Chapter 101: Freedom Fighters Forever

Last time on Sonic the Hedgehog, a long overdue break is given to the heroes of Mobius after the defeat of Mammoth Mogul. Though Sonic decides to retire from the Freedom Fighters, he says he'll be back. But what comes next for our heroes...?

Starring:

Miles "Tails" Prower - Genius Prodigy
Sally Acorn - New Leader of FF
Bunnie "Rabbot" O'Hare - Cyborg Southern Belle
Antoine D'Coolette - Captain of the Acorn Guard

Castle Acorn; A Week after Sonic left...

*Within the Castle Acorn courtyard, Sally and Tails were setting up decorations around; heart balloons, tables, even an altar.*

Sally: "Time to go over the list one more time. Balloons..."

Tails: "Check!"

Sally: "Food and refreshments?"

Tails: "Check and check!" *Looks over to Fiona who was carrying a punch bowl before stirring it; Vanilla and Cream were carrying in a three-layer wedding cake; Agatha was floating in other assorted foods for the consession.*

Sally: "Ribbons?"

Tails: "Courtesy of the Hedgehog Residence sewing committee." *Turns to Bernie, who was holding a ladder, and Jules, who was setting up the ribbons proper.*

Sally: "That leaves the altar and-"

Amy: "WRONG!" *Looks at the wedding arrangements with a serious, analytical look.* "This is not good enough, princess! For a wedding, we need to make this special. These ribbons are good, but they need to be placed evenly."

Jules: "Uh... We thought they were even...?" *Looks back and sees that maybe some slight rearranging could help.*

Amy: "The wedding cake looks really delicious, but the rest of the food doesn't look as appetizing!"

Agatha: "...You try cooking for the first time in a couple of millennia, Amy... See if you can retain any skills behind a modern stove that didn't exist in my time." *This level of frustration has Amy back up, reeling back her comment.*

Sally: "Amy... I get that you are big on weddings..."

Amy: "Big on weddings?" *Turns to Sally with an angered look, almost like Sally insulted her.* "My family sets up these kinds of weddings for a living. When it comes to weddings, I am a perfectionist. I will settle on nothing less than a perfect wedding for the newlyweds."

Tails: "Well... Why don't we call your family and have them help out then?" *Smiles innocently at Amy, bracing himself for a mouthful.*

Amy: "We...aren't on talking terms... Sorry... I would if I could..." *Rubs the front of her shoe on the ground as she looks away.*

Sally: *Places a hand on Amy's shoulder.* "Then how about this? I'll go check on Bunnie while Tails checks on Antoine. No need to get too worked... If you offer to help straighten things out." *Hands Amy the list of things needed to be done with a smile.*

Amy: *Stares at Sally before saluting.* "Yes, ma'am!" *Runs off to help with the ribbons.*

Tails: "You think part of the reason she's she angsty is because of Sonic being gone?"

Sally: "Probably. But you know him..."

Both: "Can't hold still for anything."

*The two share a laugh at that before entering the castle proper.*

Sally: "I'll go see the bride and you go see the groom. See how they're feeling."

Tails: "Alright!"

Castle Acorn; Bride's Room

*Sally knocks on the door before being allowed entry by her mother, who was working on Bunnie's dress and hair.*

Alicia: "Oh my, Sally... Is it already time?"

Sally: "Nah, not yet. We still have a little while longer. Just came to check on the bride to be."

Bunnie: "Aw, yer sweet as jelly beans, Sal. I'm doin' alright... A bit nervous though..."

Alicia: "Oh don't be. Marriages are a wonderful time to be with the one you love."

Sally: "What was your marriage like, Mom?" *Sits on a chair nearby.*

Bunnie: "Yeah. Do tell. How'd you 'n the King get togethah?"

Alicia: "Oh, please... That is an old story..." *Sees the two lean in with excited faces.* "Fine, fine. I'll tell... It was about twenty odd years ago during the Battle of the South, a battle in which the Southern Baronies were causing a mess against the Royalty of Acorn. Maximillan, a Prince at the time, served as the army's leader and figurehead. I was but a simple on-field nurse that tended to the injured."

