Autumn Rain Sonadow POV

by Carlata Jones

Sonic comes to Shadows rescue after one of Eggman's robots ends up nearly killing him during a battle. Now Shadow has to live with the Azure hedgehog till he is well enough once again. But as the days go on & his time with the blue blur a dream from long ago comes back to him, something he hadn't had since his time on ARK. rated M for adult language & more cover art by spacecolonie

2. Chapter 2

(AN SLIGHT TRIGGER WARNING!)

AUTUMN RAIN

A SONADOW P.O.V...

PART 2

Sonic's P.O.V

I was cleaning up the living room from our time watching the game. Normally I would do this in no time at all using my speed. But I wanted to take my time to mull over things of what just happened tonight. Needless to say, I was a bit surprised. I mean I knew I always had a slight crush on Shadow, but I also knew that there would be no way he could fall for someone like me. Not with as much as he hates me.

I know he said to put it off as both of us was drunk so I could get it. But I saw something in his eyes when we kissed and felt lust and need in his hands. As I sweep up the mess from the snacks we had and finish cleaning up everything I head for a shower of my own. I knew when we kissed just then I could also feel a need and lust in me that drew me to him. I wanted him just as much. But something told me it would be a long time before either of us could get that far. I think more for him than anything. Though if I was to think about it I would say the same thing as well. This is new for me as well as him and I know it was going to take us time. That is even IF we got that far.

The next few days were slow, there wasn't a lot to do with it raining out right now. Shadow stayed in his room avoiding me, which I didn't blame him for. Me? I stayed in the living room just randomly going through channels not really watching anything. The only time I went near Shadow was to check his wound. It looked a lot better, more than likely due to the Chaos Emerald's power. I had a feeling it wouldn't take but another week or so for him to be fully healed up and back off to G.U.N or wherever he tends to go, and I'll be left alone in my house again.

Sighing I get up to go get myself a glass of milk, as I head to the kitchen I see Shadow coming out of his room.

Hey Shadow.

He looks at me and we hold one another gaze. He grunts at me after a bit and heads to the pantry he grabs a bag of chips and looks at me holding them up.

Sure go for it. Just try not to make a mess, please.

Yeah, whatever.

Oh, so you DO know how to talk after all.

I tell him sarcastically. I only get a growl out of him and an annoyed look. We've been trying to avoid one another ever since that night a few nights ago.

Listen Shadow?

Don't even Sonic. As I said before and will KEEP saying. NOTHING HAPPENED. Got it?

But Shadow?

I SAID DROP IT, FAKER!

He slams the bag of chips down on the counter and they pop open sending chips all over it. I rear back in shock as he stares at me and I look back. We stay like this for a few moments till he takes the chips and gathers them up and throws them out and leaves the kitchen to go put his shoes on.

Hey, where are you going?

Out. Got a problem with that?

Well, no, not really. But it's raining out.

Point being?

He stands up and looks at me with his arms folded. He was clearly mad at me right now. I lower my hand out and look away.

At….at least take an umbrella with you so you don't get wet.

Thanks, but I think I'll take my chances.

Yeah but Shadow…

Before I could say anything else he was gone in a flash of blinding light. He had used his Chaos Control to leave. I should have guessed he would now that he had a Chaos Emerald on hand. Sighing I head back to the living room and shut the TV off and head out myself. I thought I'd go see Tails for a few hours.

As I get there I knock on his door, after a bit Tails opens his door.

Hey Sonic what are you doing out in this weather?

Thought I'd come to see you for a bit if that's alright?

Yeah, I guess? I mean I kind of have company over right now, but I don't think she would mind.

She?

I look over at Tails shoulder and in the hallway was a vixen. She had bright red-orange fur with a cream-tipped tail. She had a yellow hair bow in her brown hair and yellow gold, and a white jumpsuit that matches Tails fur down to a T, and she had matching boots on as well. Her bright blue eyes look at me and she smiles.

Hello, Sonic it's been some time.

She tells me as she places a hand on her hip holding the other up to make a point.

Fiona? Ah, Tails?

I know what you're going to say, Sonic. But I can explain.

Let me guess? You two have been going out for a while behind Scourge's back, haven't you?

How didja know?!

Tails ask me, shocked I knew.

Don't madder. Where's SNOT at Fi? Last I heard you two were living it up like royalty.

Yeah, we were till I found out he was cheating on me with that annoying Pink hedgehog friend of yours.

AMY?!

Yeah. He doesn't know I know so I figured why not come see Tails here, and well in short it started as payback but then I started to fall for him, and he me so we kept it going.

And you're alright with this, Tails?!

Yeah, I am. I mean I knew for a time that she and Scourge had been having problems, we talked all the time and have become friends over the years, and it led to this.

Sonic stares at Fiona scratching his head perplexed.

Huh? Who would have thought my little brother was into Bad girls, not to say Someone as Bad as you Fi.

I know right?

She tells him, shrugging.

Hard to believe I'm into good boys like Tails. I guess I'm just gonna have to be a good little bad girl and learn to live with it. But I'm sure Tails don't mind at all. Especially after what we did last night. Hehe.

She winks at Sonic giggling.

I'M RIGHT HERE YOU GUYS!

Tails yelled out blushing a deep red.

Why do you always have to PICK on me Fi?

She comes over to him and wraps her arms around his shoulders from behind and kisses his cheek.

Because I love seeing you so flustered baby. It's cute. Now you gonna come in out of the rain Sonic? Or you gonna stand out there? I mean what I and Tails had planned can wait.

What DID you two have planned?

Sonic eyes her as if he didn't have an idea of what it was they had planned.

Oh, wouldn't YOU like to know he he… maybe we could convince him for a triple play?

She winks at Sonic giving off a cute little smirk. Tails turn an even brighter red that covers his whole face. She and Sonic keep giggling till Tails blows up.

THAT'S ENOUGH YOU TWO! YOU BEDROOM, NOW, AND YOU BEST BE READY! YOU GET OUT NOW, AND I'LL CALL YOU LATER!

Sonic and Fiona bust up laughing as Tails slams the door in my face leaving me in the rain alone. Laughing still I knocked on the door one last time.

WHAT!?

Sonic whispers something in Tails ear and he glares at Sonic.

Just so you know you, blue BUFFOON, I and Fi are trying for kits, so just stay out of it.

Whoa?! Seriously bro? I mean how long HAVE you two been keeping this act UP!?

I had hoped to get one more tease in but was surprised to find it backfired on him.

`For a year now, and today is our anniversary.

Oh, shit bro, I'm sorry I didn't know.

Yeah, that's kind of the point Sonic.

He stands there with his arms folded as his twin Tails lash about.

We're going to say something to everyone soon, so if you could PLEASE not say anything beforehand it would mean a lot to us.

Hey, don't worry buddy you know I won't.

Thank you. We have been playing this game for a year now and we know Scourge is trying to have kids with Amy, but Amy is playing hard to get so we found out, and well I and Fiona are like 10 steps ahead of them already, and today happens to be the start of her heat and I tend to make the most of it. So if you're not here for anything more I do have a girl waiting on me.

Well, I had hoped to talk with you about something kind of important but it can wait. Anyway, I'll see you later Tails.

Tails looked at me and for the first time that day, he could see something was bothering me.

Sonic, is everything alright?

Yeah, everything's fine. But what about you and Fiona? I mean how long have you guys been trying now?

For about the last four months now.

And still nothing yet?

No, not yet. But I have a feeling…

TAILS! TAILS!

Fiona comes running down the stairs with something in her hands as I and Tails turn around and she throws herself at Tails who nearly falls but ends up hitting the door frame.

OW! Fiona what's wrong!?

Nothings wrong, LOOK!?

She holds out the item and Tails stands there for a moment trying to put two and two together till he finally gets it.

R-R-REALLY FI?! Y-Y-YOU'RE… PREGNANT!? SONIC SHE'S PREGNANT! WE'RE PREGNANT!

Sonic stands there smiling at the two of them laughing.

Congratulations bro.

I give him a thumbs up and winks at him as Tail hugs Fiona. Fiona looks to me to say something to me, but when she looks over I was gone. I had run off in a flash leaving the two along to enjoy their happy moment together. Sure I was thrilled for them, but at the same time, I was sad too. I stop up on a hill and look down at Tails place for a bit till I see them go back inside. I look up at the darkened skies as the rain keeps coming down not showing any signs of letting up. With a sigh, I ran off again not caring where I ended up at.

After an hour of running, I ended up finding myself near Lost Valley. I had no idea till now that I had left U.Z.A via the Red Gate Bridge. I guessed I was lost in thought. Sighing out, and seeing it was still raining, I figured I'd go see The Chaotix. That was if they hadn't moved house again. Sighing out once more, I speed off and before long I'm at their place. I knocked on the door and poke my head in when I heard someone behind me.

Sonic?

I turn around and I'm greeted by a purple chameleon. He was walking from around the corner of his home, so I'm guessing that he was out back in his garden checking on it.

Hey, Espio. Long time no see?

I'll say.

He tells me as he folds his arms going on.

What are you doing out in this weather?

Just going for a run nothing more.

I tell him half-heartedly with a chuckle. He looks me over and he could tell I been out in the rain for a long time. He nods at me as he walks inside gesturing to follow him inside. Nodding my thanks I follow him inside. He tells me to wait where I was and goes for a towel. As I'm waiting I take a couple of steps and look around, making sure to stay on the wood flooring. I could tell things had been looking up for the Chaotix of late. Everything looked new. As I look around, Espio comes back with a towel for me and I thank him and start to dry off. I put the towel around my neck as I see him heading for the kitchen and I follow him. As I walk in he hands me a cup of hot tea and I sit down at their table with it as he leans up against the countertops.

