Chapter 23 - Island in the Sky
The next morning, Anthony awoke early to get ready for the trek to the Floating Island. After
getting dressed, he found Sally, Sonia, and Zelda having breakfast in the mess hall and greeted
them. As he got himself a cup of coffee from a pot that was on one of the tables, he sensed
that the three of them were looking at him, and sensed strong feelings of admiration coming
from them. He had a feeling what this was about...
"Let me guess...either Amy or Link told you about last night and that's why you're looking at
me like that."
"On the nose, Anthony," Sally said. "Amy told us what happened during her singing and how you
comforted her afterwards. That was very sweet of you to comfort her like that. You...seemed
to know what she was going through..."
"I read the comic book storylines...how she lost her family the same way Tails did, poor kid.
She's just acting towards me the same way Tails does by calling you 'Aunt', Sal...she sees me
as family. I guess being together here as freedom fighters, you kind of consider yourselves
one big family, correct?"
"Something like that," Sonia said. "But...I think there more to it than that with Amy. I
think she really does love you like real family, Anthony."
"Man..." Anthony said, now realizing the gravity of the situation. "This...could be tough
then. How can I get her to stop without hurting her feelings. I mean...if we were to find her
real family..."
"No doubt you'll cross that bridge when you get to it, Anthony," Zelda said. "In the meantime,
you should let her see you as family. Sally tells me she's never seen Amy happier until after
you came!"
"Alright then, I guess I can handle it...now, let's talk business. Floating Island. Sal, can
the Wildcat take me and whoever I bring there?"
"It should, if you bring no more than six including yourself. Who were you going to bring?"
"Let's see...naturally T-Bone since he's the pilot...FX for his fire abilities, just in case
Koopa shows up at the portal to cause trouble...Link, Megaman, and Sonic should come too,
seeing the heroes of five worlds together could spark some general morale all around."
"You're going to bring Sonic?" Sally said, puzzled. "But..."
"I know Sal, he and Knux don't get along. But, hopefully the printout I got should change his
attitude, if it becomes necessary. Still...it might help if I bring someone friendly to Knux
to ease the situation. Anyone here on goods terms with him?"
Sonia smiled slightly at what Anthony asked and said, "Well, Sally here is on good terms with
him...though in the same way that Sonic is on good terms with Sally, if you know what I
mean..."
"I SEE, yes...well, I don't want to start a jealousy based fistfight so...anyone else?"
"Just one," Sonia said, widening her smile. "Amy Rose, who is obviously on great terms with
you. She lived on the Floating Island for a while and has established something of a
relationship with Knuckles. That, and the fact that she's friends with his kid sister
Chuckles."
"Hmmm...that COULD work, but her feelings towards me..."
"Might just be needed to ensure Knuckles's on good terms with you," Sally interjected. "Since
she's friends to you both, she might help form a connection."
"Alright, I'll tell her she's in then. She up yet?"
"Yes...and I saw her in the kitchen earlier..."
Almost on cue, Amy came out with a tray that had a breakfast arranged on it. She seemed
disappointed when she saw Anthony there...
"Aw...man! I was going to bring you breakfast in bed, Anthony!"
"Amy...you DIDN'T need to do that. After all the resting I did yesterday I don't need to
continue being lazy. I appreciate the gesture though..."
"Thank you," Amy said, setting the tray in front of where Anthony was sitting down. "At least
you still get to enjoy it."
"Indeed," Anthony said, digging into the breakfast served to him. "By the way, Amy, since I
hear you're on friendly terms with Knuckles I was considering bringing you along when I went to
the floating island. Interested?" Anthony soon found himself receiving a massive hug from the
young hedgehog and said, "I'll take that as a yes!" The other three ladies at the table
giggled at the sight of this.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T-Bone was readying the Wildcat for takeoff while the rest of the group gathered. He seemed
miffed about something...
"Anth, I'm going to be short a co-pilot. Davie just said he'd be unable to come because he's
doing a courier run at Minoc."
"Not a problem, T-Bone," Anthony said, then turning towards Megaman. "Mega, are you familiar
with piloting any type of aircraft?"
"Most of them...it was programmed into me as an emergency procedure. That includes military
craft like the Wildcat."
"Good..." Anthony said, turning back towards T-Bone. "That should take care of your co-pilot,
T-Bone. In fact, I think I should bring someone else now to fill that extra seat..."
