Merry Christmas, everyone. Sorry this one took a while. I wanted to make sure I had everything right. Enjoy.
A few months passed since he set foot in Station Square. The bustling big city was as lively as he remembered. Highways, skyscrapers, energetic people, and the delicious food from street vendors made up just the first part of the city.
"This place hasn't changed a bit," he lowered his sunglasses to see the vibrant colors. His interest landed on the crystal clear waters that stretched indefinitely.
"Oh, I'm definitely hitting the beach later. Those waves are calling out to me."
The green hedgehog checked his bag one last time and then hailed a taxi. The allure of the beach was enticing; however, he had more important business to attend to first. The ride to his destination was a silent one as he re-familiarized himself with the sights.
"We're all in agreement then?"
It was a reasonable question, and yet, it held a ton of weight.
"We're making a big decision here. Once we sign these documents, we're not letting anyone quit. Back out now or forever hold your peace."
No one objected. Even the hotheaded echidna, who previously voiced his refusal to participate, held his tongue.
"Silver," Sonic turned to his little brother. "Now, we've seen you have sparks of inspiration. Do you believe this is the answer to your problem?"
More silence filled the room as all eyes fell on the painter, who contemplated the question asked of him. It was as his brother said. Inspiration would spark to life, but like an explosion, it vanished with the moment. He would return to square one, and his itchy hands become more unbearable.
He hesitated, eventually responding with, "Yes, I'm sure," and calmed his nerves.
"Okay. Tails?" Sonic looked to his little buddy. "What say you?"
"I've always wanted to learn the guitar. Since we're all trying something, this is as good a chance as ever," the yellow fox was less anxious than Silver.
"Amy?"
The pinkette's smile was ethereal.
"We're all in this together."
"Rouge?"
The bat gave the blue hedgehog a wink, answering, "I'm not giving up this opportunity. Although it'll cut into my treasure hunting, I can live with that."
Lastly, everyone's attention fell on the quiet Knuckles, whose lowered head and unreadable expression spoke volumes about the inner conflict unfolding within him.
"Knuckles," Sonic spoke up, "Do I even need to ask?"
All he could do was sigh. In truth, he didn't want to do it, but he was bound by his word, and everyone knew that echidnas kept their words.
Rouge was tempted to slide her hand over and take Knuckles' in hers, but she refrained to avoid setting him off.
"I'll do it," Knuckles replied.
"Alright," Sonic nodded, "now answer that again without your pride getting in the way."
Everyone saw Knuckles restrain himself.
"Silver, are you certain this is the path you want to take?"
"Yes," the painter answered. "I promised myself. I even have a piece started to prove it," his confidence didn't go unnoticed.
"Then," Knuckles swallowed the lump in his throat, "I'll see it through with you. I'm in."
Another brief silence fell over the group.
"Alright then," Sonic took the lead again. "If that's it, let's sign our applications. It's time to take the world by storm."
One by one, the group put pen to paper and finalized their forms.
"There's no going back," Sonic stated.
"You're not making this easier," muttered Knuckles.
"Okay, I'll stop," just in time for the doorbell to ring, but before anyone could answer, the visitor rudely let themselves in and slid into the living room with a humongous grin on his face.
"Yo, what's up, dudes and dudettes?" a green hedgehog greeted. He wore a sleeveless black jacket over a green shirt, which had a rip that traveled across the bottom of it that made it shorter. He also wore a brown belt, brown fingerless gloves, brown boots, light grey pants, and a necklace with a fang hanging on it.
"Manic?" Sonic and Silver were surprised.
"The one and only. How's it hanging?" the three hedgehogs shared a hug. "Wow, Silver, you're still growing?"
"Heh, I wish. Why didn't you tell us you were coming?"
"And spoil the surprise? Nah, bro."
"You're looking good though, Manic. Still practicing the drums?" Sonic inquired.
"Always, Speedy Blue, but lookee here. I like what I'm seeing. The gang's all here. Freight Train and Little Einstein, you guys are a sight for sore eyes."
"Hey, Manic, long time no see," Tails replied.
"Nice to see you again too," Knuckles bumped fists with the hedgehog.
"And nice to see the walking freight train hasn't lost his touch," Manic hissed and shook his hand. "Wouldn't be you though without the monstrous strength."
Manic then turned to Amy and Rouge, immediately doing a double take as he lowered his shades.
"Sweet Mobius, is that you, Amy? When did cute little Rosey blossom into this beautiful woman?"
