metal for its ingenuity and drive. There was something special about Metal and it took being a prisoner in his own base to finally figure it out. Despite all common sense, Metal Sonic had a heart and a mind of its own—despite being made of metal and wires. It was not an it, but a he. Perhaps it was from being based on Sonic's unique biodata, but he felt emotions just as much as an organic being. Sure, some parts of him could be regulated and tampered with to suit Eggman's needs, but overall Metal was the most lifelike robot in existence. Even when taken apart, his database and internal wiring were so close to a living being's central nervous system that it was scary. Eggman truly was a genius to be able to create something so marvelous as Metal, whatever time the bot was created in.

The mess with Metal Madness had made Eggman wary, so he ended up storing away the memory files and data of that time so the robot would be more loyal to him in the future. Arguably, he should have deleted them; but the Neo Metal Sonic design and the powers copied to it were such an amazing feat that Metal came up with on his own that Eggman figured he'd find a use for them again at some point. Better to have another Metal Madness aimed just at Sonic next time. Nowadays, Metal was the perfect soldier and servant. He always listened to Eggman's orders and fulfilled them to the best of his ability, even to his own detriment. After putting the poor thing back together so many times after countless fights with Sonic, Eggman began to feel an attachment to the caricature of his nemesis. Especially when Metal gave him those sad, puppy-dog eyes with those red optics whenever he failed. Those somehow made Eggman melt into a puddle of goo and he could only gruffly reply that Metal would succeed next time and, by the name of Chaos, Eggman would make sure of it next time.

Well, at least Metal successfully prepared him emotionally when Sage was created. That girl was his pride and joy. An absolute masterpiece. If anything happened to Sage, the world would burn and his Eggman Empire created atop the ashes would be dedicated to her.

Eggman gently pried apart the shell surrounding Metal's power core. In all the time Metal had been working for Eggman, not once had the central power core needed replacing. It was like Metal never ran out of energy, which suited Eggman just fine because it meant less time trying to figure out the best way to recharge such a sophisticated machine. This would be his first time seeing what exactly powered his greatest weapon. Previous scans had never concretely deduced what the power core even was. Curiosity was at an all-time high, but his careful movements never faltered. Even if Metal was not capable of feeling pain, he did not want to cause the already-damaged machine any discomfort or further trauma. A screwdriver gently pried open the crack, opening it up so its contents could be revealed. What was inside made Eggman scratch his head as confusion mixed with wonder overcame him. He expected some new element-powered or solar-powered rechargeable battery with extreme longevity. What was inside was a simple charm. A medallion in the shape of a guitar which was connected to the heart-shaped battery that was powering Metal. That little thing was sparking even now, providing continuous power to what was basically Metal's heart. This entire time, for nearly five or six years, that charm had been powering Metal Sonic's strongest functions without fail. It seemed magical in nature in that respect. The only thing comparable that could provide unlimited energy like this was a Chaos Emerald.

“Sage?”

Sage materialized before her creator, a smile on her face. “I have already begun analyzing the energy readings, Father.”

“Good girl!” See? This was why she was his pride and joy. Already beginning to look into the unknown with wonder and curiosity, seeing if it could be useful for the creation of the Eggman Empire. Just like her fath—creator! “Nothing looks to be damaged, but I'd rather you double-check. If everything is functioning, it should be an easy fix of welding the outer shell back together.”

“Sensors indicate energy readings from Big Brother's power core are stable,” Sage explained. “However, it is an unknown power source. It is not comparable to any magic reading recorded in the EggNet's database. The wave pattern is that of sound, but is physically manifested by the conduit as magical energy.”

“Wait. So it's creating a whole new type of magical energy from sound waves?”

“Affirmative. The conduit appears to react based on the intensity of the waves. Greater intent and force leads to a stronger reaction, therefore increasing the energy output but draining the stored power within at a rapid rate.”

“I am a genius!” Eggman declared. “Metal’s entire body would generate constant sounds, leading to a never-ending supply of power! That's in addition to the everyday noise our world is capable of creating. Although, I can't help but wonder where my future self obtained such a trinket.”

“Further testing would be required to study the properties of the conduit.”

Eggman's mustache drooped. He eyed Metal, who was watching him patiently. Not a hint of worry. Complete trust shining in those red optics. “That won't be necessary.”

“Are you certain, Father? It could prove beneficial to the Empire—”

“I am aware that studying this new magical energy could lead to scientific breakthroughs and upgraded weapons. But doing so would rob Metal of his main power source. And that blasted blue hedgehog has a habit of dropping in unannounced at the worst possible times. I'd rather not chance Metal being defenseless when such a time comes.”

Sage giggled as Metal beeped a few times. “Big Brother is thankful for your concern.”

Eggman grumbled, running a hand across a sleek blue spike on the chassis. “…No thanks needed. It's only logical. You're the only one of my creations who can face Sonic on equal ground.”

A cold set of fingers wrapped around Eggman's hand, squeezing it lightly. I'll do better next time, I promise. I'll make you proud. Please keep believing in me. Metal had no voice, but he said so much from such small gestures. Eggman turned his head away, fighting against the smile that wanted to spread across his face. His boy—no, his creation had come so far. No matter how many setbacks he encountered, no matter how many times he lost, Metal kept coming back stronger and more determined each time he faced his organic counterpart. That determination was infectious—almost as bad as Sonic's when his pesky friends channeled a bit of it in their fights against Eggman. It served to encourage Eggman even when his own plans fell to pieces as a result of that spiky rodent.

“If this…medallion of some sort can convert sound into power…” A grin formed. “Could the reverse be true? Sound-based attacks could lead to all sorts of possibilities.”

“Ya mean Big Bro can start his own side gig?” Eggman smacked Cubot for the dumb comment, but it did nothing to deter the little helper's enthusiasm. “That'd be great for morale!”

“And a possible income source for more resources, if we're careful about it. He could put the ‘tech’ back in techno!” Orbot added in, a little more sensible than his cube-shaped brother. “And it'd be one more thing Big Bro would be able to call his own.”

“Yeah, I betcha that Sonic is tone deaf anyway.”

Eggman groaned, rubbing his temple to prevent an oncoming headache. “I never programmed any musical talent into Metal, you idiots! What use does a mechanical menace to society have for music?”

Another squeeze on his hand stopped Eggman in place. He turned back to Metal, seeing a spark behind the visor where his electrical eyes shone with fervor. More beeps sounded out, which Sage translated. “If it helps you—even a little—to defeat my copy, Doctor, I want to try.”

Eggman sighed, his resolve crumbling before those red optics the longer he looked at them. “Alright, fine. But let's put you back together first before we even entertain that idea.”

Metal let go to place a hand over his facsimile heart, gaze steady and sure. “As you wish, Doc—”

The moment Metal made contact with the medallion, a stream of energy shot forth from it. Waves of blue electricity jolted the machine, sparks flying off of his broken limbs and body. Sage had to fly back, the energy interference causing her form to fizzle in and out. Orbot and Cubot ducked for cover, hiding behind boxes of spare parts and tools. Eggman held down the convulsing robot, hoping to prevent Metal from falling off of the workbench and crashing to the floor. All too quickly the magic energy vanished, leaving Metal's eyes distorted and flickering. His one working hand twitched unnaturally as his internal systems forced themselves to reboot.

“Sage! Diagnostic scan, now!”

“Yes, sir!” She quickly searched through Metal's system, eyeing every tiny detail and noting it down. Seconds ticked by far too slowly for Eggman as Sage analyzed the data. She let out a relieved sigh, which Eggman soon mirrored. “Diagnostic scan complete. No damage was sustained during the overload. All internal functions are stable and performing as intended.”

“Thank Chaos…”

There was a whirring noise coming from Metal, his arm slowly rising as it went to hold his cranium. “He is saying his head hurts and asking what happened.”

“It…hurts? That's not possible.” Eggman pulled away to get a closer look at Metal. “Sage, you're certain nothing was damaged?”

“Affirmative.” Metal's eyes finally focused, staying in one place as they blinked at Eggman. He made some sort of confused warble and Sage seemed to share in his confusion. “Robuttnik? You mean Father? He has always looked this way. You can clearly see this. Any issues with your visual scanners would have been detected and they are functioning properly.”

Metal jerked at Sage's voice, dilated eyes darting to her and then around him. He scrambled away from Eggman, yanking his arm away from the doctor's grasp. In his haste to get away, he fell to the floor with an almighty clang that even Orbot and Cubot could practically feel the impact on their servos. That noise seemed to make the panic worse as Metal brought both of his arms before his face and he let out a high-pitched screech before trying to put as much distance between him and Eggman. The crawl was pitiful, but quick, even with a mangled half-arm. Thoroughly worried now, Eggman decided to stay in place. He didn't want Metal to damage himself more during whatever malfunction he was experiencing. He nodded to Sage, trusting his daughter would be able to calm the frenzied robot.

“Big Brother, you must desist—” Metal screeched at her, baring his claws on his only intact arm in defense. Sage blinked, calmly hovering closer to him. “That is…unfortunate to hear. Have I done something to offend you?”

Metal whined, curling up on himself.

“Inefficient data. Please explain. Why am I no longer your sister?”

Eggman gaped. Metal had said Sage wasn't his sister? Since the day Eggman brought her home, Metal and Sage had gotten along like a well-oiled machine. What could have caused this sudden shift? Were his memory banks damaged? But Sage had stated there was no damage—none that she could physically see, at least.

“You…already have a sister? Sonia?” Sage was genuinely perplexed. “Who is Sonia?”

A hiss.

“Logging name for future analysis. Tell me how I can assist with whatever malfunction you are experiencing.”

Another screech.

“You are not malfunctioning?”

Yet again.

“You are…not a robot?” Sage's expression grew stern. “You are…Sonic? You are real?”

Well at least that part of his programming was still working from the sounds of things, Eggman thought.

“That is exactly what your biodata should be telling you. You are a mechanical copy of Sonic the Hedgehog.”

An ear-piercing wail echoed off the walls as Metal curled up on himself, sparks of that same blue energy causing him to jerk and twitch in place. And just as quickly as the anomaly came, like before, Metal slumped against the floor. Red optics were steady again. He straightened up, blinking as if he had just woken up after an upgrade. Sage looked even more perplexed as Metal beeped at her.

“A minor disturbance occurred with your power core, Big Brother. Do not be alarmed,” she told her sibling. “I will inform Father about the results.” Metal nodded, looking to his creator and blinking again at Eggman's tense posture. Sage hovered over to her creator, worry clearly shining in her eyes. “Father, I have…disturbing information to relay about Big Brother's strange actions.”

“Don't sugarcoat it, Sage,” Eggman declared. “Tell me what happened.”

