Author's Note: To this day I still don't' see how I've gotten this far. I
hope you guys are enjoying this as much as I am! Thank you to Rock Chick
and Joe for their reviews!
Chapter 8: They all come together
***Story***
Night fell upon the Mystic Ruins, the snowy clouds giving away to bright starry skies. Nocturnal animals made their presence known, as they lurked about their daily duties of hunting and living. Shadow had finally awoken from his long nightmare filled sleep, and he too, lurked about, not caring where he went or how long he traveled. Hover shoes traveled lightly, and the era of authority seemed to flow through him as he continued on. Should anyone stand in his way, they would be either seriously injured or simply knocked out the way. He moved like a phantom, silent and deadly. Red eyes blazed as he checked his turf. The smirk that found its way to his face seemed to dare a trespasser to cross his borders. But there was nothing, and the air was very still. Stroking one of his crimson streaked quills, he decided to give up scanning and just walk on aimlessly. Things hadn't been as peaceful as they seemed to be however, and Shadow knew it. It was like he could sense it. He hadn't heard from Sonic or any of the now called Freedom Fighters, nor did anyone ever come looking for him. Shadow had figured everyone would be out on a wild goose chase, looking for the hedgehog who had miraculously survived, but it was not so. It was quiet, too quiet.
A feminine voice with a hint of concern broke him from his train of thought. "Hey are you ok?" Melody came from behind a tree, her aqua green coat bathed in the chrome light of the crescent moon that hung in the starry heavens. Her emerald eyes seemed to glow, rich, and soft, like a dove. Shadow was a bit surprised by her sudden entrance, and to his amazement, he wasn't very annoyed to see her.
"I'm fine, but I was wondering what you are still doing here? I thought I told you one night only."
Melody's look of concern changed to a look of sadness. She had grown attached to this little piece of land, and the thought of leaving it didn't go to well with her. Shadow, noticing her change of expression, turned his head away, it reminded him to much of Maria.
"I suppose you may stay...." said the shadowy creature, black fur ruffling gently in a stray breeze. "Only if you tell no one of this place, or that I am here, other wise, I will make it the last mistake you've ever made." His voice had grown in serious, but if you listened hard enough, it did sound kind of forced. Melody smiled weakly. "You have my word..but can I know your name?" Shadow closed his eyes, thinking back to when he first uttered his name, Shadow. Facing her, his facial expression somewhat softer than it was before, he stared for a moment, then answered. "My name is Shadow, the world's ultimate life form." The green hedgehog gave Shadow a questioning look, but said nothing. Without another word, Shadow walked on, forgetting that Melody was even there.
Melody stood there for a few moments, but soon, she began to go on a little walk. "He seems so lost.like a tattered soul." She stopped and looked back at the now empty path. "There has to be more to him then a sinister anti- social hedgehog.there's got to be." Curiosity finally drew her to follow him, as the oil colored hedgehog headed toward the same large hill he had spotted Mel on. Shadow however, was still deep in thought, his ever-clouded mind whirling around like a tornado, demanding answers but finding none. He came to the peak of the lush green hill, and settled on its top. Looking at the moon, he closed his eyes, and allowed himself to rest and gather his thoughts. Melody stood at the base, watching quietly and being careful so she wouldn't be noticed. Shadow, in a way, wished he was back on the Space Colony. It was so simple, he had what he wanted, and could watch the world below, turning daily.
"Maria." He thought aloud. "Was this my destiny? To live alone in turmoil? Can I only grieve for the rest of my life?" His head bowed, trying desperately to hold back the tears that were sure to come. Melody was crestfallen at the sight of Shadow like that. Her compassion was high, and she couldn't help but amble up the hill and come to his side. "Shadow." she said gently. Shadow was too heart broken at the moment to say anything, he was fighting his emotions with all his might. Melody settled beside him, and out of sheer compassion, put her arm around him. Shadow didn't know what to do or say, but that gesture was so comforting, he didn't feel so alone any more. Melody pulled him closer to her. "Shadow, I don't know what you face, but I do know what its like to be alone, to be created and not know where you stand. You've shown me a kindness that no one has ever shown me...I just want to help you." The red streaked hedgehog could no longer take it, tears began to flow freely from his red eyes. He leaned against Melody, no longer fighting the burning pain inside his soul. He cried and Melody held him, and even though she didn't know exactly was so tormenting, she could feel just how misery he was in. The "Sonic clone" held Shadow all night, until they both passed off to sleep. The moon and stars gave away to daylight, as the ball of fire known as the sun rose in the distance...