Sally: "Oh I think I know where this is going." *Starts giggling.*

Alicia: "Hah! Yep! Reckless to the Max as he was called back in the day. He'd charge headfirst, fight with all his might, and come crawling back to my tent just for me to tend to him. At first I was annoyed at his brashness... But I started finding his tendency to get himself hurt a bit...endearing in a way. When the battle ended in a treaty between he and the leader of the Southern Baronies, he nervously approached my closing tent and decided to confess his feeling to me as the reason for his reckless behavior. To say I was...taken aback would be underselling my reaction." *She gives a nervous chuckle as she sees her younger self tossing her medical bag right at Young Max's face.* "Alas, I did forgive him and said to him... 'If you just wanted to dance, you should have just asked, my sweet prince.'..." *Sees Sally and Bunnie's reaction.*

Sally: "My mom just slugged royalty in the face with a bag."

Bunnie: "And got away with it. That's what you call guts."

*Alicia just blushes bashfully at this before stepping away from Bunnie's dress.*

Alicia: "All set. You look absolutely dashing, Bunnie."

Bunnie: "Aw... I feel like a princess in this gown."

*There was a knock at the door.*

Alicia: *Opens the door.* "Yes?"

Voice: "Yer highness. May I see my niece?"

Alicia: "Oh my gosh... You must be...!"

Bunnie: "Uncle Beauregard!" *Walks up to him, ready to hug him, but didn't want to ruin Alicia's hard work.*

Alicia: "...Oh, go ahead. What's a few more minutes of wedding work?"

*Bunnie is quick to leap into Beauregard's arms, the hugging like a good family reunion.*

Sheriff: "My sweet, lil Bunnie. How you've grown... I still remembah you were barely able to walk last I saw ya." *Sees Bunnie's robot parts, his expression changing.* "Honey... What happened to you...?"

Bunnie: "Its...a long story..."

Castle Acorn; Groom's Room

*Tails knocks at the door, though hearing no answer...but a lot of yelling in general, he decides to just crack it open. Peeking in, he sees General D'Coolette going hard on Antoine over his posture.*

Armand: "You call zis proper wedding posture!? Zis for commoners, not a soldier of zee guard!" *Straightens out Antoine's back, legs, and head.* "Now, walk twenty paces around zee room and let me see your march, fiston."

Tails: "Um... Maybe I should come back later..."

*Armand takes notice of Tails, turning to him.*

Armand: "Miles! A fine noon to you, sir!" *He salutes, greeting Tails like he was of higher authority.*

Tails: *Chuckles nervously at the salute as he comes in.* "Um... At ease? While me and Sally are friends, I'm hardly any big figurehead here..."

Armand: "Nonsense. You have saved zee world countless times. Zat makes you higher than I."

Tails: "Really... It's nothing... Just me and Sonic doing what we do best..." *Looks at Antoine's stiff movement.* "Though... Maybe tone down the military talk? You might be riling up the groom too much."

Armand: "Ah... Er... Ahem... I suppose I could... Antoine! Relax, fils. Maybe I have forgotten just how special zis day truly is."

Antoine: "Quite alright, father. I am of no disrespect." *Stops and takes a moment to straighten his suit.* "So um... Father... You've never told me about Mother... What was she like?"

*Armand paused before looking at the mirror. He then sighed.*

Armand: "It was during zee Battle of zee South. She was with zee enemy as a Baron. A formidable opponent, matching me blow for blow. A spectacle unlike any other... But during zee months of clashes... She would often smile to me, either to taunt me... Or for other reasons... One night, she snuck into camp, the daring vixen, and into my tent. Our interaction led to...an unexpected time to say the least..." *Clears throat before resuming.* "Trois months later, a baby carriage was delivered unto my doorstep... It was a baby boy..."

Antoine: "...Moi?"

Armand: "Oui... I have not seen her since... Though rumors state she was among those roboticized, I cannot say where she was located..."

Antoine: "But why not tell me sooner, Father?"

Armand: "You were not ready. You've not proven an adult until now. You stand, a proud soldier, a soon-to-be-loving-husband... While I have never had an opportunity to marry... You will at least... And know this..." *Places a hand on Antoine's shoulder.* "I have always said your mother loves you... And she still does..."

