AN: Okay, so there's a couple important things to clarify, I'll do one here and the other at the end of the chapter, you'll see why.
First important thing is that throughout this story there have been many songs "played", and as is clear they all exist in the world of the story and are heard by the characters. This is known as diegetic music. While that will remain the primary form of music in the story, I want to experiment with non-diegetic music; not to replace or even rival the diegetic, as in most situations I prefer diegetic due to how it can integrate into the story, but there are times where I feel non-diegetic has a role to play. It will be pretty clear which song in this chapter is the non-diegetic one due to the fact no characters react to it at any point.
Now, onto the Chapter 20, a milestone on it's own I say.
Rouge and Shadow sit at the table, distant from the Confederated Council.
"If death from boredom is a thing, I'm in critical danger of it."
Shadow turns to face her.
"I'm sorry. I didn't want to bring you here, to be honest. I knew you'd hate it; but I need you to be here. Just for now."
Just like when he asked her to come with him to the Septcentennial, his words ring with an earnestness of desire for her company. She decides to agree but in a way that won't make him feel worse for it.
"Oh, don't worry about me handsome, just venting. You know me."
He smiles and nods.
"Yea, you're pretty good."
She is somewhat confused by the statement.
"Pretty good?"
He raises a finger to his mouth to signify to be quiet and turns his head to face the table where the eight are sitting.
"-and perhaps we should begin supporting King Robert?"
Bullyani gives an exasperated gasp.
"Are you out of your mind? Supporting them during my election year? Are you trying to ensure I lose?"
Bardomiano gives a soft sigh.
"As much as I disagree with his reasons for why, he's right. Supporting an unpopular monarchy in a civil war against its own people will not go over well at all with our own citizens. It will be seen as hypocritical by the public and possibly even a portent for us trying to rollback on the civil liberties the Federation's citizens have enjoyed for centuries."
Trinity nods.
"I don't want to give the republicans any excuse to march down south. Let that damn fox and hedgehog kill each other for all I care."
"I also agree. Even as a principality, Soleanna's monarchy only exists because the people support it fully; I cannot give my backing to aiding Mercia's own, which does not enjoy such support, in good faith."
Zhen places a hand on his forehead.
"Neutrality just seems like it'll make sure whichever side wins will definitely not like us. We can't afford to have angry nations in our midst while we face threats from the east. If the O'Hedge dynasty is a losing bet, then why not go for Noël and the MLA?"
Haynes shakes his head.
"No way I'm supporting that. Acorn is our oldest and strongest ally and pretty much the only reliable one we have. Supporting the MLA is definitely not going to go over well with Maximilian and we can't afford to lose them. They're key in maintaining peace in the Alexandris Ocean and the Central Sea; without that, Station Square will not have a reliable sea lane to the rest of the Federation and all of our trade and shipping will suffer both from the instability in addition to losing a valuable trading partner. Eurish will be cut off from Northamer and Soumerca unless we decide to force it back open, which means war, which is not what we want. Not to mention, it will also distract them from keeping the pressure on Robotnik's remnants in the far west of Northamer. Last thing we want is for him to get a resurgence."
The room as a whole murmurs in agreement as they look to the President.
"All in favor of maintaining our current stance of strict neutrality?"
The entire room, save for Zhen, raises their hands.
"The motion passes, six to one. Next matter, Executive Trinit-"
The door opens and Tower walks into the room.
"Ah, Commander Tower, so good to have you here."
Tower gives a respectful nod to the President.
"Of course. Sorry for being late."
"That's alright, Commander."
The Overlander goes to sit in a chair and begins interacting with the tablet in front of him. The President speaks up once more.
"Well, with Commander Tower here, I believe it would prudent to instead discuss Magistrate Zhen's proposal to have G.U.N. begin providing substantial military aid to Generalissimo Khan's National Protection Army against the Iron Dominion."
"Alright. One more thing annnnndd done!"
The Robian hedgehog leans back and taps on a button.
"There, the nanites should be bound to your neural circuitry like they used to be. Try it now."
The holographic lynx gives a nod and a smile to the Robian.
"Sir Charles, before I do it, I want to say one thing."
The Robian returns the smile at the hologram on the desk before him.
"You don't have to say it, Nicole; I know."
She shakes her head.
"No, I do. Thank you, Sir Charles. I would say 'you have no idea how much this means', but the truth is you do. Better than anyone else I know. Thank you for giving me this back and I promise I'll make it worth it your time, you won't regret this!"
"My dear, you don't have to prove anything to anyone, your happiness should not, and is not, contingent on proving your worth to anyone, and I would never regret helping you, and it's already worth my time; you're happy, and that's all I want."
The lynx places a hand on the left side of her chest, where her heart would be if she had one, or any organs at all.
"Thank you, for being you."
She shuts her eyes and then her image disappears. The Robian swivels in his chair to turn to a container. From it arises the lynx, now the size of a normal person.
One person helped, only a world's worth left to go
He stands up with a determination in his chest.
And I will, every single one. Even if I discover a way to reverse this tomorrow, today even, I won't do it to myself, not until every single Robian is also given the chance to do the same!
He walks up to the lynx as she steps out of the container.
"How does it feel to be among the land of the feeling once again?"
She looks to her hands, her feet, she feels the desks, the apparatuses on them, her own body.
"It's just as amazing as I remembered it was; even if it isn't complete."
She looks up at Charles and jumps forward to embrace him a hug.
"Thank you."
Charles simply rubs her back with one hand.
I'm glad I could help you
The cat and mongoose enter into the room. In it, they see a bear eating.
"Hey, Eadwig."
At the mongoose's words, he drops his sandwich onto the plate, stands up, and turns around.
"Ah, Fräulein Mongoose, so gut to see you. Did you enjoy mein performance?"
She nods.
"That we did, Eadwig. Mind telling us who the special girl is?"
He shakes a finger.
"Ah, Fräulein Mongoose, don't you know? Ein Gentleman doesn't küsst und tell."
He turns to face Hershey.
"And speaking of schöne Damen, grüß Gott to you, meine Dame."
He gives a slight bow to her which she is not expecting. However, her surprise is completely disguised due to her experience.
"Oh, thank you very much. You're honestly too kind."
He gives her a nod but returns to speaking with Mina as she begins talking again.
"Hey, have you seen Birch? I was looking but couldn't find her."
"Ah, Fräulein Samara is nicht hier; she departed for Zentral City the day before yesterday. She's already there and will be performing tonight, over there of course, I believe."