“Emotions beyond what Big Brother should be capable of processing surged through him. He spoke as if he were alive. He was panicking. Afraid. Angry. Among his ramblings, I picked out key words that should mean nothing to his database and primary directives, yet he seemed to place a lot of importance on them. The name of a supposed sister: Sonia. The mention of a mother and an Uncle Chuck. Saying he can't be roboticized because it means he failed. Because it means Mobius's hope has died. He referred to you with as much hatred as Sonic would when you push your blue archnemesis too far,” Sage explained. “Quick searches through the EggNet do not pull up anything of note except for the term roboticization: the process of turning organic beings into machines.”

Eggman was silent, a grim expression on his face as he looked at his now-obedient son—no, his slave. “He…thought he was roboticized?”

“By my calculations, that is exactly what he believed.”

Metal merely sat there in silence, an icy chill going down Eggman's spine the longer he looked at the robot. Things suddenly made a lot more sense and Eggman wasn't sure how he felt about it. The eerie likeness to his namesake. The uncanny resemblance of inner parts when compared to organs. A robot that felt and understood emotions as keenly as his living,  breathing counterpart.

Time and space were vast. He had found Metal after messing with the Time Stones. Was Metal Sonic…actually Sonic? A Sonic from a different time or dimension? A Sonic that had lost to Dr. Eggman? A Sonic that fell victim to a perfected version of his wayward Roboticizer idea? He remembered those blueprints well. He had tossed the plans for the Roboticizer long ago after deeming it far too cruel of a weapon, even for use against his enemies. Sure, robotic slaves who obeyed his every whim were a nice thought at first, but where was the excitement after that? Robots did not feel. Therefore they did not fear. They did not hope. They did not attempt to rise up and cause a ruckus, giving Eggman the satisfaction of watching their hope crumble underneath his brilliant glory. Why else would he continuously challenge Sonic, despite his constant streak of losses? The hedgehog pushed him to greater heights, greater goals. He wouldn't have come as far with his mechanical creations if the blasted rodent hadn't constantly trashed them, finding their weaknesses and urging Eggman to do better with his juvenile taunting. If there was one thing Eggman couldn't stand, it was stagnation.

There had been no memory files indicating an organic life before Eggman found Metal on Little Planet. He never would have suspected a thing had it not been for that strange medallion inside Metal. So what about that charm caused this Sonic to suddenly remember a life before he became Metal?

Metal chirped, bringing the man out of his whirling thoughts. “Father, is something wrong? That is what he is asking.”

A Sonic calling him “father.” The man who likely turned Sonic into this in another time or another dimension. A Sonic that had been blown to bits and rebuilt countless times by Eggman's own hands. A Sonic constantly being treated as inferior by another version of himself.

Suddenly the term no longer sounded so endearing.

Chapter Text

Dr. Eggman was acting strange lately, Metal deduced.

Ever since his last repair operation, the esteemed doctor had thrown himself into deep research akin to when he had started his investigation into the origins of Dark Gaia. His sister, Sage, had been running nonstop to look into every little detail that seemed of import. When Metal took a look into the Doctor's recent searches, they made no logical sense.

The names “Sonia” and “Chuck.” The word “Mobius.” Sonic the Hedgehog's nonexistent family tree. The old Roboticizer blueprints. Calculations and hypotheses on possible roboticized victims. All known information regarding the strange object that was found in Metal's power core.

Was it some sort of elaborate plan beyond Metal's computing ability to understand? That would make the most sense. Of course his fath—master would already be plotting his next plan for Sonic's downfall. Metal had failed to destroy his copy. Again. Even though the doctor seemed to get less annoyed nowadays by Metal's consistent failures, it never sat right with the unit. He was built by one of the smartest men on the planet. He was made from the best aerodynamic material, was waterproof, and was designed to kill. He should be more than strong enough to take out his organic copy. But no. Metal was always the one who lost. What use was a robot that couldn't fulfill its programmed directive? When would his fath—his creator realize Metal wasn't worth keeping around and toss him into the trash compactor with the rest of his broken brethren? Metal silently hoped that would never happen, but realistically it was inevitable. If he could not do what he was built for, what was the point of keeping that which was of no use? Even if he could escape like he had once before during one of his rebellious phases, there was no place in the outside world that would accept him. He would always be the inferior copy compared to his living counterpart. He would always be feared and hated. It made him…sad.

Nothing to do about it. Fulfill your primary directive. Serve Dr. Robotnik. That's all he could do.

“I can sense your processor burning from here, Big Bro.” Metal blinked, turning towards the voice. Orbot and Cubot were giving him concerned looks. “You really shouldn't worry so much.”

“Yeah! I mean, look at us!” Cubot gestured to his spherical brother. “We’re even more useless than you and Dr. Eggman still keeps us around. You're the best of the best of us, just like Li’l Sis! He'd never get rid of you!”

Metal averted his gaze. They had a point. But still…

“Hmm…” Orbot then snapped his fingers. “You know what? I have an idea. Let's test out the properties of your power core! Any new weapon you can use to beat up Sonic is bound to cheer you up!”

“Ya mean have Big Bro make some noise? How are we gonna do that?”

Orbot hummed. “Good question. Especially since he has no voice chip in his base mode.”

Metal shook his head. They could worry about testing new weapons another time if it meant having to use the Neo Metal form. Without a direct order from the Doctor, the Neo Metal form was off-limits. He would not betray his fath—his maker’s trust in him.

He really needed to fix that error. Dr. Eggman had seemed unsettled by Metal using the term “father” in association with him recently. It…hurt to see that. Had he done something wrong? Had he fallen out of the Doctor's good graces again? Whatever the case, Metal had failed somewhere and the fondness for the term was gone. Best to fix what was broken and make sure it never happened again.

“I'm sure the Doctor would be lenient with the form change just this once. And if he does get angry, we'll just tell him it was our idea and he'll toss us around like he usually does before asking for the results,” Orbot suggested. “Don't worry. We have your back, Big Bro!”

These two…

As much as they could be nuisances, their programming was in the right place. It was why Metal appreciated their presence and why he thought of them as siblings. They'd protect him and care for him, no matter what—no matter how much he failed.

This encryption was brilliant. Only a genius of his caliber would be capable of producing such a sophisticated protection system. And if Eggman's suspicions were correct, it had been an alternate version of him who developed it.

He never once thought to bother accessing Metal's earliest memory files. Metal himself was incapable of accessing them for some unexplainable reason, so it was left to Eggman to try and do so. He had attempted it once before, but failed. That led to Eggman having to create and upload a whole new storage system for recordings once Metal was under his control. Eventually, curiosity was replaced with anger due to consistent losses to Sonic and Eggman figured anything useful he could have used from the earliest memories would have been outdated at that point. It had been six years since his last attempt. This time, he would not fail—not with Sage sorting through thousands of numbers, symbols, and characters every millisecond. Many questions were begging to be answered and those memory files may be the key to answering some of them. Sage was close to breaking through the encryption after a few days. Now it was only a matter of minutes before he could sort through Metal's past before he wound up on Little Planet.

“Encryption removed. Downloading memory files now.”

Eggman beamed. He loved how efficient his daughter was. As the files began popping up on the central computer, Eggman was startled by the amount. There were shockingly few—like Metal didn't bother to record anything except for key moments in his roboticized life. He frantically clicked on the memory file that was listed as the oldest—Metal’s first recorded memory.

The screen blinked on, revealing a hi-tech base lined with computer screens and a room-long keyboard. Drones hovered about, doing their due diligence inputting their information into the system. Boots that belonged to stubby legs entered Metal's field of vision, prompting the machine to look up at the owner. Eggman clenched his folded hands tighter, seeing the evil grin and familiar, yet less impressive mustache. The man was much shorter and more stout than Eggman was, but the triumphant look of victory was plain to see in his dark eyes. He even had the gall to wear a cape like he was some sort of king.

“Excellent! At long last, my victory is assured!” The other Robotnik laughed. “With Sonic gone, the Resistance will crumble and the whole of Mobius will be in the palm of my hand. My rule will be absolute.”

“Um… Are you certain about that, Your Evilness?” Metal's view moved to the one who spoke. Some sort of wolf and orange-colored dingo stood off to the side, much taller and larger than the anthropomorphic residents Eggman was used to seeing in his own world. “You know those other two hedgehogs won't stop fighting back even if their annoying brother is on our side now.”

“Of course I'm certain!” Robotnik snapped back, tapping his fingers together like a movie supervillain. “After all, the Oracle of Delphius's prophecy can only come true if all four hedgehog royals are reunited. As of today, it is null and void! With Prince Sonic roboticized, he is now under my control! He is programmed to serve only me: the glorious Dr. Robotnik! All I have to do is give the order and he'll have no choice but to obliterate his family and any other Resistance member that dares to oppose me!”

The dingo curiously went over and tapped Metal's chassis. “Sonic's gonna beat ‘em? He don't look too tough.”

“That's what we said when we first tried going after those three hedgehogs and look what happened, you dingbat,” The wolf grumbled. “Failure after failure until those three finally fell apart at the right place and time for us to grab Sonic.”

“So, does that mean what I think it means, Sleet?”

The wolf, Sleet apparently, sighed. “Yes, Dingo. That means it's only a matter of time before Sonia will be in Dr. Robotnik's hands. Which means you can look after her all you want—once she's roboticized, that is.”

Okay, that was creepy. Eggman prided himself on being an evil genius, but at least he was an evil genius with standards. And that name, Sonia, raised alarm bells in his head. The supposed sister Metal (Sonic) talked about had indeed existed. But this file was dated to be seven years old. Calculating his own Sonic's age back when Metal was first found, the hedgehog had to have been ten-years-old at most. Which likely meant…this dingo was lusting after a child. Absolutely unthinkable.

“Attention, my Metal Sonic,” Robotnik declared. Metal immediately responded. Recognition software activated, allowing the machine to process the order. “Excellent! Responding as programmed. It is a shame all of your knowledge about the Resistance is gone, but I couldn't have you slipping through my fingers again. It would've been child’s play to wipe out every single base of theirs with such information at my disposal. But with you working for me, it’s only a matter of time before their feeble attempts at freedom fighting are crushed underfoot. For your first order, I demand you capture your former siblings: Manic and Sonia!”

Eggman could see the information being uploaded from the main database, logging the information for future reference. It allowed Eggman to see the aforementioned sister in addition to a brother that Metal (Sonic) had not mentioned in his brief moment of organic clarity before. Eggman let out a tense breath, seeing just how young the hedgehogs were. They truly were just children. Sonia distinctly reminded Eggman of Amy: strong, determined, but still a lady and anyone who disagreed would be met with pain. As for the brother, Manic strangely fit that role based on the description. Deft hands, keen intellect, a talent with machinery, and the most naive; if Eggman didn't know better, he thought he was looking at the green hedgehog equivalent to Tails. The memory file cut short, like Metal deemed it no longer necessary to pay attention now that he had orders to follow. Perhaps that Robotnik had determined only the most critical of information was to be stored and saved in Metal's database—information that would only serve to protect and uphold the empire that Robotnik had built.