"Who?" T-Bone asked.
Anthony turned towards Amy and asked, "Amy...could you get Chuckles? I'm sure she'd want to
visit her brother."
"Sure...but I think we should wait..."
Anthony sensed something familiar in Amy. "Wait? May I ask..."
Before he finished his question he heard Tails yell, "NO, NOT AGAIN!" and saw Chuckles and
Cleo chasing him again.
Anthony shook his head at this. "Oh for the love of...CLEO, CHUCKLES, LEAVE THE 'HEARTBREAK
KIT' ALONE!"
The two stopped chasing Tails and walked up to Anthony. Chuckles then said, "Aw...you're no
fun!"
"Sorry 'bout that, but you really should show a fellow descendant like myself SOME respect.
Now...Chuckles, I've got an extra seat on the Wildcat for the trip to the Floating Island.
Interested in coming to visit your bro?"
"YEAH! Thanks Anthony! Uh...but why, I thought this was an official mission?"
"It is...but I figured I'd have a better chance of getting on Knux's good side by having as
many people friendly to him as possible come."
"Alright!"
"Um...Anth," T-Bone said with a note of concern, "you sure it's wise to take both these kids
along? Who knows what might happen if Packbell..."
"I realize that, T-Bone," Anthony said, "but I don't know how willing Knuckles will be to help
us, and I could use as much help as possible."
"Alright..." T-Bone said and then turned towards the group. "OK, the Wildcat's ready, so let's
MOVE OUT!"
T-Bone and Megaman took their respective seats in the cockpit while the rest of the group went
into the rear carrier section. Within minutes, the jet took off, it's destination, the
Floating Island.
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The flight to the Floating Island was uneventful, and the Wildcat's passengers were far beyond
bored. Sonic and Link kept busy by talking about their past exploits while FX was listening
with much interest. Both Amy and Chuckles, however, fell asleep and were both using Anthony as
a pillow. Anthony didn't mind, he was busy looking over the fanfiction printout and was
thumbing it nervously, hoping he wouldn't have to use it.
"Anthony," Link said, breaking the silence, "you seem nervous about that printout. Is it
really that intense?"
"Pretty much," Anthony replied. "It's apparently Knuckles's own thoughts and is pretty
depressing sounding. Chris even remarked how this was more depressing than he was when he
first came to Mobius."
"I find that hard to believe," FX said, turning towards Anthony. "Can we see it?"
Anthony nodded and handed the trio the printout. Within minutes they all had sullen looks on
their faces.
"Man..." Sonic said. "I stand corrected. If he really DOES feel like this, I would feel sorry
for the guy..."
"No kidding," FX said. "Let's hope you don't have to use it."
"Use what?" Chuckles asked, as she and Amy were waking up.
"Oh, this printout I got from Earth," Anthony explained.
"Can we see?" Amy asked.
Anthony hesitated to respond, unsure how Chuckles might react. The printout WAS about her
brother...
"C'mon, Anthony!"
Anthony nodded and Sonic handed the girls the printout. After reading it, both girls had sad
looks on their faces. Amy was only slightly teary-eyed, but Chuckles was fully crying.
"That *sniff* was so sad!" Amy said, regaining her composure. "Do you really need to show him
that?"
Chuckles eventually regained her composure and said, "No WAY is he showing my brother that! If
my brother does feel like that, he would be even more upset after reading that!"
"That's..." Anthony said, turned towards the beleaguered echidna, "why I'm hoping I DON'T have
to use it. Hopefully you two will convince him to help."
"I'll try my best," Chuckles said, calming down a bit. "He may be hard headed, but he IS my
brother."
"Good, then we may have a chance yet..."
"We're approaching the Floating Island guys," T-Bone said over the intercom. "Get ready to
disembark. Make sure your tray tables are in the full upright position and make sure all carry
on baggage is securely stowed."
"Oh God..." Anthony said, shaking his head, "if he used to work for Delta, we may be over
Newark instead of the Floating Island..."
"I'll PRETEND I didn't hear that Anth..."
"Just kidding, T-Bone!" Anthony said, as the rest of the passengers giggled. "Wait a
minute...how DID he hear that?"
"I was just about to acknowledge him and had the intercom button pressed when you said that,"
FX replied.
"Just my luck..."
