Sonic/Grand Order: Battle Against The Outer Gods
Gotterdammerung
*Back To Sonic's World*
"I hope you enjoyed that break back at Mash's world, Sonic. But it's time to return to work and deal with these Islands." Tails said
"*Looking Through The Chaldea Communicator With NEw Servant Names Added Into The List* Don't have to tell me twice! After what happened on the first Island and those Servants joining our side now. It's safe to say that I know what we're up against now. And Mash has been training her new weapons set here while we were in Chaldea. She's grown immensely ever since the last time you met her." Sonic replied
"Yes, Senpai, now I know what my new armor is capable of. I'm guaranteed to protect more now." Mash said
"*Flying The X-Tornado Towards The next Island* Haha! Glad to hear that from you, Mash! You were terrific in that first fight with the new weapons against that Ivan guy before. It was so cool! Now then, According to the coordinates that the Distress signal gave us. The location is back above Europe in the west sea of Norway. The entire Scandinavian Peninsula. Even though we just departed from Emerald Town. Our time to reach this location with the X-Tornado is shorter than the previous Island we went through." Tails explained
"The only thing I don't get is the Distress Signal. Where was it sent, and how was it sent?" Mash asks
"Hmmm... According to her, the last signal was that it said it was located on this Island we were heading off to. But after further research and investigation, the distress signal was found in one of the Scandinavian countries below said Island. As with how it was sent to us. My only guess is that they used a communication device from one of Eggman's robots to communicate with anyone who would be able to listen to them. And we happen to be one of them." Tails replied
"So much for looking at this person on the Island. Either way, we'll have to destroy this Island and locate this mysterious person. That's our official goal here." Sonic said
"That is right, Sonic! Our mission here is to destroy this Island, the Tree of Emptiness, once all of those are done. We go back to Europe we know and locate the Distress Signal. Sounds easy, right?" Tails explained
"Sounds good to us. Mash, unlike the last location. This time will be easier knowing that I have you again! Together, we will destroy this place!" Sonic said
"Yes, Senpai! *Gently Hold Sonic's Right Hand* I'll always be by your side, no matter what." Mash replied
"Alright then, let's do this, team! *Presses A Few Buttons As The X-Tornado's Engine Burst As It Goes Even Faster Towards The Next Island* To the second Island we go! Sweden!"
Island No.2
1000? B.C. The Eternal Icy Fire Century, Gotterdammerung
Cleaning The Master Emerald's Mess
*At The Island*
After flying their way from Emerald town, the X-Tornado finally arrives at the 2nd Island as it slowly lands on the snow. Three look at their surroundings to see another snow-like land but calmer than before as Sonic activates the Chaldea Communicator on his right arm.
"Good day to you, Master of Chaldea. How was the trip towards the 2nd Island?" Da Vinci said
"*Jumps Out Of The Plane* Went well as usual. However, this Island is again snowy, minus the blizzard hitting our faces. I would say it's more peaceful here." Sonic replied
"Awww, does the Master of Chaldea need a jacket for this adventure? I thought you were used to environments like this." Olga joked
"Fair play, Olga, I see a giant sun above us, and it's veritably not the sun I know. All that aside, it's the same as before." Sonic said
"Well, do what you need to remove that Island from your world. Don't let the Docter get the best of Chaldea. And also locate the person from that Distress signal we received." Olga said
"Will do, Olga. Anyway, this place does look more peaceful than the first Island. Am I right, Mash?" Sonic asks
"It feels like a natural winter wonderland compared to Russia! I'm sure the temperature will drop to below zero once night falls, but right now, I'm just enjoying how peaceful it is." Mash replied
"Seems like a place that Amy would force me to go if she ever continued chasing me, but anyway, let us begin our journey. Care to look at a mountain with our surroundings?" Sonic asks
"Sure thing, Senpai, that will give us a better understanding of this place," Mash replied
"You two go ahead. I'll catch up with you in a little. I need to inspect the X-Tornado for any signs of any errors." Tails said
"Sounds good to me! *Bridal Carries Mash* Alright, Mash! Let's go! *Dashes Away In Light Speed* Yahoo!"
