(AN: SLIGHT INDICATION OF RAPE, EVEN THOUGH IT EXPLAINS THAT IT WAS CONSENTED. SOME BLOOD AND GORE. AND AT THE END, WHEN ERIS IS IN HER MIND, IT IS HER SELF-CONSCIOUSNESS AND ERIS TALKING TO ONE ANOTHER. I THINK THAT IS EVERYTHING I NEEDED TO POINT OUT. AS ALWAYS RATED M FOR 18+ FOR ALL ADULT THINGS. SO READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. OH, AND HAVE A BOX OF TISSUE READY.)
ROSEWOOD ACADEME HIGH
CHAPTER 4… A Broken Angel Rises from the Ashes...Part 2
At the airport…
Mr. Echidna! MR. ECHIDNA!
Knuckles looks to who was calling to him and sees a woman waving at him. His eyes narrow and hurries over to her.
Are you calling for me?
Oh my…. Your father wasn't kidding when he said you were a big guy and I couldn't miss you.
Knuckles hums out, becoming slightly annoyed as he looks at the woman before him.
Do you mind?
Oh...Right, Right, sorry. So sorry Sir. My name is Valery Squirrel. I'm one of your father's new employers, and I'll be coming with you to work under your orders till further notice. He asked me to come find you and lead the way. So please, follow me.
Valery was an Indian Giant Squirrel. Her fur was a deep maroon color, with hints of dark purple in her fur, and her arms were cream from the partway up her wrists and had orange hands. Her long tail was the same as the rest of her, with a dark purple patch at the base of her tail going about three-fourths of the way down, then back into that deep maroon color, till about two-thirds of the way it started to turn tannish orange with a bit of white tuft. Her chest and underside of her arms and legs were cream in color. Though one couldn't with her maid outfit on. Her silky brown hair was long, reaching just past her shoulders and to just the top of the middle of her back, and had streaks of black. Her ears were small and rounded, and the backs were the same as her fur, why the insides were cream. Her eyes were a vivid orange, almost golden in color. She was four feet high, and just under Knuckles seven feet, and her tail was two and a half feet long. All in all, she was a very beautiful Mobian.
Knuckles nodded as Valery led the way. They hustle down the terminal and to where the airport kept the planes he and his family owned. They make a stop, and right away Knuckles whips out his phone and texted Reggie letting him know he was about to board his plane. Once done he shuts it off, and puts it in his pocket, and meets up with Wyn at the steps.
Knuckles, are you ready?
Hey, dad, and yeah I am.
Good. They're getting the final preparations ready now.
Good, the sooner I get out of here, the better.
Indeed.
Come along now, and let's get you settled in.
Wyn shows him to the plane and they board it. They get him settled in, just as the pilot lets them know they were about ready to take off, once they got word to go.
Right, there isn't much time to say goodbye, but know I'll miss you, Knuckles.
I know, I'll miss you as well, dad.
Before you go, keep this safe for Eris if you would please.
Wynmacher takes something small out of his pocket and hands it over him. It was a small rose-pink velvet box, with a gold rim around it, keeping it closed.
Wyn?
It...It was something I've been wanting to give to her for some time now. It belonged to my mother. It was something she always admired and loved.
Wyn?!
Please. I had planned on giving it to her for her sixteenth birthday, and I know if my mother was still around, she would not only have loved Eris as a daughter but would want her to have it.
Knuckles nods at him, smiling.
I'm sorry, but I can't do that.
Knuckles?
You should give it to her, not me. She's going to live, Wyn. I promise you. And when she does will plan that big sweet sixteen birthday for her like we've been talking about. Just wait and see.
Wynmacher smiles at him, and nods.
Y-you're right, Knuckles. I was a bit foolish just then.
Knuckles places a hand on his shoulder and smiles at him.
You were not. You're worried and scared just like the rest of us. Even mom was to the point she finally broke down.
Lara?!
Both she and Mace gave me something for Eris. But this? This is something altogether special, and YOU have to be the one to give it to her, not me.
Wynmancher smiles and nods, understanding.
You're right. I do need to be the one to give it to her.
I'm sorry to interrupt here, but I just got word a storm is on its way in, and I would like to be in the air in five before it hits and we're not able to leave till it passes, and with everything going on, and Master Wynmacher calling me from home on my week off, I get the feeling things are bad. Especially with as long as I have been with you all, I know when something is dire. So please say your goodbyes, and get buckled in, Master Echidna, sir.
Thank you, Calais, just give us a couple more minutes.
Calais nods and heads upfront to get ready.
Alright. This is it. Call us once you've landed, and let us know what is going on. Your mother has already called ahead to the Golden Emerald, and they will be expecting you once you go to see Eris. Remember to call Reggie just an hour ahead of time to come get you.
I will.
Also, remember that you'll start classes in two days so make sure you're ready. We've spoken to Ms. Rosewood, and she said she is having a rush order on your school uniforms made, but till then she said to at least wear something appropriate.
I will, I have a few of my best suits with me.
Good. We'll send the rest of your things to you in a few days' time. If there is anything you need, just call us. We are sending some of our staff with you, and our newest member, Valery, with you. She will be your personal maid, and assistance, along with Jeremiah.
Jeremiah?! But he's yours and Mom's butler, dad.
Yes, I know. But he has family in Soleanna, so this gives him a chance to see them, and it was your mother's idea since he has been missing them a lot lately, especially since he became an uncle of late and has yet to see his baby nephew in person. So we figure we'd kill two birds with one stone. So please treat him well.
I will.
Lastly…
Alright, everyone, it's time to say your final goodbyes. We've just been given the OK to head to the main airstrip and start preparing for take-off, over.
Wyn looks over his shoulder a bit annoyed, and with a heavy sigh he looks back at Knuckles and nods.
I guess this is it. Be careful, and be safe, my son.
I will, dad, I promise.
With a nod, they hug, and Wynmacher leaves the plane. Knuckles sits down, and buckles in, as Valery sits next to him, in the double person seat, as the rest put his things away.
Alright, everyone, this is your captain speaking. We will be leaving shortly, so please make sure you are all buckled in and are ready. We are now pulling onto the main airstrip, and have been given the OK to start take-off. The wind is at a mild fifteen mph, and coming in from the east. The weather, for now, is slightly cloudy, with a storm coming later tonight, but do not worry, we should be ahead of it before it hits. Our EST for arrival is around eight in the morning. The time right now is five forty-five. So relax and leave the flying to us. Over, and out.
Everyone finishes and sits down, and buckles in. With the last call, Calais slowly pulls out to the airstrip, and the plane picks up speed. The whole time, Knuckles had his chin on his hand that was resting on the arm of his seat. He looks out the window, till he closes his eyes and sighs out. His thoughts were quiet, with only Eris on his mind, when something snapped him out of it. He opens his eyes and glances out the corner of his eyes, to see, Valery clinging to him, and hiding her face in his arms. She was shaking, and her beautiful fur was starting to stick up a little bit. He raises an eyebrow for only a short moment, but closes his eyes once more, and pulls his arm free of her.
She gaps out, realizing what she had done, but before she could do or say anything, he pulls her close and holds her. She blushes a bit, as her ears fold back in shame, but she hides her face once more, as she clings to him. Wrapping her tail around her.
It's alright, Miss Squirrel. There is no reason to be scared.
This only makes her hold onto him even more. But in just a few short moments, they were finally in the air, and Calais had even out the plane.
Alright, everyone. We are now in the air, and you may now safely move about the plane.
Calais said over the intercom when a new voice called out annoyed.
Miss Squirrel!? That is no way to behave around Master Knuckles. You stand up right now, and apologize to him, this MOMENT!
Valery eeks out and pulls herself from Knuckles when he goes and pulls her back close, as he looks up at the one who spoke.
Cool your jets, Jeremiah.
Knuckle tells him in a slight tart voice.
Knuckles, this is no way for a maid, or a lady to behave. Now, as your butler, I think I have a right…
To shut up, and cool your jets. I don't mind. Can't you see she's scared right now?
B-B-but, Knuckles…
But nothing. Just leave her alone. She will stay close to me till she feels better. Now stop nagging her, and me both, and do your job, and bring me something to drink, and why you're at it, bring Miss Squirrel something to calm her nerves.
Jeremiah stands there for a moment with his mouth gaped open like a fish. He finally comes out of it, and sighing out, he bows to him.
As you wish, Master Knuckles. I'll be back in just a moment.
With that, he turns on his heels and leaves. Knuckles sighs as he looks down at Valery.
Are you alright, Miss Squirrel?
All she does is nod in the nook of his side.
I take it this is your first time flying?
She sighs out, and looks away in shame with folded ear, but stays close to him.
N-no, sir...It's not that…
Knuckles tilted his head and was about to ask her what she meant, but the plane bounces a bit and she shrieks out and once again clings to him shaking like a leaf.
You're scared of heights, aren't you?
He asks as more of a statement than a question. All she does is nod. Knuckle hums out, but nods.
Why didn't you say anything to my father?
She sighs out, and looks to the front, but stays close to him as she answers him.
I-I-I tried to tell him when he told me I'd be flying with you to Soleanna. But so much was going on at once, and everyone needed him for this or that, I never got the chance, because here I am. I only started yesterday. I had assumed that I would be working from within your home as a housemaid, not flying all over. A-A-And it's not just the heights, but flying in general. I have never been a big fan of both for obvious reasons. A-And the worst part is, I was rushed to get ready. I forgot my anxiety medicine back home.
Knuckles sighs out but nods in understanding. Jeremiah soon comes back with something to drink for Knuckles, and some Nature Essentials fast-acting calming stress relief gummies for Valery.
Take two of those when you need them. But you should be fine till we land. These are fast-acting, so they should work within a few minutes. One of the other staff members has a bit of vertigo, and it has been known to cause them some stress. So we keep them on hand. Once we get there, I'll personally see to it that we get you a new prescription of your meds once we have settled in. Till then keep that bottle close by. If there isn't anything more you need, please excuse me, I need to get Master Knuckles' room ready.