***Mystic Ruins Knothole***
The feeling of the Knothole was rather gloomy. News of Angel Island's destruction brought many people down in their hopes of ever winning against the cold-hearted Robotnik. Others thought this was a case of win or lose, and they better play to win, other wise the mad scientist would be the dictator forever, sharing power with no one, and oppressing all. Sonic was glad to come home to Amy that day, and she welcomed him with opened arms (and plenty of kisses). Tails went to his own place, where he didn't come out to often, the destruction of the Tornado had made him very angry, it was, after all, his true passion. The sun's light crept delicately into the huts of the sleeping Freedom Fighters, awakening some, annoying others. Sonic was the first to stir. He rose from his bed, blue quills a bit out of place due to him sleeping. Heading toward his wash room, he straightened himself out, and went on outside. Amy, was already awake, and she was out and about trying to cheer everyone up. But it seemed like the only thing she was accomplishing was pushing everyone's last nerve. The blue hedgehog went to Donovan's hut, then Strider's, and got them up, he had something to tell the residents today. Donovan and Strider had been a very welcoming addition to the Knothole, Vincent was more of a pacifier and a peace keeper. Whenever people were upset, he was always there to calm them down or re-build their spirit to fight. Sonic went into a very large hut, constructed for one thing, and one thing only, organization for battles and important meetings.
"Exactly what is on your mind Sonic?" Donovan asked.
"We need to move in on Eggman, we need to know exactly what he is up to, and counter his plans. That last attack nearly cost us precious jewel and our lives." Sonic replied.
Strider drew his sword and held it up in the air, its blade radiant in the morning light. "The Almighty help him should I find him vulnerable." He clenched his fist before putting it back in its sheath. "Curse that doctor."
"Round 'em all up guys, I think its time to plan our first raid on Robotropolis."
The 3 dispersed, and quickly gathered the residents. All came willingly, but none of them too eager, it was clear that the devastation of Eggman's last attack had taken a toll on their spirits as well. All came except one, Tails. "I'd better go lookin' for him, you guys all wait here." Everyone nodded and began to talk amongst themselves as Sonic left. Coming to Tail's hut, he knocked on the door. "Come in." said a sad voice. Sonic opened the door slowly, and peered inside. Tails sat at a desk, concentrating intently on something in front of him. His twin yellow tails where flicking up and down as usually. It was almost hypnotic if you stared at them to long. "Hey whats up lil' bro?" Sonic said walking in and peering over Tail's shoulder. In Tail's hands was a model of the Tornado 2, only it looked a little different and a bit more enhanced. It was blue with a lightning bolt on the side. "Is this what you have been working on?" Tails nodded. "I didn't realized how attached to that plane I was until Egg dork destroyed it, that's why I have been down lately, but I think my latest design will cure that soon." Sonic smiled, Tails was always designing or enhancing something, it had been his specialty ever since they had met. "Well I don't mean to bother you progress big guy, but we need to organize our raid against Robotnik." Tails's face lit up, he had been wanting to do something against Robotnik for awhile now. Rising from his perch, he followed Sonic back out of his hut and back into the "war room."
Sonic took his place at the head of the crowd, and together, they worked on a plan to raid Robotropolis for the first time. Using Nicole, they generated a rough image of the most accurate map they had of the city of steel. There would be 2 groups. One would pose as a distraction, while another would raid the city for any useful materials or information. Sonic himself would try to use Nicole to access the main computer and access any files, but he doubt that would be possible this time, they barely knew what they where up against besides a hell of a lot of swatbots.
"Then it's settled. Donovan, Strider, I'll leave the distraction up to you." Everyone nodded in agreement, no one objected. "Then lets go, on our first raid on Robotropolis, good luck everyone. We will meet when its dark, probably around 12. Yes I know that is very late, however, the more cover we have, the better." Everyone dispersed and readied themselves; tonight would be a busy one indeed. him ***Mystic Ruins Very secluded place ***
Shadow awakened only a few hours later, he had slept very deeply in Melody's arms, and that served him well. Red eyes opened to a clear day, with the sun in the skies. A bit of snow remained on the ground, but it wasn't significant, only about an inch or so. He pushed himself free from the still sleeping Melody's embrace, and stretched his limbs. He didn't really understand what happened last night, but he felt strangely calmer. Walking down the hill and into the forest, the sounds of small animals about could be heard clearly. He walked on for some time, and even though it was in complete circles around the island, he felt like he was somewhere new with each step. "You could've told me you where up." Said a sarcastic voice from behind. Shadow didn't even look back. "Hmph" he muttered. Melody, who awoken only a few minutes after Shadow stood behind him, hands on her hips. "I don't get you.." she calmly said, and she walked on passed him. Shadow managed to smile. "I can say the same for you." Melody walked on without another word. Shadow ceased smiling when a crackling noise of dry sticks and leaves caught his attention. Someone was on his turf. Quickly, he "skated" across the ground, his hover shoes carrying him at a descent speed. What he beheld next really confused him. A strange robot paced the grounds, as if lost. It torso was red and white, with E-102 written on the side.
