-------------------------------------CHAPTER 8------------------------------
Authors note: Riding Bean, if you know what anime it is, then you're on the ball. For THOSE WHO DON'T, take a car and make the wheels to turn sideways, either way, and drive that way. You'll see it later in the story.
The next morning was a awake with lots of joy and laughter in the air as it had been for the last couple of weeks. Some were still weeping for joy at seeing families reunited. Sonic was sleeping in as usual. Shelby woke Ford at 10:00 saying he had enough sleep and to go get the formula. After grumbling a bit he left to get it. Mel continued to sleep. Tails was already up playing tag with Dulcy. Antoine was showing his father more of his cooking skills. Ford had mentioned several weeks ago that what Antoine made up in his cooking covered his cowardice. Sonic agreed but said it would be best to keep that between them. Bunnie was helping things get ready to open the school again. King Max and a few other parents thought it best to wait awhile for everyone to settle in and enjoy having family time before starting the school.
Rotor was putting the last of the formula inside a spraying machine when Ford walked in.
"Morning Ford, I'm almo....hahahahahaha!" Rotor said as he fell on the ground. Luckily he let go of the top of the machine so it didn't spill. He continued to laugh as Ford looked behind and around him.
"What's so funny?" he said, apparently not in a good mood.
"Hehehe, oh Ford thanks. I needed that. Look in a mirror." he said wiping the tears from his eyes.
"What?" he said looking in the mirror. The face looking back at him had a large black hand print on the right side. His hair looked like Sonic had ran by it several times and there was dark rings under his eyes. Turning his hands over he noticed that he didn't clean them first before going to bed.
"I need to get gloves like Mel's."
"Did she hit you?" Rotor asked setting the machine on a dolly.
"No!" he defensively replied. "I fell asleep on my hand. I slept in that chair you lent me."
"Didn't sleep well did you?"
"Actually I did. I'm more used to sleeping upright. One to many stakeouts. Hey thanks for helping make that A.I. for me. It's working well."
"Do you mind if I come look at it now?"
"No, please come. I'm still half-asleep and I have no idea how to use that machine you made."
They walked back over to his garage talking a bit about how things were going. Rotor was happy to see everyone with his or her families but was saddened at not being able to see his all that much.
"If I remember right you were able to liberate them from Robotnick control right?"
"Yeah I did. But them being those many miles away still hurts."
"Well at least there safe."
"That's true." he said as Ford opened the garage door.
"Took you long enough." Shelby said.
"That's gratitude for ya. I build the car up better, give it an A.I. and get sass."
"Not so loud Ford. Mel's still sleeping.
"Mel's here?" Rotor asked setting the machine down. As he unwound the spray hose from it he looked over the car.
"Yeah. But nothing happened."
Shelby broke in to there conversation and told them were to spray, how much, how long, how wide, that sort of thing.
"I have run the calculations. I can bring them up on the holoscreen if need...."
"We got it Shelby. You want it your way so we'll do it your way."
"Thank you." she said in a chirpy voice.
"Can you do the first coat. I can do the other coat after and more if there has to be he said looking at Shelby."
"Three coats according to my calculations should do it." Shelby said.
"Sure. I'll be able get a better look at her up close then. I have enough for five coats. Though I'd have to get the rest of the formula from my workshop. I have enough in this for three right now."
"Thanks Rotor. I'm going to check on Mel."
"She's just.."
"I want to do it myself Shelby."
Mel was sleeping peacefully with her back toward him. The covers were just above her waist. He was about to wake her when he thought he should freshen up first. He headed out saying he'd be right back. Fifteen minutes later he was back wearing a three piece blue suit, no tie. The shirt underneath was a white pearl button up, long sleeve.
"Looking good for something Ford or should I say someone?" Shelby asked as he walked in.
"Shelby, before I gave you an A.I. I never went anywhere in you unless it was like this. I'm not about to start changing that now."
"Class and style. I didn't know that about you. You do know how to treat a lady." Shelby said as he walked by.
Mel was still in the same position as he knelt down in front of her.
"Mel?" he said running a hand through the hair on her head.
"Hmmm?" she said with a smile. She stretched and placed her arms around his neck drawing him closer.
"Ah...Mel?" Ford said. He thought she was wake but enjoying the moment or something but figured out she was still asleep since she wasn't moving. "Mel?" he started to reach out to wake her when she kissed him. Her grip around his neck was stronger than he thought as he at first tried to pull away. He let it continue for a moment before finally shaking her. She woke up looking at straight at him. She was about to move when Rotor spoke up.
"Hey Ford, I finished the first coat for you. Give it about an hour and then you can put the next coat on. I'm going to go get breakfast before its all gone." he said as they heard the door shut.
"Good morning to you too. Not the way I planned it but I'm happier with the result." Ford said.
They both didn't move or speak for what seemed like hours when she finally spoke.
"What did happen last night?"
"You feel asleep at the table. I took off your work suit and gloves and shoes. I must say you have pretty feet. Put you in this bed, covered you with the blanket and then changed into something else and fell asleep in the recliner."
"And this morning?"
"Shelby wanted the coating put on so I went and got it. Rotor put of the first coat while I freshened up and then came over here. I was just going to wake you up and ask you what you wanted for breakfast. When I tried to wake you the first time," he said running a finger along her left arm, "you stretched and then placed your arms around my neck and drew me closer. I started to try again when you kissed me. I was trying to pull back, but I admit I was enjoying it so I let it continue. When I remembered we weren't alone I then woke you. You pretty much know the rest."
"And how far would you have let me gone if I stayed asleep?" she asked with a mischievous smile.
"Not far. Other than because I don't know how you would have reacted to waking up to that and because I believe we should wait till we get to know each other better. Main reason though, and no offence, being an overlander and not a Mobian, everyone would notice something because you all have a better sense of smell than us overlanders."
"True. In your case I can tell you used that new soap that that town up north created using cedar trees."
"Had I known I was going to be in this universe I would have brought other things with me. I was really into strawberry essences. Had candles, soaps, hair products. That cedar soap was the only thing there."
"I like it." she said sitting up and stretching again. Ford got off the floor and sat next to her. "Well I should get a shower and change of clothes and then we can eat."
"Great. Do you want to eat in the mess hall or.."
"Mess hall will work, besides I don't really care what anyone thinks about us being together and since some need to get used to it, now's the best time to let everyone see us."
"That works for me."
"Nice change of clothes. Any special occasion?" she said as she moved closer.
"Not really. I never have drove Shelby without something like this on." he said moving closer.
"Never?"
"Nev...." he was saying as they kissed again.
Sonic was making his famous chilidogs when Ford and Mel walked in. There were quite a few others inside talking and eating, but most were at home with family.
"Hey Sonic. What's cook'n.....wait dumb question right?"
"Ford that's getting old. You've been saying the same thing for weeks when you show up here." Sonic said shaking the spoon at him with a aggravated look.
"Sorry Sonic. I'll stop. So what else is on the menu except chilidogs."
He was telling them the different things when Tails and Sally walked in.
"Hey Ford. Ever get Blue Streak running?" Tails asked.
"Blue Streak?" Ford said with confusion all over his face.
"You know. That car that has Sonic's picture on it. Everyone's talking about you racing Sonic in the Great Unknown. It is called Blue Streak ain't it?"