"Damn, that sucks. Well, I'll get her another time. Anyways, I didn't just come here to catch up with ya, my friend here,"
She hooks an arm around the cat.
"Said she really loved your song and wanted to ask you something."
Eadwig turns to face Hershey once more.
"Ist das treu?"
She nods.
"Yea. I felt such emotion, such passion, when you played, but it was like it was refined, sharpened to a smooth edge."
He smiles with pride.
"Well, I suppose you should sitze down, it's not a short story."
Miles walks around the camp and sees that hedgehog walking with his several soldiers with exceptional equipment and camouflaged uniforms; a stark contrast to the standard horizon blue outfits of the rank and file or the dark blue and white uniforms of officers.
"Hey, Beric."
At his words, they all turn to look at him. A muntjac regards him with a bright smile.
"Behold, 'tis Marcel! How art thee, enfant?"
Miles' confusion is apparent.
"What?"
Beric walks up to him.
"Fitzgerald is is simply asking how art thee, childe."
"Oh, well, I'm pretty good. Thanks for asking."
The muntjac gives a nod to him and the rest of the commandos continue on their way, leaving Beric and Miles alone. The fox turns to face the hedgehog.
"Marcel?"
"A nickname some of the South'rn'rs has't f'r thee."
"Why Marcel?"
"It means 'Little Warri'r'."
Miles groans.
"Even after all this time, still can't get people to stop calling me little..."
Beric hooks his arm around Miles.
"Oh relaxe, childe. 'Tis simply those folk showing their endearment."
Miles feels a faint wet spot on his chest, right where Beric's hand is, but decides to ignore it.
"Beric, is it true that General Emery is your brother?"
The hedgehog doesn't make a single movement. An air of silence persists until a sigh comes from him.
"Aye."
"Why didn't you tell me?"
His tone of voice makes it clear that he isn't hurt or angry, just curious.
"Doth thee mind if we sitte down? Wast rath'r a longe night, and anon day, f'r me."
Miles nods and the two break apart as they head for a pair of chairs. Miles trails behind Beric and wipes the part of his chest and looks at the palm of his glove; a red stain is apparent on it.
Blood
He isn't sure what to think about it and simply hides it as he sits across from with Beric.
"The truth is that I truly holde nay bond or love f'r him or any of mine own family. I wouldst saye they're dead to me, but I has't yet to see to that. I wast also afraid it wouldst proveth too off-putting to thee."
"But you told that if a time came where the people ask it, you would kill them without a second thought. That doesn't seem 'off-putting' to you?"
"Well, it may not beest logical, but I feele that declaring thee wouldst doth something to a group of unknown people is much diff'rent from declaring thee shall doth something to a specific p'rson."
"I guess so."
"But aye, Thomas Em'ry is mine own genetic kin."
"So your real name i-"
"Nay, it wast simply a name assign'd to me at birth. Thomas Em'ry, the one bef're sitting thee, died longe ago; I, Thomas Beric, hath killed him. He wast an evil man, living an evil life in an evil station with evil luxuries. But he hadst a piece of good in him, that is all that remains in front of thee now."
"Why were you both named Thomas? Pretty lazy, I say, plus seems like it would be rather confusing."
"Because we were twins."
"Huh? But you guys have different fur and eye colours."
Beric nods.
"Aye, that we doth. I bethink it bodes some cosmic f'reshadowing. He wast given a stark and special charcoal coat and shimm'ring em'ralds f'r eyes, while I wast given plain brown f'r mine own f'rm and mine own eyes. He represents privilege, haughtiness, nobility, I represente plainness, humbleness, commonalty. I supposeth we w're at always destin'd to cometh on eith'r side of this whole thing."
"Why 'Beric'?"
"I lived in a most wondrous estate, many people toil'd on it. I wast always fascinat'd by it, by those folk, by their strength, their p'rsev'rance, their kindness."
"They were nice to you?"
"Well, aye, but that's not what I wast ref'rring to. I mean, thee has't hundreds of labour'rs, all with tools and who couldst easily maketh weapons, meanwhile the people lording ov'r those folk didn't even numb'r thirty. Yet, day in and day out, night aft'r night, week aft'r week, year aft'r year, those gents didst nothing."
Beric leans back.
"Those gents couldst've v'ry easily snuck into the house, or hath broken in, and slaught'r'd us all, and they has't been right to doth so. But they didn't. The common people art kind, gentle, loving, and honest. I reside, and liveth, amongst the common people, but I am not of them. I am a refugee from the upp'r class; I am nobility. I has't in me the cruelty, the savag'ry, the brutality, that common people lack, and I shall useth it f'r them 'gainst those who is't instill'd it me."
"Ok, but why Beric?"
"Well, the night I left ev'rything, I did sneak out to the crop fields and gath'r'd as many of them as I couldst to heade off with me. Most cameth. As we near'd the f'rest, I tooke one laste look at mine own home; the one thing about it that didn't maketh me sick wast that farm; its golden fields of grain shining beautifully in the moonlight. B'ric means 'grain farm'. I supposeth I nev'r couldst fully leaveth mine own home behind, nay matt'r how much I wanteth to; so, I hath chosen the one thing I still love about it."
Miles simply takes it all in.
"Who else knows about this? Besides Edouard."
Beric gives a look.
"Wherefore wouldst Edouard knowe about this?"
Miles gives a smirk.
"C'mon Beric, I'm a genius scientist who can make a scrap pile into a weapon. You think I can't notice you two? Just be happy that I'm good at keeping a secret."
So many of them will go with me, but not all of them; I wish it was, but I couldn't hold them in any longer
"Thou art a real scoundrel, thee knowe that?"
"I was taught by some of the best."
Memories of his friends, his family, flash through his mind.
Thank you for giving me happy memories; I'll hold them with me to the end
"Speaking of that, where is he?"
"I supposeth we shouldst starte looking."
"I can't believe you guys are going sing while we're about to be attacked."
"A positive attitude can do wonders."
"There's positive and then there's this."
"I thought you'd appreciate such enthusiasm, Your Royal Highness."
The sounds of humming fill the bridge.
Now Playing: "Eurish Ladies"
(Inspired By "Spanish Ladies")
Farewell and adieu to you, Eurish ladies,
Farewell and adieu to you, Mercian Dames;
For we've received orders
For to sail to Oak Acorn,
But we hope in a short time to see you again!
