------------------------------------CHAPTER 9-------------------------------
Next day: 12:00
Everyone was finding places to sit or stand as King Max, Queen Alicia and Princess Sally came onto the podium. Everyone stopped talking as the Royal family took their seats. Ford and Mel were sitting off to Max's left. From what Ford was hearing from the crowd, before Max showed up, most were talking about the race tomorrow. They apparently thought Max was going to cancel it. Shelby was monitoring from outside the castle.
"Dear citizens of Knothole. Thank you for coming. I have heard that alot of you think that this meeting is about the race tomorrow. But it is not. I've seen everyone alot happier since Ford asked Sonic to race him, so it will continue. I have asked you here to discuss something else." he paused to watch the crowd. More than quite a few breathed a sigh of relief knowing the race was still on. Some cheered. Holding his hand up to quite them back down, Max continued.
"No doubt some of you have noticed these two together." Max said pointing at Ford and Mel. Eyes widened, gasped, or said what the...
"Other than one incident that Ford managed to keep from getting to far out of hand, no one else has complained. Ford and Mel have assured me that nothing has happened between them, but they are very much in love. You were all called here to voice your opinion. But first, my daughter would like to talk." As a guard wheeled Max back next to Queen Alicia, Sally came up.
"Knothole citizens, I can't speak for my parents on their thoughts but I have come to know Ford. He has helped us many times and never demanded anything in return."
"What about Blue Streak? How did he get the parts for it?" someone asked from the crowd.
Mel cracked up as Ford shook his head and covered his face with one hand. Shelby growled outside startling the guards. Over the com link she told Ford to address the issue.
Sally started to laugh but contained it but covering it with a cough as Ford walked up. "Sorry Sally but I have to stop this."
"What..." Sally said confused.
Ford leaned over to tell her what he was going to say.
Nodding her head in approval she stood back.
"First I formally asked the King for the parts. But I'm interrupting the Princess because I need to address this so called name Blue Streak. That's not her name. It's Shelby. For those who don't know, she is just like the Princesses handheld computer Nichole, only bigger. And my car is NOT going to be a large blue streak of parts stretched across the Great Unknown." Ford said looking at Sonic before nodding to Sally and then sitting back down. Over his intercom Shelby thanked him.
"Getting back to the reason were here today, I personally have no problem with them being together as long as they obey our laws. Several of the other Freedom Fighters have also agreed with me on this. Unless you have anything else to say Father, we'll start answering questions." Max shook his head.
"Think of this like a classroom, if you want to talk, hold up your hand."
Ford's eyes widened as he saw alot of hands go up. Oh great. I find someone with my interest and because I'm different everyone goes crazy. Looking over at Mel he smiled. She was looking lovely as ever as she looked out over the crowd.
When she finally noticed he was looking at her, "What?" she said with smile on her face. Ford said he was admiring the view.
She was still watching the crowd as Sally answered questions. Most of the questions pertained to what would the Royal Family do if Knothole refused to have them be together, why are they allowed to be together. Mel's demeanor changed to anger when someone started slandering her parents.
"Mel, we knew this was probably going to happen. Try not to do anything rash." Ford said holding her arm for a moment as she got up.
"I know.." she said walking over to the podium. Everyone grew quite as she asked Sally to let her talk.
"To whoever it was that said that those things about my parents, and I saw who you were but I'm not going to point you out, I had the misfortune of loose them during Robotnick's attack. I've had to live with things no one ever should and had to go through h...." she stopped a moment to compose herself. "I never knew who Ford was until someone told me about a bet that was going on. As everyone's families were getting back together during the deroboticization miracle, Ford was staying to himself inside that garage. The bet was to see if any woman could get him to talk or bring him out. They asked me because we had the same interest. I have had bad experiences with men in the past. Mostly because they only cared about my looks. In the beginning Ford was just someone who liked me because I could understand his car and knew how to help. Rotor was able to help but usually was busy elsewhere. As the weeks went by we grew closer. For those who may not believe the King, me and Ford have done nothing together. The closest we have got is kissing. I came to him, not vise versa." Mel turned to leave, "One more thing, my parents hated no one and was against fighting."
Mel started back over to her chair but turned and walked off the podium. The guards were about to stop her when the King motioned for them to let her pass. She walked somewhere into the castle with Ford close behind.
"Mel you all right?" he asked as they walked down a long hall.
"I know we talked about this happening..."
"Talk and hearing are very different. I know. They probably blame me for this. If I were to demand anything for all my help...it would be to marry you."
"Really?" she said with more love in her voice than surprise.
"Really. Whatever is said out there, I'm going to stay with you even if we have to leave. This may not be the Earth I once knew but not much has changed that I couldn't live off the land." he said taking her hands into his.
"That's so sweet." she said kissing him.
Sally, a few of the freedom fighters, and the Royal family watched for almost a minute when they decided to interrupt.
"Ahem."
They were still kissing until Sonic broke them up saying, "So Ford you still what to race?"
They broke apart suddenly startled that they were being watched.
"How long have you all been there?" Ford asked still holding Mel. She was still in his arms with her eyes closed.
"Long enough to have heard your conversation. Given all your help and that you are not like the overlanders we have had to deal with, most of Knothole has agreed to let you be together. Some others need time to adjust but there should be no more problems." King Max said. "As for marriage, do you two wish to wed now."
"Ah....Mel?" Ford said looking down at her.
"We'll think about it and then get back to you." Mel said looking at the King. "Thank you for addressing this. I'm glad to get it out of the way." she finished saying with a bow. Ford did the same, then watched them leave.
"So are you two racing me together?" Sonic asked.
"Yes and don't you dare say no." Mel said pointing her finger in his face.
"What?! If you came I'd feel better." Then looking not serious, "Mostly in case something goes wrong with Shelby and I need help." he said looking around funnily.
"What?!" she said playing along. "Come back here..." she said following him as he started running off.
"Those two have it bad." Sonic said to Sally. "Are you going to watch me make him eat my dust tomorrow?"
"Actually I'm going to watch him make you eat his dust." she said walking away playfully.
"What?! There's no way..." he said figuring she was joking with him but wasn't sure as he followed after.