"Well the race is happening, but where you heard that name," Ford was saying as he gave Sonic a dirty look, fortunately Sonic's back was too him, "I can't seem to figure out.
"It's the talk of the village right now. Everyone wants to know when it's going to happen since they're betting on the starting date." Sally explained. "As for the name Blue Streak, I heard it was because that's what would be left of your car after the race was finished. A long blue strip of parts."
"Can't imagine where that came from either, huh Sonic?"
"Not my bad. I told everyone that I was racing you but I didn't come up with that name nor had anything to do with it." Sonic said putting his hands in the air. Ford could tell Sonic was lying.
"Hmm. Alright Sonic. I'll believe that. But I seriously doubt you can beat me unless you use a power ring." Ford was saying as he took his plate away. Mel was laughing along with Sally and Tails as she followed him to a table in the corner. Sonic's jaw was hanging as they walked away which made Sally laugh harder when she saw his shocked look.
"Are you really going to try and beat him, we just rebuilt the engine and added all that new hardware. I don't want to see it all go up in smoke." she said as she started in. She had got a small salad along with a cheese and mushroom sandwich, grape juice and an apple. Ford had a chilidog, minus the chili, same juice, and apple and a larger portion of salad.
"That's why were doing the test drive, or at least you are and I'm watching. I pushed that engine to 300 miles and hour without problems. The onboard computer was able to handle things then so a A.I. computer should be able to handle things much better."
"Well don't get killed please."
"I won't, besides if things look like there going to go bad I can use the watch before anything happens. Trust me I've had experience with having to do that."
"I forgot about the watch. Yeah you will be fine then."
They were continuing to chat as others came in and left. Some gave them a questionable look, but most didn't seem to care. Tails asked Sonic about it when someone said something as they got their meal.
"They are together, or so they say. Nothing's happened yet though." Sonic said turning off the burner.
"Won't there be problems Sonic?"
"If there was Sally said she would handle it bud. Do you not like them being together?"
"She talked to me once saying she could relate to me since we both had no family. I told her you were my only family other than Aunt Sally and Bunnie, but she said that's not what she meant."
"She was meaning something like having someone to love wasn't she?"
"That's what I thought and when I asked she nodded and left."
"Don't worry about it Tails. Everything will work out." he said making himself a plate.
"Ah Sonic?"
"Yeah Tails."
"I think a fight is going to start."
"What?" Sonic said turning around. He dropped his chili spoon when he saw what was taking place.
Ford and Mel were still talking when a large wolf walked up. He had gray fur with a white chest. Wearing a vest and shorts with lots of pockets he placed his hands on their table rattling the plates. Ford had to grab his glass to keep it from falling over. Sally and Bunnie walked in as he had touched the table. They were headed over to where Sonic and Tails was, not noticing what was happening.
"Burt why are you here?" Mel asked dropping her fork.
"Seeing what your doing hanging with him."
Ford sized him up as he spoke. About 5'3, maybe 130 pounds, has a macho egotism outlook from the sounds of it. Basic jerk.
"I'm eating, what does it look like?" she said annoyed.
"It looks more like flirting to me." he said with annoyance in his voice as well. He drew closer to her as he spoke.
"So what if it I am."
"Then your in the wrong place, you see other than him being an overlander in a fancy getup, your suppose to be with me."
Ford was leaning back in his chair with his arms crossed listening to him blow his smoke. When he commented on Ford's suit, Ford straighten up and looked annoyed.
"I told you before Burt. I'M NOT INTERESTED!" she said as her voice rose. Burt was had his mouth halfway open to say something when Ford shook his head and spoke,
"Didn't you hear her. She said buzz off."
He slowly turned to look at Ford before leaning in close to him. His face was inches from Ford's when he spoke.
"So you think she's your now overlander! What makes you so much better than me?"
"Manners for one thing." Mel said.
Ford tried to suppress a short laugh but didn't succeed in keeping it in. "So you think that's funny huh?" he said grabbing the front of Ford's shirt. "Maybe after a few rounds you won't think that's so funny."
Ford looked down at Burt's hand then back at him. "I'm not fighting you. But if you don't remove your hand..."
"Typical overlander!" Burt said removing his hand and backing up. Placing his hands in the air he made a display of non-threatance. "The overlander just threatened me. Said he'd fight and hurt me if I didn't back off. You heard it didn't you?" he said pointing at a couple at the table next to them. They got up quickly and left.
Mel had her hand over her eyes and was facing the wall shaking her head before turning around. "Burt, go away! I was never interested in you. All you care about me is my good looks and that was it. No wonder you can't settle down. Jerk." As soon as she said jerk, everyone in the place either back up a bit of left, with he exception of Sally, Tails, Bunnie and Sonic. Sally had Tails go get help.
Ford could swear Burt turned several shades of red as she spoke. After she called him a jerk his nostrils flared and he took a swing at her. Just before his fist connected, Ford had caught it. Mel had her eyes close and her hands up expecting to be punched out. She slowly opened her eyes to see his fist inches away and Ford holding his wrist. Ford's hand was slightly shaking as Burt was fighting against Ford's grip.
"I've had to deal with your type before Burt so don't make me use force. Just leave and I'll forget this." Burt was slightly startled for a moment to see that the overlander was taller than he was. Ford let go of his hand as Mel got up.
"My type! Oh now he labels me. I'm not a laboratory experiment that you can just study. Why don't you leave before I put you in the doctor's office." he said with a snarl.
"Has he always been like this?" Ford asked turning to Mel.
"FORD LOOK OUT!!!!" Mel yelled.
Burt sucker punched Ford on the left side of his face as he turned back. Ford put his hand out to keep from falling over and leaned against wall. Those left in the mess hall gasped or cried out in shock when Ford was hit. Burt took a fighting stance waiting for Ford's counterpunch.
"Well I can say I've been hit by worse." he said turning back to Burt. I'll give you that one since I should have seen it coming. Leave as I said before AND I'll forget this happened otherwise you can deal with them." Ford said pointing to the royal guards behind him. He moved his jaw around a few times testing it. Blood was running slowly down the left side of his mouth. Picking up the towel on the table nearby he watched Burt. Pouring water onto the towel he placed it on his face. Burt was looking back and forth like he was weighing his options. Ford placed his right foot onto his chair as Burt looked at Mel.
"If I can't have her then no on will!" he said moving toward her.
Time seemed to move slowly for Sally, Sonic and Bunnie as the guards tried to move in. Burt was moving toward her to strangle her and Ford pushed the chair which slid into him. He managed to keep from falling over by using the chair to break his fall. With a loud roar he threw the chair aside and rushed Ford. Ford dropped the towel as Burt ran forward to strangle him. Stepping aside Ford grabbed his right arm as he came by. Pulling on it, he placed it behind Burt's back pinning him to the wall. The wall shook from the impact and cracked. Burt shoved off the wall and broke free of Ford's grip. Turning quickly he threw a few punches at Ford. Ford managed to avoid them with ease and didn't fight back. One of the guards grabbed Burt from behind. Ford thought it was over and went to check Mel. Burt let out a roar of anger, turned around decking the guard. Ford didn't see as Burt charged into him sending them through the wall.
CRASH!
Ford rolled Burt off him only to be picked up by the guards. Even though Ford didn't fight them they still were a little to rough. The same thing happened to Burt but he fought back.