Well, at least this one isn't so crude or violent
We'll rant and we'll roar, like true Acorn aviators,
We'll rant and we'll roar across the stormy breeze;
Until we make landings
In the heart of Oak Acorn,
From Snottingham to Dogham, 'tis around a thous-!
A great sound is heard and a vibration accompanies it, bringing the singing to an abrupt stop.
"The ship is being hit!"
Grey simply nods at her.
"Captain, visuals have picked up something. An artillery battery, three o'clock."
The images splay across the computer screen and Sally nods.
"Yup, that's definitely him."
"Are you sure? Those pieces seem to possess serious firepower. I think the only power this side of the Mobissippi that could build and field them would be Robotnik."
"They're work partners."
Grey gives a nod.
"Ah, I see. It all seems to make sense. He must truly want you; whether dead or alive is hard to say, though if I had to choose, I'd wager alive. First the Armada and now this individual?"
"Yea."
"Who is it, if I may inquire?"
The rabbit looks through the binoculars at the airship high in the sky and far in the distance.
"That's got 'em! Keep it up!"
He smiles as he sees the various shells and lasers fly toward the airship.
"They won't last long at this rate."
The wind blows harsh and continues to kick up sand and dust all around them.
"Ah, I see."
"Onto more important matters, Captain; can we beat them back?"
"I do not mean to blame you, Your Royal Highness, but we left much earlier than we were prepared. Repairs were not finished, several guns remain inoperable, and we're just not at full effectiveness."
"So that's a no?"
"Yes, sadly. I hope you will be cooperative in evacuating this time."
She shakes her head.
"No point. This isn't like over the Great Mobocean. We're on land and they've got a good spot on us. They'll be able to follow us in a way the Battle Birds couldn't."
Grey rubs his chin.
"I suppose you have a point. But surely some chance is better than no chance?"
"I have an idea."
"And what is that?
The hedgehog and red echidna sit in a room, evening Sun shines through the glass windows, illuminating both them as well as the Echixeter skyline before and beyond them.
"Sure is a fancy city."
"Yup. Hopefully we can prevent conflict coming to it, or any other place."
"You said it, Knux."
The two of them turn to face the cybernetic floating head, still speaking to what would seem like himself, though they both know he isn't.
"-and the rehabilitation center hit its quota? I see. That is good. Yes, everything is well here. Thank you for concern as well as your exceptional performance. You do the Legion proud. Yes, I will tell him. Goodbye, great-great-granddaughter."
A brief pause occurs and then he begins laughing a prerecorded laugh.
"My apologies, I didn't realise you hated him that much. Yes, I'll be sure to not do that again. Goodbye great-granddaughter."
"Who was that?"
At Sonic's words, he turns around to face the two of them.
"Lien-Da."
"Ah, ol' Fritz von leather suit. Definitely a temperamental one."
"I would suggest you not call her that when she can hear."
"Case in point."
The two echidnae shake their heads while Knuckles walks up to Dimitri.
"Well, I'm just glad that she isn't causing a ruckus."
"Yes, she proved somewhat difficult to put in line but she was put in all the same. I doubt she truly agrees with this shift, but I think she understands how incapable of resisting me she is. I also don't think she'd be willing to alienate herself from the Legion."
"Well, that's good to hear."
"Your Royal Highness, that plan is madness!"
"It's a bit out there, I won't deny that; but it can work."
"I will not-"
"Captain."
Her words cause him to stop.
"Do you trust me?"
Grey's face lights up with a mixture of incredulity and agreement. As much as his caution and prudence shout at him to say no, to stop this risky plan, he cannot deny that the princess has shown herself to be most capable, without even mentioning her years fighting many a threat before she ever set foot on the Enduring. He mentally curses himself for his answer.
You damn red fool...
"Yes..."
"Good. Now, send out a signal to him."
The fox and hedgehog enter into a tent and see the jackal leaning over a table while conversing with a chipmunk.
"Oh, aren't vous such a dame intéressante?"
She gives a playful wave of her hand.
"Oh, vous are such a suave one!"
"Well I-"
"Berrien."
The hedgehog's words draw the attention of both of them and the jackal quickly stands up.
"Ah, Prower, Thomas, so good to see vous both."
He nervously rubs the back of his head and walks over to the two.
"Perhaps we should go for a walk."
Miles gives an expression that is a mixture of anticipation and confusion as the three walk outside, leaving the chipmunk alone.
"I think you're in for it now..."
Edouard looks down with slight confusion.
"How-"
He never finishes his question due to Beric's interruption
"Berrien, what didst I saye about this?"
"I was just parlant with elle, that's all."
The hedgehog gives an amused shake of his head.
"I gage, thee cannot help yourself."
"Perhaps we shouldn't-"
"Doth not w'rry, Prower already knoweth."
The jackal turns to face him and Miles nods.
"Why are you guys not open about it? Afraid that people may not agree?"
"Why of co-"
The jackal's words come to a halt as the hedgehog grips his ear.
"Ah!"
"Doth not lie to the childe."
Beric, maintaining his grip on Edouard's ear and turns to face Miles.
"The truth of the matt'r is that this licentious foole wouldst pref'r f'r ev'ryone to bethink that he is not spoken f'r."
"'Parlé pour' est such a forte phras- ah!"
"Silence."
"Do vous have to do it in front of Prower?"
"Only because thee maketh it so."
Miles chuckles at the two of them.
"You guys really are something else, huh."
Beric looks to Edouard and smiles.
"This one most c'rtainly is."
"Baron, we're receivin' a communications ping from thuh airship."
The rabbit chuckles.
"Ah suppose they're gonna try and beg fer their lives. Well, let's hear their captain's pleas. Seein' thuh look on his face right before Ah cut transmission will be priceless, Ah bet."
The gecko nods and presses a button. The image that comes to life on the screen sends shock through his very body.
"Hello, Beauregard."
"Princess Acorn?!"
"'Sally' is just fine."
Things have become much more complicated for the Baron as of this moment.
It's one thing ta kill people she don't know, another ta kill her friend...
"What's the matter, wasn't expecting me?"
Her words snap him out of his reflection.
No. Ah can't let that stand in the way of what's right. Ah gotta do this
"No, Ah wasn't."
"Well, I'll save both of our time and cut right to the chase. The Enduring won't win this battle; she'll be nothing more than a scrapheap on the ground and her over four thousand passengers will be dead, myself included."
The Baron smiles at the confirmation of his inevitable victory.
"Seems like ya're a smart girl."
"I hope I can say the same for you."
He grimaces somewhat at the subtle jab at his person, in more ways than one.