*On Top Of The Mountain*
"Wow. It's a white mountain range stretching on forever. And I think they're made of ice and snow. There's some blue haze to the north, about halfway along the range. Wait, is that." Mash said
"They are up in flames. Heh, you may even call this A Hot Winter Wonderland! Something Ice Cap zone doesn't have. But anyway, this is something that shouldn't exist in my world. Even though we are on top of a mountain, I don't see this dang Tree anywhere we can destroy. Hey, Da Vinci, gives the status of our current location and what we should expect." Sonic said
"Let's see, based on your location here; we are both seeing here. When you mentioned the sun being closer previously. I have to assume that this is a different sun inside this Island's boundaries since it's disconnected from your actual world with a wall surrounding it to prevent outsiders from entering inside easier. And the flames as well, I'm not sure about that. Could you please explain what you see?" Da Vinci said
"They are floating above the mountains, I guess?" Sonic said
"Floating, huh? It sounds like something must be the cause of those flames and sounds like a work of magecraft. Hmmm... What form of magecraft are we looking at?" Olga questioned
"One thing's for sure is that we must continue looking for those answers. Right after we take care of that humanoid creature down there. Ready, Mash?" Sonic said
"Yes, Master! *Changes Armor With A Her Shield Switching To A Large Spear* Let's do this!" Mash replied
*Later*
"*Homing Attacking The Humonaid Creator In The Face Several Times* What's the matter, big guy? Can't handle the speed of a Hedgehog? Dodges The Humanoid Creature's Attack* Too slow!" Sonic said
"*Jumps Right At The Humiod Creature And Slashes It Several Times In Its Body Before Stabbing The Spear Into The Body And Kick It As The Creature Slowly Falls Back And Vanishes* Enemy eliminated! It looks like these giants are, on average, Scandinavia, with no sign of magecraft or Master Emerald inside them. We just fought against an ordinary being in legend. However, as we fought, I sensed a little magecraft in them." Mash said
"How interesting. No wonder these guys seemed different than before. Oh well, it doesn't matter what they are. They are still our enemies at the need of the day, so I suggest we continue our journey before more creatures come and bother us. We don't want that to happen, right?" Sonic replied
"Wait! Sonic and Mash! I'm detecting an unknown Servant heading towards your way at High speeds! Another open of these Island Servants that also appeared as well!" Olga warned
Sonic and Mash quickly turn around and spot a Servant heading toward them at high speed and slashes Sonic multiple times, but Mash quickly gets in front of the mysterious Servant and pushes them away before they can cut Sonic.
"Wow, what's the sudden attack, dude? We just met two seconds ago, and already you want to attack me? Why's that?" Sonic asks
"I won't let you hurt Master! *Charges Up Spear As It Engulfs Itself*."
"What a dramatic scene to join. A Rodent and his Servant in armor are ready to battle. Wait a minute, a Rodent who's a Master, not a pure Heroic Spirit. Hehe. Interesting. " The Masked Heroic Spirit said
"Don't get intimated by him, Mash! This guy is nothing compared to you! Especially his sword of his!" Sonic said
"A rodent who isn't afraid of Heroic Spirits. Hehe, this should be fun. Hold still for me so I can make this easier. *Tosses Several Small Swords Toward Sonic, But Were Missed Due To Sonic's Speed* Hehe, for a rodent like you. You can dodge quite well." Masked Heroic Spirit said
"Well, thanks for the compliment. However, I think it's time to get serious and take down the trash like you. Are you ready, Mash?" Sonic asks
"Ready when you are, Senpai! Let's push this Servant back!" Mash replied
"Hehe. If you wish to defeat me. Then be my guest. I'm afraid both your joinery ends here. I'm going to kill you and treasure your heads with me!"
The Masked Heroic Spirit tosses a long sword straight into the air and punches it straight down towards Sonic, flying in high speed as Sonic backflips away from the attack, and the blade hits the snow soon after where he was standing just a second ago. Sonic then lands and dashes toward the Masked Heroic Spirit, curling into a ball and attempting to attack him with a Spin Dash attack that Masked Heroic Spirit quickly dodges and punches more miniature swords. Sonic, as he spins, dashes away with the smaller blades landing behind him and missing him. Mash then lunges toward the Masked Heroic Spirit and unleashes several strong spear attacks toward him with the Masked Heroic Spirit dodging each attack with relative and soon punches several more small swords towards Mash as she spins her spear in front of her and blocks the incoming blades and knocking them away from as she dashes towards the Masked Heroic Spirit and attacks him several times in different angles. Still, the Masked Heroic Spirit blocks each attack again. Soon after, the two began clanging weapons toward one another as sparks appeared each time they banged weapons. Sonic watches the two Servants battling against each other, covering their faces with masks as he quickly dashes toward the Masked Heroic Spirit and attempts to throw a punch towards the Masked Heroic Spirit. Still, he quickly dodges, grabs Sonic by the leg, slams down on the ground face first, and throws him towards a tree where he quickly regains his balance and lands on it with his feet, and jumps back down as the Masked Heroic Spirit punches several more swords Sonic. The latter soon backs away from the attacks, dashes toward the Masked Heroic Spirit, kicks him in the stomach, and pushes him back a few feet away.
"How's that for bothering both of us?!" Sonic said
"Alright, after analyzing during your battle, I know who this Heroic Spirit is. He's the child of Sigmund, king of Francia, and Hjördís, daughter of King Eylimi. A swordsman who forged his father's sword after overcoming Odin and his trial. The one who slew Fafnir. His true name is Sigurd." Olga said
"The Dragon Slayer!"
"Hehe. Look's like that woman revealed me to you two. Now that you know who you're against, how do you intend to fight him?" Sigurd asks
"Oh, you know, the usual. Every day, my enemies tell me how I intend to fight. To answer that question, Masked Dude, it's pretty simple. With the power of speed!" Sonic replied
"You are an annoying rodent. It's time for your death! *Lunges Toward Sonic And Swings His Sword At Him, But Sonic Quickly Dodges It* Hehe. You still are quite fast, Rodent. But I don't have the time to waste on killing animals. If you were a worthless human, I would've drawn out this battle only to see you suffer. Farewell. *Disappears*."