His words rewarded him with a hug from the pinkette.
"You're sweet, Manic. How have you been?"
"You know me. Was never one to sit still, and Rouge, beautiful Señorita, as ravishing as ever. What can I say that you haven't already heard before?"
"You know it," the sultry bat winked. "Don't let that stop you though."
"Man, it's good to see everyone again. I would've brought Sonia, but she was busy, so I came on over. Sonic told us about your little problem, Silver. Sorry to hear about that."
"I've been coping, but we'll see if Amy's idea works out."
"I'mma be cheering you guys on from the stands. All I ask is that you never forget me when you're all famous."
"Nah, Manic, when I get back my guitar skills, we're bringing Underground back together," Sonic beamed, to which his twin brother mirrored.
"Yes! I can't wait to rock out on the drums again with you and Sonia. Silver, you gonna lend us that velvety voice of yours?"
"After you tell me how you jumped to that conclusion. The only velvety skill I got is painting."
"There's still time to learn. Then, all four of us can be in a band," Manic realized something. "Hold on, wait a minute. Freight Train, you dance? I mean, props to ya, bruh, but I never knew you were about that life."
"It's not exactly my cup of tea," the red echidna said bitterly. "I'm going to try though."
"Dude, you are an inspiration," Manic gave the archaeologist a thumbs up. "What's everyone else taking?"
"Guitar with Sonic," answered Tails.
"Ballet," Amy said.
"I managed to convince the big lug to be my tango partner," Rouge winked at the red echidna, who averted his glare as usual.
"Contemporary dance," Silver saw his brother tilt his head. "It's like improv."
"Oh, I gotcha. I like that, actually. You're not following the norm. Nice."
"First day starts Monday. We get three free days as a trial run before making our final decision."
"Good idea," Manic clapped his hands together and made a chopping motion at Silver. "So, humor me for a second. There's something I need to know."
"What's up?" he became intrigued.
"Sonic texted me a few of your recent works. Great job by the way. That one of Vector and Miss Vanilla was beautiful, but who are Blaze and Barbara?"
No one thought Silver could look paler. His ghostly white turned to echidna red as he rounded on Sonic, his livid frown contrasting with his blue brother's ecstatic grin. Slowly, Sonic backed away with his hands raised while Silver cornered him.
"What did you tell him?!"
"That you were making friends," he answered.
"Silver," Manic took off his shades and grabbed the psychokinetic by the shoulder, "bruh, are you a playa?"
"What?! I am no player!" Silver was offended by such a brazen claim. "Blaze is one of the dancers at the school. She's one of their best. Barbara is a new friend I made while we were at the open house. I bumped into her while helping another friend, Marine, find Blaze."
"Don't be modest now, sweetie," Rouge interjected. "Tell us about how she had your undivided attention."
Silver became a stuttering mess as he tried, and failed, to explain himself. "I-I mean… that is to say. Look, okay, we had a lot in common, so there was plenty we could talk about, and that's ALL we did."
Suddenly, Manic threw his arms around Silver.
"I am so proud!" He cried with tears descending his cheeks. "My little brother is making plays. Please tell me you got one of their numbers."
"Umm," Silver looked away, "I have a picture."
"You do?" Manic's teary eyes were about to burst once more.
"You do?" the others parroted.
"Well, I have Marine's number, and she sent me a picture of her and Blaze."
Reserved in his decision, Silver revealed the selfie in question.
"Blaze is the one on the left."
Manic, after drying his face, wolf whistled. "She is beautiful, Silver. You really know how to pick 'em. And Barbara?"
"Don't get any bright ideas. Blaze and I are only friends and the only reason I have Marine's because I helped her find Blaze. There's no picture of Barbara."
'Because she's Blaze's alter ego.'
Manic shot Silver a smirk. "That just means something more is waiting at the end of the tunnel," he slung his arm around the poor painter's shoulder, "When Sonic told me you might be crushing on someone, I knew it was time to lend my brotherly wisdom."
"Just friends, Manic," Silver reminded him.
"For now. Like I said, bruh, something is waiting for you at the end. Now listen, I gotta know. Do you have the hots for any of them? Also, isn't it weird how their names are so close? Blaze and Barbara sound like sister names."
"Hold up," Sonic took Silver's phone and analyzed the selfie, "I just noticed something. Don't Blaze look pretty similar to Barbara?"
"Hmm, you know, I was thinking the same thing, Sonic," Amy thought back to the times she saw both felines. "That is weird."