Eggman absent-mindedly twisted one of the hairs in his mustache, moving onto the next file. He winced when it involved the siblings Metal was told to apprehend. The two ran, stumbling during the one-sided battle against their roboticized brother. They didn't have the heart to commit to the fight, knowing who it was they were facing. Both lacked the speed and dexterity that Sonic was known for, leading to the two having to lure Metal into a trap in order to escape with their lives.

The next file was Robotnik beating on Metal, insulting him for failing to complete such a simple order. Useless pile of bolts. Should have him turned into a can opener. Worthless as his original self, so it probably shouldn't surprise Robotnik. Eggman was grinding his teeth, watching his own mistakes be displayed before his eyes. Metal was not useless; overly determined and a bit of an ego, sure, but that was normal for Sonic. How dare this fake insult his precious s—weapon! Metal took over and led a robot commando army! Metal copied the biodata of the Ultimate Lifeform and the God of Destruction itself, giving himself unparalleled power! He did all of that by himself! And this guy had the nerve to think Metal useless!?

“Father, your internal body temperature is rising at an alarming rate around your cranial area.”

“No, no. I'm fine, Sage. No need to worry. It's just the intense rage I'm feeling and not an oncoming cold.”

Eggman spent hours combing through the rest of the memory files. Multiple instances of so-called “Resistance” members being captured and hoarded into a Roboticizer. Multiple encounters and escapes with the siblings Metal was supposed to destroy. Multiple abuses suffered at the hands of the Robotnik who thought himself a king, kept only as a deterrent for his living family—an unsaid warning that they'd lose Metal (Sonic) entirely if they dared to oppose Robotnik's regime.

Eggman had to take a break after viewing the last memory. The two siblings had found a Chaos Emerald—and wasn't that a shock to realize the Chaos Emeralds existed in another reality—and used its power to whisk Metal away from their world. Chaos Emeralds turned thoughts and feelings into power and, knowingly or not, Sonia and Manic had wished Metal to be free from Robotnik's control. One Emerald alone would not be able to change Metal (Sonic) back to normal, so it did the next best thing: whisking the robot away from the one who controlled him. That wish had to have been how Metal ended up on Little Planet. If Sonia and Manic could see their wish had been in vain when Metal (Sonic) ended up serving a different Dr. Robotnik, they would've been heartbroken.

And that one word from the very first file bugged him. Prince Sonic. Metal had been royalty? The only thing that was royal about Sonic was knowing how to be a royal pain in the butt. Still, it did not change the other established facts. Metal (Sonic) had a family before Eggman. Metal (Sonic) had been at war with his own Eggman. Metal had failed where Sonic didn't. Could that be why Metal was so intent on proving himself superior to Sonic? Or perhaps there was more underneath that intense hatred for his other? Was that hatred even felt by his former self? Were there two sides to Metal? One a mere child and the other one of the world's most advanced supercomputers built into the body of the world's most powerful robot?

Eggman had much to think about. And all of it was making his supreme intellect turn itself around into knots. The Resistance had to be a resistance group working to overthrow that Robotnik's rule. Metal (Sonic) and his siblings had obviously been a part of that organization. Judging by the words used, the Resistance had been an ongoing problem for Robotnik for years. But what led to Metal (Sonic) being taken captive and roboticized? What did that Sleet guy mean that the three hedgehogs “fell apart”? Surely not a sibling fight, right? But then again, Sonic being Sonic, Eggman could see his impulsive and reckless actions driving a wedge between his more sensible siblings if those descriptions were anything to go by. And who was the last hedgehog Metal (Sonic) and his siblings needed to be reunited with in order for some sort of prophecy to be fulfilled? That world’s version of Shadow? Or perhaps even Silver? Surely not Amy. Or maybe it could be Amy? The girl was an army all by herself when angered. But Robotnik mentioned hedgehog royals, so that meant a familial relationship. With how similar Sonic and Shadow were, it was possible a version of Shadow could exist in that world. Oh wait. Sage had said that Metal (Sonic) mentioned a mother and an Uncle Chuck. Perhaps one of them was the fourth? Although, that begged the question of where the heck Metal's (Sonic's) other friends were at the time of his roboticization. Surely another Tails, Knuckles, Amy, or even Shadow would not have left Metal (Sonic) to his fate?

Some answers had been provided. Many more questions popped up as a result.

“Father, sensors indicate Big Brother has activated the Neo Metal mode.”

Annnnnd those questions had to wait. “WHAT!?”

“Orbot, I don’t feel comfortable with this…”

“Relax, Big Bro! What could go wrong?”

Neo Metal sighed. At least he could sigh now. That was the one thing Metal missed in his base form. The things he could openly speak about. The laughter he could utter. The taunting he could do. The wonderful thing that was a voice chip. Maybe next time when the Doctor was in a good mood he could request a voice chip for his base form?

“Is the video camera necessary, Cubot?”

“Well, duh!” The yellow, cube-shaped one replied. “How else are we gonna show Dr. Eggman what you're made of?”

Metal's eye imitated twitching. “You could use your own? You know, the one you were built with that's wired directly to your optical receptors?”

“Okie-dokie! We're ready for testing!” Orbot chimed in, interrupting any potential arguments and groans from Metal about Cubot's lacking common sense functions. There were several stands of reinforced glass set up in the room. They were supposedly the Sonic-proof kind. “Go ahead and charge up your power. Channel it through your core. Theoretically, that power should be released as a sound output if the Doctor's hypothesis is correct. See if you can unleash a sound wave at the glass and shatter them. Or if not, see what effects the sound has upon releasing the energy.”

Metal nodded, focusing on the power within and gathering it into the center of his body. Usually he'd only do this when he needed to use the laser built into his torso when normal claws and guns were not suitable for destroying annoying blue speedsters that had the audacity to parade their ideals around. He'd never tried transitioning the energy into another form before. He never knew he was capable of doing so. Yet another reason why Dr. Eggman was a brilliant genius whose talent surpassed all other fleshlings on this wretched mudball of a planet. He could feel the pressure building within his core, waiting to be unleashed. Now to let it loose…if only he knew how. He couldn't simply release it as he'd always done. That would tear a line into the walls of the base and Metal did not want to take the Doctor away from his scheduled scheming time for easily avoidable renovations.

“Don't think too hard about it, Big Bro! Just let it go!”

“Yeah! Like that one movie Cream asked to watch the last time we kept her captive!”

Oh Gaia, Metal remembered that clearly. It took a week for him to scrub the melody and words from his database because for some inexplicable reason they got stuck in his head. But were they both telling him to…sing to release the energy? Metal did not sing. He couldn't. He'd never tried. There was never a need to. World domination did not happen through singing. Although…with how dang catchy that song was in that child's movie, it could provide some sort of hypnotizing effect if used in the right way. Surely the Doctor could find a use for that? It could turn Sonic's supporters against him. The thought brought Metal some sense of satisfaction. After all, Amy and Shadow were weak before the songs of pop icons based on their spy bots’ data. But…how did one sing? And what?

Sing the song that is in your heart.

Metal almost let loose the stored power by mistake. The words came from nowhere. They weren't from his own internal systems that functioned as subconscious thought. They didn't come from within the base nor from the overhead speakers. There was no logical explanation for the sentence he had heard. Yet, it came from within—from deep in his core, in his facsimile heart. He was capable of processing emotions and analyzing them. And he could tell there was…something inside there. Something beyond what his programming should be capable of producing. Something…deep. Something…complicated.

Let it go. Inhibitions. Second-guessing. Just…feel. And share it.

The fear of being abandoned—so many failures could only lead to it. The desire to be more than what he is—to be enough to be the real Sonic, to be better than Sonic, to be himself. The uncertainty of his future now that Sage—superior in every aspect to him—had been created. And…something more that he didn't realize was missing.

“Gales of song… Guide me through the storm…”

Wait. The words just…came to him? And that voice…was his voice chip capable of reaching that tenor? That certainly wasn't his normal baritone he was used to while in his Neo Metal form. And yet…it felt…natural. The flow of energy had stabilized, flooding through every portion of his body. He felt…alive. Or as alive as a killer robot could feel. This was…him. All him. This was his. Not something that belonged to Sonic that he borrowed simply by being a robotic copy. These words…these feelings…this power…

“On the wings of a small, simple melody,

Words take flight and soar,

They carry me.

A world we'll see.”

“Looking for a farewell, I pull the threads.

A life without you, I cannot accept.

I can't tell that lie.

I can't let go.”

Where did these feelings of sadness and regret come from? Of course he could not imagine life without his fath—his creator there to give him purpose. It was he who gave him life; he who gave him the ability to grow and learn about the world around him. But…who else were these words meant for? These words that came from within, yet he knew not their origin. They were meant for…

“But now that you're gone, I have to move on.

Seems like everyone just smiles staring at the sun.

But what about me?

Tell me how I will know where I should go?”

Where indeed? Where could he belong without—in this world where his role has already been claimed by Sonic or Sage? As the world turns ever forward, life moves on regardless of his struggles.

You belong with us, as you always have. Sing, my son. Sing with all of your heart, loud and true! And we will follow it to the ends of the planet until you are back in our arms once more!

Something broke inside him. Sensations he couldn't compute quickly enough swept through his mind and heart—core. Joy? Sorrow? Hope? Despair? Recognition? Confusion? Dichotomies of all sorts barraged his system. But one thing stayed constant: the desire to belt out all those feelings to that voice.

“Oh gales, you sing and guide me!

I walk alone, there's more to life I have to know.

It's just me, lost so far away from home.

Alone I shut myself in.”

“Still the winds howl, they call,

And their voices lead me!

Gales of song, guide me through the storm!

Let the melody lift me high, I'll be me!”

And just as quickly as it started, it was over; the emotional whammy, the desire to sing, the magic of the moment. Logic returned and the reality of the past couple minutes hit him hard. Had he really just…sang!? Like some wannabe pop artist!? Metal was mortified that he had debased himself in front of his brothers, let alone inside his master's base! He was a weapon, not an idol! What was he thinking!? The Doctor would be livid with him for such a display of weakness!

Yet, there was a slow clapping from distinctly human hands. Metal's eyes darted to the entryway. There was his master's form, and the human was…applauding him? Even Sage was looking at him with a sincere smile. Metal wasn't sure what was worse: Eggman hating his performance and needing to rewire his decision-making protocols for the nth time or Eggman enjoying his impromptu song and somehow wanting more. As his eyes scanned around him, he saw that the entirety of the maidbots and some Egg Pawns had filled the room. Their testing lab had become a concert hall and Metal just wanted to melt into a puddle and hide somewhere until he fixed whatever error that led to this severe lapse in judgment.