So what brings you all the way out to Lost Valley, Sonic? It's not like you to come this far out from the U.Z.A like this for a hello.

Heh, as I said I was out running. I felt a coupe up in my place and needed some fresh air.

So you decided to go for a run out in the rain.

Yeah, can't get much fresher than that.

I chuckle out taking a sip of my tea. I knew he could tell something was off with. But I wasn't quite ready to talk yet.

So, where's Charmy and Vector at?

Out of town doing a job for Central Labs.

You didn't go with them?

I wasn't feeling too well at the time, with having a cold. Not to say Salma came to see me as well taking time off from being the new Leader to my home village.

I see. How long ago was this job? I mean if you don't mind me asking that is?!

I chuckle out a bit sheepishly looking at him.

I don't, it was about three weeks ago.

How is Salma by the way? I haven't seen her in some time.

She's well, she went with them to help out. I just hope they have yet to drive her mad yet as they do me all the time.

I laugh out about that. Charmy and Vector always had a way of getting on Espio's nerves at times, which annoyed him.

Hey, she's a tough girl, I'm sure she can handle those two.

As he sips from his cup, he glances up and raises an eyebrow.

This is Charmy and Vector we're talking about you know?

I think for a moment till I realized he was right. With Charmy being the scatterbrain he is, and Vector tending to bumble things up at times, they were a couple of grade A clowns. But when it came to a job they were not all that bad really. In fact, they were pretty good despite how Vector could end up making things worse. Somehow he always had a plan and it hardly ever went south. But catch them on a day off. THAT'S another story.

Good point. But hey, at least they're good at what they do, and I'm sure with Salma taking your place, she'll keep them in line. I have seen her work before. She's good.

Indeed. She did learn from the best after all.

Espio states in a proud fatherly way.

Do you mean her Grandmother? She is quite the Woman that chameleon is. So it's no wonder that Salma learned from the best.

Espio glares at me and I laugh at him. I just couldn't help but tease him.

Come on Espio. I'm only teasing you, buddy. I know you had your hand in it as well. She did learn from the best after all.

I give him one of my trademark smiles and a thumbs up. He rolls his eyes at me and chuckles. I take a deep breath in and sigh out, as I go back to staring at my tea. We were quiet for a bit as I finished my tea. I leave some of the tea in the cup and turn it counterclockwise, without realizing it, motion letting the rest of the liquid settle down. With a sigh, I rest my chin on my arms as Espio comes over to take my cup from me and dumps the rest of it out. He tilts his head and looks at me.

Curious?

What's that?

Your tea leaves. There is a lot at the bottom and there's some on the sides as well. Unusual to say the least.

So, a bad omen of some kind in the not-so-distant-future is going to come to get me huh?

Not to say that there is a stem standing up and there is no liquid in the cup.

Huh?

I look at Espio and he shows me. I tilt my head confused as he was.

Doesn't a team stem standing up IN liquid mean a stranger or a lover?

Yes, so this is very strange. I have never seen a tea stem standing up with no liquid in a cup before.

So what does it mean?

I think this bad omen in the not-so-distant future is for someone you love, Sonic. Not for you.

What?! So you mean to tell me anyone of my friends could be in danger soon?

Well, the standing steam means lover, so…?

Sighing out, I sit down and rub my temples. Seeing how I was troubled, he pours me a fresh cup of tea in a clean cup and asked me to do what I did before, but this time to pour the tea out. So I do. But just like before it showed the same signs. A bunch of tea leaves at the bottom, some on the side, and the one little stem standing right up in the middle with no liquid in it. As we look in the cup, I look at him with a raised eyebrow.

You do know I find this creepy right?

Just to make sure…

For a second time he has me do it all again, and again it shows the same thing for the third time. We look at one another and I walk over to the kitchen window sighing out.

You know my tea readings are hardly ever wrong, Sonic. Why do you think I charge so much for them? You're lucky you're a close friend or I'd charge you 300 dollars right now.

Yeah, I know, and that's what bothers me so much.

I hold myself as I turn around and lean against the countertop and cross my legs, as I let out a sigh as my ears fold back and I look away.

Alright Sonic, Spill. You've been in a sort of mood since you came inside. You said you were in the neighborhood and said you'd thought you'd stop by to say hi. But I get the feeling there is more to it, isn't there?

He looks at me with a fold of his arms and a somewhat annoyed, if not concerned look on his face as he goes on.

But I know you all too well Sonic. The Sonic I know wouldn't be out in the rain unless something was going on. Two of which would be, (A) Eggman is, and or WAS up to no good. Which I'm sure I would have heard. Or (B) Something is bothering you so much you just happened on my doorstep with nowhere else to run to. So what's going on, Sonic? You know I'm here for you if you need to talk, and now would probably be a good time since Vector and Charmy aren't here to tease you about it.

I sometimes hate how he could read me like a book. But that was Espio for you. It's why he's such a great detective and all, and such a great friend too. I drop an arm and sigh out again. I was reluctant in telling him since I promised Shadow I wouldn't say anything to anyone. But right now I needed advice, and when I found myself here in Lost Valley, Espio was the first person to come to mind for said advice. I knew he would take me seriously and not make fun of me. It's what I liked about him. A no-nonsense kind of guy. He places a hand on my shoulder and I sigh out giving in as I look at him.

Fine, I'll tell you, but you HAVE to promise not to say anything to anyone got it? If everyone finds out I'm dead meat.

You know I would never do that to you, Sonic. You know you can trust me.

Sighing out, and giving a smile, I nod, and I tell him EVERYTHING that had happened in the last few months. After about an hour of telling him everything. He folds his arms and rubs his chin.

I see. So that's what's been bugging the hell out of you?

Yeah, and I don't know what to do. I have been taking care of him for these past few months now and then that stuff during game night happened and now I'm confused. I mean you know how STUBBORN he can be.

Not just him, but you can be too at times you know?

He chuckles out and I glare at him. But he did have a point.

I'll let you have that one. But back on topic here. What do you think I should do? I just can't help but feel that he felt something too. Sure it may have been the Beers talking, but I get the feeling that there was more to it than that.

Well, my guess is he could be just as confused as you are. Maybe even scared to admit it. You may wish to talk about why he doesn't. Think for a moment, Sonic? You and he have had a long rivalry with one another for years. You know, as well as the rest of us, he would never admit it, but even though he hates you, I think deep down he values your friendship more than anything, and he just won't admit that he is finally realizing after all these years, that you mean more to him then just as a friend. So when he kissed you and tried something with you and you let it happen...Well, I think you may get where I'm going.

Yeah, I think I kind of do. I mean, ever since our battle on ARK years ago, I always had some sort of aberration towards him. Like I was drawn to him you know? Ever since the day we first met and the police and G.U.N soldiers mistook me for him. I was annoyed at first yes. But I was also curious about him too. He intrigued me a lot. It wasn't till our final battle on the ARK, just before we took down The Final Hazard, that I realized I might like him as more than a rival you know? But I wasn't fully sure till about two years ago when we fought together during that battle against the Egg Fleet again with just the two of us, that I realized that I started seeing him as more than a rival and friend. But maybe as something more.

But because of what happened that night, and him saying he would end up killing you if you told anyone. Things have become...AWKWARD…now between the two of you, and you've been avoiding one another as best as you can unless there is a reason to interact with one another. Am I right?

Awkward is an UNDERSTATEMENT, to say the least Esp.

I sigh out and rest my head on my arms and bury my face groaning out. I lift my face up from my arms and start to roll around a cherry tomato leftover from my salad Espio had made for us, for lunch. Sighing out annoyed, I pop it into my mouth and eat it. Swallowing I look back at Espio.

So what should I do? I want to talk about it with him, let him know how I feel, but I know the moment I do, he'll just end up brushing it off as nothing ever happened. I mean...is it so WRONG that I have feelings for him? Hell, I thought out of anyone, I would end up with Sally or Amy. But now trying to be with Amy is out of the question, and Sal? Well, last I heard, I think she and that stink bag, Geoffrey St. John, were back together.

So what's up with Amy?

She's seeing Scourge so I was told.

You're joking? Isn't he seeing Fiona?

Now THAT'S a story right there. But I promised I wouldn't say anything to anyone. So you're gonna have to wait on that one.

Fair enough. But back to you and Shadow.

Right, I don't know what to do. I do like him I think...but the question is...does he even like me? Or does he even see me as anything more than a rival and a fake to him? Does he see me as something more as well?

Well, I think for now. Maybe you should let this play out. Keep an open mind. As I said it could be he is just as surprised and confused by all of this as well, and he doesn't know what to think about it. Maybe give it time and you'll see what is truly going on.

But what of the tea reading? I mean we did it three times, and it was the same. Something bad is going to happen to someone I love and soon. Is that someone Shadow? Or is it one of the others? I know the standing stem means a lover. But what if it means one of my friends? Or that someone I don't know will come after me, him, or one of you guys?! Espio your the one that tends to be the logical one here. What the hell should I do?!

First off, I think you need to stop freaking out and breathe. Second off, I know for a fact, a standing stem means a lover. So therefore it has to be someone you love. Or a future lover, meaning if you're right about Shadow…

THAT HE COULD BE IN DANGER!

Yes. But don't go flipping out and trying to help him or get in his way. You know as well as I do that will only make things worse in the end, and ANY possible chances you have with him. So for now, just watch and observe from afar, and just gently let him know to be careful when he is out there, and in due time I'm sure things will become clear for the both of you.