One arm had a normal hand, on the other however, it held a gigantic laser gun. In the back floated a hover piece. Shadow followed him cautiously, as the robot droned something. "Location incorrect, must locate Station Square." It turned abruptly and began to walk away. Shadow, intrigued by this intruder followed it, not knowing Melody was behind him. She too had heard the noise and came to investigate. The strange robot lead Shadow and Melody far from their lands and through the jungle. It came to the now wrecked train area and followed the destroyed track to the steel city. Shadow was hot on its trail, but moved in such a way that E-102 didn't realize it was being followed. It came upon Robotropolis, and began to beep wildly. "Station Square located." It said. But then, it seemed confused again. "Subject: Amy Rose: Location undetermined, but not here." It droned. Shadow titled his head, why would the robot be interested in her? It continued on into the massive city, not knowing it had been detected. Shadow, mean while, was so wrapped in his thoughts, he didn't bother to follow the robot. Melody dropped to his side, startling the heck out of him. "Who was that..?" Shadow frowned. "You know its not wise to sneak up on me like that." Melody didn't say anything.
Meanwhile, Metal Sonic sat alone at the main computer console, glad to be away from Robotnik who was making repairs on his Egg globe. All of sudden, the machine began to beep. "Monitor on" A screen flashed right on, showing E-102. Metal Sonic had never seen him before, but from the looks of the design, it appeared to be his master's creation. Taking out his walky talky like pager, he signaled Robotnik.
"What is it?!"
"Sir, a strange robot has come into our area. I would eliminate it, but it looks like one of yours. Its circuitry isn't of the Swatbots or worker bots."
There was a period of silence.
"I'll be right there."
Metal Sonic continue to monitor, waiting for the doctor to show up.
Shadow had yet to set foot on the borders of Robotropolis. It didn't seem like a good idea, due to the fact that Sonic had almost been killed here. He decided to wait until nightfall. "Mel." Shadow said calmly. "Better not set foot in there just yet." Melody nodded. Shadow stared at her for a long time, and a feeling rose inside him, that he had never felt before. It was a strange sensation, the same one he felt when she had held him that depressing night. Whatever it was, he hadn't felt that way since...Maria. Shaking his head and pushing those thoughts to the far back of his mind, he continued his watch of the polluted city.
Dr. Robotnik finally came into the main control room and peered over Metal Sonic's shoulder. His eyes widened slightly at the sight of his old robot, but it his shocked face soon changed into a serious one. "Should I capture it?" Metal Sonic asked. Robotnik nodded. "I think I've found something to test this new program I've worked on. I discovered it while making repairs to the Egg globe. Electricity can be quite the weapon." Grinning deviously, he left, and to Metal Sonic's surprise, without so much as an insult. Pressing the alert button, he sent a fleet of Swatbots after the strange bot.
Needless to say, a fleet of Swatbots against a very confused robot wasn't much of a challenge. They brought the red bot in, and Metal Sonic and Robotnik examined him, checking him for bugs or tracking devises. E-102 took a moment to scan the room, but when he saw Robotnik, again he began to beep wildly. "Robotnik...enemy! Robotnik enemy!" It raised its laser in a flash, but just as it was about to fire, Metal Sonic deactivated it. "Fool.." muttered Robotnik as it slapped the metal frame of Gamma (E-102). Picking up the mechanical wonder, Robotnik turned to Metal Sonic. "Monitor the area as usual, while I'll install this new stuff, don't bother me, or I'll have to do something very unpleasant to you." Robotnik left the room. Metal Sonic kicked the bottom of the door. "Good riddance, creep." He went back to monitoring.
Nightfall finally spread across the area, covering Robotropolis in darkness. Monitor Swatbots patrolled the area, but none spotted Shadow, who's curiosity had sky rocketed over the passed few hours. There was a lot more Swatbots coming out now then there was in the morning. Finally, he could wait no longer. With Melody at his side, they carefully set foot in Robotropolis, exploring it, trying to figure just exactly what went on with that strange robot.