Geoffrey was doing guard duty along with Hershey that night. They were discussing tactics and other guard stuff when they heard an all too familiar voice. Slowly moving forward they came upon Ford and Shelby.
"Were did you say it was?"
"Look, I told you were it was, bringing me along doesn't make finding it any easier." Shelby said in a low but grumbling voice.
"I don't have night vision and you're the one with the scanners, besides I want to try that device I found in Rotors workshop. I've been lucky so far that he hasn't noticed it missing."
"You'll just be along for the ride, I'm the one using the stupid thing. As far as my calculations go, I have an 83% chance of surviving when I use it. Just in case something was to go wrong I had Mel do a once over with the MBS spray on everything except the inside."
"Inside?"
"Were you sit and drive me. My engine got enough sprayed on it to help hold it together and to be able to withstand the extreme temperatures."
"Good thinking. Every little bit helps."
"Yes."
Geoffrey and Hershey followed them within a few meters as they moved forward still searching for something that Geoffrey still hadn't figured out yet. Some time over half an hour later............
"There it is. Off to your right a few feet."
"Shelby there's nothing that...."
"Dig."
"Be more specific."
With a low growl of annoyance Shelby told Ford were to walk to. Once there he had to use his hands to dig it up. Pulling it out of the ground Ford held it in front of Shelby's headlights.
"A small Chaos emerald. Incredible."
"Once you downloaded the comics into my CPU I did a little scanning around and found it here. That fight between Super Sonic and Hyper Knuckles caused a big explosion from what the book said, but I figured there had to be at least one that survived. I can detect others pieces around but only under a microscope will you see them."
"No rings?"
"Negative."
"All right overlander. Give that up, it belongs to the King."
"What?!" Ford said getting up quickly drawing one of his guns.
Geoffrey and Hershey stepped out from the tree there were behind. Hershey wasn't carrying a weapons but Geoffrey had his arm crossbow aimed at Ford. Ford had his revolver aimed at Geoffrey.
"Ah Geoffrey. Hershey." he said nodding to both of them.
"I will use force if I have to. And your car here will not save you. I have an EMP bomb, so don't try anything. Now drop your weapon and give over the emerald."
"Does he have a bomb Shelby?" Ford said not dropping his gun.
"He does but it won't work on me."
"Even if that's true overlander the King will believe me more than you, now give me the emerald!"
Holstering his gun, Ford tossed the green crystal into the air a few times. "And if I just give it to you, what then. You take it to Max and say you or me found it and that's it."
"Against my better judgment, yes."
"Well in that case." Ford said tossing it to Hershey.
Hershey caught it and placed it in her coat. Geoffrey lowered his weapon slowly.
"Next time you want to explore. Ask for an escort."
"You know what John, I will. Oh I just noticed something."
"What?" he said annoyed. He had his weapon ready to fire if Ford tried anything.
"You look tired, both of you in fact. I'd say you need some sleep."
"What?! Look here over.....what the." he said as a greenish gas came out the back of Shelby. Hershey was unfortunately closer and collapsed almost immediately. Ford walked over as Geoffrey tried to get off the ground.
"Cough...cough....I knew you couldn't be trusted....you murderous.."
"I didn't kill her. You're just going to sleep till sometime tomorrow, probably after the race you'll wake up. Night John."
The next day......Race Time!
Everyone was watching as Sonic did a few stretches and Ford looking Shelby over. Sally was talking to Sonic as was Tails.
"How far are you going Sonic?" Tails asked.
"Only a couple hundred miles Tails. Nothing I can't handle. Besides you and Dulcy will be watching from the air in case anything happens. This race will be way past cool."
"You got your power rings in case anything does happen Sonic?" Sally asked.
"Yep. Got three of them in this bag. Ford said to bring some just in case."
"Why so many?"
"So if I have to drag his car home." he said laughing.
"Seriously though Sonic." Sally said not impressed.
"Really. If something goes wrong he'll put it in....a...what was it he said...well something that will make it so it can be moved without using the engine."
"Great." Sally said shaking her head.
"Don't worry Sal. Nichole said everything would be cool. Besides we can call for help through Nichole it anything goes wrong."
Ford was getting a helmet from the trunk when Mel showed up. She was wearing a tight black suit that covered her up to her neck.
"Niiiiiiice." Ford said dragging out the word.
"Thanks. I made it a few weeks ago."
"Here. I have two of them in case anything happens to the first one." he said handing her a helmet. Both of them were blue with a picture of Sonic running on the side. He helped her put it on, which took some time since it kept tickling her ears. Putting on a pair of white racing gloves that matched his three piece white suit he got in the car.
"Ready to go Shelby?"
"Been waiting since you asked Sonic."
"Ready my dear?" he said kissing her hand.
Visible blushing she said yes and put on a similar pair of gloves that were black.
"Ready Sonic?"
"Way past!" he yelled.
"All right then!" Ford said starting the car. "Before we take off though I need that black thing near you feet."
"I don't remember seeing this before?" she said handing to him.
"My music CD's. I had them elsewhere at the time we were working so they didn't get damaged." Opening the case he fingered through it. "Ah! Here it is." he said placing the CD in the radio. Placing the case in the back seat he put it in gear and started to move to the starting line.
VVVVVVVVRrrrr..........click, click, click....
"FORD!!!" Shelby yelled.
Everyone went dead quiet as the car's engine just quit. Rotor was about to run up when Ford stuck his hand out the window waving him back.
"What happened?" Mel asked getting ready to get out.
"Don't get out. I just dropped the clutch. Must be nervous." he said starting it back up and moving to the starting line. Sonic and Ford decided to stay 30 feet apart from each other so as to make it easier to see them.
"What a way to start Ford. Embarrass me before we even get going." Shelby said.
"You dropped the clutch?" she asked.
"I didn't move my feet onto the right pedals in time and the car shut off."
As Sonic got into position Ford revved the engine a few times. Pressing play the theme music for "Back To The Future" came on the speakers.
"3...2...1! GO!!!!!!!" Bunnie said firing a starter pistol. POW!