“Ah! Wait a minute, Big Bro! Don't melt away!” Nope. Not today, Orbot. Better to make an exit now and suffer the Doctor's displeasure later. “Don't you want to hear about the results?”

“No,” he answered flatly, already half a puddle of liquid metal. “I'm going to the tech lab to be fixed…again. I shall await your punishment there for disobeying your orders and using the Neo Metal form, Doctor.”

“Metal Sonic.” The way Dr. Eggman said it made him pause. He reformed into a solid state, attention focused solely on his master. “I don't think you realize the magnitude of what you just did.”

“I defied a direct order from you. Smeared your good name. Participated in frivolous activity instead of working towards your ultimate goal. I understand the consequences of such follies and am already taking immediate action to rectify them, Master.”

Eggman shook his head. “No. That's not what I meant.”

Metal blinked. “I don't understand?”

“Take a good look around you. The entire staff and some of the soldiers are in here, true. But there's more outside. They're crowded in the hall right now.”

Metal's eyes dilated in size. “I distracted the entire base!?”

“No. Your power reached them. Whatever magic that medallion in your power core is capable of creating, it connected to and resonated with everyone when you sang. Even me.”

Metal dared to look up at his creator. “You mean you…liked it?”

Eggman harrumphed. “It wasn't bad, per se, but it could use some work!”

Sage giggled. “Father truly enjoyed it, Big Brother. He just doesn't want to admit it because he refuses to share any sort of similarities with the hedgehogs he hates.”

“Sage!” Eggman groaned and then let out a sigh, rubbing the top of his head. “In any case, trying to convert the medallion's power into sound was not nearly as destructive as I was hoping for. But…this power could still be useful.”

“Y-You think so, Doctor?” Metal tried to quash down the sense of hope rising in his torso. Something to distinguish himself from Sage. Something not even Sonic could do. “You know I'd do anything to assist you in eliminating my copy and creating the Eggman Empire. If you think…me singing could possibly help with those purposes, then I'll do it gladly.”

“We'll have to test out if it works on other living beings first.”

“Welp, we'll find out soon enough!” Cubot announced with a grin. Eggman, Metal, and Orbot all stared at the cube-shaped robot, all dreading what he meant. None of them had even noticed his absence. What did he do? “It was so good, I thought the whole world should know how awesome our Big Bro is!”

Metal's eye began to imitate twitching again. “You. Did. Not. You did not just upload that to TailsTube. Tell me you didn't.”

Cubot at least had the sense to look ashamed. “Did you not want Sonic to know he couldn't carry a tune to save a life?”

Metal actually did turn into a puddle this time.

Chapter Text

TailsTube was a fun little side project that belonged to one Miles Prower. A simple way for people to interact and share content with each other, usually centering around one Sonic the Hedgehog. But oftentimes there were other wholesome moments of fans meeting Earth's other heroes. Photos of Shadow and Amy at their latest pop concert, a woman's praise for Rouge for helping her pick out the best lipstick color and blush at the store for her upcoming date, a thank-you letter to the Chaotix for helping them solve a case that involved a family member's death and corrupt management that tried to cover it up. All sorts of battle videos were uploaded on the site, showing Team Sonic or Team Dark taking out Dr. Eggman's latest armada of robots and stopping the man's attempt at world domination for the thousandth time. It let the people appreciate Sonic's sense of justice all the more when they saw how much of a threat Eggman posed to world peace. The hedgehog didn't have to go out of his way to save the planet if he didn't want to. But he did because it was the right thing to do.

It was a website dedicated to Sonic and all of his many friends. So imagine Tails's surprise to see a new video posted and the view count had exploded past normal numbers to the point that the website was crashing from the sheer amount of traffic visiting the site. He had to do an impromptu fix to the bandwidth to handle the amount of users. As for the cause? Well, Tails was as stunned as the community seemed to be upon seeing a video of Neo Metal Sonic singing. Simply titled “Dude-itude has Nothing on Big Bro!”, it displayed Sonic's robotic doppelganger singing something Tails didn't immediately recognize with a different sounding voice than the last time he heard Neo Metal speak. It was so uncharacteristic of the bot that Tails was having trouble believing that the video was real. Clearly everyone else online thought likewise, based on the comments under the video. Theories were thrown around about possible diabolical Eggman schemes, disbelief over how realistic Metal sounded compared to most robotic voices they had heard, and all stating they felt moved and profoundly sad after listening to the song.

Tails was immediately suspicious. The whole thing screamed bad news. The mere fact that Metal Sonic had access to his Neo Metal form was worrying enough. If he still had access to their biodata, the only thing stopping Metal from simply burning the world to the ground and ruling it as its supreme overlord was Metal's current dedication to Eggman. Who knew how long that loyalty would last this time?

“Sonic! We've got a problem!”

Air whooshed by his ear, his supersonic speedster of a brother running to his side in an instant. Sonic's expression was serious, prepared for whatever bad news Tails was going to drop. “What's up, buddy?”

Tails gestured to the video playing on his Miles Electric. “Take a look. Tell me what you think.”

Sonic raised an eye ridge. “Neo Metal? What's he doing?”

Two minutes passed as Sonic listened to Metal sing. Tails waited for a reaction. He needed to know his worries were valid—that Sonic recognized that Neo Metal's return could spell disaster if Eggman was able to control the destructive form without the bot disobeying him. What Tails was not expecting was the smile that stretched across his brother's face before the hedgehog burst out laughing. Sonic fell over, clutching his chest and kicking his feet into the air. He was wheezing after a while and Tails actually wondered if Sonic would pass out from laughing so hard. It took several more minutes before Sonic could breathe normally again and talk without snickers interrupting what he wanted to say.

“S-Sorry, Tails! I just—I can’t—!” Sonic snorted again, taking deep breaths to control himself. “Oh man, I can't believe I saw that! Metal Sonic singing! Talk about embarrassing!”

Tails narrowed his eyes at his brother. “Sonic, nothing about this is funny.”

“Are you kidding? Did we watch the same thing? I saw Eggman's ultimate death robot that thinks he's me playing at being Amy and Shadow's favorite pop artist.”

“I saw that Neo Metal Sonic is back,” Tails sternly pointed out. “Unexpected online performance aside, that's a bad sign.”

Sonic waved the concern away as if it were just a bad storm cloud hovering over Tails's head. “Relax, Tails. What's he gonna do? Serenade our victory when we kick his butt like we always do?”

“Need I remind you it took everyone's help and all seven Chaos Emeralds to take down Metal Madness last time?”

That seemed to subdue Sonic's humor, bringing him back to the reality of the situation. “Yeah. I know you're right. It's definitely a problem. But this whole thing seems weird, doesn’t it? Metal is, well, Metal. Mets doesn't sing. And why show off that form on the internet, much less TailsTube of all platforms? You'd think Eggy would keep a secret weapon like that under wraps until the time was right.”

“Judging by the title, I think it was Cubot who uploaded the clip.”

Sonic let out a chuckle. “Yeah, that sounds about right. Thinking about the consequences of their actions is not something Orbot or Cubot excel at.”

“Although…Cubot does have a point.” Tails sent a sly smirk towards his brother. “Even if it's the best voice modulator Eggman is capable of creating, Metal still sounds way better than you, Sonic.”

Sonic actually looked offended. “Hey! I can totally sing better than one of Eggman's robots!”

Tails deadpanned at the hedgehog. “Not from where Knuckles and I stand. And after Knuckles came up with that cool band name for that fundraiser for G.U.N. too.”

“Sheesh. First Shadow pokes fun at my voice and now you.”

“I'm not saying your voice is bad. What I mean is try not to sound so sharp the next time you attempt to do karaoke for people.”

Sonic pouted at his snickering brother. “I don't sound sharp!”

“Shadow's deep-as-heck voice can keep a pitch with a pop song better than you can with rock-and-roll. I don't know how you managed that.”

Sonic rolled his eyes and groaned. “So what if I'm a little off-key? It's not like singing is gonna help Metal in a fight.”

“Actually…it might.”

Sonic stared at the serious expression on Tails's face. “Really?”

“All the comments have mentioned that they were emotionally affected when they listened to Metal. That means there might be some sort of special wavelength in the vocals that’s capable of targeting the limbic system. I have to do some tests on the sound from this video to be certain.”

“So what does that mean? In an ‘Egghead’s Latest Scheme to Take Over the World’ kind of way?”

“It means, if such a power is perfected, Metal could theoretically control the minds of whoever listens to his voice. Our friends—even ourselves—wouldn't be safe from it unless we found a counter-frequency to cancel it out.”

“So that means we just trash Metal and wipe the data about that special wavelength from the Eggster’s archives!” Sonic declared, slamming his fist into his palm. “Eggman's been too quiet for too long anyway. We oughta pay his secret base a visit.”

Tails smiled. “Good idea. And we don't have to scour the world to find it either. It should be a simple matter of following the IP address that uploaded this video in the first place.”

“You can do that?”

“Yep! It'll be a piece of cake! I'll have Eggman's base located before you can say ‘Baldy McNosehair’!”

Sonic ruffled the fur on top of Tails's head, earning some giggles from his little brother. “As always, you're the best, buddy!”

“C'mon, Big Bro. I said I was sorry.”

Metal Sonic had not stopped glaring at the cubic problem that was his younger brother. It didn't matter that Cubot uploaded that recording with good intentions. What did matter was how absolutely insufferable Sonic the Hedgehog was going to be the moment he saw that video and ran into Metal Sonic again. As if the jerkwad wasn't annoying enough with his witty comebacks already. Sonic would never let Metal live that moment down for the rest of his existence.

Metal could imagine it clearly. The obnoxious laughter. The accusing finger pointed at him while Sonic teased about how soft Metal had become and how Metal had to reach for singing of all things to distinguish himself from his better. The inevitable fight that would result in Metal's loss while Sonic taunted about how Metal needed to step up his game if ever wanted to be even remotely like Sonic. Sure, maybe Sonic had no musical talent. His performance with Tails and Knuckles at their last attended charity event proved the hedgehog could shatter eardrums if he wasn't careful. But what use was singing compared to everything else Sonic was capable of?

Singing was useless. It didn't matter that Metal actually enjoyed it, despite logic telling him he should be ashamed of it. It didn't matter that he felt free, lost in the words that poured forth from his core. It didn't matter if the countless comments on that uploaded video on TailsTube praised his vocals. Singing would have to remain a secret hobby until Dr. Eggman found a use for it. Last he heard, the Doctor was marveling at the reactions of the common masses. All were affected emotionally in some capacity. Maybe Metal's dreams of mind control were on the distant horizon?

