The Confession of Truth and Double Lies
Chapter 7
Kimmie: Hi there! I'm so happy with this chapter; I really felt that I'm bringing out their personalities. Like, I actually got Shadow talking.sigh. I hope you enjoy it!
"MARIA, STOP! STOP! STOP!" Amy yelled, frantically. Rouge eyed her and sighed.
Maria looked down at the needle and thread she held in her hands and asked, "What am I doing wrong now?"
"Your stitches are too big! If you put the dress on it will fall apart." Amy groaned, "Here, let me do it." She took the dress and with the needle, unthreaded Maria's mistakes.
"Rouge sighed again and said, "I hope this won't take too much longer. We still have to buy our dresses."
"This is a worthy cause," Amy lectured, "Because it's for love."
"Huh?" Maria exclaimed, "How would you know about that?"
"Sorry, but I told Amy that you love Shadow." Rouge said.
"But I didn't tell you, how'd you know?" Maria blurted, blushing. She squeezed her hands together in frustration while looked at Amy's fingers work magic on the dress.
"I overheard you talking to yourself, Maria." Rouge said, laughing lightly. When Maria made a face, Rouge smiled and said, "Hey, you are lucky I heard you. If Shadow had ease dropped instead, well, I don't know what would have happened."
"You guys." Maria groaned. She knew it would be harder to tell Shadow everything now that she had them there to push her.
@--------------
"Hey, look who's picking out a tuxedo." Rouge purred over Amy's shoulder. She pointed to the kid's section of the department store to see Tails.
"Awww.how cute." Amy squealed.
Maria sweat dropped and said, "Don't you guys remember everyone is going to the dance? That includes Tails."
"Hey," Amy pointed out, "Since Tails is here, I bet the rest of the guys are in the men's department. Let's go see!"
"Good idea," Rouge added, "Knuckles doesn't have much sense when it comes to buying cloths; he is so gullible he'll end up paying three times the normal price."
Maria, not wanting to run into Shadow said, "Well, I'm going to see how Tails is doing. Good luck!" Maria walked across the store to the kid's department. On her way she almost tripped over a pile of socks that haven't been put on the shelves yet.
Tails noticed her coming and said, "Hi, Maria. Did you find a dress?"
"Yeah.well, I decided to make one for the dance. I'm just here to help Amy and Rouge look for their dresses." Maria said, blushing a bit.
"Did they have any luck?" Tails asked, while fingering a green tux.
"Lets see." Maria murmured, placing her hand under her chin. It was hard to recall where they started because they had been there so long. "Amy found this pink dress with a bunch of yellow pearls in the front. She still wants to look more but I think it looks really nice on her. Rouge has been having a hard time deciding between a red dress and a purple dress. She really wants to amaze Knuckles this year."
"She loves him so much," Tails said, smiling. "All she wants to do is make him happy. I think that she's too thick-headed to realize that anything she does will make Knux happy."
"Except taking the Master Emerald." Maria added, giggling. They both fell into a fit of laughter for a moment. When they calmed down, Maria asked, "Have you found a tux you like?"
"I want to wear something with green in it, but this tux is lime green and I'd never wear that." Tails said.
"I know!" Maria exclaimed. She spotted a black tux that was being displayed on a mannequin, the under shirt was forest green instead of white. "How about this? The whole thing isn't green so you won't look weird but there is enough to look nice."
"Hmmm, I knew I should have brought a girl with me." Tails said, "I would have never noticed that."
"Why don't you try it on?" Maria asked.
@----------
"How's this one Shadow?" Sonic asked, stepping out of the dressing room wearing a dark blue tux. "I'm all blue and totally cool!"
Shadow sweat dropped and said, "That looks ridiculous, Sonic. Wear a black tux like everyone else."
"Everyone else! I can't do that!" Sonic shouted, "I'm not everyone else, I'm Sonic the -"
"Can it." Shadow interrupted, crossing his arms.
Near the cash register, Knuckles was talking with a clerk about the tux he was paying for. "So, your saying that this tuxedo is made from fine velvet and it's worth a load of money?"
"Yes, you are lucky you're getting it at such a fair price." The clerk said. She reached behind the counter and pulled out gold pocket watch. "See this watch, it's pure gold. It has a legend behind it too. Whoever wears it will lead a happy life."
"Really?" Knuckles asked, the word 'gullible' written all over his face.
"Yeah," said a white bat, stepping up behind Knuckles. "And it will leave you in poverty after you buy it."
"Rouge? What are you doing here?" Knuckles asked, clearly surprised.
"Same thing you are sweetie." Rouge cooed, pulling him away from the counter. "But I think you'll need my help in finding something that isn't ridiculously over priced."
"Sonic, you look great!" Amy squealed.
Sonic grinned until Shadow said, "Sonic, don't listen to her. You could be wearing a paper bag and she'd still think you're hip."
"That's not very nice Shadow!" Amy yelled.
"True." Shadow said, his eyes half closed, "But I'm only pointing out the obvious."
"Fine. I'll go look for another one." Sonic moaned, dragging himself back to the tuxes. Amy ran after him to make sure he didn't come back with another goofy tux.
@------------
Maria and Tails were sitting on a bench right outside the store, watching the people pass by. Tails had brought the tuxedo and was now carrying it in a bag, laid neatly between them.
"Do you think they'll know we're here?" Maria asked.
"We can always go back inside but I'm sure it will take them a long time to find what they are looking for. Tails said.
"You seem really excited about the dance. Is there someone you want to dance with?" Maria asked, nudging him in the ribs.
"Well." Tails blushed. "A friend of mine is supposed to be arriving today so that we can go to the dance together. Her name is Cream."
"Cream? How cute! When are you going to get her?" Maria asked, smiling.