Th-thank you Jeremiah.
But of course my dear, and please forgive me for not noticing sooner of her plight.
He bows and leaves to go take care of Knuckles' room for the night, as she takes a couple of gummies. Sighing out, Knuckles reaches for his glass and sips from it and sets it back down.
Until we land, you are to relax and not do anything more. So for now, just head to your cabin, and rest up.
B-B-But SIR!? There is no possible way I could. I'll be alright once the gummies take their hold over me.
Sighing out annoyed, Knuckles removes himself from her hold, and stands up, walking to the front. He stops by the door and looks over his shoulder narrowing his eyes.
I wasn't asking you, Miss Squirrel, I was ordering you. Now do as you told, and go rest.
With that, he knocks on the door to the cockpit and someone answers it. A few words were spoken, and he enters as Calais walks out and to the back as Knuckles takes over flying to get his mind off things.
At the Hospital… 2:45 am…
Shoes click on the linoleum floor, as a nurse walks down the hallway from checking on her patents of the night. She stops to talk with another nurse about someone in her care and moves on. She stops at her desk to file some paperwork real fast and sits down. She liked the night shift, it was nice and quiet from the daytime shift. Even though it kept her from her family, the gentle sow loved working here. She at least had the daytime to spend with her family some, and then Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off, along with Holidays. She smiles as she sees the picture of her husband and two children, two boys. One of them was fourteen and the other had just turned three.
With not much to do and most of her paperwork done, for now, she decides to take a little break, and takes out her tablet, and starts planning her family's vacation she had promised them. As she was looking at things, a new set of shoes clicked against the floor, and the person stopped at her desk and gently knocked on the counter to get her attention. She looks up smiling and sets her tablet down.
Working late once again I see, Dr. Robotnik?
He chuckles out softly, as he strokes his mustache.
Indeed I am, and what about you, Connie?
Oh, it's the same as always with me. Not much to do with it being so quiet right now. Most I'm doing is planning my family's vacation.
Oh, any ideas where you want to go?
The kids want to head to South Island, and Twinkle Park. But my husband wants to do something a bit more adventurous.
What about you?
I want to go somewhere with a beach spa where I can just relax, and not do much.
Hmm… So all of you have ideas of what to do, but now sure what to do, huh?
That's right.
Mind if I make a suggestion?
But of course Doctor.
What about the Interstellar Amusement Park?
The Interstellar Amusement Park?
Yes, it's an Amusement Park that has several different planets connected to it. One is the Famed Home World of the Wisps.
What else does it have?
I would think everything to make your whole family happy. It has a tropical resort that has everything you would want for a relaxing spa day. Then there's Starlight Carnival that the kids would love. Then there is Game Land, I think that is self-explanatory, hehe. And with Planet Wisp, I think your husband would get the adventure he is looking for. There is so much to do. I remember taking my family there one time and they loved it.
Connie hums out a bit and looks up the Park.
It says here that it's in SPACE!?
Dr. Robotnik chuckles out.
Indeed, but that's just as fun. You'll all ride the Ultra Accelerator Elevator, which will take you all up there and right to the heart of the Tropical Resort within an hour.
Oh my! This does…
Just as she was about to finish what she was saying, an alarm goes off, and right away she sets her table down and looks at the monitors and gaps out.
WHAT IS IT, CONNIE?!
IT'S THE MONROE GIRL! SHE VITALS HAVE DROPPED.
WHAT?!
Right away Doctor Robotnik and Connie run down the hallway and to the ICU they had Eris in, already the night shift was rushing about trying to see what was going on.
WHAT'S GOING ON?!
WE DON'T KNOW, SIR! SHE WAS FINE JUST A LITTLE WHILE AGO, BUT HER BLOOD PRESSURE DROPPED ALL OF A SUDDEN!
PULSE RATE 234 BPM, AND RISING! 236….243… 246... SIR, I THINK SHE IS GOING INTO CARDIAC ARREST!
WHAT! QUICKLY, GET HER STABLE RIGHT NOW! SOMEONE GET A DEFIBRILLATOR IN HERE RIGHT NOW!
ALREADY ON IT, DOCTOR ROBOTIC SIR!
250...255...256...SIR SHE'S GOING TO FLATLINE!
Doctor Robot quickly rips open her hospital gown and takes the defibrillator paddles and rubs them together.
SET THE DEFIBRILLATOR TO TWO HUNDRED VOLTS NOW!
RIGHT AWAY!
Just as he says that Eris flatlines as he yells out.
CLEAR!
Everyone moves out of the way as he places the paddles on her chest, and shocks her. Her body lifts off the bed as the heart monitor beeps a couple of times, then flatlines once more. Growling out, he tells them to turn it up to two hundred and fifty volts. Connie does so, and once again he yells clear, again, Eris rises off the bed, and falls back down, as the monitor beeps, then flat lines. Growling out, he decides to risk it.
TURN IT TO THREE HUNDRED FIFTY NOW!
Connie does as she is told, and hits the charge button. The defibrillator lets out a high pitch, as he rubs the pads together.
CLEAR!
Once again everyone backs off as he shocks her once more. Again, her body lifts off the bed, and for a moment nothing happens. Everyone holds their breath for what seemed like a couple of hundred decades. But the heart monitor finally beeps out and stays steady. All at once everyone lets out the breath they were holding, and right away, Doctor Robotnik takes his stethoscope and listens to her heart. He hums out and turns into a low growl and he puts his stethoscope in his pocket.
GET HER TO THE CAT SCAN NOW! HURRY!
RIGHT AWAY DOCTOR ROBOTNIK, SIR.
At once they unhook her, and rush her to the CATs, and set her up.
Sir, what is going on? What happened?
I'm not sure yet, but we're about to find out, Connie.
As they entered the room, the rest of the staff were already placing Eris on the table and prepping her. Once they are done they leave the room, and Doctor Robotnik starts her CATs right away.
Hmm… This isn't good.
Sir?
Look here.
He points to the right pulmonary veins.
Pulmonary embolism?!
Yes. We got to her in time, but this isn't good. From the looks of it, this could be her life, if more show up. We need to get her stable enough for me to get in there and remove that one now.
QUICKLY, WHAT ARE HER STATS!?
She's looking stable for now sir.
Growling out, he nods.
Right, get her prepped now! Take her to operation room two stat! I need to get in there and get the clot out!
RIGHT AWAY SIR!
Connie, call Mr. Lockwood right away and let him know what is going on.
Right away sir.
Connie leaves to go call Reggie, as he rushes out with his team and down to the operating room two.
At the desk, Connie sits down and dials Reggie.
Eris home...3:15 am…
Reggie's phone goes off, as he mumbles out and rolls over, and picks up his phone, squinting at the caller ID he answers it in a still half asleep tone.
Hello?
Mr. Lockwood?
Yes, this is me. Who is this?
I'm sorry to call so late at night, sir, but my name is Connie Juliana. I work for the Hospital young Miss Monroe is at.
At hearing Eris's name, Reggie comes fully awake and throws his blankets off him, and turns on his bedside lamp, and puts his glasses on.
Eris?! I-Is she alright, what happened? What is going on?!
I was told to call you and let you know that we're taking her to operation room two now.
WHAT!? WHAT IS GOING ON?! WHAT HAPPENED!?
Mr. Lockwood please, calm down. She is alright for now, but there was a blood clot that caused her to go into cardiac arrest.
WHAT!?
Reggie was already rushing to his closet to get dressed when the door to his room flies open and someone growls out.
LOCKWOOD, WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS YELLING AT THREE AM!
Reggie pokes his head out of his closest, seeing Mr. Monroe standing there looking annoyed.
I-I-I'm sorry sir. But it's Eris!
Mr. Monroe scoffs out with a roll of his eyes as he folds his arms.
What has the worthless wench done now?
He asks. Reggie narrows his eyes at him and shakes his head.
You're DAUGHTER almost had a heart attack due to a blood clot, sir. She is going into surgery once again right now as we speak.
Mr. Monroe scoffs out once again and lets his arms rest at his side.
I see. And I should care WHY again?
Mr. Monroe!? She is your DAUGHTER! Your flesh and blood and you're still going to ignore the fact that she is around?!
Like I keep telling you, Reggie, I have no daughter. She died with her mother. That girl that is with me right now is some tramp I've been looking after for a while now and will continue doing so till I feel like throwing her out or whatever. Now keep it down, I need to be in the office early in the morning.
Mr. Monroe, I beg of you, PLEASE. That is Eris, your daughter. Your little girl. I know somewhere inside of you, you still recognize her as such. But you refuse to acknowledge the fact she is, or you wouldn't be keeping the both of us here right now.
Mr. Monroe growls out and grabs ahold of the doorknob as he points a finger at him yelling at him.
YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT ME, OR WHAT MY REASONS ARE! OR THE FACT OF WHY I KEEP THAT BITCH AROUND! I TOLD YOU WHEN YOU CAME BACK YOU ARE HER CHARGE! I WILL CONTINUE TO DO AS I PLEASE WITH HER AS I SEE FIT TO, WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT! SO THEREFORE YOU DO AS I SAY WHEN I SAY! UNDERSTOOD!? YOU AND THAT WORTHLESS TRAMP! AND AS FOR FUCKING KNUCKLES, LET HIM KNOW I DECIDED TO NOT LET HIM STAY HERE! I WAS HIGHLY THINKING OF LETTING HIM STAY TILL YOU JUST HAD TO OPEN YOUR BIG FAT BEAK AND REMIND ME OF THAT THING ONCE BEING MY DAUGHTER WHEN SHE IS NOTHING MORE THAN A PAWN TO ME NOW!
Mr. Monroe yells out, as he turns around, slamming the door behind him. Reggie was left standing there as Connie tried to regain his attention. After a moment he remembers her on the phone and sighs out answering her.
Yes...everything…is fine. I'm on my way down now, Mrs. Juliana. I should be there within an hour.