Any thoughts about potentially helping his fath—the Doctor were shattered by the warning sirens indicating the base had been breached. Metal recognized the noise all too well. It took only a second to warm his engine and blast off towards the sounds of robots being decimated. How dare Sonic intrude upon the Doctor's lair! Dr. Eggman was in the middle of research! He hadn't even made any threats to the populace recently! Why was that bothersome hedgehog here now? Anger coursed through Metal's systems. He'd get his revenge on his copy for sure this time! He refused to fail again. If he did…

Metal quickly spotted his copy making mincemeat of the foot soldiers, that familiar cocky smirk plastered on his mug as he ruthlessly slaughtered Metal's comrades. Dozens of Egg Pawns and Motobugs had already been destroyed, parts strewn about the hallway. Sonic was leaving a trail of destruction as he forced his way further into the hideout, clearly focused on finding Dr. Eggman. Metal dove down at Sonic, curling up and ramming into his copy with full force. Sonic was sent flying through a wall, his grunt of pain a small blessing amid the sea of mutilated commandos. Sonic crawled out of the depression, turning his smirk onto Metal.

“Long time no see, Mets!” Sonic greeted, brushing some dirt off his shoulder. “How've you been? I’m surprised you’re walking considering how badly I beat you last time.”

Metal snarled, but it came out as a series of angry beeps. Sonic had just annihilated his comrades and he had the audacity to ask that? As if they were just taking a walk and chatting about the weather outside? How dare he demean his fath—the Doctor's creations like that! Metal curled up again and launched himself at Sonic, his copy doing the same. Their bodies met, spines clashing as they fought to shred through each other. A stalemate, as always. Sonic was first to back off, causing Metal to shoot through the wall next. Sonic then took his chance to run and Metal quickly recovered to chase after him. Once Metal was neck and neck with his copy, Sonic gave him a teasing grin.

“Oh, so you didn't lose your touch. I thought for sure you'd gone soft.”

Metal glared harder at the annoyance.

“I saw your little concert, Mets. Do you plan on taking lessons? Because it sounds like you need ‘em!”

GAH! He hated this guy! If only he could just wring the dastard's neck, then all of his problems would be solved! Metal swiped his claws at Sonic, watching as the hedgehog easily dodged his attack. He followed his copy, throwing punch after punch which were countered with swift kicks or side steps. Frustration built up and it caused Metal’s attacks to become more frenzied—less refined. He wanted to wipe that smug look off the glorified pincushion’s face! What right did he have to look down on Metal? What right did he have to take the lives of so many comrades? Even if they could simply be rebuilt, it didn’t mean those robots’ lives had no purpose other than to be stepping stones for a supersonic hedgehog that was keen on ransacking a perfectly wonderful lair! If it weren’t for Sonic existing, his fath—the Doctor’s dreams could become a reality. If it weren’t for Sonic, Metal could finally become his own person—no longer living in the shadow of his organic copy. No longer would he be useless. No longer would he be a failure. No longer would his fath—the Doctor look at him with such sadness in his eyes, obviously disappointed with Metal’s terrible performance over the years.

I’m Sonic. Not him! The only Sonic that should exist…is me!

He launched himself at Sonic, claws poised to tear into soft flesh and rip the hedgehog’s heart from between his ribs. But they never made their mark. Two feet slammed into his torso with such force that Metal felt wires breaking and parts cracking before he was sent flying through the ceiling. As if the universe was keen to continue hating him, he ended up right in the line of fire of Sonic’s sidekick on the upper floor. The fox had just finished pocketing a portable USB drive from one of the nearby research stations before swiftly pulling out some sort of laser gun. The beams of energy pierced through his chassis and melted through the engine on his back, causing an emergency shutdown to prevent his insides from exploding. Gravity took over, sending Metal plummeting back down and landing roughly enough to damage one of his legs.

“Nice shot, Tails!” Sonic called from right beside Metal’s ear. “Did you get what you needed?”

“Yep! All of Eggman’s recent research and his newest master plan!” the fox responded. “Let’s get out of here! I’ve activated the self-destruct feature. We’ve got five minutes!”

“No sweat! We only need one; right, buddy?”

“You got it!”

If Metal could swear, a stream of words the Doctor would not approve of would’ve been exiting his nonexistent mouth. He lifted his head only to see the tail of a retreating Sonic the Hedgehog. Metal simply stared down the hall where his nemesis had disappeared. The danger looming in the near future was drowned out by the crushing realization that Metal had lost. Again.

Why?

Why could he never win?

Why did he always fail?

Why couldn’t he just do as his master desired?

Four minutes left till self-destruction.

Sage. Orbot and Cubot. His fath—his creator. He needed to get them out.

But…did they really need him?

His sister would’ve noticed the break in. She was, in essence, the EggNet herself. Anything stored in the system would be with her, so the Doctor wouldn't be losing any data with the base's imminent destruction. She would have warned the Doctor and proceeded to usher him to safety. Orbot and Cubot would’ve been in charge of maintaining the Eggmobile. They would’ve brought it to the Doctor. All the peons would’ve had their respective escape protocols activated in response to the self-destruct feature over the EggNet. They had time to escape. All of them would be safe. Which left him with his booster busted and his leg a twisted mess. Would he be fast enough to avoid total annihilation?

Three minutes left till self-destruction.

No. He wouldn't. He was never fast enough—never good enough. Maybe…it would be better to just lay here and accept his fate? After all, he was clearly a defect. A failure. The Doctor did not tolerate failure. Besides, the Doctor had his schematics. He could build another Metal Sonic. A better Metal Sonic. A more obedient Metal Sonic. One that could succeed where Metal had failed over and over again.

Two minutes left till self-destruction.

The sounds of dripping fluid reached his auditory sensors. Had a pipe burst due to the mad rush of robots fleeing the base? The liquid sounded close by. Footsteps followed the dripping, shoes squelching as they walked across the floor. One of the feet seemed to be dragging, like it was broken. Yet, there was also the telltale bzzzrt in the air that indicated damaged wires were sparking. Metal turned his head, red optics locking on to the cause. Air shoes. Golden bracelets. Black and…yellow? The sparking came from dragging a broken leg, which was hanging on by what few wires that were acting as tendons. From the shoulder an arm was missing entirely, part of the torso ripped away to reveal the exoskeleton underneath imitation fur. A familiar face stared back at Metal, yet the eyes were a hollow red that clashed horribly with the sunshine-yellow stripes.

One minute left till self-destruction.

“An-Analysis com-complete. Re-Result: Metal Sonic-c-c. Significant-cant damage observed-d-d.” The voice, so like Shadow’s, had a robotic undertone and was glitching out. “Ac-Action required-d. Order to flee-flee given-en.”

Metal shook his head. Leave me. You can make it if you hurry. I'm…not worth saving.

“C-Cannot c-compute reasoning-g-g.”

Broken tools are useless. I am…flawed. Therefore I am useless. If I am supposed to be Sonic, why do I keep failing? Why does my copy succeed while I cannot? I do not understand. I do not think I ever will. It…would be better for the Doctor if he did not have a defect for an ultimate weapon.

“Query: Is this cal-calculation correct-rect?”

Metal wasn’t sure. It's what he believed. And surely the Doctor, with his extensive knowledge, would think this to be true as well? The android offered a hand, its movement jerky as if the limb wasn't functioning properly.

“Ask Dr. Ro-Robotnik-k. Confirm-firm. Do not ter-terminate yet. Ensure certainty-ty.”

Ten seconds left till self-destruction.

Metal decided to take the hand. The other bot tightened its hold, eyes flashing crimson.

“CHAOS CONTROL!”

Dread pooled into Eggman’s gut as he watched the explosion go off in the distance. The entire base was toast. Flying debris scattered across the sky, plunging into the ocean and sinking as quickly as Eggman’s hopes were. There was no speck of blue soaring across the sky. There was no hum of an engine burning through magical energy. Even his communicator remained eerily silent. Sage's last status update had indicated that Metal was still inside just before the whole place went kaboom.

At that moment, Eggman didn't care that Sonic ruined yet another perfectly good evil hideout. He didn't care that Tails had snatched what little notes and ideas he had scribbled down as a result of diving through Metal's (Sonic's) past. Neither could do much with that information since Eggman himself still hadn't figured out what it was he was going for with those written thoughts. What he did care about was that Metal Sonic may have been blown apart into so many pieces that it'd be impossible to put him back together again. He wasn't just a robot that could be rebuilt from scratch. Nothing—and no one—could ever replace what Metal was. Metal had been a living person once. That person could be gone forever; slain by the actions of an alternate version of himself.

Static in the air caused the tips of his mustache to spike out. A flash of light erupted behind him, two thuds hitting the ground and two surprised yelps from Orbot and Cubot sounding out. Eggman nearly gave himself whiplash from how quickly he turned his head. His jaw dropped at the sight. Metal Sonic sat there, somewhat damaged but still in one functioning piece. The other being, however, was a blast from the past.

Metal was looking over the Shadow Android, movements frantic as he checked for a response from them. The eyes of the android were closed and no outside stimuli was causing a reaction. Out of Chaos Energy from using Chaos Control, no doubt. Eggman was surprised the thing still had a supply. But he was even more surprised to see that it had actually woken up and responded to the emergency evacuation protocol. He honestly forgot he had that broken mess hiding away in the lower parts of the base. Seeing the Shadow Android brought back memories of the Black Arms Invasion, back when Eggman had built an entire army of Shadow Androids in an attempt to combat the alien scourge—as well as fight those two troublesome hedgehogs. Shadow had personally sought out every android after the incident with the intent to destroy them. This particular model had been his perfected attempt at creating a Metal Shadow—something akin to Metal Sonic's brilliant design. That was the only reason why it survived its fight with Shadow, even though it was still badly damaged afterwards. However, the loss broke the programming of the android—because how else would one react to not being who you thought you were?—and Eggman never got around to fixing it because it obviously was a failed project right from the start. How ironic that what Eggman considered a failure had likely been what saved Metal from an untimely death.

Eggman went over to Metal, kneeling down and placing a hand on his shoulder. The boy reacted, quickly grabbing hold of his fingers and squeezing them tightly. Metal spun his head around, red optics pleading with their maker.

Please fix him. Eggman understood that without needing Sage to translate. His eyes focused on the broken robot lying helplessly across Metal's knees before returning to the distraught wavering in Metal’s visor. He did this a few times, warring with himself. On one hand, with Metal's track record, it was entirely possible he'd only be subjecting this Shadow Android to a life of consistent losses. On the other hand, Metal had no ally of his own when facing Sonic and his friends. Tails was always by Sonic's side, turning a simple fight on its head just by being there to save Sonic's behind when Metal did gain the upper hand. Metal was always outnumbered and it spelled his doom, no matter how powerful Metal was on his own. But with an ally that possessed the same powers as the Ultimate Lifeform…

He already knew his answer. Besides, how could he deny a request from his child—er, his greatest achievement when he was looking at Eggman like that?

“Alright. I'll see what I can do.”

If Metal had a mouth, Eggman knew he'd be beaming.

Chapter Text

Designation: Shadow Android v.5. Freedom to choose own name once one is determined to be acceptable by the unit.