"Senpai!" Mash said
"We need to follow that guy! I don't care who he is! We need to stop him! Now!" Sonic said
*At A Icy Castle*
"*Walks Into The Catlse* I have spotted the Rodent. Just as you weak as you expected." Sigurd said
"Even after being gone for a couple of weeks, he returns with his stupid friends again?! Grrrrr! You are the most vital being in this land, yet he still manages to survive you! Well, no matter, now you know how it feels to battle against that Pesky Little Hedgehog! Your objective here is to track and kill him when you can! Don't be fooled by such a Rodent!" Dr. Eggman said
"I commend him and his two friends for taking down such an Island like Russia. But this is where his journey ends. He may have experienced a fighter on the battlefield, but that doesn't mean much to me! I will kill him. And I will have his head as a treasure for myself. Now excuse me, I'll rest, and you deal with whatever you're doing. *Walks Away*." Sigurd said
"Hmph, no matter the situation that Hedgehog is in. He still pushes on and continues the fight to get rid of me once and for all! After all those years of fighting against him and failing every time, things will be different this time. Forget about that Ivan person or the others back on that Island. Each Island's powerful beings continue to get stronger and stronger. It will take a miracle for him to overtake these Islands as well. Do you hear that, Sonic? Your adventure ends here! I win! Hohohohohoho!" Dr. Eggman laughed
"Hehe. I'm glad to see you in such high spirits, Docter. After years of failing each time, you finally have a chance of victory. Are these high spirits born of true romance? Tell me, what does it taste like?" Queen of Ice and Snow asks
"Your Majesty. *Cleared Throat* Sorry you have to hear me in this state. I got a little carried away, that's all. Just some fond memories with a certain Hedgehog and his deeds against me." Dr. Eggman replied
"Is that so? Well, my apologies then. It seems that you and this mysterious being have quite a history. I would like to hear more about this being that you keen of. Although you two have conflict towards one another, My world is a land where peace reigns far and wide. There has never been conflicting among its people. Not once. Of course, the wild beasts devour their prey, but that is as far as it goes." Queen of Ice and Snow said
"I see, your Majesty. But unlike your peaceful land. My world is full of constant wars between many factions across the world. And this Rodnet and I are always the subjects between these." Dr. Eggman replied
"How cruel for a world to have many wars, and why? But I suppose I should commend you for your survival up to this point. Surely you haven't forgotten? Every bit of snow and ice blanketing this world is a part of me. The breath of all living creatures...their cries, their fluttering. That goes for the being you mentioned and his two friends here. As I speak, they are disturbing the peace by defeating the giants away. How touching. How pitiful. They rather fight for peace rather than something less durable." Queen of Ice and Snow said
"That Rodent was quite the speedster. He was quick enough to dodge my suprise attacks against him. He was impressive if I'm being serious." Sigurd said
"So this being can sprint as well? How adorable. Hehehe. Why kill them?"
"If you want me to kill them all right now, I'll go take care of it," Sigurd said
"Please don't kill them. I forbid it. My snow and ice are an expression of my love, not of death. I will not tolerate anyone staining its pure white with crimson. Is that clear?" Queen of Ice and Snow said
"What?!" Dr. Eggman surprise
"Love is a wonderful thing. If you ever come to know it yourselves, take care not to lose it. You must cradle it in your hands, hold it close, and hold it tight. If you are not careful, loveless flames may throw everything out of balance. That is how it has been since the gods first came to be. Is that clear, Docter? Sir Knight?" Queen of Ice and Snow said
Stand At A Distance, a Valkyrie overhears the talk between Dr. Eggman, Sigurd, and the Queen of Ice and Snow.
*Back with Sonic And Mash*
"*Walking Through The Snow Still* This place feels precisely like Ice Cap Zone back in Angel Island. Just add loops and grind rails, and I'll be set!" Sonic said
"We can deal with that later, Sonic. We just need to continue heading further and investigate this Island. Based on previous research here and your surroundings. It doesn't seem that there aren't any cities here, just like in any of our worlds. Is it only just the four of us here? Especially those mysterious flames up there." Da Vinci said
"Beats me. I don't care about those flames in the sky. I'm here to save my world from these locations that originated from your world." Sonic replied
"Wait a minute. I'm detecting a group of life forms close to your location. It could be a village that is possibly near your location. I suggest you two head there and see what's happening." Olga said
"Sounds good to me! Come on, Mash! Let's get going!" Sonic replied
"Right, Senpai! *Get's Bridal Carried By Sonic Again, Blushing As He Speeds Off Running On The Snow*."
"This Hedgehog loves to run fast in any case scenario. Does he?" Olga said
"On the bright side, he's got to any location in just a few seconds. Faster than any of my creations. Maybe I can build something that can challenge Sonic with his speed. Will see if technology can overtake a quick Hedgehog like Sonic." Da Vinci replied
*Later*
"This place seems very beautiful, Senpai. It may be bizarre, given the current circumstances. I can't lie and say that it's beautiful." Mash said
"Really, huh? I think it's just a standard icy location, as always. It could be that I have a history of running through snowy locations and don't expect to see anything around them, but I make an expectation with this location only." Sonic replied
"*Stops In Her Tracks* There are large magical energy signals nearby... They look to be giants! The only we stop, this happens? *Get's Ready For Battle* Anyway, commencing battle!"