Before she could let him know he could stay home and she would make sure she called him back in the morning, he hangs up and finishes getting dressed, and heads out. As he pulls out of the driveway and turns onto the main road, he asks his online AI to call Knuckles.
Magnolia calls Knuckles.
Calling Knuckles now...Calling Knuckles now….Calling Knuckles now…
Magnolia repeats till he hears a clicking sound.
Knuckles? Knuckles thank the Chaos…
Hey, you reached Knuckles. I'm not able to reach my phone right now, but if you leave me a message I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
The phone beeps and Reggie growls out as he leaves him a Message.
Knuckles, this is Reggie. I'm calling to let you know that Eris had a heart attack due to a blood clot. She is going under once more to have it removed. I don't know if I'll be able to come to get you or not, but please call me once you revive this, I'll keep you posted on how she is doing. But I beg of you to get here as soon as you can.
Reggie reaches over and hangs up as he looks back to the road and drives onward to the hospital.
At Shadows house…
Most everyone within Shadow's home was asleep, the only one not was Mephiles, who was working a bit late himself finishing up some paperwork for his company. He adjusts his glasses he had on, and looks at some finalizations, and sighs out. He sets the paper down, and leans back into his seat, and takes his glasses off, pinching the bridge of his nose as he closes his eyes for a moment, and turns his chair around as he faces the windows. As he relaxes, the door to his office opens up, as someone comes in cooing out. Mephiles right ear twitches and he glances over to see who it was.
Well, hello there little one.
He puts his glasses back on, as Jazz flies into the room looking a little bit lost, and worried. Getting up he walks over to her and takes hold of her as she tilts her head at him as a question mark pops up over her head.
I see you learned to fly, but what are you doing up so late.
Chao cha?
Mephiles chuckles out softly and gently boops her.
No, I am not Shadow little one. But if you are here, where is my younger adoptive brother at?
Cho cha? Chao cha cha cho.
I see. I think I know where we can find him. Let's go.
Keeping hold of Jazz, he walks out of his office, and turns off the lights, and heads down the hallway to his left. As they walk, they head back upstairs, and near Sonic's room where they see a light on. Mephiles looks in on Sonic and sees he had passed out at his desk yet again. Chuckling out softly, he walks in, and sets Jazz down on the desk, and puts a finger to his lips to let her know to be quiet to not wake him. She nods, as he picks Sonic up, and puts him to bed for the night, and goes over to his desk to turn off his lamp when he sees what he was working on.
You are very persistent Sonic. Do you know that? But I am glad you're trying. I just hope it does more good than bad in the end.
On Sonic's desk was not only his finished homework, but he had his laptop opened and on a website that had all sorts of things a woman, and teenage girls would like, and he was making a list of things, for what looked like a basket for Eris.
Hmm...I think she'll like that...no...maybe that…no...defiantly that...but what if...she has it...wild guess….get...Too-ca...Loo-ca...everyone...loves her…
Mephiles chuckles out as he looks over at his brother, smiling, as he looks over at Jazz.
Wonder if he knows to get Koo-Ka Koco as well, they are siblings after all. Don't tell anyone, but I'm a slight fan of Foxy Yum Yum and friends.
He winks at Jazz who smiles. He sits down and looks at the list of things he had picked out personally for Eris, and smiles. Just before shutting down Sonic's laptop, he looks up Koo-Ka Koco, and adds it to the list of things, and hits the checkout button, and orders everything himself, but under his card number. Once done he shuts everything down, and turns everything off, and picks up Jazz, he shuts off the desk lamp and heads back out, closing the door behind him softly so as to not wake up Sonic.
Once again they make their way down the hallway, and they come across Maria's room. He gently opens her door, and he peeks in to make sure she is alright. With a nod, he closes it and heads back down the hallway. They near a new set of stairs and they head up them, and to a door, where they see a light shining from under it, and Mephiles nods.
I thought we'd find him here.
Taking hold of the doorknob, he opens the door, and it softly lets out a squeak. As they open it, a soft light shines from a lap further into the room, and sitting on a window bench looking out the window, was Shadow. His back was against the frame, and he had his left leg bent as he rested his arm on it, letting his right leg hang over the side.
Brother?
Shadow's right ear twitches, but he doesn't look at his brother, but instead keeps looking out the window. Mephiles sighs out, and walks in, as Jazz wiggles herself free, and flies over to Shadow happy to have found him. She hugs the side of his head, and he couldn't help but softly chuckle out, and return the gesture. But he soon returns to his quiet state. Mephiles sighs out, and walks over to him, and takes on the same pose as Shadow. They were quiet for a bit till Jazz flies over to Mephiles, and sits on his shoulder cooing out, making him chuckle.
So she can fly now? That should lead to some trouble.
Mephiles stats, as he scratches behind Jazz's ear getting a purr out of her.
Yeah, she figured it out shortly after dinner, and she's been practicing since. I guess she finally mastered it.
It was all he said without looking at his brother. Once again they were quiet. Mephiles remembers when Shadow first came to live with them, and he had found him up here when he was just a little kid, no more than five. He had gotten lost exploring the house and loved it up in the attic, and this very same spot. He had found him, looking intently out the window and when he asked him what he was doing up so late, he told him he was watching the stars fall out of the sky.
I remember the first time I found you up here. You had woken up in the middle of the night, trying to find me, and found the attic instead, it was here we watched the meteor shower together. Do you remember what you asked me that night, as we watched them?
Shadow chuckles out smiling.
I asked if the Star Angels would be alright since it was such a long way down from the sky. You told me that only bad Star Angels fall out of the sky because it was their punishment for doing bad things.
That's right, I remember as well. I also remember you asking if your mom and dad were Star Angels and if they were good ones.
You told me, you met them a few times and said they were very good people, so they would always live up in the night skies forever.
Indeed.
Once again they go quiet for a time, not a sound was heard, other than Jazz purring in Mephiles lap. Shadow looks up at the night sky and lets a heavy sigh out as he closes his eyes for a moment, till he looks at his older brother as a tear falls. Mephiles sighs out, moving Jazz aside, and nods at him, and he goes over to him and lays in his lap, wrapping his arms around his midsection, and cries. He gently strokes his quills as he looks out the window once more and at the night sky, remembering the last time he had seen Shadow cry.
It was back when Maria had gone into a coma herself, and no one, not even Gerald, knew if she would ever come out of it or not. But when she did, he was so happy, and he promised himself he would never let anyone see him so weak and vulnerable again. But now he knew that the tears he cried were not for their sister, but Eris. He knew he felt so helpless right now. So vulnerable right now, and unable to do anything to help the girl. It had only been a few days since everything happened to her, and was forced into a medically induced coma to help her heal. He knew this was stressing Shadow out with worry, and he wished he could take it all away, and make it better.
Shadow?
He gently speaks to him.
Shadow, there is something you should know.
I...I already know… I heard you talking with….with Connie...when...I was coming back...from the kitchen...getting some milk...Just please...please tell me she will...make it...Please, Melmel…
Mephiles sighs out, and wraps his arms around him, and holds him.
She'll make it, Shadow. They managed to find it in time and they're going to get it out of her. I promise, she will make it.
It was all Shadow wanted to hear, and nothing more. For a long time, they stayed like that, till Mephiles could hear the soft breathing of Shadow having fallen asleep in his lap. Much like he would do when he was just a little boy. Letting out a heavy sigh, he gently nudges Jazz awake, and tells her it was time to head back down, and put Shadow to bed. She nods as he gently removes Shadow from him, careful not to wake him up, and he rolls him over and picks him up.
Jazz, will you turn the lamp off once I am at the door, please?
Cho, cha.
As soon as he gets to the door, he nods at her, and she turns the lamp off and flies over to him, and they head back downstairs. Once back at Shadows room, he goes in and puts him to bed. Jazz yawns out and snuggles up to him, as Mephiles smiles.
Sweet dreams the both of you.
He shuts off the bedside lamp and walks out, closing the door behind him. Sighing out, he stretches out and lets out a yawn.
Are you heading to bed now too, brother?
Mephiles chuckles out, as he looks over his shoulder and at Maria.
Shouldn't you be in bed, dear?
Yes, but I had to use the restroom and heard you coming from upstairs. Is Shadow alright?
He's fine. He just has a lot on his mind right now.
Mephiles walks over to her, and lets himself in, and helps her back in bed. She gets comfortable and he takes a seat on the edge of her bed.
You really should rest, Mel. Staying up like this isn't good for you.
He chuckles out, smiling at her.
Yes, well. Someone needs to watch over you three why father is working.
Hey, I can watch over myself. Thank you very much. I am twenty-two you know?
He chuckles out again and nods.
My bad. Please, forgive me.
She nods, smiling at him.
I forgive you, Mel.
Good. Now you may be able to watch over yourself, but what about, brat, and brattier?
Maria thinks for a moment, giggling out.
You're right, they do need looking after, don't they?
Indeed, and that falls on me when father is gone.
Speaking of which. Is he home yet?
I'm afraid not.
He answers sadly.
What happened?
It's the Monroe girl. Just as he was getting ready to leave, she ended up having a cardiac arrest. She flat-lined for a short bit, but they managed to revive her. They found a blood clot leading from her heart to her lung, and they went in to take it out.
WHAT!? OH NO! MEPHILES, SHE WILL BE ALRIGHT WON'T SHE?!
Maria asked worriedly, as she sat up. But Mephiles gently pushes her back down and places the covers back over her.
Please, try not to worry yourself, my dear. She will be fine, I promise. Father is going to make sure of it. There isn't much we can do right now, but pray and hope she will make it. If anything, we need to keep an eye on, Shadow.
Shadow?!
Yes, if anything, he is scared shitless right now. He overheard me talking with Connie when he was coming back from getting some milk. I was in my office finalizing some paperwork when he heard me talking with her. It was Jazz who found me and said she couldn't find him. I ended up finding him in the attic.
The attic?
Yes. The very same spot I first found him when you went into a coma for a year and a half.
Oh, Shadow.