"Small world, and I don't have the hots for either," Silver seized his phone. "We are just friends. I don't know how many times I have to say it."
"Whatever you say, Silver. I know you're shy. Don't worry, one of them will fall for ya, just gotta have faith."
It took every fiber of Tails' being not to double over in intense laughter. The whole time everyone was egging on Silver, he was hoping someone would piece it together. Silver's acting continued to impress. He was able to keep up the façade of Blaze and Barbara being different people when in actuality, they are one and the same.
'Please, spare me from this punishment.' Silver whined. 'And here I thought yesterday was bad. Thank goodness Sonia isn't here.'
Silver instinctively buckled down as Manic gave him a gentle noogie.
"Don't get too bent out of shape, bruh. You know I like poking fun at ya. I'm just glad you're keeping your chin up, but let's keep these feelings of yours on the down-low. We can't let Sonia find out about this," Manic hissed, "She'll have our heads, but let's not get into that right now. I have a great idea. Let's hit up Emerald Coast. I saw the waters from the station and knew what I had to do."
The promise of fun in the sun was like Kryptonite. None of them could say no to a beach day.
"Sounds like a plan," said Sonic, who was already envisioning the beach in question. "Silver and I will get the towels."
"I'll make us some snacks," offered Amy, "Do you mind if I use your kitchen, Silver?"
"Sure, Amy, knock yourself out."
"Are we leaving the applications here?" Tails inquired.
"Yeah, I can put them back in the folder until Monday," Silver answered. All that was left was to see what that day had in store for them.
'Hmm, I wonder if they'll like to join us.'
While helping Sonic get everything prepared, Silver shot a quick text to his new seafarer friend.
"Hey, Marine, it's Silver. My friends and I are going to Emerald Coast to hang out. I wanted to see if you and Blaze would like to join."
The response was immediate.
"YES! Blaze is out right now, but I'll gladly come. I'll meet you guys there!"
Silver chuckled. 'She really does like the water.'
Blaze finished splashing water on her face. She felt a little better but still perceived her aversions rise in her chest. Looking up at her reflecting in the mirror, Blaze saw the concerned expression and sighed.
"I'm jumping too fast," she dried her face with a towel. Still visiting the house of Vanilla and Cream, the dancing feline retreated to the closest bathroom to get her thoughts under control.
"I should've taken it slower," she reprimanded herself for being so hasty. "How can I ask a total stranger to be my dance partner when I can't even commit to the idea? I knew this was a bad idea. Why did I let Vanilla trick me like that?"
"You're saying I tricked you, but you are the one who decided to comply with my advice," the hare in question stated. Vanilla peeked into the room.
"You used my weakness against me," Blaze countered. "I've been unable to stop thinking about them ever since."
"That just means they interest you, sweetie."
"They're… a unique bunch," Blaze smirked, "When we were looking for Silver's brother, their friend, Knuckles, yelled out something about chili dogs. It got so quiet before we heard Sonic and his… wife."
It didn't take much to make Vanilla laugh, but imagining Knuckles screaming distaste for Sonic's favorite food was the trigger that made the womanly hare glow with laughter.
"That seems right," she calmed down, "Sonic's love for chili dogs knows no bounds, but you're mistaken about the wife part. Amy is in love with Sonic. The two are not romantically involved."
"Could've fooled me."
Vanilla approached the feline and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"I understand this is not something you're used to, but please give this a shot. I know you've had issues in the past, but don't let that stop you from trying again. It's never too late. If not for yourself, then try for me, please. I would never suggest something if I didn't feel you wouldn't enjoy it."
Blaze bit back a hiss. She let her arms fall to her side and let out a deep sigh.
"It's already too late to take back the offer," she said.
'What a mess I've gotten myself into. Meanwhile, I bet Silver is pacing back and forth.'
"The fact that you're thinking so hard about this is because you're liking the idea. It's got you curious."
Blaze hated that the most.
"He didn't run away, so I can only assume he's genuinely thinking about it too."
'A painter and dancer teaming up. I wonder what kind of works of art could make.'
"Okay," Blaze nodded to the hare, "I'll do it."
Vanilla gave her a little squeeze.
"You won't regret it. Trust me."
"We'll see. I guess I should try to get to know him better. Our dynamic will crumble if we know next to nothing about each other."
"That's a great idea."
Blaze and Vanilla moved back to the kitchen, where atop the dining table, Blaze's phone lit up.
