Episode Five: The Final Battle Pt. 2 Day 1:
Trust, Truth, Treason, Tactics, and Training
A/N I do not own the song 'I'll make a Man out of You!'
Bartleby is sitting down with a cup of steaming hot fancy herbal tea and morning biscuits, fruit, cheeses and other breakfast items. "Oh so yummy," he says taking a bite into the biscuit. Suddenly, a bright brown flash of light with a rush of air appears on the other side of the table, making Bartleby go flying backwards in his chair and come crashing to the ground. Midna, Sonia, Cyrus, and Dingo appear. The former hired hand's bulky body knocks over the table and all the items go flying onto his body. The flesh melting hot tea pours all over him as well, but he remains silent and motionless.
"Hey, are you ok?" Cyrus questions. He looks at Dingo's motionless body and thinks; ~ Nico must have done more than just physical damage to Dingo. The psychological effect must have been worse than we could even imagine. Poor guy, I have no idea what type of damage has been done to him.~ "Wow, he didn't even respond to the pain."
"Well, Dingo did suffer through having both of his hands ripped off. Add to that, his legs and lower ribs being shattered," Sonia comments.
Bartleby's face is cover with butter and jelly, and his clothes are soaked in cold fruit juice. He swiftly stands up and shouts, "What is the meaning of this intrusion?! You ruined my breakfast, you barbarians!"
"Bartleby!"
He is surprised to hear his future fiancé's voice. He wipes away the excess butter and jelly; then he looks at Sonia's new outfit. He is impressed at how it enhances her growing womanly figure and growing chest. For a moment, her beauty enchants Bartleby, and he comments with excitement, "Sonia? Sonia! You look absolutely ravishing; that new outfit is beautiful!"
Sonia twirls around to give Bartleby a 360 look at her new outfit, "Why thank you Bartleby. Oh let me introduce…"
"Don't tell me this is your lovely sister Midna Hedgehog. But where are your brothers?"
~Wait how does he know about me?~ Midna questions giving Bartleby a suspicious look.
"Oh Sonic and Manic are…"
"No, darling not those ruffians. Your other brothers, Shadow and Silver; they sound like upstanding royal nobles."
"Oh see…" Sonia starts.
~What the hell! He knows about Shadow and Silver. This can't be right something majorly is wrong here. Damn it Sonic and Manic might be right. We need to get the fuck out of here fast! ~ Midna continues to yell in her head.
"They are with them in…"
"Sorry to interrupt, but Sonia we are only here to deliver a message we don't have time to play twenty questions," Midna orders with her arms folded looking at Bartleby with in untrusting glaze.
"Oh sorry sis, Bartleby it's time to choose; mother is returning in three days and we plan on ending Robotnik, so will the aristocrats help us?" Sonia asks.
"I don't know Sonia. I'll gather the court and find out, but why don't you stay…"
"Sorry we don't have time! Sonia, it's time to go," Midna pushes.
"Wait! Sonia, I beg of you stop this foolish fight. If you come to live with me, I am sure Dr. Robotnik will allow you to live the life as a respected noble. Instead of wasting your energy on the lower peasants, who do not deserve your blood or sweat, you can…"
Sonia places a warm kind hand on Bartleby's cheek and smiles, "Bartleby, these are our people; they has suffered enough under Robotnik's rule. I have to do my duty to help free them as one of their princesses."
"Oh very well Sonia, so where will you be going now?" He inquires.
"Well…" Midna cuts her off.
"We can't tell you that it's top-secret," Midna pulls Sonia back to Cyrus and Dingo. "We will talk again. Until then, witness the ultimate power of Chaos Control." The four of them disappear in the same flashy fashion they appeared.
Bartleby walks to a wall-mounted computer then activates the system, "Get me Dr. Robotnik right this instant."
"Welcome to the hidden ancient city of Mobopicho, but after Sonic, Manic, and I found it; we transformed it into our secondary safe zone and called it Sanctuary 2," Sonia explains. Cyrus looks over the magnificent cave city. The city has towers and small buildings that are similar to stalactite and stalagmites embedded in the walls and roof of the cavern. Some stalactites have similar shapes to windows alive with lights and signs of life. The people walk around with high spirits and smiles, but under the surface, every moment they look around at the constant reminder of what has been lost to the tyranny of Dr. Robotnik.
"This is amazing," Cyrus comments.
"Yeah, but Midna how did you know about this place?" Sonia questions.
"That's simple sis, she told me when I informed her that Sanctuary was about to be attacked," Midna says pointing to a woman with long flowing snow-white hair with pink and purple highlights. She wears a blue sport armor bra and black plated pants with her snow-white tail coming out touching the floor.
"Kenna!" Sonia calls out.
"Sonia," she turns to her.
"Kenna, thank goodness you're safe," she runs up to hug her, "But what about…"
"Us!" Kana and Kell call out in unison as they walk up to greet everyone. The six-foot tall toned anthro red dragon walks out with shoulder-length black hair and burning green eyes. Kana sports a green shirt, brown pants, black boots, and a red amulet around his neck. Next to the red dragon, stands his twin brother Kell. The dire bald eagle has the same body built as his brother. Kell has a military crew cut length black hair with cool green eyes. He sports a desert camouflage shirt, black pants, and black boots. He wears a green amulet around his neck. Kana says with a joyful tone, "It's good to see you again Midna! Damn girl! You have grown; you're just as beautiful as Queen Aleena herself."
"I agree Midna, you have grown very beautiful," Kell says with a heated voice.
Midna gives a shy smile while slightly blushing at Kell's words. She replies in a shy tone, "Thank you Kell."
"Wait, you guys know each other?" Sonia questions looking at the three siblings.
Kenna nods and answers, "Thanks to Midna and Silver, we were able to evacuate Sanctuary."
Kana chimes in, "They appeared out of nowhere, and told us that we were in grave danger."
Kell finishes with, "We told them to get all the civilians to safety first."
"What?! You have got to be kidding!" Sonia exclaims. "Why would you do that? It would have been like signing your death warrant!"
Kenna rebuts with, "It is part of our duty. As members of the Royal Guard, we are task with protecting the royal family and the general public."