Listen, I know you are upset with him, but please. For his sake, do you think you could try and forgive him? If not for his sake, then mine? Please? With my work, having to watch over you three, and then some, I don't know how much longer I can last. Even work is becoming bothersome now with this new deal I'm trying to land. So please my dear, do it for me? For HIM? He needs you right now more than ever. So please, Maria, forgive him.
Maria sighs out deeply and nods.
For you, I will. I promise.
Thank you. Now rest up, I need to finish the last of my paperwork before I head out tomorrow.
Alright. But please try and get some rest soon.
I will. I was on the last of it when Jazz came to find me.
He leans over, Maria, and kisses her forehead smiling at her.
Goodnight my dear.
Night, Melmel.
He chuckles out and gets up to leave. He closes the door behind him. But as he turned around Jazz was floating right in front of him, taking him by surprise.
Well, hello again?
Cho, cha chao cho chao cho? Chao cha cho.
I see. Well, come along then, you can stay with me for now as I finish up my paperwork, but behave alright?
Cho cha!
Mephiles chuckles out, as they head back to his office. Once inside, he heads back to his desk and sits down turning on the desk lamp as Jazz flies over and sits on the corner of his desk as he works. As he sets about finishing his work, something from the shadows of his relaxing chair peeks over and narrows their eyes at jazz.
Beelzebub, don't you even dare.
Mephiles calls out, not looking up from the papers he was going over.
She is a guest, and I invited her to join me since she couldn't sleep right now. So you behave or I'll put you away.
The one named Beelzebub growls out as they narrow their eyes at Jazz.
Chaaaaooo….
Jazz looks over, sees Beelzebub, and tilts her head at them.
Chao?
Just ignore him, Jazz my dear. He is nothing but a big troublemaker.
Cho?
Mephiles glances up, and he could see Beelzebub now sitting on the back of the chair, still looking at Jazz with some slight loathing. Sighing out, and with a shake of his head, he points his pen at him.
Don't you start, Bee. You know full well you are not allowed on my desk for a time. As I said, Jazz is a guest, and unlike you, she BEHAVES, something you barely know how to do half the time.
CHAO! CHAO CHO CHA! CHAO CHO CHAO CHAO CHO CHA CHAO CHAO!
That isn't true, Bee, I do love you, and I'm not replacing you. But you can be a handful. Besides, Jazz belongs to someone who is in the hospital fighting for her life right now, and till she is well, Jazz will be staying with us. You hurt her, or be mean to her, or do anything rotten to her, and I, Shadow or Maria, or father hear about it, you know what will happen. I am getting tired of your antics, we all are, and if you keep it up, we're sending you back to the gardens and leaving you there. Remember, we're the fourth family that has taken you in. You have been doing so well, up till a little bit ago.
Now, Jazz is still a baby, and she is learning, so don't you DARE teach her any of your tricks. The girl who owns her, wishes her to be a well-behaved little Chao, not a mischief-maker like you. Remember you are a lot older than her, so you need to be good, and behave. If not, it's back to the gardens. Do you understand me, Beelzebub?
Beelzebub huffs out and folds his arms looking away in a grump, but nods.
Cha, chao.
Good. Now if you treat her well, and be nice to her, and behave the whole time she is here, I may think about lifting your ban from my desk early, and maybe do something special for you. But ONLY if you're good, understand?
Cha, chao.
That's my chao. Now come here, mister.
Mephiles chuckles out, setting his pen down as Beelzebub sighs out, and flies over to him, allowing himself to be cuddled and petted, and he soon softens up and starts purring. Jazz coos out and flies over to say hi to him.
CHO CHA!
Chaaaaooo….
Once again, he growls out narrowing his eyes at her, and Mephiles taps him between the eyes, making him look up at him.
Remember what I said. She is only trying to be nice.
Cha cha...
Good. Now, why don't you sit in my lap, why she sits on the desk, so I can finish my work, then we can go to bed. I'm just about done, and it shouldn't take but another hour if that.
Chao chao!
Cha…
He chuckles out as he sets back to work to finish with the papers. Forty-five minutes later, and he yawns with a sigh, finally finished for the night.
There, finished at last. Now to put them in my briefcase, and head to bed. What do you both say?
He looks over at Jazz, and Beelzebub and sees the both of them curled up together on the footrest next to the desk. He chuckles out softly, and gets up stretching out, and turns off his desk lamp. Picking both, Jazz, and Beelzebub up, he heads out and to his room. Once inside, he places Beelzebub in his bed and sets Jazz on the pillow next to his as he gets ready. Once done, he gets in, and Jazz yawns out crawling close to him and snuggling up to him. Beelzebub wakes up, yawning out, and flies over to get in on the action, till he snuggles up with Jazz, and they both fall asleep.
Goodnight you two.
He chuckles out as he lays down, and soon falls asleep.
Back at the hospital…
Reggie had just made it to the hospital and the floor where Eris was undergoing surgery once again. Just as he makes it to the waiting room when someone comes around a corner and he calls to them.
Excuse me! Hello, excuse me?
Hello, sir, how can I help you?
I'm looking for Dr. Robotnik, I was told he was in operating room two, where can I find it?
And who might you be?
I'm Reggie Lockwood, I was told Miss Monroe was undergoing another surgery to have a blood clot removed. A...ah...Connie Juliana was the one who got a hold of me.
Connie? Right, give me a moment sir.
The nurse leaves for a few moments then returns leading the way. They head to the lounging area where they end up meeting her.
Mr. Lockwood, you came?
But of course, I would, why wouldn't I?
I...Well, I tried to tell you, you could stay home and I would call you…
I wasn't going to stay home why Eris is undergoing another deadly surgery.
I see. Well, it will be some time till she is out of it, so please wait and we'll let you know.
Sighing out, and with nothing else to do, he goes to sit down and tries to call Knuckles once again.
Back up on the plane…
Calais knocks on the cockpit door, and enters it, with two cups of coffee. He hands one to Knuckles who barely looks at him as he takes, and sips from it, setting it down. He hits a couple of buttons and sighs out looking over everything. For a time they were quiet till Calais spoke.
So you know, you've missed a couple of calls.
Probably dad, or mom.
What if it's Reggie? I think you should check it out and see.
Sighing out, he nods.
Take over, I'm going to head to my room, and see.
Sure thing.
So with that, Knuckles leaves and heads to his room. On his way out, he sees Valery as she helps in the back. He softly growls out annoyed and narrows his eyes at her. He goes over to her when her back is turned and grabs her upper arm and turns her around making her gasp out as he pulls her close to him.
M-M-Mr. Echidna...Sir?!
I thought I told you, that you were to be RESTING, till we got to the Hotel.
I tried to warn her, Sir. But she wouldn't listen.
Jeremiah says as he walks past them. Knuckles glances his way as he does, and scoffs out, and pulls her with him, and down to the sleeping quarters. As they near her room, he opens the door to it and pushes her inside, making her stumble. She manages to catch herself, when he walks in and closes it, and locks it behind himself as she turns around.
M-M-Mr. Echidna...Sir?
She looks at him, slightly intimidated but him, and backs up a couple of steps.
I thought I ordered you to go to your room and rest up till we got to the hotel, Miss Squirrel?
I-I know, and I did. But…
But what?
He asks, annoyed.
I was be...becoming antsy just sitting around...and…
Before she knew it, he was on her, pushing her into the wall and holding her there, as he leaned close into her, pressing his body against her. She swallows hard, shaking a little as she looks up at him. Pressed up against her, she could nearly feel every aspect of him. From his toned body, the muscles under it, and more. But what took her off guard, was when she felt his hand travel its way up her leg, and slowly pushed her dress up.
Do you know what we do to those who refuse to LISTEN, Miss Squirrel?
She gulps, shaking her head at him. This only earns her a soft growl.
I ASKED you a question. Now answer it.
N-N-No...M-M-Mr. Echidna...sir…
He leans closer still into her, as his hands travel further up her dress. She whimpers out, as he gently thrusts his hips into her, and nuzzles the side of her neck, slowly licking at it.
Mr...Mr. Echidna...Sir…?
He growls out softly as he licks up her neck, and to her ear and whispers harshly into it.
Get. Undressed. Right now. Leave your stockings, shoes, bra, and underwear on. If you don't do as you're told, I'll rip them off you.
W-What are you...are you going to...do...Sir?
He chuckles out, as he grabs a hold on her waist from under her dress, and pulls her closer to him.
I'm going to punish you, like all men in my family do, when the Maids don't listen to what they're told to do.
He grabs a hold of her and throws her onto her bed. She cries out surprised, as he looms over her. She scoots up onto the bed, scared, as he starts taking off his clothing.
Before you even ask, you should have read the fine print, Miss Squirrel. You're now working for the House of Wynmacher, and as the next head of the House, it's my job to make sure you all listen.
He tells her as he throws off his tie and shirt.
We, males, have been known to put the unruly ones in their place, more than a few times.
B-B-But sir.. you're engaged!
She tries to back up more but finds she is cornered. She wraps her tail around her, as Knuckles kicks his shoes off, and walks over to her, and grabs her by her feet. She tries to struggle, but he holds her fast, and gets on top of her, straddling her, and holds her arms above her head with one hand.
That isn't your place to say, Miss Squirrel. Besides, Eris already knows. So long as she doesn't know about it. We have a special understanding of one another, and she knows my family's ways, and though she doesn't wish to share me, she is not one to break our family's traditions.
He leans down over her and starts kissing the side of her neck, as he reaches under her dress once more, brushing her inner thigh through her stockings, and slowly goes for her pussy. She lets out a sharp soft gasp at his touch and tries once more to get away from him.
Try as you may, Miss Squirrel, but there is no way you can get away from me. Not to say even if you told the rest of the staff, they wouldn't help you, and there is the fact we're twenty thousand feet or so in the air. The rest of the staff know their place within my family, and now you're going to learn as well, and since you don't like to listen, then I get to have my fun with you.