***Mystic Ruins Knothole***
The residents of Knothole had quickly gathered, and broke into their groups. Amy of course took Sonic's side, while the majority of them got on Donovan's and Strider's side. They would be the essential group of the plan, the longer they could keep Robotnik distracted, the longer Sonic had to try to access the control panel. Knuckles and Rouge decided not to attend, they rather protect the village of Knothole. Sonic stepped in front of the crowd. "Remember, this is a very dangerous mission, you all know what happened last time." This time, it was Tails who stepped forward. "Yes! But our freedom is worth it, Robotnik will fall someday!" A cheer rose from the crowd. "LETS DO IT!" Sonic yelled, The 2 large groups marched off to Robotropolis.
Robotnik returned, with a newly fashioned robot behind him. His laser had been replaced by a strange gun, and he had 2 on both hands. Metal Sonic stared curiously, while Robotnik only smiled. Gamma had been totally reprogrammed, and its main hard drive had been totally removed and replaced by another one, so Robotnik would have its complete loyalty. "Say hello to the immobolizer." Robotnik proudly said. "It has very special rope like wires in these guns, designed for one purpose, to totally paralyze the victim it grabs a hold. However, it will only paralyze completely from the neck down. IF it grabs the person by the throat." Metal Sonic smiled, it was rather impressive. All of sudden, the monitor beeped. "And it looks like you will be able to test it out right away sir." Robotnik smiled, Shadow had been spotted.
The night co9lored hedgehog moved through the city, taking the sights and sounds of the city. No swatbots had given him trouble just yet. Melody copied Shadow's every move, as to not put him in danger. They were so wrapped up in taking it all in, they didn't even notice the surveillance cameras recording their every move. Melody was a bit of a ways behind, so the cameras mainly concentrated on Shadow. "I don't see how all that chaos started with Sonic.." Shadow muttered. "It all seems so easy." Shadow, however, spoke to soon. "HEDGEHOG ALERT, YOU ARE AN INTRUDER!" shouted a strange voice. A lead swatbots followed by a fleet of 7 followers began to chase after Shadow. Melody fell back, and could only watch as Shadow spin dashed and evaded their laser blasts. Luckily for him, none had a roboticizer gun, Sonic had taken care of their last stash and more had to be made. Shadow moved as fast as his black legs could carry him. It was almost like a game to him, and he destroyed about 5 of the following bots. The leader commanded the last 2 to close on him. Shadow easily turned and spin dashed them into oblivion. He was having so much fun, he went straight for the lead bot, not noticing the immobolizer in the Shadows. Melody was to far behind to help him or warn him, but she saw the whole thing. Shadow leapt into the air, and was about to do a homing attack when he fired. The purple wire like lasso was laced with electricity, and it nailed Shadow, dead around his neck. Shadow all of sudden felt his whole body become numb, he fell from the air and landed with a hard thud. Robotnik almost danced with joy, he was watching it all through the camera. "Bring him in!!! NOW!" Melody shrieked in horror, and at that moment, Sonic and his crew just arrived. Not knowing what just happened, they moved in slowly. Melody was about to leap from her hiding place, when Shadow called out. "Melody NO!! GET OUT OF HERE! DON'T WORRY ABOUT ME, YOU CAN'T TAKE THEM ON ALONE!"
Melody couldn't hold back her tears as she watched them drag Shadow away. Sonic, who had just realized what happened, sped after the robots, his anger fierce at the sight of one of his friends being dragged away. However, he didn't make it before they where beamed away. "NOOO!" Sonic yelled. Picking up a destroyed swatbot's laser gun, he opened fire out of pure anger. So angry was he, he didn't even realize that a stray laser hit a an essential wire to Robotnik's roboticizer. "GET HIM, GET HIM NOW, SEND THEM ALL OUT THERE!" Robotnik was furious, now he couldn't gain a new robot until the roboticizer was repaired, and Shadow would certainly make a good addition. Swatbots came pouring out of the main area, and drove the Freedom Fighters, who were caught off guard, out of the city. Sonic spotted Melody running with them, but he said nothing, he only destroyed a few swatbots, and reluctantly retreated, he could only hope that Shadow was ok.
Back at Knothole, Melody was a wreck, and had to be held by several people to be stopped from plowing back to Robotropolis. Sonic was just as angry and worried, but he had learned by now not to just go back in there. Tails was working over time to figure out an emergency plan to help rescue Shadow, but it couldn't take effect until the security went down. It was night of hell for the Freedom Fighters..Shadow had been captured.