"She said she would call me." Tails replied.
Just then, the gang came out of the store, all of them carrying bags. "Hey, guys! What are you doing out here?" Sonic asked.
"We were just waiting for you all to finish shopping. Did you find anything?" Maria asked, blushing slightly when she saw Shadow.
"Everyone but me." Rouge said. "I'll have to go back later to find a dress."
"Maybe if you didn't spend so much time worrying about what Knuc-" Amy started, before Rouge stepped on her foot. Knuckles looked quizzingly at the two while Shadow sighed.
@-------------
Maria couldn't stop the butterflies from swimming around in her stomach as she modeled her dress in the mirror. It came out perfectly; Amy did a great job in fixing it. She swirled around and watched her dress fly around with her. She looked one last time in mirror, brushing back a lose quill and sighed.
Everyone was already downstairs while Maria was getting ready.
Sonic was wearing a black tux with an artificial blue rose in his pocket. He was speaking with Shadow who was wearing a normal black tux but without the bowtie. Tails wore his black tux with the green undershirt and Knuckles wore a dark purple tux. (So dark you could just barely tell it's purple) Rouge decided on wearing a red sequin dress with white gloves. Amy wore a pink dress with a bunch of yellow pearls on the front.
When Maria walked into the room, all eyes turned toward her. Maria blushed and quickly looked down at her feet. She was wearing the late Maria's dress; a white gown with a blue over jacket. She looked up just a bit to see everyone's reaction. Rouge and Amy nodded their approval, and the guys just basically smiled. All except Shadow, he rarely ever smiled. His eyebrows rose a little in surprise, but he didn't say a word.
"Now that everyone's here, we can get going." Sonic said.
Maria, Sonic and Amy left in one car while Shadow, Rouge, Tails and Knuckles left in the other. Maria gazed out the window, admiring the different colored lights as they swirled by. 'Tonight's the night I tell Shadow everything. It's tonight or bust! I have to do this.'
@----------------
As soon as they entered the building, they saw people all over getting ready for the first dance. Rouge and Knuckles ran off towards the dance floor before anyone could stop them. Amy grabbed Sonic's hand and slowly dragged him as near as she could get him to the dance floor. Shadow wandered over to the food table, leaving Maria and Tails standing stupefied at the entrance.
"So, what happened to Cream?" Maria asked.
Tails looked down sadly and said, "Her flight into Station Square was canceled so she couldn't come."
"Don't worry, Tails. You'll manage, you're a good guy and that's what every female truly wants. Just have fun tonight." Maria said, smiling.
Tails nodded and said, "You're right. I'll have fun." He ran off toward the dance floor too.
Maria walked in, gawking at all the people dressed up. The floor was like an array of dancing colors. She could see the sparkle from Rouge's dress through the crowd. She looked over at Shadow who had a crowd of girls surrounding him.
"It looks like that's a tough crowd to break." Said a voice behind her. Maria turned around to see a fox with cream-colored fur and teal eyes. She wore a short teal dress and was wearing a blue necklace around her neck that seemed to look like it was made of ice. "My name is Yukina. I'm please to meet you." She held out her hand.
"Nice to meet you too. I'm Maria." She said, shaking Yukina's hand. She looked over at Shadow and sighed, "You're right. It's too thick."
"Ah, don't worry about it. If you have something to say to him I'm sure he'll listen." Lukina said, winking at her. "I hope you have a nice night. See you around." She smiled and slipped through the dancing crowd before Maria could respond.
Maria felt a light tap on her shoulder. When she turned around she was face to face with Shadow. Apparently he left the crowd of girls while she wasn't looking. "Hi, Shadow." Maria said, slightly blushing.
"I wanted to know if you'd like to dance. Will you?" Shadow asked, holding his hand out to her. She nodded and placed her hand in his. "Great. A new song has just started, we'd better get onto the dance floor." He said, smiling. His smile practically melted Maria's heart; it was full of warmth and ease, no fear or sadness from the previous night.
A slow song echoed through the dance floor, calling upon every couple there. Maria had spotted Knuckles and Rouge and Sonic and Amy entering the crowd of dancers. They all looked very content. Shadow put his arms around her waist and drew her closer to him. She hesitantly put her arms around his neck but then noticed that that was what everyone else was doing. As they slowly danced, Maria laid her head on his shoulder and sighed. 'If only it could always be like this,' Maria thought, 'but I still have to tell him."
As the song finished, Maria pulled away from him and asked, "Shadow, I have something to tell you. Can we go some place private?"
"Yeah, sure." Shadow replied.
They left the dance floor and went into the dark hallway right out side. They stooped next to an open window; moonlight resting on their faces.
"What did you want to tell me?" Shadow asked, looking at her.
Maria took a deep breath and said, "I wanted to tell you something I should have when we first met. I.couldn't bring myself to tell you.because.I guess you could say I'm a wimp. I was so scared that.you wouldn't believe me but.waiting this long to tell you has only made it worse." She looked at him to see he was totally confused. Everything depended upon him believing her. Her love for him.her disease.and the fact that she would be cured; it all depended upon this. "I'm the reincarnation of Maria Robotnik."
@-----------
"Shadow, I meant to tell you about Maria's disease." Dr. Gerald said, trying to convince an extremely mad Shadow.
"Maria's my best friend! Why shouldn't I have known about it?" He said, crossing his arms.
"I had just created you, I didn't want you to be burdened with such information."
"If you told me then-"
"Then what? What would you do?"
"I'd try to find a cure!"
"That is what I have been trying to do, that is why we are up here on this space colony and not Earth. Do you understand?"
".Yes.."