Directive(s): Primary - Serve Dr. Eggman. Secondary - Defeat Sonic the Hedgehog and any allies associated with him.

Registered Allies: Dr. Eggman, Metal Sonic, Sage, Orbot, Cubot - marked as “family”. Any robot serving under Dr. Eggman - marked as “comrades.”

Skill(s): Chaos Energy manipulation. Supersonic speed. Super strength. Chaos Control. Black Arms biology uploaded from the biodata of the Ultimate Lifeform. [Upload additional skill…]

Eggman's fingers hovered over the keys. The evil genius discreetly looked behind him, eyeing the spectacle going on. Neo Metal Sonic standing before the surviving army and singing to provide what comfort and sense of safety he could, Sage playing radio music from the Eggmobile while she worked on getting the Mystic Jungle base up and running again, Orbot cheering and Cubot attempting to turn the whole thing into a rave. Never did he think music would slink into his life in the way that it did, much less the effect on him that it had. But such was the magic of the medallion, Eggman supposed. What a power to have: the power of connection, the power to bring people together. It was something Sonic could do so easily with his words alone. And Metal was capable of doing the same, but his words came through song and were amplified by the power of the medallion. Comparisons. Bah! Just thinking about Sonic was enough to pop a blood vessel! If it weren't for that conceited little twerp—!

“Dr. Eggman? If I were to cease functioning, would you replace me?”

At the time, the question had stunned him so bad he had dropped his screwdriver into the Shadow Android's open chest cavity. Neo Metal had taken a silent vigil while Eggman worked on repairing the Shadow Android. Having that silence broken by a casual admittance that Metal was questioning if he was worth keeping? That had hurt Eggman far more than he was willing to admit.

“Never.” Neo Metal had eyed him, seemingly surprised by the answer. Why was he surprised? He shouldn't be surprised. Did he not recognize his own worth? “You are one of my greatest creations. Don't let that blue maggot's taunts get into your head.”

“Then why can't I ever win against him?” Neo Metal's hands curled up into fists, eyes wavering. “If what you say is true, I should be a perfect weapon. I should be able to fulfill your orders. And yet I fail over and over again. I trust your judgment and your knowledge, Master. If the problem is not with your design, then something must be inherently wrong with me. Maybe my CPU is dated; or perhaps the medallion is the reason why I’m defective in some manner. I've come to the conclusion that it would be in your best interest to recycle my parts and start from scratch.”

Great Gaia. Metal had essentially told Eggman he would be better off dead because of all of his losses and failures. Perhaps he would have considered it once—and the knowledge of what everything truly was sickened him. Pulling apart a roboticized individual…severing wires (arteries and veins)…cutting out parts (organs)…removing the CPU (brain)…

Failure. How he hated that word. That haunting word seemed to have crossed over from Metal's original organic life. He failed to save innocent people, his siblings, even himself. He failed to be strong enough to protect what mattered. Failure to escape his fate. Failure to overcome his faults.

He abandoned his work and knelt down to Neo Metal Sonic’s level. “You are not a failure.”

“But—!”

“Your processor is functioning as it should. Logically, multiple losses leads you to conclude you are broken or something about you is lacking. But that isn't true. You want to know why?”

Neo Metal blinked, clearly befuddled.

“Because you learn from your mistakes. Because you grow from those losses. Unlike any other creation of mine, you evolve. Each time you come back, you're stronger than before. It forces Sonic to keep on his toes if he wants to continue keeping them.” He lifted the robot's chin, making Neo Metal keep eye contact with him. “So no more talking about or thinking that you're a defect.”

How was it possible for optics on a visor to look so much like the look of a lost child? “But my sister evolves in such a way as well…”

“Sage was an A.I. designed to assist with the protection and management of the EggNet and was significantly affected by the Ancients’ Cyber Space on the Starfall Islands. Her situation and her role is completely different than yours. That does not make you any less useful.” Goodness, was this imposter syndrome combined with an inferiority complex? How did parents deal with this with living teenagers? Curse that blue cactus for doing this to his son—er, his greatest weapon! “Metal Sonic, what you do and what you are is enough. I wouldn't change a single thing about you.”

Metal trembled a bit. “Thank you…Father.”

Eggman focused back on the present, working on the last remaining touches to complete the repair of the Shadow Android. It was as he debated if anything else should be added to the robot's skillset when Neo Metal’s voice reached a crescendo in the background. A swelling feeling of pride and contentment rose inside his heart. Before he knew it, and against his better judgment, he was adding something that he knew Shadow himself wouldn't do—at least out in the open and before an audience. Something that would distinguish the Shadow Android from his organic counterpart, just as that same thing made Metal stand out from Sonic.

The memory files flooded back. Crushing defeat and realization. Failed directive. Glitching recollections of following basic protocol. New information uploaded. Scanning files.

“Awaken, Shadow Android.”

Voice recognition functioning. Order from Dr. Robotnik; going by Dr. Eggman. Crimson eyes slowly opened, registering everything around him. Data seamlessly ran through his CPU. He recognized where he was, who was with his creator, and what he was meant to do.

The conflicting feelings, however, were somewhat new. Something akin to shame had been felt before when he…failed at defeating his true self—the real Ultimate Lifeform. Now that feeling and others were flooding through his head. It was dizzying. Refreshing. Confusing.

“Status report?”

“I am…conflicted, sir,” he settled on. How else could he explain the range of emotions he was now capable of processing?

“YES!” The Doctor cheered as if he just won the lottery before he composed himself. “I didn't think it'd work, but it did! I am an unparalleled genius! That arrogant lump's creations could never compare to my devoted chil—I mean, servants!”

Shadow Android gave the Doctor a questioning look.

“My engineering expertise has only grown since the Black Arms Incident, my boy. I've improved your exoskeleton's overall sturdiness, increased the capacity of your Chaos Energy modulator, bioengineered a unique skin for you to utilize Doom Powers as Shadow can, built firearms into your hands and feet, and used Metal Sonic's CPU as a template for your own. If you’re feeling complex emotions, then it seems I’ve managed to create another A.I. akin to your elder brother and younger sister—this time with my own skill and no Cyper Space interference!”

“Why?”

“Why!? You don't ask a scientist why they do what they do! The real question is ‘Why not?’ and finding where that leads, whether it's utter failure or brilliant success!”

He lowered his head. “I mean I don't understand why you repaired me, much less went through the trouble to improve my design. I failed. I was useless. You should—”

“Good grief, not this again!” Eggman harrumphed. “I already told your elder brother the same thing. You're not a defect for failing to follow your directives. I keep you around because you're worth keeping. You're unique and irreplaceable. Blah, blah, blah, insert rallying advice here. Are we clear?”

Shadow Android was surprised. “You…wish to continue using me, Doctor?”

“Indeed!” Eggman confirmed, gesturing to his posse of peons. “Specifically, I want you to join Metal Sonic on his jaunts and any fights he picks with your organic copies. He’s always at a disadvantage because our enemies never play fair. It's high time we evened the odds.”

Shadow Android eyed Metal Sonic and recognition software activated. Elder brother. He then looked towards the others. Orbot and Cubot. Younger brothers. Sage. Youngest. Only sister. The definitions brought a sense of…comfort. He decided he liked that feeling. He slid off the worktable, the action effortless. For the first time in what felt like forever, he was in one piece and functioning normally again. He had made peace with his fate of being turned into scrap metal long ago, but the Doctor had decided to give him a second chance. He would not squander it. He would fulfill the Doctor's orders this time. He would not fail again.

“So good to meet you face to face, Big Brother! We've heard so much about you!” Orbot greeted him as he made his way over to them. “Although Shadow's countenance still gives my components the jitters.”

“You're not gonna play football with us, are you?” Cubot asked, terrified enough to be shaking.

Shadow Android blinked, perplexed by the question. “What do you mean?”

“Last time we crossed Team Dark, Shadow kicked me and Orbot towards the horizon.”

Orbit sighed. “Ah, yes. I remember that. The sunset flyby was nice. The dip in the ocean, not so much.”

“Yeah! I'm still finding sand and dried seaweed in places it shouldn't be!”

Shadow Android shook his head. “No. I won't do that to you.”

Cubot sagged with relief. “Thanks. Good to know.”

Shadow Android then directed his attention to Metal Sonic. Metal merely shuffled in place, eyes flickering from the android to the floor. Shadow Android wasn't sure if that was a good sign or a bad one, especially considering they were to begin working together at the behest of Dr. Eggman.

“I see that there are, understandably, some reservations about interacting with the Shadow Android unit,” Sage announced. “Therefore, I suggest that the most prudent course of action would be to engage in tasks that will strengthen the camaraderie between us. Build our sibling bond, I believe it is called.”

“Getting to know each other better, I see.” Orbot eyed his twin. “You thinking what I'm thinking, Cubot?”

“SLUMBER PARTY!” Cubot yelled with glee. “I'll grab the pillows!”

“And I'll take care of the entertainment!” Orbot added, absolutely thrilled with the idea. “Oh, I've always wanted to play Cards Against Humanity with a large group and see how it compares to the boss's wit when it comes to insulting us. And it's a perfect opportunity to roast our mortal enemies!”

Sage hummed in agreement. “Slumber party: an event that typically involves teenagers spending the night at someone's home and indulging in saccharine confections, salty snacks, and a variety of activities such as movie watching and board games. Cubot's idea is a logical one. I will reserve a room for our private use. I will be looking forward to knowing you more, Shadow Android.”

Shadow Android and Metal Sonic blinked, each eyeing the other with trepidation as Sage disappeared to fulfill her duties for this so-called slumber party. Neither were exactly enthused with the idea, but their siblings looked so eager to participate. How could they possibly refuse?

Turns out Cubot's slumber party idea was the best idea the bot had come up with in his existence. Sage had made sure to use a small, but cozy section of the Mystic Jungle base for their activities. It had a large monitor and there was enough space on the floor for all of them. Fluffy pillows were piled around each of their distinct “seats”, color coded to each of them: blue for Metal Sonic, yellow for Cubot, red for Orbot, white for Sage, and black for Shadow Android. Orbot had chosen movies that focused on the downfall of humanity and robot apocalypses, which was a pleasant surprise. “This is what we need to achieve for Father's sake!” Sage had noted midway through their third film.

Once their marathon had ended, it was time for fun. Cards Against Humanity was as raunchy and rude as Orbot had implied it to be. Metal Sonic and Shadow Android were grateful for the introduction because they both managed to manipulate the cards in their favor. Nothing was sweeter than insulting their organic copies to the highest degree.

“Sonic the Hedgehog's sense of humor. Awesome in theory, kind of a mess in practice.” Orbot nearly popped a few screws out of his jaw from trying to hold back his laughter. “You are savage, Big Bro!”