Chapter 8: They all come together
***Story***
Night fell upon the Mystic Ruins, the snowy clouds giving away to bright starry skies. Nocturnal animals made their presence known, as they lurked about their daily duties of hunting and living. Shadow had finally awoken from his long nightmare filled sleep, and he too, lurked about, not caring where he went or how long he traveled. Hover shoes traveled lightly, and the era of authority seemed to flow through him as he continued on. Should anyone stand in his way, they would be either seriously injured or simply knocked out the way. He moved like a phantom, silent and deadly. Red eyes blazed as he checked his turf. The smirk that found its way to his face seemed to dare a trespasser to cross his borders. But there was nothing, and the air was very still. Stroking one of his crimson streaked quills, he decided to give up scanning and just walk on aimlessly. Things hadn't been as peaceful as they seemed to be however, and Shadow knew it. It was like he could sense it. He hadn't heard from Sonic or any of the now called Freedom Fighters, nor did anyone ever come looking for him. Shadow had figured everyone would be out on a wild goose chase, looking for the hedgehog who had miraculously survived, but it was not so. It was quiet, too quiet.
A feminine voice with a hint of concern broke him from his train of thought. "Hey are you ok?" Melody came from behind a tree, her aqua green coat bathed in the chrome light of the crescent moon that hung in the starry heavens. Her emerald eyes seemed to glow, rich, and soft, like a dove. Shadow was a bit surprised by her sudden entrance, and to his amazement, he wasn't very annoyed to see her.
"I'm fine, but I was wondering what you are still doing here? I thought I told you one night only."
Melody's look of concern changed to a look of sadness. She had grown attached to this little piece of land, and the thought of leaving it didn't go to well with her. Shadow, noticing her change of expression, turned his head away, it reminded him to much of Maria.
"I suppose you may stay...." said the shadowy creature, black fur ruffling gently in a stray breeze. "Only if you tell no one of this place, or that I am here, other wise, I will make it the last mistake you've ever made." His voice had grown in serious, but if you listened hard enough, it did sound kind of forced. Melody smiled weakly. "You have my word..but can I know your name?" Shadow closed his eyes, thinking back to when he first uttered his name, Shadow. Facing her, his facial expression somewhat softer than it was before, he stared for a moment, then answered. "My name is Shadow, the world's ultimate life form." The green hedgehog gave Shadow a questioning look, but said nothing. Without another word, Shadow walked on, forgetting that Melody was even there.
Melody stood there for a few moments, but soon, she began to go on a little walk. "He seems so lost.like a tattered soul." She stopped and looked back at the now empty path. "There has to be more to him then a sinister anti- social hedgehog.there's got to be." Curiosity finally drew her to follow him, as the oil colored hedgehog headed toward the same large hill he had spotted Mel on. Shadow however, was still deep in thought, his ever-clouded mind whirling around like a tornado, demanding answers but finding none. He came to the peak of the lush green hill, and settled on its top. Looking at the moon, he closed his eyes, and allowed himself to rest and gather his thoughts. Melody stood at the base, watching quietly and being careful so she wouldn't be noticed. Shadow, in a way, wished he was back on the Space Colony. It was so simple, he had what he wanted, and could watch the world below, turning daily.
"Maria." He thought aloud. "Was this my destiny? To live alone in turmoil? Can I only grieve for the rest of my life?" His head bowed, trying desperately to hold back the tears that were sure to come. Melody was crestfallen at the sight of Shadow like that. Her compassion was high, and she couldn't help but amble up the hill and come to his side. "Shadow." she said gently. Shadow was too heart broken at the moment to say anything, he was fighting his emotions with all his might. Melody settled beside him, and out of sheer compassion, put her arm around him. Shadow didn't know what to do or say, but that gesture was so comforting, he didn't feel so alone any more. Melody pulled him closer to her. "Shadow, I don't know what you face, but I do know what its like to be alone, to be created and not know where you stand. You've shown me a kindness that no one has ever shown me...I just want to help you." The red streaked hedgehog could no longer take it, tears began to flow freely from his red eyes. He leaned against Melody, no longer fighting the burning pain inside his soul. He cried and Melody held him, and even though she didn't know exactly was so tormenting, she could feel just how misery he was in. The "Sonic clone" held Shadow all night, until they both passed off to sleep. The moon and stars gave away to daylight, as the ball of fire known as the sun rose in the distance...