"The HMS Enduring is a fine airship, one of only a few of the modern fighter-carriers. She serves an experimental role in warfare and even if she wasn't she's still a mighty vessel that any nation would be happy to possess."
"Get ta thuh point, Acorn."
"All of that will be gone if you simply shoot her out of the sky."
"And ya want me ta just let ya fly on by?"
She shakes her head.
"No, I want you to let us land."
His eyes widen.
"What?"
"I can offer you the perfect deal: my death and the HMS Enduring on a silver platter, alongside several thousand POWs who you can release back to Acorn to spread fear among the ranks of your enemy."
His surprise is now replaced with skepticism; the guns are still firing, their great blasts thundering throughout the air as sand and dust continue swirling around.
"Right, and Ah'm supposed ta think ya'll offer all of that?"
"Not think, know. Because I'm not simply offering it for free. Like everything in life, this exchange will require something from you."
"Ya're not really in a position ta argue fer demands or concessions."
"I, Princess Sally Alicia of the House of Acorn, challenge you, Baron Beauregard Rabbot, to a duel to the death."
Surprise once more finds it way on his face.
"Ah must admit, Acorn, yer sending me fer quite a fine spin with this 'genius' plan of yers. But Ah think Ah'll decline. Ah hold all thuh cards and taking this airship down, and ya with it, will make a fine enough symbol on its own ta all thuh oppressed and oppressors while denying ya thuh chance ta pull any tricks."
Sally simply chuckles at his denial.
"Of course, I shouldn't have expected anything else from you."
He raises an eyebrow at the words.
"What's that supposed ta mean?"
Sally gives an amused look, seeming to not truly believe that the Baron couldn't figure out what she means.
"Oh, isn't it obvious? You're still a pawn for Robotnik. Always have been, always will be, it seems."
His fury at her words is palpable.
"Ya should watch yer tongue, Princess; someone might cut it out."
"Get angry all you want; the truth remains the same. He wants me dead, and you'll do whatever he says. You would never agree to duel me, because then you could simply capture me and use me for your own purposes, same with the airship; but he's got you on a tight leash and you'll do anything to make he sure he doesn't remind you of that fact."
He bares his teeth as he grits them.
"Ya shut yer mouth! Ah ain't under his control or anyone's else! None of us are! We're free Mobians and we aren't following any masters!"
"All the fancy words don't change reality. To be honest, I just feel bad for Bunnie. I wonder how she'll feel learning you really were rotten all along, that you're nothing but a villain?"
His fury transcends into uncontrollable rage, causing him to slam his left hand on the desk, shattering it in two without issue, scaring the operators around him.
"Ya leave her out of this!"
Sally maintains her smug, confident, and almost mocking tone, posture, and expression.
"I wish I could, but sadly news of this will get out. Nothing I can do about that."
"Yer on fer that duel! Ah'm gonna teach ya some respect ya revoltin' royal!"
Sally simply smiles.
"Glad we're on the same page."
She then cuts the transmission, denying him the last word or the chance to cut her off. Her insult stings him hard.
"On the same page"
The implication, that he is also royalty due to his administering of this nation he's been forging, makes him feel things he isn't sure.
Ah'm not! These people chose me! Ah care fer them! Ah'm one of them! That fucking girl doesn't know what she's talking about!
He stomps his right foot into the metal ground, denting the floor. A Robian armadillo, the same one he called earlier today, walks up behind him.
"Uncle Baron, art thee alright?"
"Matilda, get me ma sabre."
The red fox sports a worried look.
"I hope you know what you are doing, Your Royal Highness..."
Sally no longer looks smug and confident, instead her face is deadly serious.
"I do. I'll need a weapon."
"Wait right here, Your Royal Highness."
Grey departs from the bridge as the Baron's artillery guns cease firing and the Enduring begins its steady descent to land. The wind outside is blowing more and more fiercely.
"Alright, I think it's safe to say we're all in favor of this plan?"
The entire Confederated Council nods and raise their hands.
"The motion passes unanimously."
Tower gets up and walks over to the two Mobians.
"Hello Agents."
Shadow and Rouge both nod, though the latter's is more of an abstract one makes while somewhere else mentally.
"What are you doing here?"
"Just making sure nothing happens to this meeting. So many important people in one place. Besides, Hope and Omega aren't finished yet so I don't see anything better to do."
Tower nods.
"Good reason."
"Commander, I have a question."
The hedgehog speaks rather quiet this time, to the point where the eight sitting at the table cannot hear him. Tower goes to sit beside him.
"What is it?"
"If we figure out that Charlemagne is indeed backed by Robotnik, what do we do next?"
Tower rubs his chin.
"I'm not sure. I don't want to just remove him, for all we know that could be exactly what Robotnik wants, but to just leave him be also seems worrying. For the moment you'll have to just do nothing and observe the situation, even if you uncover the connection."
Shadow nods at the answer as Tower walks back to the table. He then turns to Rouge.
"You can leave now if you want."
She, not really paying attention, snaps out of her absentminded state.
"What?"
"You can go now."
She has a look in her eyes that shows just how much she wants to but then her face changes.
"Thanks, but I think I'll stay."
They smile to each other, his conveying a simple idea.
Thank you
The Baron sits in the sand, eyes shut as the heat of the wind blows all around him and sand and dust cover his fur, coat, and hat.
Thuh winds of change
He digs his right hand into the sand.
An ocean of sand
He then pulls out a pile and grains begin rapidly fall out of his hand.
Slipping through yer fingers, away from ya, back ta where they're from
Soon, almost all the sand is gone, leaving just a small remnant on his palm. He thinks about his love.
Lulumae, Ah'm can't believe someone like ya had ta waste away like that. No dignity in that kinda death...
He thinks to his family.
George and Belle, Ah hope ya're in a bettah place.
They're all gone, save for one.
Ah promise, Ah will keep her safe
He sighs and opens his eyes and observes the remaining grains.
Some always remain with ya. A lot like life, in a way
He thinks about his niece, strong, healthy, safe.
Be grateful fer that much
"Uncle Baron."
He stands himself up, dusts himself off, and turns to face Matilda; behind her are around seventy other people quickly catching up. She is holding a scabbard.
"Thank ya, dear."
The Robian nods and extends it out to him and he takes it.
"The storm seems to beest getting serious."
He simply nods.
"A hot wind is blowing. Lucky for us, we're thuh hardy cacti, and they're thuh delicate flowers.
"That we art, Uncle, that we art."