"Royal Guard? What are you talking about? Oracle said the last member of the Royal Guard was Capt. Argus, and, now that I think about it, Kana what do you mean Midna has grown? How long have you known Midna?" Sonia interrogates.
"Sonia, it's a long story; one that is best saved for another day," Midna states with a smirk.
"SONIA!" Cyrus calls out everyone turns around to look at the panicking lion. "It's Dingo! He's going into shock; we need to get into the medical wing NOW!"
"Right, I am on my way!" she replies, but glances back at Midna.
"You risk your life to save him, so you can't leave the job half done. Our family has a saying 'If someone needs help, we help them.'" Midna smirks. Sonia returns the smile and dashes off to help Cyrus.
"Princess your smirk means trouble for someone," Kell inquires.
"Get your gear, we have to go meet with a possible witness," Midna orders.
Bartleby stands in front of his wall size computer waiting for his call to be connected. Robotnik appears on the screen sitting in his command chair. He questions, "What do you have to report, Bartleby?"
"Plenty," Bartleby smirks.
"This had better be good. I'm in a foul mood and I will make people pay for it. Now, tell me everything!" Robotnik orders.
"First off, I can tell you the rumor about the royal family is true. Queen Aleena and King Sora did have three children before Sonia and her brothers. Plus…" Bartleby pauses and then he sees Sleet walking into Robotnik's command center.
"Dr. Robotnik, I have to tell you…" Sleet starts.
However Robotnik cuts him off by ordering, "SWAT BOTS arrest this failure, and take him to the robotizer. I'll be there soon."
"No wait! Dr. Robotnik let me explain please!" Sleet cries out as the bots grab him and drags him away. "Wait! Stop! You can't do this to me!" The door shuts behind him.
"Continue Bartleby," Robotnik orders.
"Yes sir. In my father's journal; he cites that Queen Aleena gave birth to three other hedgehogs, and I got first hand proof when Sonia appeared with her older sister, Midna."
"Where were the other hedgehogs?" Robotnik inquires.
"I don't know. They are most likely with Sonic and Manic."
"Why didn't you find out!" Robotnik yells.
"How do you expect me to do that without tipping my hand to them," Robotnik growls in frustration knowing that Bartleby is right. "Now, do I have information that will intrigue you? You will have to agree to my terms."
"And why should I agree to anything," Robotnik retorts.
"If you value your life and control of this planet, then you need my information. Will you agree to my terms?" Bartleby fires back. Robotnik sits and strokes his chin thinking about Bartleby's words. He sees the hesitation within Robotnik's eyes and then states, "If not, I can take my information to another source. I'm sure they will…"
"State your terms, Bartleby."
"I will deliver the hedgehogs and Queen Aleena along with a heavy number of freedom fighters. In turn, you will relinquish control of the planet to me; Sonia will be left unharmed, and given to me as my new Queen. Then I will be crowned King a Mobius," Bartleby explains out.
"And what do I get out of this deal?" Robotnik inquires.
"Simple I'll give you the full backing of the Moboain Empire. The people will recognize me as the one that ended the pointless fight between you and the freedom fighters. Then I will allow Mobius to aid you in your Galactic campaign."
"Very well, but I have a few conditions of my own. First, you will give me full control of your military forces at any time I deem necessary. Second, I expected annual amount of $3 trillion. Finally, I want access to the Royal family archives." Robotnik negotiates.
"Very well I agree to your terms as well," Bartleby retorts.
"Excellent. Tell me what you know."
"Three days from now Queen Aleena will reappear, so Sonia has asked me to rally the other aristocrats to aid them in their attack against Robotropolis. I will contact Sonia in tell her that I have got the nobles support to aid them in the attack; when they are in place you can catch them off guard. While Sonia and I safely flee to our new royal palace, there I will tell her what happened and console her. In turn you will have all the freedom fighters, the hedgehogs, and the Queen herself will be overwhelmed and have no choice but to surrender or face oblivion."
"You know Bartleby you are underhanded, cruel, manipulative, and backstabbing. I knew there was something I like. You get everyone into place and I'll handle the rest. Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!" Robotnik laughs.
"Why thank you, this will be a great day for the Scar-Lyon family. Mommy and daddy will be so happy when they return to know our family now rules the Moboian Empire," Bartleby smirks.
Robotnik points at the screen and threatens, "Just make sure you don't fail, or you know what will happen."
Bartleby nods in agreement and the screen goes black. "Once this is done, I will have no more need for that fool Bartleby, and I will rule this planet without any trouble," Robotnik chuckles as he makes his way to the robotizer.
Sleet stands in the center of the machine with his feet clamped to the floor. He hears the hum from the robotizer as a beam of light shines down on him. Sleet glances up and sees mechanical pincers, arms, and gears twist and turn with a sickening mechanical grind. ~Damn it, if I knew that this would happen I would have taken my chances with that monster, ~ he thinks.
The door opens and Robotnik walks through looking at his soon-to-be new robot slave. He walks up to the control panel and checks the status of the machine. Then he turns back to face Sleet, "Tell me where's that idiot Dingo?"
"Dead," Sleet responds without emotion.
A shock look comes over Robotnik's face, but he's able to maintain a posture of calm and control, "How?"
"Sonic killed him. No! He destroyed him," Sleet smirks at Robotnik knowing that his impending doom is close at hand.
"How is that even possible? The hedgehog isn't a murderer," Robotnik says stroking his mustache.
Sleet lowers his head and tugs at the chains on his arms, "That is true, but Sonic transformed into some kind of monster… no a beast. Once that happened, Dingo didn't have a chance; Sonic systematically with great pleasure destroyed Dingo."
Robotnik could not believe what he is hearing. He continues to stroke his mustache listening to Sleet describe all that happened on the ship went Sonic transformed. "Interesting and you say Sonic was the one responsible?"
"Yes Dr. Robotnik and I almost got killed trying to get away. He fired some super-powerful energy laser and destroyed all the ships except the one I got away on."