*Armand hands Antoine a letter addressed to him. It was to only be delivered once Antoine was marrying someone. Antoine reads it to himself...*

'Dear Son,

You made this far, hm? Not bad. Just like your father, you have an iron will. And like me, it just means you know how to treat others. That line of thinking will get you far, kiddo. Sorry I was never there for you. As a Baron, I leave where I want to go. But know that my heart goes out to you and your partner. Stay safe, kids. Long live the South...

- Ulessa D'Coolette'

*Antoine starts to tear up, looking at the letter before his arms go limp. Armand looks at his son before giving him a hug. Tails, feeling content, decides to let Antoine and Armand have their heart to heart, closing the door silently.*

Castle Acorn; Courtyard

*Amy was still preparing things as Tails returns, though as he did, Luna, Jani, and the Chaotix crew arrived. Luna was wearing a robe adorn with what seem to be religious themes on them while Jani was in more traditional wedding guest attire, as were the rest of the Chaotix.*

Tails: "Miss Luna! Jani!"

Luna: "Little Tails! Hello there!"

Jani: "Luna... Why are we here...?"

Luna: *Turns to her daughter with a look of annoyance.* "We are here because Sally insisted we come to show our support for Antoine and Bunnie's wedding. Come on, Jani... Don't be so rude..."

Jani: "I just hate these clothes... I'm not big on dresses."

Vector: "I think you look great, Jani! 'Course, I look snazzier in this tux." *He says as he straighten his bow tie.*

Charmy: "I can't wait to see those two walking down the aisle! Can I be the confetti guy?"

Tails: "Um... Ask Amy. She might have some room for that."

Charmy: "Yahoo!" *Buzzes off to go pester Amy.*

Tails: "And um... Why are you dressed as a secret agent, Espio?"

Espio: "This was the best outfit I had. And I honestly like it. Reminds me of those films involving a secret agent... Double-O...something..."

Tails: "Can't remember your favorite films, Espio?" *Starts to chuckle a bit.*

Espio: "Hardly my favorite. I'm more into that movie called Altered Beast."

Vector: "Oh I remember that one! Remember when the wizard-"

*Tails decides to leave the Chaotix to their bit as Jani pulls him away.*

Jani: "Yo, Tails... What's up with the purple hedgehog out of the city? We saw her on the way here and I was just curious."

Tails: "Purple... Oh! You mean Sonia?"

Jani: "Yes. I called out to her, but she didn't seem to hear me. Can't say why."

Tails: "I'll call her and tell her that a wedding is going on. Thanks for telling me though."

Jani: "As long as she doesn't cause trouble while I'm gone... Ugh... Stupid high heels..." *Walks off to drink some punch.*

Tails: "...Boy, she does not like these kinds of events, huh?" *Presses a few buttons on his wrist communicator.*

Near Albion

*Sonia is walking around the forest thicket, looking around for Manik. The general look of frustration she has could be described as 'definitely angry'. As she walks, her communicator goes off.*

Sonia: "Yeah?"

Tails: "Sonia! Where are you?"

Sonia: "Outside Albion, looking for Manik. That little twerp has a lot to explain after not helping us with Mogul and not being there to face Eggman or Dark Sonic when we could have used his help."

Tails: "Can you hold off the search? The wedding isn't going to wait for you, Sonia."

*Sonia pauses before freaking out.*

Sonia: "Oh my gosh! That was today!? Oh no! I don't even have a dress ready! I need to get a dress, make-up, I have to look my best for Antoine and Bunnie!" *Gives herself a face palm.* "I'm so sorry, Tails. I'm letting Manik's general disappearance get the better of me..."

Tails: "It's okay, Sonia. Look... I'll ask Miss Luna and Jani if they can help search for Manik in the area. Same for Tekno and the Sheriff for the Badlands. Surely he's somewhere out there."

Sonia: *Takes a deep breath before nodding.* "Thanks, Tails. I'll be at the wedding in a little while." *Closes communications before looking back. With a sigh, she runs off at sonic speed out of the thicket.*

*Deeper in though, two figures stood, one with a fist sparking with electricity.*

Castle Acorn; Throne Room

*In the throne room, King Max was debating on some things, pacing around the room while holding a piece of paper that is his rehearsal for the wedding. As he thinks, the doors to his chamber open and in walks Queen Alicia.*

Alicia: "Ever the worrywart, aren't we, my king? Thinking about your Secret Service team?"