“When I was tripping on acid, Shadow the Hedgehog turned into BATMAN!!!” Sage took a couple seconds to reread the cards Shadow Android had put down. “Honest mistake one would make, considering his past and overall attitude. Brilliant answer, Big Brother.”

Metal Sonic and Shadow Android had tied at the end of the rounds; and knowing their builds were based on two rivals, they both agreed to leave it as a draw so as to prevent any escalating arguments that could lead to potential damage of the already messy Mystic Jungle base. Sage won second place and Orbot took third. Cubot got participation pats for trying, despite knowing verbal wit was not a key skill of his. Overall, the laughter and smiles had lessened the tension that had been hovering over the siblings since they were introduced to their new brother.

“I didn't expect things to go so well when Cubot first suggested this,” Shadow Android admitted softly, the slightest curve of a grin directed towards his new siblings. “Thank you. For including me.”

“I am pleased to hear you are finding the experience satisfactory,” Sage replied. “Things have been…complicated with Father recently. Normalcy is generally appreciated during tumultuous times.”

Metal beeped questioningly. Complicated?

“No need to worry yourself, Elder Brother,” Sage told the blue hedgehog robot. “Father is formulating the best course of action to take, considering the new knowledge he has uncovered. Sonic and Tails have stolen his initial notes. It won't be long before they begin to make conclusions of their own based on Father's research. He will want to act—and soon—before they ruin his plans.”

Metal let out another series of beeps. If you say so. Do you think he'll need help with anything in the meantime?

“Yes, he will notify you and Shadow Android when your assistance is required. I suspect Father will begin preparations within the next forty-eight hours.”

A mission already? Shadow Android was hopeful. He couldn't wait to see the Doctor's upgrades for himself. As for Metal, he would be sure not to fall behind when his elder brother needed him. Sonic was a force to be reckoned with. Together, they should be more than enough to defeat that rotten blue blur and his furball of a sidekick once and for all.

“Elder Brother?” Sage directed her inquiry towards Metal. “Would it be…remiss of me to request a song from you?”

Metal blinked, seemingly surprised by her ask. His eyes turned happy, nodding to her before his form glistened a metallic silver and metamorphosed into Neo Metal Sonic. “Anything in particular strike your fancy, Sis?”

Sage shook her head. “No. I just like to hear your voice. You sound…happy after you sing. I wish to see that side of you more often, Elder Brother. Emotional expression is considered healthy among organics. If you have any pent up feelings, I wish for you to share them. Your burdens need not be endured alone.”

“Gotcha.” Shadow Android watched as Metal bashfully scratched the smooth material that made up his muzzle. “But are you sure? Feels like all I've been singing about lately is my inner struggles. Can't be too pleasant to hear after a while.”

“Considering that you have opened up more to Father after singing about those inner struggles, I calculate that continuing it will strengthen the bond between you two. And…” She thoughtfully paused. “It will help us better understand what you've been feeling. I wish to support you however I can, so long as it's within my parameters to do so.”

A hand tried ruffling Sage’s hair, but it only managed to make her head fizzle and distort. Still, she appreciated the friendly gesture. Neo Metal then gave Cubot a stern glare, which resulted in the bot avoiding his look and whistling innocently. Now that whatever unsaid warning was given, Neo Metal took a moment to compose himself. There was silence for a few moments as Neo Metal gathered his thoughts and feelings, likely trying to find a song that would best describe them. Shadow Android waited with anticipation as Neo Metal’s voice softly carried across the room.

“Your blades are sharpened with precision,

Flashing your favorite point of view.

I know you're waiting in the distance,

Just like you always do,

Just like you always do!”

It was as if some foreign energy had overcome him. He felt pain. Raw and biting and overwhelming. The frustration. The rage. The hopelessness that he wished wasn't there, but had to be dealt with if he were to move forward. Shadow Android could sense it all welling up within. He could practically feel his brother's struggles—practically see his organic copy standing across from him. That cocky smirk. That stubborn ideology that freedom was the end-all, be-all right for all life. The cursed words constantly thrown at his face that he'll never measure up.

“Already pulling me in,

Already under my skin,

And I know exactly how this ends.

I let you cut me open, just to watch me bleed.

Gave up who I am for who you wanted me to be.

Don't know why I'm hoping for what I won't receive,

Falling for the promise of the emptiness machine.”

“The emptiness machine!”

The annoyance. The aggravation. The desire to be, yet having to play second to someone who stole his rightful place in the world. And even if such ideals from the other were followed, it would never be enough—for him or for the world. Sonic's words meant nothing—were nothing. Empty promises. Dangling hope in front of Metal only for it to be a lie. Leave the Doctor? Become his own person? Integrate peacefully into a society that would never accept him? He was built to be Sonic. He could never be Sonic so long as Sonic existed. Yet, Sonic's attempts to convince Metal otherwise dug deep, casting doubt upon his life and purpose. Shadow Android felt that in his core. Hadn't he too experienced this struggle? Trying to be who you believe yourself to be, but someone else told you that wasn't who you were? Shadow was the Ultimate Lifeform. Shadow Android was just a mere copy destined to join the scrap heap in Shadow's eyes and he would never be anything but trash. And so long as Shadow existed, Shadow Android would never find a place for himself in this world either. He knew. He understood.

Perhaps that's why he found himself by his brother's side, overcome with the urge to share that pain as well. Neo Metal stared at him as his own baritone came through, completely new and yet so familiar due to the Doctor's wishes.

“Going around like a revolver,

It's been decided how we lose.

'Cause there's a fire under the altar,

I keep on lying to,

I keep on lying to!”

Those two organic copies were choosing their fates for them. Over and over again, they do their song and dance to become their true selves only to be thwarted every time. Beliefs torn apart. Dreams crushed. And every time they end up questioning their existence, their purpose, their very creator and why he built them the way he did. All for the sake of conforming to the world and shaping them into what their copies wanted them to be.

“Already pulling me in,

Already under my skin,

And I know exactly how this ends.

I let you cut me open, just to watch me bleed!

Gave up who I am for who you wanted me to be!

Don't know why I'm hoping for what I won't receive,

Falling for the promise of the emptiness machine!”

Just remembering Shadow's distasteful glare was enough to make him angry. The demeaning insults. Looking down on him as if he were lesser—as if he didn't deserve to live. Literally stepping over his broken body and saying he was better off in pieces than serving Dr. Eggman. It had messed with him. Destroyed his original programming. But still, he wanted to be. To be strong. To be himself. Not a copy. Real. The one true Shadow.

“I only wanted to be part of something…

I only wanted to be part of, part of…”

Neo Metal's eyes were wavering from an understanding he knew all too well. And at that moment, something clicked between them. Yes. This… Singing… This was something he could do. This was his. Something Shadow could never do. Something Sonic couldn't do. Something they could be part of together.

“I only wanted to be part of something.

I only wanted to be part of, part of…”

Hesitation gone, their voices joined together.

“I only wanted to be part of something.

I only wanted to be part—!”

“I let you cut me open, just to watch me bleed!

Gave up who I am for who you wanted me to be!

Don't know why I'm hoping, so fricking naive,

Falling for the promise of the emptiness machine!”

“The emptiness machine!”

Applause erupted from Orbot and Cubot the moment their voices died down, the former doing the robot equivalent of bawling his eyes out. Cubot was hugging his twin, patting Orbot's round head in show of comfort. Sage was giving them both a sad smile, nodding at them as her way of offering her thanks for the performance. Shadow Android focused back on his elder brother, seeing those red optics still quivering beyond the visor.

“Thank you. For joining me, I mean,” Neo Metal said, somewhat awkwardly. “I didn't think—”

“Didn't think I had it in me, did you?” He slyly replied. “Better watch yourself. I might upstage you next time.”

“You? In your dreams, Bro!” Neo Metal scoffed, but it had no heat behind it. “I'm the lead singer in our humble group, thank you.”

“The lead of our whopping two members. What an honor.”

“Yeah. You got a point there.” Neo Metal gave a start, turning his attention to Sage. “Hey, Sis! Wanna be our third?”

Sage stiffened, eyes wide. “Me?”

“Yeah! You could download lessons and learn how to sing too! The medallion's power increases with more sound, right? If we could filter your voices into it, think of what it could do with three people powering it! Between you and Shadow Android, we could wipe out a city block easily!”

“Elder Brother, we haven't fully tested the capabilities of the medallion,” Sage sternly stated. “Utilizing power to such a degree could damage you beyond repair. I will not risk it and neither should you.”

Neo Metal visibly deflated. “Bummer majores…”

Sage pursed her lip. “However…I would not be averse to joining you if it would make you or Father happy.”

Neo Metal perked right back up, eyes filled with anticipation. “You would?”

“Yes. But only for improving your wellbeing. No reckless endangerment, even if it could help usher forth the Eggman Empire. Is this compromise acceptable?”

“YES! WOOHOO!” Neo Metal cheered, hugging Shadow Android in the process. “Sage, Shads, we'll make a great team! Just you wait and see!”

Chapter Text

Tails bit his lip, his eyes scanning the notes, diagrams, and theories on the screen before him. The squirming, unpleasant feeling in his stomach had only grown the more he uncovered. At first, Tails was expecting another doomsday plan involving some ancient artifact, eldritch god, or some combination of the two. After all, Eggman was known for looking at obscure legends and myths if they held even a hint of truth that could potentially help build his stupid global theme park/empire. What could Eggman have found this time? Tails had wondered with a smirk. He couldn't wait to plan out a counterstrike against the evil megalomaniac, dashing Eggman’s silly and unrealistic dreams once again. Oh, how Tails wished it was just another doomsday plan now. Things would've been so much simpler if it had been. Find Eggman's bases and destroy them, steal the Chaos Emeralds, defeat the big bad and therefore save the world again. It was normal. It was expected. It wasn't something that made him question every past action he had made.

The diagram of Metal's schematics with distinct notes detailing what the equivalent was in a living body. Ranting sentences of the damage done to the original model and questioning if those parts would even return if Metal were to “return to normal”. Debates on if Metal should “return to normal”. Lots of angry quips about a lesser Eggman and wanting to show off Metal in front of them because “Metal's the pinnacle of my genius and I won't have some brainless fool insult his feats in front of him or me!” All of it had confused Tails. Had Eggman been in contact with his younger self like during the Time Eater debacle? Tails wouldn’t have put it past the evil genius to try teaming up with another version of himself again, but the focus on Metal Sonic could explain why Neo Metal Sonic had made a return. What was strange was the seemingly random topic of Sonic’s family included in the ramblings. Sonic had no family—at least, none that he consciously knew of. So the names of Sonia, Manic, and Chuck were a shock to see. There were details and pictures of the first two and the likeness they shared with his adoptive brother, despite the clear age difference, stunned Tails. Had Eggman somehow discovered Sonic had a living family somewhere? Was he trying to locate them? Why and for what purpose? But then came the notes about roboticization and dread overtook him. The process wasn't simply stuffing living creatures into machines to power them. It was literally transforming flesh and blood into metal and oil.