Thanks, Espio. I'm glad I ended up here. You really do know how to clear things up. It's going to be hard not to worry about him. I care for him Espio, and I just don't want to see him hurt. He's been through too much in his life, and I just want to see him happy for once.

No problem, Sonic, and truth be told, I think a lot of us want that for him. I heard the tragic story of how he lost Maria so I understand how he can be so distrustful with people and letting them in. It could be he is scared to let people in because he's worried he's going to lose them, or they're going to hurt him. With the life he has had in the past, I'm not surprised really?

Huh? Now that you say that, I never thought about it that way. He's been alone all his life. He lost the only person he truly cared for and loved in a blink of an eye. He had to witness it happen right before him, and then later be captured and put into stasis for over 50 years then waking up to a new world and time. With the only thought of revenge on the ones who took the only person he ever loved and cared for away from him, then finding out he was lied to most of his life, that he is of some alien race that wanted to DESTROY the very planet that said person he loved and cared for, only to finally be free of it all in the end...just to be... ALONE...feeling that if he lets someone in...it will just happen all over again, and history will repeat itself once more. So the only way was for him to close himself from the world and put up every wall and barrier to protect himself from it all happening again. But now that I'm in the picture…

Sighing out I rest my head on my arms again staring at nothing as I think. I feel Espio place a hand on my shoulder and gently squeeze it.

What if I mess this up, Espio? What if I mess it up so bad he really DOES kill me in the end? Just the very thought of that happening, of me hurting him more or even losing him...it's funny...but…

But?

Espio gently prods.

But even though we're not together yet, just the thought of losing him pains me. I don't want to do that to him Espio.

I look at him, worry etched on my face, and in my eyes. Just the thought of losing him, even as a friend and rival… it pained me so much.

Listen, Sonic. For now, let things play through on their own. I'm sure in due time everything will become as clear as the sky right now.

He smiles at me as I look up, and for the first time, I see that the rain has passed. I look at him smiling and tell him thank you. As I get up to help with the dishes we hear a knock at the door. Wondering who it could be, I follow Espio as he goes to answer it. Wondering who it was I round the corner to the kitchen and gasp out surprised.

Shadow's P.O.V…

As I knock on the door to the Chaotix's home, Espio answers it. As I was about to say something when I hear a gasp and looked up, and my eyes widened in surprise.

Shadow?!

Sonic?!

What are you doing here?!

We both ask at once. Clearly, something was up if he was all the way out on Southern Island and seeing Espio.

Well...to be honest, I was just on my way out. I was just helping Espio clean up the lunch he made us.

I look at him with my arms folded, and an eyebrow arched. He scratches at the back of his head giving me a sheepish grin and laugh. I sigh out and place a hand on my hip as I gesture with my other one.

Well if that's the case. Do you mind leaving? I need to speak with Espio on something private.

Sheesh, you could at least say PLEASE, Shads.

I narrow my eyes at him getting annoyed with him. I was about to say something when Espio stepped in.

I think that is enough of that you two. But Sonic, if there isn't anything more you need, then how about heading out why I speak with Shadow.

Sure, Espio, no problem, and thanks again for your help. See you at home Shadow.

Sure, whatever faker.

I move out of the way for Sonic to leave. He tells Espio thank you for his help, and I raise an eyebrow wondering what he meant. He said it was nothing and was gone in a blue blur. Sighing out, Espio turns around and walks into the kitchen, and I follow behind him, closing the door behind me. As I enter the kitchen I see Espio cleaning up some dishes, and putting on a pot of water for tea. After a bit the water was ready and he poured us both a cup as I sat down.

So what was up with the faker?

Nothing much, he just needed some advice on something.

Anything I should know about?

No. So anyway, what brings you here?

I remain quiet for a time, sipping at my tea. I wasn't used to asking for help, or advice for that matter. So this was a little new to me, to say the least. Espio waits patiently for me to speak. It was something I liked about him. He was always patient with people. Always on guard, and never letting his guard down. It was what I admire most about him. He kind of reminded me of me, calm cool, and collected till someone annoys the hell out of you till you lose it. As I remain quiet, I end up turning my cup counterclockwise three times without realizing it. Till I sigh out at last.

I've...I've been having these dreams of late.

Dreams you say?

Yes. I had them before, in the past, before I met all of you. Back on the ARK before I lost…

I sigh out, as my ears lay flat against my head as I think about her.

Maria?

Espio finishes what I couldn't and I look up at him annoyed, but my face softens back as I let out another sigh and a nod.

Yeah, before I Lost Maria.

So why come to me then?

You were the first person I thought of really? I mean, I don't know why I came here, to start with. I guess my feet did the running this time, why my thoughts were someplace else.

I see. So tell me of this dream you've been having then?

I look over at him and nod. I tell him everything I know, and of the dream, I've been having. After I tell him, word for word, after about an hour of explaining, he hums out in thought.

So, in the dream, you're walking in some kind of forest you say? Where the trees are red, yellow, gold and orange, till a blue blur of some kind runs into you knocking you down, it holds out a hand to you and says something but you can't tell what it is, but only a few words. Then all of a sudden as you start to reach for it everything around you goes dark, and you're alone and in a pool of your own blood. Am I right?

Yes, that's right. I asked Maria about it long ago and she told me she read in a book that if someone has the same dream over and over again it means something. But what it means is up to the one having it.

I see. Well, she wouldn't be so far off really. I'm no dream reader myself but I do know a little bit. But you say up till your time on the ARK you haven't had these dreams till you started Staying with Sonic?

Yes, that's right.

Hmm...I wonder?

What's going on Espio?

I'm not sure, but are you done with your tea by chance?

Yes, why?

He holds out his hand and I give it to him. He looks into it for a bit till his brow scrunches up in thought.

Intriguing?

Espio?

You're tea leaves.

My...tea leaves?

Yes. As you know I do some tea leaf readings, and well yours are very interesting.

How so?

There are a lot of tea leaves on the bottom, with some on the side of the cup. But the most peculiar thing is that there is a stem sticking straight up in the bottom of the cup. No liquid in it.

What does that all mean?

I ask him, a little reluctant to believe him and his foolishness.

Well, in short, it means that something bad will happen in the not-so-distant future to someone you love.

You're joking, right?

I'm not. Rarely do any of my readings go wrong, I can prove it to you if you like?

How?

I see him grabbing a clean cup and adding more tea leaves and hot water to the cup. After letting it sit for a bit, he asks me to turn the cup counterclockwise three times and dump the liquid out and hand me the cup. Again, just like before he tells me that there were a lot of tea leaves at the bottom, some on the side and that one strange stem standing upright in the middle of it all. He shows me, it and the other cup and I see he was right. I was still skeptical so I asked him to do it one more time. So a second time, I do as I was told, dump the liquid out, and again, it was the same. I was starting to regret calling his tea readings foolish.

I'm starting to see how your tea readings are not so foolish after all.

You'd be surprised how right I am every time, Shadow.

I sit back down and lean on the table with my elbows on it and rest my chin on one of my hands.

So what does it all mean? I mean, there isn't anyone I love, let alone like.

You say that, but I know you like Rouge and Omega.

Your wrong Espio. I only tolerate them.

Mm-hmm sure, you do? Well, there is me. I happen to know you like me.

No, I respect you. Besides, I really don't see you as boyfriend material. No offense.

He holds up a hand tilting his head a bit and smiles.

None taken I assure you. Besides, I'm seeing Rouge right now anyway.

Was wondering who that she-devil was seeing this time. I would have never thought you'd be into someone like her.

I look at him with a raised eyebrow.

I know right?

Well, we both know it can't be Knuckles or Tails. For one, Knuckles is seeing Julie-Su, and I have the feeling Tails is seeing a certain red Vixen right now.

You're talking about Fiona, aren't you?

How long have you known?

For about a year or so now. You?

Same. But I kept it to myself figuring that they were just friends.

Guess we were both wrong then huh?

Yeah.

So anyway, my dream, and the tea reading?

Right. From the sound of it, it sounds like your dream is in the Autumn woods.

The Autumn woods?

Yes, it's a place that few see since it tends to show up out of the blue.

Weird. Maria told me that it was Autumn, due to it raining and all.

It could very well be. Do you remember any other distinguishing characteristics of the dream?

Not really no. But if it is this Autumn woods you're talking about, then where is it?

That's the thing. As I said it tends to show up out of the blue. Or to be more precise, a gateway will. It's different every time it shows up. Why it shows up, no one knows. But you could be right too. About it being Autumn here on Mobius since it was raining.

Then what about this blue blur, with a bit of peach, I've been seeing as well?

I have a theory but you won't like it.

Why?

I cock an eyebrow at him wondering.

Because the only blue blur I know of is Sonic.

WHAT!? ARE YOU IMPLYING THAT FAKER HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH MY DREAM!

I stand up yelling at him angrily. He just stands there holding up a hand calmly. Another trait I liked about him. You can throw everything, even the kitchen sink at him, and he'll take it. Letting you get your anger out.

As I said, it is only in theory, nothing more.

Scoffing out, I sit back down and let him go on.

I also did say you wouldn't like it. But think for a moment, Shadow. How could it be any other blue blur out there? I mean the only other one would be Metal Sonic, but I think he would rather kill you than help you.

You got a point there. But what does that faker have to do with any of this?

Who knows? Maybe Maria is right? This is something you have to figure out on your own. All I can do is give advice. Nothing more.

Why do I get the feeling you've put something together, and won't share it with me.