@------------
"I'm sorry but.I just can't believe that." Shadow replied, clearly shocked but also composed as he gave his answer. He couldn't believe she would say something like that and expect her to believe it right off the bat. "You really don't strike me as her at all, I'm sorry."
"It's alright." Maria whispered, as she felt her insides shatter. Her world was falling apart in front of her; her hope was crushed. It wasn't his fault; no, it was hers. She couldn't tell him in time. She couldn't even tell him that she had NIBS. When she thought of it, her mind froze over as if an ice cube hit it. 'If he doesn't believe that I am Maria, then how will help me with my disease? He won't.'
"No, it's not." Shadow said, standing tall. "I can see how much I'm hurting you. She is a big part of my past so I can't just believe everything I hear."
"I said it's alright." Maria squeaked, holding back her tears so that she could finish the conversation. "I was expecting an answer like this. I know it is not always easy to believe. I would try to persuade you but it is your heart and nothing can change the way you think about things."
"Maria-"
"Don't worry!" Maria said, turning away from him. "I have to go to the bathroom now. Thanks for listening, Shadow." She left him standing there and didn't turn back. If she did, she'd be sure she would crumble at the sight of his hurt eyes. (Come on! Of course Shadow would be sad if he hurt someone with his thinking! Just wanted to make it clear what was happening)
@-----------
Maria headed toward the exit before someone grabbed her hand. She turned to see Tails. "Hmm? Tails, what is it?"
"I wanted to know where you are going. The dance room is the other way." Tails said, pointing to the open doorway.
"I'm going home. I'm really tired, I won't wake up tomorrow morning if I don't leave now." Maria lied, wiping her face.
"Don't walk home by yourself! I'll get Shadow to drive you-"
"No, no! I don't want anyone to leave early because of me!" Maria said. "I'll be fine walking home. I have gotten into worse trouble."
"But Maria-"
"Don't worry, I'll walk her home." Yukina said, stepping up from behind them. "She'll be in good hands. I'm her friend."
"See?" Maria said.
"I can't argue with that." Tails sighed. "Oh yeah, before you go- can you come with me tomorrow morning to pick Cream up from the airport?"
"Sure, I'd love to meet her!" Maria replied.
"Okay then, I'll leave you alone." Tails said; "Have a safe walk home."
@-----------
"So tell me how your conversation went?" Yukina asked as they walking down the bustling streets. "From the look on your face it must not have been to good."
"He rejected me." Maria sniffled, "He wasn't trying to be mean but it hurt me none the less. You see, I am the reincarnation of a girl named Maria Robotnik; someone Shadow used to know as a childhood friend. I have had her memories since I was a little girl; it was so important to me to find that black hedgehog and tell him that I was here. Unfortunately, I've grown shy and weak over the years which prevented me from telling him sooner."
"Do you have proof that you are in fact Maria?" Yukina asked.
"I do." Maria sighed, "I have the same disease she had, NIBS. It is impossible to catch it now."
"Why didn't you tell him that? It sounds like all he was looking for was proof."
"I froze up."
"I see." Yukina said, thoughtfully touching her necklace, "I don't think it's over. Next time, make sure you tell him that information."
Maria nodded.
@--------------
"Ah! This was a great night!" Amy sighed, leaning against the entranceway. The gang met up there. "Sonic was such a sweetie, he danced with me even though I stepped on his feet!"
"Awww, come on. It wasn't that big of a deal." Sonic said, blushing.
"I think it was." Knuckles teased, placing his arm around Rouge.
"Is everyone here?" Rouge asked, looking around.
"Yup, me, you, Knuckles, Shadow, Sonic and Amy." Tails said, counting.
"Wait, What about Maria?" Shadow asked.
"Oh yeah!" Tails said, "She left early, she said see was tired."
"What? Left early?! How'd she get home?" Sonic shouted.
"Her friend Yukina walked her home. I think she made it home okay." Tails said, sweat dropping.
"The only way to truly find out is to get home." Amy pointed out.
"I'll get the car." Shadow said.
@-----------------
The late Maria lay sprawled out on her bed with Shadow next to her. Both of them were looking out the window.
"Maria?" Shadow asked, facing towards her.
"What is it Shadow?" Maria said, turning to look at him.
"Remember that book we read, "Where's Waldo"?" The last page was the hardest because everyone looked like Waldo and you didn't know which one was him." Shadow said.
"Yes, but you were able to find the real one, it was the one carrying the books, no one else was carrying them." Maria said, smiling.
"Well, I wanted to say that.if there was a whole room of Maria's, I just no I would be able to find you; the real you. It's because we're best friends." Shadow said.
"I'm sure you would find me," Maria laughed, "I know you would."
@-------------------
Tears silently trickled down Maria's cheeks and on to the pillowcase of her bed. She remembered that time when he had said that, she had thought it was the sweetest thing. Now, in the real world, Shadow couldn't possibly her, since she was right here. How she wished he would believe her. He still believes the late Maria is dead or that she is still out there and that he has to find her first. "Sh-sh-shadow.you.said.you could.pick.me out of any crowd.you said."
@---------------------
Shadow walked up to the side of the car while Sonic, who was also driving, went to his. As he unlocked the car, a small familiar voice spoke from behind him, "Shadow, is that you?"
Shadow turned around to see Xenia standing there, disguised as Maria. She looks exactly as she did when she met with Maria, the furry. (I will call her Xenia whenever she shows up or speaks because it will get really confusing with three Maria's running around. You'll get used to it.)
"M-Maria?" Shadow stuttered dropping his car keys on the ground.
"It's been so long, hasn't it?" She said softly, "I knew I would find you again Shadow."
"I thought you-" Shadow started.