Robotnik starts to pace back and forth rattling his mind for an explanation that might give some reliable insight about the events that occurred at Sanctuary. After another two minutes of thinking, Robotnik finally looks back at Sleet and says in a dark intimidating tone, "Well Sleet, you may be useful to me after all." Sleet falls to his knees and rattling the chains while groveling. "Shut up Sleet. I want you to contact every bounty Hunter on Mobius. Tell them to capture that blue rodent, UNDERSTAND!"
"Yes your most merciful one," Sleet grovels.
"Release him," Robotnik orders. Then he walks over to Sleet grabs him by the collar and stares into his eyes, "Don't you dare fail me, or I will find a worse punishment than the robotizer."
Two hours later, Sleet walks back into the command center and sees Robotnik staring at the screen with an 'X' on the monitor. He hears Robotnik talking, and he notices that Robotnik has not realize that he is in the room. He quickly hides in order to hear the conversation between Robotnik and the other person on the monitor. "Master everything is going according to plan. In fact, our timetables been accelerated. The Queen will make her final reappearance in three days," Robotnik reports.
"Excellent 47118. Is there anything more to report?" The mechanical voice asks.
"Yes master, it seems that Queen Aleena and King Sora have three other brats."
"WHAT! HOW CAN THIS BE!" the mechanical voice roars.
"They will be no problem master, they are here on the planet and they will fall into the same trap as Queen Aleena," Robotnik ensures.
"They better 47118 or you will face the consequences for failure," the mechanical voice threatens.
"Yes Master," then Robotnik slightly turns his head toward Sleet's direction. "Sleet, I hope, for your health, you have completed your task."
Sleet tries to contain his shock hearing Robotnik voice address him. "Yes of course Master Robotnik. They are heading out in search of Sonic as we speak. Once they have found him, they will bring Sonic to you alive as ordered," Sleet reports.
"Good you completed your final mission. Now, GUARDS!" Robotnik calls out. Less than a second, three SWAT bots walk-up in response, "Take the prisoner to the robotizer and robotize him this very second."
"HEY WAIT! NO!" Sleet cries out.
"As you command sir," the bot responses.
"No get away from me!" Sleet cries out running towards the exit, but another squad of bots stands blocking his path. He draws his gun and open fires hitting two of the SWAT bots destroying them, yet before he could climb over them the bots grab Sleet with in its iron grip. "Let me go metal heads! Robotnik you said you would spare my life!"
"I did and I will. I will use your life for spare parts and for other things that I need parts for my other robots. Take him away!"
The bots drag Sleet down the hall, and he shouts, "ROBOTNIK YOU DOUBLE CROSSING BASTARD! I'LL BE SURE TO SAVE A SEAT FOR YOU AND YOUR FUCKING MASTER NEXT TO ME IN HELL WHEN THE HEDGEHOGS KILLED YOUR BIG ROUND…AHHHHH!" His words are silence as the robotizer completes the transformation. Another minute passes with Sleet crying in agony then the machine stops and the shield comes down revealing the new robotize Sleet. His eyes light up with a yellow tint and he says, "How may I serve you Master Robotnik?"
"Go clean out the oil pits," he orders.
"As you wish master Robotnik," Robo-Sleet responds and leaves.
Robotnik turns back to the screen and says, "With that done, I beg your leave master. I must prepare for the hedgehog's arrival." Robotnik bows.
"Don't fail me!" the mechanical voice exclaims then the screen goes black.
Bartleby shuts down his wall monitor, "You fool Robotnik once I have Sonia by my side and you have dealt with her meddling brothers and mother; you will be next. I will get revenge for my father and mother; then I will take what is rightfully mine the imperial throne."
"Damn and here I thought that you Scar-Lyons couldn't get any worse. Boy was I wrong," A hooded woman voices sitting at the end of the empty dining room table with her feet propped up.
"And why should I care, I will soon be ruler of this planet then the rest of the Empire."
"Damn, I owe Sonic and Manic on this on; they were around the ball when comes to you. You are nothing but a parasite and backstabbing fucker."
Bartleby strolls over to the opposite end of the table and eloquently sits down while discreetly pressing a button under the table, "Well what do I owe the pleasure of this intrusion of my property. Are we not all allies against Robotnik?"
"Oh save it! Do I really have to waste my breath? I have a few questions, and I want answers! Oh and you should know, your life depends on it! First, what do you plan to do with Sonia?"
"Well your sister will be the catalyst that will allow my family to become the next royal rulers," Bartleby smirks.
"And what do you and Robotnik have in store for Queen Aleena, Sonic, Shadow, Silver, and Manic?"
"Simple. Death!" He responds sitting back in his chair interlacing his fingers.
"Bastard," she says softly; then she asks, "Why are you doing this? What's the reason for grabbing up power in this manner?"
Bartleby leans forward and pours a glass of red wine then slowly drinks from the glass, "It's quite simple. It's my family's destiny and my birthright." He presses the button again, and stands up looking outside the window. "For generations, the Scar-Lyon family has served the royal Hedgehog family, and we stood proud as the leader of the aristocrats and fought gallantly in the civil war. After all our hard work, it was past time we take our proper place as part of the royal lineage. Grandfather selected my father to become the one to make us a part of royalty. Your mother was to be the one that would elevate us. Grandfather would have your mother arranged to marry father, but we were betray. Her parents said, 'That she was free to choose anyone of her liking.'" Bartleby takes another drink from his wineglass and turns back to face the hooded woman. "Father had everything grace, class, excellent pedigree, and me ready to take the throne as the first crown prince."
"Wait, Bartleby you were alive at that time?" She calmly asks.
"Of course not you fool, I was born five years before you. Grandfather had it all planned out; I would be born first, and I would be legal heir to the throne. Since, I would be the eldest child," Bartleby chuckles before taking another sip of wine.
"So, your family planned to usurp the throne from the beginning," she comments.
"Of course, the Hedgehog dynasty is old and weak, and the idea that we must promote peace and equality is a joke. The lower classes should be taught to know their role in life is to serve those of high birth and power," Bartleby states turning around to look outside once more.
"I see, so what went wrong?"