"Mash, duck!" Sonic shouted
"Wha-"
Suddenly, Mash notices several rockets flying toward the Giants, Badnicks, and beasts, all exploding on impact as soon they come in contact with the monsters. Sonic and Mash watched as the rockets quickly took down the beasts, as they all vanished soon after. Mash was shocked by the sudden rocket attack but prompnoticedices the X-Tornado landing in front of them where the beasts were at a second ago. It was Tails once again.
"Hey there, Sonic and Mash! Sorry for not arriving in time. I just finished fizzing up the X-Tornado by implementing weapons into it! As you just saw, that were newly designed rockets capable of taking down monsters like that. Pretty cool, huh?" Tails said
"Tails! Thank you for saving us! You didn't mean to do it." Mash said
"Don't worry about it, Mash. I'm just to help out my friends. That's all. Anyway, where are you two heading off two?" Tails ask
"We were just heading towards a location where we spotted life forms together. could be a village or something else but will soon find out." Sonic replied
"A village, huh? I will then hop on and will head straight over there in a short time notice. *Transforms X-Troando Back To The Snow Mobile* The Snow Mobile is back in session!" Tails said
"Haha! You are ready for situations like Tails. It's a good thing we have you on our side." Mash commented
*Sometime Later*
"*Being Told About What's Happened So Far* I see. Well, you two were fine during that fight against that Masked Man. He seems quite the tough opponent." Tails said
"Don't worry about it, Tails. All of that was just a warmup! The next time we see him, it'll be easier to defeat him." Sonic replied
"Is there anything around our surroundings, Tails? Just in case for any giants?" Mash asks
"According to our G.P.S. here. There are a couple of detections of those giants roaming around, but they are quite far from us also; they won't be able to catch up to us now that we are inside a vehicle. Wait a minute, is that a human detection I see?" Tails said
"Eeyaaaaaaaaah!"
Even though they were inside the vehicle, they still managed to hear the defiant screams of a young girl outside. All three of them looked at each other as Tails stomped on the pedal and drove even after towards the direction of the life he detected.
*With The Girl*
"*Being Chased By Giants* They saw me... Now, what do I do? It was going so well, too... I don't understand... Why do things never turn out well for me!? I'm such an idiot! Ahhhhhh...! No, no... Please, no...!"
The Giants were about to crush the little Girl, but rockets soon came flying toward the Giants, hitting them directly in the face and pushing them back away from the Little Girl.
"W-What?"
Moments later, the little Girl spots Sonic dashing toward the Giants and homing, homing, and attacking them each several times at different angles as they try to cover their heads from being shot several times. As Sonic continues homing attacking the giants, Mash turns her shield into a Furuteriostic Sniper and fires Purple beams at each giant, piercing them through the chest as they all fall back onto the snow and vanish soon after. Mash then transforms her weapon back into a shield as she quickly rushes towards a giant and swings her shield across it, pushing it back as Sonic quickly jumps and stands on top of the giant's spear as he smiles, jumps off of it, and charges up his homing attack before flying towards the giant;'s head and piercing through its body as it vanishes soon after and Sonic land's onto the snow.
"*Wiping His Gloves* H.A.! How's that for a show?" Sonic said
"I don't detect any signs of more giants around us. I think we defeated them all." Mash replied
"It was a piece of cake! Now then."
"Bergrisar, Bergrisar, Bergrisar. O Heavenly Mother, O merciful Goddess... Please, I beg of you. Even if the giants smoosh me flat, please let me stay with everyone else after I die..."
"*Walks Towards The Girl, Kneels, And Places His Right Arm On Her Shoulder* Hey, are you alright? We heard you along the way and came to check things out." Sonic said
"*Slowly Looks Up And Notices Sonic In Front Of Him* W-Who are you? I-I has never seen anything like you before. Are you a talking animal?" The Girl asks
"It sure seems like, kid. Anyway, I'm glad you are safe but try not to wander around dangerous places on your own next time. Got it?" Sonic asks
"Y-You aren't here to hurt me, right? You aren't with those monsters?"
"Of course not. I'm just a Hedgehog who saves the innocent daily. Like right now, do you see any giants around you?" Sonic asks
"*Looking Around And Not Spotting Any Giants* Wow..."
"Hehe!"
"That's amazing! I can't believe it! *Hugs Sonic* Thank you, thank you, thank you! You two saved my life. That's so amazing! The Goddess must have sent you!" The Girl excited
"*Hugs The Girl In Return* Hehe! Don't mention it, kid. I don't know who this Goddess person is, but whoever she is. She sounds kind and caring." Sonic replied
"You're supposed to introduce yourself when you first meet someone, aren't you? I remember learning that. My name's Gerda!"