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The Wildcat landed a distance from the Master Emerald and its passengers disembarked. As they
walked towards the Emerald, they saw what looked like a welcoming committee of five
individuals. Anthony recognized them as the Chaotix, and Chuckles ran up to their leader.
"Big bro!" Chuckles said, hugging the leader. "Miss me?"
"Definitely," Knuckles said, hugging his sister back. "But, how did you get here? I
thought...oh, there's FX and T-Bone, I guess you came from the Wildcat..." His grin turned
into a scowl when he saw Sonic. "Oh...you brought HIM..." He then focused on the rest of the
group and was shocked at the sight of two of them. "What the...a human...? And a...HYLIAN?!?
What's going on here?"
Amy walked up to Knuckles to make the necessary introductions. "Big news, Knuckles. The human
is Anthony Bault, descendant of Sir Eric. These others are Megaman from Neo-Earth and Link
from Hylas, Sonic's counterparts from their worlds."
Knuckles focused his gaze on Anthony and gave him a once over. "Really? I find it hard to
believe this accountant is the next Gamemaster..."
The entire Knothole group went "Uh oh" as Anthony bristled from being called an accountant
again. Anthony was thinking he SHOULD show him the fanfic just for calling him that, but
regained his composure and talked to Knuckles. "Looks aren't everything Knuckles...I am of Sir
Eric's blood and I need your help."
"What KIND of help?" Knuckles said, still suspicious.
"I was told this island was originally in the location where the portal to Gardenia is located.
It's the last portal I need to open to bring some in more help to fight Robotnik. Would you be
willing to move the island back to that location?"
"So it can be subjected to possible attack while you open it?" Knuckles said. "Forget it!"
"C'mon brother," Chuckles said, "the Freedom Fighters could use your help. Are you that
worried about the Master Emerald?"
"Yes, and as my sister you should know the importance of that emerald to this island. That's
why I cannot take any risks."
"Knuckles," Amy said, "you trust me don't you?" Knuckles nodded. "Then believe me when I say
these guys are good people and won't put your precious emerald in any risk. This is especially
true for Anthony here. We need your help!"
"Perhaps...but I cannot take that risk. Besides," Knuckles said, shooting a glance towards
Sonic, "trouble usually follows HIM, so that makes me even more skeptical."
Sonic clenched his fists at that remark, but Anthony told him to calm down. Realizing Amy's
and Chuckles's comments weren't going to work, he then spoke to his group. "Guys, better let me
talk to him alone. With everyone here, it might cause unnecessary pressure."
"OK, Anth," T-Bone said, "We'll wait at the Wildcat. Wave us down when you need us back."
Anthony nodded, and watched as the group walked back to the jet. He then turned towards the
Chaotix. "Guys, can I talk to your leader alone?"
Mighty and Vector gave confused looks towards each other while Espio turned towards Knuckles
for an answer. "It's alright," Knuckles said, "I'll see what he has to say." Knuckles then
turned towards Anthony. "Come, we'll talk in the emerald chamber."
"You...trust me enough to take me there?"
"You seem trustworthy enough...anyone who reproaches Sonic like you did is worthy of my
attention."
The two walked towards the emerald chamber with the Chaotix watching them. Vector turned
towards the rest of the Chaotix and asked, "Hey guys...you think this human is on the level?
Is he really the Gamemaster?"
"Who knows?" Charmy said. "But Knuckles seems to trust him enough, and that's probably his
guardian powers giving him insight."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Alright, Anthony," Knuckles said, taking a position near where the Chaos Emeralds were
located, "what did you want to talk to me about?"
"I was just curious about something and I didn't want to talk about this in front of the
others. Namely...why are you acting like this?"
"Like what?"
"Obsessed. I understand your need to protect this island and the Emeralds...but to turn on
those who are technically your allies and some of whom want to be your friends?"
"You don't understand...these Emeralds, in fact the ancient technology of this island, are one
of a kind and very powerful. If they were to fall in the wrong hands, the effects would be
devastating. I've almost had that happen before with the emeralds, partially because of that
hedgehog you call a 'friend', and I don't want to see it happen again."
"That was probably just an accident, Knux. You have no guarantee of what will happen regarding
this technology, you're just assuming that doing nothing will ensure the safety, when in
reality the danger is equal no matter what you do."
"What makes you so sure? You seem...inexperienced...for a hero."
"Perhaps...but I've seen a lot of things in my 26 years of life. One thing I've learned is you
cannot make assumptions based on a single occurrence, more likely than not that event is just a
deviation from the norm."