Knuckles reach between her legs as she closes them up, but this does nothing. She gaps out, as she whimpers, and he chuckles out softly, getting a small surprise.
So, you're one of THEM girls, hmm?
Wha?! No...I'm not.
Oh really? Then how come you don't have any panties on, huh?
P-Please...Sir…Stop…
I asked you a question, Valery.
Stop...please…
Sorry, no can do. If I let you off the hook, what would the others think? Besides, your body is asking me to keep going. Don't you feel it? The burning flame rising in you?
P-Please...s-stop…
He rubs her lips more as she struggles, licking and nibbling at the side of her neck. The whole time he is doing this, he becomes hard.
So you know this is your own fault. Had you done what you were told, then we wouldn't be here, now would we?
Knuckles growls in her ear, and he forces one of his legs between hers, to spread them open so he could reach her lips even more. As he rubs them she starts to become wet. He keeps at it, till his nail pushes through her stocking, and rips it, allowing him more access to her womanhood. When she feels him, she lets out a loud gasp and once more tries to get away.
Struggle all you like, but it's no use. You're mine now.
He inserts two fingers into her, only to stop part way as his eyes light up, and a smile crosses his face.
Well, well, well. What do we have here? You're a virgin?
Tears form in Valery's eyes as Knuckles looks at her.
P-P-Please...stop...I…I'm...saving myself…
Not anymore you're not. But don't worry, you're going to enjoy what I have in store for you. You move after I get up off you, and I'll make it ten times worse. Understand me?
Valery nods at him, and he gets up off her. He unbuckles his belt, and unzips his pants, and lets them fall to the floor. She gaps out seeing the bulge in his boxers.
P-P-Please…I-I don't…I...never...been...with a man...before...
Then we're going to have to change that, aren't we? Now, this is the last time I'm going to ask you, get undressed, or I'll rip everything off you. And mind you, the stockings are the cheapest item you own to this uniform. So I don't want to have a new one made for you. They're expensive.
Seeing as she had little to no choice, she does as she is told.
Good, now lay down on the bed, it's time to show you what the House of Wynmacher is about to those who don't listen.
J-J-Just please...be gentle?
Sorry, but no can do. Had you listened to me to start with, this could have been different.
He removes his boxer and his cock comes out. It was nine inches long, and four inches around, and already hard. He gets back onto the bed, and crawls over her, and forces her legs apart once again, making sure to keep one of his knees between them. He reaches down and starts rubbing her again, getting her wet once more. She tries to hold a moan back, and wiggles, making him chuckle out. Once he felt she was ready, he grabs a hold of his cock, and rubs it.
When's your time of the month, Valery?
I-I'm sorry?
I asked you, when is it your time.
N-now...Sir…
Perfect.
Mr. Knuckles? Sir?
He chuckles out, and leans over her, lining his cock to her womanhood. He rubs against her for a moment, letting her know he was right there, and she looks away, biting down on a finger.
S-Sir….I...I…
You, what?
I don't...care for men….sir...not like this….
And like I said, we're going to change that.
Without warning, he forces his way into her hard, and past her hymen, and up to his balls. She cries out as it is broken, as blood trickles out of her and down her lips. He holds himself there for only a short moment and starts thrusting, not giving her a chance to get used to him. She cries as he thrust in and out of her, as she begs him to stop.
S-Sir please!...It...It HURTS...PLEASE STOP!
Then you should have...Oh, CHAOS… you're extremely tight... thought of that beforehand… now shouldn't you?
Two and half hours later…
Knuckles thrust hard into her pussy one last time, wrapping his arms around her midsection, like a bitch in heat, and holds her in place. He cums into her one last time with a grunt. He pants hard as he thrust a couple more times into her, as she lays there covered in his hot thick seed. Some of it was seeping out of her, from both her tail hole and her womanhood. After making sure he was done, he pulls out of her, making her moan out. She falls over onto her side and curls up, wrapping her tail around her. Sometime during the third round, she had gotten used to him, and couldn't get enough, begging for more. He falls over next to her, and she tries to snuggle up to him, but he shoves her away.
P-Please, Sir? Just for a little bit?
Stay the fuck off me, bitch.
B-but, Sir?!
Listen, I don't give a fuck about your wants and needs right now. I only did what I had to.
Can...we...Can we do it again?
Knuckles looks over at her, scoffing, as he shakes his head in discuss. This was one thing he hated about some of the girls they brought on. If they were still a virgin, and in season, they wanted more after he, or Wyn, or one of the other males of the House of Wynmacher, broke them in. They always wanted more, and they always wanted to cuddle. Thankfully he wasn't like that. It was one thing when they took off from the airport, or in some other situation, but not after sex. Never after sex.
He stands up and puts his boxers, and pants on. She grabs a hold of his hand and tries to pull him back, but he all but backhands her, not hard enough to hurt her, or make her cry, but enough to get his point across that he didn't want her hanging on him, or to cuddle. After zipping them up, he grabs his shirt, socks, and shoes and heads for the door, stopping to look over his shoulder.
Next time you don't do as you are told, or it'll be worse for you. Because I won't be the one punishing you next time.
He opens the door, and just as he was about to call for Jeremiah, he sees he's right next to the door.
Get her and this mess cleaned up now. And make sure you go over the rules and everything with her again.
If I may sir?
What?
If she hasn't told you yet, she only started yesterday. As you know, when we take on someone new, we tend to train them in the ways of Wynmacher House, the rules and more for a month, and explain to them, our ways, and what would happen should they not follow the rules, and give them a chance to decide if they wish to stay or go. But since she has yet to go through all of that, and to better familiarize herself with the rules, and whatnot. She had no clue or time to figure things out.
Knuckles looks at him surprised, remembering that she had indeed told him she only started yesterday. But with Eris on his mind, among other things, he forgot.
Shit.
Indeed. But now that you have done that to her, she may not want to leave should the chance come up. Remember last time? We had to send that one girl to Dimitri House, and let Moritori Rex deal with her. Though from my understanding, he married the girl and they now have a family.
I'm OK with that. I didn't care much for men till now, but I may rethink things, hehe.
Valery giggles out, making Knuckles shake his head, and roll his eyes.
Just get this fucking place cleaned up, along with her, and make sure you give her something too. The only kid I want with ANYONE is Eris.
Right away sir. Also, your phone has been going off and right to Voice messaging, it's Reggie.
He hands his phone to him, and he looks at the caller ID and sees he had missed at least five calls from him.
Also, call Wyn, and let him know to send HIM our way. From here on out he can deal with all of you. Though lucky for me, I don't have to worry about you, you are just flat-out annoying, and have been since I was a kid.
Jeremiah chuckles out, as does Knuckles.
That may be, Sir. But I know you still love me and see me as a sort of older brother, and best friend, then a butler.
Really? Since when?
They look at one another, till they let out a laugh. Jeremiah was only twenty-seven, and Knuckles did indeed see him as a sort of older brother figure, and best friend. As they have their moment, Knuckle's phone goes off.
You best go see what is up with…
Right. OH, and tell dad to send Savage, I want him here with me as my bodyguard.
But of cores, Master Knuckles. Once I have dealt with her and cleaned everything up, I will call your father and let him know.
right.
The phone rings for the fifth time, and Knuckles answers it.
Hey, Reggie, I'm sorry…
IT'S ABOUT TIME, KNUCKLES! I HAVE BEEN TRYING FOR NEARLY TWO AND A HALF HOURS TO CALL YOU! ERIS WEN INTO CARDIAC ARREST!
WHAT!? IS SHE ALRIGHT!? IS SHE STILL ALIVE!? WHAT HAPPENED?! WHAT'S GOING ON!?
I am not sure, all I know is that she went into cardiac arrest due to a blood clot. We almost lost her!
WHAT!?
They have yet to...Hold on I think I see Doctor Robotnik now.
There was some talking on the other side, and then Reggie's Voice.
Knuckles I'm going to put you on speaker now.
Go for it, I'm in my room.
Back at the hospital…
He's on speaker now.
Yes, Hello, Mr. Echidna?
Please, Knuckles.
Very well. My name is Gerald Robotnik. I'm the doctor taking care of Miss Monroe. It is to my understanding that you are engaged to her?
Yes, that's right. Is that a problem?
No, no it's not. I just wanted to make sure to have you down as family so you may be allowed into the ICU.
Very well. But about Eris? Is she alright? What happened? How did she end up in cardiac arrest? Is she still alive? Reggie said…
Easy now, Mr. Echidna. Eris is just fine. I just came out of surgery, and I can honestly say she is and will be doing just fine. We are giving her five hundred milligrams of heparin now. It should prevent any more blood clots. From here on out, I and my staff will be watching her around the clock. We won't let her go without a fight, I promise you.
Oh, Bella.
Sighing could be heard, as he sits down on his bed on the other end.
Tell me, Doctor. Is there anything I can do? I'm nearly there now and should be in a few hours. But please tell me she will be alright?
I promise you she will. But I do need to be blunt, if I may?
Yes?
Even though the heparin should work, there is still a possibility she may end up with another heart attack. We nearly lost her this time. There may not be a next time should this happen again... I only want to be ready should something happen. But if you are her Fiance as you say you are, then I should run this by you as well.
What is it?
Should she not make it…
YOU JUST SAID SHE WOULD! SO MAKE UP YOUR MIND!
I know, but we HAVE to be ready just in case. Should she not make it, I need to know…
ENOUGH! I DON'T WANT TO HEAR IT! NOT NOW! NOT LATER! NOT EVER! SHE WILL FUCKING MAKE IT! SHE SURVIVED A CAR CRASH! SHE SURVIVED PEOPLE BULLYING HER FOR SIX FUCKING YEARS! SHE HAS SURVIVED IT ALL! AND I WILL NOT, REPEAT! WILL NOT HEAR OF IT! SO KEEP YOUR FUCKING WORDS AND SUCH TO YOURSELF, DOCTOR! BECAUSE SHE WILL MAKE IT! I KNOW SHE WILL! OUR BOND WON'T ALLOW US TO PART SO EASILY!