Because I think it may be best for you to figure it out on your own. But if you really do wish to know, I can tell you.

Sighing out, I turn away thinking as my ears fall back. I was confused, to say the least. I mean, how could that blue rat fit into all of this? Could it be that the blue blur in my dream is Sonic, and if so how does he fit into all of this? Why is it now all of a sudden I start having that dream again as I'm staying with him till I'm healed up when I haven't had them since the day on the ARK? I don't understand. But to me, it sounded like Espio did. I knew I may not like what I would hear but I nod and look back at him.

Tell me what you know.

He looks at me and nods.

For one, I know about the battle with Eggman and his Egg Iceman you took on, Sonic told me. He has also told me he has been taking care of you as well for the last few months. I know the two of you are the best of friends even though you won't admit it, but maybe you're starting to develop feelings for him? Or have been over time up till now.

What?! Me? In love with that FAKE hedgehog? You're joking, right?

Well, it depends? Has anything happened between the two of you of late?

I look...no glare at him wondering where this was going. He holds up his hands and nods.

Anything you tell me stays between us and this room. I promise. You know I won't say anything to anyone.

I hated to admit it but he was right. Unless it endangered someone or could hurt someone, he wouldn't say anything till he knew for sure of what was going on. Sighing out I tell him.

The other night there was a game on. We had a few beers and...well...something happened between us.

Like what?

I'm sure it was only the beer's talking then. But, I kind of...we kind of had a moment with one another….were I ah…

I cough into my hand looking away. I could tell a deep red blush crossed my face, and up to my ear tips, as I went on.

Kind of kissed him and held him against the wall as we did. He didn't move or try to fight back. I found it weird he would but, at the moment it happened I wanted more. I wanted more of him. His sent. Everything he had to offer me. I don't know what came over me. But I could see it in his eyes after we kissed. He wanted more of it too. At least… I think he did?

What happened after?

Someone came knocking on the door and broke whatever spell we were under. Afterward, I went for a shower. Later he came into my room and checked on my wound and for a moment that spell was back till I ended it. Telling him that nothing happened and that if he told anyone I would end his life.

Typical of you with the killing threats.

Espio tells me with a chuckle. I look at him with an annoyed look but sigh out.

Sorry. But ever since then everything's been awkward between the both of you?

Yeah.

Did he want to talk about it?

He did yes, but as I said, I didn't because I blamed it on the beer, and nothing more. So what do you make of it? I mean, my dream and such? How does it all fit?

In short, I think maybe you've had feelings for Sonic for some time now, and you're afraid of falling through with those feelings. When was the very first time you felt something for him?

I think for a bit and sigh out.

Back on the ARK, just before we took on the Final Hazard. The things he did, to go so far just to save a planet he loved. To save the people who mistook him for me. When I wanted to destroy it for Maria. I saw his power. His strength. When he was shot into space, or so I had thought at the time, I was kind of sad, figuring he was nothing special and the game was over. That was till he showed up out of the blue again, and we had our final battle. Then took on the Final Hazard. Then after that, well you know the rest.

I do. But what about during the Black Arms invasion?

I know I was all over with that, only trying to figure out who I was. But I do remember a few times of him helping me out. Even going as far as to remind me who I truly was. It irked me, to say the least, but it did bring some insight to me in the end and made me realize that maybe I started seeing him as more than a rival. But as a friend. But as the years went on, I only saw him now and then. Avoiding him if I could. Only interacting with him when I had to. I hated how he would always make me see things as they should be. Make me question myself about it all. Up till two years ago was the last time I saw him. Then the stunt Eggman pulled with his Egg Iceman, and now here we are.

Indeed.

So you think that everything I told you all leads up to him? That blue faker?

It's the only thing I can think of?

What about that tea reading you did three times? You don't think that lover bit is him, do you?

Maybe?

Then what do you suggest I do?

The only thing you can do.

Which is?

Let things play out. See how things go from there. I know it's more than likely you'll be heading back to G.U.N soon. Or they'll call on you soon, but till then, let things play out. Maybe in due time, that dream of yours will finally become clear.

But to have something like that, of the future, isn't that rare or something? Especially since I don't have any psychic abilities?

One doesn't need psychic abilities to have the same dream over and over again. It can happen to just about anyone. The problem is if the one having them chooses on whether or not to believe them, and follow through with them. In the end, it will be up to you whether or not you wish to follow through with them or ignore them. I do have one other theory if I may?

Yes?

Maybe it's a sign?

A...SIGN? What do you mean?

Maybe...now just hear me out here and don't go trying to kill me. But...you haven't had these dreams since your time on the ARK. When Maria was alive. But now that you've been staying with Sonic, you're having them again. So maybe...this is somehow Maria's doing?

WHAT!? ARE YOU INSINUATING THAT ALL THIS IS BECAUSE OF MARIA?!

Not trying to. I'm just saying, it's been over fifty years or so now since you had these dreams. Maybe she is trying to tell you something?

Like what?

Like maybe...it's time to move on and be happy? After all, from what I was told, that was her dying wish. To give the people of this planet a chance to be happy? So shouldn't that mean you as well? You now live on the very planet she loved. So why can't you be happy as well now that our biggest threat is Eggman?

My eyes widened in shock surprise. Could what he is saying be true? Could Maria be behind this somehow? Could she be reaching out to me from beyond the grave? Telling me something I don't know? Or perhaps she is telling me something more, and right now I'm too clueless to figure it out. I turn my head away and think for a moment, my ears lay back as I do. But no matter how much I try to think of other possible ways, I can't come up with a single damn one.

"Maria, is this all true? Are you trying to tell me it's time for me to be happy as well? But what if I'm not ready to be happy? What if I end up screwing things up? What if I end up doing more bad than good? What then?"

I look to Espio and get up with a nod. I push my chair in and walk out. He follows behind me as we head to the front door. As I place a hand on it I look over my shoulder at him.

Thank you for your time Espio. I'll think over what you said and take your advice to heart.

Any time Shadow, and just so you know I think you as a valuable friend and ally. So any time you need help, I'll be here.

Thank you.

With that, I walk out of the house and down the pathway a bit till I start to run. As I get partway down the road my communicator goes off.

This is Shadow.

It's about time Agent Shadow. Where the hell have you been?!

Didn't Agent Rouge not tell you that I was recovering from nearly getting killed by Dr. Eggman Commander Tower, sir?

She did yes, but I think it's high time that you return to base now.

But sir, I'm not fully recovered yet. I need a few more weeks.

Are you disobeying a direct order Agent Shadow?!

I rub at my temples and sigh out.

No Commander Tower, sir.

Good. Now get to the HQ on the double!

With that, I end the call and I take out the emerald and use Chaos Control to teleport to G.U.N HQ.

Espio P.O.V…

I stand on my doorstep with my arms folded as I watch Shadow leave. But he soon stops the moment he gets partway down the pathway. I watched curiously as I saw he was talking with someone. My guess is, that it was Commander Towers. After a bit I see him taking out a Chaos Emerald and vanish in a flash of light.

Hmm…I hope whatever it was, Shadow, I hope you'll be careful and remember our talk.

I say to the wind before me as I walk back inside. I head back to clean up when Vector, Charmy, and my daughter, Salma walk in giggling. I barely glance at them as I head into the kitchen. My daughter sees something was troubling me and follows me.

Daddy?

I barely acknowledge her as I look down at the six cups before me. Both were identical to the other. It worried me. Salma comes over and kisses my cheek and she looks at the six cups as well and gaps out.

DADDY!?

I know.

But who?

The three in the back are Sonic's. The ones in front are Shadows.

But...they LOOK the same.

I know, and that is what worries me. It truly worries me.

But the stem…

Yeah, I know.

But how is that even POSSIBLE?!

I'm not sure. I have never seen anything like it before.

Did you tell them?

I did yes. I told them what it meant and to be careful. So now it's up to them whether they follow up on the advice I gave them or choose to ignore it.

But, Sonic AND Shadow? I would have NEVER guessed they would like one another.

Same here. For now, keep this between us.

Right.

She helps me rinse out the cups before Vector or Charmy saw and we clean up the kitchen and talk about how the mission went.

Sonic's P.O.V…

I finally made it home with next to little problems. The sun was just setting by the time I got home. As I entered the house I could tell Shadow hadn't made it back. Even though I was a bit worried about him, I know he could take care of himself. Without much left to do, I set about making dinner for when he came home. As I finish there comes a knock on my door and I go over to answer it. As I opened the door I was surprised to see Silver there.

Hey Silver, long time no see. What are you doing here?

I was in the neighborhood and I thought I'd drop by.

Well come on in, I just finished dinner, and made extra if you want some?

Sure. But I came to ask for your help with something.

I walk inside and I hear him closing the door behind him as we enter my kitchen and I turn off the stove and look at him.

Help with what?

Well, it's a bit complicated really.

How so? The future in danger yet again?

Yes and no.

Is it Mephiles again?

No, it's not.

Then what is going on?

It's Shadow.

SHADOW!?

I was surprised to hear that something was wrong and had to do with Shadow.

What happened?! Where is he?! Is he alright?! Did his wound open up again!?

What? Wait, wait, hold on Sonic. Calm down. For now, I believe him to be alright, but what is this with him being hurt?

A few months back Eggman attacked and he was taking him on his own. He ended up nearly getting killed till I came along and saved him. He's been staying at my place recovering, but he has yet to come home tonight.

I see. Well, I don't think that has to do with what I know now.

How so?

A couple of days ago I got a vision. The vision foretold me that Shadow would end up being hurt badly, by something. You were there as well but hurt badly as well. Barely alive.