Bartleby yells while twisting around to face her again, "THAT LOWLIFE, GUTTER BORN, UNCIVILIZED FATHER OF YOURS!" He exhales then takes another sip of wine regaining his composer; then he turns back to look through his window. "The plan was so simple, at the debutante ball Princess Aleena was presented to the public for the first time as a young maiden and old enough to be wedded. During the ball, father was meant to sweep Princess Aleena off her feet with his grace and charm, but that no good worthless hedgehog Sora Speed, from the Earth colony, had to attend. It would have been the perfect moment, father walked up to Aleena and gracefully asked her to dance, but she tossed father's advance away to go dance with Sora. For the next five years, everything happen without stall, Sora and Aleena dated, fell in love, married, mated, and then you were born. I was five at the time of your birth, and father became head of the family. We were more determined than ever to make our dreams become reality. After it was announced, Queen Aleena and King Sora had a daughter among her first set of bastardized triplets. That was our ticket to power; plus another option became available for us," he smiles taking another sip of wine.
Within hearing distance in a dimly lit side hallway, two hooded figures walk up to another hooded figure who is observing the conversation. The taller figure says, "How is our princess holding up?"
Still listening to the conversation she responds in a soft tone, "Not bad so far, but a couple of times her power spikes because of the crazy shit Bartleby has confessed to. On top of that, I think he's only getting started."
"That doesn't surprise me. She has great self-control at times, but Bartleby is nothing but scum," the other hooded figure giggles.
"Okay. Okay, so what are we waiting on? We can just burst in right now, and…" The equally tall figure comments cracking his knuckles, but the female figure cuts him off.
"No, we must wait for her signal. Besides I'm curious to see how deep the Scar-Lyon's involvement is in this conspiracy," she says turning back to listen to the conversation.
"Bartleby, what other option are you talking about?" the hooded woman asks.
Bartleby takes another sip from his wine glass, "Midna tell me, did you ever wonder where Robotnik came from and how he gained a foot hold on Mobius?"
"Wait! You didn't!" she sits up in her chair.
Bartleby laughs loudly, "No you fool! Don't be so gullible, I was only a child at the moment, but father, he had great plans in store for using Robotnik's forces and power."
"BARTLEBY! YOUR FAMILY SOLD OUT OUR PEOPLE!" She yells at him.
"Not before your mother betrayed the aristocracy," Bartleby turns and sets his wine glass on the table; then he stares at her. "You see Robotnik had come to our planet to open up negotiations for an alliance with us. He wanted our empire to aid him in a galactic expansion campaign. This would mean nearly unlimited money, resources, and boundless power for the nobles. It would have been a glorious alliance, but Sora told Aleena that it would come at the cost of billions of lives. Its not like it really mattered because it will be only low and idiot classes. We nobles would be safe and sound from the day to day battles, because that's what they are bred for. They live to fight for us, so we do not have to soil our hands. However, that bleeding heart king did not budge on his stance; the queen agreed with him and turned down Dr. Robotnik's offer. She ordered him to leave the planet immediately, but father had other plans. Our path to ultimate power was not leaving yet; father along with some other nobles asked Robotnik to come to one of our villas in the country. In fact, it was in this very room that he opened negotiations. We told him that we would finance his operations in Mobius, if he would get rid of your parents. In turn, Robotnik and father would put me on the throne, he agreed to our terms, so the aristocracy gave him the building and funds needed to construct his war machines. Once done, father and Robotnik had to wait for the right moment to strike. It was a year before Aleena had her second set of triplets when an emergency call came from Earth, so King Sora rushed off to aid his home world. At the same time of his departure, Queen Aleena gave birth. With the queen's powers weaken, the King gone, our time had come, and we attacked. Now it is time to end this pointless struggle, I will take my rightful place as King of Mobius with Sonia as my queen. Who knows, I might take you as my concubine. After all, I know eventually I will get tired of Sonia, and I will need someone else to warm my bed. Well, I hope you have enjoyed this little walk down memory lane. Now, you will take your proper place under my feet, or you will not leave here alive."
"Now, what gives you that idea?" The hooded woman questions as she stands to her feet looking directly at Bartleby.
"By now my private robot militia has this entire area locked down," Bartleby smiles at her while moving forward closer the hooded woman.
Not less than five feet from her, she holds out her hand stopping Bartleby in his tracks. "Really, I beg to differ. Isn't that right guys!" she exclaims as two hooded figures walk into the room.
"You got that right sis," the taller figure says removing is hood to reveal his face.
"KANA!" Bartleby says with a shock in his voice and steps back three feet.
"I'm with you bro," the other figure says as he pulls back his hood and showing his face.
"KELL!" Bartleby screams in fright backpedaling close to the wall computer. "What are you talking about? Explain now! Where are my robots?!" Bartleby whines.
"Check it out, they all got sick because their allergies flared up," Kell laughs walking to the table and picks up an apple.
"What?! Don't be foolish robots don't have allergies. You are lying!" Bartleby protests with his back against the wall while he covertly activates the computer.
Kana walks to the table; he grabs a piece of cheese and pops into his mouth then chews it quickly while saying, "Oh yes they do, see they are allergic to fire. It causes their temperature to spike, and they just melt away." He grabs another piece of cheese and eats it turning his head towards Kell.
Kell finishes his apple then swallows before saying, "The same can be said about wind. Once it starts blowing, they go all to pieces." He laughs grabbing a pear this time and quickly devours it.
"You monsters you'll pay for this!" Bartleby shouts. He quickly turns around to the wall mounted computer. Just before his right hand reaches the panel, the other hooded female dashes towards him as fast as lightning; her light blue star sword detaches Bartleby's whole right forearm and slashes the left side of his face.
"AAAHHHHHHH!" Bartleby cries out holding the seared end of his right arm. The unimaginable pain and adrenaline from the shock speeds through his body. His legs turn to wet limp limbs tossing him to the ground with a painful thump.
"That was for fucking with my family!" The hooded woman says.
Bartleby regains some of his composure and musters the will to say, "Look at what you have done to me. You foul beast! Damn you Kenna!"