"After you left ARK, I was captured and brought to GUN headquarters. They treated my wounds and then kept me locked up in a lab with Dr. Gerald. Using everything that was in the lab, he transformed me into a hedgehog so that GUN wouldn't destroy me, rather, they would keep me for experimenting. They froze me and I had just awakened a few days ago. Luckily, I was able to find you. I've been waiting too long to see you again, Shadow." Xenia said.
"Maria." He whispered, his hands shaking slightly. He held her tight.
Sonic saw the whole thing with shock spread across his face. 'This can't be happening.Maria.this girl just can't be her!' Xenia looked at Sonic and her face turned as dark as the malicious smirk on her face. Sonic knew then, that he was right, yet all he could do was stand there and pity both Shadow and Maria.
@----------------
"Are you doing anything today?" Rouge asked, yawning as she set her place at the kitchen table.
"I'm going out this morning." Shadow replied, reading a magazine at the table.
"Really now? Any special reason? Are you going with anyone?" Rouge asked, curious.
"None of your business." Shadow replied, turning a page.
"Hmph."
"OH MAN!!!!!" cried a voice, coming from upstairs. There was loud thumping and the sound of a door slamming.
"That must be Maria.I wonder what's up?" Rouge said.
"." Shadow didn't say anything. He really didn't want to see her for fear she would still look heartbroken.
After a few loud thumps, Maria came down the stairs and ran into the kitchen. She totally ignored Shadow and Rouge's gawking faces as she opened the refrigerator a poured some milk. She swallowed it in one gulp and ran around looking for her shoes with swirly marks for eyes.
"What's the rush?" Rouge asked, grabbing Maria's shoes from the front door; exactly where it's always been.
"I promised Tails I'd come with him to pick up his friend from the airport! I overslept! If I don't hurry I'll be late!" Maria yelled, stuffing her feet into her shoes. "Oh yeah, I won't be here for lunch. I'm going to spend the day with Tails and Cream."
Maria stopped for a second before opening the door. "Bye Rouge." She then backed up so she could she into the kitchen where Shadow was and smiled, "See you, Shadow!"
Shadow looked up from his magazine in surprise; he wasn't expecting her to talk to him. He smiled and went back to reading.
Maria then ran out the door and sprouted her wings so that she flew over the roofs of the houses. She looked down at the house for a little while and then flew off.
@--------
"And then Cheese went into Mother's cookie jar without permission. Mother never found out though, I didn't tell. I couldn't, Cheese is my best friend." Cream said, finishing her story.
"Chao, Chaaaaaoooo!" Cheese cooed.
Maria was surprised at how much she liked Cream. Cream was such a sweet and very polite girl. They had a lot of fun that day, going to the movies, eating out and Tails seemed like he was enjoying himself too.
"Hey, Maria!" Yukina yelled, crossing the street. She looked at Cream and Cheese and smiled. "So you are Cream? Nice to meet you. I'm Yukina, a friend of Maria."
"It's very nice to meet you too." Cream said, bowing.
"I got just the lunch for the occasion, a cream cheese bagel!" Yukina said, pulling out a half eaten bagel. Yukina looked behind them. "Hey, is that Shadow?"
Maria turned around and saw Shadow walking down the street. He was smiling and holding hands with.no.way.
"That girl he's with looks just like the late Maria only furry style.it can't be." Tails said. "Maria, you are the real reincarnation, aren't you?"
Maria stood there shocked, wondering how Xenia could have possibly met him. It's too late now; her plan has already begun. Suddenly, Maria's eyes turned to anger, "Yes, I am."
Xenia turned around when Shadow wasn't looking; an evil grin was spread across her face. She lifted her hand into the air, and at that moment, Maria collapsed to the ground.
"Maria! Maria! Are you okay?" Cream cried, gently nudging Maria.
"Uhhh." Maria moaned, slowly pushing herself up. 'Xenia has complete control over my disease. She just attacked me using it.'
"That.that thing.it caused you to collapse, didn't it? I can sense it." Yukina said, her necklace started to glow with a cool light.
"You're right." Maria said, standing up. "She did that to me, she is a fake." She looked down at her feet and added, "And there is nothing I can do."
Kimmie's Corner:
Kimmie: Whoowhee! This is the longest chapter yet!
Shadow: You're telling me.
Kimmie: I'd like to say that I'm sorry that it's taking so long to get my chapters up. I'll never give up though; this story will be finished!
Shadow: You should see the amount of work she lugs home everyday! She has her worst subjects too, until Christmas it will take a while for her finish a chapter.
Kimmie: You can't say I've cheated you though; my chapters are always long. I know I hate when I'm reading a fanfic that the chapters are too short! I never wanted to do that to you guys.
Shadow: This chapter is 11 pages long with ten point words, I wonder how many more pages it will be on ff.net?
Kimmie: The story is almost over! According to the rate I am going, the story will be done at Chapter 10! Three more chapters!
I want to thank Rebound for the drawings of Maria! They were really good! I can't believe you were able to draw that just from my descriptions! I thought I was doing a bad job as far as describing what she looks like goes. The only thing is, Maria's bangs (Which I forgot to mention) Look like Amy's bangs, not as the late Maria's would look. I said I would draw a picture of her so you all could see, I will put that in the next chapter!
Also, if you go to my profile, I will write my progress on this story so you know how long it will be till the next chapter. Thank you all so much!
Preview of Next Chapter:
"Hi there, Sonic here! As the winter festival draws ever so closer, everyone is rehearsing for the play. That girl (Xenia) has practically strapped herself to Shadow's side and I know it is hurting Maria. I can see it. I don't trust that girl but I can't convince Shadow to think otherwise. Can't he see Maria is the one true person for him? I know things are tough but still, I think this problem runs much deeper.
Maria finally steps up to the plate in chapter 8: Fire, The Final Straw
Gotta juice!"