"Hmmm..." Knuckled furled his brow at Anthony's words. "You seem to have some wisdom in that
psionic using cranium of yours. Unfortunately, I cannot risk this island and the Emeralds just
on your words as Sir Eric's descendant."
"Knuckles...you cannot just turn your back on us. We're fighting to save this world and..."
"This island is my world...and my only concern! I'm sorry..."
"No, you're not...you're just using your duty as an excuse to stay uninvolved!" Anthony's
anger was beginning to show.
"Now, wait just a damn minute..."
"No, Knuckles, you are going to LISTEN! There are people taking great risks to stop Robotnik,
people who are dying or being roboticized in their cause. We came to you for help to find a
way to end this conflict once and for all, and YOU, claiming duty for your guardianship, feel
that that duty gives you a reason to turn your back on your allies! Tell me...do you think
they're just going to understand and accept that attitude?"
"Yes, they know what..."
"No they're NOT, Knuckles! They are most likely going to turn their backs on you in turn
because you want them to stay away, even when you need THEIR help!"
"That's not true! Sally would never let..."
"Oh really? Take a look at this," Anthony said, producing the printout. "This is a fanfic
from my world, based on you, that will show what is most likely going to happen if you continue
to act like you are doing now. I didn't want to have to show it...but maybe you need to open
your eyes to what's really important before you let your duty take over your very being."
Knuckles took the piece of paper from Anthony's hand and began to read it. Anthony then ran
out of the Emerald Chamber and flagged down Mighty.
"Mighty, do you know where Julie-Su is?"
"Yes, why?"
"Get her, and hurry!"
"Why? What did you say to Knux?"
"Nothing...but it's what I just gave him that might cause a reaction."
"What did you do?!? If you hurt him..."
"Not that! I didn't do anything like that! Just get Julie-Su, you'll see once you get back."
Mighty rushed off to get Julie-Su, and Anthony went to get Chuckles. Within minutes, both of
them arrived at the Emerald Chamber with their respective charges.
"What's going on?" Julie-Su asked. "Is something wrong with Knuckles?"
"Not sure," Mighty said, turning towards Anthony. "Why don't you ask HIM?"
Chuckles looked up at Anthony and noticed the printout was not in his possession. "You GAVE
him that...that...HOW COULD YOU?!?"
Before Anthony could answer, a cry could be heard from the chamber.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!"
Anthony, Julie-Su, and Chuckles ran into the chamber and saw Knuckles kneeling on the floor of
it. The fanfic printout was ripped in half out of anger and despair and Knuckles was showing
his sorrow in the form of heavy sobbing. Chuckles and Julie-Su ran up to comfort Knuckles, and
Chuckles gave Anthony an angry glance as she ran.
"Forgotten..." Knuckles said softly, in shock of what he just read. "These...are my real
thoughts...how?"
"The latent powers of my race," Anthony explained, "allowed that fanfic's author to see those
thoughts. I didn't want to show you that, but...what your thoughts say you don't want to
happen my actually happen if you act like you are doing and push your friends and allies away.
After all...even when you are gone, as long as you have friends who remember you, you will
never be forgotten."
"Then," Knuckles said, calming down a bit, "this fate can be avoided?"
"Yes," Anthony said, "The Freedom Fighters are good people who want to be your friends, Knux.
Yes, even Sonic, even the other heroes from the other worlds...even me. You just have to do
the one thing you seem incapable of doing...trust."
"Trust?" Knuckles said, wiping his eyes. "After Robotnik tricking me several times before, I
don't know if I can..."
"You trusted me when I left the Dark Legion," Julie-Su said, trying to calm down Knuckles.
"You have it in you to trust them as well."
"H-how?"
Anthony extended his hand in friendship towards Knuckles. "This is a start."
Knuckles observed the gesture and, standing up, shook the human's hand in friendship. He then
got up and walked towards the exit. "Come, we have to go to the Master Emerald to do what
needs to be done."
As the four of them started to leave, Chuckles stopped Anthony dead in his tracks and gave him
a stern look. "Anthony...if you EVER upset my brother like that again I'll sic Julie-Su on you
and make you wish you never came to Mobius!"
Anthony could tell she meant it, remembering other fanfic and comic book storylines where the
Chaotix were afraid of Julie using them for target practice during Knuckles's absences...
