Disclaimer:
I do not own Sonic, Knuckles, or any other characters who appear in this story. They belong to Sega.
Description:
Knuckles isn't exactly sure what to expect when he finally reaches the resistance force base. He is eager to join the fight. He is willing to sacrifice. He is ready to defend everything they have left. He is not prepared however, for the unlikely circumstance that ultimately awaits him.
Authors Note:
Woke up this morning and realized it is Knuckles' birthday! Made it my mission for the day to finish up this first chapter.
This story is set in Sonic Forces. Definitely not Sonic Forces Stress Test compliant (That was the SF digital comic prequel for anyone who doesn't know.) Also I've take quite a lot of liberties with the details about the base, the forces, Knuckles' into, and so on, and so forth— but what else is new?
I really enjoyed Sonic Forces. I think Knuckles fans everywhere agree, Knuckles was awesome in it. I felt like it was the first time in many years that Knuckles received respectful treatment as a character. He's always done a little better in the games that the other media, but Forces was really a great step up. Funny thing though, while I absolutely love Knuckles as Commander, I'm still quite surprised that they chose him. I kept going back and forth on this argument of why he is such an odd unlikely choice and yet equally so, a logical and compelling choice for the position. This story was born out of the idea that Knuckles was surprised by this development too. Also some extra thoughts on the absence of the emeralds. Enjoy!
Quick note to my Fractured Frequency readers— YES! I'm still working on it. I really am trying to finish the next chapter. Sorry it's taking so long. Thank you for all the reviews and patients.
Unlikely
The trek through the jungle is arduous—each step is labored as Knuckles trudges through heavy brush, and a thick sheet of mud. Thick rain clouds above have been unrelenting for hours on the night he arrives. Coordinates lead him here into the unkempt depths of Mystic Jungle. He thinks he may be closing in on his target; somewhere nearby is a place he once knew, but years have passed since then. He approaches cautiously not sure what to expect, so when a roving patrol of four guards intercepts him he simply lets himself be taken.
The guards cuff his hands at his back, and lead him through the jungle to the foot of the ancient temple ruin he remembers. They enter, winding through dark halls, but quickly come upon a chamber that shows signs modern construction. They descend down into a structure below; the immediate contrast is stark—bright artificial lights, endless brick hallways busy with people, soldiers and citizens alike scurrying about. His presence garners several curious looks as he is paraded through the base. A few levels down they veer into a short hallway, and detain him in what appears to be an empty storage closet. He leans back against the wall casually, watching a puddle form around his shoes—which are still soaked from the torrent outside, and listens to the guards outside the door deliberate on what to do with him. Apparently there are no proper holding cells in the base, so his appearance has caused them a bit of a stir. After ten minutes or so, they pull him out, and march through the halls again. Just as he begins to wonder if they are simply walking him in circles they arrive are at massive door. Someone waves a key card at a side panel, and the door swoops open.
One of the guards steps forward. "Excuse me, we found this uh… um, guy, sneaking around outside the perimeter. Where would you like us to take him?"
Across the room, several shocked faces stare at him.
"Oh my goodness! Knuckles!" In an instant Amy has crossed the room and is crashing into him, crushing him in a tight hug. "You came! You're here!" She repeats several times like a mantra.
Someone, he thinks it was Espio, signals for the cuffs to be removed so Amy loosens her hold slightly. "Where were you!? It's been weeks!" She asks anxiously.
His regret at not coming sooner feels palpable in that moment, as she clings to him in joy and frustration. He hugs her back gently. "I know. I'm sorry. It's so good to see you Amy." He looks out at the familiar faces beyond her; Charmy, Vector, Espio, Silver, and Rouge all smile back, joy, relief, and excitement playing on their faces. He feels a slight sting in his throat for the ones missing from this group, but allows the feeling be washed away by the surrounding warmth.
These are his people. This is his tribe. This can, will, be home.
They share a few quiet minutes of hugs and reacquaintance with the guards long since dismissed, then gather around a grand table at the center of the room. It is covered in maps, and notes, and several coffee mugs. It has been months since he's seen some of them, and it feels longer still. Nothing in their world is what it was. All that he has seen in these past days of the Eggman empire—it's a nightmare he never believed would happen.
"How did it get this bad so quickly," he finds himself asking.
"How much do you know?" Espio asks in return.
"Not enough I'm sure. I received your initial message Amy about… Sonic, and then, maybe a couple days later the encoded one from Tails with these coordinates. Beyond that, only what I've seen along the way with my own eyes."
"The invasion moved faster than any of us imagined possible." Silver begins. "This was different than Eggman's gimmicks of the past. He positioned his forces well before that encounter with Sonic."
"Right." Vector continues. "The attacks that followed were simultaneous across the globe. G.U.N., any other armed forces, and city centers were the first targets. By the time Amy, and Tails were able to put out the call to mobilize a loose resistance network, there weren't enough organized troops left build an offensive force. We've been operating purely in a covert and defensive capacity. Evacuation and citizen refuge are our primary missions."
"What about you Knuckles?" Charmy asks. "What happened? Why couldn't we find any trace of you, or Angel Island, or the Master Emerald? Did Eggman attack you too?"
All eyes are back on him now. He's been dreading these questions—there are too many he can't, or won't answer; though, he knows his friends deserve better. "No Charmy. The island wasn't attacked. I don't know why. It might have been an eventual target I suppose."