"If you get back and I'm not there, I'm hanging with Silver and his mates. We're going to Emerald Coast. He asked for you too, but I told him you weren't available."
"Marine has already taken a shine to them."
"Are you going to join them?"
"Hmm, I suppose."
"Hey, mom!" the smaller hare called from the other room. "Amy just texted me saying they're headed to the beach. Would you and Miss Blaze like to join us?"
'What is happening right now?'
"How fortuitous. Blaze was just humoring the idea. Why don't you two go and have fun? I'd like to come along, but Vector and I have to get ready for new arrivals Monday. Give Amy and the others my regards."
"Okay, mama. Want to join me, Miss Blaze?"
"Sure, Cream. I'll have to head home first and get a swimsuit first though."
When Vanilla's hand landed on her shoulder again, Blaze knew it wasn't good.
"Don't worry, sweetie. I have a few you can browse through."
Blaze was unable to resist as Vanilla pulled her along.
Emerald Coast's sacred sands were divided into multiple islands and beaches connected by wooden bridges. It was the perfect time of day for fun in the sun. The weather was perfect, the sun was hot, and the sky was clear. No disturbances in the sea, the crystal-clear water invited any person willing to submerge themselves in its warm embrace.
"HELL YEAH!" screamed an enthusiastic Manic as he cannonballed into the water from atop one of the many docks.
"WOOO! That's what I'm talking about!"
"There he goes," Silver sighed. "He could've at least helped set up."
"More reason to dunk him in the water, bro," Sonic chuckled at the idea. The group set up base at one of the rentable cabanas.
"I'm going to enjoy this," Knuckles and Sonic had a silent agreement.
"Come on in, guys! The water's great!"
"In a minute, Manic!"
"He's enjoying himself, isn't he?"
"Tell me about… it."
Sonic's words got stuck in his throat as he set eyes on Amy Rose in her white, two-piece swimsuit. The top was a halter top that went down to her nave, and the bottom was a frilly short that left her legs bare.
"Can't let him have all the fun, can we?" she grinned.
"Uhh, y-yeah, you're right, Ames," Sonic regained his composure. He was trying his hardest not to stare, but his eyes were drawn to the pinkette. He had an idea that she was waiting for him to say something but he couldn't think of anything. He could only look at her and hoped she didn't notice how intensely he was staring.
"I invited Cream. She said she'd be here soon and with a friend."
"Awesome, the more the merrier." Sonic tried to sound upbeat, but he was still distracted by Amy's appearance.
Amy's face lit up and her eyes sparkled. "Oh, this is gonna be so much fun!" she squealed. She ran to the water, taking off her sandals before she stepped in. She could already feel the coolness of the water. The feeling of it around her feet made her shiver in delight.
"C'mon, Sonic!" she called to the blue hedgehog.
Not one to sit around, the blue hedgehog sprinted to the water.
"SONIC BOOM!" the speedster screamed. Manic saw a shadow loom over him. Looking up, he barely had time to cry out before his twin brother tackled him into the water. They both came up together, shaking their heads to get the water out of their ears. The impromptu swimming party was now underway.
"I see how it is, bruh. You wanna go?"
"Let's rumble," Sonic and Manic began water wrestling, laughing and grinning while throwing each other into the water.
"Look out below!"
Sonic and Manic held on for dear life as a red cannonball dived into the water, a geyser bursting from the hole made in the sea. It was Knuckles, coming up for air, that made the incredible splash.
"How's that?"
"Dude, that was amazing!" Sonic cheered.
"Ten out of ten!" Manic clapped.
"I needed this," Knuckles relaxed his body and floated.
"This was a great idea, Manic."
"Right. You guys looked like you needed a distraction. I'm glad to oblige."
"Thanks for the suggestion, Manic," said Amy, swimming over to the boys. "I feel so relaxed now."
"Anytime, but where's my little brother? I know he isn't on shore while we're out here in the water."
"He and Tails are."
"COMING IN HOT!"
Two more shadows loomed over the quartet and expanded rapidly. Before anyone could see what was happening, two huge splashes were made.
Silver and Tails came up and high-fived.
"You called?"
"You almost gave me a heart attack," gasped Manic.
"Nice entrance," Sonic chuckled. "Where's Rouge then?"
"Sunbathing," Silver pointed at the shore.
The group swam back to the sands just in time to hear a voice call out to them.
"Silver-mate! Guys!"