"Hey guys, take it easy on the suit." Ford said as they started to pick him up into the air.
"HOLD IT! WAIT!" Sally yelled coming out.
"Princess!" they all said. Those that could saluted.
"Release the overlander and take Burt to my father. Let him deal with this. Tell him that Burt started the fight and that Ford tried everything to avoid it. You that saw what happened tell him as well."
"Yes princess." they said following orders.
"Thanks Sally." he said brushing himself off and then straightening it out his coat before going back in, through the hole in the wall. Mel was sitting at a table looking ready to cry. When she saw him come in she ran over and cried in his chest.
"He's gone now. He can't hurt you anymore." he said in her ear as she held him close.
"I was hoping he would have got the message and left, but he kept coming back. I should have got help sooner." she said between sobs.
"Ford are you all right. That was quite a sucker punch he gave you." Sonic said picking up a fallen chair to get to them.
"I'm fine. Sore, but fine. I'm going to take her home."
"Good idea. Thanks for not tearing up the place with a big fight." Sally said coming over.
"Forget about it. I knew he wasn't going to stop but I tried to make him leave. Excuse me while I take her home."
Sally and Sonic watched them leave before talking.
"I was sure he was going to go berserk on that guy." Sonic said shaking his head.
"So was I. I was surprise he didn't come back with an counterattack after being hit. At least there isn't much to repair."
"Yup. I'll get Rotor and he'll have the wall fixed before dinner."
"What are you going to do?" she said giving him that look don't you dare run away.
"Eat lunch. They're fighting made me forget my chilidogs which are now cold." he said going to his chilidogs. Sally just shook her head.
Rotor was working on the waterwheel near the creek when Bunnie came over.
"Hey there Rotor. Whatcha up to?"
"The wheel's been squeaking lately and being slow. Just have to replace a few things and oil others."
"Need any help?"
"Thanks but I'm almost done anyway." he said turning the wrench.
"Sonic sent me over to tell you that the mess hall needs repair."
"What happened there. Sonic make another pot of chili that was too hot?" he said turning around with a laugh.
"No but that last time was funny wasn't it sug. Seeing sugah-hog actually race out was a first. He must'va stayed red all day." she said laughing with him.
"Then what did happen."
Bunnie told him what she saw.
"I'm not surprised to see a fight started. I've heard some of the folks talking about them being together. Alot of them want to know how far they planning on taking it, have they done this or that, you know. I just hope there won't be a riot on our hands."
"Me to sug. Me to."
"I better get that hole patched up, but I think you should tell Sally to get all of Knothole together so we can confront this before it gets out of hand."
"I was think'n the same thing."
Sally was talking to her father and mother, who had summoned her after seeing Burt.
"Sally dear, why did you let it go on as far as it did?" her mother asked.
"Which one, them being together or the fight?"
"The fight."
"I wanted to see how Ford would react. I know he's said he has alot of respect for us and has proved his loyalty several times but I wanted to see what he would do."
"From what I heard and your part of what happened, I must say he's proved to the Knothole that he doesn't fight unless he has to." Max said leaning back in his chair.
"I'm amazed at how he handled it dear. Most men wouldn't have as much restraint." Queen Alicia said looking at her husband. "Where did he go afterward."
"He took Melanie home. She was crying on him as they left."
"Has anyone else confronted them about their relationship?"
"Other than me and Sonic. No one."
They looked at the throne room door as it was knocked on. The guards looked to the king before opening. With a nod from him they opened it.
"Bunnie! Did something else happen?" Sally said with concern. Sally was walking to her as she came in.
"No Sally-girl everything's fine. I came to ask you somethi'n."
"Is it a private thing?"
"Oh no. Nothing like that. Rotor and I was talkin and figured that you should have all Knothole come to a town meeting so we can discuss them being together. Rotor thought it best to try something before it got out of hand."
"Excellent idea Bunnie. We can use the courtyard. Have flyers made so that everyone knows to show up tomorrow at noon. We can deal with this problem then." Max said leaning forward. "You and Sally can be in charge of setting it up. Me and Alicia will be there to answer any difficult questions or riotous act."
Sally and Bunnie nodded then left leaving the couple to talk other business.
"That was quick." Bunnie said.
"Father has a lot of respect for Ford since he's helped us lately. Robotnick hasn't been able to do almost anything anywhere since that last attack we pulled off. Besides that Ford was able to help Dr.Quack to possibly find a way to make dad walk again. I'm more surprised he hasn't demanded anything for his help."
"What about Blue Streak?"
Sally laughed at the comment having to hold onto Bunnie to keep from falling over.
"What'd I say?"
Sally told her of the conversation she heard between Sonic and Ford and what Blue Streak really was referring to. Bunnie cracked up as well. After the good laugh they continued on.
"As for his car, Shelby he calls her, he asked for everything from my father, which he granted. He just came in one day and handed him a list of things he'd like to have to repair his car. Ford said he'd help in anyway to make up for the parts and equipment. Other than a few trips to Robotropolis for some of them, dad didn't say he couldn't do it."
"Was there anything that was denied?"
"Dad didn't approve the building of a grenade launcher, which Ford said he understood why that was a no-no from what dad said he said. So Ford gave the ammo he had for it to the armory. The only thing I didn't approve of was dad returning that large rifle back to him."
"What did Ford do with it?"
"Put it in that garage with everything else. Since no one else can use it, I shouldn't really worry, but I still do."
They chitchatted about female things as they headed to the flyer office.
Ford opened the door to her hut, with slight difficulty since she wanted to be carried home. He ignored the stares as he carried her home. After getting the door open he closed it quickly as soon as he got it. She had fallen asleep in his arms after crying everything out. Placing her on the bed he pulled up a chair and watched her. At first she seemed at peace but then looked to be having a nightmare. Moving to the bed he gently woke her.
Waking with a start she looked around defensively. Upon seeing Ford she grabbed him in what he would call a bear hug.
"Uhhh....mmmm....Mel.....You're.......squeezing too hard." he said in a strained voice.
"Sorry." she said letting up but not letting go.
"You were having a nightmare weren't you?"
"Yeah. Burt was in it and he was chasing me. I kept calling out for you, anyone to help but no one came."
"He's not here now. I won't let him near you ever again. Try not to think about it."
"Then give me something else to think about."
"Well.......the car needs finishing but I wasn't going to bring that up till you felt better."
She brightened up at the mention of the car. "Hey! That's a great idea. I know that will keep my mind off..."
"Don't think about it anymore, the less you try to remember the quicker it will go away."
Giving him a quick kiss she practically dragged him off the bed and headed out quickly.
Shelby was monitoring things here and there in the miles around them as Ford and Mel walked in.
"Feeling better?" she asked them both.
"Yeah." they said in unison.
"Great! Now get spraying."
"She doesn't waste anytime." Ford said getting there work clothes.
Mel laughed a bit as she put hers on. Ford took a little more time since he had to get out of the suit. He left the pants on.
Several hours later the Shelby was complete. It was 6:03 and with some daylight left they decided to do the test run. Shelby power up as they got in. Ford sat passenger.
"Here's a list I made of the things I wanted to test."
"Why's this one crossed out?" Mel asked putting her seat belt on.
"That's that device you put on down there. I know it works and I'm using it in the race with Sonic."