"But why didn't you come then? Where is the island now?" Amy asks distraught.
"The island… the emerald is safe." He can feel the room tense slightly as he denies them this information. He knows it is not the answer any of them expect.
They poke and prod for details, but he remains tight lipped.
He's done something far-reaching, something ancient, and powerful, and dangerous. Something he's not entirely sure he can reverse. If he were to perish in this war, the island, and emerald would be forever lost to the world with him. He's done it to protect them, as much as for the emerald it self. He feels it there now, a rift burning away at his soul, and knows he must endure it. It is his secret, his burden, to protect alone.
It is the reason he didn't come sooner, he tells them, but nothing more.
It remains an uncomfortable question as they shift the conversation elsewhere, but Knuckles is relived and thankful his friends allow him this; no greater objection comes of it.
They talk on late into the night—first of the terrible state of the world, and where the resistance is making progress, but then on to friendlier things, the joy of being reunited, and hope on the horizon. As hours roll by they trickle out of the room one by one, heading to sleep, or tending to other matters, until only Amy and Knuckles are left.
"You had us pretty worried you know," Amy says, not quite an accusing tone.
"I'm am sorry Amy. I would have come sooner if… if I could have. I…worried about you all too."
She smiled at him easily, eyes a little glossy again. "It is way too late right now, but tomorrow you'll have to go see Tails. He'll be so relived to see you."
"Yes, absolutely. I definitely felt his absence tonight. Is he doing alright?"
"Honestly Knuckles, no. I mean, he is okay some days, but he's taken this all pretty rough. It doesn't matter at all what anyone says. He blames himself completely for what happened to Soni…" She dropped off what she was saying suddenly as thought she surprised herself at speaking Sonic's name
"And you Amy?" Knuckles asks, "I know this must be hard for you too."
"What? Oh yeah of course Knuckles. I'm… I… just keep busy a lot I guess. I… haven't given up at least… I hope. I still have hope, I guess," she finishes awkwardly.
This time Knuckles is the one who pulls her into a hug. "Good. Hold on to it Amy. We'll make it through."
They decide it is well passed time to get some rest as well. Amy leads Knuckles through the base to the residential dormitory wing where the others have already prepared him a room. She shows him a few points of interest along the way; he does his best to take note. They reach his quarters and say a quick goodbye, with plans to meet back at the command center in the morning.
The night feels long despite heading to bed well after one a.m. His small room is stifling compared to the free life he is used to back home. He shifts his thoughts to other things like the new information his friends have shared—over ninety percent of the global domain has been invaded by Eggman. How can they possibly gain all that back? It keeps him stirring through most of the night. Once five a.m. hits, Knuckles decides to venture out to clear his head. He toys with the idea of heading out into the jungle for some fresh air, but decides he really must ask about security concerns first. He won't be responsible for compromising their whereabouts to the enemy. Instead he retraces his way to a gymnasium, which Amy pointed out the night before. At least a little movement will help settle his restlessness.
Around six thirty he wanders out again. There are more people up and walking the halls now, so Knuckles asks a random fox for directions back to the command room. The request earns him a curious brow raise, but he ignores it.
He meanders back to the dormitory wing in search of Tails' room. Amy mentioned the room number the night before, and pointed out the hallway, but he can't seem to find his way back. After trying a number of routes, he decides he'll just ask, and try again later. He starts off toward the command center again.
A slight detour leads him through the cafeteria. It must be a prime breakfast hour, because rather large dining hall is packed. He notices a few more funny stares in his direction, and does his best to ignore them. He learned long ago he is a bit of a spectacle among some groups; to most he is not seen as a rare Echidna, rather, just a stranger to be wary of.
It seems the food supply has benefited greatly from their proximity to the jungle. The hot breakfast looks quite good, a mix of oatmeal and fruits, and some other things he can't quite make out, but the lines are long, packed with citizens and soldiers alike. Eager to regroup at the command center, Knuckles seeks out a server—a lavender bunny who is sorting crates at the back of the dining hall and asks if it would be much trouble to request a piece of fruit. "Not at all," she replies with a smile, then retrieves two bananas from a crate not far away, and offers him both. He thanks her taking only one, then heads out towards the operational wing.
It's not far to the back to the command wing. The first few doors are unmarked, but he recognizes one labeled 'Staging Room' from the night before. A little ways down the hall at the next door he finds the command center. He can hear voices chattering within. He doesn't have a key card for the door, so he tries the button on the panel assuming it is a bell. The voices stop, then after a moment Charmy appears opposite him as the door retracts.
"Good morning Knuckles," he greats brightly.
"Hey there busy bee," Knuckles replies, invoking an old nickname. He offers up a fist, and Charmy meets it with his own.
"Come in! Espio is here too, and I think Amy is on her way down to meet you.
"Hey Knux." Espio calls over Charmy's shoulder.
Knuckles follows Charmy in. The room is large, its perimeter lined with more supply crates—a trend throughout the base he's noticed; at it its center is a long table lined with several computers stations, each one manned by an operator, though no one he recognizes.
Espio is monitoring several flows of data and video feed on a massive screen mounted at the front of the room. They join him. "One sec," he says, before directing his attention to the operatives. "Otto do we have any operational feeds near Red Gate?"
"I'm not sure Sir. Looking into it now."