The next morning, Anthony awoke early to get ready for the trek to the Floating Island. After
getting dressed, he found Sally, Sonia, and Zelda having breakfast in the mess hall and greeted
them. As he got himself a cup of coffee from a pot that was on one of the tables, he sensed
that the three of them were looking at him, and sensed strong feelings of admiration coming
from them. He had a feeling what this was about...
"Let me guess...either Amy or Link told you about last night and that's why you're looking at
me like that."
"On the nose, Anthony," Sally said. "Amy told us what happened during her singing and how you
comforted her afterwards. That was very sweet of you to comfort her like that. You...seemed
to know what she was going through..."
"I read the comic book storylines...how she lost her family the same way Tails did, poor kid.
She's just acting towards me the same way Tails does by calling you 'Aunt', Sal...she sees me
as family. I guess being together here as freedom fighters, you kind of consider yourselves
one big family, correct?"
"Something like that," Sonia said. "But...I think there more to it than that with Amy. I
think she really does love you like real family, Anthony."
"Man..." Anthony said, now realizing the gravity of the situation. "This...could be tough
then. How can I get her to stop without hurting her feelings. I mean...if we were to find her
real family..."
"No doubt you'll cross that bridge when you get to it, Anthony," Zelda said. "In the meantime,
you should let her see you as family. Sally tells me she's never seen Amy happier until after
you came!"
"Alright then, I guess I can handle it...now, let's talk business. Floating Island. Sal, can
the Wildcat take me and whoever I bring there?"
"It should, if you bring no more than six including yourself. Who were you going to bring?"
"Let's see...naturally T-Bone since he's the pilot...FX for his fire abilities, just in case
Koopa shows up at the portal to cause trouble...Link, Megaman, and Sonic should come too,
seeing the heroes of five worlds together could spark some general morale all around."
"You're going to bring Sonic?" Sally said, puzzled. "But..."
"I know Sal, he and Knux don't get along. But, hopefully the printout I got should change his
attitude, if it becomes necessary. Still...it might help if I bring someone friendly to Knux
to ease the situation. Anyone here on goods terms with him?"
Sonia smiled slightly at what Anthony asked and said, "Well, Sally here is on good terms with
him...though in the same way that Sonic is on good terms with Sally, if you know what I
mean..."
"I SEE, yes...well, I don't want to start a jealousy based fistfight so...anyone else?"
"Just one," Sonia said, widening her smile. "Amy Rose, who is obviously on great terms with
you. She lived on the Floating Island for a while and has established something of a
relationship with Knuckles. That, and the fact that she's friends with his kid sister
Chuckles."
"Hmmm...that COULD work, but her feelings towards me..."
"Might just be needed to ensure Knuckles's on good terms with you," Sally interjected. "Since
she's friends to you both, she might help form a connection."
"Alright, I'll tell her she's in then. She up yet?"
"Yes...and I saw her in the kitchen earlier..."
Almost on cue, Amy came out with a tray that had a breakfast arranged on it. She seemed
disappointed when she saw Anthony there...
"Aw...man! I was going to bring you breakfast in bed, Anthony!"
"Amy...you DIDN'T need to do that. After all the resting I did yesterday I don't need to
continue being lazy. I appreciate the gesture though..."
"Thank you," Amy said, setting the tray in front of where Anthony was sitting down. "At least
you still get to enjoy it."
"Indeed," Anthony said, digging into the breakfast served to him. "By the way, Amy, since I
hear you're on friendly terms with Knuckles I was considering bringing you along when I went to
the floating island. Interested?" Anthony soon found himself receiving a massive hug from the
young hedgehog and said, "I'll take that as a yes!" The other three ladies at the table
giggled at the sight of this.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T-Bone was readying the Wildcat for takeoff while the rest of the group gathered. He seemed
miffed about something...
"Anth, I'm going to be short a co-pilot. Davie just said he'd be unable to come because he's
doing a courier run at Minoc."
"Not a problem, T-Bone," Anthony said, then turning towards Megaman. "Mega, are you familiar
with piloting any type of aircraft?"
"Most of them...it was programmed into me as an emergency procedure. That includes military
craft like the Wildcat."
"Good..." Anthony said, turning back towards T-Bone. "That should take care of your co-pilot,
T-Bone. In fact, I think I should bring someone else now to fill that extra seat..."