"What does it do?"
"That's a surprise I'm keeping to myself. Sorry."
"Nothing dangerous I hope?"
"Not dangerous at all. All right. Remember what I told you."
"Let's see. First press on the brake here and clutch. Start the engine by turning the key."
"I've already done that. So put it in 1st gear so we can go." Shelby said with impatience in her voice.
"All right first gear it is." Mel said shifting from neutral too first.
On a small screen on the dashboard came up the message, LASER RESTRAINT SYSTEM ACTIVATED. TURBO BOOST ACTIVATE.
"OH SMEG! MEL HANG ON!"
"WHAAAAA!" She said as Shelby activated the turbo boost system.
A loud whoosh like sound came out from the building followed by the sound of splintering wood as Shelby came flying out of the garage door. Landing about 30 feet away she stopped.
"Oh YEAH! That felt good." Shelby said as she revved herself a few times. "All right you can take over now Mel." she said. On a section of the dash a light switched over from auto to manual. They both looked at each other with scared expressions.
"What the hell was that for Shelby?! You trying to give us a heart attack?!"
"No. I was testing if it worked and how I faired against that sort of obstacle. All systems are fully operational. Tires still full. Shocks working at 100% along with everything else, except you two. Now are we going to go or sit and talk?"
"I think maybe Rotor needs to mellow your program a bit."
"Try it. You won't get far. I like the way I am. If your so upset with what I did then next time I'll tell you what I'm about to do before I do it. Deal?"
"Mel?"
"Yeah that works for me." she said holding the steering wheel a little too tight.
"Good then let's go. We have a crowd watching and I need to strut my stuff."
"Strut you stuff?" Mel and Ford said in unison.
"You going to drive or what?" Shelby said going back to auto. She started inching forward.
"All right, all right. I'll drive." Mel said switching back to manual. With the car still in first she took off at 10 miles and hour heading for a large open clearing.
"Come on....Sonic doesn't even walk this slow." Shelby complained.
"I promised Sally that we wouldn't tear up the ground around here till we got to that clearing and beyond. If you don't like it take it up with her."
"Oh. Never mind then."
"She mellowed out quickly. Too quickly. Did Sally do something to you in your programming that allows her to take control at anytime?"
"Ummmmmmmmmmm........yes." Shelby said in a small voice.
"Interesting to know."
"Don't get any bright idea's Ford."
Mel guided the Cobra around a stump as she came into the clearing. Shelby then proceeded to tell Mel the different maneuvers to make. Over the next two hours she did a few brodies, a couple of jumps, some quick speed-ups followed by quick slow downs. Several times Shelby made the Mel drive sideways by using the new system Ford built causing the wheels to turn sideways. The second to last thing was driving in ski mode. Mel wasn't so sure about trying this way but did after some coaxing from Ford.
"I used to do it without computer help, so for you this should be a cinch."
Mel drove around on two wheels, both sides, for a few minutes and almost tipped the car once, but Shelby took over quickly and set herself back on all four wheels.
"One more test to go, I'll take over from here." Shelby said heading out of the clearing and around some trees.
"I don't remember there needing to be anymore test?" Ford said looking at a chart in his lap.
"One I had Sonic some friends make."
As they rounded a corner of trees, they noticed piles of rocks inside a steel section of girders.
"Is she going to do what I think she's going to do?" Mel asked with wide eyes.
"Shelby are you going to..."
"Test my durability on that. Yes I am. If you want to get out I suggest you do so now, but you'll be called sissy if you do."
"Why is that?"
"Cause I told them to. Doesn't qualify for Mel though."
"Well if Ford's staying I'm staying." she said grabbing the seat belt.
Sonic was watching with everyone else as the car backed up as far as it could touching a tree behind it. The target was five feet thick with rocks being held up by metal scaffolding.
"Is Ford going to try and go through that thing?!" Sally said running up. "If he is, go and stop him. I don't need needless deaths on my hands. I've unfortunately got enough already."
"Don't worry Sal. Shelby said she wanted this to jump over it."
"Are you sure?"
"Absolutely." he said with a wave of his hand. "But now that you mention it.."
"Go find out befor.."
With a mighty squeal of the tires as it tore up the ground Shelby headed right for the target. Mel closed her eyes and so did alot of others. Sally started screaming with others in the crowd for them to stop. Sonic didn't think of trying to stop them with his speed until they had already went through it. As Shelby neared the target, she activated the turbo boost.
Rocks and metal flew in different directions as the Mustang plowed through the target. Landing with a jolt, Shelby did a 180 and came to a complete stop.
Ford noticed he needed to breath and let out a audible whoosh.
Mel slowly opened one and then the other.
"Are we alive?"
"I certainly hope so. Wouldn't have made me feel great to die before getting closer to you. Shelby, report!"
"Wait......hmmmm. Other than pulling out the hood pin.....everything's 100% operational. You may applause you hard work anytime. Meaning me."
Mel climbed out first, shakily. Ford came out next and checked the hood.
"Lost a cotter pin. Bummer."
"I can detect it about three meters off to your right."
"How is it possible?"
"It has the formula on it."
"Right. Mel you ok?"
"Muscles really ache but, yeah I'm ok." she said rubbing her arms.
"Do you want to do this again?"
"Anytime but right now."
Everyone came running up applauding and asking questions. Ford and Mel answered what they could, but Shelby hogged most of the glory. Ford managed to find the cotter pin and put it back in. Took him a moment to bend it though.
"That was a stupid stunt you pulled Ford. Someone could have got hurt." Sally said turning him around to face her.
"As dumb as this sounds I had nothing to do with this."
"Oh, like I'll believe Mel wanted to try this."
"No it's all Shelby's fault. Even ask Sonic. Even better ask the car."
"Yes Princess Sally. I did this on my own. I was testing my durability." Shelby said. "I wasn't told I couldn't do it and no one knew I was going to do it."
"We'll deal with this later. Here. I was going to give it to you tomorrow, but now is a better time than any." she said handing him a note. "Was anyone hurt?" Sally asked, turning to the crowd.
"Nope. Everyone was far enough back as I told Sonic to keep them and I did a quick scan after the crash through the wall and no one was hit by anything." Shelby said proudly.
Shaking her head, she threw her hands in the air indicating she didn't care anymore. "I'm going to bed."
"Took that pretty well I think." Ford said after she left. After everyone started to disperse, Shelby said she wanted a wash.
"What?" Ford said flabbergasted.
"Just kidding. It's suppose to rain tonight so I'll park myself somewhere where I'll get washed off by Mother Nature. You two go get dinner and some sleep."
"I think that Shelby cares more about us that she let's on." Ford said watching her drive away.
"True, but don't tell anyone I said that. Also because your the only two who understand me inside and out. If I'm seriously damaged, you're the only two that can fix me." her voice said coming over Ford's comlink in the watch.
Opening the note it read:
At noon tomorrow there is to be held a meeting in the courtyard of the castle. You and Mel are ordered to attend. My parents are going to address the issue of you and Mel being together with everyone present. Don't worry about having any trouble with mom and dad. They are on your side. Sally
"Hmm. At least we have friends in high places."
"Can I sleep with you tonight?" Seeing Ford jump slightly she laughed. "I didn't mean it that way. I just want you near so I feel safer."
"Yeah I can do that."