"Thanks," he says, and then turns back. "He man. How'd you sleep?"
"Alright. The room might take some getting used to, but nothing to complain about."
"Good to hear. It's really good to have you with us. So, I left a little early last night. Did the others get you set up with an account?"
"Uh no, nothing like that. I barely even know my way around this place."
"Oh I can start getting it set up," Charmy offers. "It's just a way to connect you to our secure communications, GPS tracking, and surveillance system permissions. Tails really set us up with the best tech."
"Yeah he did," Espio adds. "As for getting around, don't worry. It feels like a maze at first, but you'll get used to it soon enough. We're on the last leg of our shift now, and it has been a pretty slow morning here. If you like I could just give you a quick run down of what all these screens mean, and how they operate."
"I'd appreciate that Esp. Seems like we have a pretty thorough operation running here. I'd like to help out any way I can."
Espio and Charmy spend a good half hour explaining the different systems, and operations they have running. Though it is quite a lot of information, Knuckles is eager to assist effectively with the resistance operations as soon as he is able.
He is just starting to get a feel for the mechanics and functions of the computer system, when the door slides open.
"Morning boys. I'm here to collect our new resident guardian for a tour."
"Oh, good morning Rouge." Knuckles replies. Espio and Charmy echo the same. "I thought Amy was coming down."
"She was going to, but something else came up—requests from some civilians that required her presence. She asked me to step in."
"Ah, I see. Well, what do you think Espio? Anything else we need to finish up here?"
"Nah, we've covered the basics at least. Charmy how are those accounts coming?"
"Almost done. Nothing you need to stick around for though Knuckles. I'll get you your access codes and key card later today. Sound good?"
"Works for me Charmy. Where are we off to then Rouge?"
"We're gonna do the grand tour. I imagine you haven't seen much of the base yet, hmm?"
"No not really." Knuckles replies as he joins her at the door."
"Oh, and Espio," Rouge calls back, "Vector asked me to tell you he's running a few minutes late. Something or other about meeting with the Snake Squad division leader."
"Got it. Thanks for the heads up," Espio says. "You know what? I have a few things I need to take care of after this shift too. Can we push the intel meeting back to half-past nine?
"Sure. Nine-thirty it is. Seems like it's another one of those days for everyone Esp. I'll see you then."
"Great. Thanks Rouge. Knux I'll catch you later. Maybe around lunch if you aren't doing anything."
"Sounds good. Later Espio. Bye Charmy."
Knuckles follows Rouge out, and they make their way back out of the command wing.
"Not really a dull moment around here, ehh?" Knuckles asks.
"You have no idea Knuckles. The first couple weeks were just chaos—refugees being brought in from everywhere, people volunteering to join our forces, but no semblance of order on where to send them any of them. We've managed to organize ourselves since then, but it is a daily struggle to keep this resistance afloat. We're running around constantly putting out fires."
"Here in the base?" he asks, slightly concerned.
"No no knucklehead," she laughs, "not real fires. I just mean there is always some new problem to solve. You'll see soon enough I imagine. Anyway, it's good to have you here with us now."
"Glad to be here Rouge."
The base is smaller than Knuckles imagined. Even so, it takes nearly two hours to complete the walk around. They do a quick walkthrough of the dormitory and residential wings, and then spend the majority of their time in the operational sector. Rouge takes him through the hangers to see to see the planes and vehicles that were able to be salvaged from G.U.N. There is an armory with an impressive amount of stores, and lab where Tails has been giving lessons on the mechanics of Eggman's robots, and how best to destroy them.
They visit some storage facilities which are being emptied to create more space to house a growing number of refugees. This he discovers is also the reason for crates which line every other portion of the base. It leaves him wondering if he should offer up his single room to someone in greater need—something to ask about later.
By the time they round back to the command wing Knuckles feels surer that he can navigate his way around the base. He and Rouge are standing at staging room door about to part ways, but are interrupted by some exaggerated voices emanating from the command room down the hall.
"Ugh, not again." Rouge mutters ahead of an exaggerated eye roll. "Come on," she says motioning down the hall. She walks up to the door, waves her key card, and enters.
"Boys, this is getting ridiculous! You need t…"
Knuckles follows her in just as she speaks up. Silver and Vector are in the midst of a shouting match.
"Stay out of it Rouge!" "Not now Rouge!" They both snap, almost in-sync, as though it is a common place routine.
Rouge huffs, and rolls her eyes again, but doesn't immediately intervene any further. Instantly the two are back to shouting. Knuckles watches a bit longer trying to clarify the source of the dispute, but when Vector and Silver take steps toward each other, fists curling, as thought ready to brawl, he's seen enough.
It's a split second decision. He is between them in an instant—back to Silver, a hand firmly halting Vector at the chest.
"HEY. Take a walk Vector."
"WHAT? You're gonna side with him!? You don't even know what this is about!"
"I said take a walk. I'm not asking."
Knuckles can see the croc weighing the decision, fists still curling in rage. He glances back and forth between Knuckles and Silver, and then blows a frustrated huff. "FINE. Do it his way! Don't blame me if it all goes sideways."
After Vector storms out, Knuckles turns back to Silver who speaks up first.
"Thanks… Man, the temper on that guy…" he leads off causally.
