Hello there everyone. Nxy here with Chapter 2 of Simplicity. Sorry I'm so late with the upload but unfortunately my internet connection was down and a trip to Puerto Rico didn't give me the chance to fix the problem. I just got back yesterday and was finally able to getit back. But because of it I missed my Christmas deadline and now the entire setting of the story is kind of odd. I hope you guys will still like it regardless of the fact its not Christmas anymore. I tried my best on it though it still came out badly but I tried.
I sincerely want to thank of of those who reviewed. Your kind words and encouragement made meget off my lazy butt and update.I'm sorry I can't personally thank all of you here but I heard it was against the rules and I don't want my story to be reported (but when has that stopped me before?) Still, I'm trying to be a good girl...what?...don't look at me like that! Just go read the story.
Disclaimer: Heh, I knew I forgot something in the last chapter. Well, I don't own Sonic the Hedgehog or any of its afformentioned characters and I probably never will insert disappointed sigh here.
Simplicity Chapter 2
A satiated sigh overrode the effervescence of the small fire within the hearth, flames licking greedily at the trimly split firewood feeding its essence. Contented emerald eyes gazed at their achievement, observing short, broad oval leaves in pairs along a woody stem, waxy white berries in a large cluster that made it appear like pearls trapped in olive silk. She'd always loved mistletoe, another concept romanticized beyond recognition. But that was fine, she'd always been a romantic at heart. What was one more impractical notion?
Treading down the step ladder lying in-between the mahogany doorframe she turned, her gaze rolling over the interior of her new home. It was only recently that she had moved into the cabin near the outskirts of Grand Metropolis, a pleasing contrast from the confined, polluted apartments within the city. This would be her first Christmas in her new home; the party hosted tonight both in commemoration of the oncoming holiday and celebration of her new residence.
A sense of nostalgia gripped her as she observed the burnished wooden floors, the stone hearth facing the foyer, the walls made of brick…the reason she'd fallen in love with the cabin. Memories flooded back, the same scene altered by the sight of her mother, a petite scarlet hedgehog of thirty-two summers sitting in an aged rocking chair before the fire, fragments of an old hymn escaping her from time to time as she meticulously worked on the crimson stockings that would hang from the fireplace. Her father, a lean silver hedgehog of thirty-five summers always sat opposite her on a tall-backed wooden chair, reading from his newspaper in contemplative silence. It was a scene engraved into her memory, of a time in which she was an infant lying in her crib, the hearths warmth the only saving grace from the vicious cold outside. Yes, they hadn't had much, work was time consuming and Christmas was often a disappointment. But it gave her something she was infinitely grateful for. It taught her humility, appreciation, conformity…virtues she doubted she would have learned quite as vigorously without her humble upbringing.
Her gaze turned toward the Christmas tree situated within the corner, far enough away from the hearth so that the immediate threat of fire was diminished but close enough so that its gentle golden glow could wash over the delicate mould-blown colored glass of the Christmas ornaments, crimson colored ribbons, banded candy canes, stringed metallic pearls and fairy lights elegantly adorning the needle like leaves of the evergreen Christmas tree.
She smiled wistfully, remembering her previous indecision regarding they type of tree she wanted. Her first choice had been an artificial tree, stemming from years of prohibition by her previous landlord when it came to real ones. It was an understandable concern, the fear of potential fire easily spread by the dried leaves and bark of real trees and so she'd never had a qualm about it. But as soon as she'd seen the striking evergreens flanking the lake, their leaves bleached with snow, icicles forming near their tips like gemstone tears did she remember the only Christmas tree her parents had brought home. It was a withered little thing, most of its branches discarded leaving only large patches of repellent brown bark. It was in no way glamorous but it didn't have to be. For Amy, a child born with nothing but her parent's promise of protection, love and fealty it was more than she'd ever wanted, than she'd ever hoped for. It was perfect. And now, fifteen summers later the impression remained etched into her heart, tied to recollection. She'd decided to take the evergreen instead and decorate it the way she'd seen Vanilla do it…the way she'd always wished she and her mother could have done it.
Emerald orbs focused, ebbing away the last remaining traces of memory. What ifs are always a small comfort, an indulgence as sweet as chocolate. And once it is gone, all that's left is the craving, the dissatisfaction and the bitter taste of what once was. Amy tried not to dwell too much on them.
Her gaze reached the narrow conic crown near the top, bare save for the ribbon near the tip. Amy sighed, reaching out to unsettle the scarlet ribbon and place it on one of the lower branches. No matter how much she tried she could never find an adequate decoration for the top of the tree. The ribbon had been her last hope but it too seemed insufficient. She thought back briefly toward the ceramic angel she'd bought for just that purpose. Skillfully made, meticulously painted and decorated it had been the perfect centerpiece for the tree. That was, until it met its untimely demise thanks to the ebony hedgehog.