Marine arrived in a black and blue wetsuit with snorkeling gear.
"Glad to see you made it," Silver said.
"Thanks for inviting me. I can't wait to explore the seven seas. There's treasure to be found."
"I like your spunk," Manic introduced himself. "Nice to meet ya, Captain."
"Are you triplets?"
"No, Silver was born a year after us. We have a sister named Sonia. The three of us are triplets," Sonic explained. He threw his arms around his brothers and beamed. "Put all four of us together and we can pass off as quadruplets."
"You won't find a better-looking group of brothers," Manic commented while Silver and Sonic laughed.
"I have a great surprise for you," Marine looked at Silver, "Look at who I bumped into on the way."
In the distance, the group saw a jolly Cream escorting a less than enthused Blaze along. The former wore an orange one-piece swimsuit while the purple cat modeled a red two-piece bikini with a face as red as the echidna garnering female Mobian admiration.
"Hello, everyone!" Cream waved happily, letting the feline go to hug the pink hedgehog.
"Cream, we're happy to see you," Amy said.
"Long time no see, Cream," Sonic ruffled the young lady's head, "Glad you made it."
"I'm so happy to see everyone," the cherry rabbit beamed. She gave off light akin to her mother.
"No way. Is that little Sugar Cookie?" Manic was amazed. "I haven't seen you in forever."
"Mr. Manic!" Cream gasped and hugged the green drummer. "Long time no see."
"You too, Sugar Cookie. When did you get so big and tall? You barely came up to my stomach last time I saw you."
"I've been eating my vegetables," was her response, to which the group laughed.
"It shows, and who is your… beautiful friend here?" Manic noticed the violet feline and resisted the urge to whistle. He already eyed her up and down and liked what he saw.
"We need to stop meeting like this, don't you think?" Blaze looked to Silver and smiled.
"Y-You're not wrong," Silver struggled to find his words. Like Sonic earlier, Silver was stunned by Blaze's attire. The way she pulled it off, the confidence in her walk as she mingled with his friends. Silver was taken aback. "This is Blaze, Manic, the dancer I was telling you about."
"Ahh, you're the one my little bro made friends with. I appreciate that. Name's Manic. Manic the Hedgehog."
"Blaze. Nice to meet you," she shook his hand. "I thought Sonic was Silver's only sibling."
"Nah, he's got two more, but if that's the case, I see how it is, Silver. I don't see you for a couple of months, and you barely mention me in passing? That hurts, bruh."
"You and Sonia never came up. Sonic was with me when we attended the dance school's open house."
"So, there are four of you?" Blaze inquired.
"Yep, our sister, Sonia is the eldest, I'm the second, Sonic's third, and Silver's the baby."
"I see. You four must be quite close then."
"Yep, we are." Sonic finished.
"The best of siblings," Manic stated.
"With a penchant for adventure," Silver commented.
"And it always awaits just beyond the horizon," the three boys came together.
"Well, I appreciate the invitation. Are we enjoying this fine day?"
"To the limit," Sonic answered.
"Thank you again for yesterday," Amy said, referring to her meeting with Gadget.
"You're welcome, but that was only a one-time thing."
"Look at you, Blazey, making a whole crew of friends," Marine nudged her gently. "First, Tails and Silver-mate, and now their whole entourage."
"We're glad you could make it," Knuckles stated. "You're just in time to join the fun."
"Finally, with all that out of the way, who's up for some treasure hunting?" Marine suggested with child-like glee in her eyes.
Knuckles immediately stepped up. "You won't find a better hunter than me."
"Oh really? Is that what you think?" it was Rouge, who mysteriously appeared in her revealing black swimsuit. "Knuckie, I hate to say it, but I believe I have you outmatched, hun."
"Wanna bet?" he growled.
"I'll take you on any time, anywhere," she smirked.
"I'm up for anything," he returned.
"Then it's settled. We'll have a three-way treasure hunt with the three of us," Rouge said.
"I'm in," Knuckles accepted. "We'll have to see who comes out on top."
"Whatever you say, dear Knuckie. Just don't be upset when you come in last."
"Funny, I was going to say the same thing to you. Marine, get your A-game going."
"Bring it on! I'll show you they call me, Captain!" in a shadowy puff, the three treasure hunters disappeared from the group.
"I've never met anyone like them before," Blaze mused.
"Yeah, we're a strange bunch, but all the more fun to be around," Manic chuckled. "I know what I must do. I'm going surfing."