What?!

I'm unsure of some details, but I do know Eggman is behind it all like always. I think he found some sort of new source of power again. I couldn't tell what it was. But I know it wasn't good. All I could see was a black and red blur, and a blue-colored blur as well. I knew at once it had to be you two.

What of this new power Eggman has?

Not sure. But it felt like Iblis trigger and the Phantom Ruby combined into one.

Does that mean that Infinite is back, and is stronger than before?

No, I went to speak with Zero…

Zero?

Yeah, I guess that was his name before he became Infinite. Anyway. I spoke to him and he told me he's been living happily now with Gadget, and the others in Sunset Heights, and knew nothing of this. But it did worry him some. He said he would look into it. He and Gadget are now the leaders of the HQ in Sunset Heights and have been doing well watching over everything. But ever since the attack back then everything has been quiet.

Huh? Well, I'm not sure what is going on, but I do know old Egghead has been quiet of late. Meaning only one thing.

He is up to something, and nothing good.

Exactly.

Do you think we should tell the others? Just to be safe?

I get the feeling we should keep this on the down-low as much as possible.

Same.

Right, I'll let Shadow know when he comes home.

Alright. Till then I'll see you later, Sonic.

See you, Silver.

I show him out and stand on the step of my home. I look on as I watch him fly off. But I call after him before he is gone.

Hey, Silver, how long do you think till this goes down?

I see him stop and look back at him as he calls down.

Not a clue. So keep on your toes, Sonic.

Right you to buddy.

He nods at me and flies off, and as he does I see a new spring storm moving in, and the sense of impending doom. I was worried. Silver's info had shaken me a bit and made me wonder what was going on and why Shadow wasn't home yet. Narrowing my eyes I ran back inside to make sure everything was turned off and put away and I ran back out of the house locking it. I knew, Shadow could take care of himself, even in the state he was in, he was pretty much healed up, but after what Silver told me I was worried. I go running down the way and head right to Tails place first. I saw Silver going towards Amy's place so I thought it'd be a good idea to head the other way. As I do I press a button on my left glove and hold it up to my mouth as I run.

Hey, Silver come in.

I'm here, Sonic.

I'm going to head to Tails' place and let him know what is going on. If anything I should tell him. Keep a lookout for, Shadow and let him know as well alright? But don't tell Amy alright? The last thing we need is her getting in the way.

Sure Sonic, no problem, and I won't say anything to her.

With that, I pick up my speed and race on over to Tails' place.

G.U.N HQ Radical City...1700 hours… Shadow's P.O.V…

I made it to G.U.N HQ in Radical City, it took me some time with still haven't fully recovered. I was only able to teleport to Red Bridge and run the rest of the way from there. I was out of breath, so whatever Commander Tower's had had best be good. I wasn't in a very good mood right now. My wound on my chest and side was hurting again and was becoming annoying. As I walked into the building, I was greeted by a couple of guards who saluted me. I grunt out as I walk in. Once in, a human woman in her 30's came over to me. She was in a standard G.U.N gray, knee-length skirt, a white dress blouse with a gray tie, and a gray jacket with six gold buttons on it with a gold G.U.N. tie pin, and black high heels. Her hair was dark brown and in a low low bun that was in a hairnet, and her 1950's style cat-eye glasses sat on her nose giving her a no-nonsense appeal.

Shadow, so good of you to come in on such short notice.

She greets me in her usual soft sweet voice.

Just tell me what is going on, Beatrice, and are Rouge and Omega here yet?

I ask her in an annoyed tone.

Y-Yes, they are, just showed up twenty minutes ago and everyone has been waiting on you, Sir.

I grunt out at her to go on.

R-right. Well, Commander Tower's ask you to come in because we got readings of Eggman being up to no good again.

EGGMAN!? I thought I dealt with that neanderthal months ago?!

Y-You did, Shadow, Sir. But it looks like he's back for more.

She tells me as we walk down the hallway and to the debriefing room.

Lovely. So what is he up to now?

We're not fully sure just yet, this is why we asked you to come in. We got readings that looked familiar but thought we would ask you personally first on it.

Right.

As we walk I stop all of a sudden, and hiss out holding my side. I place a hand on the walls to steady myself as Beatrice rushes over to me.

AGENT SHADOW?!

I'm alright...just...my wound is acting up again.

I hold out my hand and see that there is a bit of blood on it. I growled out realizing I had gone and put some strain on it again, causing it to open again, even after having the stitches out. When Sonic finds out he isn't going to be happy. I already wasn't as is. From the look of it, it wasn't bad but with using most of my Chaos Energy up, then having to run the rest of the way, my body was already tired, and Sonic just took the stitches out a couple of days ago. I had told the Commander I was still recovering, but as always, I had to listen to him. I couldn't risk...I stopped in my thinking as I realized what I was doing. Why the hell should I care what Sonic thinks, or that G.U.N finds his home or any of that stuff. Scoffing out, I take a right-hand turn down the corridor and head for the infirmary. Beatrice follows me and helps me. Once in we're greeted by one of the medical staff. At once they set to work cleaning and redressing the wound up. They give me some pain medicine and we head back down to the debriefing room. Once there I push open the doors so hard they slam against the walls as I walk, making everyone in the room, but Omega, jump. I was in a very foul mood and ready to kill people.

THIS BETTER BE GOOD TOWER'S! THANKS TO YOU MY WOUND OPENED UP AGAIN AS I WAS WALKING DOWN HERE! SO YOU BETTER MAKE SURE IT WAS WORTH IT!

Towers looks at me, not once fazed by my outburst. He stood at the front of the room with his hands behind his back as I walked in. Rouge looks over at me as I come to stand next to her, and fold my arms.

Right, now that Shadow is here we can begin.

He turns to the screen before us all, as Beatrice turns the lights down. He takes a remote control and presses a button on it and the screen comes on.

Since Eggman's last attack back in January, we have been keeping a close eye on him. His Egg Iceman was a powerful robot from what we've surmised, and according to Agent Rouge, nearly took down Agent Shadow for good. We do not know the full extent of everything, but since then we've been watching and waiting, and it has finally paid off. It turns out the Eggman has somehow managed to create some kind of new power source. The reading shows it looks similar to the Phantom Ruby and Iblis itself.

WHAT!? HOW IS THE POSSIBLE?!

That is what we wish to know Agent Shadow. When we caught wind of this we took action. Our HQ in Crisis City told us that they saw Eggman at the Flame Core of Spagonia.

WHAT!? What in the world is the Doctor up to now?!

We do not know. But we fear the worst as always. We have a hunch that if these readings are true then it's big. Imagine if you would, the powers of Iblis and the Phantom Ruby combined as one, that could spell disaster.

Tower hits another button and the screen shifts over to Sunset Heights, and onto a very familiar Jackal. I softly growl out and narrow my eyes at the Commander.

Why are you watching Infinite for? What does he have to do with this?

He goes by Zero now, but as you know he used to have connections with Dr. Eggman, and the Phantom Ruby.

I place a hand at my hip letting the other one rest at my side.

I'm to believe that the good Doctor will go after Infinite and try to use him to use this new Phantom Ruby power source?

It's possible since, in the past, he was able to before. But because this being something new and different, we believe that he may be after something, or someone, else.

The screen shifts over and shows a red wolf with glasses on. At once I knew who it was. That rookie, Gadget I believe his name was, from when we were fighting Infinite. My eyes widen and I take a step forward but Rouge stops me by placing a hand on my shoulder. This doesn't go unnoticed by Towers. He grunts out with a nod and goes on.

Yes, I had a feeling you would recognize him right away. We believe that Eggman maybe after the kid.

But...WHY!?

We are unsure at this time. Right now, we can't take a risk of him unleashing this new power. So we're sending you back to Spagonia and to the Flame Core. Your mission is to stop Eggman before he can get his hands on whatever it is he is after.

But sir, my wound!

I start to say as I hold a hand up to me thrusting the other out, making me wince slightly.

I'm sorry, Shadow. But we can't risk waiting another moment. You're to be ready to leave in two hours' time.

But if I go as is right now, and we run into trouble, I won't be able to protect Rouge or Omega should they need it.

"I do not need protection. I can take care of myself."

Point as side Omega. If my wound opens up again, I'll only be a liability instead of an asset. Not to say my powers have yet to fully return. I was only able to teleport to the Red Gate Bridge and had to run the rest of the way.

I'm sorry Agent Shadow. But we need to figure out what Eggman is up to.

Why not send Rouge and…

ENOUGH, AGENT SHADOW! THAT IS AN ORDER! YOU AND TEAM DARK ARE TO BE READY IN TWO HOURS, THAT IS A DIRECT ORDER! IS THAT UNDERSTOOD!?

Tower slams his hands on the table looking at me. I look back, pissed. Sighing out, I glare at him and nod.

Yes, Commander Tower sir.

Good. Now go get ready to leave. I will have files ready once abroad the plan so you can look into it more. You're dismissed.

He turns his back on us showing he is done. Growling out, I throw my arm down and turn on my heels and start walking out.

ROUGE, OMEGA LETS GO NOW!

R-Right, Shadow.

"Affirmative, Shadow."

As we walk down the hallway, Rouge looks at me worried.

Shadow, maybe I could give Towers a talking to. See if I can get him to let you off this one, why I and Omega do this.

You know that won't do any good, Rouge. He's a stubborn man that Tower's.

"Indeed. If you like I could hold him at point-blank range and threaten him to allow you more rest. You will become a liability if you can not do your job."