'Shadow'
Amy shook her head, trying to clear away her wandering thoughts but it couldn't be helped. Memories of their last encounter would claim her thoughts, leaving her to contemplate about his whereabouts, his welfare. She'd left him to recollect the pieces of his life, his memories. She often wondered if it was a wise choice to leave him alone. Maybe he needed someone to talk to, to help him unload the burden. But in the end, her reservations would always be sated with the thought that it wasn't Cream or Tails she was worrying about. It was Shadow, the taciturn, resolute hedgehog whose pride wouldn't have allowed her to get close. She could only hope that sanity and friendship would withstand guilt and turmoil.
The rhythmic pulse of the mantle clock brought her back from her contemplation, the highly ornate timepiece of ormolu, porcelain and wood engravings displaying the current time. She swore under her breath, rushing toward the staircase and making her way upstairs and into her room. Without much deliberation she took off her crimson robe, silk nightgown and woolen socks, her usual attire when she was at home without the risk of company or outdoor activity. Quickly grabbing her towel she stepped into the cream colored bathroom, shivering slightly at the floors chill that slowly crept its way up her body. She was thankful for the warm water, allowing the heated droplets to graze her pelt and take the prevalent cold away.
An hour later she stepped out, towel wrapped around her rose tinted fur and quills though even the thick material couldn't stop the beads of water from falling onto the tiled floor below. She made her way toward her bed, finding her attire neatly displayed upon smooth sheets. She picked up the dress, replacing the yielding material of the towel for the scarlet silk of her dress, the collar lined with snow white fur that caressed her throat and muzzle. Her boots came next, the fur lining harmonizing with the dress. A cherry colored ribbon replaced the usually bulky headband, leaving most of her nearly dry bangs in wild disarray. She gazed tentatively into the mirror, unsure if the attire was too reminiscent of her usual clothing but something about it seemed different, much more vibrant, appropriate…festive. Her fingers brushed the fur lining the collar, warm and compliant beneath her touch. She smiled, remembering the nervous look Cream had given her when she opened the box to discover the dress. The doe had spent so much time making the outfit for her…how could she not love it?
Satisfied with her appearance she made her way downstairs, taking notice of the time and happy to see she'd finished before the appointed hour. She walked toward the kitchen, the scent of oatmeal, cinnamon and apples an overwhelming aroma that immersed her in its spiciness. She carefully picked up the metallic pans from the counter, delicate fragrance of the gingersnaps heating her face. Next came the oatmeal, chocolate chip, pecan and any and all combinations of the three. Amy placed the trays neatly on the living room table next to the already cooled pies and candy cane.
Originally Amy had planned on cooking a large dinner in celebration. It seemed appropriate the host provide sufficient food for her guests. But after Cream told her most of the others would eat before coming over, it seemed like a waste. So instead she made small treats, namely for the more boisterous of the lot.
Once everything was set up she gave a quick scan, making sure nothing was out of place. With nothing more to do she sat down on the couch and waited, her gaze briefly grazing the mantle clock.
'7: 30'
Now all that was left was to wait.
By 8:30, the tranquility of the Rose household was shattered, alive with the sound of serendipitous laughter, soft metrical music and excited murmur. And at the core of the merriment stood Amy Rose who never allowed herself to be invisible for too long. If there was one thing she truly missed about the city it was her friends. Before the move it was rare to find her apartment vacant, always active with movement and merriment, usually from Cream and Vanilla, sometimes from Tails and least often than not Knuckles. She had loved every moment of it. Solitude was not a feeling she was accustomed to, not since her friends entered her life. But tonight would reconnect severed relations. After all, there was only so much a telephone call could do…she missed the real thing.
The chime of the doorbell merged briefly with the soft crescendo of the holiday tune drifting through the house. Amy placed the empty cookie pan on the sink, motioning for Big to take a new pan from the oven as she wandered toward the door. Smoothing out the fold of her dress she opened the door, only to be assailed by a bundle of fawn who coincidentally had two very adorable rabbit ears.
"Hello Cream" Amy laughed, returning the embrace of her dear friend. The doe lifted her head from the crook of Amy's throat, a broad smile playing on her young face. Amy returned the gesture, looking over Cream's head toward her parents, an elegantly dressed Vanilla and a grinning Vector. "Pleasure to see you again Vanilla, Vector."
"The pleasure is all ours Amy. My, what a beautiful home you have" Vanilla responded, gaze turned toward the windows imprinted with small transparent decorations and the gentle, periodic twinkle of the fairy lights. She turned toward her mate who nodded.
"Yeah kid…you did an awesome job"
Cream turned around, a mock expression of offense on her face. Vector cast her a quizzical glance and Cream sighed, tapping her foot on the porch flooring, unsettling arbitrary beads of snow. "She didn't do it alone you know."
Confusion ebbed away from his orbs, replaced by a broad, toothy grin. Reaching over he ran his palm over her russet tresses, a teasing look of apology on his face. "Sorry Creamy Cream…both of you did an awesome job." He corrected, disheveling her mane in mischievous play. Cream swatted his hand away, a predatory smile on her lips as she stalked toward the crocodile.