***Mystic Ruins Knothole***
The feeling of the Knothole was rather gloomy. News of Angel Island's destruction brought many people down in their hopes of ever winning against the cold-hearted Robotnik. Others thought this was a case of win or lose, and they better play to win, other wise the mad scientist would be the dictator forever, sharing power with no one, and oppressing all. Sonic was glad to come home to Amy that day, and she welcomed him with opened arms (and plenty of kisses). Tails went to his own place, where he didn't come out to often, the destruction of the Tornado had made him very angry, it was, after all, his true passion. The sun's light crept delicately into the huts of the sleeping Freedom Fighters, awakening some, annoying others. Sonic was the first to stir. He rose from his bed, blue quills a bit out of place due to him sleeping. Heading toward his wash room, he straightened himself out, and went on outside. Amy, was already awake, and she was out and about trying to cheer everyone up. But it seemed like the only thing she was accomplishing was pushing everyone's last nerve. The blue hedgehog went to Donovan's hut, then Strider's, and got them up, he had something to tell the residents today. Donovan and Strider had been a very welcoming addition to the Knothole, Vincent was more of a pacifier and a peace keeper. Whenever people were upset, he was always there to calm them down or re-build their spirit to fight. Sonic went into a very large hut, constructed for one thing, and one thing only, organization for battles and important meetings.
"Exactly what is on your mind Sonic?" Donovan asked.
"We need to move in on Eggman, we need to know exactly what he is up to, and counter his plans. That last attack nearly cost us precious jewel and our lives." Sonic replied.
Strider drew his sword and held it up in the air, its blade radiant in the morning light. "The Almighty help him should I find him vulnerable." He clenched his fist before putting it back in its sheath. "Curse that doctor."
"Round 'em all up guys, I think its time to plan our first raid on Robotropolis."
The 3 dispersed, and quickly gathered the residents. All came willingly, but none of them too eager, it was clear that the devastation of Eggman's last attack had taken a toll on their spirits as well. All came except one, Tails. "I'd better go lookin' for him, you guys all wait here." Everyone nodded and began to talk amongst themselves as Sonic left. Coming to Tail's hut, he knocked on the door. "Come in." said a sad voice. Sonic opened the door slowly, and peered inside. Tails sat at a desk, concentrating intently on something in front of him. His twin yellow tails where flicking up and down as usually. It was almost hypnotic if you stared at them to long. "Hey whats up lil' bro?" Sonic said walking in and peering over Tail's shoulder. In Tail's hands was a model of the Tornado 2, only it looked a little different and a bit more enhanced. It was blue with a lightning bolt on the side. "Is this what you have been working on?" Tails nodded. "I didn't realized how attached to that plane I was until Egg dork destroyed it, that's why I have been down lately, but I think my latest design will cure that soon." Sonic smiled, Tails was always designing or enhancing something, it had been his specialty ever since they had met. "Well I don't mean to bother you progress big guy, but we need to organize our raid against Robotnik." Tails's face lit up, he had been wanting to do something against Robotnik for awhile now. Rising from his perch, he followed Sonic back out of his hut and back into the "war room."
Sonic took his place at the head of the crowd, and together, they worked on a plan to raid Robotropolis for the first time. Using Nicole, they generated a rough image of the most accurate map they had of the city of steel. There would be 2 groups. One would pose as a distraction, while another would raid the city for any useful materials or information. Sonic himself would try to use Nicole to access the main computer and access any files, but he doubt that would be possible this time, they barely knew what they where up against besides a hell of a lot of swatbots.
"Then it's settled. Donovan, Strider, I'll leave the distraction up to you." Everyone nodded in agreement, no one objected. "Then lets go, on our first raid on Robotropolis, good luck everyone. We will meet when its dark, probably around 12. Yes I know that is very late, however, the more cover we have, the better." Everyone dispersed and readied themselves; tonight would be a busy one indeed. him ***Mystic Ruins Very secluded place ***
Shadow awakened only a few hours later, he had slept very deeply in Melody's arms, and that served him well. Red eyes opened to a clear day, with the sun in the skies. A bit of snow remained on the ground, but it wasn't significant, only about an inch or so. He pushed himself free from the still sleeping Melody's embrace, and stretched his limbs. He didn't really understand what happened last night, but he felt strangely calmer. Walking down the hill and into the forest, the sounds of small animals about could be heard clearly. He walked on for some time, and even though it was in complete circles around the island, he felt like he was somewhere new with each step. "You could've told me you where up." Said a sarcastic voice from behind. Shadow didn't even look back. "Hmph" he muttered. Melody, who awoken only a few minutes after Shadow stood behind him, hands on her hips. "I don't get you.." she calmly said, and she walked on passed him. Shadow managed to smile. "I can say the same for you." Melody walked on without another word. Shadow ceased smiling when a crackling noise of dry sticks and leaves caught his attention. Someone was on his turf. Quickly, he "skated" across the ground, his hover shoes carrying him at a descent speed. What he beheld next really confused him. A strange robot paced the grounds, as if lost. It torso was red and white, with E-102 written on the side.