Kimmie: Hi there! I'm so happy with this chapter; I really felt that I'm bringing out their personalities. Like, I actually got Shadow talking.sigh. I hope you enjoy it!
"MARIA, STOP! STOP! STOP!" Amy yelled, frantically. Rouge eyed her and sighed.
Maria looked down at the needle and thread she held in her hands and asked, "What am I doing wrong now?"
"Your stitches are too big! If you put the dress on it will fall apart." Amy groaned, "Here, let me do it." She took the dress and with the needle, unthreaded Maria's mistakes.
"Rouge sighed again and said, "I hope this won't take too much longer. We still have to buy our dresses."
"This is a worthy cause," Amy lectured, "Because it's for love."
"Huh?" Maria exclaimed, "How would you know about that?"
"Sorry, but I told Amy that you love Shadow." Rouge said.
"But I didn't tell you, how'd you know?" Maria blurted, blushing. She squeezed her hands together in frustration while looked at Amy's fingers work magic on the dress.
"I overheard you talking to yourself, Maria." Rouge said, laughing lightly. When Maria made a face, Rouge smiled and said, "Hey, you are lucky I heard you. If Shadow had ease dropped instead, well, I don't know what would have happened."
"You guys." Maria groaned. She knew it would be harder to tell Shadow everything now that she had them there to push her.
@--------------
"Hey, look who's picking out a tuxedo." Rouge purred over Amy's shoulder. She pointed to the kid's section of the department store to see Tails.
"Awww.how cute." Amy squealed.
Maria sweat dropped and said, "Don't you guys remember everyone is going to the dance? That includes Tails."
"Hey," Amy pointed out, "Since Tails is here, I bet the rest of the guys are in the men's department. Let's go see!"
"Good idea," Rouge added, "Knuckles doesn't have much sense when it comes to buying cloths; he is so gullible he'll end up paying three times the normal price."
Maria, not wanting to run into Shadow said, "Well, I'm going to see how Tails is doing. Good luck!" Maria walked across the store to the kid's department. On her way she almost tripped over a pile of socks that haven't been put on the shelves yet.
Tails noticed her coming and said, "Hi, Maria. Did you find a dress?"
"Yeah.well, I decided to make one for the dance. I'm just here to help Amy and Rouge look for their dresses." Maria said, blushing a bit.
"Did they have any luck?" Tails asked, while fingering a green tux.
"Lets see." Maria murmured, placing her hand under her chin. It was hard to recall where they started because they had been there so long. "Amy found this pink dress with a bunch of yellow pearls in the front. She still wants to look more but I think it looks really nice on her. Rouge has been having a hard time deciding between a red dress and a purple dress. She really wants to amaze Knuckles this year."
"She loves him so much," Tails said, smiling. "All she wants to do is make him happy. I think that she's too thick-headed to realize that anything she does will make Knux happy."
"Except taking the Master Emerald." Maria added, giggling. They both fell into a fit of laughter for a moment. When they calmed down, Maria asked, "Have you found a tux you like?"
"I want to wear something with green in it, but this tux is lime green and I'd never wear that." Tails said.
"I know!" Maria exclaimed. She spotted a black tux that was being displayed on a mannequin, the under shirt was forest green instead of white. "How about this? The whole thing isn't green so you won't look weird but there is enough to look nice."
"Hmmm, I knew I should have brought a girl with me." Tails said, "I would have never noticed that."
"Why don't you try it on?" Maria asked.
@----------
"How's this one Shadow?" Sonic asked, stepping out of the dressing room wearing a dark blue tux. "I'm all blue and totally cool!"
Shadow sweat dropped and said, "That looks ridiculous, Sonic. Wear a black tux like everyone else."
"Everyone else! I can't do that!" Sonic shouted, "I'm not everyone else, I'm Sonic the -"
"Can it." Shadow interrupted, crossing his arms.
Near the cash register, Knuckles was talking with a clerk about the tux he was paying for. "So, your saying that this tuxedo is made from fine velvet and it's worth a load of money?"
"Yes, you are lucky you're getting it at such a fair price." The clerk said. She reached behind the counter and pulled out gold pocket watch. "See this watch, it's pure gold. It has a legend behind it too. Whoever wears it will lead a happy life."
"Really?" Knuckles asked, the word 'gullible' written all over his face.
"Yeah," said a white bat, stepping up behind Knuckles. "And it will leave you in poverty after you buy it."
"Rouge? What are you doing here?" Knuckles asked, clearly surprised.
"Same thing you are sweetie." Rouge cooed, pulling him away from the counter. "But I think you'll need my help in finding something that isn't ridiculously over priced."
"Sonic, you look great!" Amy squealed.
Sonic grinned until Shadow said, "Sonic, don't listen to her. You could be wearing a paper bag and she'd still think you're hip."
"That's not very nice Shadow!" Amy yelled.
"True." Shadow said, his eyes half closed, "But I'm only pointing out the obvious."
"Fine. I'll go look for another one." Sonic moaned, dragging himself back to the tuxes. Amy ran after him to make sure he didn't come back with another goofy tux.
@------------
Maria and Tails were sitting on a bench right outside the store, watching the people pass by. Tails had brought the tuxedo and was now carrying it in a bag, laid neatly between them.
"Do you think they'll know we're here?" Maria asked.
"We can always go back inside but I'm sure it will take them a long time to find what they are looking for. Tails said.
"You seem really excited about the dance. Is there someone you want to dance with?" Maria asked, nudging him in the ribs.
"Well." Tails blushed. "A friend of mine is supposed to be arriving today so that we can go to the dance together. Her name is Cream."
"Cream? How cute! When are you going to get her?" Maria asked, smiling.