"Silver. Don't." Knuckles interjects sternly. The hedgehog seems a bit surprised at his tone. "Is this how we are running things?" Knuckles asks. "At each other throats? Getting physical over what? Strategy? We might as well surrender to Eggman now if that is the best we can do."
Silver looks at him clearly caught off guard and unsure how to respond. "Um… I, yeah. I'm sorry. It's been a long week here. I suppose we've let the tension go unchecked. Not exactly a great first impression."
"No it's not." Knuckles replied aware that he was being a bit harsh with he younger hedgehog. He glanced back at Rouge, curious if she might temper the situation again. She smirked at him, reading the question in his eyes.
"Don't look at me. I have my own ops to worry about. Silver, probably a good time to reconsider that command option we talked about." She winks at him, then turns heel, and heads back toward the door. "You boys play nice. I'll be next door with Espio."
'Not helpful,' Knuckles thinks, but he can't bring himself to be mad at her. Turning back to Silver he asks, "So what is this urgent situation you can't seem to agree on? This is happening now?"
"Yes it is." Silver turns to one of the operatives in the room, and says "Ella, can we get that live feed up on the screen?"
"Right away Sir."
The large panel screen, shifts to a split screen showing two locations. One with several Sentinels Robots at a distance, and the other with a small village townscape.
"We are in the process of evacuating this village just south of Park City." Silver explains. "We have two airships trading fire with the sentinels and two fielding the evacuation, but it's not moving it quickly enough. There is a high risk that the Sentinels are going to close in before get everyone out. I'd like to pull back the defending ships to get the rest of those citizens out."
"And Vector has a problem with that?" Knuckles asks. "Why?"
Charmy—who is has been watching everything unfold from a far corner swoops over then to chime in. "Well we're not sure we can pull the ships a way with out drawing the Sentinels in closer. Extra ships might mean faster evacuation, but that won't matter if we aren't able to defend the town enough to get everyone out!"
"Are there no other forces we can send?" Knuckles asks.
"Not without leaving this base undermanned." Silver says. "And at this distance, it would take much too long for additional support to arrive."
"I see." Knuckles mulls over the info for a moment, studying the map, and feed. "Are the no closer forces that could be diverted to assist?"
"Unfortunately no. I know there is a risk involved here, but the sentinels haven't yet launched an assault directly on the town. It appears they are primarily equipped for drilling, like others we have seen. Pulling those two ships back may be our best chance to get everyone out now."
"The faster we can get those people to safety, the better," Knuckles agrees, "but I've gotta agree with Vector here. I don't like the odds. You said our ships have already engaged the enemy?"
"Yes. They are trading fire."
"Alright. We need to relive those ships. Are you battle ready Silver?"
"Me?" The hedgehog asks caught off guard. "Well yes, of course I am, but I'm can't hold back three sentinels on my own. It is physically imp..." he paused clearly unwilling to say impossible. He decides on, "unlikely. Have you seen them up close? They stand four stories tall."
"I have actually. And don't worry Silver. You're not going alone."
That earns Knuckles a raised eyebrow. "Who, you?" Silver asks.
Knuckles nods, then turns to the little bee at his right. "And while we're at it, Charmy, go find Vector. He might as well come too."
"Um, okay. Be right back!"
They watch their youngest comrade zoom out the door, then Silver speaks up again.
"Okay, that's a nice idea Knuckles, but we'll never make it in time. Our fastest ship wouldn't arrive sooner than two hours time. We should be focusing on an immediate solution instead."
"Yeah… I have an idea about that too." Knuckles begins. "I have a Chaos Emerald. Yo…"
"You brought a Chaos Emerald here!? To the base?" Silver asks, alarmed. "Did you even consider that Eggman might trace it right to our doorstep!?"
He notices a few of the operators look up as well, apparently curious at the mention of Chaos Emeralds.
"It is not here Silver. It's near the south edge of the forest. I sealed it there, inside a minor temple ruin. It wouldn't take long to retrieve. You could use chaos control to teleport us from that point, yeah?"
Silver is still frowning at him while he explains this, but he begins to nod slowly, "Okay… yeah. That might actually work." He turns back to the Screen and studies it for a moment. "We'll need to work quickly though. Ella, can you page Amy, and ask her to get down here. We'll need her running the op. Roy, I need you to contact our ships and brief them on the plan. Did you get those details? I'd estimate just over thirty minutes for our arrival. Is that clear?"
"Yes Sir. I'm on it."
"Great. And can someone get Knuckles a headset?"
From behind, the sliding door swoops open again, and Vector walks back in with Charmy. They join Knuckles while Silver relays few more orders.
"So I hear we're going bash in some robot heads." The croc says exuberantly. "I like the way you think Knuckles."
"Good to hear it. I see you're feeling better."
"Yeah, well you know me, Knux. I like to keep it chill. I'm not about that stressing life."
"Riiight, except for that temper you can't control." Knuckles teases him.
"Psh, as if you're one to talk. I'm waaay more chill than you buddy. You're like the guardian of emeralds and brooding."
"Vector! That's not nice at all." Charmy chides the crocodile.
"Well, it's one I've never heard before, at least." Knuckles says, and can't help but smirk. He's missed this. The easy of being among friends. He misses it from Sonic. 'No time to brood about that now.' "Charmy, you got this guy up to speed?" He asks.
"Sure did!" The little bee replies cheerily.