Sonic took off fast as Ford peeled out. Sonic was over a mile away at first as Shelby got closer.
LASER RESTRAINT SYSTEM ACTIVATED came on the small screen in Shelby as they hit 250MPH on the digital speedometer. Sonic was sending up a large cloud of dust as he ran. Looking back he saw Ford right with him. Going into his signature figure eight run he pulled ahead. Ford floored the gas pedal as Sonic went ahead.
Dulcy and Tails were watching from the air the best they could. Tails was trying to narrate what he was seeing as Rotor used a camera to relay everything to several monitor screens down in the crowds.
At 400MPH Sonic felt excited until he saw the car still with him. Grabbing a power ring he took off in a blast of light.
"SONIC JUST USED A POWER RING AND HAS LEFT FORD IN THE DUST!" Tails yelled into the mike.
Ford watched as a bright light encompassed Sonic and sent him way ahead. Pressing a button on the dash, "If you all thought that was impressive or think that Sonic has won, then watch carefully."
Everyone was cheering along when they heard Ford's voice come through the speakers. Rotor zoomed in with the camera on Ford. Thanks to Dulcy being able to crack the whip as she calls it she was already above the finish line watching the front of them.
"Ford! Where did you get a Chaos emerald?" Mel asked as he placed it in a slot on top of the unknown device.
"Shelby found it." he said pulling a power ring out and putting it onto the device.
"Now I know why that looks familiar. Rotor was trying to build a device to harness the power of the rings to use for other things. How did you get it to work?"
"Luck mostly. Hang on!" he said flipping the switch. The ring and Chaos emerald glowed brightly encompassing the entire car.
"Sally, Ford has somehow managed to use a power ring." Nichole said showing her the reading on her screen.
"HOW?!"
"Unknown Sally. He also used a Chaos emerald."
"WHAT?!" Sally said with a scream.
"HEY EVERYONE, FORD'S CAR JUST TURNED A BRIGHT GLOW AND OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!" Tails said as they all heard what sounded like a large explosion. He watched as a fiery trail of fire came from where Shelby once was and continued past the finish line.
Out in Robotropolis, Robotnick was fuming because he couldn't do anything since the last few attack from the Freedom Fighters. He was looking at monitors when an orbital satellite picked up a large power reading.
Shelby could feel the power surge through her circuits and everything else as her speed went from 400 something to 700 something. She had to take over and activate the Emergency Braking System as Ford and Mel had passed out from the G-forces. Sand came inside the car at a speed that started ripping apart the interior, Ford and Shelby. Putting herself into reverse and turning off her engine she applied the brakes slowly.
Sonic was feeling great until a large cloud of dust passed by him. He stopped suddenly when he couldn't breath and then was nearly deafened by the sound of a large sonic boom next to him. He then rolled a few dozen feet on the ground as the shockwave hit him. Next was the heat wave that hit him last.
Dulcy, Rotor and Tails were watching as Shelby turned a brighter glow than Sonic ever did and then passed Sonic and zoomed right under them in a fiery trail. Luckily they were high enough that the dust cloud came up to them but not enough to cause them to lose flight. Dulcy managed to grab Tails and climb higher as the shockwave came at them.
Sally had a rescue team ready, in case something did happen. They and the rest of the Freedom Fighters headed out as everyone else was sent home to wait. Sally has placed a tracking device in Sonics shoe earlier just in case. According to Nichole, Sonic was alive and over three hundred miles away. Shelby was farther and still going.
"I knew this was a bad idea." She said getting into the plane.
Shelby had finally managed to slow herself down a few miles before reaching the other side of Great Unknown. Once she came to a complete stop she assessed her systems. Other than needed new tires, brakes, and a few other things she was still in driving condition. Turning around she headed back to Knothole on almost non-existent tires. Doing an internal scan on her two occupants, her scans showed they were alive, adrenalin rushed, covered with sand like the rest of her, and needing new clothes and medical attention. Shelby's upholstery was damaged by some of the sand, a few tears, missing button, more holes than anything. While Mel's fur had protected her from too much damage, Ford's face needed some help from the dermal regenerator. Several areas on his hands needed the dermal tool along with his legs and a few places higher up. Being he had a shirt, vest and coat on they took the brunt of the impact from the dust and mostly shredded it leaving him needing the medical tool there barely. Mel on the other hand little to nothing left except tethered remains of her black outfit. Luckily the helmet kept the dust and sand out of her ears. Since she had to sit on her tail it gave her more protection than Ford's briefs did for him.
"FORD YOU NEED TO WAKE UP!" Shelby yelled.
Using her venting system she got the dusty air out of the car and replaced it with pure oxygen. Mel stirred some but didn't wake up.
"FORD!!!!!!!"
Shaking awake Ford removed his racing glasses which were missing their lenses. His body felt terrible and drafty for some reason. His face felt worse and when he felt blood running down his face from several area's he grabbed the med kit from the back seat. Someone was talking to him but he couldn't make out much through the pain. Several minutes later and a hypo or two he started feeling better. Removing the helmet he glanced at it seeing it was ruined and tossed it in the back.
"Damn....must have not turned the watch in time......wait wasn't wearing a helmet when I was chasing those guys, I was......"
"FORD!!!!!!!"
"WWWAAAAAAAAA! WERE ARE YOU?! WHOS THERE?!" he said looking for his guns.
"Dammit Ford! You didn't lose your memory did you?"
"Huh? Oh Shelby. No I didn't lose my memory I just forgot where I was. What happened?"
"You passed out and didn't put enough plating around the cab unit to keep dust and sand out so now I need repairs. But I'd get to work on your girlfriend here."
Remembering her being in the car with him, he finally noticed her. More than noticed in fact before turning away. Looking at himself he nearly jumped out of the car.
"SHELBY! WHAT THE HECK HAPPENED?"
"Once you activated that ring device we went so fast dust and sand got inside and swirled around doing what you see. Luckily you were passed out when it happened otherwise there would have been a great deal of screaming."
"What do I need to give her?" he said picking the med kit back up. Following Shelby's instructions he got her awake. Ford had tried to take off his coat to cover her but it fell apart as he took it off, along with his shirt and vest. Leaving them in his lap he stared straight ahead and turned off the car.