Thunder was heard in the distance as they walked to her hut.
Authors note: Riding Bean, if you know what anime it is, then you're on the ball. For THOSE WHO DON'T, take a car and make the wheels to turn sideways, either way, and drive that way. You'll see it later in the story.
The next morning was a awake with lots of joy and laughter in the air as it had been for the last couple of weeks. Some were still weeping for joy at seeing families reunited. Sonic was sleeping in as usual. Shelby woke Ford at 10:00 saying he had enough sleep and to go get the formula. After grumbling a bit he left to get it. Mel continued to sleep. Tails was already up playing tag with Dulcy. Antoine was showing his father more of his cooking skills. Ford had mentioned several weeks ago that what Antoine made up in his cooking covered his cowardice. Sonic agreed but said it would be best to keep that between them. Bunnie was helping things get ready to open the school again. King Max and a few other parents thought it best to wait awhile for everyone to settle in and enjoy having family time before starting the school.
Rotor was putting the last of the formula inside a spraying machine when Ford walked in.
"Morning Ford, I'm almo....hahahahahaha!" Rotor said as he fell on the ground. Luckily he let go of the top of the machine so it didn't spill. He continued to laugh as Ford looked behind and around him.
"What's so funny?" he said, apparently not in a good mood.
"Hehehe, oh Ford thanks. I needed that. Look in a mirror." he said wiping the tears from his eyes.
"What?" he said looking in the mirror. The face looking back at him had a large black hand print on the right side. His hair looked like Sonic had ran by it several times and there was dark rings under his eyes. Turning his hands over he noticed that he didn't clean them first before going to bed.
"I need to get gloves like Mel's."
"Did she hit you?" Rotor asked setting the machine on a dolly.
"No!" he defensively replied. "I fell asleep on my hand. I slept in that chair you lent me."
"Didn't sleep well did you?"
"Actually I did. I'm more used to sleeping upright. One to many stakeouts. Hey thanks for helping make that A.I. for me. It's working well."
"Do you mind if I come look at it now?"
"No, please come. I'm still half-asleep and I have no idea how to use that machine you made."
They walked back over to his garage talking a bit about how things were going. Rotor was happy to see everyone with his or her families but was saddened at not being able to see his all that much.
"If I remember right you were able to liberate them from Robotnick control right?"
"Yeah I did. But them being those many miles away still hurts."
"Well at least there safe."
"That's true." he said as Ford opened the garage door.
"Took you long enough." Shelby said.
"That's gratitude for ya. I build the car up better, give it an A.I. and get sass."
"Not so loud Ford. Mel's still sleeping.
"Mel's here?" Rotor asked setting the machine down. As he unwound the spray hose from it he looked over the car.
"Yeah. But nothing happened."
Shelby broke in to there conversation and told them were to spray, how much, how long, how wide, that sort of thing.
"I have run the calculations. I can bring them up on the holoscreen if need...."
"We got it Shelby. You want it your way so we'll do it your way."
"Thank you." she said in a chirpy voice.
"Can you do the first coat. I can do the other coat after and more if there has to be he said looking at Shelby."
"Three coats according to my calculations should do it." Shelby said.
"Sure. I'll be able get a better look at her up close then. I have enough for five coats. Though I'd have to get the rest of the formula from my workshop. I have enough in this for three right now."
"Thanks Rotor. I'm going to check on Mel."
"She's just.."
"I want to do it myself Shelby."
Mel was sleeping peacefully with her back toward him. The covers were just above her waist. He was about to wake her when he thought he should freshen up first. He headed out saying he'd be right back. Fifteen minutes later he was back wearing a three piece blue suit, no tie. The shirt underneath was a white pearl button up, long sleeve.
"Looking good for something Ford or should I say someone?" Shelby asked as he walked in.
"Shelby, before I gave you an A.I. I never went anywhere in you unless it was like this. I'm not about to start changing that now."
"Class and style. I didn't know that about you. You do know how to treat a lady." Shelby said as he walked by.
Mel was still in the same position as he knelt down in front of her.
"Mel?" he said running a hand through the hair on her head.
"Hmmm?" she said with a smile. She stretched and placed her arms around his neck drawing him closer.
"Ah...Mel?" Ford said. He thought she was wake but enjoying the moment or something but figured out she was still asleep since she wasn't moving. "Mel?" he started to reach out to wake her when she kissed him. Her grip around his neck was stronger than he thought as he at first tried to pull away. He let it continue for a moment before finally shaking her. She woke up looking at straight at him. She was about to move when Rotor spoke up.
"Hey Ford, I finished the first coat for you. Give it about an hour and then you can put the next coat on. I'm going to go get breakfast before its all gone." he said as they heard the door shut.
"Good morning to you too. Not the way I planned it but I'm happier with the result." Ford said.
They both didn't move or speak for what seemed like hours when she finally spoke.
"What did happen last night?"
"You feel asleep at the table. I took off your work suit and gloves and shoes. I must say you have pretty feet. Put you in this bed, covered you with the blanket and then changed into something else and fell asleep in the recliner."
"And this morning?"
"Shelby wanted the coating put on so I went and got it. Rotor put of the first coat while I freshened up and then came over here. I was just going to wake you up and ask you what you wanted for breakfast. When I tried to wake you the first time," he said running a finger along her left arm, "you stretched and then placed your arms around my neck and drew me closer. I started to try again when you kissed me. I was trying to pull back, but I admit I was enjoying it so I let it continue. When I remembered we weren't alone I then woke you. You pretty much know the rest."
"And how far would you have let me gone if I stayed asleep?" she asked with a mischievous smile.
"Not far. Other than because I don't know how you would have reacted to waking up to that and because I believe we should wait till we get to know each other better. Main reason though, and no offence, being an overlander and not a Mobian, everyone would notice something because you all have a better sense of smell than us overlanders."
"True. In your case I can tell you used that new soap that that town up north created using cedar trees."
"Had I known I was going to be in this universe I would have brought other things with me. I was really into strawberry essences. Had candles, soaps, hair products. That cedar soap was the only thing there."
"I like it." she said sitting up and stretching again. Ford got off the floor and sat next to her. "Well I should get a shower and change of clothes and then we can eat."
"Great. Do you want to eat in the mess hall or.."
"Mess hall will work, besides I don't really care what anyone thinks about us being together and since some need to get used to it, now's the best time to let everyone see us."
"That works for me."
"Nice change of clothes. Any special occasion?" she said as she moved closer.
"Not really. I never have drove Shelby without something like this on." he said moving closer.
"Never?"
"Nev...." he was saying as they kissed again.
Sonic was making his famous chilidogs when Ford and Mel walked in. There were quite a few others inside talking and eating, but most were at home with family.
"Hey Sonic. What's cook'n.....wait dumb question right?"
"Ford that's getting old. You've been saying the same thing for weeks when you show up here." Sonic said shaking the spoon at him with a aggravated look.
"Sorry Sonic. I'll stop. So what else is on the menu except chilidogs."
He was telling them the different things when Tails and Sally walked in.
"Hey Ford. Ever get Blue Streak running?" Tails asked.
"Blue Streak?" Ford said with confusion all over his face.
"You know. That car that has Sonic's picture on it. Everyone's talking about you racing Sonic in the Great Unknown. It is called Blue Streak ain't it?"