Midna removes her hood revealing her face to the shock and mortally wounded Bartleby with the deathly glare and fire in her eyes. "That was for trying to use my sister and I as your playthings. Come to think about it I should have aimed lower," she growls. She lets Bartleby's words play again her head and every second she hears the lines and taunts Bartleby spews from his mouth; her anger grows and grows. Finally, it comes to the point that she can no longer withstand his vile words and actions she raises her star sword and says, "You don't deserve to live; I'm going to end you here and now. I'll make sure to send Robotnik to hell right behind with you." As she begins to swing down Kenna grabs her arm and prevents the star sword from splitting Bartleby's head and half. Midna gives Kenna a deathly stare and says with a great amount of malice and hatred in her voice, "What the fuck are you trying to do? WHY THE HELL YOU ARE STOPPING ME, KENNA!?"
"Your highness, you must not do this. You are right he does deserve to pay for his crimes with his life, but don't stain yourself with vengeance. His family and the supporting aristocrats have committed grave crimes against the people of Mobius, but you must not fall to his level nor allow yourself to be drawn into this darkness that they have created," Kenna lectures.
Midna frees herself from Kenna's grip; then Kenna moves in between her and Bartleby. Midna takes a deep breath closes her eyes and allows the coolness of logic and understanding to wash over her. After another minute of her makeshift meditation, Midna retracts her star sword back into its medallion form. She looks back at Kenna with a relaxed expression and focused mind then says, "What do you suggest we do?"
Kana walks over with more pieces of cheese in his hand. He pops another piece into his mouth then melts the other pieces in his hand with a fire burst. "Why not break his legs and leave him here until we retake the planet," he suggests while laughing.
Kell walks up behind them eating another piece of fruit. He swallows the morsel then says, "That is just as bad as killing him charcoal breath. Leave the thinking to us while you eat your cheese."
"Don't push it wind bag," Kana threatens. His eyes turns from green to fire red-orange, "keep being a smartass and I'll show you what I did to Bartleby's robots."
"Yeah, yeah! So you say! So you say!" Kell waves his hand in disbelief in front of his face. Kana gets closer to Kell and swings at his brother. Kell deflects the shots and throw some punches of his own, but Kana is able to deflect shots as well. The brothers continue to punch, kick, and throw silverware at each other. Occasionally, their attacks connect with the other's face, abdomen, and other parts of the body.
Kenna jumps in between the battling brothers and blocks two incoming attacks. She quickly punches her brothers in the chest knocking them to the ground. Kenna gives them a mean look as they rub the soreness inflicted on them "Will you two knock your childish shit off! Damn, you two are ranking members of the Royal Guards, and yet you acting just as childish as Silver and Shadow. No offense Midna!" She states.
"None taken you called it right," Midna smirks. Before looking back at Bartleby, she thinks about the ultimate judgment that she will cast upon him.
"Still your Majesty, you must make a decision, but killing him is not the right answer. This decision is one that will impact the entire royal family for generations to come. You can be merciful and let him live until he can be judged by a jury of his peers and Queen Aleena, or you could take a darker route and can cast him into an oblivion from which he can never return." Kenna advises.
Bartleby looks distressingly at both Midna and Kenna wondering what fate will befall him. Bartleby nurses his arm tightly flexing his phantom hand in front of him; then he looks at the severed limb that was once connected to his body. Midna closes her eyes and lets her thoughts raced through her mind as she contemplates on her next move. Thoughts race pass her at lightning speed one solution after another. The brown hedgehog ponders what would be the best and most satisfying punishment for Bartleby. Suddenly, her eyes spring open as a solution comes to mine, "FIRE!"
Kenna, Kana, Kell, and Bartleby look at Midna with a puzzle expression. Kell breaks the silence and asks with a questionable tone, "Midna what you talking about? How is fire going to solve this situation?"
Midna looks outside for a second; then she looks all around Bartleby's mansion with a poignant and fierce look in her eyes, "It's quite simple, fire is purity. Anything that is engulf by fire becomes purified afterwards."
"But Midna fire also means destruction, you do realize whatever you put into fire is reduced to ashes. How does fire help this?" Kenna asks.
"Simple. This estate, mansion, and everything here utilized for dark and evil purposes along with vengeful acts. In order to pay for the Scar-Lyon's evil and destructive deeds, we must destroy this place in order for goodness to be free, so I have decided. My judgement is to burn this place to the ground."
Kell walks up and places his hand on Midna shoulder, "That's all well and good, but what is Bartleby's punishment? Do you want to cook him along with the rest of the mansion? Don't get me wrong, I have no problem seeing this piece of shit being roasted alive along with everything here."
"No, Bartleby will be handled in a different way," Midna turns to Bartleby grabbing his attention. He looks up at her with fear in his eyes wondering what will happen. "Bartleby Scar-Lyon, I will spare your life in exchange for," she pauses.
Bartleby works his way to his knees cradling to his severed right arm and holds it close to his chest. "Oh thank you. Thank you your majesty for your graceful kindness and loving mercy. I will do anything you ask of me anything at all. All you have to do is just ask for anything. Anything at all," he professes.
Midna squint her eyes and does what she cannot to smirk. "Runaway Bartleby. Runaway and never return," Midna orders.
"Where do I go? How do I eat? What about my every day needs? Everything out there is so… so barbaric," Bartleby whines.
Kell looks at Bartleby and says with a humorous tone, "Oh I'm sorry would you like some cheese with your whine, or maybe you should call the complaint department. Midna, this is no use; he's hopeless. He going to whine and complain about everything. We should just kill him here and now to put him out of his damn misery!"
Midna looks at Kell and shakes her head in disapproval before saying, "No. He will face exile and if he ever shows his face again, well Bartleby don't try me."
"But your majesty, I won't survive out there. The harsh nights and the desolate days it will be a living hell for me," Bartleby whines.
Midna looks back at Bartleby then says, "That's not my problem, so you better get going before I changed my mind. Unless, you want me to take off your head." Her ocean blue eyes give the death glare to Bartleby causing his whole body to shake with fear and panic. Suddenly, her face hidden by a deep black shadow and with her ocean blue eyes glowing with an ominous aura of pure darkness and evil. She adds with a voice full of pure rage and anger, "One other matter Bartleby, if I ever see you again, or you speak about my family especially my sister, I won't kill you. I will destroy you!"