"Ooh, I'm coming with you!" Sonic chased after him.
"Jet skiing sounds like fun," Tails entertained the idea. "Anyone wants to come with?"
"I'll go with you, Tails," Cream volunteered.
"Wait, grab a rope. I want to try wakeboarding," Amy followed along.
That left Silver and Blaze to their devices.
'Did they do this on purpose?' the former wanted to use his powers and dunk them all in the water.
"You have some interesting friends," Blaze said.
'Are they implying something?'
"You can say that again. They can be a handful, but what kind of friends aren't at times, right?"
'Those jerks!'
"Tell me about it. Marine is like a kid supercharged on sweets. She's a good person though, just hardheaded."
"Preaching to the choir on that one," Silver groaned, thinking of his brothers again, but his line of thinking changed when he realized the severity of the situation. His heart sank. It was not prepared to see the Mistress of Regality in a bikini.
"How have you been since yesterday? Have you worked on your apology reduction?" Blaze said to him with an easy-going smile and hands on her hip.
The young man could feel his heart beating faster as he looked at her in awe.
"I-I'm good. Had a hard time going to sleep because I had so much to think about," the two walked along the shore, letting their bare feet touch the water. "As for my little habit, it's as bad as ever, sorry to disappoint."
The cat giggled. "I can't expect a complete one-eighty, I suppose."
"Marine said you were out today. Were you busy? I didn't mean to interrupt whatever you were doing."
"You're okay," she assured him, "I was visiting Cream and her mom when Marine texted me about the beach trip. I was filling out my application sheet. Did you finish yours?"
"Yeah, everything is in order, but I'm still nervous."
Blaze gave a curt nod. "I know how you feel. It was the same for me when I first started. Now, I can't stop going back," she smiled and placed her hands behind her back, doing a quick twirl. "Hopefully, no one will recognize me out here."
"I think you're safe. I'm surprised you didn't come as "Barbara."
"I did while I was going to Cream's house, but I dropped it along the way here. I figured I could afford to be a little more… carefree, like yesterday. "
"Yesterday was a lot of fun. I had a great time," the painter admitted.
"As did I. I'm not used to being left alone. Although, I wish everyone would cease these implications."
"Please, don't remind me. I'm still getting grilled over it. Constantly."
"Give it some time, and hopefully, the heat will die down."
"No, my brothers are stubborn. They'll stop but never forget. It would be even worse if my sister was here."
"Is she that bad?"
Silver hissed. "I have stories."
"Oh? Now you've got me curious."
"I'll tell you some other time. Let's have some fun. You like swimming?"
"I do, but I don't think I'm going to go in. I just prefer getting my feet wet. You can go ahead. Don't worry about me."
"I don't mind keeping you company. I'm not really into water sports like they are anyway," he pointed to his friends making the ocean their backyard.
"You sure? I don't want to impose or anything."
"Of course, I like talking to you. Although, I can't really say I'm the most interesting hedgehog."
"I beg to differ," Blaze stood in front of him, "I was quite enthralled by our conversation yesterday, and I even went as far as to say you and your group had me quite intrigued. So, no, Silver, you're wrong. I believe you are more interesting than you give yourself credit for."
"Wow, thanks, Blaze," Silver was speechless.
"You're welcome," she smiled. "Now, if you're not opposed to the idea, I'd love to hear some of your stories."
Silver laughed and walked beside the feline. The two did a lap around the entire beach, talking, and hanging out. They realized they were having fun just spending time together and continued their walk until the sun started to set.
Back at the first island, they sat on the sandy shore, watching the waves crash onto the sand. The sky was painted in brilliant hues of red and orange, as the sun made its way behind the horizon.
The two sat in silence, soaking it all in.
"I'm glad we got to hang out again," Silver broke it.
"It was my pleasure," Blaze laid on her back, "Thank you for keeping me company."
"You're welcome. I'm glad I can make you feel comfortable."
Blaze let out a small laugh. "Yes, you are a breath of fresh air. I can't remember a time I let myself be so insouciant. I hate having to disguise myself just to enjoy a little peace. I'm glad no one bothered us."
'I'm glad IT didn't bother us.'
"I can only imagine what it must be like, but that's what comes with prestige."
'I didn't hear its voice this time. Maybe I was overthinking it after all.'
"Believe me, it's one of the most bothersome things. Whatever stories you be hearing about famous people, it's not true. Fame is overrated, and when you and your friends start building your reputations, you'll be the focus of a lot of people," she sighed. It was time to discuss that again.