"Well the race is happening, but where you heard that name," Ford was saying as he gave Sonic a dirty look, fortunately Sonic's back was too him, "I can't seem to figure out.
"It's the talk of the village right now. Everyone wants to know when it's going to happen since they're betting on the starting date." Sally explained. "As for the name Blue Streak, I heard it was because that's what would be left of your car after the race was finished. A long blue strip of parts."
"Can't imagine where that came from either, huh Sonic?"
"Not my bad. I told everyone that I was racing you but I didn't come up with that name nor had anything to do with it." Sonic said putting his hands in the air. Ford could tell Sonic was lying.
"Hmm. Alright Sonic. I'll believe that. But I seriously doubt you can beat me unless you use a power ring." Ford was saying as he took his plate away. Mel was laughing along with Sally and Tails as she followed him to a table in the corner. Sonic's jaw was hanging as they walked away which made Sally laugh harder when she saw his shocked look.
"Are you really going to try and beat him, we just rebuilt the engine and added all that new hardware. I don't want to see it all go up in smoke." she said as she started in. She had got a small salad along with a cheese and mushroom sandwich, grape juice and an apple. Ford had a chilidog, minus the chili, same juice, and apple and a larger portion of salad.
"That's why were doing the test drive, or at least you are and I'm watching. I pushed that engine to 300 miles and hour without problems. The onboard computer was able to handle things then so a A.I. computer should be able to handle things much better."
"Well don't get killed please."
"I won't, besides if things look like there going to go bad I can use the watch before anything happens. Trust me I've had experience with having to do that."
"I forgot about the watch. Yeah you will be fine then."
They were continuing to chat as others came in and left. Some gave them a questionable look, but most didn't seem to care. Tails asked Sonic about it when someone said something as they got their meal.
"They are together, or so they say. Nothing's happened yet though." Sonic said turning off the burner.
"Won't there be problems Sonic?"
"If there was Sally said she would handle it bud. Do you not like them being together?"
"She talked to me once saying she could relate to me since we both had no family. I told her you were my only family other than Aunt Sally and Bunnie, but she said that's not what she meant."
"She was meaning something like having someone to love wasn't she?"
"That's what I thought and when I asked she nodded and left."
"Don't worry about it Tails. Everything will work out." he said making himself a plate.
"Ah Sonic?"
"Yeah Tails."
"I think a fight is going to start."
"What?" Sonic said turning around. He dropped his chili spoon when he saw what was taking place.
Ford and Mel were still talking when a large wolf walked up. He had gray fur with a white chest. Wearing a vest and shorts with lots of pockets he placed his hands on their table rattling the plates. Ford had to grab his glass to keep it from falling over. Sally and Bunnie walked in as he had touched the table. They were headed over to where Sonic and Tails was, not noticing what was happening.
"Burt why are you here?" Mel asked dropping her fork.
"Seeing what your doing hanging with him."
Ford sized him up as he spoke. About 5'3, maybe 130 pounds, has a macho egotism outlook from the sounds of it. Basic jerk.
"I'm eating, what does it look like?" she said annoyed.
"It looks more like flirting to me." he said with annoyance in his voice as well. He drew closer to her as he spoke.
"So what if it I am."
"Then your in the wrong place, you see other than him being an overlander in a fancy getup, your suppose to be with me."
Ford was leaning back in his chair with his arms crossed listening to him blow his smoke. When he commented on Ford's suit, Ford straighten up and looked annoyed.
"I told you before Burt. I'M NOT INTERESTED!" she said as her voice rose. Burt was had his mouth halfway open to say something when Ford shook his head and spoke,
"Didn't you hear her. She said buzz off."
He slowly turned to look at Ford before leaning in close to him. His face was inches from Ford's when he spoke.
"So you think she's your now overlander! What makes you so much better than me?"
"Manners for one thing." Mel said.
Ford tried to suppress a short laugh but didn't succeed in keeping it in. "So you think that's funny huh?" he said grabbing the front of Ford's shirt. "Maybe after a few rounds you won't think that's so funny."
Ford looked down at Burt's hand then back at him. "I'm not fighting you. But if you don't remove your hand..."
"Typical overlander!" Burt said removing his hand and backing up. Placing his hands in the air he made a display of non-threatance. "The overlander just threatened me. Said he'd fight and hurt me if I didn't back off. You heard it didn't you?" he said pointing at a couple at the table next to them. They got up quickly and left.
Mel had her hand over her eyes and was facing the wall shaking her head before turning around. "Burt, go away! I was never interested in you. All you care about me is my good looks and that was it. No wonder you can't settle down. Jerk." As soon as she said jerk, everyone in the place either back up a bit of left, with he exception of Sally, Tails, Bunnie and Sonic. Sally had Tails go get help.
Ford could swear Burt turned several shades of red as she spoke. After she called him a jerk his nostrils flared and he took a swing at her. Just before his fist connected, Ford had caught it. Mel had her eyes close and her hands up expecting to be punched out. She slowly opened her eyes to see his fist inches away and Ford holding his wrist. Ford's hand was slightly shaking as Burt was fighting against Ford's grip.
"I've had to deal with your type before Burt so don't make me use force. Just leave and I'll forget this." Burt was slightly startled for a moment to see that the overlander was taller than he was. Ford let go of his hand as Mel got up.
"My type! Oh now he labels me. I'm not a laboratory experiment that you can just study. Why don't you leave before I put you in the doctor's office." he said with a snarl.
"Has he always been like this?" Ford asked turning to Mel.
"FORD LOOK OUT!!!!" Mel yelled.
Burt sucker punched Ford on the left side of his face as he turned back. Ford put his hand out to keep from falling over and leaned against wall. Those left in the mess hall gasped or cried out in shock when Ford was hit. Burt took a fighting stance waiting for Ford's counterpunch.
"Well I can say I've been hit by worse." he said turning back to Burt. I'll give you that one since I should have seen it coming. Leave as I said before AND I'll forget this happened otherwise you can deal with them." Ford said pointing to the royal guards behind him. He moved his jaw around a few times testing it. Blood was running slowly down the left side of his mouth. Picking up the towel on the table nearby he watched Burt. Pouring water onto the towel he placed it on his face. Burt was looking back and forth like he was weighing his options. Ford placed his right foot onto his chair as Burt looked at Mel.
"If I can't have her then no on will!" he said moving toward her.
Time seemed to move slowly for Sally, Sonic and Bunnie as the guards tried to move in. Burt was moving toward her to strangle her and Ford pushed the chair which slid into him. He managed to keep from falling over by using the chair to break his fall. With a loud roar he threw the chair aside and rushed Ford. Ford dropped the towel as Burt ran forward to strangle him. Stepping aside Ford grabbed his right arm as he came by. Pulling on it, he placed it behind Burt's back pinning him to the wall. The wall shook from the impact and cracked. Burt shoved off the wall and broke free of Ford's grip. Turning quickly he threw a few punches at Ford. Ford managed to avoid them with ease and didn't fight back. One of the guards grabbed Burt from behind. Ford thought it was over and went to check Mel. Burt let out a roar of anger, turned around decking the guard. Ford didn't see as Burt charged into him sending them through the wall.
CRASH!
Ford rolled Burt off him only to be picked up by the guards. Even though Ford didn't fight them they still were a little to rough. The same thing happened to Burt but he fought back.