"What happened?" Mel said groggily.
"Other than we won we passed out from going to fast."
"Ow! What hit me?" she said now looking at herself. "AAAA!" she yelled covering her chest. Looking at him she started to ask something when he handed her the dermal tool. He told her what to do with it as he got out of the car. Ford could swear Shelby was laughing as he went to the trunk in nothing but what was left of his shoes and socks. He barely noticed the slight glow coming from Shelby and himself. Shelby had asked if Mel wanted to see what Ford looked like right then.
"NO! That wouldn't be right." she said as she finished using the dermal tool. Taking off the goggles and helmet she tossed them in the back along with Ford's.
"He looked at you."
"For how long?" she said without any emotion.
"I'd like to say a long time but really, a few seconds."
Ford got some jogging suits out and gave her one as he put on the other. After she said she was dressed, Ford got back in and tossed the tattered remains of their clothes into the back seat and took off.
"Feeling better?"
"Yeah. Shelby said you were worse off though."
"I was and slightly still am."
"Hate to interrupt but Robotnick is on his way and nearing Sonic's location as we speak." Shelby said interrupting.
"Then punch it Shelby!"
Sonic was sitting down shaking the dust off his spikes, fur and everything else. A small trail of fire was dying out next to him. He was knocking sand from his ear as the plane landed.
"Sonic you all right?" Sally said running out.
"Just my pride. What did he do to get ahead of me?"
"He used a Chaos emerald and a power ring." Sally told him as Dr.Quack checked him out.
"Other than needing a bath, Sonic's just got the usual scrapes and bruises." Dr. Quack said helping Sonic stand.
"How in the hell did he get a Chaos emerald!? Power ring I can see but a Chaos emerald?"
"We haven't had a chance to ask him. But from what Nichole told me he is on is way here."
"Sally."
"Yes Nichole?" Sally said pulling her from her boot.
"I'm detecting several ships approaching....they are Robotnicks."
"Everyone hurry into the plane! We need to get out of here now!"
As they got ready to take off Robotnicks hovercraft took out a engine with a single blast.
"Come out dear princess or I'll blow you and your pathetic plane to pieces." Robotnick said through a speaker.
Sally and everyone in the plane came out slowly. Sonic came out with a slight limp.
"I detected a enormous power level out here. Now I want it and your going to give it to me, otherwise I'll roboticize you all.....wait I'm going to do it anyway. Swat-bots take them..." he was saying as a loud roar caught his attention. Looking toward the noise he saw a large blue object heading toward them at high speed.
Ford drove up doing a quick turn making the driver side face Robotnick. Grabbing both his guns he got out quickly and pointed them at Robotnick. The Freedom Fighters noticed a slight glow emanating from Ford and Shelby giving them a almost goldish look. Apparently Robotnick couldn't tell in the sunlight.
"I suggest you leave now Robotnick otherwise your body will be left for the scavengers out here." Ford said in a pissed off mood.
"So you're the overlander that I've been hearing about. You're the one who's been causing me trouble lately."
"Mores coming if you don't get you ass out of here! Now tell your Swat-bots to shut off. From there you can take one of the hover cargos and leave."
"You think that puny.."
"These so-called puny weapons have a high yield, explosive impact, and hollow pointed ammo. Now tell the Swat-bots to back off!"
"I think you will surrender or your friends here will...
"WRONG ANSWER JULIAN!" Ford said shooting Robotnick in the arm. The round went through his arm causing blood to spatter. The bullet hit a Swat- bot behind him causing it to explode on impact.
"RRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAA." Robotnick screamed as he grabbed his arm. As soon as the Swat-bots started to raise their arms to attack, Ford began firing at them. With one gun he was putting large holes in them and the other blowing holes. Sally and the others joined in as the Swat-bots tried to regroup. Robotnick was being helped away as he sweared and ordered the bots around.
"Shelby get Mel out of here NOW!" Ford said as he fired another round. "Command order Omega One!"
"No wait! Ford get in!" Mel yelled as Shelby started to leave. Mel tried to get out but the doors were locked. "Shelby what the hell are you doing?!"
"Following previous orders."
"I'll get on the airplane Mel! Don't worry about me my love!" Ford yelled through the com link.
Ford continued to blast them until he ran out of ammo. Realizing that he left all his other with Shelby he ran into the fray and grabbed a broken off arm and clubbed a Swat-bot. He smashed a few more before having to rest. Glancing to his right he saw the craft Robotnick came in power up its external weapons. Seeing it being aimed at Sally, Ford tired yelling at her to move. He yelled at Sonic too be he was too far away. Sally wasn't hearing him. Tossing the broken limb into a Swat-bot he ran.
"With the Princess out of the way..." Robotnick said pushing the button.
Sally turned to see Ford yelling something as Sonic buzzed through a bot in front of her. Sally could only watch as Ford was hit by Robotnicks shot. Ford landed right in front of her and stopped moving. Smoke rose from him. Dulcy came up and blew fire onto the some of the Swat-bots. Sonic grabbed Sally and moved her out of the way as several bots came at them. When the other Freedom Fighters tried to get him, Robotnick's craft opened fire to keep them away as a couple of Swat-bots grabbed Ford and took him to Robotnicks craft. Sonic was trying to stop them but his leg was hurting too much to run anymore. Robotnick had already left by the time the rest of the bots were destroyed.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!" Sonic yelled.
Sally and the others started crying as they watched Robotnick leave. Sally saw his guns lying on the ground. She picked them up and took them inside the plane. An hour later the plane was off.
When the plane landed, badly too, Mel was waiting outside. It was late at night when they made it home. Seeing Sally getting off the plane holding Ford guns made her knees go weak. Tears welled up as Sally approached.
"I'm sorry Mel. He was hit saving me. Robotnick took him away before we could stop him."
"Where the hell was Sonic?!" she said through tears. "Why didn't he try.."
"He did try everything he could. Dr. Quack is taking him to get his leg looked at. Sonic really tried and so did the rest of us. I'm so sorry Mel." she said handing over the guns.