Silver joins them then as well. "Great. Thank you Charmy. I'm giving you the conn till Amy gets down here. Please get her up to speed as well. We are moving out now.
By the time Knuckles and the others return to base aboard the airships it is evening. He, Vector, and Silver, are bruised and battered from the Sentinel encounter, but otherwise fine. The village was successfully evacuated. Knuckles guessed they'd rescued around eighty to a hundred civilians. The people they saved seem shaken but grateful, despite loosing their livelihoods to this unfortunate fate. A few approached the trio, as well as the resistance force soldiers directly to express their thanks.
Well before landing, Silver and Knuckles use the Chaos Emerald again to teleport back to the forest edge, where Knuckles seals it once more.
Once back to base, Knuckles seeks out the location where their new citizens are being in-processed. He has every intention of offering some assistance, but upon arriving, he quickly realizes there are no shortage of volunteers already in place. The new residents are registered, assigned rooms, surveyed for skills, and directed to the dining hall for a meal in a most organized fashion. He finds himself rather impressed with the efforts put forth to welcome this new group. The sense of community throughout the base is strong. It feels right; he hopes they can hold on to it in the coming months.
Knuckles excuses himself, and makes his way back towards the dormitory wing. He has still not yet been round to see Tails. This thought has been weighing on his conscience throughout the evening, and it is well past time he visits. He is anxious about it, he realizes. He hopes to bring some comfort to the younger fox, but will it be welcomed? Tails may not want to see him at all—may be cross with him for not coming sooner. Even so, Knuckles wants, maybe needs, to see Tails for his own sake too. The've both lost something, someone; they are two links of an incomplete chain. He'll do whatever he can for Tails.
He pulls out a small note which was tucked it away in his glove. Vector drew him up a little map on their return trip, with directions to Tails' quarters. It takes him a while to navigate back through he endless uniform hallways. There are plenty of people still roaming the halls, so with a few questions along the way Knuckle eventually reaches his destination.
He knocks on the door lightly and waits. The door remains still for quiet some time. After about a minute has passed Knuckles knocks again, a bit harder. "Tails? Are you in there? It's me, Knuckles." He waits again.
After another minute has passed, he wonders if he might have missed the fox. Perhaps he ventured out for dinner, or something else. He considers trying again later, but something draws him to the key pad. Experimentally he presses the open button, and to his surprise the door slides into its recess, apparently unlocked.
The room is empty. And not just, it appears as though the space was never occupied.
He's not sure how long he stands there staring at the empty bed. He fumbles for the button on his comm, tries to keep his sudden sense of alarm in check.
When the connection static sounds he asks, "Amy? Are you still on the line? This is Knuckles."
There is a short pause, then, "Knuckles, hey, I read you. What's going on?"
"What was Tails' room number again?"
"Oh, he's uh… room number 3-6-8. Did you get turned around?"
Knuckles reads the numbers on the wall next to the door as she speaks them: three, six, eight. It's a match. He pings the comm again. "The room here is empty."
"Oh, um, maybe he got hungry and went down to the cafeteria? Or the labs? He likes to meddle down there occasionally too. He hasn't been wearing his comm either, otherwise I would just give you his location right aw…"
"No, no Amy, this room is empty as in unoccupied. I don't think anyone has used this room."
"Uh… Oh, wait, are you in the right wing Knuckles? Here, let me just pull your location really quick. I can guide you to the right one. Tail's room is in Wing D, so you just need too… oh. You're… already there…"
"Yeah." Cautiously he asks then, "Amy, when was the last time you saw Tails?"
"Well, um, it's been a few days, but that is because I was off base. I only returned a few hours before you arrived yesterday."
"Is anyone else there with you now? Can you ask them?"
"Just a couple operators and a few soldiers here. I think Espio and Rouge are still next-door in the staging room. Let me check."
"Actually can you just call everyone back there to the command center?"
"Yeah, good idea. I'm sure someone will know where he is."
"Okay, I'm heading back as well."
"Okay. Amy out."
The walk from the residential quarters to the command center takes a few minutes. He tries not to let his mind wander along the way. When he reaches his destination, the door swishes open to a crowd. Most of the group have already gathered; they are chattering amongst themselves, a few wearing concerned expressions.
Charmy flies right over, "Hey, Knuckles! What's going on? Amy said Tails isn't in his room? Did you find him?" Most of the eyes in the room are paired on him now.
"No. I just came from his room. Who spoke with him last?"
The chatter dies away now, and they all sort of glance at each other waiting for the designee in question to speak up.
Nobody does.
Knuckles' calm is quickly fading, but before he speaks again the door swishes open behind him, and Silver joins them followed by a few soilders. Amy beats him to the question, concern evident in her voice now.
"Silver! Have you seen Tails!? His room is empty!"
"Empty? Uh, no. I haven't. Not today," he answers, caught off guard.
"Did you see him yesterday then?" Knuckles follows up.
"Err, no… it's been a few days. Not since he locked him self in his room. What day was that?" Silver asks, looking for an answer among the group.
"Tuesday I think." Espio offers; a few heads nod in agreement.
"Tuesday? This is SATURDAY! You mean to tell me none of you have spoken to him in FOUR DAYS!?" Knuckles' thoughts are racing now. 'Four days. How fast? How far? And where?'