"She said she would call me." Tails replied.
Just then, the gang came out of the store, all of them carrying bags. "Hey, guys! What are you doing out here?" Sonic asked.
"We were just waiting for you all to finish shopping. Did you find anything?" Maria asked, blushing slightly when she saw Shadow.
"Everyone but me." Rouge said. "I'll have to go back later to find a dress."
"Maybe if you didn't spend so much time worrying about what Knuc-" Amy started, before Rouge stepped on her foot. Knuckles looked quizzingly at the two while Shadow sighed.
@-------------
Maria couldn't stop the butterflies from swimming around in her stomach as she modeled her dress in the mirror. It came out perfectly; Amy did a great job in fixing it. She swirled around and watched her dress fly around with her. She looked one last time in mirror, brushing back a lose quill and sighed.
Everyone was already downstairs while Maria was getting ready.
Sonic was wearing a black tux with an artificial blue rose in his pocket. He was speaking with Shadow who was wearing a normal black tux but without the bowtie. Tails wore his black tux with the green undershirt and Knuckles wore a dark purple tux. (So dark you could just barely tell it's purple) Rouge decided on wearing a red sequin dress with white gloves. Amy wore a pink dress with a bunch of yellow pearls on the front.
When Maria walked into the room, all eyes turned toward her. Maria blushed and quickly looked down at her feet. She was wearing the late Maria's dress; a white gown with a blue over jacket. She looked up just a bit to see everyone's reaction. Rouge and Amy nodded their approval, and the guys just basically smiled. All except Shadow, he rarely ever smiled. His eyebrows rose a little in surprise, but he didn't say a word.
"Now that everyone's here, we can get going." Sonic said.
Maria, Sonic and Amy left in one car while Shadow, Rouge, Tails and Knuckles left in the other. Maria gazed out the window, admiring the different colored lights as they swirled by. 'Tonight's the night I tell Shadow everything. It's tonight or bust! I have to do this.'
@----------------
As soon as they entered the building, they saw people all over getting ready for the first dance. Rouge and Knuckles ran off towards the dance floor before anyone could stop them. Amy grabbed Sonic's hand and slowly dragged him as near as she could get him to the dance floor. Shadow wandered over to the food table, leaving Maria and Tails standing stupefied at the entrance.
"So, what happened to Cream?" Maria asked.
Tails looked down sadly and said, "Her flight into Station Square was canceled so she couldn't come."
"Don't worry, Tails. You'll manage, you're a good guy and that's what every female truly wants. Just have fun tonight." Maria said, smiling.
Tails nodded and said, "You're right. I'll have fun." He ran off toward the dance floor too.
Maria walked in, gawking at all the people dressed up. The floor was like an array of dancing colors. She could see the sparkle from Rouge's dress through the crowd. She looked over at Shadow who had a crowd of girls surrounding him.
"It looks like that's a tough crowd to break." Said a voice behind her. Maria turned around to see a fox with cream-colored fur and teal eyes. She wore a short teal dress and was wearing a blue necklace around her neck that seemed to look like it was made of ice. "My name is Yukina. I'm please to meet you." She held out her hand.
"Nice to meet you too. I'm Maria." She said, shaking Yukina's hand. She looked over at Shadow and sighed, "You're right. It's too thick."
"Ah, don't worry about it. If you have something to say to him I'm sure he'll listen." Lukina said, winking at her. "I hope you have a nice night. See you around." She smiled and slipped through the dancing crowd before Maria could respond.
Maria felt a light tap on her shoulder. When she turned around she was face to face with Shadow. Apparently he left the crowd of girls while she wasn't looking. "Hi, Shadow." Maria said, slightly blushing.
"I wanted to know if you'd like to dance. Will you?" Shadow asked, holding his hand out to her. She nodded and placed her hand in his. "Great. A new song has just started, we'd better get onto the dance floor." He said, smiling. His smile practically melted Maria's heart; it was full of warmth and ease, no fear or sadness from the previous night.
A slow song echoed through the dance floor, calling upon every couple there. Maria had spotted Knuckles and Rouge and Sonic and Amy entering the crowd of dancers. They all looked very content. Shadow put his arms around her waist and drew her closer to him. She hesitantly put her arms around his neck but then noticed that that was what everyone else was doing. As they slowly danced, Maria laid her head on his shoulder and sighed. 'If only it could always be like this,' Maria thought, 'but I still have to tell him."
As the song finished, Maria pulled away from him and asked, "Shadow, I have something to tell you. Can we go some place private?"
"Yeah, sure." Shadow replied.
They left the dance floor and went into the dark hallway right out side. They stooped next to an open window; moonlight resting on their faces.
"What did you want to tell me?" Shadow asked, looking at her.
Maria took a deep breath and said, "I wanted to tell you something I should have when we first met. I.couldn't bring myself to tell you.because.I guess you could say I'm a wimp. I was so scared that.you wouldn't believe me but.waiting this long to tell you has only made it worse." She looked at him to see he was totally confused. Everything depended upon him believing her. Her love for him.her disease.and the fact that she would be cured; it all depended upon this. "I'm the reincarnation of Maria Robotnik."
@-----------
"Shadow, I meant to tell you about Maria's disease." Dr. Gerald said, trying to convince an extremely mad Shadow.
"Maria's my best friend! Why shouldn't I have known about it?" He said, crossing his arms.
"I had just created you, I didn't want you to be burdened with such information."
"If you told me then-"
"Then what? What would you do?"
"I'd try to find a cure!"
"That is what I have been trying to do, that is why we are up here on this space colony and not Earth. Do you understand?"
".Yes.."