As Mel took them she fell to her knees and broke down.
Next day: 12:00
Everyone was finding places to sit or stand as King Max, Queen Alicia and Princess Sally came onto the podium. Everyone stopped talking as the Royal family took their seats. Ford and Mel were sitting off to Max's left. From what Ford was hearing from the crowd, before Max showed up, most were talking about the race tomorrow. They apparently thought Max was going to cancel it. Shelby was monitoring from outside the castle.
"Dear citizens of Knothole. Thank you for coming. I have heard that alot of you think that this meeting is about the race tomorrow. But it is not. I've seen everyone alot happier since Ford asked Sonic to race him, so it will continue. I have asked you here to discuss something else." he paused to watch the crowd. More than quite a few breathed a sigh of relief knowing the race was still on. Some cheered. Holding his hand up to quite them back down, Max continued.
"No doubt some of you have noticed these two together." Max said pointing at Ford and Mel. Eyes widened, gasped, or said what the...
"Other than one incident that Ford managed to keep from getting to far out of hand, no one else has complained. Ford and Mel have assured me that nothing has happened between them, but they are very much in love. You were all called here to voice your opinion. But first, my daughter would like to talk." As a guard wheeled Max back next to Queen Alicia, Sally came up.
"Knothole citizens, I can't speak for my parents on their thoughts but I have come to know Ford. He has helped us many times and never demanded anything in return."
"What about Blue Streak? How did he get the parts for it?" someone asked from the crowd.
Mel cracked up as Ford shook his head and covered his face with one hand. Shelby growled outside startling the guards. Over the com link she told Ford to address the issue.
Sally started to laugh but contained it but covering it with a cough as Ford walked up. "Sorry Sally but I have to stop this."
"What..." Sally said confused.
Ford leaned over to tell her what he was going to say.
Nodding her head in approval she stood back.
"First I formally asked the King for the parts. But I'm interrupting the Princess because I need to address this so called name Blue Streak. That's not her name. It's Shelby. For those who don't know, she is just like the Princesses handheld computer Nichole, only bigger. And my car is NOT going to be a large blue streak of parts stretched across the Great Unknown." Ford said looking at Sonic before nodding to Sally and then sitting back down. Over his intercom Shelby thanked him.
"Getting back to the reason were here today, I personally have no problem with them being together as long as they obey our laws. Several of the other Freedom Fighters have also agreed with me on this. Unless you have anything else to say Father, we'll start answering questions." Max shook his head.
"Think of this like a classroom, if you want to talk, hold up your hand."
Ford's eyes widened as he saw alot of hands go up. Oh great. I find someone with my interest and because I'm different everyone goes crazy. Looking over at Mel he smiled. She was looking lovely as ever as she looked out over the crowd.
When she finally noticed he was looking at her, "What?" she said with smile on her face. Ford said he was admiring the view.
She was still watching the crowd as Sally answered questions. Most of the questions pertained to what would the Royal Family do if Knothole refused to have them be together, why are they allowed to be together. Mel's demeanor changed to anger when someone started slandering her parents.
"Mel, we knew this was probably going to happen. Try not to do anything rash." Ford said holding her arm for a moment as she got up.
"I know.." she said walking over to the podium. Everyone grew quite as she asked Sally to let her talk.
"To whoever it was that said that those things about my parents, and I saw who you were but I'm not going to point you out, I had the misfortune of loose them during Robotnick's attack. I've had to live with things no one ever should and had to go through h...." she stopped a moment to compose herself. "I never knew who Ford was until someone told me about a bet that was going on. As everyone's families were getting back together during the deroboticization miracle, Ford was staying to himself inside that garage. The bet was to see if any woman could get him to talk or bring him out. They asked me because we had the same interest. I have had bad experiences with men in the past. Mostly because they only cared about my looks. In the beginning Ford was just someone who liked me because I could understand his car and knew how to help. Rotor was able to help but usually was busy elsewhere. As the weeks went by we grew closer. For those who may not believe the King, me and Ford have done nothing together. The closest we have got is kissing. I came to him, not vise versa." Mel turned to leave, "One more thing, my parents hated no one and was against fighting."
Mel started back over to her chair but turned and walked off the podium. The guards were about to stop her when the King motioned for them to let her pass. She walked somewhere into the castle with Ford close behind.
"Mel you all right?" he asked as they walked down a long hall.
"I know we talked about this happening..."
"Talk and hearing are very different. I know. They probably blame me for this. If I were to demand anything for all my help...it would be to marry you."
"Really?" she said with more love in her voice than surprise.
"Really. Whatever is said out there, I'm going to stay with you even if we have to leave. This may not be the Earth I once knew but not much has changed that I couldn't live off the land." he said taking her hands into his.
"That's so sweet." she said kissing him.
Sally, a few of the freedom fighters, and the Royal family watched for almost a minute when they decided to interrupt.
"Ahem."
They were still kissing until Sonic broke them up saying, "So Ford you still what to race?"
They broke apart suddenly startled that they were being watched.
"How long have you all been there?" Ford asked still holding Mel. She was still in his arms with her eyes closed.
"Long enough to have heard your conversation. Given all your help and that you are not like the overlanders we have had to deal with, most of Knothole has agreed to let you be together. Some others need time to adjust but there should be no more problems." King Max said. "As for marriage, do you two wish to wed now."
"Ah....Mel?" Ford said looking down at her.
"We'll think about it and then get back to you." Mel said looking at the King. "Thank you for addressing this. I'm glad to get it out of the way." she finished saying with a bow. Ford did the same, then watched them leave.
"So are you two racing me together?" Sonic asked.
"Yes and don't you dare say no." Mel said pointing her finger in his face.
"What?! If you came I'd feel better." Then looking not serious, "Mostly in case something goes wrong with Shelby and I need help." he said looking around funnily.
"What?!" she said playing along. "Come back here..." she said following him as he started running off.
"Those two have it bad." Sonic said to Sally. "Are you going to watch me make him eat my dust tomorrow?"
"Actually I'm going to watch him make you eat his dust." she said walking away playfully.
"What?! There's no way..." he said figuring she was joking with him but wasn't sure as he followed after.