Max: "I...admit that is in my mind. But I am also concerned about the newlyweds. Are we sure that the two are not...rushing things?"

Alicia: "Oh, Max..." *Grabs his hand before smiling.* "I'm happy to know you care... But this is their decision... Sure, for us, we decided to take things slow, but we are different from those two. What is similar is our love. To them, it is genuine... Just as our's is..."

Max: "...I suppose you are right..." *Smiles at Alicia before Sally walks in.*

Sally: "Hey, Dad!"

Max: "Sally. Are preparations about ready?"

Sally: "Yes, sir. Just waiting for you. And technically Sonia, but we can't delay things for just her."

Max: "Hmm... Very well. Have everyone seated and I shall be out there momentarily."

*Sally nods before running out to get ready herself. Max turns back to Alicia before smiling.*

Max: "Well... I suppose I must do my duty and wed these star-crossed lovers, hm?"

Alicia: *Straights up Max's uniform before smiling at him.* "Just try not to trip on your way to the altar." *Kisses his cheek before leaving.*

Castle Acorn; The Wedding

*The audience, friends mostly, were seated at the front with general guests sit in the back. Sonia was seated with her parents, but with no Sonic or Manik beside her. Vector was playing the organ, showing surprising skills at playing it, while Cream was acting as the flower girl. The wedding went on, with Armand taking his son down the aisle. And soon came the bride, escorted by her uncle Beauregard, down the aisle. Once both were here and the music stopped, King Max began to speak.*

Max: "Dearly beloved. We are gathered here today... To see the union of two lovers, who have fought for each other, and the world they protect. Both have served their kingdom well, and under the watchful eyes of Gaia, have been joined on this day. After many battles and losses, we are thankful to be here today... To witness this holy matrimony." *Turns to Antoine.* "Do you, Antoine D'Coolette, take her as your lovely, wedded wife, promise to take care of her in sickness and in health?"

Antoine: "I do."

Max: "And do you, Bunnie O'Hare, take him as your lovely, wedded husband, promise to take care of him in sickness and in health?"

Bunnie: "I do."

Max: "Then... As king of the Kingdom of Acorn, I pronounce you... Husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

*Antoine wasted no time as he kissed Bunnie on the lips, bells sounding as confetti is thrown and cheers were heard. The walk off the altar and down the aisle, with Bunnie tossing her bouquet high in the air for someone to catch. Amy tries to catch it, but she falls to the ground; instead, the bouquet lands in Agatha's lap, but she is quick to give it to Amy with a smile. Bunnie and Antoine walk under arches made by soldiers holding their swords up in salute as they leave the courtyard.*

Chaos Force

*Looking through a mirror, Sonic stares on with a smile on his face, happy for Antoine and Bunnie. Tikal behind him was meditating her energy for something before opening an eye to look at Sonic.*

Tikal: "Are you sure you don't want to go back to say congratulations, Sonic? It's not too late, you know."

Sonic: "...Nah. They'll be fine without me. As long as they have each other." *Walks away from the mirror.* "So how are you doing?"

Tikal: "The Zone Portal is about ready. Once we leave, we won't be coming back for a while."

Sonic: "Cool. Maybe...if things go well, I'll be able to better myself as a person. Turning into Dark Sonic and hurting my friends has made realize that... If I don't get a better handle on myself then... I'm going to be a bigger threat to them than Eggman ever would be. I need to fix that..."

Tikal: *Places a hand on Sonic's shoulder, smiling.* "And I am eager to help. Let us go, Sonic..." *Opens a Zone Portal, with the entire multiverse being shown to Sonic.*

*Sonic looked at the portal before jumping in with Tikal, leaving his Mobius for another one, starting his adventure away from home...*

Sonic has officially left Mobius in pursuit for controlling his mind and power. What adventures await him? And what adventures and threats await our current protectors of Mobius? Find out next time on... Sonic the Hedgehog - Book 2 - Freedom Fighters Forever!

Author Notes:

Typing for Antoine is...much harder than you think. I swear every chapter he talks in, he steadily gets less French. Which is his whole character trait. Ugh... Truly the struggles of being an American writer writing a French character... -w-

Also, for people who want to bring up the sneaking into the tent bit... It was a wholesome time. They just talked. You're just making it weird. ...Or I am.