@------------
"I'm sorry but.I just can't believe that." Shadow replied, clearly shocked but also composed as he gave his answer. He couldn't believe she would say something like that and expect her to believe it right off the bat. "You really don't strike me as her at all, I'm sorry."
"It's alright." Maria whispered, as she felt her insides shatter. Her world was falling apart in front of her; her hope was crushed. It wasn't his fault; no, it was hers. She couldn't tell him in time. She couldn't even tell him that she had NIBS. When she thought of it, her mind froze over as if an ice cube hit it. 'If he doesn't believe that I am Maria, then how will help me with my disease? He won't.'
"No, it's not." Shadow said, standing tall. "I can see how much I'm hurting you. She is a big part of my past so I can't just believe everything I hear."
"I said it's alright." Maria squeaked, holding back her tears so that she could finish the conversation. "I was expecting an answer like this. I know it is not always easy to believe. I would try to persuade you but it is your heart and nothing can change the way you think about things."
"Maria-"
"Don't worry!" Maria said, turning away from him. "I have to go to the bathroom now. Thanks for listening, Shadow." She left him standing there and didn't turn back. If she did, she'd be sure she would crumble at the sight of his hurt eyes. (Come on! Of course Shadow would be sad if he hurt someone with his thinking! Just wanted to make it clear what was happening)
@-----------
Maria headed toward the exit before someone grabbed her hand. She turned to see Tails. "Hmm? Tails, what is it?"
"I wanted to know where you are going. The dance room is the other way." Tails said, pointing to the open doorway.
"I'm going home. I'm really tired, I won't wake up tomorrow morning if I don't leave now." Maria lied, wiping her face.
"Don't walk home by yourself! I'll get Shadow to drive you-"
"No, no! I don't want anyone to leave early because of me!" Maria said. "I'll be fine walking home. I have gotten into worse trouble."
"But Maria-"
"Don't worry, I'll walk her home." Yukina said, stepping up from behind them. "She'll be in good hands. I'm her friend."
"See?" Maria said.
"I can't argue with that." Tails sighed. "Oh yeah, before you go- can you come with me tomorrow morning to pick Cream up from the airport?"
"Sure, I'd love to meet her!" Maria replied.
"Okay then, I'll leave you alone." Tails said; "Have a safe walk home."
@-----------
"So tell me how your conversation went?" Yukina asked as they walking down the bustling streets. "From the look on your face it must not have been to good."
"He rejected me." Maria sniffled, "He wasn't trying to be mean but it hurt me none the less. You see, I am the reincarnation of a girl named Maria Robotnik; someone Shadow used to know as a childhood friend. I have had her memories since I was a little girl; it was so important to me to find that black hedgehog and tell him that I was here. Unfortunately, I've grown shy and weak over the years which prevented me from telling him sooner."
"Do you have proof that you are in fact Maria?" Yukina asked.
"I do." Maria sighed, "I have the same disease she had, NIBS. It is impossible to catch it now."
"Why didn't you tell him that? It sounds like all he was looking for was proof."
"I froze up."
"I see." Yukina said, thoughtfully touching her necklace, "I don't think it's over. Next time, make sure you tell him that information."
Maria nodded.
@--------------
"Ah! This was a great night!" Amy sighed, leaning against the entranceway. The gang met up there. "Sonic was such a sweetie, he danced with me even though I stepped on his feet!"
"Awww, come on. It wasn't that big of a deal." Sonic said, blushing.
"I think it was." Knuckles teased, placing his arm around Rouge.
"Is everyone here?" Rouge asked, looking around.
"Yup, me, you, Knuckles, Shadow, Sonic and Amy." Tails said, counting.
"Wait, What about Maria?" Shadow asked.
"Oh yeah!" Tails said, "She left early, she said see was tired."
"What? Left early?! How'd she get home?" Sonic shouted.
"Her friend Yukina walked her home. I think she made it home okay." Tails said, sweat dropping.
"The only way to truly find out is to get home." Amy pointed out.
"I'll get the car." Shadow said.
@-----------------
The late Maria lay sprawled out on her bed with Shadow next to her. Both of them were looking out the window.
"Maria?" Shadow asked, facing towards her.
"What is it Shadow?" Maria said, turning to look at him.
"Remember that book we read, "Where's Waldo"?" The last page was the hardest because everyone looked like Waldo and you didn't know which one was him." Shadow said.
"Yes, but you were able to find the real one, it was the one carrying the books, no one else was carrying them." Maria said, smiling.
"Well, I wanted to say that.if there was a whole room of Maria's, I just no I would be able to find you; the real you. It's because we're best friends." Shadow said.
"I'm sure you would find me," Maria laughed, "I know you would."
@-------------------
Tears silently trickled down Maria's cheeks and on to the pillowcase of her bed. She remembered that time when he had said that, she had thought it was the sweetest thing. Now, in the real world, Shadow couldn't possibly her, since she was right here. How she wished he would believe her. He still believes the late Maria is dead or that she is still out there and that he has to find her first. "Sh-sh-shadow.you.said.you could.pick.me out of any crowd.you said."
@---------------------
Shadow walked up to the side of the car while Sonic, who was also driving, went to his. As he unlocked the car, a small familiar voice spoke from behind him, "Shadow, is that you?"
Shadow turned around to see Xenia standing there, disguised as Maria. She looks exactly as she did when she met with Maria, the furry. (I will call her Xenia whenever she shows up or speaks because it will get really confusing with three Maria's running around. You'll get used to it.)
"M-Maria?" Shadow stuttered dropping his car keys on the ground.
"It's been so long, hasn't it?" She said softly, "I knew I would find you again Shadow."
"I thought you-" Shadow started.