"Everything alright?" Silver sensed some aversion.
"Everything is fine. I'm just enjoying the peace. Come Monday, I'll be back in familiar territory. I guess I'm not ready for this to end. Thank you, Silver. It's all because of you."
A massive blush spread over Silver's cheeks. "Come on, you're making me blush. I didn't do anything special."
"That's not true," Blaze shook her head. "You've done more for me than you know. I can't remember the last time I had so much fun. Yesterday was marvelous, and I have you to thank for it."
Silver's heart skipped a beat. 'Wow, she's serious.'
"You're welcome," Silver managed to squeak out. "There's no need to thank me though."
"If only you knew," Blaze entered a sitting position, "Ask Marine, she saw me practically bouncing off the walls. I'm as defensive as an impenetrable fortress, but I was able to let my guard down around you and be me. It might not mean much in the long run, but I can't thank you enough. Your kindness alone was more than anything I could've asked for."
Silver was not the only one taken aback by the feline's admissions. Even she was surprised by how easily her words flowed from her lips. Her usual stoicism and quiet nature were broken before the white-furred hedgehog's genuineness. Their shock at Blaze's candid speech was more so evident on Silver's face whereas Blaze lowered her head in an attempt to mask her expression.
Another moment of silence fell over the Mobians. With Blaze's heart practically poured over the sand, Silver had to fight the urge to say something that would ruin the moment.
"I," he swallowed the lump in his throat, "I was just being myself," he said calmly.
"I know," Blaze lifted her head. "I'm glad you were."
Silver's heart was racing. He had never experienced this situation before. Words failed him. He had no idea how to respond. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, opened his eyes, and met the stare from the beautiful feline sitting beside him. Her eyes were glistening. She was looking straight at him, but he had no idea what she was thinking. The only thing he knew was that he had to say something.
"Blaze," he called out, "I honestly don't know what to say. That's the first time someone complimented me like that. I'm glad I was able to make you happy, but all this over a painting? Gosh, I don't feel worthy."
"I'm sure you're used to people complimenting you on your artwork. I think my praise is justified. Not everyone can make their works come to life as you can. I guess you can say I'm one of your fans now," the feline laughed.
'And I look forward to seeing more of your skill.'
Silver laughed with her, happy that the conversation wasn't getting awkward.
"I'm nervous too," Blaze admitted. "About the possibility of us working together, I was hesitant when filling out my form. I'm used to working alone, and when I initially made the offer, I was only thinking of how I can help you improve your artistic repertoire. I'm sorry for not considering your feelings on the matter."
Silver waved it off. "No need to worry. I'm not upset over it. I'm just surprised you'd want a total newbie as your partner."
"I figured someone of my expertise would better ease you into things. Together, I feel like we can create something magical."
Silver needed to calm down. His heart was about to give. "You're one of the only people I've met who genuinely enjoy art."
"I have an eye for it, and I understand what you must go through when creating it," Blaze looked out to the horizon. The sun had disappeared, and early night set in. Their time together was coming to an end, and it pained her to leave now. Blaze was having so much fun. It couldn't end yet.
"Hey, Silver?"
"Yeah?"
"If it's alright with you, I'd still be willing to partner up, but I don't want you to decide until you are comfortable dancing with me. I can wait those three days. On that note, may I call my potential partner my friend?"
Silver wanted to cry at such a heartfelt question. After everything they've talked about, trading stories, laughing, and enjoying the other's company, Silver wanted to hug her.
"Aren't we friends already? I thought yesterday was the icebreaker," he gleamed at her instead, which elicited a radiant smile.
"Of course," Blaze's face grew hot. "I'm not so easily swayed, so forgive me for not seeing it."
"I'd love for us to be friends. You're a really interesting person."
Their friendship solidified; Silver was about to explode. His heart couldn't take this intensity.
'Why does it feel like we just became boyfriend and girlfriend instead of friends?'
'Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Come on, Blaze, it was obvious! You never left his side yesterday. Of course, you were friends. We might as well have been confessing our feelings with that performance! Stupid, Blaze!'
"Should we head back? I'm sure everyone's wondering about us," Silver couldn't look Blaze in the face now.
"Sure," Blaze couldn't do the same.
Silver led his new friend to the cabana, where everyone was sitting around the fire pit.
"Yo, look who finally returned," Manic stated, pausing his little drumbeat, "We thought you left, bruh."