"Dad" she whispered, a lighthearted warning in her tone. Without preamble she lunge, tackle Vector from the front. The crocodile anticipated the pounce, grunting at the impact before he found his footing, chuckling at the doe's antics. Vanilla laughed and Amy couldn't help but chuckle at the scene.
She had to admit that at first, this had all seemed like an implausible dream, especially to the crocodile. For all his control and arrogance in his profession he held no such virtues when it came to women, namely Vanilla. For five years he'd merely remained as the family friend, never daring to trespass the role of both companion and guardian. It came to a point where even Amy had grown tired of watching the emotional ping pong. In the end, she and the remainder of the Chaotix set up a few "chance encounters" between the rabbit and crocodile. Gradually both became acquainted with each other on a more personal level.
And the rest was history.
"So, how have things been going Vanilla?" Amy questioned, stepping aside to allow them to enter before closing the door, unable to keep a bitter gale from piercing the warmth of the cabin. Vanilla unzipped her coat, placing it on the protruding hook of the coat rack before turning toward her family, taking their coats as well.
"It's very well honey, a bit hectic with all of the Christmas preparations and the agency. How about you Amy? How have things been going with your new home? Are you eating well? Is it too cold? Oh honey, you look a bit pale. I knew it wasn't a good idea to let you move out here." Vanilla mumbled, palm on Amy's forehead in concerned observation. Amy gently grabbed the rabbit's wrist, moving it away.
"I'm fine Vanilla…don't worry so much." She chuckled, smiling at the skepticism in the rabbits honey orbs. "Besides, I still have the emergency numbers, first aid kit, pyrotechnic flares, emergency rations, camouflage tent, flashlights, cell phone…I doubt even the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction is this well prepared."
Cream giggled at her mother's bashful expression and even Vector joined in, wrapping his arms around Vanilla.
"That's my mate…always one step ahead."
"Make that a whole flight of stairs" Cream snorted, earning a warning look from her mother. But even Vanilla couldn't suppress a chuckle at her daughter's remark.
"What about you Cream? How are you doing?"
Creams ears perked, orbs moving away from the silent murmur of her parents to catch hold of emerald. "I'm fine. Schools been a bit tough but as soon as the semesters over dad promised to take me to Twinkle Park as my reward. I can't wait." Cream ended, excitement laced within each syllable. Amy grinned, wrapping an arm around Creams shoulders to bring her closer.
"Just make sure not to eat before going on the rollercoaster. We don't need a repeat of last year" Amy warned in a sagely tone, one Cream didn't buy for a second.
"You just love bringing that up don't you?"
"Every chance I get" Amy smirked, avoiding a playful punch before taking her hand, leading them toward the living room. The rose hedgehog couldn't help but feel as if something were missing. It took a moment for the realization to dawn on her, her eyes instinctively seeking out chocolate orbs.
"Hey Cream…where's Cheese?"
Cream's smile slightly faltered, a shard of worry dimming her vivacious eyes.
"He caught a nasty cold yesterday. I spent the whole night with him after the fever hit. He woke up a bit more lively this morning but I'm still worried. I wasn't going to come but mom told me Gemerl would take care of everything." She ended, seeking her mother's eyes for reassurance. Vanilla nodded in empathy, placing a gentle hand on the rabbits shoulder. Amy smiled in understanding, squeezing the doe's hand, an action that spurred a smile from Cream.
Amy always made sure to inquire about the doe's welfare, mainly out of concern but also for personal observation. Although Amy knew the crocodile would never harm either Cream or Vanilla, she liked to stay current. Besides, she'd made a vow before Vector that if he ever harmed Cream or Vanilla she would personally skin his hide and make a beautiful pair of boots and matching purse. Whatever was left she would gladly give to Big for bait…needless to say, the crocodile had one more mortal fear before the day was through.
The sound of a wounded howl perforated the air, drawing inquiring gazes and roaming attentions toward the adjoining kitchen. With an apologetic smile Amy excused herself, motioning toward the sofa. Cream and Vanilla took a seat while Vector wandered toward his partners, the remaining members of the Chaotix.
Amy's calm demeanor transformed into one of trepidation as she wandered toward the kitchen. Inconceivable horrors danced before her eyes and she almost stopped in her advance, debating on whether she should risk personal health for the sake of obligation. Shaking her head at the inevitable she traversed the remainder of the distance, entering the kitchen Releasing a pent up breath she noted that nothing was visibly on fire, near detonation or uncontrollable. Emerald eyes gazed at the robust cat standing at the center of a mound of oatmeal cookies, the pan discarded in an awkward position behind him. Observing the upset look in the cats golden eyes and the row of fingers currently trapped in his mouth, Amy could imagine exactly what happened.
"Big…you didn't forget to use the oven mitts did you?"
His gaze lowered, shame etched into his features. Amy quickly tried to make amends, walking toward the small oak table near the far wall, exhibiting an assortment of treats. She picked up two gingersnaps, handing one to Big and the other to his amphibian comrade perched discreetly on his shoulder, a ribbit her thanks.