The red fox returns to Sally's view, holding a scabbard.
"Your Royal Highness,"
Grey walks up to her.
"I would be honoured if you would accept my blade in this fight."
Sally nods.
"Of course, Captain."
She grabs the ornate scabbard.
"I will beat him, so that we can all go home."
And, although that is true, that is not the true reason she is willing to fight with all her might. It is only because it is a necessary precondition for what she really wants, and if it wasn't so, if it was contrary to getting what she wants above all else, she would damn every single person on the airship to death, and fates worse than it, without a second thought.
So I can see my family again, so I can see my love again, so I can see my boy again
"Man, this snow just doesn't seem to let up."
Edouard nods.
"Agreed. Vous savoir, that makes moi think this is le night."
Miles raises an eyebrow at that while the jackal turns to face the hedgehog
"Don't vous agree?"
Beric nods.
"Aye."
Edouard quickly stands up.
"What's going on?"
"Vous will see, Prower. Stay with Thomas."
He then quickly sprints off, disappearing into the camp, leaving Miles and Beric alone. He raises his glove back up and observes the now dry stain on it.
"Beric?"
"Aye, childe?"
"Do you enjoy it?"
"Enjoye wh-"
His words come to a stop as he turns to face Miles and sees what he's looking at.
"Childe, I-"
"Don't. It's okay, I understand."
"What?"
"I understand, what it feels like to like it, to enjoy it, to revel in it."
"How-"
"It's a long story, one I won't tell you. Sorry, nothing against you it's just really,"
He is still staring at the spot and is silent for a brief moment.
"Personal."
He sighs.
Yet I still told Edouard, I stained him with that knowledge, ensured that not even with my death will it go away...
Beric is silent as he processes what he's being told.
"But that song, the one only us three sung togeth'r, thee said thee did regret what thee didst to h'r?"
Miles nods.
"Yea, but in the moment? I was happy."
I never got to see you die
"I can't deny that I enjoy it, despite knowing that's not good, despite knowing it's horrible. For a while, I used to say that I only enjoyed it because it was the right thing to do, which it was, but when I forgot about them,"
He closes his eyes and struggles to try and remember the voices he imagined for those people he saw burned to cinders right in front of him, because of him, that spurred him on to do what he did.
I can't, I haven't been able to, not for a long time. I'm not sure how long...
"That illusion, that lie, went with them. I may have done it cause it was the right thing, but I enjoyed it entirely on its own."
He knows he is being vague and Beric knows that he knows. They share the understanding that no details beyond what are said will be revealed; not tonight.
And soon, never again
"I think that's why I came here. I could've gone to so many places, done so many things. Hell, I could've still come here but worked to do something other than helping a side win. I think it's also why I build what I build. I could be making breakthroughs and innovations in agriscience, hydrology, genetics, sociology, ecology and a dozen other fields that could help in millions of ways; feeding the hungry and relieving the thirsty, curing diseases and healing the wounded, unifying people and restoring nature."
He sighs once again.
"But instead, my whole life, I've been fascinated and drawn to engineering, hoplology, physics, chemistry, computer and military science; forging weapons to destroy, crafting ammunition and propellants and energy cells to ensure they would have something to fire, constructing suits, vehicles, and delivery systems to ensure they could reach the target effectively, building intelligences and algorithms, scripts, code, systems, programs, to handle them most efficiently, and studying the hows, whens, and whys of it all so as to understand where to apply it all."
He thinks about Cocoa Island.
Uncle, Father, Mother; why did I name them that? What's wrong with me?
He thinks about Northamer.
I tried to get you to agree with me, to see what the obvious fact. But maybe I'm the one who's not seeing what's obvious
As Beric hooks an arm around him, he thinks about where he is right now.
'Le Soldat', a name that at least half the country will curse for who knows how long. Maybe forever
"Childe, war shall only wend away at which hour all the w'rld is of one mind and one soul. That is a day which shall nev'r arriveth, so we must maketh do with what we has't."
His eyes are still shut and he remembers what Edouard said to him earlier.
"Only the dead have seen the end of war."
"So that's it? Just give up? Just accept that war will never end? That suffering, which was here long before us, is with us all our lives, will also persist long after we're gone?"
"Childe, I nev'r hath said to giveth up, but we cannot deny reality. Th're's always a war coming, but 'tis in our pow'r to choose what 'twill beest, and which side shall winne. We can doth nothing m're."
The two of them sit in the silence.
"Childe, doth thee wishe to beest joyous?"
He wants to say no, not externally, for that would be alarming and would likely lead to his plan being revealed; he wants to say it inside, in his mind and soul, say it with certainty, that he doesn't wish to be happy, that he wishes to do only what's right, and to leave this world content with the path he's chosen.
But I can't, and I do
"Yes."
He hates himself for that answer.
One thing that'll never change about me I guess; selfish
"Then doth not regrete that thee playe a parte in suff'ring, f'r the suff'ring will always beest th're; rath'r, finde comf'rt in the speede with which thee ende the current bout of it and the joy thee bring to those thee care f'r aft'r it. Th're is something more wondrous'r than even happiness, howev'r. Doth thee wishe to knowe how to achieve it?"
The snow falls on them and the boy nods.
"Accepte the things which fate binds to thee and loveth the people which fate endues to thee; has't the s'renity to accepte things thee cannot affect, the courage to change that which thee can, and the und'rstanding to recognize which is which. Once thee accepte that some things art in thy controle, and some things art not, thee shall finde something more wondrous'r than even happiness; thee shall finde peace. Maybe not f'r the w'rld, but f'r yourself."
Peace and happiness. I want them both. But if I have them, I'll break them
He can only say one thing, the same thing he said to Edouard.
"Life is so complicated."
"Thee hath said it, childe."
He thinks about what he wants more than anything else in the world.
Family; one that I won't, can't, break. And you, Mom
"There we go, done."
Nicole smiles at Charles' words as she grabs one of the bracelets.
"What a pleasant surprise we'll have for her when she returns."
"Here's hoping she won't need them."
"I would say 'don't waste your breath', but..."
"A fair point. She seems to always find herself in those situations, as do the rest of them. I'm just happy you all manage to find your way out as well."
Sally, accompanied by Grey and around forty other aviators, walk into the field, opposite them is the Baron and his much larger host.
"Good to see you've agreed to the terms of agreement. You understand that the obvious flip side is that if I kill you, we get to leave here, right? No ifs or buts."
"Don't insult ma intelligence."