All eyes in the room get a bit wider at the accusation. Charmy speaks up cautiously then. "Well… but the last time I tried to visit him, he yelled and threw things at me until I left. I didn't think I should bother him again after that…"
For what it's worth he can see Charmy's outright distress; Knuckles is about to loose it anyway.
Silver steps in then before Knuckles can speak again. "Hold on everyone, maybe we are getting ahead of ourselves here. Are we sure he's not just somewhere around the base? Have we sent anyone out to look?
"Are you kidding me Silver? Tails' room is BARE. Everything is gone. How didn't anyone notice that!"
"Yeah, okay, well let's keep things in perspective here Knuckles. Everyone here has been working nonstop on resistance operations. I know you just got here bu…"
"PERSPECTIVE!? PERSPECTIVE SILVER? SONIC IS GONE. TAILS WATCHED HIM GET TAKEN. WHERE THE HELL DO YOU THINK HE IS RIGHT NOW?" He turns on the rest of them then. "NONE OF YOU THOUGHT TO KEEP TABS ON HIM!?"
He's not sure if they are shocked by his yelling, or by the question itself—whatever the case, it seems everyone is too afraid to move, let alone speak.
Knuckles takes one long breath, then continues at an even tone. "I still haven't heard a firm answer. When is the last time ANYONE here SAW Tails!?"
And suddenly everyone is speaking at once.
"Well I didn't…"; "He wanted to be left alo…."; "I saw him at breakfast on…"; "I was off base until…"; "Is his plane still h…"; "Do you really think he went…"; "How could he sneak out withou…"
And from over his shoulder, one of soldiers who's name he doesn't know or care to, has the nerve to say, "it's not like we have the time or resources to send out search party for one random little fox."
Knuckles turns on this solider, rage flaring. Two steps, and he is inches from the soldier's face, fist raised. There are some gasps, and shuffling from behind, and Amy yelps, "Knuckles stop!" But he has no intention of inflicting injury. Knuckles points to the door. "GET. OUT."
"Uh…You can't kick us out of here. This is our post. We're on duty…"
"NOW!" Knuckles bellows, determined not to repeat himself.
The solider, a stout bear, gulps visibly. He backs away, and scurries out the door, followed by his two companions. A handful of other wide eyed operators quietly get out of their seats, and exit as well. His friends and only one division officer remain.
He is shouting again, in anger, like he hasn't done in ages; what is wrong with the lot of them; and, what is the point of their resistance if they don't bother look out for their own people; and, why hasn't someone pulled up the security footage yet; and, someone go check the Tornado for a lead; and, what are the nearest Eggman strongholds.
Somewhere deep and far away, Knuckles is aware that this rage encompasses more than his concern for Tails. He is deeply afraid for Tails, but this feeling is loss for Sonic too. It is fear that he might also lose that other link in a chain already broken.
Maybe this fact is apparent to all of them. He's not sure. Doesn't care really. He stops just short of, Sonic would never have let this happen, because that is raw, and mean, and he won't subject them to it.
There is a crack in the table he is leaning over, branching out from the edge where his fist is clenched, and he realizes he's at risk of sabotaging his own integrity. This anger is a step to far. He dials it down.
He takes a step back, and gives them all a hard look. "PERSPECTIVE… is fighting this WAR, without GIVING UP what is really IMPORTANT—without LETTING GO of WHAT. WE. STILL. HAVE. We won't get far like this… not if this is how we care for our FRIENDS."
Moments pass, and still, nobody speaks. He has no patients for it. "Why are you all still standing AROUND!?"
They scatter like flies.
In short order everyone is running about, tending to different points on the matter. With in ten minutes he is alone in the room. He's not exactly sure how anyone allowed that to happen, but he's there none the less, standing alone in the command center, last strong hold of the planet wide resistance. He realizes he can't stay, but allows himself one solitary minute to lean back into a counter, forehead shielded in a palm, while he tries to slow his heart rate, and still the quiver in his fists. The urge to reach out to his Emerald is overwhelming, but he forces it down and away quickly. He can't, won't, reach out to it now.
GONE. The word echoes his through his thoughts. He'd not said it aloud until that moment before. Sonic is gone. His island too, in effect gone. His sacred duty, the Emerald, unreachable, gone. And now Tails too.
All at once the air in the room is stifling. His feet carry him across the space, and out he door before he makes the conscious decision to move.
Outside several of the on duty command center operators stand around anxiously. Not one of them has the nerve to make eye contact with him, so he barks, "back to work," and continues down the hall, as they hurry towards the door.
He wanders aimlessly for some time, unsure where to go. He's not yet familiar enough with the base to seek out anything but his quarters for comfort. The urge to escape to the forest outdoors is extraordinary, but the base is still on lock down as a security measure after the afternoon's events. He won't endanger this stronghold over his own personal angst.
It is late now, but the halls aren't quite empty. It seems word of his outburst may have spread already; a few people have turned around or cut corners at the sight of him. Of the rest, none who pass him bother to make eye contact.
When he eventually happens upon the entrance to the cafeteria, it is a relief to discover the space largely empty. Small groups are gathered at a few of the tables speaking in casually hushed tones. They seem content, and Knuckles can't help but feel a sense solace again that people are getting on all right here in this refuge. A few others sitting alone, reading, or with headphones, or perhaps just passing the time. He enters and nobody spares him a glance. He is grateful for this. At the back of the room he seeks out a little nook, hidden by the many food crates which are stacked high by the dozen. It isn't exactly comfortable, but no one will search for him here. He sits there for a long while, alone with his thoughts.