"Hello, Gerda. That's a lovely name you have." Mash said
"Thanks! Hehe. It's very nice to meet you both, Ms. Black Armor and Mr. Blue Animal. What are YOUR names?" Gerda asks
"I'm Sonic, Sonic The Hedgehog! This is Mash Kyrielight, and inside that thing behind us, my buddy Tails!" Sonic introducing everyone
"Sonic The Hedgehog and Mash Kyrielight. Got it! Please don't take this the wrong way, but is "The" your middle name, Sonic?" Gerda asks
"I have another middle name, but I rather let that keep that to myself," Sonic replied
"Oh, I get it. You two are amazing. I'm speechless that you saved me! What village do you hail from? You don't appear to be shivering. With so few garments on, how can you not feel cold? I'm warm and welcoming because of my fur coat. After deciding to travel alone, I realized I would need to be prepared for anything. I have to do it all alone because the adults won't help because they are too busy getting everything ready for tomorrow. That includes cooking and taking care of the kids who have severe fevers! Ah, that's right—a reward! You must return the favor when someone does something good for you. Oh, umm...I don't have anything on me right now. I'd have to go back to the village... B-but I also have to find the medicinal herbs before I go back... Hmmm. What should I do?
While Gerda is figuring out how to reward Mas and Sonic for saving her, Sonic realizes something as his eyes widen and pupils shrink.
"Senpai? What's wrong?" Mash asks
"If we destroy this land and its Tree of Emptiness. Then like Patxi, she will disappear as well!" Sonic replied
"Ah! Once that Tree is destroyed. This Island will disappear... As well as..."
"I can't just let a little girl disappear in front of me. I need to save her before we can destroy that Tree." Sonic said
"And how are we going to do that?"
"I think I have a solution to this. But for now, let's see she lives her life here. When the time is right, then the plan will come into motion. I need to talk with Tails about this. *Runs Back To The Snow Mobile To Talk With Tails In Private*." Sonic replied
*Later*
"*Driving While Sonic Talks To Him* Do you think that would work? Saving Gerda from this Island?" Tails ask
"It's the only option to save Gerda, Tails. I'm not letting an innocent kid disappear whenever I'm around once we understand more about herself. Then the mission to save her begins." Sonic replied
"Fou fou, foou!"
"Aww, you're adorable! Come here! It's okay! *Watching Fou Hopping* Oooh, that looks like fun. Let me try... *Copy's Fou's Jumping* Teehee! You're too pretty to be a mouse. Oh, I know. You must be a horse! You're so beautiful... Oh, but I did see something else beautiful just a little while ago. It was a rainbow! A huge, seven-colored rainbow stretched past the mountains! Nobody else saw it, but I did. Isn't that amazing? Hehe!" Gerda said
"*Watching Gerda And Fou Spending Time Together* Don't worry, Gerda, I'll make sure to take you to a place where it's more beautiful than this place. A place where peace lasts forever." Sonic thought
"Senpai, there's something I need to ask you about, Gerda. She said she was looking for medicinal herbs, right? Does that mean plants can grow around here? Not to mention that if this is an emergency. Why is she out here all by herself? There's no way an ordinary human could fight a giant alone. They'd be dead for sure." Mash asks
"That's right. I left my village to look for medicinal herbs! The grown-ups are too busy getting ready for tomorrow, so we kids must take care of ourselves. And since I'm the big sister, I must do my best to pull my weight. That's pretty mature of me, right? Hehe." Gerda replied
"So what about these giants roaming this island- I mean land!" Sonic said
"We only see them occasionally near the village, but I know there are many giants around these mountains. There's nothing else I can do. The only one who knows how to use runes is the Envoy. Her healing runes can cure sick people in no time. That's why I came all this way. Someone told me that there were terrific healing herbs near here. They said they could cure anything and that they're perfect for fevers! I know it's reckless of me to be out here. We're not ever supposed to leave the village." Gerda replied
"What do you mean that none can't leave this village?" Sonic curious
"Nobody's ever supposed to leave. Isn't it like that in your village, too? The only ones permitted to go outside the village are the envoys chosen to be servants of the gods." Gerda said
"Um, I'm sorry, but can you explain what you mean by "the gods" and "envoys"?" Mash said
"Hehe, nice try! But you won't trick me that easily! Lady Mash, Girl in black armor. People have always told me that only envoys of the Goddess have swords or spears. But I didn't know you used shields, too! That's amazing, Lady Mash!" Gerda explained
"Well, isn't that nice to hear? Flying things are here as well. Well, I'm not here for them, I have a home to save at the end of the day, and that matters most to me. Come on, Tails, let's find these medical herb things so we can tale Gerda back home." Sonic replied
"Right back at yall, buddy!" Tails said
"Hooray! I was hoping you might offer to help me! Ooh, does that mean you can read my mind? Even if you don't have any weapons of your own, Mr. Sonic... you must be an envoy of the gods, too!" Gerda excited
"
*Sometime Later, At The Destination*
After driving through the snowy forest and taking down several Giants, the vehicle arrives at a location where green grass and trees are now viewable more than previously.
"So this is the place, huh?" Sonic said
"See all the grass? There are even flowers, too! They say that long ago, there used to be places like that outside our village, too. Places where animals and flowers could grow and thrive. They say it happens way up high in places between fire and ice mountains." Gerda explained
"The air is nice and warm, and you can see the land. It's almost like a garden. That must be why plants and flowers can grow here." Mash said
"Gerba, Tell me where these herbs are located, and I'll go catch them quickly!" Sonic asks
"B-But you'll be caught by the giants, and they'll crush you!" Gerda replied
"Trust me. I know what I'm doing! Now come on!"