She smirks as the sandstorm around them becomes more and more intense. It isn't easy putting on this act, but she's learned well.
Thank you, my love
"Glad we're on the same page."
The two of them walk forward as their respective crowds back up and observe and don't stop until they are right across from each other. The Baron peers right into Sally's eyes, in them is a conviction so strong he can't help but respect it.
Ah'm sorry Buns, Ah hope ya understand why Ah'm doin' this
Sally looks into Beauregard's eyes as well, they are fierce with a fury she can understand, if only very recently.
I'm sorry Bunnie, I hope you don't hate me for this
They each extend a hand outward, the two paws lock and they shake hands as sand, dust, and dirt blow on them.
But I need to see you again, to see you all again
"Don't think I'll go easy on you, geezer."
He chuckles.
"Royals, always so arrogant. Ah'm thuh one with cybernetics, and Ah'm gonna pound ya into a royal, red stain."
The two step back and give each other ample space.
Now Playing: "The Hot Wind Blowing"
(Freedom Mix Remake Version)
(By Jamie Christopherson and Ferry Corsten)
The two simply observe each other, just breathing. She closes her eyes and thinks of him.
My son
Wind of destruction!
Sally places a hand on her scabbard as she opens her eyes. The Baron places his left hand, his robotic hand, on his own.
Ma sweetheart
Wind of destruction!
Their eyes remain locked as the sandstorm continues blowing, causing annoyance and irritation to both of them.
Wind of destruction!
They are both thinking the same thing.
Wind of destruction!
This is it, do or die
They both draw their weapons, with Sally being a little quicker on the draw. Their blades hum with the sound of vibrations and they once more share a thought.
Let's dance
The sandstorm makes them both uncomfortable, itchy, irritated, and torrid, but they are resolved to see to the matter at hand. Grey and Matilda observe the duo with equal parts pride and concern. They are thinking the same thing.
I hope this isn't a mistake
The hot wind blowing
Jagged lines across the sand!
The crumbling buildings
In our minds are all that stand!
"I can't believe you're still working with him, after everything."
The Baron grits his teeth at the words but he says nothing.
Just like the buffalo,
Blindly following the herd,
We try to justify
All the things that have occurred!
Ah ain't working fer him, and Ah don't need yer validation
He can't suppress the smile born of hatred coming to his face as he looks upon Sally.
That livin' example of gall and hatred, that individual: a royal
He lunges forward.
We fight for justice, (Justice!)
In a forgotten place!
Fulfill our duty,
Then vanish without a trace!
They engage each other, with the Baron delivering powerful strikes that Sally can do nothing against other than dodge.
Don't need a medal, (Medal!)
For all the men we kill! (Men we kill!)
Freedom is calling,
To all men who bend their will! (Their will!)
They break off their engagement for a moment, gathering themselves and regaining their composure.
Wind of destruction!
Sally observes him.
Can't clash blades with him or let him land a hit on me, that arm is serious trouble
The Baron notices she is staring.
Wind of destruction!
Let's give her a little display
He leans down and digs his left hand down into the sand, even deeper, and then pulls it out, revealing a chunk of hard, solid, rock in it, ripped straight from the ground. He stares right into her eyes.
That's right little girl, watch
He effortlessly smashes it to pieces in his hand without breaking eye contact.
Matilda nods and smiles at the sight while Grey grimaces.
Your Royal Highness, I hope you know what you're doing...
The hot wind blowing
Jagged lines across the sand!
The crumbling buildings
In our minds are all that stand!
"Nice enhancements, Eggman definitely knows how to make 'em, doesn't he?"
His confident expression vanishes and an indignant one rises in its place.
Just like the buffalo,
Blindly following the herd,
We try to justify
All the things that have occurred!
A tool ain't evil, it's how ya use it and what fer
The sandstorm is now a serious issue for them, but they both forge through it as best they can and charge forth at one another.
Heat of the desert! (Desert!)
Dust settles on my face!
Without a compass,
The soldier knows no disgrace!
Sally struggles to continuously avoid the Baron's strikes but manages to alleviate the pressure by striking his right leg, though it manages to resist the attack.
Out of the ashes, (Ashes!)
The eagle rises still!
Freedom is calling,
To all men who bend their will! (Their will!)
Sally dodges a strike but is caught off guard by the Baron backhanding her with his right hand.
Wind of destruction!
She backs up and he doesn't pursue. He smiles wildly at her and for the first time she feels doubt.
What if I lose?
All men who bend their will! (Their will!)
She shakes her head.
Can't think like that! There's only one path forward for me!
Her words give her strength as the Baron extends his arms out to the side and slowly raises them up.
Wind of destruction!
He seems almost as if he is praising the sky above as the intense sandstorm rages.
Freedom is calling,
To all men who bend their will! (Their will!)
His moment of reverence to something comes to a halt and the two lock eyes once more. The Baron begins laughing.
Wind of destruction!
"That's yer undoing: pride and arrogance. Ya always think yer bettah than everyone else, and because of that ya'll let yer own worse enemies right into yer midst!"
Sally is confused but not because she can't understand what he is saying, though due to the storm such a thing isn't easy for her and probably downright taxing for anyone further out.
"What?!"
"Oh, don't worry too much about it, ya won't be livin' fer long enough fer it ta mattah!"
She thinks about what he could possibly be referring to; as much as she hates there's only one thing that she can think of.
The hot wind blowing
Jagged lines across the sand!
The crumbling buildings
In our minds are all that stand!
My father, all the people he let in...
She thinks about the list, it's rather long. She then thinks about the one who she can't seem to figure out.
Just like the buffalo,
Blindly following the herd,
We try to justify
All the things that have occurred!
Was he one of them? Is that why he hates him? Why he hates Miles?
Her thoughts are interrupted by an assault from the Baron. He has one thought in his mind as he unleashes a flurry of fury.
I don't know what I've been told,
But the wishes of the people can't be controlled!
Sally cannot avoid all the strikes and the Baron lands several on her arms and torso.
"Agh!"
First her, than thuh rest will follow
I don't know what I've been told,
But the wishes of the people can't be controlled!
She retaliates with a swipe at his chest, injuring him greatly; he grits through the pain and portrays a façade of it being ineffective.
"That thuh best ya got?"
He then punches her right in the chest with his left hand, sending her flying a few feet. She lands face first into the ground and he quickly goes to finish her off.
Heat of the desert! (Desert!)
Dust settles on my face!
Without a compass,
The soldier knows no disgrace!