Don't bother Omega. He's not worth it. Now come on we best get ready.

At least call Sonic and let him know. You know he's going to worry about you.

Forget the Faker. He can worry all he wants. Now come on, we don't have a lot of time left, and I want to make sure to get my bike on there without damaging it like last time.

I grunt out as we keep walking till we hit the loading docks. At once I could see everyone buzzing about, like bees at a hive getting things ready. As we stand about, a soldier runs over to us as salutes us.

Agent Shadow, Agent Rouge, and Omega, sirs! I got those files that Commander Tower wanted me to give to you. He said to look over them ASAP.

Fine, you're dismissed.

Thank you, Sir.

The guy salutes us again and runs off as I was opening my file to look over everything I catch in the corner of my eye, my motorcycle being loaded up. I watch carefully as one of those morons ends up bumping it. Growling out I shove the files into Rouge's hands and run over yelling at them…

Rouge P.O.V…

As I was looking at the files, I saw Shadow shoving his into my hands. I started to protest but as I look up I see why. One of the men had gone and bumped his motorcycle pretty good against another of the crates. He really loves that thing a lot. I have seen him take such good care of it. I could never understand why he would want it to keep when he can run all over the place with barely any effort. Though, I guess right now it could come in handy if what he said about his powers and energy not being fully restored. At least it was specially built for stealth so it was as silent as a black panther hunting its prey. I used to watch him work on it for hours on end and how it brought joy to him in doing so. But my main concern is the wound on his side and chest. I could tell he wasn't lying about it having spit open again. I just hope the Commander is a smart man and was sending us with some First-Aid things for him. But for now, I would take point in this matter and have him stay back till we really needed him.

I take both our files and walk over to where Shadow was looking at his bike making sure it was safe. Omega wasn't far behind. As he stands up I place a hand on his shoulder and he looks at me a bit annoyed.

Shadow, I know you're pissed right now, and I can't blame you. But if Tower won't let you stay behind and rest, then at least let me take charge here for now?

Let you take charge?

Yes. For now, just follow my lead in things. I know you don't like it when…

Fine. But I'll step in if I have to. For now, let's get going. I want to do a recon mission first. Get a lay of things to see what he is up to.

I was surprised that he was so calm about letting me take the lead of things. But I smile and nod at him as we head into the hold. His bike was on and not a scratch on it this time thankfully. The last time that happened, he nearly killed the guy who left the scratch on it. Took everything in me to hold him back from trying to kill the guy. It was the last time he ever touched Shadow's bike too. I watch as Shadow walks over to where some of the gun crates were and takes a look at the innovatory making sure everything was suited and well kept. It was another passion of his. Guns. He knew how to use them and bring out their full potential, even more than most would. It would amaze me at times when he uses them, on how deadly accurate he could be with them. It would be at this time like this I'm glad he was on our side.

ALRIGHT! WE HAVE THIRTY MINUTES BEFORE WE TAKE OFF! EVERYONE LOAD UP NOW!

I heard someone shouting out. I looked at where the hangar doors were opened and I wandered for a moment on whether or not I should call Sonic and let him know about Shadow. I know he and Blue don't get along all that well, and I know deep down Shadow thinks of him as a friend. But I also know, if I did that it would piss him off, which would be fun to see his reaction, but I also know that deep down he would be grateful about it as well. As I mull this over Shadow shouts out at me.

ROUGE, LET'S GO NOW!

Sighing out I run over to catch up with him and Omega and we finish getting ready to leave.

Sonic P.O.V…

As I'm running, thunder and lightning clash overhead as the rain pours down. The wind picks up and blows around me when I hear Tails over the com-link

Sonic come in, this is Tails over.

I stop in my running as I go to answer him.

Hey, Tails what's up?

Hey, Sonic, I was wondering if you found anything yet on your end?

Nothing no, and I'm starting to worry. He still hasn't fully recovered yet.

Yeah, I know. Listen, I know you're worried about him, but maybe it's time we head back home. The weather's starting to pick up and I got word from Fi that there is a bigger storm on the way.

In a bit, I want to look around some more.

Sonic, I don't think that is a good idea. You could get hurt out here.

Just give me a bit more time, Tails. I know he is out there somewhere.

I wait for his answer and after a bit, I hear a sigh as he finally answers me.

Fine. But PLEASE be careful alright? The storm is getting worse.

I will, I promise little bro. Now head on back to Fiona, I know she must be freaking out right now. Storms have never been her thing. I'm going to go running back over the Red Bridge and head to Freedom HQ and see if maybe he stopped there. If not, I'll stay the night till morning.

Alright, I'll message Gadget to let him know you're on your way.

Naw, don't bother, I'll just drop in unannounced and surprise them. It'll be more fun that way.

If you say so?

I do say so. So catch you later little bro.

See you, Sonic, and be safe.

With that, I end the call and go running back the way I came and pass Tails place. As I passed by, I could see Fiona standing with a blanket around her shoulders, standing in the hanger doorway. I wave at her and she waves back and I could see her go back inside, knowing that after seeing me run past, Tails would be home soon. But as I start to go past his home I hear a scream and at once I stop and look back. Sighing out I turn around and go to meet Fiona. I stop at the hanger doors and call out.

Fiona?! Hey Fi, you alright in here.

S-Sonic?

I walk inside and see her sitting on a step of the stairs holding herself, shaking as the storm goes on. Seeing her like that I walk over to her as water drips down my fur and onto the floor. I place a hand on her at the same moment a round of thunder goes off overhead and she screams out clings to me and hides her face in my chest. Surprised by this for a moment as another clap of thunder goes off, she wraps her arms around me shaking as I come out of it and hold her, petting the top of her head.

Easy Fi, I got you. I'm here. Tails should be back any minute now, you want me to stay with you till he comes home?

P-P-Please...S-Sonic?

Sure, come on let's head up.

She nods in my chest, and I help her upstairs to the loft where we wait for Tails. Luckily I didn't have to wait long. For 45 minutes after I got here, Tails showed up. As he pulls the plan in and closes everything up and calls out.

Hello?!

I looked down at Fiona, who had dozed off in my lap a bit ago and was now sound asleep. I could hear footsteps as he came up.

Tails' P.O.V…

As I pulled the Tornado into the bay, I could see the lights were still on. Wondering what Fiona was still doing up, I come to a stop and hit a few buttons, and close the bay doors up for the night. As the Tornado powers down, I jump out and head up to the loft and call out just to make sure it was her, or someone else. But as I get to the loft I see Sonic on the sofa as he holds a finger to his mouth in a shushing motion. I tilt my head wondering what he meant as he points down in his lap and I walk over quietly and look over the back of the sofa and smile. Laying in his lap was Fiona. My guess was when he came past here, he heard her screaming out and came to check on her, and ended up staying with her till I got home. Smiling, I place a hand on his shoulder and he looks up at me, smiling back as he whispers.

I was running past when she screamed out. I thought it best I stayed with her till you got home. She ended up passing out a few minutes later after we got up here. I didn't have the heart to leave her here alone, should she wake up again and not have you be here when she does.

Thanks, Sonic. That means a lot to me that you did that. I'll go ahead and take her to our room and put her to bed, and be back down in just a few moments.

No, you stay with her, if the storm is going to pick up like you say it is, then she's gonna need you Lil bro.

Are you sure?

Yeah. Besides I need to get back over to South Island before it does and to Freedom HQ. No telling how bad the storm will be. I'll stay there till it passes so if you or any of the others need me you can reach me there.

Alright, thanks again Sonic.

Sure no problem.

With that, I walk around to the front of the sofa and gently pick Fiona up so as to not wake her. Soon as I have her in my arms, Sonic gets up and stretches out and smiles at me, giving me a two-finger salute and before I knew it he was gone in a blue blur. I smile as I watch him go, till Fiona stirs and I hold her close to me and head into the house to put her to bed, and get ready myself for bed.

Sonic's P.O.V…

With Fiona, out of the way, I ran out of the hanger, and down the way and to Emerald Coast and the Red Gate Bridge. It takes me about an hour to cross it due to the weather picking up just like Tails' said it would. But I made it across and managed to get to Freedom HQ at around 10 pm. As I stopped in Sunset Heights where the HQ is located I could see how much has changed with the city. I didn't stop to look around and headed right for the HQ. Once there I'm greeted by a couple of guards with Wispon's who stop me.

Hold it right there. Who are you, and what business do you have with the Freedom HQ.

A gruff-looking Bulldog asks me as he holds his Wispon at me. I hold my hands up showing I was of no threat.

Easy buddy. I'm only here to see some old friends of mine, nothing more. So if you could just let me pass…

How do I know you're not here to cause trouble, you blue rat?

Listen, I'm not here to cause any trouble, I promise, and I'm a hedgehog thank you very much.

Really? What about that other hedgehog that was here hours ago? That silver-colored one?

The other guard spoke telling me what happened.

Do you mean Silver? I know him, he's a close friend of mine.

HA! knew it. Once a trouble maker, ALWAYS a trouble maker. Isn't that right Johnny?

Indeed, Bulk. Now we are going to ask you only once more to please state your business here, you blue rat.

Listen...Johnny was it? As I said I'm only here to see Zero and Gadget my friends. I need to talk to them about something, and again I'm a HEDGEHOG, not a rat.

Well, whatever it is you can tell us.

Bulk, tells me. At this point, I was getting annoyed.

Listen Bulk. I'm tired. I'm wet, and I'm starting to get annoyed right now. I've been running for who knows how long and all I wish to do is get inside where it is warm and dry and speak with Gadget and Zero. Is that too much to ask for?