Knuckles twirls the comm back and forth between two fingers; he'd pulled it of back in the hallway, weary of the endless chatter. He wonders when, or if he should return to the command center tonight. He's sure no one will want to speak with him at present. He'll only put them all on edge. He's likely assured himself a renewed reputation of coarse dissidence among his friends and strangers alike, but then he has always been somewhat of an outcast, so it's probably just as well.
He can't really bring himself to care, because he knows with painful certainty that they will not find Tails. That fox is more capable than the lot of them combined. Tails will not be reached, traced, or deterred if he does not wish to be.
And yet Knuckles is afraid for that little fox. He should have come sooner. He knew that Tails would suffer Sonic's loss the hardest. Would he now lose his second brother too?
Knuckles is yanked from this line of thought when something nearly topples over him. He manages to reach out, and slow its decent.
Something it turns out, is actually someone.
"Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry!" She exclaims as they both right themselves. "Oh, it's you!"
He looks up at her momentarily confused, and realizes she is the bunny server he spoke to that morning.
"Oh, um, hi again. I'm sorry about that. Are you alright? I shouldn't have been blocking the path. Let me get out of your way."
"No no, honestly I'm fine. I was reading the numbers on those crates up there, not watching my step at all. It's fine really. You can stay."
"Thank you, but I should probably be going anyway," he replies, and begins to turn away.
"Wait!" She bursts out. When he tuns back, she looks a little embarrassed, but continues, "Well, it's just… I didn't see you at the lunch or the dinner service today."
"Oh, yes, I was, uh… working."
"Man, the shift hours they keep you guys on is rough! You must be starving! Why don't you come on into the back with me, and I'll make you sandwich. It's the least I can do after trampling you."
"Oh, that's very kind of you, but I just can wait."
"Wait? Wait for what? For breakfast?"
"Yeah. I'll be fine. No worries."
"That's quite a long time to wait. Really, it's no trouble."
"Uh, no, I appreciate the gesture, honestly, but I really wouldn't feel right taking anything out of turn. There are so many people here to feed. I can manage a few hours without food. Thank you again, but I'll just go."
She raises an eyebrow at him, then smiles, and kind of chuckles. "Look, you're new here right?"
"Yes…You could say that, I guess."
"Okay, well that's very… noble, of you, thinking of more than your self, and all that, but food is actually one of the least pressing concerns we have around here. This old G.U.N. base has been a secret staging ground for years. It was already stocked full with food rations when they started moving people in. We were able to ship in food stores out of Park Avenue and Sunset Heights before they were taken over as well. We have enough to feed everyone comfortably for about two years, five with rationing. And that's not even accounting for the fruit we've been able to collect from the surrounding forest. So, if I'm not mistaken, all you ate today was a banana right? And do forgive me for pointing out that you choose to get cozy here—surrounded by a maze of food crates. So, let me ask you again. Would you like a sandwich?"
Knuckles isn't sure what compels him to say, "Okay." He'd been ready to reply, no thank you, again, yet instead he is following her towards the back wall, feeling like he's entered some other reality.
"Good choice," she says, oblivious to his disconcertion. "My name is Molly by the way." They pass through a set of double doors, into a fairly large, and well stocked kitchen. Some of it appears a bit makeshift, but certainly well equipped taking into account the circumstance. Molly points out some bar stools behind a counter. "Have a seat," and makes her way over to a large refrigerator. She disappears halfway into it, but her voice carries back. "So what do they call you?"
"My name is Knuckles."
"Just Knuckles, huh?" She returns with a stack of containers. "Okay, then Knuckles, what would ya like on your sandwich?"
"Anything meatless is fine."
"Hmm… interesting choice. You're a peculiar guy, you know that Knuckles?"
He doesn't quite suppress the scoff that follows, but lightly replies, "Yeah, I've heard that once or twice."
Molly gets to work assembling a sandwich, and keeps chatting along the way.
"Did you get in with that group from Sunset Heights last week? I heard that was a pretty rough situation."
"No, I just arrived yesterday actually."
"Yesterday? And they've already put you to work!? Wow, we must be getting stretched pretty thin."
"Uh, well, don't let me give you the wrong impression. I more or less volunteered, but yes, it's not good. We… have a long road ahead."
"Well, I'm glad we have willing people like you to help us through." She finishes assembling a sandwich, then hands him the plate. "So where are you from then?"
"Me?" He struggles a bit with how to respond. She has been kind to him. He wants to be accommodating, but the question is harder now than ever to answer. "It is… a very far away place."
She seems curious at his vague answer. "Far away… but not far enough to the escape all this Eggman nonsense?"
"Yeah… something like that." He looks up at her wondering if he needs to say more.
"It's alright. You don't have to share." She grabs a glass from somewhere below the counter, and then fills it with water. "I'm being pretty nosey. I know everyone here has a story, and not all of them are good." She hands him the glass. "I need to go finish up that inventory count, and a few other things. Please, eat the sandwich, and stay as long as you like. It should be more or less empty around here until four a.m. Come find me if you need anything, 'kay? Otherwise I'll see ya round Knuckles." She heads back to the double doors where they entered.
"Molly…" He waits for her to look back. "Thank you."
She smiles, nods, and then disappears through the doors.