"It's okay Big, I can take care of it from here. Why don't you go to the living room? Cream's arrived and I know she'd love to see you again." She coaxed, watching with hidden amusement as his golden orbs lit up with delight.
"Really, Creamy Creams here? You hear that Froggy? Let's go say hi to our friend."
Froggy croaked in acquiescence, grasping his companion firmly as the cat bounded out of the kitchen, injury forgotten at the promise of companionship. Amy shook her head, kneeling to pick up the soiled cookies and throwing them in the wastebasket. Grabbing the broom she cleared the floor of its remaining crumbs, picking up the pan and placing it in the sink with the rest of the dishes. Once she was done she exited the room, catching sight of an astounded Cream caught in Bigs crushing embrace.
Amy chuckled lightly, finding the cats innocence endearing. She knew that many interpreted Big's speech and often one-tracked thinking to mean idiocy and it caused her great sadness to know how undeserved their assumptions were. Big was inexperienced in the world of corporate influence and technological advancement. If nothing else she felt the cat should be admired. If only more were so virtuous in their thinking…the world would be a much better place.
Amy's gaze surveyed the living room, observing Charmy near the snack table, ingesting half of the treats at an incredible speed. Vector stood over him, trying to stop the already overexcited bee from going comatose. And hidden inconspicuously near the shadowed corner stood Espio, body taunt in vigilance as he inspected the room for possible intrusion.
'Really, would it kill him to act normal?'
Amy shook her head, unable to understand what it was that Cream saw in the chameleon. The rose hedgehog had never been one to condemn love based on trivialities such as age and if Cream liked him there must be merit…somewhere. But she knew that Cream would never make the first move. There was, after all the strong friendship/association Espio held with Vector and Amy doubted Vector would be too pleased to hear of his daughters crush.
'Then again, it could be worse. At least it's not a perfect stranger…but a paranoid ninja's nothing to boast about.'
Well, maybe paranoid was too strong of a word…overly cautious seemed much more appropriate. Amy imagined it had something to do with the ninja's nature, the constant awareness key to their success, their survival. After all, prudence was never a fault, only a virtue. But excess was just irritating.
Amy searched for Cream, meeting the rabbits gaze after a particularly animated sentence from Big. With a tilt of her head she motioned toward Espio but the doe quickly shook her head, a small blush covering her cheeks. Amy internally groaned.
'Great. It's Vector all over again.'
Her mind searched frantically for anything that could help, a sign, a hint…
'A large blunt object would be nice'
Emerald eyes sparkled with mischief, a smile seeping across her face. Oh no, she would never meddle in others affairs but intervention was often necessary, especially when both participants were about as willing as a rock.
With slow, measured steps she walked toward the ninja, trying to appear as unobtrusive as possible. Once she was close enough she nodded toward the chameleon who cast her a questioning glance, returning the nod with measured slowness.
"Hey Espio…do you think you could do me a favor?" Amy questioned, lacing her tone with just the right amount of pleading and distraught. Espio seemed wary of her, uncomfortable and Amy knew she would lose him if she didn't do something quickly. Meeting his gaze she gave her most humble stare, hoping that the sense of power would convince the chameleon to stay.
When the ninja nodded Amy internally smiled, fighting to keep control of her features. She didn't want to ruin it with her overconfidence.
"Well you see, it's about Cream. She's been searching for someone to teach her how to use her kunai but no one seems competent enough to instruct her. I know that you're knowledgeable in that area and was hoping maybe…you would teach her?"
"I don't have time to instruct anyone. Detective work is a full time job…an apprentice is not what I need right now. Besides, why does Vectors kid have throwing knives anyway?" Espio asked, eyes slightly narrowed in suspicion. Amy's smile never faltered, her mind coming up with any plausible lie.
"Last year I gave them to her…for her birthday. She told me she'd developed an interest in that field after seeing a documentary of spies and assassins in feudal Japan. She thought it was an interesting art form and with her natural nimbleness and flexibility, I thought it wouldn't be too farfetched of an idea." She covered, pleased with how she handled the situation. When Espio didn't protest she turned around, trying to conceal her smile.
"I hoped that you would be the one to teach her. I've seen your skill. With your instruction, Cream could become quite the little ninja. But on second thought… Knuckles could always educate her. He's pretty proficient in that field, what with being a black belt. I'm sure there's not that big of a difference…"
"Of course there's a difference! Karate, judo, kendo and most other martial arts were never practiced by the ninja. They were formalized in the late Edo period to Meiji period. Ninja's practiced a variant of jujutsu and kenjutsu, something the Guardian could never understand, let alone teach."
Amy shrugged her shoulders. "Oh well, at least he's competent…I'm sure he'll teach her where you could not. Besides, I don't want to impede on your time. I mean, if you can't handle it..."