Y-Y-Yes...but Mr. Echidna...S-Sir…
I SAID I DON'T WANT TO HEAR IT! NOW PUT REGGIE BACK ON!
Doctor Robotnik looks at Reggie, who was just as lost for words. Sighing out, he nods to Reggie, who takes the phone off speaker, and talks with him in private.
I'm here, Knuckles.
Listen, I should be there soon, the skies are still good, and the storm has yet to hit. I'm going to let Calais know to speed it up. But that doctor is wrong about her. He doesn't know Eris as I do. She will make it. I can feel it, Reggie. I can!
Yes. I know Knuckles. He only wanted to be ready was all. But I'll explain things to him if you like?
Would you please? Tell that quack pot he knows nothing about her, or how strong she is. Let him know she will not go down without a fight.
I will. I promise. But please hurry, Knuckles. I'm going to stay here with her till you get here.
Alright, then I'll catch a taxi or something, and send the others to the hotel till then.
Very well. Till later then.
Yeah.
There was a clicking sound, as the dial tone was heard. Sighing out, Reggie hangs up and puts his phone away, nodding to the Doctor.
Please forgive him, Dr. Robotnik. It's just they have been through so much in a long time and they're close. So the thought of losing her...It scares him. I guess you could say they were both kinds of lost till they found one another.
I know the feeling well. We lost Jenny when my sweet Maria was only two. But the way he acted out, I am going to assume that they're bonded?
Yes, they are.
I see. Well then, how about I take you back to her room for now? And will worry about everything else if and WHEN the time comes. I did promise I wouldn't let her go without a fight, and I intend to keep that promise.
Thank you.
But of course.
With that said, he takes him back to see Eris. As they enter her room, they see a couple of nurses finishing with her. They see the Doctor, and Reggie walking in and they take their leave.
Go right on it, and stay for as long as you like.
Thank you.
Doctor Robotnik smiles and nods, and leaves, letting Reggie have his time with Eris. Sighing out, he goes over to sit next to her and takes hold of her hand.
Oh, Bella, my sweet. You gave me quite the scare you know? But at least the good doctor was here to help you in time. Just thinking about what could have happened, fills me with dread. I managed to get a hold of Knuckles and told him as well, and he's worried about you as well. So you have to hold on till he gets here, please.
Reggie holds her hand and scoots closer sighing out.
Within Eris' head…
Isn't she beautiful, Maxwell? Our beautiful baby girl.
She is wonderful. She looks just like you.
Indeed. But she gets your hair color. Oh, Max, I'm so happy. We finally have a family to call our own.
Indeed, I couldn't be more proud than I am right now. She is going to be so beautiful when she grows up.
Indeed.
What will we name her?
How about Belladonna, after your mother?
I like that, Layla. But I was thinking, Eris, like the goddess of time. Since this is the most special time for us right now.
Hmm…
If I may?
Reggie?
Why not both?
Both?
Yes. Belladonna "Eris" Monroe. I think it has a very nice ring to it.
That is a SPLENDID idea, old friend. I love it.
As do I. What about you? Our little Belladonna "Eris" Monroe?
Baby Eris coos out, and reaches for her mother's finger, and suckles on it, making everyone in the room laugh.
I think she likes it.
Hehe, as do I my love.
The image plays out in Eris' head, as it flashes and moves to a new one.
Mama, mama, yay!
A one-year-old Eris calls out from her crib, at seeing her mother walking into her room smiling brightly at her.
Hello, my little Bell. How are you this morning?
Mama, mama!
Layla giggles out as she goes to open the curtains up, and let the morning sunlight in. She walks over and picks baby Eris up and starts changing her, and getting her ready for the day.
Dada?
Eris looks over to the door seeing her father walking in, smiling brightly.
Hello my loves, how are both of you?
Hello Maxwell. We are both fine.
Dada!
Maxwell chuckles out as he picks up Eris and holds her, giving her kisses. Once again the image flashes and now shows a six-year-old Eris.
BUT I DON'T WANT TO MOVE! I DON'T WANT TO LEAVE ALL MY FRIENDS! PLEASE, WHY CAN'T WE JUST STAY HERE! MOMMY!?
I'm sorry my sweet one, but we have to because of your father's job. I know it's hard leaving all your friends behind, but your father wishes us to move with him, he'll be gone a long time, not to say you'll end up missing him too.
But it's not fair. I'll end up missing Peppers' birthday!
I know sweetie. But it can't be helped. What if we find something super special for her, and give it to her just before we leave?
But...my friends…
Eris runs over to her mother crying, as Layla tries to shush her ailing daughter. Again, the image changes, showing a nine-year-old Eris being backed into a corner.
JUST LEAVE ME ALONE! WHAT DO YOU JERKS WANT WITH ME?!
Oh, I think you know?
NO, I DON'T! JUST GO AWAY AND LEAVE ME ALONE, I HAVEN'T DONE ANYTHING TO YOU!
One of the older boys that had her backed in, moves closer to her, as he takes a strand of her hair and sniffs it. Eris shoves him away discussed growling out. He only chuckles, as he lifts his hand and snaps his fingers.
Grab her, and take her clothes off her. Doing a beauty of a vixen of her special qualities is going to be fun. Especially at this age.
The older boy's friends grab a hold of her, as they start ripping her clothing off. She screams out and fights back as best as she can, but the one boy smacks her.
THAT IS ENOUGH OUT OF YOU GIRLY!
LET ME GO! SOMEONE! ANYONE, HELP ME PLEASE!
Stop your yelling, cunt, there is no…
Before he could finish what he was about to say, someone decks him in the side of the head and sends him flying into the walls where he slides down and to the ground.
Alright punks, I think the girl asked you all to let her go. I think it's best you do that right now unless you want to end up like your friend there?
Oh shit, it's THE RED MUTT!
SCREW THIS I'M OUT OF HERE!
SAME! EVEN AT THIS AGE, HE IS NOT TO BE FUCKED WITH!
LET'S GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE!
The other kids run off scared as their boss comes out of it and sees them running off.
HEY, GET BACK HERE! WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU MORONS ARE GOING!?
FUCK YOU! WE'RE NOT STAYING AROUND WITH HIM HERE!
HIM? HIM WHO!?
ME THAT'S WHO!
Oh, shit.
The guy looks behind him gulping out as he chuckles nervously.
K-K-Knuckles...hey...buddy….Long time no see.
Give me your shirt now, so the girl can wear it.
Ah…y-yeah… yeah...sure...here, take it!
He takes off the shirt he was wearing and hands it over.
Good, now get the fuck out of here before I break you in two.
Right.
The guy gets up and he runs away. Sighing out, Knuckle scoffs, as he holds the shirt behind him not looking at Eris.
Here. Put this on. It'll hide you. Once you're done will go see the nurse.
At first, she was unsure of him, but seeing that he wasn't going to try anything, she took it and put it on, letting him know it was OK to look. He turns around and gaps out, as he goes over to her. She steps back, a bit frightened of him, till she hits the wall once more. He sees how scared she was, and gently talks to her…
It's alright. I won't hurt you. I promise.
He reaches out and gently touches the spot the older kid had hit her, making her flinch out from the gentle touch.
He really did a number on you. Are you alright…?
Before he could finish what he was saying, she threw herself at him crying into his chest. Taken back, he sighs out, wrapping his arms around him, as he holds her. Gently stroking her head. The image again flashes and it now shows an eleven-year-old Eris.
Daddy, there HAS to be something we can do to help her?
I wish there was, and the doctors have been trying. But this new form of N.I.D.S is nothing they've seen.
But...daddy…
I know my little Bonbon. I know. I'm scared as well.
Eris looks at her mother who was resting in a hospital bed, and she goes over to her, laying her head down, crying. This new attack had done a number on Layla, and she had to be rushed to the hospital.
Mommy, please get well.
Maxwell walks over to her and rubs her back. She looks up at her father and hugs him crying. Again the image changes, showing a thirteen-year-old Eris.
How. Long?
Eris, sweetie…
I ASKED HOW LONG! HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING THIS BEHIND DADDY'S BACK!? BEHIND MY BACK!
Layla and Reggie didn't know what to do or say. So Reggie tells her.
For a long time now, since before you were born. But you have to understand, Bella. I have loved your mother for a long time, long before she met your father. But I lost my chance in telling her, and they got married before too long. He soon found out the truth, and the only way to make sure that I and Regina could stay on as your godparents, was if you never knew about it ever, and we had to leave for a time. But as fate would have it, we started to see one another in secret again.
All this time?! All this time and you never told me? Does Gigi know?
Yes, she knows, she was the one who first found out about us. When you were still a baby. She was mad at first, only because she didn't get to join in the first time. But after she was alright with it all.
We couldn't baby girl. More than anything I wanted to, but your father didn't want you to find out ever. When he found out it took a long time for him to trust any one of us again.
Does this have anything to do with the fact of him seeing that collie dog?
What?!
Eris looks at them, realizing they didn't know.
You...don't know?
Know what?
Sighing out she tells them.
The last few times daddy has come home from work late, I would always greet him, and I could smell another woman on him. A collie dog. And the other day I saw him walking into some motel with her. But I didn't see him come right out. At the time I didn't think anything about it, thinking it was work-related. But now...now I don't know?
Eris was confused. Unsure of what to do. Both her parents were cheating on one another, and she didn't know who to believe, but something told her that her mother was happy with Regina and Reggie.
Do you truly love mom, Reggie?
I do. I regret never telling her how I felt all those years ago.
Mom?
He is my best friend and has been there for me more than Max has in a LONG time. You know this, I do, Regina and Reggie both know it. Being with them feels…RIGHT to me, baby girl, and I love them both.
Bella, my sweet one, you must understand, if your father finds out about this. Then he will make sure we can not only be together, but you will lose us as your godparents. And I know how much you love both me and Gigi.
I do. I do love you both. I've come to think of you as my second parents over the years. But…
But?
I am still unsure about this. This is risky on what you're doing.