"Hey guys, take it easy on the suit." Ford said as they started to pick him up into the air.
"HOLD IT! WAIT!" Sally yelled coming out.
"Princess!" they all said. Those that could saluted.
"Release the overlander and take Burt to my father. Let him deal with this. Tell him that Burt started the fight and that Ford tried everything to avoid it. You that saw what happened tell him as well."
"Yes princess." they said following orders.
"Thanks Sally." he said brushing himself off and then straightening it out his coat before going back in, through the hole in the wall. Mel was sitting at a table looking ready to cry. When she saw him come in she ran over and cried in his chest.
"He's gone now. He can't hurt you anymore." he said in her ear as she held him close.
"I was hoping he would have got the message and left, but he kept coming back. I should have got help sooner." she said between sobs.
"Ford are you all right. That was quite a sucker punch he gave you." Sonic said picking up a fallen chair to get to them.
"I'm fine. Sore, but fine. I'm going to take her home."
"Good idea. Thanks for not tearing up the place with a big fight." Sally said coming over.
"Forget about it. I knew he wasn't going to stop but I tried to make him leave. Excuse me while I take her home."
Sally and Sonic watched them leave before talking.
"I was sure he was going to go berserk on that guy." Sonic said shaking his head.
"So was I. I was surprise he didn't come back with an counterattack after being hit. At least there isn't much to repair."
"Yup. I'll get Rotor and he'll have the wall fixed before dinner."
"What are you going to do?" she said giving him that look don't you dare run away.
"Eat lunch. They're fighting made me forget my chilidogs which are now cold." he said going to his chilidogs. Sally just shook her head.
Rotor was working on the waterwheel near the creek when Bunnie came over.
"Hey there Rotor. Whatcha up to?"
"The wheel's been squeaking lately and being slow. Just have to replace a few things and oil others."
"Need any help?"
"Thanks but I'm almost done anyway." he said turning the wrench.
"Sonic sent me over to tell you that the mess hall needs repair."
"What happened there. Sonic make another pot of chili that was too hot?" he said turning around with a laugh.
"No but that last time was funny wasn't it sug. Seeing sugah-hog actually race out was a first. He must'va stayed red all day." she said laughing with him.
"Then what did happen."
Bunnie told him what she saw.
"I'm not surprised to see a fight started. I've heard some of the folks talking about them being together. Alot of them want to know how far they planning on taking it, have they done this or that, you know. I just hope there won't be a riot on our hands."
"Me to sug. Me to."
"I better get that hole patched up, but I think you should tell Sally to get all of Knothole together so we can confront this before it gets out of hand."
"I was think'n the same thing."
Sally was talking to her father and mother, who had summoned her after seeing Burt.
"Sally dear, why did you let it go on as far as it did?" her mother asked.
"Which one, them being together or the fight?"
"The fight."
"I wanted to see how Ford would react. I know he's said he has alot of respect for us and has proved his loyalty several times but I wanted to see what he would do."
"From what I heard and your part of what happened, I must say he's proved to the Knothole that he doesn't fight unless he has to." Max said leaning back in his chair.
"I'm amazed at how he handled it dear. Most men wouldn't have as much restraint." Queen Alicia said looking at her husband. "Where did he go afterward."
"He took Melanie home. She was crying on him as they left."
"Has anyone else confronted them about their relationship?"
"Other than me and Sonic. No one."
They looked at the throne room door as it was knocked on. The guards looked to the king before opening. With a nod from him they opened it.
"Bunnie! Did something else happen?" Sally said with concern. Sally was walking to her as she came in.
"No Sally-girl everything's fine. I came to ask you somethi'n."
"Is it a private thing?"
"Oh no. Nothing like that. Rotor and I was talkin and figured that you should have all Knothole come to a town meeting so we can discuss them being together. Rotor thought it best to try something before it got out of hand."
"Excellent idea Bunnie. We can use the courtyard. Have flyers made so that everyone knows to show up tomorrow at noon. We can deal with this problem then." Max said leaning forward. "You and Sally can be in charge of setting it up. Me and Alicia will be there to answer any difficult questions or riotous act."
Sally and Bunnie nodded then left leaving the couple to talk other business.
"That was quick." Bunnie said.
"Father has a lot of respect for Ford since he's helped us lately. Robotnick hasn't been able to do almost anything anywhere since that last attack we pulled off. Besides that Ford was able to help Dr.Quack to possibly find a way to make dad walk again. I'm more surprised he hasn't demanded anything for his help."
"What about Blue Streak?"
Sally laughed at the comment having to hold onto Bunnie to keep from falling over.
"What'd I say?"
Sally told her of the conversation she heard between Sonic and Ford and what Blue Streak really was referring to. Bunnie cracked up as well. After the good laugh they continued on.
"As for his car, Shelby he calls her, he asked for everything from my father, which he granted. He just came in one day and handed him a list of things he'd like to have to repair his car. Ford said he'd help in anyway to make up for the parts and equipment. Other than a few trips to Robotropolis for some of them, dad didn't say he couldn't do it."
"Was there anything that was denied?"
"Dad didn't approve the building of a grenade launcher, which Ford said he understood why that was a no-no from what dad said he said. So Ford gave the ammo he had for it to the armory. The only thing I didn't approve of was dad returning that large rifle back to him."
"What did Ford do with it?"
"Put it in that garage with everything else. Since no one else can use it, I shouldn't really worry, but I still do."
They chitchatted about female things as they headed to the flyer office.
Ford opened the door to her hut, with slight difficulty since she wanted to be carried home. He ignored the stares as he carried her home. After getting the door open he closed it quickly as soon as he got it. She had fallen asleep in his arms after crying everything out. Placing her on the bed he pulled up a chair and watched her. At first she seemed at peace but then looked to be having a nightmare. Moving to the bed he gently woke her.
Waking with a start she looked around defensively. Upon seeing Ford she grabbed him in what he would call a bear hug.
"Uhhh....mmmm....Mel.....You're.......squeezing too hard." he said in a strained voice.
"Sorry." she said letting up but not letting go.
"You were having a nightmare weren't you?"
"Yeah. Burt was in it and he was chasing me. I kept calling out for you, anyone to help but no one came."
"He's not here now. I won't let him near you ever again. Try not to think about it."
"Then give me something else to think about."
"Well.......the car needs finishing but I wasn't going to bring that up till you felt better."
She brightened up at the mention of the car. "Hey! That's a great idea. I know that will keep my mind off..."
"Don't think about it anymore, the less you try to remember the quicker it will go away."
Giving him a quick kiss she practically dragged him off the bed and headed out quickly.
Shelby was monitoring things here and there in the miles around them as Ford and Mel walked in.
"Feeling better?" she asked them both.
"Yeah." they said in unison.
"Great! Now get spraying."
"She doesn't waste anytime." Ford said getting there work clothes.
Mel laughed a bit as she put hers on. Ford took a little more time since he had to get out of the suit. He left the pants on.
Several hours later the Shelby was complete. It was 6:03 and with some daylight left they decided to do the test run. Shelby power up as they got in. Ford sat passenger.
"Here's a list I made of the things I wanted to test."
"Why's this one crossed out?" Mel asked putting her seat belt on.
"That's that device you put on down there. I know it works and I'm using it in the race with Sonic."
"What does it do?"