Gerda and Sonic both quickly leave the Mobile as Gerda points in the direction of these Herbs and what type they are. Sonic quickly gives her a thumbs up before dashing away at high speed towards the reaction. Gerda was left in shock to see Sonic run extremely fast.
"*Returns To The Vehicle Seconds Later With The Herbs* I got them!" Sonic said
"W-Wooow! That was incredible speed, Mr. Sonic! I didn't know you ran that fast! Not even the Giants spotted you!" Gerda shock
"Thanks, Gerda, running is my thing for me! But I will talk about that more inside! Come on. We need to escape before the giants do catch us. *Hears Roars Of Several Giants* Or right about now. Come on, let's go!" Sonic replied
*?*
"Hello, Docter. I didn't expect to see you after that painful defeat at the first Island." Koyanskaya said
"That defeat wasn't on purpose. I miscalculated Sonic's arrival and his new friends joining him to fight alongside him. That Skull face person still reeks me." Dr. Eggman replied
"So he's using his Servants to fight against you for not knowing being a Master. He can Command them quite decently. *Drinks A Shot Of Vodka* Pardon me for my drinking. It's just it tastes better than I expected. But it's not MY fault; it's this castle. A palace made entirely of solid ice? Talk about fantasy." Koyanskaya said
"Isn't one of my objectives for you to locate Sonic and kill him, as I told you before? We don't need that Rodent roaming around from total world control!" Dr. Eggman said
"Drinking Another Shot* No need to worry, with the help of this Island's King and adding a few things to my collection. I'll be on my way soon." Koyanskaya replied
"And what are those personal collections of yours?"
"You have a small brain, though, you fat bastard?"
"Oh, no need to worry. I promise they'll come in handy sometime in the future. Just give me some time. After all, we both have a dislike for humans, correct? It'll be correct if we deal with them more efficiently with a little bit of patience. Docter."
"..."
*Back With Sonic And The Others*
After a while of traveling through snow and grass field areas, the X-Tornado Snow Mobile arrives at a Village surrounded by icy mountains as it transforms back into its plane mode.
"And here we are! The village that Gerda mentioned to us. It looks more peaceful than I thought." Tails said
"*Carrying Gerda As He Jumps Out Of The Plane* So this is your home, Gerda?" Sonic asks
"Yes, it is! Welcome to my village! This is so strange and wonderful! I thought guests only showed up in stories! Let alone in something like that. I never thought I'd get actually to welcome real guests myself one day." Gerda replied
"*Whistles* This is quite the village. It's as peaceful as it can get here. And warmer than my world outside this place." Sonic said
"The part that stands out the most to me is the large gate that makes up what looks to be the only entrance. I also sense powerful magical energy here. A Bounded Field surrounds the whole village at that large gate. It's designed to keep away giants, beasts, and other beings related to magecraft. I can feel it weighing down on me, though only a little. It's calm, gentle, and very stable in the amount of magical energy it holds. Although, there's still one thing I don't understand. If Bounded Fields are crucial to ensuring people's way of life here, who put them up?" Mash said
"Magecraft is starting to become a household in my world now. But I don't know anything, so I'll skip that part." Sonic replied
"Are you talking about the charm on the gate? And what's this about the "Outside world" you keep bringing up, Mr. Sonic? Is there something beyond my home?" Gerda confuse
"My home, Gerda. My natural home, it's completely different from this land. I'll tell you once you show around this peaceful place you call home. Get a good feeling of how it feels to live like this! Besides, where are your parents? You think they'll be worried sick if you haven't appeared." Sonic asks
"Parents? What are those? Oh, you mean the Goddess? I hear she is everyone's mother. Every human is the Goddess's child, after all. But...I'm afraid the Goddess isn't here, Mr. Sonic." Gerda replied
"*Blinks Twice After Hearing Gerda's Replied* U-Uh... So the mother is a... Goddess... How interesting... Mash, can you talk with Gerda for a second? I need to talk with Tails." Sonic asks
"Sure thing, Senpai."
Moments later, Sonic dashes out of the village and stops outside where Tails is looking at Miles Electric.
"*Look's Up And Notices Sonic* Oh, there, Sonic! What's up?" Tails ask
"Hey there, Tails, I need to talk to you about Gerda. Remember what I told you will happen after we destroy that Tree?" Sonic replied
"Yea, just like that previous Island from before. Everything will vanish. Are you here to discuss the plan to help Gerda escape this place?" Tails said
"That is correct, and earlier than previously mentioned from what I heard just now. She doesn't have a mother or father or anyone that could take care of her. And she just wondered outside the village like it was a natural thing to do. I don't want her to get into more dangerous situations like what happened back there. I must save her from these monsters and disappear alongside this Island." Sonic replied
"I see. We were so refreshed in our memories. Your goal to prevent Gerda from vanishing is to get her out of the boundaries of these Islands into our home so that way, once we destroy the Tree. She won't be affected by being vanished?" Tails said
"It's easier said than done, Tails. If this happened in Mash's world and had the Chaos Teleporter activate during that time. I would've brought her here and let her stay while we were dealing with a place like this. However, it's happening in our world, so that means..."