We know. but it's a risk we're willing to take, baby girl.
Sighing out, she looks at both of them.
You truly do love mom, don't you? And you love Reggie?
I do, yes.
As do I, Bella, my dear.
Then I guess I have no choice.
Choice honey?
This feels wrong to me, and I hate I've been lied to for so long, but I guess I understand too. So long as you're happy mom, Reggie, then I'm OK with it. I give my blessing to both of you.
Oh, Eris.
Bella, thank you.
They both pull her into a hug and she smiles brightly.
I love you both.
We love you too, Bella dear.
I do have one question?
Yes, honey?
What can I do to help?
They both laugh out, as the image changes once more showing Eris about a year ago, who was fifteen now.
Mom, this is wonderful news. I can't believe that I'm going to have two new siblings soon, and BOTH boys. I'm so happy for you both.
We're just as happy as you are. But I'm also worried.
Mom?
My beloved?
When Maxwell finds out it's not his, I fear what he will do.
Daddy wouldn't do anything bad...right?
I do not know, my sweet one. But it's something I do not wish to risk. I think it's time Eris.
Mom...NO...you don't mean that?!
I do. I know you love your father, despite him seeing another woman right now, but think what is best for us. For all we know, this new woman won't even want you around, should he leave me. What will happen if she does something?
I guess you're right. But still. Daddy wouldn't harm an innocent baby, would he?
No, he wouldn't. But it worries me he could try to take everything that once belonged to my grandfather from me. Even though I am now head of my grandfather's family, Maxwell did marry into it, and he owns half of everything. Meaning if things go south, we could lose everything in the end.
Then what are we going to do?
I've been talking things over with Regina, and we decided should things go south, we will let you both live with us. Not to say, thanks to my smarts, we have already started to secretly set most everything in your mother's name, and sign me and Regina on as co-owners. So if things go south, you and your new little brother will be set, along with us. Also, we have started getting things ready for the three of you to come live with us. You'll have your own room and everything.
Eris sighs out, as she sits down next to her mother.
Eris, what's wrong?
What about Knuckles? I'll have to leave him behind. I promised him I wouldn't leave him again, and if this does go south, then I would be doing just that.
Drat, I kind of space that. Especially on what I did to make sure you both got back together.
Well, I'm sure he can come to visit whenever he likes. Maybe we can talk to Wynmacher, and Lara-Le, and see if he can come live with us, and attend school. That way he will be close.
Do you think so?
That is a wonderful idea. Yes.
I'd like that. But?
But?
You sure, Gigi knows my taste in things? I mean don't get me wrong, she has amazing taste herself. But you know I can be picky.
Both Layla and Reggie laugh out.
Don't worry, with what she is doing to it, you'll never want to leave. Even for school.
I hope so. But what about, Knuckles?
Don't worry, I will get things ready for him should it come to it.
The image changes again, this time showing six months before the accident. Both Layla and Eris were in the car driving from the tournament at her school. They had won the game, but her mom wanted to leave right away due to an incoming storm. They had to take the back roads, which were longer, and closer to where the storm was coming in from. By the time night had fully set in, the storm hit and Eris started to become worried.
Mom, I don't like this. This feels wrong.
We'll be fine. I promise.
Mom, PLEASE. Reggie is right. We should have waited out the storm. You're six months along, and the back roads are known to be near-deadly during a storm and at night.
Please, baby girl. We'll be fine.
I hope so.
Eris sighs out, knowing full well how her mother could be. With little choice, she prays for them to get home soon. But as they drive, the storm hits hard and fast and pours down to the point it was hard seeing anything. It made the roads slick as black ice, and it was hard seeing in front of them, even with the high beams on.
Mom…
I know honey. But we're fine. I promise.
Mom, please. I'm begging you. Let's find a turn-off and a hotel for the night. I'm scared. We shouldn't be out here right now!
It'll be fine, we've taken the back roads before.
NOT DURING A STORM LIKE THIS! THIS IS SUICIDE RIGHT NOW!
Eris, please. Keep your voice down.
Eris was beyond terrified right now. Worried for both their safety and her soon-to-be-born brother's safety. She meant what she just said. Driving on the back roads during this storm was suicide. So once again, she tries to make her mother see reason.
Mom, I am BEGGING you. PLEASE. There is a turn-off point, coming off. Let's take it, and find someplace safe for the night. Think about the baby. ME. I know you want to make it home to Reggie since we're leaving tonight. But we can always try tomorrow. When it's safe. Besides, there is no way they're going to let the planes leave tonight. Not with this storm, and Reggie will be there waiting for us. So, please. Can we take the turn off, and find someplace safe.
Layla could hear the fear in her daughter's voice. She could hear it cracking, at how terrified she was right now. Sighing out, and looking at her she nods.
Alright. Alright. You're right. This is suicide right now, and there is no way we're going to make it home. Will find…
Before she could finish, the sound of a horn sounded off and brought her attention to the road. A bright light shines in their face, as Eris thinks quickly, and out of reaction, and grabs the wheel trying to steer them out of the way of the oncoming truck. The truck does the same thing but due to the road, both verticals end up swerving into one another and crashing.
Everything was quiet for a long time, till Eris soon came out of it.
Oh...ow...what...happened?
Eris slowly comes out of it, holding her head and shaking it. She winces out when she realizes that she felt something wet on her face. Touching where it was, she looks at it in the light shining in the window and sees it was blood.
What...the?!
Trying to remember what happened, she realizes that she was upside down. She starts to panic a little, as she tries to remove her seat belt. She struggles with it till she finally frees herself. She hits the roof of the car and moans out, as she rights herself. When she looks up to help her mom she realizes she wasn't there and that her seat belt was ripped.
Mom?! MOM, WHERE ARE YOU?!
Eris crawls out of the busted windshield and over broken glass. She winces in pain as it cuts into her palm. But she makes it out. She holds her left arm as she shields her eyes when she realizes that there was another vehicle close by, and shining their lights on her, blinding her.
H-HELLO? I-IS ANYONE THERE?! MOM! MOM ARE YOU AROUND HERE?
Eris yells out as she slowly makes her way to it. Rain pours down, drenching her in no time. She limps and cries out as she falls to the ground once more. She looks over and sees that her leg didn't look right. But she ignores it and gets back up calling out once more.
HELLO? IS ANYONE THERE? HAVE YOU SEEN MY MOTHER?!
Again, nothing. But as she gets closer to the other vehicle she realizes that it was a semi-truck. Gasping out, and seeing it turned over on it's side. She limps over to it as fast as she can.
HELLO?! CAN YOU HEAR ME?!
She calls out, as she looks at the semi-truck. To her, it looked like some kind of delivery truck. All around her she could see boxes all over her, getting wet from the rain. Some had the contents scattered around, as she picks up a small package and looks it over.
Huh? Chaos Drive INC? Daddies, old company?
As she looked around, she could see multi-colored tubes here and there. Some were lit up, others were broken and dark. She tosses the package down and looks around her. This time more awake and aware of everything going on around her. She gaps out when she sees her mother's car turned over and on fire. The wind blows it her way and she coughs. She looks behind her and sees that the engine of the semi-truck was smoking. But in the back, it looked like a small fire had been going till the rain put it out. Thinking fast, and ignoring the pain throughout her, she heads right for the semi-truck first to check on the driver.
As she nears it, she looks around to see if she could find footholds. Knowing it was going to be painful, she had to make sure everyone was alright. That was her top priority right now. Seeing some, she slowly makes her way up and tries to open the driver's side door. It finally opens and she looks inside, coughing as smoke comes out. She covers her eyes, and once it was a little safer she sees the driver and gaps out.
SIR! HEY MISTER! COME ON, WAKE UP! PLEASE WAKE UP!
She shakes him trying to get him to come too. She tries to hit his face hard enough to snap him out of it, and he flutters his eyes open.
Wha? What is going on? What happened?
Hey mister, are you alright?
What? W-who is that?
Mister, come on, snap out of it. I need your help, please. I can't find my mom.
What? You're...mother?
Eris sighs out, knowing she couldn't lose her temper right now. So she shakes him again when she sees him starting to fall back asleep.
Don't you dare pass back out! You do and we could all end up dying! NOW WAKE UP!
Eris slaps him hard across the face, and this seems to finally make him realize what was going on. He starts to panic when she calms him down and tells him what happened. Once he realizes this, he starts trying to get free. As he was doing that, Eris climbs back down and starts looking for her mother.
MOM! MOM WHERE ARE YOU?! ARE YOU OUT THERE? MOM, PLEASE ANSWER ME! I'M BEGGING YOU!
Eris yells out again and again, as she slowly makes her way to the back. Smoke filled her sight, as she coughed.
MOM! MOM WHERE ARE YOU?!
She calls again. This time over the pouring rain and thunder, she hears something. She moves to it and through the smoke, and she gaps out seeing her mother.
MOM, MOM! OH CHAOS NO! MOM, MOM PLEASE BE ALRIGHT!?
She hurries over to her mother's side. She gets on the ground, to check her over, and sees she is bleeding out. She had a bad concoction on her head. She had a nasty-looking cut on her right cheek, and her left arm looked broken. But the worst of it was that she was trapped under the truck itself, and looked like it had crushed her.
MOM...NO NO NO NO NO NO...MOM...COME ON MOM, WAKE UP! PLEASE WAKE UP! YOU HAVE TO BE ALRIGHT! I'M BEGGING YOU!
Eris looks around trying to find something, ANYTHING to help her mother. She stands up and pushes on the truck, trying to get it off her mother. But it does no good.
HELP! SOMEONE HELP ME PLEASE! IT'S KILLING HER! PLEASE HELP ME!
Eris cries out as she keeps trying. The driver from before hears her and comes over and finds her trying to push the truck off her. When Eris sees him, she calls out to him.
PLEASE! I'M BEGGING YOU! HELP ME! SHE'S PREGNANT! I NEED TO SAVE HER, AND MY BABY BROTHER! PLEASE!