She can scarcely breathe as the wind has been knocked out of her, but she finds the strength to grasp a handful of sand and turns to throw into the Baron's face.
"Gah!
Out of the ashes, (Ashes!)
The eagle rises still! (Rises still!)
Freedom is calling,
To all men who bend their will! (Their will!)
He rubs his eyes and in that brief moment she regains her breath and lunges upward, slashing him across his chest and then striking his right arm, causing him to yell in pain. The crowd watches with uncertainty while Grey and Matilda both think the same thing.
Anyone's game
We fight for justice, (Here I am!)
In a forgotten place!
Fulfill our duty, (Here I am!)
Then vanish without a trace!
Realising that remaining this close to her while he can't properly see is a losing battle, the Baron raises his left foot and then pounds hard into the ground with his right foot, jumping high in the air and landing back several feet.
Don't need a medal, (Here I am!)
For all the men we kill! (Men we kill!)
Freedom is calling, (Here I am!)
To all men who bend their will! (Their will!)
The storm continues to rage on as the two sides take a breather to recuperate. The Baron thinks about quickly the scales have been evened while Sally wipes a small drip of blood from her mouth from the Baron's backhand earlier.
Tough one, now I see where Bunnie gets it from...
Here I am, (Wind of destruction!)
Dirty and faceless,
Waiting to heed your instruction! (Wind of destruction!)
The Baron rubs his robotic hand over his chest, blood clings to it as do some fur due to static electricity.
She's good, Ah'll give her that...
They stare each other right in the eyes and give a nod, one of mutual antagonism, but also mutual respect. The Baron then switches his sabre to his right hand.
Using his weak hand?
On my own, (Wind of destruction!)
Invisible warrior, (Freedom is calling,)
I am a wind of destruction! (To all men who bend their will!)
The two return to assailing each other, with the Baron trying to grab her while she aims to disable his leg.
Can't lose!
There is little grace in their fighting, it is ugly, dirty, rough, and crude. Despite both sides fully trying to kill the other, they share a common understanding; they will be the one who wins.
No matter what it takes!
Heat of the desert! (Here I am,)
Dust settles on my face! (Dirty and faceless,)
Without a compass, (Waiting to heed)
The soldier knows no disgrace! (Your instruction!)
The Baron manages to grab Sally's right hand mid-swing, her eyes, equal parts fear and preparation. The Baron smirks as he begins tightening the grip on the hand and she drops the sword to the ground.
"Seems like yer luck's run out."
Her face is one of pain as he crushes her hands, obviously, but through it she produces a smile, not one of smug arrogance like the one she had faked before, but a genuine one that glows, like one reveling in a triumph even as a she hears a bone break.
Out of the ashes, (On my own!)
The eagle rises still! (Wind of destruction!)
Freedom is calling, (Invisible warrior!)
To all men who bend their will! (I am a wind of destruction!)
"Could, say the same..."
She struggles to speak as her left hand quickly swivels from her side and onto the Baron's forearm; his eyes widen but before he can even move a muscle or piston on either of his arms his left arms goes totally limp, letting Sally's hand go, and falling dead to his side.
"Clevah girl, aren't ya?"
Sally tries to place another EMP on his leg but he kicks her with his left leg, sending her on her back.
"Ah don't need it ta beat ya!"
He jumps forward, slamming his right foot hard into the ground, dispelling sand and cracking the rock, right where she would be if she hadn't rolled to the side in the mean time. She stands up, no weapon in hand. Then the Baron does something that shocks her and everyone observing.
Did he just drop his weapon?
Wind of destruction!
He has. Sand and dust blows up from where his sabre lies due to its vibrations.
"Let's level thuh playin' field! After all, that's what we're fightin' fer; a fair world!"
Wind of destruction!
"No weapons, no tools, just what we came into this world with."
Sally nods.
I can win that fight, easily
They both raise their one good hand and close the distance.
Wind of destruction!
They throw and receive punches. Any air of dignity that existed is gone.
Wind of destruction!
The two have devolved fully, now they are little more than two savages slugging it out. The Baron, despite being a quarter of a century older than Sally, puts up a much better fight than expected, however Sally still feels confident that she will win.
Just a little closer
We fight for justice, (Justice!)
In a forgotten place!
Fulfill our duty,
Then vanish without a trace!
Even though she is an experienced fighter, even though she has braved death from threats far greater, she feels a determination to win at any costs she's scarcely felt.
One more step
She punches the Baron and he stumbles back to regain his footing; in that moment, she quickly dives down and grabs her blade and slashes across the Baron's chest.
"AGH! Ya sneaky bastard!"
The Enduring's aviators light up with joy at this, having been tense as can be the whole fight.
"Go Your Royal Highness!"
The natural response to being confronted with an opponent who has a weapon while you don't would be to retreat, but the Baron knows that would only be delaying the inevitable.
Only one way ta win this
Don't need a medal, (Medal!)
For all the men we kill! (Men we kill!)
Freedom is calling,
To all men who bend their will! (Their will!)
He charges forward, hoping to catch her off guard and prevent her from focusing. Unfortunately for him, this is no spur of the moment decision on Sally's part, but a calculated plan.
Set out the bait
She makes a motion for his right leg and, expecting this, he counters it by stopping for a split second and pulling it back.
And fall for it
But the motion was merely a feint and she instead sweeps his now isolated left leg, leaving him on the ground on his back.
Wind of destruction!
She positions her blade right above his neck. At the sight, the Enduring's aviators cheer for her victory.
"HUZZAH!"
The Baron's citizens are of a different mind and several are about to begin charging forth to save him but are stopped by the Robian armadillo, her arms stretched out.
"Nay!"
They all give her looks of disbelief.
"But they ha-"
"I know, I hath eyes too. But he made an agreement, swore on it. Uncle Baron is an honoruable man, he will abide by his agreement; and we, the people of the Western Barony, must follow his example and abide by it as well. Otherwise, we're nay better than the Acorns."
Though they don't like what she is saying, they understand and give reluctant murmurs and nods of agreement. Matilda looks to the Baron, lying on the floor; somehow, he can sense it and turns to face her after she's done so. He has one thought in his mind as he looks at all of his people.
Keep on thuh struggle, do this ol' man proud...
He returns his eyes to Sally, standing over him victoriously. The sandstorm is still raging and they both pant in exhaustion.
"Well, what're ya waitin' fer? Go ahead, Ah don't got all day."