The rose hedgehog smiled at the sound of incensed footfalls, gaze following the chameleon as he made his way toward Cream. Without preamble he stepped before her, startling the doe. Whether he noticed the sentiment or not she couldn't tell but it didn't deter him from his purpose.
"Tomorrow, the Chaotix training room, three o'clock. Bring your kunai. Be late and we will have serious problems." And with that the chameleon moved away, no explanation toward his sudden outburst. Cream's confused gazed traversed the distance to meet Amy's, her mouth forming inaudible words.
"Kunai?"
Amy smiled, shrugging her shoulders. She had given Cream a knife set for her birthday. The fact that they were kitchen knives didn't mean anything. Okay, so she'd lied…a little. But she swore to everything above that she would get those two together, even if it killed them.
The carillon of the doorbell shattered her train of thoughts and she quickly crossed the threshold of her living room, blowing a kiss toward an irate looking Cream. She quickly opened the door, her smile losing its mirth. Her pulse quickened, blood thrumming through her veins at an implausible tempo. Emerald met emerald in muted silence before he advanced, arms wrapping around her body in greeting.
"Hey Ames. Sorry I'm late. Traffics murder, especially on Christmas Eve." He chuckled, letting go once she reciprocated the hug. His eyes suddenly widened in realization, hand reaching into his coat pocket and pulling out a small box. "Sorry I can't stay, I gotta head over to Tails place. Mystic Ruins been bombarded by snowfall and if I don't start now I'll never get there."
Taking her hand in his gloved embrace he placed the box in her palm, closing her fingers over the adroitly wrapped present. He smiled in farewell, turning to leave when she suddenly called out to him, violently pulled from her stupor.
"Sonic, wait! Didn't you get it…my present?"
The cobalt hedgehog froze in mid step, his body tensing in indecipherable apprehension. With an audible sigh he turned, his face losing its rambunctious grin. Gesturing toward the trees near the boundary of her home he began to walk, his measured footsteps an oddity that set her on edge. Grabbing her coat from the coat rack she closed the door softly behind her, the winds bitter gusts causing continuous shivers to spread through her body.
By the time she reached Sonic he was standing beneath the bleached branches of the old elm that stood sentry before her home. The pure perfection of the mounted snow, so vibrant contrasted with the brittle, dark texture of the tree, accentuating each color to its fullness. The majestic fingers of each branch were decorated with long strand of frozen glass, sometimes in large clusters that resembled the petals of a flower.
Amy gazed at the magnificence of the tree, nature's delicate ornamentation beautiful.
"Amy…how long have we known each other?"
Amy's gaze descended down the tree's bark, coming to rest on expectant emerald eyes. Something about his gaze perturbed her, the orbs that so willingly convey emotion now indecipherable.
"Ten, maybe eleven years."
"It's been that little? .It feels like so much more. It feels as if I've known you for eternity…known all of you for eternity. It's odd, I can't truly remember a time before you guys. Maybe there was no past before you."
Images of her parents came unbidden, her mothers exhausted face always bearing a smile, the fragmented hymn her guide to sleep. She remembered her father, his usually quiet demeanor forgotten whenever she was around. Yes, there was a past, one that was often forgotten but never erased.
"Amy, you've been my friend for more than a decade. You've fought by my side, tended to my injuries; given me hope when all that was left was obscurity. I've grown into someone who has become aware, conscious of others, understanding…all because of you. You've been my guiding light Amy, the humility I've often disregarded in the heat of my own arrogance. And that's why I believed, truly hoped that maybe…I could learn to love you." He ended in a whisper, eyes cast toward the fairy lights glittering in the nearby window. With mild trepidation he reached into his coat pocket, withdrawing a small, inlaid box of gold, his thumb tracing the delicate curves of its designs.
"For years I've wandered, wondering who it is I return for…who guides me back from the brink of oblivion. Who do I strive for, who makes me complete? And I've realized that as much as I wanted it to be you, as much as I hoped that time and contact would bring the feelings you've always sought, the least that I could give you…I realize now that…you're not the one."
Emerald eyes turned toward disheartened orbs laden with tears despite the frantic grasp toward detachment. He knew he'd wounded her, told her the one thing she never wanted spoken. But he understood that the greatest injustice would be to amuse himself with her emotions. To give her the false promise of love, to devout himself to someone he did not care for would be to condemn them both. He'd already wasted years of her life on possibilities and forged adoration. The least he could give her now was her freedom. The freedom to seek someone willing, able to love her. To worship her the way she deserved to be worshiped, to dedicate himself to her the way she dedicated herself to others. To give her contentment where he could not…that would be his gift. And the pain of knowing he'd hurt her, for even a second…that would be his punishment.
Opening the decorative box he withdrew the small golden band, inscribed with the words he could never utter. He placed the gift at her feet, unable to catch hold of the emerald eyes he wished would stop their tears. Finding no other reason to remain he turned, hoping time would heal the wounds he'd unwillingly inflicted.
"Sonic…wait…please."