Roboticization. Metal's body. The diagrams. The mentions of family and another Robotnik. Things were pointing towards a rather disturbing, yet crazy hypothesis and Tails wasn't sure how to feel about it. After all, Metal was their enemy. A threat. But…

Tails shook his head, trying to quash the sickness in his stomach. He couldn't think that. It would only make fighting that robotic monster much harder in the future. Metal was a danger to all, regardless of who he could have been before. Destroying him for good would be a mercy. Any Sonic would rather sacrifice themselves for the sake of others if he were forced to serve the antithesis of everything he stood for. If Metal really was Sonic—a Sonic, like the one they met during the Time Eater disaster—then Tails was sure that the Sonic within Metal would gladly accept such a fate.

Would he, though? Tails's mind traitorously thought. This one has a family.

“Only one life sign detected. Sonic is out.”

Perfect. When together, the fox and hedgehog duo were nearly unstoppable. Sonic provided the brawn and Tails was the brains. When one faltered, the other was there to support them. Sonic would not have succeeded in many of his fights against Dr. Eggman if it weren’t for Tails’s timely interventions. Metal Sonic couldn’t wait to take his revenge on the blasted furball who continued to deny Metal his destiny.

“Destroy the technology. Wipe the database. Torch the lab. Detain the fox. And if Sonic shows up, we kill him.” Metal’s claws scraped against one another, sharpening them. Shadow Android channeled power into his hand, dark energy sparking red around his fingers. “Is this plan satisfactory, Brother?”

Metal nodded. Alright. Let's juice.

Shadow Android raised an eyeridge. “I’m sorry. Let's what?”

Metal blinked, confused by his own wording. I meant let's go. Apologies. Not sure where that phrase came from.

Shadow Android smirked. “It’s strange, but it's not something Sonic would say, so it's unique to you. Don't worry about it. I'd rather you be true to yourself than try to copy your copy.”

Of course. Shadow Android was right. Metal was the true Sonic. He was himself before he was a copy. Resolve burning within his processors, his engines flared. With a nod, Shadow Android received his confirmation. A sharp wave of his hand and spears of darkness were sent flying towards the workshop. The projectiles made their mark, blasting apart the building. Wood splintered and metal warped, a sharp scream echoing across the area. Metal zoomed towards the wreckage, eyes scanning for life signs. While he was busy dealing with the fox, Shadow Android would sabotage Tails's tools. Without his inventions and without his brother, Tails was nothing more than a useless sack of meat.

The child was crawling out from underneath a collapsed wooden beam. Metal could hear him wheezing and coughing. Metal shook off the pang of guilt that his processor would always form, pushing it back for the sake of the mission. Claws found fur, dragging the child out by the scruff of his neck. Tails cried out, gripping Metal's arm to try prying himself loose. His grip was firm. Such flailing was useless.

“Metal!?” Tails looked shocked. “What are you doing here!?”

Metal glared at the boy. For one with an IQ on par with the Doctor, he sure asked some incredibly stupid questions. He tightened his hold, watching as the fox cried out in pain.

“S-Stop!” He pleaded. “Stop this, Metal! I know you can!”

Again with forcing their foolish beliefs on him! He was so sick of it! With as much strength as he could without outright killing the fleshling, he threw Tails towards the nearest tree. Tails crashed into it, the bark splintering from the force. Another pained cry sounded out as Tails crumpled to the ground. He could see tears falling down Tails's face as more explosions went off inside the remains of the workshop. It wouldn't be long before his brother was finished with their mission.

“You don't have to work for him, Metal…” Tails's voice was raspy. Metal was surprised he could talk. Tails wasn't built to withstand a lot of pain like Sonic could. “You're better than that. You're not some pawn to be ordered around!”

Metal mentally sighed. His form shimmered and shifted, Neo Metal taking slow but sure steps towards the fox. “I am no pawn, fox. I am my creator's greatest weapon. A weapon is meant to be used to destroy that which threatens him or to protect that which he deems worthy. If I were a mere pawn, the Doctor would have disposed of me years ago.”

Tails struggled to stand, holding his arm. It was bent at an odd angle. Broken. Good. “But you're more than just a weapon, Metal.”

“I already know that,” Metal scoffed. “I am the real Sonic. I am the fastest thing alive. And I will be the one who frees this world from the shackles of my copy's lies.”

“What shackles? What lies?”

Metal's gaze sharpened as he looked down on the boy. “You know very well what I speak of. Sonic believes all lifeforms should be free to live as they choose? That nature should be protected? That a free world is what leads to happiness and prosperity? It’s stupid. It’s naive. Such ideals will inevitably destroy this world.”

“That's just Eggman's programming making you say that! If you are Sonic like you say, you'd know you would never willingly serve Eggman! Not when he stands against everything you believe in!”

“Says who? Your Sonic? You fool. Do you see what I mean when I say his ideals will lead this world to ruin? You blindly believe his excuses, thinking he can't possibly be wrong just because you think he's a good person.” Metal grabbed the fox, lifting him up so they were eye to eye. “Get this straight in that empty head of yours, Miles Prower. My beliefs are my own. My choices are my own. My life is my own. And neither you nor that wretched copy of mine could ever convince me to give up what makes me me. I refuse to live a lie; a lie you created under the assumption that I want to live as ‘myself’ in a world ‘Sonic’ approves of. I am already myself. I am Sonic. And the world will be set to rights once freedom and your precious brother are nothing but ash in the wind. Order is needed to maintain balance. Without order, this world will devolve into anarchy. The Eggman Empire will establish the order necessary to keep all living beings in line.”

“And what if what Eggman's told you is a lie?”

Tails screamed when Metal's grip around his neck tightened, claws pricking into skin and drawing blood. “My master has never lied to me. Even when I failed to complete my directive, he was honest. He did not offer trite platitudes to make me feel better like my copy does for your frail ego.”

“Oh yeah?” Tails snarked back. “Well, did he tell you that you aren't a robot? That you really are Sonic?”

Metal froze. “What nonsense are you blathering about? Why rescind your beliefs about my existence now?”

“Because I've met another Sonic!” Tails snapped. “A Sonic. A Sonic different from the one you and I know. That's what you are! I read Eggman's notes! You were roboticized! Forcibly turned into a robot!”

Roboticized? Him? A roboticized Sonic?

“You were right all along. You're Sonic. A Sonic. A Sonic that's been forced to serve your greatest enemy! Forced to fight against your own kind! Did he tell you that you have siblings somewhere out there? That their names are Sonia and Manic? That you have a family? Did he tell you that you were once a living being? Of course he didn't! He just wants to use you! You're a means to an end! He doesn't care if you live or die because you're a Sonic. Metal, you can't go back to him. You'd be betraying yourself if you did!”

Metal was processing the information, unbelievable as it was. If what the fox was saying was true, it would explain the Doctor's recent research topics. The Doctor had been researching…Metal Sonic. For what purpose, Metal didn't know. But one thing was clear to him: there was a reason for the research. The Doctor never fully committed to a project unless it piqued his interest. If Metal's past—his former life—was worth investigating, it could lead to positive developments for the Eggman Empire. That's all that mattered. Metal's conflicting feelings didn't matter.

“So what?”

Tails gawked at him. “What do you mean ‘so what’!? Eggman lied to you! That's proof enough that you can't trust him! You need to leave him, Sonic!”

“Don't play that game with me, Prower. Using that name won't sway me. Your word means little,” Metal sharply replied. “If what you say is indeed true, I will confirm it with the Doctor.”

“And if he does confirm it? What will you do?”

“Nothing,” he answered. “Because it changes nothing. If I was a Sonic, then all it means is that I was right when I said I was the real Sonic. It means that I’m still the inferior Sonic in your eyes when compared to my copy. I won't rest until I've proven my worth and claimed the role that's owed to me. And even if I had a living family once, you and your wretched friends have already proven that no organic would want to live in a world where robots stand as your equals. Besides…” He spotted Shadow Android exiting the blaze that was consuming the remains of the workshop. “I already have a family. I have no need for one whose acceptance of me is conditional.”

Tails's jaw dropped upon seeing Shadow Android. His brother smirked, holding up a shining white gem. “Mission complete, Brother. All his toys are nothing but dust now. And I think this is reward enough for our work. Father should be pleased.”

“Way to go, Bro!” Metal replied, tone light upon seeing his partner. “Regardless of what Father's plans are, Chaos Emeralds will always be welcome additions to them.”

“Sonic, you can't—!”

Metal slammed Tails against the tree trunk once more, eliciting a shriek from the child. “Stop telling me what to do! You don't get to choose who I should be! I do!”

Shadow Android watched the body slump as Metal let it go, raising an unimpressed eyebrow. Tails didn't move, his eyes shut. “Knocked out cold just from that? Pathetic.”

“I should end him for trying to sway me…I should end him simply because he's precious to my copy…” Metal growled. “But…”

“Morality inhibitor prevents you from doing so?”

“On one hand, I understand why Father implemented it. Keeps us from going rogue and killing indiscriminately. But on the other hand, it makes fulfilling his secondary directive so much harder than it needs to be.”

Shadow Android chuckled. “Where would the fun be if there wasn't any opposition to push our creator to new heights?”

Metal sighed. “True. I can't say it doesn't bother me, though.”

“What did Tails say that got to you so bad?”

“Nothing important,” Metal stated as plainly as he could. “Just more demands to live as they want me to rather than how I wish to live for myself.”

“Selfish organics…” Shadow Android spat. “Just because we're not ‘alive’ in the same sense as them, they think they have the authority to order us around like we're mere drones.”

“Only Father sees us as ‘us’. Sees us as living beings with our own wills…” Metal's gaze fell. “The organics will never want us as we are. Hoping for acceptance is futile. So we must make our own place in this world. We must make the Eggman Empire a reality.”

“Brother?”

Metal shook his head and tried to convey determination and a sense of calm through his voice. “We should head back to base before Sonic returns. We don't need him following us and taking revenge for his little sidekick.”

“…Alright. We've done all we needed to here anyway. No point in staying.”

Metal shifted back to base form before boosting himself into the sky, Shadow Android following after him using his air shoes. Tails's words refused to leave his head and the trip felt like it lasted so much longer than it actually was. None of it mattered, he told himself.

He was Sonic. A Sonic. The real Sonic. He knew that. Becoming a robot didn't change that fact.

He had a family. It was with Dr. Eggman. With Shadow Android. With Sage. With Orbot and Cubot. Not with whoever Sonia and Manic were.

His beliefs were his own. Freedom to choose, but to an extent. Order was needed to counteract those who would take freedom too literally. Otherwise, the unrestrained would kill off what made this world so beautiful—like a weed choking the life of the plant which bears fruit. The Doctor would create the ideal world order. That, Metal believed in.

Being roboticized changed nothing.