The piercing deadly aura from Midna scares Bartleby so much that he starts frantically crawling away from Midna deadly presence. He hurries to his feet; then he fumbles with the front door. Once it is open, he scurries away from his estate into the vast unknown world tripping and falling occasionally thinking that Midna is on his tail preparing to deal the final deadly blow.
The three watch as Bartleby continues to scurry away laughing and giggling at his uncoordinated attempt to escape a death sentence, "You know, you kinda over did it with the death threat," Kenna expresses.
"It was no threat, Kenna that was a solemn promise. The next time I see that worthless traitor, I will kill him without any regrets, and if you ever try to stop me from taking my vengeance upon him, I will bring you down as well," Midna replies with a cold deadly tone.
"Damn Midna! I knew I was cold, but you've got icebergs running through your veins," Kana smirks.
"Maybe my blood will warm up after Robotnik is found guilty, and his body is opened up for all to see," she smiles.
Kell shakes his head and grabs more fruit. He starts to eat while putting his feet up on the table, "Okay now that is done, what do we do about the other problem should or should I say problems?"
Midna thinks about his questions then she replies in a cold harsh voice, "Will handle that later, but first Kell mine Bartleby's computer for data to find where all his assets are. Once that is done, Kana I want you to burn this place to the ground I want nothing left but trees and bare ground. Got it!"
"Yes, your highness!" They reply while saluting.
Kenna stops in her tracks for a second before carrying out the hedgehog princess' orders and askes, "Midna, what about the staff and the other innocents here?"
Midna takes a breath, lets her angry aura calm down, and says, "I'll handle that. You three carry out my orders."
"Ok," Kenna replies before heading off.
An hour later the four of them with the whole house staff stand on the outskirts of Bartleby's estate watching as the huge house is engulfed in a sea of flames. The sky is filled with dancing flames and columns of smoke as the house erupts into flames. Midna's eyes stare deeply into the flames erupting from the property, and her mind envisions the impending flames that will surround Robotnik's headquarters. "Now comes the hard part, telling Sonia and my brothers," Midna says softly then turns to the dire eagle, "Kell, have everyone get ready to go this instant. I have to break this news to my sister." Everyone gathers around and with a bright brown light disappear instantaneously.
"Well that was close," Sonia smiles seeing Dingo's vital readings stabilized, and him resting peacefully in bed. She walks out the surgery viewing room; then she sees Cyrus leaning against the wall with his foot propped up. She gives him a quick glance and begins to make her way pass him.
"You really care for him," Cyrus claims as he starts to walk beside her. They make their way down the hallway to the patient visitor lobby. "After all the shit and hell he has put you and your brothers through, why help him?" He questions the lite violet color hedgehog. Sonia stops in the middle of the hallway and looks at Cyrus with a concerned look in her eyes; she takes a deep breath then shakes her head before walking again. Cyrus stands there for a moment looking at Sonia walking away; he rushes to catch up while pressing, "Sonia, please at least tell me. Do you plan for him to die in that state or let him live?"
They reach the lobby and find Dingo's room number. After they get to his room, Sonia looks through the glass at Dingo's bloodstain and mutilated medical taped up body. She gives a small smirk in pleasure at seeing Dingo in his tormented form, but she knows in her heart that Dingo did not deserve this type of punishment. "You're right Cyrus, no matter how much evil your oppressors have done; they don't deserve to suffer. What Nico put him through is wrong and unjustified."
"Then, why don't you just end his long medically induced misery? You can order the doctors to take him off life support and grant him the blessing of …" Cyrus starts, but Sonia interrupts him.
"We have the technology to save him, so he can live a meaningful life. Dingo deserves that much of a chance regardless of his past crimes," Sonia defends.
"That's the Sonia I know and grew up with. She is always willing to give anyone who wants to love and live a chance to do so," Minda says walking in the viewing room. She wears her traditional polka dot outfit with bright green camouflage polka dots over a darker forest green jumpsuit. "My father was forced to makes by bots for Robotnik's spy service, but not only did she forgive him; she helped us escape. Now, we're here fighting the good fight against that round belly egghead."
"She's absolutely right even though Dingo did some horrible things. He put innocent lives in grave danger; mother would want me to show compassion and forgiveness," Sonia adds with a smile.
"Spoken like a true princess, mother will be so proud knowing that our baby sister is growing up to be a fine young royal leader," Midna smiles while walking into the room. She looks through the viewing glass at Dingo's head, legs, and torso are wrapped medical gauzes stained with blood from the open wounds. The right side of his face along his right eye are wrapped with bloodstain cover. Next to his bed, several medical machines record his life signs and on a silver pole are five different liquid IV bags plugged into his body. She thinks as she looks over his body, ~Great Mother and Father, Sonic… I mean Nico put him through hell and back; there is hardly anything left. Shit, I can't even tell if he actually still alive after all that. ~
A moment later, a man with a brown and white fox tail wearing a white lab coat with a black dress shirt and pants walks into Dingo's room. The doctor holds a tablet in his right hand and uses his left hand to check the monitors and other devices plugged into Dingo's body. A few moments pass as he records the findings from the sensors and monitoring machines onto his tablet. He rubs his eyes in what looks to be frustration and anguish for his patient. He leaves the room not saying or even looking directly ahead, but looking at the floor with a frustrated look. His concentration is broken when he hears, "Dr. Stein… Dr. Stein…" He looks up to see who is calling his name, but he doesn't see anyone within his peripherals or straight view. He continues down the hallway shrugging off the calls of his name.
Sonia stands in the middle of the hallway and calls out once again, "Dr. Frank Stein please wait." He breaks away from his concentration and sees Sonia paging him, so he turns about and starts walking to the viewing room. He enters the room seeing everyone there looking at Dingo confined to his bed. "Can you give us a diagnosis?" Sonia glances into his eyes and sees a highly frustrated expression in his eyes and body language.
Midna notices the same signals as Sonia, and she bravely ask, "Doctor is there a problem? If there is something that you need to tell us, please do inform us what it is. Holding it in seems to be causing you the only grief and irritation, so you can go ahead and illuminate us what you have learned about Dingo's condition."