Snapping out of it, the guy runs over to try and help her. But even with both of them, they couldn't move it. Seeing how it was useless, she falls to the ground and next to her mother, who soon wakes up.
M-mom?
E-Eris? Eris my dear….is that you?
Y-yeah. I-its me.
Honey, don't...be scared...but… I can't feel my legs.
Eris looks around and sees the driver trying once again to get the trailer off her.
PLEASE, MISTER! HURRY!
I-I-I'M TRYING TO, BUT IT'S TOO HEAVY! I'M SORRY!
PLEASE, TRY HARDER!
The guy keeps trying but soon gives up. He looks at Eris, shaking his head sadly. Eris breaks down crying, as her mother reaches for her. She takes hold of her hand and moves closer to her.
Honey...it'll be alright. I promise it will. Help is on it's way, I'm sure of it. And...and we'll go…live with Reggie, and Gigi...like we...planned.
Layla starts to cough. Blood comes up and spills over the sides of her mouth, as Eris starts to panic.
PLEASE! HELP HER NOW! SHE'S DYING! YOU HAVE TO DO SOMETHING!?
I'm sorry. There is nothing I can do miss. But help is on its way, I promise.
Eris...sweetie...it's alright…
No no no no no no...mommy please stay with us. Stay with me. I need you. Please. I'm begging you!
Honey, where….are you?
NO!? I-I'm here...right here mom. See… right here
Eris moves her mother's hand to her chest to show her she was right next to her. Layla smiles weakly and looks at her.
Oh, Eris...there you...are...Honey...what do you think….of the name...Reggie...Junior…?
I-its a chaos horrid name…
Y-your right...it...it is a horrid name…
Layla and Eris both laugh. But this causes Layla to cough up more blood. Eris becomes worried, as the driver comes back with a survival kit, and starts lighting flares around them. He comes over with a space blanket and covers Layla up.
I-I'm sorry. This is all I can do. Please...forgive me, miss?
Eris looks up at him and smiles. Tears fall blending into the rain.
T-thank you.
R-Raiden...what do...you think...of...Raiden?
Eris chokes on a giggle and nods.
I-I love it...it… it's perfect… it's absolutely perfect….he will be just as...as strong...as the god...of thunder...I promise...both...you and him...will make it….
Yes...we will make it...but…
No buts mom….you'll see… they're coming...I know it….
Layla smiles weakly as Eris moves closer to her mother, and lifts her so she could let her rest in her lap. Layla smiles and sighs out, and closes her eyes for a moment.
Mom? Mom no...don't you close your eyes on me now...not now… I can hear them...they'll be here soon.
Oh, my little bonbon… you have grown into such a wonderful woman. Be strong for me alright?
I-I will. I always...always am.
I know you are...but look...can you see them….calling out to me?
Eris looked up and she could see the clouds parting, and the stars starting to shine through.
They are...so beautiful...aren't...they…
Y-yeah...they are…
W-When our... time comes...that...is where...we go...it is where...I and Raiden….will….be…
WHAT!? NO! NO MOM DON'T SAY THAT! YOU'RE BOTH GOING TO MAKE IT! YOU'RE BOTH GOING TO MAKE IT I KNOW IT!
Baby girl...we know that isn't true…
B-But...but mommy…
Layla smiles up at her daughter as she reaches for her weakly. Eris takes hold of her hand as she sobs.
Moonlight… and...S-star shine...Summertime...Lullabies…
Mommy...nooooo… please no…
Lights flash, as a siren goes off behind them. Skidding could be heard, as car doors open and slam shut. Voices could be heard, shouting out orders, as they rushed over to help Eris and her mother. But the driver stops them, shaking his head, as tears fall down his muzzle, letting them know to give them time to say goodbye.
Winter wishes...and...Springtime...memories...that fly away...on butterfly...wings…
Mama...please...no…
Lay your...head down...on a bed of clouds...and close your...eyes...as you make a wish...to the cosmos...up high…
Mam don't...please don't…
Close your eyes, and make a wish….and know...that...no matter...how...far...apart...we...are…
Mom...stop...stop right now...if you finish...I-I'll never...oh CHAOS….mommy, please…
We will...always...be together…
Eris sobs as she finishes with her…
We will...always… be together…
Connected...by the heart…
Connected...by the heart…
Forever…
For all...of...eternity…I...love you...my little...Bon...b...o...n…
Layla's hand falls from Eris' grasp and to the ground. Eris' eyes widen in shock and she shakes her.
MOM?! MOM NO! MOMMY NO! NO NO NO! YOU CAN'T DO THIS! YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME! YOU PROMISED WE WOULD BE TOGETHER! MOM, MOM PLEASE! MOM, YOU CAN'T LEAVE ME! MOM! MOMMY! MOMMY NOOOOOOOOOO! MOOOOOOOOOOM!
Everyone was quiet as they watched on. Giving Eris some time. But soon they had to pull her away from her mother's body, and help her, and the driver. But Eris refused to let go of her mother's body. She fought them, as she tried to stay with her. It ended up taking nearly every Firefighter that came with, Several police officers, and a couple of EMTs to hold her back as they took her mother's body away. She fought every one of them. Tooth and claw. It was like she was a rabid animal. It wasn't till another EMT finally got a needle into her, did she finally start to calm down and pass out from the sedative given to her.
Her whole life story played out before her. All the good, and the bad. But mostly the bad. Over and over again it played out. Like an old broken record player. Her self conscious wished it would just let her rest in peace. But it wouldn't give that chance to her. It wanted her to live. To survive. To begin anew. But all she wanted was to sleep and never wake up. She just wanted to fade away, and never come back. As she tried to rest, she heard a voice…
Knuckles is on his way here...you've worried the both of us. So, please. Stay strong for us. We need you, Bella. Without you next to me, I fear I may end up lost once more. You're all I have left of your mother...please...don't abandon me…
It was Reggie...she remembers now...it was because of him that all this happened...but she loved him...he was always there for her and her mother...but if he hadn't came back...then none of this would have happened. Right? Maybe it still would? But the way she saw it...it all started with him...no...no she couldn't let her self-conscious think that...he was all she had now...he was the only thing left...him and Knuckles...but…
But had he never started having an affair with mom, then she would still be here. Things would be different. We know they would have. This is his fault. You know it. I know it. It's because of him, she is gone. It is because of him, we lost everything. We have no one now.
That isn't true. We have Knuckles. Knuckles has always been next to us.
That may be true. But who's to say he would leave us as he left us last time.
That wasn't his fault. That was of our own doing, and we regretted it ever since.
That may be, but when he sees us, who's to say he won't leave us?
He...he wouldn't do that to us. We made a promise to one another to never let that happen again.
Like how he promised to never "PUNISH" another of those maids of his? How do we know he hasn't done so already? Reggie did say he was on his way here. And didn't he say that Wynmacher was looking into new help? What if he brought them along? What if he ended up fucking them?
Even if he did, he wouldn't leave us for the hired help. He is too loyal to us. He loves us. We know his family's ways. We understand even if we hate having to share him. We told him it was fine, so long as we didn't know about it.
That may be, but what if he ended up getting them PREGNANT? What then?
No...He wouldn't do that to us. He said he wanted his first child to be with us.
You never know? And what of Reggie? There is no way he would help get you both back together a SECOND time right? What we mean is, this is his fault after all. Had he not interfered in our life like this, then we wouldn't be here now.
That isn't true? This could have still happened but in a different way.
Is that so? Who was it that started fucking our mother to start with? Who was it that failed to tell her how he feels about her? Who was it that she cheated with in the first place? Who was it that got her pregnant in the first place? Whose kid was it that she was carrying? It wasn't daddies. Now was it?
N...No… it wasn't...but...he LOVED mom.
If he loved her so much, then why didn't he tell her? We both know we're right, Eris. Not to say who was it that ended up breaking us and Knuckles up the first time? Even if it was an accident?
H...He did. But he didn't mean to…
That's right. He did. And who was it that had an affair with OUR mother?
He did. But...
And who was it that ruined the trust between our mother and father?
H-He did...but…
AND who was it that ended up getting her pregnant with HIS kid…
H-he did...but…
And who was it that made our father all but ignore us? In a way, kind of DISOWN us? Made him blame US for everything bad that happened?
No…
Who was it that ruined your life? Took it all away…
NO! JUST STOP RIGHT NOW! ALL REGGIE MEANT WAS GOOD! HE IS THE ONLY GOOD THING IN MY LIFE! WHO IS TO SAY ALL OF THIS WOULDN'T STILL HAPPEN IF HE WASN'T AROUND!? HE LOVED MOM, HE LOVED US! BUT IT WAS MOSTLY DADDIES FAULT TOO! HE STARTED IGNORING US! PUTTING WORK BEFORE US! DADDY IS JUST AS MUCH TO BLAME!
Is he?
Yes! He picked work over us, only because he wanted a better life for us. It's not fully Reggie's fault!
Remember everything that happened to us. Remember everything bad. Remember everything that led up to this point in time. Remember, Eris. Remember how it all started.
J-JUST STOP! PLEASE I'M BEGGING YOU! I DON'T WANT TO DO THIS ANYMORE! I JUST WANT TO SLEEP AND NEVER WAKE UP! I CAN'T DO THIS ANYMORE! NOT WITHOUT MAMA! I NEED HER HERE WITH ME! BUT SHE IS GONE!
And why is that? WHO'S fault is it! THINK, ERIS! THINK!
NO! JUST GO AWAY! LEAVE ME ALONE! I DON'T WANT THIS! I NEVER WANTED ANY OF THIS! I JUST WANT TO BE LEFT ALONE! NEVER TO WAKE UP! GO AWAY! GO AWAY! JUST GO AWAY! LET ME DIE IN PEACE SO I CAN BE WITH MOTHER!
We're sorry, but we can't allow that. We need to stay alive. We need to live. For now...we will be here...reminding us of what happened. Reminding us of how we used to be. So rest now. Soon we will wake up again. For now, remember everything…