"Did you guys have fun?" Amy inquired.
"Seems like it. The sun's already gone down," Rouge eyed them curiously.
"Yeah, we just walked around the beach and lost track of time," Silver gave a nervous laugh. He was prepared for the oncoming assault.
"Well, glad you guys are here. We saved you some sandwiches Amy made," Sonic passed them the basket. "Help yourselves."
Surprise etched itself on the painter and dancer's face. This was the opportune time for their friends to start poking fun, but they carried on as if nothing happened.
'Something isn't right.' Both had an inkling of something waiting in the wing.
"So, how was everyone else's day?" Silver inquired.
"Manic and I rode some wicked waves," Sonic grinned.
"But then a dolphin showed us up and gave Sonic a heart attack," Manic started laughing.
"I thought it was a killer whale! The thing came out of nowhere!" Sonic retorted. "I already have a hard time getting into the water. That's a reason to keep me out of it."
"Dolphins are harmless, bruh."
"Dolphins, yeah. Killer whales, no, hence their nickname."
"Well, Knuckie, Marine, and I had a wonderful time looking for treasure," Rouge showed Silver and Blaze the beautiful pearl she obtained. "Unfortunately, we had to end our competition early."
"I had to save Marine from some jellyfish," Knuckles spoke up.
"Slimy cretins," the captain shuddered. "I hate jellyfish. One stung me right on the back. Thanks again, Knuckles."
"No problem."
"Cream and I had a lot of fun wakeboarding. Some guys even came out and gave us tips," Amy sipped on her drink.
"They were very nice," Cream commented.
"And good at racing. I could barely keep up," Tails chuckled.
"Sounds like everyone had a fun time," Blaze said, the racing of her heart calming down, "I'm," she paused, "I'm glad everyone's as kind as Cream and Vanilla said."
"We're all one big family," Amy stated. "You're always welcome to hang out with us, Blaze. We'll welcome you with open arms."
"We're a little dysfunctional," Knuckles commented with his head in his palm. "We make it work, though."
"Somehow," Tails and Silver chuckled.
"Who's the mom and dad then?" Marine inquired, not hiding her small grin.
Her question caused Manic to burst out laughing, clearly not expecting such a question.
"I'm sorry," he wheezed and turned away from the group. "That got me good. I'm not gonna lie, that's a great question there, Captain. If someone would be so happy to answer."
"I always considered Amy and Knuckles to be the parents," Cream answered.
"Heh, Mama Amy and Daddy Knux," Manic exploded again.
"No, please don't call me that," Amy hid her blushing face.
"Agreed," Knuckles growled, redder than normal. "That's so embarrassing."
"It makes sense," it was Blaze who spoke up. She glanced to Amy first. "You seem like the kind of person always willing but happy to take care of your friends."
Blaze then turned to Knuckles. "You're the protective type, and I bet you looked after Marine the entire time after she got stung, didn't you?"
"Ding ding ding," the seafarer waved her finger. "It was like something out of an action movie."
Cream started giggling. She covered her mouth to stifle the laughter but failed and caught Manic's enthusiasm. "Mommy Rose and Daddy Knuckles."
This time, Marine and Rouge joined Manic in intense laughter.
"Nice one, Sugar Cookie. I can totally see Little Rosey and Freight Train being parents."
"You have a nickname for everyone, don't you?" inquired the fiery cat.
"It's how I show my affections," Manic grinned. "I call Tails Little Einstein. Knuckles is Freight Train, Amy is Little Rosey, Rouge is Senorita, Sonic is Speedy Blue, and Silver's new nickname is Cinna-bro."
"Great," the painter was less than amused.
"It fits too well. I'm not sorry," Manic shrugged. "Anyway, I call Cream Sugar Cookie, and Marine likes to call herself captain, so I followed suit. Would you like one?"
Blaze was hesitant to answer.
"As long as it's not embarrassing, I don't mind."
"Tigress it is," Manic grinned.
The group shared a laugh aside from the feline, who only smiled at their antics. How they talked and joked around, it was nice to see. How they didn't question her or invade her boundaries, Blaze enjoyed it. She liked their company.
Looking down at her hand, Blaze studied it carefully. Her curse did not ruin her day, but there were still problems she faced.
'I have to get it under control before it's too late.'
She committed the merry smiles of her new friends to memory as her hand began to shake.
'I won't let it ruin this moment.' That was a vow she promised herself.
'I won't let Iblis have its way.'