One arm had a normal hand, on the other however, it held a gigantic laser gun. In the back floated a hover piece. Shadow followed him cautiously, as the robot droned something. "Location incorrect, must locate Station Square." It turned abruptly and began to walk away. Shadow, intrigued by this intruder followed it, not knowing Melody was behind him. She too had heard the noise and came to investigate. The strange robot lead Shadow and Melody far from their lands and through the jungle. It came to the now wrecked train area and followed the destroyed track to the steel city. Shadow was hot on its trail, but moved in such a way that E-102 didn't realize it was being followed. It came upon Robotropolis, and began to beep wildly. "Station Square located." It said. But then, it seemed confused again. "Subject: Amy Rose: Location undetermined, but not here." It droned. Shadow titled his head, why would the robot be interested in her? It continued on into the massive city, not knowing it had been detected. Shadow, mean while, was so wrapped in his thoughts, he didn't bother to follow the robot. Melody dropped to his side, startling the heck out of him. "Who was that..?" Shadow frowned. "You know its not wise to sneak up on me like that." Melody didn't say anything.
Meanwhile, Metal Sonic sat alone at the main computer console, glad to be away from Robotnik who was making repairs on his Egg globe. All of sudden, the machine began to beep. "Monitor on" A screen flashed right on, showing E-102. Metal Sonic had never seen him before, but from the looks of the design, it appeared to be his master's creation. Taking out his walky talky like pager, he signaled Robotnik.
"What is it?!"
"Sir, a strange robot has come into our area. I would eliminate it, but it looks like one of yours. Its circuitry isn't of the Swatbots or worker bots."
There was a period of silence.
"I'll be right there."
Metal Sonic continue to monitor, waiting for the doctor to show up.
Shadow had yet to set foot on the borders of Robotropolis. It didn't seem like a good idea, due to the fact that Sonic had almost been killed here. He decided to wait until nightfall. "Mel." Shadow said calmly. "Better not set foot in there just yet." Melody nodded. Shadow stared at her for a long time, and a feeling rose inside him, that he had never felt before. It was a strange sensation, the same one he felt when she had held him that depressing night. Whatever it was, he hadn't felt that way since...Maria. Shaking his head and pushing those thoughts to the far back of his mind, he continued his watch of the polluted city.
Dr. Robotnik finally came into the main control room and peered over Metal Sonic's shoulder. His eyes widened slightly at the sight of his old robot, but it his shocked face soon changed into a serious one. "Should I capture it?" Metal Sonic asked. Robotnik nodded. "I think I've found something to test this new program I've worked on. I discovered it while making repairs to the Egg globe. Electricity can be quite the weapon." Grinning deviously, he left, and to Metal Sonic's surprise, without so much as an insult. Pressing the alert button, he sent a fleet of Swatbots after the strange bot.
Needless to say, a fleet of Swatbots against a very confused robot wasn't much of a challenge. They brought the red bot in, and Metal Sonic and Robotnik examined him, checking him for bugs or tracking devises. E-102 took a moment to scan the room, but when he saw Robotnik, again he began to beep wildly. "Robotnik...enemy! Robotnik enemy!" It raised its laser in a flash, but just as it was about to fire, Metal Sonic deactivated it. "Fool.." muttered Robotnik as it slapped the metal frame of Gamma (E-102). Picking up the mechanical wonder, Robotnik turned to Metal Sonic. "Monitor the area as usual, while I'll install this new stuff, don't bother me, or I'll have to do something very unpleasant to you." Robotnik left the room. Metal Sonic kicked the bottom of the door. "Good riddance, creep." He went back to monitoring.
Nightfall finally spread across the area, covering Robotropolis in darkness. Monitor Swatbots patrolled the area, but none spotted Shadow, who's curiosity had sky rocketed over the passed few hours. There was a lot more Swatbots coming out now then there was in the morning. Finally, he could wait no longer. With Melody at his side, they carefully set foot in Robotropolis, exploring it, trying to figure just exactly what went on with that strange robot.