Well, let me tell you something, you BLUE RAT...

Bulk starts.

We've been standing out here in the rain ever since it started, and were taking it like true men mind you. Isn't that right, Johnny?

That's right, Bulk.

Oh brother, you one of THEM morons.

I say as I rub my temples shaking my head, and sign out.

Excuse me?

You heard me.

I say with a fold of my arms.

You're one of those people who think they're better than the rest. Well, let me tell you something here. I bet not one of you has even been on the battlefield, have you? I bet you think that everything is handed to you at your beck and call? Why I even bet you think your top dog around here, being the HQ BULLIES, telling everyone what they do, right? Not only that do you know who I am?!

Yeah, that's right. Every word of it. Isn't that right Johnny, and besides we could care less about who you are.

Yep, every word. We get to tell other's what to do when there to do it, and we gain a lot of respect for it as well, so much so that everyone loves helping us and doing things for us. Isn't that right Bulk?

True is that, Johnny. True is that. Why even Zero and Gadget hold us in high regard mind you. So much so they gave us this Guarding job. Right, Johnny?

Yes, that they did Bulk.

Pray tell, how is THAT going for you right now? Standing in the rain like this, as a Hurricane comes our way?

I stand there with a fold of my arms and a raised eyebrow as I tap my foot in the mud.

Quite well...wait? A H-H-HURRICANE?!

Johnny stammers at me in shock.

Yes, a Hurricane. You know? Big nasty storm? Winds up to a hundred plus. Floods, and more. THAT hurricane? The very one I BEEN running in for the last couple of HOURS mind you and the full of it is about to hit. So why not let me inside before it does, and MAYBE I'll tell Gadget and Zero how you've been good little guards and have them let you come inside where it's safe.

Oh please, this is nothing more than a little tropical storm. It'll blow over in two days.

Y-yeah..but….Bulk. What if this guy is right? M-M-Maybe we should let him in after all, right? I mean if it IS a Hurricane then shouldn't we HELP him instead of keeping him out?

Listen, Johnny. He is only trying to scare you nothing more.

R-Really?

Yes, really. Now stop acting like a fool already, and as for you, you blue rat…

Hedgehog.

Right, you blue rat. I'm gonna tell you for the last time, to leave Freedom HQ and go home. Cause we ain't buying or falling for your shit. Not get going.

Listen I'm not going anywhere till I get in there. Besides, IT'S TOO DANGEROUS TO BE RUNNING BACK TO THE MAINLAND IN THIS WEATHER! I BARELY MADE IT ACROSS THE RED GATE BRIDGE AS IS COMING HERE! NOW LET ME THROUGH AT ONCE! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA ON WHO I AM YOU, MORONS!?

We don't care who you are so leave now! JOHNNY GET THE WISPON'S AND LET'S TAKE THIS GUY DOWN!

Right!

Growling out annoyed and pissed. I go and get ready for a fight, normally I wouldn't do such a thing, but these two were just ASKING for it. I can't believe they didn't know who I was. I thought everyone knew who I was but I guess I was wrong. I see them loading up their Wispon's up the Ivory wisps and I knew between the rain and them I was going to get the shock of a lifetime if I wasn't careful. Growling out, I see them aim at me and I get ready, the one named Johnny shoots first but I managed to jump out of the way, but since I was watching him, I spaced out on Bulk who took the chance and shot off his Wispon and managed to hit me from behind and give me a moderate shock. It hurt but I think he was only giving me a warning shot, for now. I growl out as I look behind me and stand up.

Is that all you got? I barely even felt that.

He he he… You just wait you blue RAT, there is more where that came from. That was just a little warning shot, nothing more. But now if I go and turn it up some of the ways….

I watch as he turns the dial on his Wispon and at once I could hear the cries of the wisp he was using. Growling out I hold my ground as I hear another cry as Johnny does the same thing.

STOP IT! YOU'RE HURTING THE WISPS! IF YOU KEEP TURNING THE DIAL UP YOU'RE GOING TO...AAAAAH!

I was hit out of nowhere by the both of them at once, and let me tell you, having them Wispon's up to where they were at and used on me at once, well… it was no picnic in the park. I could feel about two hundred volts of electricity running through me as the whips from the Wispon's were wrapped around me. I hold my own not once backing down as I start to take a step, but the moment I do they turn up the dial once more, and again I could hear the cries of the Wisps in there. Begging them to stop. They were hurting them, and me. I could care less about me, but the Wisps were another story. Thunder and lightning crash over my head as I try to think of something. I knew if I didn't do something fast, it would be game over for the little guys.

So jumping into the air, and taking Bulk and Johnny off guard, I managed to break free and I curl up into a ball and ram both of them, knocking them to the muddy ground. As I land they start to get up and reach for their Wispon's once more. I run over to stop them but I wasn't fast enough and they get a hold of them. Johnny attacks me first as he shoots off the Wispon first and I managed to dodge out of the way, but sadly Bulk got me once again, as I feel the full force of the Electric Wisp full power hit the back of me, sending seven hundred volts threw me. For most anyone, that would more than like kill them, but I'm not most people.

As I feel the whips hitting me over and over again, I roll over in the mud and jump up and onto my feet, just as Johnny attacks me again, the Wispon's whip wrapping around me and sending another seven hundred volts through me. I scream out in pain as I fall to my knees in the mud, just as Bulk hits me again, as his Wispon whip wraps around me sending another seven hundred dose of electricity through me making it and Johnny's together, a full one-thousand and four hundred volts going right through me. They kept their hold on me till I could feel it taking its toll on me. Grunting out and trying to fight back, and hearing the screams of the Wisps I knew I had to act fast. If they ended up turning that dial all the way up it would be game over for me and the Wisps.

Growling out, I tried to move, but the shock was too much, and with the rain falling it felt like three times as much power running through me.

Would you look at that Johnny, the blue rat is ours now. Wait till I tell Zero and Gadget we caught a rat trying to break into the HQ. I bet we will get promotions after this.

Yeah, I bet, Bulk.

You...two...are worse...than my best...friend...Knuckles….you know...that? You think...this is...gonna stop me...think again….because it won't… for...I'm...Sonic….The...Hedgehog...and nothing...can...AAAAAAAAH!

I scream out once more as I feel the power being turned up once again, at the same time I could hear the painful screams of the Wisps in their containers as their power was being drained. Over the rain falling, the lightning crashing, the screams of me and the Wisps I could hear the dial clicking as it slowly turned up to the max. These fools didn't know who they were dealing with and I wasn't going to give in so easily… I couldn't give in so easily. Not with the Wisps in danger. Grunting out I tried to get up, but I was only met with the full force of the Wisps who were being killed right now. I couldn't hear their cries for help anymore and I feared the worst for them. I couldn't let them keep doing this. Man, was I ever regretting not staying at Tails' place when he and Fiona asked me, or better yet just waited at home and then they wouldn't be in this mess, and they wouldn't be getting killed by a couple of morons who didn't know how to use them right.

I'm...sorry...you guys….this is my...fault…

What was that you blue rat?

The….wisps...it's my fault...their….being killed...by you….morons...I'm….sorry….

Awe look at that Johnny. The blue rat feels sorry for a tool that has no affection, or feelings of any kind. Isn't that right cute?

He he he he… it's downright ADORABLE it is. How about we finish this once and for all, Bulk?

You've read my mind, Johnny…

No...don't...you do and...AAAAAAAGH!

They turn up their Wispon's to the max now as both together, send a total of twenty-thousand volts right through me. Enough to finish me off for good. As I started to black out I could hear someone yelling out.

THAT'S ENOUGH THE BOTH OF YOU! STOP RIGHT NOW BEFORE YOUR KILL HIM!

Knuckles P.O.V…

I yell out at the two who had Sonic pinned down and were all by KILLING him. I just happened to be at the Freedom HQ that day to help get ready for the oncoming Hurricane. We've been at it all day preparing for it. As I was finishing up looking over a few things, Lot came running to me saying Sonic was here and that he was in trouble, and I could only guess that it was those two buffoons Bulk and Johnny at it again. It also made me wonder why Sonic just didn't push past them and walk right in? Without another thought, I thrust the clipboard I had on hand at someone and went running down to the gates. As I do I'm met by Zero and Gadget who also got wind of things. As we got there we could see Sonic in real trouble.

THAT'S ENOUGH THE BOTH OF YOU! STOP RIGHT NOW BEFORE YOU KILL HIM!

I run ahead of Zero and Gadget and as Bulk and Johnny turn around, I deck them hard enough to send them flying back. Their Wispon's go flying out of their hands and land in the mud. Zero and Gadget come running over to us and grab a hold of them before Bulk and Johnny could recover and turn the power off on them. As I landed I ran to Sonic and managed to catch him before he ended up hitting the mud face first. I rip the whips off him and throw them to the ground as I hold Sonic in my arms, placing my hand on his back.

Easy there, Sonic. I got you.

It's...about...time...Knuckle...head…

It was the only thing he said before he fully blacked out on me. I looked him over and I could see burn marks on him from the Wispon whips. They looked bad. I looked over to Zero and Gadget as I saw them taking out the Wisps.

How are the Wisps?!

I-I think they're alright, but they're out cold, just like Sonic. The poor things.

Growling out, I could see Zero walking over to Bulk and Johnny and he didn't look too happy.

Zero's P.O.V…

As I walked over to the two who not only hurt Sonic but the Wisps as well, I wanted to do more than beat them to a pulp. I wanted to kill both of them. I knew I should have gotten rid of them when everyone was complaining about them. As I stand over them, lightning goes off behind me, making me look scarier than normal. Enough so that both Bulk and Johnny cling to one another as I stand there looking down at them with a folded hand on my hip as my hair blows about.