Sally stares into his eyes. She knows he is a threat, that he won't stop fighting her after today, but she also knows that he is family of her family, that he is beaten, and that she can go home, that see her family, maybe even see her son one day, without having to kill him. She thinks to her dream.
"I'll kill anyone; for you, and the rest of my family "
The words resonate with her just as much now as they did in the dream; but they were, and are, too brief and lack necessary context. She will rectify that.
I'll kill anyone; for you, my son, and the rest of my family, that I have to
She doesn't have to kill him.
And I won't
She tosses her blade off to the side, stunning everyone, the Baron especially. His mouth hangs opens but he says no words and makes no sounds.
I hope you learn from this, for Bunnie's sake
She extends her left hand, her unbroken one, down to him.
Maybe things aren't as simple as Ah thought...
He grasps the open hand with his organic one, his only functioning one, and pulls himself up. He bends over to pick his hat up and dons it. The storm continues to rage as they stare into each other's eyes; in the midst of it all an understanding has been reached. Not one of love, of acceptance, of reconciliation, only of understanding, but at least it's an understanding.
"Ya're free ta leave."
The Baron slowly walks over to pick up his sabre, left arm hanging lifelessly, while Sally does the same with Grey's blade. As the two return to their respective groups, they share one last thought, about one another.
There might just be hope,
Sally joins the aviators returns Grey's blade to him. The Baron is in her thoughts.
For you
Beauregard is now back with his people and gives Matilda a nod, proud of her for preventing a full fight breaking out and staying true to the deal. The Princess is in his.
Fer ya
The walrus sits with the owl.
"You want me to build something that will violate the privacy of hundreds of thousands of people, at a mininum?"
"I was hoping you could tune it so that it would minimise uninvolved individuals being caught up in it, in fact. But yes."
Rotor sighs and looks down.
"Alright. I don't like this, but if things are as serious you say they are, I'll do it. I'll need time and a specialised insertion method to prevent discovery."
"Well I'm not sure how much time is left, but we have some."
"And specialised insertion?"
"Something we must assuredly will have."
The hedgehog and the bat walk through the street. The rain has come to a stop and most of the clouds are gone leaving a clear night sky.
"Sure is pretty, isn't it, Shadow?"
Shadow nods.
"Yes, it is."
As they gaze upon the stars, they see the mighty space station orbiting in space above them. Rouge turns to face him.
"Do you need to be alone?"
"I don't need to, but I'd like it."
She nods and begins walking away. He says one last thing to her before she is out of earshot and then sight.
"Thank you."
Now, all alone, he can simply think about it.
Where I was born, and where you died
He still hasn't come to grips with that irony.
Maybe I never will. Maybe that's okay
He slowly ambles forth, aimlessly, eyes and thoughts fixed on the great space station above.
I wish you could've seen it like this; I think you would've loved it
He begins humming a song. He wishes with all his heart that it was to her, but it isn't. Instead, it's for her.
I wish you could've been here. I wish you could've heard this song. I wonder if you would've loved it
The two hedgehogs lay on the grass side by side, gazing at the night sky.
"Sure is pretty, huh?"
Silver nods at her words.
"Yea, it is."
He thinks of how many nights he spent just looking at them with his parents.
Too few
Then he thinks about how many he spent looking at them alone.
Too many
He simply sighs.
"Amy, have yo-"
Her pink arm stretches out.
"Look!"
He turns to see what she's pointing out. At the sight of it, he feels something in his chest he can't quite describe.
Space Colony ARK; Empyreal Sentinel
"Man, how lucky are we to get to see the ARK?"
"Very."
Bad luck, that is
"And you know what us seeing it means?"
He turns his head to look at her, she has already done the same. The gold and green meet.
"No, I don't."
"It means that us looking for Shadow is the right decision, it's another sign."
More like an omen...
"How so?"
"Once again, way too many coincidences all lining up. Shadow is from there."
Silver perks an eyebrow at the words. But instead of asking her, he simply returns back to looking at the sky, closes his eyes to focus, and begins reading her thoughts.
Hard to believe he saw her die right in front of him, that's terribl-
His eyes remain shut but his singular focus on her thoughts is gone.
"Who is she?"
"Silver, what did I say about reading thoughts?"
"I can't help it."
He lies without skipping a beat.
"Now, who is she?"
His tone isn't angry or aggressive, but neither is it relaxing or laid-back; it holds a strong, yet quiet, demanding tone that somewhat worries Amy.
"His friend. They grew up on there."
"How did she die?"
"The Federation became afraid of him, thought he would be used as a weapon against them, so G.U.N. moved to shut down the project and everything else with it. She died in the crossfire and his escape pod crashed, knocking him out."
Silver simply breathes as he takes it all in.
"I'm sorry that happened to him. I know what it's like."
Amy nods, understanding what he's leaving out.
"I bet you two could talk about a lot, be best buds. He could help you with your home, your parents, and you could help him with the ARK, with Maria. The past is-"
His eyes shoot open at that name and he turns to face her.
"What was her name?"
Amy is somewhat shocked by the sudden change in demeanor, from calm to animated.
"Maria, Maria Robotnik. But don't worry, she's got nothing to do with Eggman."
Silver couldn't care less about her last name as he leans back; all of his attention is focused on her first.
M.A.R.I.A.
"Well, let's take our little nap so we can get to Central City before tomorrow. Night, Silver."
He doesn't respond and simply takes one last look at the space station before shutting his eyes. Sleep takes him.
The two Robians reach the Mobotropolis Gates. A city guard regards them.
"Ya got I.D., Robies?"
They both nod and smile despite the term being slung at them as they hand him the papers. His eyes scan them and quickly shoot open.
"Oh, I didn't realise it was you two! My apologies, please go right on in."
They murmur half-hearted thank-yous and proceed forth. The change in demeanor because of who they are doesn't really heal the pain caused due to the behavior he exhibited because of what they are. Jules and Bernadette both look down, but for different reasons. The latter in gloominess due to her work doing little for the good name of Robians everywhere, the former in guilt.
They only exist because of me. He's only alive because of me
But they forge on nonetheless. They look up and at each other.
"One day a time, Bernie. One day at a time."
AN: Okay, the second thing that's important to inform you of is that there is indeed a song written out, as well as an entire scene, for Shadow. However, while doing other parts of this chapter, I realised that his song and section could stand completely on its own and even fit into canon, so I'll be posting it as a oneshot under the name " Star Over The Sea Of Sorrow" after I post this. It's not even a thousand words so it's a real nice and easy read. Anyways, hoped you enjoyed this chapter.