***Mystic Ruins Knothole***
The residents of Knothole had quickly gathered, and broke into their groups. Amy of course took Sonic's side, while the majority of them got on Donovan's and Strider's side. They would be the essential group of the plan, the longer they could keep Robotnik distracted, the longer Sonic had to try to access the control panel. Knuckles and Rouge decided not to attend, they rather protect the village of Knothole. Sonic stepped in front of the crowd. "Remember, this is a very dangerous mission, you all know what happened last time." This time, it was Tails who stepped forward. "Yes! But our freedom is worth it, Robotnik will fall someday!" A cheer rose from the crowd. "LETS DO IT!" Sonic yelled, The 2 large groups marched off to Robotropolis.
Robotnik returned, with a newly fashioned robot behind him. His laser had been replaced by a strange gun, and he had 2 on both hands. Metal Sonic stared curiously, while Robotnik only smiled. Gamma had been totally reprogrammed, and its main hard drive had been totally removed and replaced by another one, so Robotnik would have its complete loyalty. "Say hello to the immobolizer." Robotnik proudly said. "It has very special rope like wires in these guns, designed for one purpose, to totally paralyze the victim it grabs a hold. However, it will only paralyze completely from the neck down. IF it grabs the person by the throat." Metal Sonic smiled, it was rather impressive. All of sudden, the monitor beeped. "And it looks like you will be able to test it out right away sir." Robotnik smiled, Shadow had been spotted.
The night co9lored hedgehog moved through the city, taking the sights and sounds of the city. No swatbots had given him trouble just yet. Melody copied Shadow's every move, as to not put him in danger. They were so wrapped up in taking it all in, they didn't even notice the surveillance cameras recording their every move. Melody was a bit of a ways behind, so the cameras mainly concentrated on Shadow. "I don't see how all that chaos started with Sonic.." Shadow muttered. "It all seems so easy." Shadow, however, spoke to soon. "HEDGEHOG ALERT, YOU ARE AN INTRUDER!" shouted a strange voice. A lead swatbots followed by a fleet of 7 followers began to chase after Shadow. Melody fell back, and could only watch as Shadow spin dashed and evaded their laser blasts. Luckily for him, none had a roboticizer gun, Sonic had taken care of their last stash and more had to be made. Shadow moved as fast as his black legs could carry him. It was almost like a game to him, and he destroyed about 5 of the following bots. The leader commanded the last 2 to close on him. Shadow easily turned and spin dashed them into oblivion. He was having so much fun, he went straight for the lead bot, not noticing the immobolizer in the Shadows. Melody was to far behind to help him or warn him, but she saw the whole thing. Shadow leapt into the air, and was about to do a homing attack when he fired. The purple wire like lasso was laced with electricity, and it nailed Shadow, dead around his neck. Shadow all of sudden felt his whole body become numb, he fell from the air and landed with a hard thud. Robotnik almost danced with joy, he was watching it all through the camera. "Bring him in!!! NOW!" Melody shrieked in horror, and at that moment, Sonic and his crew just arrived. Not knowing what just happened, they moved in slowly. Melody was about to leap from her hiding place, when Shadow called out. "Melody NO!! GET OUT OF HERE! DON'T WORRY ABOUT ME, YOU CAN'T TAKE THEM ON ALONE!"
Melody couldn't hold back her tears as she watched them drag Shadow away. Sonic, who had just realized what happened, sped after the robots, his anger fierce at the sight of one of his friends being dragged away. However, he didn't make it before they where beamed away. "NOOO!" Sonic yelled. Picking up a destroyed swatbot's laser gun, he opened fire out of pure anger. So angry was he, he didn't even realize that a stray laser hit a an essential wire to Robotnik's roboticizer. "GET HIM, GET HIM NOW, SEND THEM ALL OUT THERE!" Robotnik was furious, now he couldn't gain a new robot until the roboticizer was repaired, and Shadow would certainly make a good addition. Swatbots came pouring out of the main area, and drove the Freedom Fighters, who were caught off guard, out of the city. Sonic spotted Melody running with them, but he said nothing, he only destroyed a few swatbots, and reluctantly retreated, he could only hope that Shadow was ok.
Back at Knothole, Melody was a wreck, and had to be held by several people to be stopped from plowing back to Robotropolis. Sonic was just as angry and worried, but he had learned by now not to just go back in there. Tails was working over time to figure out an emergency plan to help rescue Shadow, but it couldn't take effect until the security went down. It was night of hell for the Freedom Fighters..Shadow had been captured.