"The chances of her vanishing outside this place are higher." Tails said
"But we can't let that reason foil our plans. We need to save Gerda at the end of the day! It's worth a shot! I would rather see her continue to live and grow into a caring girl than see her life vanish in just a snap." Sonic replied
"Yeah, you're right. We don't want another Patxi incident where they disappear. Let alone a caring little girl with a kind soul. Don't worry, Sonic. The plan to save Gerda is still our main objective. Though her chances of disappearing are a high percentage as well. That doesn't mean we can give it a shot." Tails ask
"I knew I could trust you, Tails. I'll tell you when everything is set so we can leave this Island with Gerda to a safer place." Sonic replied
"Wait, once she does, leave this place and take her to our place. Who's going to watch over her while we are here fighting?" Tails ask
"At first, I thought of asking Shadow, but knowing that G.U.N. is also taking part in investigating the Islands. He's also working with them on exploring these islands. Maybe alongside Rouge as well. My question is, what Island is he currently at, at the moment?" Sonic questioned
"Beats me, but I'm sure we will see him and Rouge soon. How about Vanilla watches over Gelda for us? I'm sure she doesn't mind watching her." Tails said
"Sounds good to me! Besides, Cream will also like a new friend around. A win, win deal here!" Sonic replied
*Later, Back Inside The Village*
"Mr. Sonic. Welcome back. Where did you?" Gerda asks
"Oh, I just needed to take care of a few things for a moment. Nothing troublesome. So, about that tour around this place." Sonic replied
"O-Oh, right! Sorry about that, Welcome to our home, Village 23. Please, let me repay you for saving my life. You can spend the night at my house! I'll be thirteen soon, after all, so I've already got my own home! Hehe, we can have dinner in front of my fireplace. This will be great! We can have freshly baked bread, and I'll get some fish, too! I'll go fishing before it gets dark and catch the biggest one in the pond." Gerda said
"Village 23?" Mash said
"Hm? Yes, that's right. What about it?"
Suddenly, the three heard a crowd of children rushing towards Gelda and hugging her.
"It's Gerda! Gerda's back! Welcome back, Gerda. I can't believe it! You came back from the outside! And you did get the herbs the legends talked about!?" The Boy said
"Now Laura's going to be all right! Hooray! Who're they!? Is that a Blue animal standing on two legs with shoes and gloves on? Is he a mouse?" The Girl asks
"Now, that's the first time I heard someone calling me a mouse. Haha! Far better than being called a rodent daily." Sonic commented
"Wow, that giant mouse can talk as well! That's so cool!" The Girl said
"You're so pretty, miss! And your black armor is so awesome!" The Boy said
"Pretty hair... Pretty face..."
"Who made that amazing armor of yours? Was it the Blue mouse?" The Boy asks
"It was made by Sonic's friend who's currently outside this village," Mash replied
"Say, I only see children around here. But no grown-ups. Why's that?" Sonic commented
"Haha, you're so funny, Mr. Sonic. Everyone knows the elderly are just from legends. Of course, you're not going to find any in a village. I mean... every grown-up leaf when they turn twenty-five, right?" Gerda said
"W-What do you mean by that?" Sonic said
"Every grown-up with a ten-year-old child leaves once they turn twenty-five and gets eaten by a giant. So nobody ever lives past twenty-five. And if you haven't had a child by fifteen, you have to go too. I've heard that's true for every village. At least all the towns from 1 to 100." Gerda explained
Sonic and Mash's Eyes and mouths widen after hearing what Gerda said.
"A-Are you saying there aren't any adults at all?!" Sonic said
"Uh-huh. Children and the grown-ups raising them are the only ones allowed to live in the hundred villages the Goddess and her envoys made for us, after all. *Notices Sonic And Mash In A State Of Shock* U-Um... Lady Mash? Mr. Sonic? I don't understand. Why are you all so shocked? That's just how it is! It's the same everywhere, right? I'm turning fifteen in two years, so if I don't have children by then, splat! That'll be it for me." Gerda said
"W-What the hell am I listening to you?! Who in their right mind thinks that any of this is alright?!" Olga said
"Why do you sound so sad all of a sudden...? Oh no. Did I say something to offend you again? Uh-oh, now what do I do." Gerda said
"Now I have a true reason to save Gelda... I need to get Gelda out of this place as soon as possible! This is absurd!" Sonic thought
*At The Castle*
"The perfect witch's castle, something humankind yearns for but can never achieve, Your Majesty. You do have excellent taste. What an elegant court you have here. I like it very much. It's wonderfully designed, of course, but I also love your choice of materials. It's made entirely out of ice, after all." Koyanskyaba said
"What do you mean by taste?" Queen Of Ice And Snow replied
"Oh my. Do you mean it isn't? Does that mean you'd prefer something more typical? Cinderella's castle?" Koyanskyaba said
"Although I've never heard her name, she sounds interesting. She must have led a life full of promise and surprise, so different from my life as a woman of ice and snow."