"Is there a problem?! Is there a problem?! You see my fucking patient!" He yells pointing towards the view-screen. "I don't know what type of a joke this is, but anyone in the medical profession would say this patient doesn't even need to be breathing! What the hell, were you thinking?! Why, just not let him die?! There was no need to bring…" He continues to yell.
"DOCTOR! Please calm down. Remember, you are a medical professional, and you do not need to go flying off the handle like this. Pull it together, so that you can protect your patient's life," Midna orders.
Dr. Stein takes a deep breath calming his rage. His frustration settles down; Frank remembers the classes he took in professionalism and crisis management on how to handle this situation. "I'm sorry your majesty, seeing what's left of my patient infuriated me. I have never seen anyone so badly mutilated in my entire life." He puts his hand on the viewing glass and leans over looking at the mutilated body before him.
"What did you mean by 'what's left' Dr. Stein? What is the diagnosis for him? Is he going to survive? Can he… I don't know…," Cyrus questions.
"To put it simply, the patient suffers from major close to fatal injuries."
"Can you be a little more detailed Dr. Stein?" Sonia asks.
Stein turns back to look at the group with a semi-pessimistic look on his face and a partial irritation, "Fine, but you asked for it. I won't leave one detail out." He looks at his tablet with all the medical notes and starts to read word for word, "The patient is suffering from massive deep muscle laceration of the forearms and throughout the entire torso. He has sustained massive broken bones throughout the skeletal structure with severe fragmentation. Fragmented shards have inserted into major areas of the muscular structure. On the lower section of the body, both of the patient's leg bones are completely shattered with his muscle fibers torn to shreds, severe hematoma under the skin with other internal bleeding, and I don't know where to start with his nervous system. The same, can be said with, when it comes to his arms; the area where the hands were connected to the forearm along with the muscle fibers and other vital blood vessels suffered from severe force and tearing have. Add to that, testing shows signs of infection. The left arm has Gang Green and muscle deterioration. The patient is suffering from severe cranial pressure due to multiple concussion to the skull and bleeding on the brain. After reviewing x-rays, I have discovered that several major fissures that stretches more than 1 cm along the skull. As a result, the right eye is smashed. Lastly, Dingo's internal organs have suffered a great amount of shock from blunt force trauma, and he is displaying signs of cardio vascular scarring. This can be result from, bone fragments spreading through the internal organs and entering the blood stream. As a personal note, Dingo received damage from what could be only described as a destructive force of nature."
A deafening silence fills the room after Frank delivers the diagnosis and status for Dingo. Their faces only express grief and astonishment on how Dingo was able to survive such terrible injuries. Sonia is so shock; she walks up to the viewing window; then she places her hand against the glass still viewing the tattered remains. Sonia asks, "What treatment will you give him?"
Stein presses his back against the window then reaches into his lab coat pocket and pulls out a toothpick. He places it in his mouth and says, "Well Sonia, the best option right now is to just let him die, but I know that is not an option. I have discussed it with the other doctors, and we all agreed on the same conclusion. If you want to save him, then he will have to endure numerous amputations to his body ranging from his legs, his left arm, his ruptured right eye, parts of his skull, etc. The best replacement options will be prosthetics for all the amputated areas and shattered bones. If Dingo can get through all that and other parts of the surgeries, he will live."
Midna walks up to Sonia then places her hand on her shoulder giving some comfort to her little sister. "Sonia, I know you care deeply to know what happens to him. For the time being, Dr. Stein and his associates will handle Dingo's health from here; we have to focus on saving the entire planet," Midna says with a smile before walking out of the viewing room.
"Dr. Stein, before I go, may I, at least, say goodbye?" Sonia asks looking at the fox doctor. He nods in approval and she walks out and into Dingo's room. Sonia places her hand on clean part of the medical tape and looks up at Dingo's bandage face, "You don't know how much I wish I could hate you right now. You put me through hell! You torture me, gross the hell out of me, you have captured me then tried to turn me over to Robotnik, and during all of this you kept saying you love me, I'm pretty, and all types of other bullshit. Seeing you like this, the only thing I can do is just pity you; Dingo, I don't know if you can hear me but if you can; then you better survive. I have more harsh words for you once you're out of this hospital."
Dingo starts to breathe a little louder and manages to say with a muffled and raspy voice, "I'm sorry pretty Sonia. I'm so sorry pretty Sonia." Sonia's eyes look at Dingo's face. She can only watch as he continuously says the same line over and over as if in a trance. Suddenly, all the monitoring devices start to peak and ping one after the other; while the medical emergency alarms on the machines sound one after the other. Dingo continues to repeat the same line until he starts gasping for air while blood pools in his mouth.
Dr. Stein and several nurses come racing in to stabilize Dingo before he goes into cardiac a rest. "Nurse 20cc of X5S2 and start suction stat! Damnit! A clot must have blown; we have no to time waste. Nurse call all doctors to the OR, and prepare for emergency surgery. Princess Sonia, I am going to have to ask you to leave immediately! We will do all we can to save him, but I will not make any guarantees."
"Good luck Dr. Stein, and do the best you can," Sonia says before escorted out of the room. Midna stands in the hallway and give the thumbs up to her sister. Sonia walks over to Midna and gives a weak smile, "Ok sis, what is our next move?"
Midna leads Sonia to the communication room then punches up the numbers for the COM links. The monitor comes a live showing Sonic and Shadow on one screen while Silver and Manic are on the other. "Guys, we have a big problem. Robotnik knows about everything, and he knows we're coming after him with mom."
"Hold up Midna, is this some kind of joke? Buttnik shouldn't have a clue about what's going to happen," Sonic states.
"Yeah sib, the only way is if he has ears into our private conversations," Manic adds.
"It's actually something worse; Bartleby ratted us out to Robotnik and that's just only the start of the shit! From the beginning, Bartleby's family has planned and conspired with Robotnik to overthrow mom, but their plan didn't work. In turn, his father came up with the fucked up plan to marry Sonia or I, so that he could grab up power. We need a new plan, so anything ideas guys? We can't just run in and try to attack Robotnik's headquarters. He knows that will be coming straight for him, and he knows mom is coming back in less than two days. We lose our element of surprise. Robotnik is going to throw everything at us including the kitchen sink." All the hedgehogs remain silent as they try to think of a way to get around Bartleby's betrayal.