"After you left ARK, I was captured and brought to GUN headquarters. They treated my wounds and then kept me locked up in a lab with Dr. Gerald. Using everything that was in the lab, he transformed me into a hedgehog so that GUN wouldn't destroy me, rather, they would keep me for experimenting. They froze me and I had just awakened a few days ago. Luckily, I was able to find you. I've been waiting too long to see you again, Shadow." Xenia said.
"Maria." He whispered, his hands shaking slightly. He held her tight.
Sonic saw the whole thing with shock spread across his face. 'This can't be happening.Maria.this girl just can't be her!' Xenia looked at Sonic and her face turned as dark as the malicious smirk on her face. Sonic knew then, that he was right, yet all he could do was stand there and pity both Shadow and Maria.
@----------------
"Are you doing anything today?" Rouge asked, yawning as she set her place at the kitchen table.
"I'm going out this morning." Shadow replied, reading a magazine at the table.
"Really now? Any special reason? Are you going with anyone?" Rouge asked, curious.
"None of your business." Shadow replied, turning a page.
"Hmph."
"OH MAN!!!!!" cried a voice, coming from upstairs. There was loud thumping and the sound of a door slamming.
"That must be Maria.I wonder what's up?" Rouge said.
"." Shadow didn't say anything. He really didn't want to see her for fear she would still look heartbroken.
After a few loud thumps, Maria came down the stairs and ran into the kitchen. She totally ignored Shadow and Rouge's gawking faces as she opened the refrigerator a poured some milk. She swallowed it in one gulp and ran around looking for her shoes with swirly marks for eyes.
"What's the rush?" Rouge asked, grabbing Maria's shoes from the front door; exactly where it's always been.
"I promised Tails I'd come with him to pick up his friend from the airport! I overslept! If I don't hurry I'll be late!" Maria yelled, stuffing her feet into her shoes. "Oh yeah, I won't be here for lunch. I'm going to spend the day with Tails and Cream."
Maria stopped for a second before opening the door. "Bye Rouge." She then backed up so she could she into the kitchen where Shadow was and smiled, "See you, Shadow!"
Shadow looked up from his magazine in surprise; he wasn't expecting her to talk to him. He smiled and went back to reading.
Maria then ran out the door and sprouted her wings so that she flew over the roofs of the houses. She looked down at the house for a little while and then flew off.
@--------
"And then Cheese went into Mother's cookie jar without permission. Mother never found out though, I didn't tell. I couldn't, Cheese is my best friend." Cream said, finishing her story.
"Chao, Chaaaaaoooo!" Cheese cooed.
Maria was surprised at how much she liked Cream. Cream was such a sweet and very polite girl. They had a lot of fun that day, going to the movies, eating out and Tails seemed like he was enjoying himself too.
"Hey, Maria!" Yukina yelled, crossing the street. She looked at Cream and Cheese and smiled. "So you are Cream? Nice to meet you. I'm Yukina, a friend of Maria."
"It's very nice to meet you too." Cream said, bowing.
"I got just the lunch for the occasion, a cream cheese bagel!" Yukina said, pulling out a half eaten bagel. Yukina looked behind them. "Hey, is that Shadow?"
Maria turned around and saw Shadow walking down the street. He was smiling and holding hands with.no.way.
"That girl he's with looks just like the late Maria only furry style.it can't be." Tails said. "Maria, you are the real reincarnation, aren't you?"
Maria stood there shocked, wondering how Xenia could have possibly met him. It's too late now; her plan has already begun. Suddenly, Maria's eyes turned to anger, "Yes, I am."
Xenia turned around when Shadow wasn't looking; an evil grin was spread across her face. She lifted her hand into the air, and at that moment, Maria collapsed to the ground.
"Maria! Maria! Are you okay?" Cream cried, gently nudging Maria.
"Uhhh." Maria moaned, slowly pushing herself up. 'Xenia has complete control over my disease. She just attacked me using it.'
"That.that thing.it caused you to collapse, didn't it? I can sense it." Yukina said, her necklace started to glow with a cool light.
"You're right." Maria said, standing up. "She did that to me, she is a fake." She looked down at her feet and added, "And there is nothing I can do."
Kimmie's Corner:
Kimmie: Whoowhee! This is the longest chapter yet!
Shadow: You're telling me.
Kimmie: I'd like to say that I'm sorry that it's taking so long to get my chapters up. I'll never give up though; this story will be finished!
Shadow: You should see the amount of work she lugs home everyday! She has her worst subjects too, until Christmas it will take a while for her finish a chapter.
Kimmie: You can't say I've cheated you though; my chapters are always long. I know I hate when I'm reading a fanfic that the chapters are too short! I never wanted to do that to you guys.
Shadow: This chapter is 11 pages long with ten point words, I wonder how many more pages it will be on ff.net?
Kimmie: The story is almost over! According to the rate I am going, the story will be done at Chapter 10! Three more chapters!
I want to thank Rebound for the drawings of Maria! They were really good! I can't believe you were able to draw that just from my descriptions! I thought I was doing a bad job as far as describing what she looks like goes. The only thing is, Maria's bangs (Which I forgot to mention) Look like Amy's bangs, not as the late Maria's would look. I said I would draw a picture of her so you all could see, I will put that in the next chapter!
Also, if you go to my profile, I will write my progress on this story so you know how long it will be till the next chapter. Thank you all so much!
Preview of Next Chapter:
"Hi there, Sonic here! As the winter festival draws ever so closer, everyone is rehearsing for the play. That girl (Xenia) has practically strapped herself to Shadow's side and I know it is hurting Maria. I can see it. I don't trust that girl but I can't convince Shadow to think otherwise. Can't he see Maria is the one true person for him? I know things are tough but still, I think this problem runs much deeper.
Maria finally steps up to the plate in chapter 8: Fire, The Final Straw
Gotta juice!"