Sonic stopped, bidden by the uncontrolled quiver in her voice. He turned, expecting anger, a reproachful act, anything other than what he saw.
A smile, perched below emerald orbs swollen with tears. Raising an uncontrolled hand toward the dampness that threatened her discipline she wiped away the traces of misery, she extended her hand, gathering the courage and wisdom that allowed her to stand before him, without judgment or malice.
"Friends?"
He gazed into her eyes, finding the determination she so willingly placed on the battlefield now allowing her to stand before him without scorn. A second later her paw was ensnared in his, his smile wide and grateful for the opportunity, the rebirth of friendship and the hardships, perils and happiness that came with it.
"Friends…now and always" he smiled, winking when she chuckled. In a spontaneous move he wrapped his arms around her, a brotherly embrace. "Thank you Amy, for believing in our friendship." And then he was gone, the blue devil with the devil may care smile . Amy watched his departure, hoping her resolve would withstand. She wondered briefly at her own tranquility, the composure she knew would have shattered in her youth. And with unbidden tears she realized then what she'd known for a while.
He'd never loved her. She knew he'd strived, truly endeavored to return her feelings, to remain by her side in love and fealty. But any fool could distinguish love from debt. He felt he owed her something in return for her devotion and she realized now that was what had driven them to this. Her inability to liberate him in hope of mutual emotion. But unrequited love is suicidal love… it would never survive. She'd rather have genuine friendship that obligatory adoration.
Wiping away the last of desolations tears in lieu of a smile she turned, making her way back toward the party. She held her head high, eradicating her troubles. After all, there was a gathering she still had to attend, guests to entertain. Tribulations would have to wait.
"Goodbye Amy, take care!"
"Bye Cream! And thank you for coming!"
Amy silently observed her friend's departure, grateful for their help. With a sigh she closed the door, the wintry air bristling her exposed fur. She made her way back, observing the sanitary living room and kitchen, spotless thanks to Cream and Vanilla. She appreciated their thoughtful gesture, knowing it would have taken her the entire night by herself. Finding everything to her satisfaction she turned the light switch; casting an expansive coverlet of shadows on all corners of the room, save for the vibrant glimmer of the fairy lights and crystal ornaments, given radiance by the moons glow. She made her way upstairs, opening her bedroom door and crossing the short distance toward her dresser table. She scrutinized her reflection, proud for having kept up her visage throughout the celebration. She didn't want anyone's worry, less of all their resentment. Sonic didn't deserve it.
Reaching toward the hair ribbon she disengaged the knot, placing the silk decoration neatly in her drawer. Instinctively she searched for her comb, hoping to tame the wild tresses when her hand landed on something soft, an article she couldn't discern. Slowly she grasped it, withdrawing the material from its protective compartment with increasing surprise.
The swift kiss of winters chill brushed the nape of her neck, traveling the expanse of her back with measured slowness. On instinct she turned, her eyes ensnared by ruby given life by the silver opulence of the stars.
"Shadow" she whispered tentatively as if afraid the creature would vanish, flesh exposed as illusion.
"Winter has arrived. I thought you could use that back" he motioned, pointing toward the emerald scarf in her grip. She brought the material closer, the scent of rain and earth ensnaring her in his unmistakable essence.
"I'm not the one running around the city in the dead of winter. Besides, it was yours to keep." She answered, walking toward the windowsill where he sat, his back against the mahogany frame, one foot on the ledge, the other precariously perched on the indentations made by the wooden construction.
"I don't need it."
"I'm sorry; I forgot you were the ultimate lifeform. Of course his majesty doesn't feel cold. How terribly mortal." She joked, ignoring the heat of crimson glaring daggers with a sweet smile. He grunted, his gaze breaking from hers to travel into the opaque skies, glazed by cold that gave each breath form.
"How have you been?"
His gaze never met hers, instead roaming the expanse of frozen wilderness that seemed to impede time immemorial, conserving the remnants of life's renewal with a single division of ice.
"I returned to Ark. I hoped to reclaim memories, dispel the hatred that ties me to the darkness. But there was nothing. It reeked of death and sin, unleashed hidden nightmares. Nothing can ever develop or prosper in a place haunted by the departed…so I destroyed it. Ark held nothing but the promise of madness…now its memories are ashes. Hopefully the dead will find peace."
The sentence, spoken so carelessly took time to decipher. But once the implications reached full force she unwillingly shuddered, reminded once again of his power. A creature without cause, created for destruction. A being unconstrained, without the balance necessary for creation. She thought about Maria, his inspiration…the stability needed to be absolute. Without her, he was incomplete, a creature unable to let go of his desire for annihilation. Only insanity could result from such an imperfect unbalance.
"Like the willow discards its leaves you have discarded your memories, left with the sentiment…the scent, the sound, the touch she imprinted. That is her legacy…to be a part of you, not in memory but in existence. She will remain with you forever, pure and perfect. That is the way it should be." Amy smiled, turning toward the indecipherable ruby eyes scrutinizing her. Amy observed the slight darkening of his orbs, her smile losing its mirth. She spoke his name in question, surprised when he cupped her chin, bringing their faces closer until they were nearly nose to nose.