"Who?" T-Bone asked.
Anthony turned towards Amy and asked, "Amy...could you get Chuckles? I'm sure she'd want to
visit her brother."
"Sure...but I think we should wait..."
Anthony sensed something familiar in Amy. "Wait? May I ask..."
Before he finished his question he heard Tails yell, "NO, NOT AGAIN!" and saw Chuckles and
Cleo chasing him again.
Anthony shook his head at this. "Oh for the love of...CLEO, CHUCKLES, LEAVE THE 'HEARTBREAK
KIT' ALONE!"
The two stopped chasing Tails and walked up to Anthony. Chuckles then said, "Aw...you're no
fun!"
"Sorry 'bout that, but you really should show a fellow descendant like myself SOME respect.
Now...Chuckles, I've got an extra seat on the Wildcat for the trip to the Floating Island.
Interested in coming to visit your bro?"
"YEAH! Thanks Anthony! Uh...but why, I thought this was an official mission?"
"It is...but I figured I'd have a better chance of getting on Knux's good side by having as
many people friendly to him as possible come."
"Alright!"
"Um...Anth," T-Bone said with a note of concern, "you sure it's wise to take both these kids
along? Who knows what might happen if Packbell..."
"I realize that, T-Bone," Anthony said, "but I don't know how willing Knuckles will be to help
us, and I could use as much help as possible."
"Alright..." T-Bone said and then turned towards the group. "OK, the Wildcat's ready, so let's
MOVE OUT!"
T-Bone and Megaman took their respective seats in the cockpit while the rest of the group went
into the rear carrier section. Within minutes, the jet took off, it's destination, the
Floating Island.
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The flight to the Floating Island was uneventful, and the Wildcat's passengers were far beyond
bored. Sonic and Link kept busy by talking about their past exploits while FX was listening
with much interest. Both Amy and Chuckles, however, fell asleep and were both using Anthony as
a pillow. Anthony didn't mind, he was busy looking over the fanfiction printout and was
thumbing it nervously, hoping he wouldn't have to use it.
"Anthony," Link said, breaking the silence, "you seem nervous about that printout. Is it
really that intense?"
"Pretty much," Anthony replied. "It's apparently Knuckles's own thoughts and is pretty
depressing sounding. Chris even remarked how this was more depressing than he was when he
first came to Mobius."
"I find that hard to believe," FX said, turning towards Anthony. "Can we see it?"
Anthony nodded and handed the trio the printout. Within minutes they all had sullen looks on
their faces.
"Man..." Sonic said. "I stand corrected. If he really DOES feel like this, I would feel sorry
for the guy..."
"No kidding," FX said. "Let's hope you don't have to use it."
"Use what?" Chuckles asked, as she and Amy were waking up.
"Oh, this printout I got from Earth," Anthony explained.
"Can we see?" Amy asked.
Anthony hesitated to respond, unsure how Chuckles might react. The printout WAS about her
brother...
"C'mon, Anthony!"
Anthony nodded and Sonic handed the girls the printout. After reading it, both girls had sad
looks on their faces. Amy was only slightly teary-eyed, but Chuckles was fully crying.
"That *sniff* was so sad!" Amy said, regaining her composure. "Do you really need to show him
that?"
Chuckles eventually regained her composure and said, "No WAY is he showing my brother that! If
my brother does feel like that, he would be even more upset after reading that!"
"That's..." Anthony said, turned towards the beleaguered echidna, "why I'm hoping I DON'T have
to use it. Hopefully you two will convince him to help."
"I'll try my best," Chuckles said, calming down a bit. "He may be hard headed, but he IS my
brother."
"Good, then we may have a chance yet..."
"We're approaching the Floating Island guys," T-Bone said over the intercom. "Get ready to
disembark. Make sure your tray tables are in the full upright position and make sure all carry
on baggage is securely stowed."
"Oh God..." Anthony said, shaking his head, "if he used to work for Delta, we may be over
Newark instead of the Floating Island..."
"I'll PRETEND I didn't hear that Anth..."
"Just kidding, T-Bone!" Anthony said, as the rest of the passengers giggled. "Wait a
minute...how DID he hear that?"
"I was just about to acknowledge him and had the intercom button pressed when you said that,"
FX replied.
"Just my luck..."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Wildcat landed a distance from the Master Emerald and its passengers disembarked. As they
walked towards the Emerald, they saw what looked like a welcoming committee of five
individuals. Anthony recognized them as the Chaotix, and Chuckles ran up to their leader.