Mind telling me what you two were doing to our friend over there, and you best make it good.

Z-Z-Zero...S-Sir….we….were only….doing our….j-j-job...isn't that right….Johnny?

Y-yeah….

Oh really? Your "JOB"., and is your "JOB" killing all who come here and hurting our Wisps?

S-sir...h-h-he tried resisting….us...and...and…

ENOUGH! I SHOULD HAVE THROWN YOU BOTH OUT THE FIRST CHANCE I GOT WHEN THE COMPLAINT'S STARTED COMING IN! YOUR NOT SOLDIER'S! YOU NOTHING BUT BILLIES! ALL YOU BOTH DO IS HARASS EVERYONE HERE AT THE HQ! NOT TO SAY ONE OF THE GIRLS FINALLY BECAME BRAVE ENOUGH TO TELL US HOW YOU'VE BEEN SEXUALLY HARASSING A LOT OF THEM, AND HOW YOU EVEN FORCED YOURSELVES ON THEM, ONE OF THEM BEING MY BELOVED DESERT ROSE, AND THAT'S THE LAST STRAW RIGHT THERE! I HAD HOPED BY PUTTING YOU AS GUARDS YOU WOULD LEARN, BUT INSTEAD YOU NEARLY KILLED THE WISPS I'VE ENTRUSTED YOU WITH, AND HOW DID YOU DO THAT? BY NEARLY KILLING MOBIUS' HERO, AND FRIEND TO KNUCKLES AND THE REST OF US!

I hold up my hand and call forth my cubes. Even though I no longer had the Phantom Ruby, or it has its hold over me, it did leave me with a lot of its powers behind which I use today for the greater good. As I hold my cubes, they start to take form and shift into my blade. I take hold of the hilt ready to do the very same thing they did to Sonic. Growling out, I look down at them with pure dark malice. Letting my former self show.

Gadget's P.O.V…

As I checked over the two Wisps to make sure they were still alive, I managed to look up and over at Knuckles. He was checking Sonic over making sure he was fine. It looked like those two morons did a number on him and he looked like he was in really bad shape. But why was he here to start with? Why come all this way out in this weather? Didn't he know there was a hurricane coming in right now? As I was asking all these questions I looked up when I heard Zero yelling out at the two who hurt Sonic and the Wisps. I gasp out as I see Zero forming his sword, and the look on his face and more said it all. He was PISSED. I see him raise his sword as I yell out to him.

ZERO DON'T!

I could see him stopping mid-swing as Knuckles looked over to what was going on. A couple of people come running over with a gurney and he places Sonic on it and tells them to take him and the Wisps to the medical bay. As one of them comes over to take the Wisps I walk over to Zero, as does Knuckles. I place a hand on his shoulder and he looks at me. I was taken back by his look but I smiled gently at him and shook my head.

Don't do it Ze. They're not worth it.

Gadget is right Zero. Right now we need to get inside and help Sonic and the Wisps. Normally I'm laid back as you know, but for now, I say leave them right out the storm someplace else. FAR away from everyone here. Right now we have an HQ to get back under control, and a lot of people and Wisps to help inside. Those two did a number on a lot of people. Some of which are the women and younger girls. One of which being HER. So if anything, do it for her alright?

Zero's P.O.V…

I look at both of them, one being my best friend, the other being the senior of the Freedom HQ, and my mentor in helping me become someone new and helping me with my past, and I guess another best friend. Knuckle's words hit a soft spot for me. So sighing out I lower my blade and let it disperse. The two in front of me let out a sigh of relief.

Your right Knuckles. Gadget. They're not worth it at all, and right now Felicia needs me. Where is she, Gadget?

Being checked out by the doctors now.

Very well then. Leave these two and let's head back in. There not to enter the HQ. If they set foot in there ever again, I'll kill the both of them. This I promise the both of you. I Will alert the authorities in a few days and let them know what happened and see if any of the women wish to press charges, for now, we need to make sure Sonic and the Wisps are alright. Now let's go.

With that, I turn around and walk off back inside as Knuckles and Gadget follow me. As we enter the HQ we head right for the medical bay to see how Sonic and the others are doing. Those two assholes did a number on some people. I wish I had known sooner of their crimes I would have taken faster action with them both. As we enter the medical room, a soft cream-colored Jackal female comes running over to me and wraps her arms around me. At once I wrap my arms around her and gently pet her head, shushing her. She was shaking like a leaf scared to death as her sobs could be heard as she buried her face in my chest...

Easy now my little Desert Rose. Easy. They're gone. I promise they will never set foot in here again.

Knuckles and Gadget look at me and I nod. They nod back as I guide Felicia away to give us some time together.

Knuckles P.O.V…

As I stand there watching both Zero and Felicia walk off, I catch Gadget walking over to where Sonic and the Wisps were. I walked over and I could see that the doctors were putting burn cream on Sonic and wrapping him up in bandages. The Wisps were close by in a special chamber made for them to help try and heal them. Gadget stands over their chamber and looks down at them.

T-t-they will be alright, won't the Knuckles?

I place a hand on his shoulder giving it a gentle squeeze.

I'm sure they will do just fine, Gadget. They were only out cold. Luckily we got there in time before those morons did anything more to them. Right now the one I'm worried about is Sonic. He took a full twenty-thousand-volt shock from those little guys. Why I wouldn't be surprised if he blames himself for their pain. It would be so like him.

If you ask me, I bet you anything that the Wisp are blaming themselves for it all.

Wouldn't surprise me.

Hey, how is Sonic anyway Doc?

A female Tiger looks up at me and smiles.

He's doing fine, but these burn marks are bad. But lucky with this new burn ointment I developed, he should be good as new in about a few weeks. But he will have to rest till then and stay in bed. I think by the time this Hurricane blows over he should be good as new.

That's great news, Amanda. What of the Wisps?

They will be fine in a day or two. So long as they stay in their chamber. I must say, I'm really impressed with this new species of Elite Wisps. No normal Wisp would withstand that amount of abuse on them. But these two. Well, I'm quite impressed.

That makes two of us.

Well, he's all bandaged up. If you like you can sit with him Knuckles, and you can stay with the Wisps if you like Gadget. Just be quiet.

With that we watch her walk off and I go to sit with Sonic for a bit why Gadget sits with the Wisps. Sighing out I look down at Sonic shaking my head.

You moron, why didn't you fight back? You could have taken them.

I say softly as I hear him groan out as he slowly wakes up.

Be...cause….I didn't want to….hurt them...even if they were...being jerks…

Even still, Sonic. You could have taken them with no problem.

How….are...they?

The Wisps? They're going to be fine.

It's...my fault there in that state.

If it's anyone's fault it's mine.

We look up and we see Zero walking over to us and over to the Wisp chamber. He places a hand on it and sighs out letting his ears fall back.

If it was anyone's fault it's mine. I entrusted those two morons with them, and they used and abused them both. Nearly killing both of them and YOU Sonic, and for that, I'm so sorry. Had I done something about those two sooner then none of this would have happened. I do hope you can forgive me for not acting sooner. I promise you, it's a mistake I will never make again, and I do hope you can forgive me for it. I hope THEY can forgive me for it. I never meant to put them in harm's hands like that.

Hey, it's not your fault Zero. It's a mistake anyone could have made. Not just you.

I go and tell him, smiling.

He's...right Zero. So we cool… but for now… I think… I just want to rest for….a bit.

But of course, Sonic. All three of you need your rest now. I'll have a room done up for your stay here and will talk later when you're up for it. Right now, I'm waiting on Amanda to finish with Felicia so I can take her to her room.

I-is she going to be alright, Zero?

I think so, Gadget, but I have a feeling those two did some real harm to her.

You don't think that she could be…

I pray not Knuckles. I pray not. Or if she is, I pray the child is mine and not one of them filthy bastards. For now, let's let them rest. Sonic, it's good to see you again. I just...I just wish it was under better conditions.

Same.

Zero?

We look over to see Amanda calling out to Zero. With a nod, he walks off as I look back at Sonic.

So blue, what are you doing here?

I came to find Shadow.

Shadow?

Yeah. He hasn't come home yet and I'm a bit worried.

Why would he be at your place?

He's hurt and still recovering.

What happened?

Eggman is what happened. Oooooh...Could we finish this talk later? I wanna rest now.

Sure thing, Sonic. Come on Gadget let's let him and the Wisps rest for now.

Alright.

Gadget gets up and walks off as I look at Sonic smiling patting his leg.

Rest well, Sonic, and I'll see you later.

Yeah.

As I get up and start to walk off I hear Felicia cry out as if she was in pain. I turn around as Gadget comes running back over to me and we watch should we need to step in my fist at the ready. Zero was holding onto her tightly as she buried her face into his chest. He rested her chin on top of her head and I could see a single tear fall from his closed eyes. Amanda says something to him and he nods as his ears fall back. She gets up and walks over to us and places a hand on mine and shakes her head sadly.

Amanda?

She's pregnant, but the worst of it is, I have NO idea who it could be. Whether it's Zeros or one of them bastards child, and I WON'T know till I can see the fetus at twenty-four weeks. But for now, let's go and let them be. This is a medical ward after all, NOT the rec room. Now come.

With that, we take our leave letting Sonic and the Wisps rest and give Zero time with Felicia. On our way out I give Sonic one last look and he looks at me worried but nods. I nod back and we exit the room.