"You were crying." He stated, no questioning undertone distorting its meaning. She broke away from his gaze, staring over his shoulder toward the glassy moon, a crystal pearl in the nights embrace.
"I was so happy to see my friends I…"
"Don't lie to me". The reprimand caused an involuntary flinch, one she couldn't conceal. With measured slowness he released her, allowing her small reprieve of distance. He turned back toward the horizon, his tone clipped with controlled displeasure. "You've just given me one more reason to bury the faker in the ground."
Amy couldn't conceal her astonishment, a blush framing fawn colored cheeks. Had he just…defended her? She shook her head at the inconsequential thought but couldn't suppress a smile, contentment pulsing through her veins.
Moments passed in amicable silence, gazes scouring the realms of reality and illusion, thoughts approaching with varying swiftness before they were gone, extinguished like the tongue of a flame. Amy's eyes wandered toward the backwoods of her home, coming to rest on the transparent crystal that was the lake. A sudden thought surfaced and she turned toward the ebony hedgehog, grasping his hand in urgency.
"What are you…?" Shadow began, only to be cut off at Amy's insistent pulls. She turned in exasperation, motioning for him to follow. Without another thought she was gone, leaving him with the decision to pursue the perplexing creature or leave. But he found he'd recently developed an inquisitive mind when it came to the rose hedgehog and, breaking away from his perch he followed, a sudden burst of wind closing the door behind him.
"What are we doing here?"
"What do you think were doing here? We're going to skate." Amy responded, the enthusiasm in her voice lost on him. She sighed, grabbing his hand before stepping on the thick sheet of ice, pulling at his arm in encouragement. The ebony hedgehog growled, wrenching his hand away, much to her annoyance.
"What's the point in this?"
"Does everything have to have a purpose with you? Can't you just have fun?" she asked, sliding across the lake with practiced fluidity. Silence met her question and she shook her head, moving along the curved paths. She leaned her body radially, flexing her knees and using gravity to control and increase her momentum. It was a liberating experience, the biting cold nipping at her exposed flesh, drawing a pulsing awareness that felt wonderful.
A sudden burst of wind caught her unaware, nearly sending her to the ground. She turned forward, catching sight of the ebony hedgehog, his jet shoes allowing him to hover with expert mobility over the ice. Internally she smiled thought on the outside, all that could be deciphered was a reproachful glare.
"That's cheating"
Shadow smirked, wandering toward her. "No, its called pressing an advantage. There's a difference."
"A technicality, in the end it's the same thing." She explained, shrugging her shoulders. She brushed past him, taking to the ice with rising vigor. She kept her head forward, noting with increasing interest that he was on her heels.
"Is it?" he asked, halting when she stopped before him, hands on her hips in contemplation. Her ears twitched, catching the sound of roaming pigeons, their wings aggressively sweeping through the air in the hope of friction and heat.
"Let's find out. Why don't you try skating without your jets? If you can successfully accomplish it I promise to stop bugging you about it. Deal?" She asked, extending her paw outward in armistice. He stared at the paw offered before huffing, drawing tepid air from his lungs. He moved past her without a reciprocating gesture, much to her annoyance.
She watched as he moved toward the center of the lake, his arrogant bearing something she found rather charming. He always moved as if he had nothing to prove to anyone but rather like everyone had to prove themselves to him. It was intimidating, if not unnerving to those who were rarely in his presence. It always made one unsure of themselves but to Amy it just was a type of challenge. Could she prove herself to him or would she remain the annoying pest, like she had been with Sonic?
The thought gave her pause, a painful contemplation that broke through her observation. She wondered briefly if she had ever truly proved herself to Sonic, as both a friend and possible mate. She had after all helped him through the years, giving him guidance, listening to his qualms, and standing by his side but on reflection she wondered if it had been enough. One thing is to be by someone's side, another is to be acknowledged. Amy doubted Sonic ever truly acknowledged her as his sole confidante, in a manner of love but of friendship. And she had confused both emotions and led him to bewilderment as well. It was a love meant to fail. She accepted that now.
She broke from her thoughts, gazing at the ebony hedgehog who stood proudly at the center of the lake, the heated glow of his jet boots extinguished. Both feet stood on the ice in experimentation, his eyes capturing hers in defiance. He makes one tentative move of his leg but, much to his misfortune, catches a particularly damp patch of ice and falls onto his back, ruby orbs staring at the star glazed sky in bewilderment.
Amy bit her lip, trying hard not to laugh at the sudden display. Once Shadow had regained his bearings he lifted himself to lean on his elbows, his glare meant to quell her amusement but it only seemed to incite it further. "One word and I will kill you." He growled, not at all pleased by the twinkle that lit her emerald orbs.