"Big bro!" Chuckles said, hugging the leader. "Miss me?"
"Definitely," Knuckles said, hugging his sister back. "But, how did you get here? I
thought...oh, there's FX and T-Bone, I guess you came from the Wildcat..." His grin turned
into a scowl when he saw Sonic. "Oh...you brought HIM..." He then focused on the rest of the
group and was shocked at the sight of two of them. "What the...a human...? And a...HYLIAN?!?
What's going on here?"
Amy walked up to Knuckles to make the necessary introductions. "Big news, Knuckles. The human
is Anthony Bault, descendant of Sir Eric. These others are Megaman from Neo-Earth and Link
from Hylas, Sonic's counterparts from their worlds."
Knuckles focused his gaze on Anthony and gave him a once over. "Really? I find it hard to
believe this accountant is the next Gamemaster..."
The entire Knothole group went "Uh oh" as Anthony bristled from being called an accountant
again. Anthony was thinking he SHOULD show him the fanfic just for calling him that, but
regained his composure and talked to Knuckles. "Looks aren't everything Knuckles...I am of Sir
Eric's blood and I need your help."
"What KIND of help?" Knuckles said, still suspicious.
"I was told this island was originally in the location where the portal to Gardenia is located.
It's the last portal I need to open to bring some in more help to fight Robotnik. Would you be
willing to move the island back to that location?"
"So it can be subjected to possible attack while you open it?" Knuckles said. "Forget it!"
"C'mon brother," Chuckles said, "the Freedom Fighters could use your help. Are you that
worried about the Master Emerald?"
"Yes, and as my sister you should know the importance of that emerald to this island. That's
why I cannot take any risks."
"Knuckles," Amy said, "you trust me don't you?" Knuckles nodded. "Then believe me when I say
these guys are good people and won't put your precious emerald in any risk. This is especially
true for Anthony here. We need your help!"
"Perhaps...but I cannot take that risk. Besides," Knuckles said, shooting a glance towards
Sonic, "trouble usually follows HIM, so that makes me even more skeptical."
Sonic clenched his fists at that remark, but Anthony told him to calm down. Realizing Amy's
and Chuckles's comments weren't going to work, he then spoke to his group. "Guys, better let me
talk to him alone. With everyone here, it might cause unnecessary pressure."
"OK, Anth," T-Bone said, "We'll wait at the Wildcat. Wave us down when you need us back."
Anthony nodded, and watched as the group walked back to the jet. He then turned towards the
Chaotix. "Guys, can I talk to your leader alone?"
Mighty and Vector gave confused looks towards each other while Espio turned towards Knuckles
for an answer. "It's alright," Knuckles said, "I'll see what he has to say." Knuckles then
turned towards Anthony. "Come, we'll talk in the emerald chamber."
"You...trust me enough to take me there?"
"You seem trustworthy enough...anyone who reproaches Sonic like you did is worthy of my
attention."
The two walked towards the emerald chamber with the Chaotix watching them. Vector turned
towards the rest of the Chaotix and asked, "Hey guys...you think this human is on the level?
Is he really the Gamemaster?"
"Who knows?" Charmy said. "But Knuckles seems to trust him enough, and that's probably his
guardian powers giving him insight."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Alright, Anthony," Knuckles said, taking a position near where the Chaos Emeralds were
located, "what did you want to talk to me about?"
"I was just curious about something and I didn't want to talk about this in front of the
others. Namely...why are you acting like this?"
"Like what?"
"Obsessed. I understand your need to protect this island and the Emeralds...but to turn on
those who are technically your allies and some of whom want to be your friends?"
"You don't understand...these Emeralds, in fact the ancient technology of this island, are one
of a kind and very powerful. If they were to fall in the wrong hands, the effects would be
devastating. I've almost had that happen before with the emeralds, partially because of that
hedgehog you call a 'friend', and I don't want to see it happen again."
"That was probably just an accident, Knux. You have no guarantee of what will happen regarding
this technology, you're just assuming that doing nothing will ensure the safety, when in
reality the danger is equal no matter what you do."
"What makes you so sure? You seem...inexperienced...for a hero."
"Perhaps...but I've seen a lot of things in my 26 years of life. One thing I've learned is you
cannot make assumptions based on a single occurrence, more likely than not that event is just a
deviation from the norm."