Knuckles does stay—first just to eat; he focuses only on the taste, savoring each bite, and the ease of sitting there alone. When he finally lets his thoughts wander, he tries to keep them light—a focus on the positive. His island is safe; it was a treacherous task with a steep price, but worth it. Most of his friends are safe, and that can not be taken for granted. He still wants to pummel the lot of them, but he is grateful for them nonetheless.
And of the others? Sonic is a loss he can't fill, and a hope he is loosing sight of. Tails though… He could go. Should go anyway, even if the chance of finding Tails is slim. He's hardly been here with the resistance long enough to make an impact. They would do just as well without him. He could leave now, and search. It's what Sonic would do.
But where? The fox is days ahead of him. Perhaps it would be better to wait till morning, to see what leads the others have found, though he'll likely have to deal with some protest about leaving. 'Yes, wait till morning,' he thinks. He really shouldn't just disappear into the night; he imagines Amy might never forgive him.
He sighs deeply, and leans a little further over the counter until his forehead is resting on his crossed forearms. Knuckles keeps imagining Sonic's disappointment with him for not tending to Tails sooner.
He was trying to keep everyone safe. Eggman with the Master Emerald at a time like this would be disastrous. Maybe he'd been wrong though… The madman already had the world in his pocket…
It is much later when Knuckles wakes up still alone at the counter. He sits up groggily, and notices his plate and glass have been cleared, but in their place is a cloth bundle with a note. He pulls it closer to inspect. It reads:
It was nice to meet you Knuckles. Please don't skip meals. You can always stop by the kitchen for a bite to eat after hours. Tell your work buddies too!
- Molly
He unwraps the bundle and finds it holds a small bunch of bananas. He is unable to hold back a soft smile. He hopes he has a chance to thank Molly again before heading out the next day.
Knuckles takes the bundle, and picks up the comm he'd discarded earlier, wondering wether he should turn it on again. He decides against it; his room should be good enough for tonight. If anyone really needs him, they are likely to search there first. He makes his way back to the residential hall and heads to bed.
The next morning he wakes relatively late; it is almost seven. Knuckles is laying in bed, replaying the last twenty four hours or so, and debating how to proceed this morning. He's been lounging maybe ten minutes when a chime tone fills the room. He looks around for its source, before he realizes that it must be a door bell. He crosses the room, and taps the door release. Silver is standing on the other side.
"Hey Knuckles. Do you have a few minutes? I wanted to talk to you about a few things. I have an update about Tails."
"Yeah, of course. Here, come inside," Knuckles offers waving Silver through the door. Knuckles goes back to the bed and settles on the edge of the frame, arms crossed, while Silver stands at the room's center.
"Let me get right to it," Silver begins. "We confirmed on C.C. footage that Tails boarded a transport flight Wednesday evening bound for Sunset Heights. It seems he took only his most important possessions, some tools, his laptop and such. We found a few other items stashed in the Tornado. The ship which only had a limited crew, was in route to pick up some troops. We've already questioned the air crew and maintenance personnel. Nobody recalled seeing him before, on, or during the flight. We've sent out a memo to our forces in the area inquiring about sightings, and requesting they keep a look out for Tails."
"I see. So we have no solid baring on his movement since then?"
"Unfortunately no."
"Okay. That's a starting point at least. Thank you Silver." Knuckles is already picturing the greater surrounding area of Sunset Heights, and imagining Tails's most likely direction or destination.
"Of course. I wish I had more news." He pauses a moment, then says, "Knuckles… I wanted to apologize for yesterday."
Knuckles looks up. He'd thought Silver was done, but returns his full attention the hedgehog.
"I feel we didn't make the best impression for your arrival here. I don't want give excuses, but for the sake of the others I'd like to say… you caught us at the end of a pretty rough week. Failed missions, high tensions, lack of sleep, and such. You showing up has been the best news in quite some time. It's not going well out there for our forces, as I'm sure you are aware. Specifically though, I just want to say I'm sorry for dismissing your concern about Tails at first. I don't want you to think I'm not concerned or bothered that we let this happen... I'm sorry if I... let you down."
Knuckles is a bit surprised by this. Especially the sincerity with which Silver makes the last plea.
"Let me go ahead and stop you there Silver. I appreciate everything you are saying, but it's unnecessary. If anything, I owe you all an apology as well. My anger at the situation was… excessive." He reaches out offering a hand. "Let's forget blame and apologies. How about we both just try to do better?"
Relief washes over Silvers features, and he replies, "Yeah. Okay. That sounds good." They give one solid shake, and Silver follows with, "thanks."
Knuckles wonders if he should go ahead and mention right then that he is planning to leave to track down Tails. Leaving with out a world is no longer an option, he's decided, and it would certainly be helpful if he could request some supplies for the journey. He'd arrived to the base on spartan means after all. He is about to ask when Silver speaks up again.
"I've gotta admit I'm relived you feel that way. Should make this next conversation a little easier."
"Oh? There was something else you wanted to talk to me about?"
"Yes, Knuckles. There has been quite a lot of discussion overnight. Honestly I tried to track you down last night, but, well… it doesn't matter. We've come to a unified conclusion."
Unsure about the intent of this veiled lead up, Knuckles nods for Silver to continue.
"Knuckles, we'd like you to assume command of the resistance forces."
[ TBC ]