Geoffrey was doing guard duty along with Hershey that night. They were discussing tactics and other guard stuff when they heard an all too familiar voice. Slowly moving forward they came upon Ford and Shelby.
"Were did you say it was?"
"Look, I told you were it was, bringing me along doesn't make finding it any easier." Shelby said in a low but grumbling voice.
"I don't have night vision and you're the one with the scanners, besides I want to try that device I found in Rotors workshop. I've been lucky so far that he hasn't noticed it missing."
"You'll just be along for the ride, I'm the one using the stupid thing. As far as my calculations go, I have an 83% chance of surviving when I use it. Just in case something was to go wrong I had Mel do a once over with the MBS spray on everything except the inside."
"Inside?"
"Were you sit and drive me. My engine got enough sprayed on it to help hold it together and to be able to withstand the extreme temperatures."
"Good thinking. Every little bit helps."
"Yes."
Geoffrey and Hershey followed them within a few meters as they moved forward still searching for something that Geoffrey still hadn't figured out yet. Some time over half an hour later............
"There it is. Off to your right a few feet."
"Shelby there's nothing that...."
"Dig."
"Be more specific."
With a low growl of annoyance Shelby told Ford were to walk to. Once there he had to use his hands to dig it up. Pulling it out of the ground Ford held it in front of Shelby's headlights.
"A small Chaos emerald. Incredible."
"Once you downloaded the comics into my CPU I did a little scanning around and found it here. That fight between Super Sonic and Hyper Knuckles caused a big explosion from what the book said, but I figured there had to be at least one that survived. I can detect others pieces around but only under a microscope will you see them."
"No rings?"
"Negative."
"All right overlander. Give that up, it belongs to the King."
"What?!" Ford said getting up quickly drawing one of his guns.
Geoffrey and Hershey stepped out from the tree there were behind. Hershey wasn't carrying a weapons but Geoffrey had his arm crossbow aimed at Ford. Ford had his revolver aimed at Geoffrey.
"Ah Geoffrey. Hershey." he said nodding to both of them.
"I will use force if I have to. And your car here will not save you. I have an EMP bomb, so don't try anything. Now drop your weapon and give over the emerald."
"Does he have a bomb Shelby?" Ford said not dropping his gun.
"He does but it won't work on me."
"Even if that's true overlander the King will believe me more than you, now give me the emerald!"
Holstering his gun, Ford tossed the green crystal into the air a few times. "And if I just give it to you, what then. You take it to Max and say you or me found it and that's it."
"Against my better judgment, yes."
"Well in that case." Ford said tossing it to Hershey.
Hershey caught it and placed it in her coat. Geoffrey lowered his weapon slowly.
"Next time you want to explore. Ask for an escort."
"You know what John, I will. Oh I just noticed something."
"What?" he said annoyed. He had his weapon ready to fire if Ford tried anything.
"You look tired, both of you in fact. I'd say you need some sleep."
"What?! Look here over.....what the." he said as a greenish gas came out the back of Shelby. Hershey was unfortunately closer and collapsed almost immediately. Ford walked over as Geoffrey tried to get off the ground.
"Cough...cough....I knew you couldn't be trusted....you murderous.."
"I didn't kill her. You're just going to sleep till sometime tomorrow, probably after the race you'll wake up. Night John."
The next day......Race Time!
Everyone was watching as Sonic did a few stretches and Ford looking Shelby over. Sally was talking to Sonic as was Tails.
"How far are you going Sonic?" Tails asked.
"Only a couple hundred miles Tails. Nothing I can't handle. Besides you and Dulcy will be watching from the air in case anything happens. This race will be way past cool."
"You got your power rings in case anything does happen Sonic?" Sally asked.
"Yep. Got three of them in this bag. Ford said to bring some just in case."
"Why so many?"
"So if I have to drag his car home." he said laughing.
"Seriously though Sonic." Sally said not impressed.
"Really. If something goes wrong he'll put it in....a...what was it he said...well something that will make it so it can be moved without using the engine."
"Great." Sally said shaking her head.
"Don't worry Sal. Nichole said everything would be cool. Besides we can call for help through Nichole it anything goes wrong."
Ford was getting a helmet from the trunk when Mel showed up. She was wearing a tight black suit that covered her up to her neck.
"Niiiiiiice." Ford said dragging out the word.
"Thanks. I made it a few weeks ago."
"Here. I have two of them in case anything happens to the first one." he said handing her a helmet. Both of them were blue with a picture of Sonic running on the side. He helped her put it on, which took some time since it kept tickling her ears. Putting on a pair of white racing gloves that matched his three piece white suit he got in the car.
"Ready to go Shelby?"
"Been waiting since you asked Sonic."
"Ready my dear?" he said kissing her hand.
Visible blushing she said yes and put on a similar pair of gloves that were black.
"Ready Sonic?"
"Way past!" he yelled.
"All right then!" Ford said starting the car. "Before we take off though I need that black thing near you feet."
"I don't remember seeing this before?" she said handing to him.
"My music CD's. I had them elsewhere at the time we were working so they didn't get damaged." Opening the case he fingered through it. "Ah! Here it is." he said placing the CD in the radio. Placing the case in the back seat he put it in gear and started to move to the starting line.
VVVVVVVVRrrrr..........click, click, click....
"FORD!!!" Shelby yelled.
Everyone went dead quiet as the car's engine just quit. Rotor was about to run up when Ford stuck his hand out the window waving him back.
"What happened?" Mel asked getting ready to get out.
"Don't get out. I just dropped the clutch. Must be nervous." he said starting it back up and moving to the starting line. Sonic and Ford decided to stay 30 feet apart from each other so as to make it easier to see them.
"What a way to start Ford. Embarrass me before we even get going." Shelby said.
"You dropped the clutch?" she asked.
"I didn't move my feet onto the right pedals in time and the car shut off."
As Sonic got into position Ford revved the engine a few times. Pressing play the theme music for "Back To The Future" came on the speakers.
"3...2...1! GO!!!!!!!" Bunnie said firing a starter pistol. POW!
Sonic took off fast as Ford peeled out. Sonic was over a mile away at first as Shelby got closer.