"Hmmm..." Knuckled furled his brow at Anthony's words. "You seem to have some wisdom in that
psionic using cranium of yours. Unfortunately, I cannot risk this island and the Emeralds just
on your words as Sir Eric's descendant."
"Knuckles...you cannot just turn your back on us. We're fighting to save this world and..."
"This island is my world...and my only concern! I'm sorry..."
"No, you're not...you're just using your duty as an excuse to stay uninvolved!" Anthony's
anger was beginning to show.
"Now, wait just a damn minute..."
"No, Knuckles, you are going to LISTEN! There are people taking great risks to stop Robotnik,
people who are dying or being roboticized in their cause. We came to you for help to find a
way to end this conflict once and for all, and YOU, claiming duty for your guardianship, feel
that that duty gives you a reason to turn your back on your allies! Tell me...do you think
they're just going to understand and accept that attitude?"
"Yes, they know what..."
"No they're NOT, Knuckles! They are most likely going to turn their backs on you in turn
because you want them to stay away, even when you need THEIR help!"
"That's not true! Sally would never let..."
"Oh really? Take a look at this," Anthony said, producing the printout. "This is a fanfic
from my world, based on you, that will show what is most likely going to happen if you continue
to act like you are doing now. I didn't want to have to show it...but maybe you need to open
your eyes to what's really important before you let your duty take over your very being."
Knuckles took the piece of paper from Anthony's hand and began to read it. Anthony then ran
out of the Emerald Chamber and flagged down Mighty.
"Mighty, do you know where Julie-Su is?"
"Yes, why?"
"Get her, and hurry!"
"Why? What did you say to Knux?"
"Nothing...but it's what I just gave him that might cause a reaction."
"What did you do?!? If you hurt him..."
"Not that! I didn't do anything like that! Just get Julie-Su, you'll see once you get back."
Mighty rushed off to get Julie-Su, and Anthony went to get Chuckles. Within minutes, both of
them arrived at the Emerald Chamber with their respective charges.
"What's going on?" Julie-Su asked. "Is something wrong with Knuckles?"
"Not sure," Mighty said, turning towards Anthony. "Why don't you ask HIM?"
Chuckles looked up at Anthony and noticed the printout was not in his possession. "You GAVE
him that...that...HOW COULD YOU?!?"
Before Anthony could answer, a cry could be heard from the chamber.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!"
Anthony, Julie-Su, and Chuckles ran into the chamber and saw Knuckles kneeling on the floor of
it. The fanfic printout was ripped in half out of anger and despair and Knuckles was showing
his sorrow in the form of heavy sobbing. Chuckles and Julie-Su ran up to comfort Knuckles, and
Chuckles gave Anthony an angry glance as she ran.
"Forgotten..." Knuckles said softly, in shock of what he just read. "These...are my real
thoughts...how?"
"The latent powers of my race," Anthony explained, "allowed that fanfic's author to see those
thoughts. I didn't want to show you that, but...what your thoughts say you don't want to
happen my actually happen if you act like you are doing and push your friends and allies away.
After all...even when you are gone, as long as you have friends who remember you, you will
never be forgotten."
"Then," Knuckles said, calming down a bit, "this fate can be avoided?"
"Yes," Anthony said, "The Freedom Fighters are good people who want to be your friends, Knux.
Yes, even Sonic, even the other heroes from the other worlds...even me. You just have to do
the one thing you seem incapable of doing...trust."
"Trust?" Knuckles said, wiping his eyes. "After Robotnik tricking me several times before, I
don't know if I can..."
"You trusted me when I left the Dark Legion," Julie-Su said, trying to calm down Knuckles.
"You have it in you to trust them as well."
"H-how?"
Anthony extended his hand in friendship towards Knuckles. "This is a start."
Knuckles observed the gesture and, standing up, shook the human's hand in friendship. He then
got up and walked towards the exit. "Come, we have to go to the Master Emerald to do what
needs to be done."
As the four of them started to leave, Chuckles stopped Anthony dead in his tracks and gave him
a stern look. "Anthony...if you EVER upset my brother like that again I'll sic Julie-Su on you
and make you wish you never came to Mobius!"
Anthony could tell she meant it, remembering other fanfic and comic book storylines where the
Chaotix were afraid of Julie using them for target practice during Knuckles's absences...