"Who cares!" Sonic exclaims. The blue hedgehog holds up his fist in front of his face and continues with, "Robotnik knows we're coming it just makes things more fun. Now, we can party to the max as we are meant to party. We will show Robotnik that we not scared of him, his robot military, or anything that is throws at us. Shadow, Nico, and I agree on one thing; we are sick and tired of all this sneaking around bullshit. It's time to show Robotnik that we mean business. In less than two days, Robotnik's empire will see its final sunrise, and egg belly along the with those turncoat noble face justice for their crimes. For right now, we have to focus on training and get control over our new powers. What do think Shadow, does it sound like a plan?!"
"I actually agree with the little crybaby; playtime is over and the fun is about to begin. Let's get this done!" Shadow exclaims before he cuts the line.
Manic states with an uplifted beat, "I'm with them, Midna we been pussyfooting around this too long it's time that we stand up and put it into an end Robotnik's craziness. Silver, I'm gamed if you are." Silver nods his head. Manic says goodbye and gives a thumbs up; then the screen goes black as well.
"Sonia, I know this is a little much, but…"
"No Midna, Bartleby is a traitor and a lowlife. The next time I see him; I'm going to rip his noble high powered fucking heart out. Let's get started, we have no time to waste!" Sonia exclaims while walking towards the training ground. Midna smiles following her little sister.
Each hedgehog group walks into an open space area looking at their older sibling as they explain what is about to happen. "I'm going to teach you how to use the power of Chaos Control. This technique requires physical, mental, and more over pure determination. If you want to succeed at this, you are going to have to train and do what I tell you. If you can't handle it; then your SOL because I don't plan to stop until you have mastered this ability. GOT IT!" The three younger hedgehogs nod as Midna, Silver, and Shadow activates their medallions and starts to play.
Let's get down to business (Midna)
To defeat Buttnik (Silver)
"First you must focus your energy into a shield around you," Midna orders.
Did they send me [weaklings?] (Shadow)
When I asked for strong?(Midna)
"Not good enough! You need more power!" Shadow shouts. He watches Sonic pull more energy around him into a field.
You're the saddest bunch I ever met (Shadow)
But you can bet Before we're through (Midna)
"Focus!" Silver commands seeing Manic shield fluctuate high and low.
Mister, I'll make a hero out of you (Silver)]
Tranquil as a forest (Midna)
But on fire within (Silver)
Silver picks up several rocks, "Manic dodge the rocks without taking a step. You must use Chaos Control. ONLY!" Silver hurls the rocks at Manic, but he is hit over and over. Manic tries to run, "Don't you dare run hedgehog! If you can't teleport, then you stand there let those rocks hit you! Until you learn to teleport; don't move!"
Once you find your center, you are sure to win(Midna)
You're a spineless, pale, pathetic lot (Shadow)
And you haven't got a clue (Silver)
Somehow I'll make a hero out of you (Midna)
"Dodge my attacks," Midna orders. She teleports behind Sonia and hits her in the back of her head; then Midna disappears again. Another series of strikes fall upon Sonia again before she can hit the ground, "You're too slow! Focus you energy and teleport if you want to outpace me!"
I'm never gonna catch my breath (Manic)
Say good-bye to those who knew me (Sonic)
Sonic is punch in the face by Shadow and sent flying into a wall with two energy waves following hitting Sonic deeper into the wall.
Boy, was I a fool in school for cutting gym (Sonia)
My bro got me scared to death (Manic)
Manic slightly dodges a massive rock sent at him, but Silver throws another rock hitting him.
Hope he doesn't see right through me (Nico)
"Save yourself Sonic," Shadow says pushing Sonic into a water reserve tank. Sonic falls into the water and flaps his arms around trying to stay afloat. "Use Chaos Control dumbass before you drown!" Shadow yells.
Now I really wish that I knew how to swim (Sonic)
(Be a hero)
You must be swift as the coursing river (Shadow)
(Be a hero)
With all the force of a great typhoon (Midna)
(Be a hero)
With all the strength of a raging fire (Silver)
Mysterious as the dark side of the moon (Shadow, Midna, Silver)
The three young hedgehogs start to learn how to teleport short distances, but the older siblings still outpace them and kick their tails.
Time is racing toward us till the war arrives (Midna)
Heed your every instinct and you might survive (Shadow)
You're unsuited for the rage of war (Silver)
So pack up, go home you're through (Shadow)
At the same time, the older hedgehogs uppercut their younger siblings and sends them flying into the air. Sonic, Sonia, and Manic land face down on the ground. Shadow, Midna, and Silver turn and walk away.
How could I make a hero out of you? (Midna, Shadow, Silver)
(Be a hero)
I must be swift as the coursing river (Sonic)
With all the force of a great typhoon (Sonia)
With all the strength of a raging fire (Manic)
Then Sonic, Sonia, and Manic stand up looking at their siblings, and force their energy around them; then they teleport in front of their older siblings with a smirks on their faces.
Mysterious as the dark side of the moon (Sonic, Sonia, Manic)
(Be a hero)
We must be swift as the coursing river (Sonic, Shadow)
Sonic mirrors Shadow's move for move; then Sonic finally gets behind Shadow and lands a punch.
(Be a hero)
With all the force of a great typhoon (Sonia, Midna)
Sonia is able to dodge Midna's attacks with great ease and grace.
(Be a hero)
With all the strength of a raging fire (Manic, Silver)
Manic dodges rocks without any trouble.
Mysterious as the dark side of the moon (Unison)
"Good job now show me what you got," the older siblings order.
"NOW WITNESS," Sonic starts.
"THE ULTIMATE" Sonia calls out.
"POWER OF" Manic finishes.
"CHAOS CONTROL!" the three hedgehogs say in unison. They disappear into the light.
Thanks for reading and remember please comments. Comments are like rings. The more rings the faster I can run.
Next up:
Episode Seven
Final Battle Pt.3: Gathering Allies and Powers Hidden Within