LASER RESTRAINT SYSTEM ACTIVATED came on the small screen in Shelby as they hit 250MPH on the digital speedometer. Sonic was sending up a large cloud of dust as he ran. Looking back he saw Ford right with him. Going into his signature figure eight run he pulled ahead. Ford floored the gas pedal as Sonic went ahead.
Dulcy and Tails were watching from the air the best they could. Tails was trying to narrate what he was seeing as Rotor used a camera to relay everything to several monitor screens down in the crowds.
At 400MPH Sonic felt excited until he saw the car still with him. Grabbing a power ring he took off in a blast of light.
"SONIC JUST USED A POWER RING AND HAS LEFT FORD IN THE DUST!" Tails yelled into the mike.
Ford watched as a bright light encompassed Sonic and sent him way ahead. Pressing a button on the dash, "If you all thought that was impressive or think that Sonic has won, then watch carefully."
Everyone was cheering along when they heard Ford's voice come through the speakers. Rotor zoomed in with the camera on Ford. Thanks to Dulcy being able to crack the whip as she calls it she was already above the finish line watching the front of them.
"Ford! Where did you get a Chaos emerald?" Mel asked as he placed it in a slot on top of the unknown device.
"Shelby found it." he said pulling a power ring out and putting it onto the device.
"Now I know why that looks familiar. Rotor was trying to build a device to harness the power of the rings to use for other things. How did you get it to work?"
"Luck mostly. Hang on!" he said flipping the switch. The ring and Chaos emerald glowed brightly encompassing the entire car.
"Sally, Ford has somehow managed to use a power ring." Nichole said showing her the reading on her screen.
"HOW?!"
"Unknown Sally. He also used a Chaos emerald."
"WHAT?!" Sally said with a scream.
"HEY EVERYONE, FORD'S CAR JUST TURNED A BRIGHT GLOW AND OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!" Tails said as they all heard what sounded like a large explosion. He watched as a fiery trail of fire came from where Shelby once was and continued past the finish line.
Out in Robotropolis, Robotnick was fuming because he couldn't do anything since the last few attack from the Freedom Fighters. He was looking at monitors when an orbital satellite picked up a large power reading.
Shelby could feel the power surge through her circuits and everything else as her speed went from 400 something to 700 something. She had to take over and activate the Emergency Braking System as Ford and Mel had passed out from the G-forces. Sand came inside the car at a speed that started ripping apart the interior, Ford and Shelby. Putting herself into reverse and turning off her engine she applied the brakes slowly.
Sonic was feeling great until a large cloud of dust passed by him. He stopped suddenly when he couldn't breath and then was nearly deafened by the sound of a large sonic boom next to him. He then rolled a few dozen feet on the ground as the shockwave hit him. Next was the heat wave that hit him last.
Dulcy, Rotor and Tails were watching as Shelby turned a brighter glow than Sonic ever did and then passed Sonic and zoomed right under them in a fiery trail. Luckily they were high enough that the dust cloud came up to them but not enough to cause them to lose flight. Dulcy managed to grab Tails and climb higher as the shockwave came at them.
Sally had a rescue team ready, in case something did happen. They and the rest of the Freedom Fighters headed out as everyone else was sent home to wait. Sally has placed a tracking device in Sonics shoe earlier just in case. According to Nichole, Sonic was alive and over three hundred miles away. Shelby was farther and still going.
"I knew this was a bad idea." She said getting into the plane.
Shelby had finally managed to slow herself down a few miles before reaching the other side of Great Unknown. Once she came to a complete stop she assessed her systems. Other than needed new tires, brakes, and a few other things she was still in driving condition. Turning around she headed back to Knothole on almost non-existent tires. Doing an internal scan on her two occupants, her scans showed they were alive, adrenalin rushed, covered with sand like the rest of her, and needing new clothes and medical attention. Shelby's upholstery was damaged by some of the sand, a few tears, missing button, more holes than anything. While Mel's fur had protected her from too much damage, Ford's face needed some help from the dermal regenerator. Several areas on his hands needed the dermal tool along with his legs and a few places higher up. Being he had a shirt, vest and coat on they took the brunt of the impact from the dust and mostly shredded it leaving him needing the medical tool there barely. Mel on the other hand little to nothing left except tethered remains of her black outfit. Luckily the helmet kept the dust and sand out of her ears. Since she had to sit on her tail it gave her more protection than Ford's briefs did for him.
"FORD YOU NEED TO WAKE UP!" Shelby yelled.
Using her venting system she got the dusty air out of the car and replaced it with pure oxygen. Mel stirred some but didn't wake up.
"FORD!!!!!!!"
Shaking awake Ford removed his racing glasses which were missing their lenses. His body felt terrible and drafty for some reason. His face felt worse and when he felt blood running down his face from several area's he grabbed the med kit from the back seat. Someone was talking to him but he couldn't make out much through the pain. Several minutes later and a hypo or two he started feeling better. Removing the helmet he glanced at it seeing it was ruined and tossed it in the back.
"Damn....must have not turned the watch in time......wait wasn't wearing a helmet when I was chasing those guys, I was......"
"FORD!!!!!!!"
"WWWAAAAAAAAA! WERE ARE YOU?! WHOS THERE?!" he said looking for his guns.
"Dammit Ford! You didn't lose your memory did you?"
"Huh? Oh Shelby. No I didn't lose my memory I just forgot where I was. What happened?"
"You passed out and didn't put enough plating around the cab unit to keep dust and sand out so now I need repairs. But I'd get to work on your girlfriend here."
Remembering her being in the car with him, he finally noticed her. More than noticed in fact before turning away. Looking at himself he nearly jumped out of the car.
"SHELBY! WHAT THE HECK HAPPENED?"
"Once you activated that ring device we went so fast dust and sand got inside and swirled around doing what you see. Luckily you were passed out when it happened otherwise there would have been a great deal of screaming."
"What do I need to give her?" he said picking the med kit back up. Following Shelby's instructions he got her awake. Ford had tried to take off his coat to cover her but it fell apart as he took it off, along with his shirt and vest. Leaving them in his lap he stared straight ahead and turned off the car.