"But then you'll lose the only person willfully disposed to talk to you. What kind of existence will you have then?" She joked, moving until she was standing beside him. She extended her paw downward in assistance, sighing when he stared at it in wary hostility.
"I was a social recluse for eight years…I think I could manage." Without preamble he took her paw, hoisting himself up with her help. He dusted himself off, catching her contented gaze with a questioning uplift of his brow.
"Should I even ask?"
"You couldn't do it...you couldn't skate without your jet shoes which means I was right." she stated, grinning like a child who'd just been given an early Christmas present. Shadow sighed, taking off toward the surrounding wood.
"Why do I even bother?"
Before the thought could be taken further he felt something strike him behind his head, a poignant prickling left as an afterthought. He pivoted on his heel, unable to scrutinize further when he was struck in the face, forcing him to reel backward from the force. He landed on his back, noting the trill of prominent laughter ringing from above. With a growl he stood, wiping his face of the now melting snow. He turned to look at the rose colored hedgehog, a snowball clutched in her hand and an innocent smile on her face. "Opps…did I hit you? My mistake."
"You seriously want to die don't you?" he asked, grabbing fistfuls of snow from the surrounding area. Her smile widened as she squeezed the yielding snow in her hand, leaving small indentations on its surface.
"What's life without a little danger?" she asked, yelping when a snowball came hurtling toward her, striking the spot where she once stood. She didn't have time to protest before another came and she quickly bounded toward one of the adjacent trees, using the sturdy bark as a shield. She kneeled, scooping up more snow and forming perfectly round snowballs before she stood, daring to look around the tree to spot the ebony hedgehog. There was no one there, no evidence of his presence save for the muddled snow. Her ears twitched, trying to discern any abnormal sound and finding nothing but silence. She moved out from behind the tree, gazing at her surroundings. "Where is he?"
"Were you looking for me?"
Amy quickly turned, hurtling a snowball toward the source of the noise and watching with increasing disbelief as the ebony hedgehog grinned, a sudden spark of golden lightning illuminating his hand. He snapped his fingers, sending the snowball toward the floor in a mist of disintegrating snow before it could touch him. Amy's mouth dropped open, her hand pointing at him in accusation.
"No fair!"
Shadow shrugged his shoulders, his smirk in full evidence. "You never said we couldn't use our powers. Therefore it's perfectly acceptable."
"Fine then, two can play at that game." She smiled, summoning her hammer. She gripped the handle fondly, walking with quick, purposeful strides toward Shadow. She swung at an incoming snowball with all her might, watching as it disintegrated before rushing into a full fledged tackle, hoping to impede another snowball. She heard his surprised shout before he fell, taking the rose colored hedgehog with him. They both landed on the floor, Shadow's groan registering before she had the foresight to raise her head from its position, only to realize how close she was to the onyx hedgehog.
Amy stared into crimson, unsure of why she couldn't move away. Their breaths mingled, their noses nearly brushing in unconscious proximity. His gaze was observant, studying her in a way that both unnerved and flattered. Thoughtlessly he brought a hand toward her quills, brushing away the snow scattered across her pelt. Amy leaned into the touch, her lids lowering of their own volition. She leaned in closer, watching as his blood red eyes darkened, following every movement before a spark of awareness lit up his orbs, causing him to tense. Amy felt the change that overcame him, her eyes opening wider before she moved away, rolling off of his body. With one lithe movement he rose, walking toward the border of the clearing, his gaze scouring the horizon.
"Why did you do all of this?" he questioned, his voice soft. She noted with rising tenderness how lost he appeared, how misplaced. Staring at his unreadable gaze she answered, hoping to give him leverage.
"I wanted to give you new memories, something unplanned, pure, uncomplicated. Something we could both use."
A heavy silence impregnated the air, leaving an unsettling sensation in her stomach. She waited for his reaction, noting there was nothing else she could do. She felt relief when he turned back toward her, his eyes locking with hers.
"I don't understand you."
Amy smiled at the incredulity in his tone. Standing she walked toward him, raising on tiptoe until they were eyelevel. "Good" she breathed, content when she saw how uncomfortable her closeness was to him.
"Why?"
She moved away from him, following the border of the lake that would inevitably lead her home. She stopped, peering over her shoulder toward him. "Because I perplex you and if you ever want to figure me out you'll come back...again and again and again. Because believe me Mr. Ultimate lifeform…I'm complicated." Turning around she made her way back, leaving a confused hedgehog behind.
Shadow wasn't used to challenges, let alone clear cut defiance from others. Complications were circumstances that had to be eradicated, either by force or reason if not complete avoidance. But he realized with a growing smirk that he would stick around for this one. It might just be worth it, to discover the real Amy Rose, thorns and all.
That's Chapter 2. I hope you guys liked it though I still don't. I was planning to branch out from this story and write short stories including all of the other characters as well. What do you guys think, would you like that? Regardless, thank you to those who read and love to those who review. Good or bad its a chance to hear the people's opinions. Hope you guys have a great 2006. May it bring you the best. Bye!