"That's a surprise I'm keeping to myself. Sorry."
"Nothing dangerous I hope?"
"Not dangerous at all. All right. Remember what I told you."
"Let's see. First press on the brake here and clutch. Start the engine by turning the key."
"I've already done that. So put it in 1st gear so we can go." Shelby said with impatience in her voice.
"All right first gear it is." Mel said shifting from neutral too first.
On a small screen on the dashboard came up the message, LASER RESTRAINT SYSTEM ACTIVATED. TURBO BOOST ACTIVATE.
"OH SMEG! MEL HANG ON!"
"WHAAAAA!" She said as Shelby activated the turbo boost system.
A loud whoosh like sound came out from the building followed by the sound of splintering wood as Shelby came flying out of the garage door. Landing about 30 feet away she stopped.
"Oh YEAH! That felt good." Shelby said as she revved herself a few times. "All right you can take over now Mel." she said. On a section of the dash a light switched over from auto to manual. They both looked at each other with scared expressions.
"What the hell was that for Shelby?! You trying to give us a heart attack?!"
"No. I was testing if it worked and how I faired against that sort of obstacle. All systems are fully operational. Tires still full. Shocks working at 100% along with everything else, except you two. Now are we going to go or sit and talk?"
"I think maybe Rotor needs to mellow your program a bit."
"Try it. You won't get far. I like the way I am. If your so upset with what I did then next time I'll tell you what I'm about to do before I do it. Deal?"
"Mel?"
"Yeah that works for me." she said holding the steering wheel a little too tight.
"Good then let's go. We have a crowd watching and I need to strut my stuff."
"Strut you stuff?" Mel and Ford said in unison.
"You going to drive or what?" Shelby said going back to auto. She started inching forward.
"All right, all right. I'll drive." Mel said switching back to manual. With the car still in first she took off at 10 miles and hour heading for a large open clearing.
"Come on....Sonic doesn't even walk this slow." Shelby complained.
"I promised Sally that we wouldn't tear up the ground around here till we got to that clearing and beyond. If you don't like it take it up with her."
"Oh. Never mind then."
"She mellowed out quickly. Too quickly. Did Sally do something to you in your programming that allows her to take control at anytime?"
"Ummmmmmmmmmm........yes." Shelby said in a small voice.
"Interesting to know."
"Don't get any bright idea's Ford."
Mel guided the Cobra around a stump as she came into the clearing. Shelby then proceeded to tell Mel the different maneuvers to make. Over the next two hours she did a few brodies, a couple of jumps, some quick speed-ups followed by quick slow downs. Several times Shelby made the Mel drive sideways by using the new system Ford built causing the wheels to turn sideways. The second to last thing was driving in ski mode. Mel wasn't so sure about trying this way but did after some coaxing from Ford.
"I used to do it without computer help, so for you this should be a cinch."
Mel drove around on two wheels, both sides, for a few minutes and almost tipped the car once, but Shelby took over quickly and set herself back on all four wheels.
"One more test to go, I'll take over from here." Shelby said heading out of the clearing and around some trees.
"I don't remember there needing to be anymore test?" Ford said looking at a chart in his lap.
"One I had Sonic some friends make."
As they rounded a corner of trees, they noticed piles of rocks inside a steel section of girders.
"Is she going to do what I think she's going to do?" Mel asked with wide eyes.
"Shelby are you going to..."
"Test my durability on that. Yes I am. If you want to get out I suggest you do so now, but you'll be called sissy if you do."
"Why is that?"
"Cause I told them to. Doesn't qualify for Mel though."
"Well if Ford's staying I'm staying." she said grabbing the seat belt.
Sonic was watching with everyone else as the car backed up as far as it could touching a tree behind it. The target was five feet thick with rocks being held up by metal scaffolding.
"Is Ford going to try and go through that thing?!" Sally said running up. "If he is, go and stop him. I don't need needless deaths on my hands. I've unfortunately got enough already."
"Don't worry Sal. Shelby said she wanted this to jump over it."
"Are you sure?"
"Absolutely." he said with a wave of his hand. "But now that you mention it.."
"Go find out befor.."
With a mighty squeal of the tires as it tore up the ground Shelby headed right for the target. Mel closed her eyes and so did alot of others. Sally started screaming with others in the crowd for them to stop. Sonic didn't think of trying to stop them with his speed until they had already went through it. As Shelby neared the target, she activated the turbo boost.
Rocks and metal flew in different directions as the Mustang plowed through the target. Landing with a jolt, Shelby did a 180 and came to a complete stop.
Ford noticed he needed to breath and let out a audible whoosh.
Mel slowly opened one and then the other.
"Are we alive?"
"I certainly hope so. Wouldn't have made me feel great to die before getting closer to you. Shelby, report!"
"Wait......hmmmm. Other than pulling out the hood pin.....everything's 100% operational. You may applause you hard work anytime. Meaning me."
Mel climbed out first, shakily. Ford came out next and checked the hood.
"Lost a cotter pin. Bummer."
"I can detect it about three meters off to your right."
"How is it possible?"
"It has the formula on it."
"Right. Mel you ok?"
"Muscles really ache but, yeah I'm ok." she said rubbing her arms.
"Do you want to do this again?"
"Anytime but right now."
Everyone came running up applauding and asking questions. Ford and Mel answered what they could, but Shelby hogged most of the glory. Ford managed to find the cotter pin and put it back in. Took him a moment to bend it though.
"That was a stupid stunt you pulled Ford. Someone could have got hurt." Sally said turning him around to face her.
"As dumb as this sounds I had nothing to do with this."
"Oh, like I'll believe Mel wanted to try this."
"No it's all Shelby's fault. Even ask Sonic. Even better ask the car."
"Yes Princess Sally. I did this on my own. I was testing my durability." Shelby said. "I wasn't told I couldn't do it and no one knew I was going to do it."
"We'll deal with this later. Here. I was going to give it to you tomorrow, but now is a better time than any." she said handing him a note. "Was anyone hurt?" Sally asked, turning to the crowd.
"Nope. Everyone was far enough back as I told Sonic to keep them and I did a quick scan after the crash through the wall and no one was hit by anything." Shelby said proudly.
Shaking her head, she threw her hands in the air indicating she didn't care anymore. "I'm going to bed."
"Took that pretty well I think." Ford said after she left. After everyone started to disperse, Shelby said she wanted a wash.
"What?" Ford said flabbergasted.
"Just kidding. It's suppose to rain tonight so I'll park myself somewhere where I'll get washed off by Mother Nature. You two go get dinner and some sleep."
"I think that Shelby cares more about us that she let's on." Ford said watching her drive away.
"True, but don't tell anyone I said that. Also because your the only two who understand me inside and out. If I'm seriously damaged, you're the only two that can fix me." her voice said coming over Ford's comlink in the watch.
Opening the note it read:
At noon tomorrow there is to be held a meeting in the courtyard of the castle. You and Mel are ordered to attend. My parents are going to address the issue of you and Mel being together with everyone present. Don't worry about having any trouble with mom and dad. They are on your side. Sally
"Hmm. At least we have friends in high places."
"Can I sleep with you tonight?" Seeing Ford jump slightly she laughed. "I didn't mean it that way. I just want you near so I feel safer."
"Yeah I can do that."
Thunder was heard in the distance as they walked to her hut.