"What happened?" Mel said groggily.
"Other than we won we passed out from going to fast."
"Ow! What hit me?" she said now looking at herself. "AAAA!" she yelled covering her chest. Looking at him she started to ask something when he handed her the dermal tool. He told her what to do with it as he got out of the car. Ford could swear Shelby was laughing as he went to the trunk in nothing but what was left of his shoes and socks. He barely noticed the slight glow coming from Shelby and himself. Shelby had asked if Mel wanted to see what Ford looked like right then.
"NO! That wouldn't be right." she said as she finished using the dermal tool. Taking off the goggles and helmet she tossed them in the back along with Ford's.
"He looked at you."
"For how long?" she said without any emotion.
"I'd like to say a long time but really, a few seconds."
Ford got some jogging suits out and gave her one as he put on the other. After she said she was dressed, Ford got back in and tossed the tattered remains of their clothes into the back seat and took off.
"Feeling better?"
"Yeah. Shelby said you were worse off though."
"I was and slightly still am."
"Hate to interrupt but Robotnick is on his way and nearing Sonic's location as we speak." Shelby said interrupting.
"Then punch it Shelby!"
Sonic was sitting down shaking the dust off his spikes, fur and everything else. A small trail of fire was dying out next to him. He was knocking sand from his ear as the plane landed.
"Sonic you all right?" Sally said running out.
"Just my pride. What did he do to get ahead of me?"
"He used a Chaos emerald and a power ring." Sally told him as Dr.Quack checked him out.
"Other than needing a bath, Sonic's just got the usual scrapes and bruises." Dr. Quack said helping Sonic stand.
"How in the hell did he get a Chaos emerald!? Power ring I can see but a Chaos emerald?"
"We haven't had a chance to ask him. But from what Nichole told me he is on is way here."
"Sally."
"Yes Nichole?" Sally said pulling her from her boot.
"I'm detecting several ships approaching....they are Robotnicks."
"Everyone hurry into the plane! We need to get out of here now!"
As they got ready to take off Robotnicks hovercraft took out a engine with a single blast.
"Come out dear princess or I'll blow you and your pathetic plane to pieces." Robotnick said through a speaker.
Sally and everyone in the plane came out slowly. Sonic came out with a slight limp.
"I detected a enormous power level out here. Now I want it and your going to give it to me, otherwise I'll roboticize you all.....wait I'm going to do it anyway. Swat-bots take them..." he was saying as a loud roar caught his attention. Looking toward the noise he saw a large blue object heading toward them at high speed.
Ford drove up doing a quick turn making the driver side face Robotnick. Grabbing both his guns he got out quickly and pointed them at Robotnick. The Freedom Fighters noticed a slight glow emanating from Ford and Shelby giving them a almost goldish look. Apparently Robotnick couldn't tell in the sunlight.
"I suggest you leave now Robotnick otherwise your body will be left for the scavengers out here." Ford said in a pissed off mood.
"So you're the overlander that I've been hearing about. You're the one who's been causing me trouble lately."
"Mores coming if you don't get you ass out of here! Now tell your Swat-bots to shut off. From there you can take one of the hover cargos and leave."
"You think that puny.."
"These so-called puny weapons have a high yield, explosive impact, and hollow pointed ammo. Now tell the Swat-bots to back off!"
"I think you will surrender or your friends here will...
"WRONG ANSWER JULIAN!" Ford said shooting Robotnick in the arm. The round went through his arm causing blood to spatter. The bullet hit a Swat- bot behind him causing it to explode on impact.
"RRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAA." Robotnick screamed as he grabbed his arm. As soon as the Swat-bots started to raise their arms to attack, Ford began firing at them. With one gun he was putting large holes in them and the other blowing holes. Sally and the others joined in as the Swat-bots tried to regroup. Robotnick was being helped away as he sweared and ordered the bots around.
"Shelby get Mel out of here NOW!" Ford said as he fired another round. "Command order Omega One!"
"No wait! Ford get in!" Mel yelled as Shelby started to leave. Mel tried to get out but the doors were locked. "Shelby what the hell are you doing?!"
"Following previous orders."
"I'll get on the airplane Mel! Don't worry about me my love!" Ford yelled through the com link.
Ford continued to blast them until he ran out of ammo. Realizing that he left all his other with Shelby he ran into the fray and grabbed a broken off arm and clubbed a Swat-bot. He smashed a few more before having to rest. Glancing to his right he saw the craft Robotnick came in power up its external weapons. Seeing it being aimed at Sally, Ford tired yelling at her to move. He yelled at Sonic too be he was too far away. Sally wasn't hearing him. Tossing the broken limb into a Swat-bot he ran.
"With the Princess out of the way..." Robotnick said pushing the button.
Sally turned to see Ford yelling something as Sonic buzzed through a bot in front of her. Sally could only watch as Ford was hit by Robotnicks shot. Ford landed right in front of her and stopped moving. Smoke rose from him. Dulcy came up and blew fire onto the some of the Swat-bots. Sonic grabbed Sally and moved her out of the way as several bots came at them. When the other Freedom Fighters tried to get him, Robotnick's craft opened fire to keep them away as a couple of Swat-bots grabbed Ford and took him to Robotnicks craft. Sonic was trying to stop them but his leg was hurting too much to run anymore. Robotnick had already left by the time the rest of the bots were destroyed.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!" Sonic yelled.
Sally and the others started crying as they watched Robotnick leave. Sally saw his guns lying on the ground. She picked them up and took them inside the plane. An hour later the plane was off.
When the plane landed, badly too, Mel was waiting outside. It was late at night when they made it home. Seeing Sally getting off the plane holding Ford guns made her knees go weak. Tears welled up as Sally approached.
"I'm sorry Mel. He was hit saving me. Robotnick took him away before we could stop him."
"Where the hell was Sonic?!" she said through tears. "Why didn't he try.."
"He did try everything he could. Dr. Quack is taking him to get his leg looked at. Sonic really tried and so did the rest of us. I'm so sorry Mel." she said handing over the guns.
As Mel took them she fell to her knees and broke down.