"Her stepsisters mistreating her, in the beginning is fantastic, but she triumphs in the end, and they receive their just rewards. It's a disgusting tale. Your Majesty, I'm so glad you're not like that. Do you detest happy endings? Just take a look at this chilly, practical world you created. I'd like to friend you on Magebook as a result. How many horrible human deaths you have witnessed would be fascinating to me. After all, O Goddess, you didn't construct this castle for the sake of humanity."
"Not for the benefit of people, but for me, this fortress exists. I will grant you that Odin was a good man in his own right and was also a god. He would never give me a defense that was made for people. The Allfather would never worry about human frailty. He would never consider such a thing. Yes, humans are frail. Frail. This frail. The mere passing of time extinguishes their lives. Because of this, they will always need a god's eternal love to keep them alive." Queen Of Ice And Snow replied
"So that's how you're running this place. You have a hundred villages with about a hundred residents each, making for no more than ten thousand people. Under most circumstances, they would go extinct, but you've kept them around for generations without letting their numbers increase. Their world revolves around the empty happiness of their daily lives and the heartless suffering that comes right at the end. There's no point in tormenting people like that. No wonder I've been so unmotivated here... It turns out this place was filled with love all along. Couldn't possibly get further from my tastes!" Koyanskaya said
"Humans must not die out. They, too, are my beloved children. They, too, survived the days of scorching flame. As their god, I will never stop loving humans. I cannot speak to other worlds, but that is the way of this one. I decided long ago that I would love my children for eternity. Why would I ever destroy them?" Queen of Ice and Snow replied
"Then you have no intention of destroying humans? Does that mean Your Majesty thinks they're worth protecting?"
The mother of Scandinavia is to love all creatures, great and small. None must die out. None shall die by my hand. Even if Odin proved incapable of such a feat, I would never consider destroying them. Every creature in my domain is treated the same way. Did I not tell you what that was? It is a simple question. Do I kill them, or do I love them? If they are an enemy, then I kill them. If not, I love them."
*Back With Sonic, Night Time*
Night time has arrived inside the Island as Sonic and Mash were inside Gerda's home, getting comfortable at home. Mash played with Fou while Sonic stared outside the window, waiting for something to happen.
"Senpai, what are you starring outside? Is there someone we should be expecting today?" Mash asks
"I'm just waiting for Tails, that's all. He said he was supposed to be here very soon but hadn't arrived yet. I wonder why." Sonic replied
"Didn't he say he would stay back at the X-Tornado for the time being while the two of us were inside here?" Mash questioned
"Yeah, but you know. Always look out for your friends, no matter what."
"Lady Mash! Mr. Sonic! What are you two talking about? Is it about Mr. Sonic's friend?" Gerda asks
"Yes, it seems that he won't be coming here anytime soon and is staying behind the vehicle we rode to get here today. Don't worry. He's doing fine for himself." Mash replied
"Hehe! Mr. Sonic and his friend know many things I've never heard about before. Having you around is so much fun! I wasn't sure if an envoy like you two would like my cooking, but you even said my bread and fish were delicious! You're so kind, intense, and just... incredible! I just love spending time with you. Will you stay tomorrow night too? I know you must have worked since tomorrow's a special day, but if you don't mind." Gerda said
"Quite the delicious food outside of my regular chill dogs. I'll give it a pass! Anyway, Gerda, can I ask you something rapid?" Sonic asks
"Sure thing, Mr. Sonic! You can tell me anything you like!" Gerda replied
"What's it like living in a place where life is limited? Does it affect you in any way? Do you have something planned for the future? And how do you feel when you grow up into adulthood? Does vanishing at an early age not affect you while surrounded by giants daily?" Sonic asks
"..."
"I'm sorry, I guess. I wish I could respond, but I'm afraid I don't comprehend what you two are saying. What do you mean when you say "future"? I believe I understand what the word implies. Right, it refers to the time after tomorrow. I, er, also understand what "free" means. It's when you're not confined to your house or restrained by a rope, correct? I am free in that scenario! In the entire hamlet, I am free to travel wherever I like! I have access to the pond and the farms in the center of the village and anyone's home I choose to visit. I can visit Laura's home to meet the newborn.." Gerda replied with confidence
"What if I told you there is a different world outside this land where freedom and the future play a significant role?" Sonic said
"Different world outside my existing home? W-What are you talking about, Mr. Sonic?" Gerda asks
"Outside this place is a world filled with infinite possibilities. That world offers great futures and opportunities for everyone. Also, people in that world get to live longer than here. No monsters roam that world, also. And many people are happy together with wonderful children. That's what they call a family out there. One of the most amazing things a human can have." Sonic replied
"That's right, Gerda, I saw Sonic's world as well in my own eyes. It's more peaceful than anything I could imagine. It's like a world where people like me can arrive and live peacefully without dealing with danger daily. It was paradise outside. The people out there were much more likable and more understanding as well. They don't live under the threat of their lives being taken away early. It's... normal..." Mash said
"This outside world, I-I don't know what to think about it. I'm sorry, I know I'm not giving you good answers, but I don't understand the question... Is there a place outside here that is different than my world?" Gerda said
"..."
"Don't be sad, Mr. Sonic. From what I was told, I think this place sounds lovely. I can't even begin to imagine it all! That's never happened to me before. You said in your world, the possibility is endless. I can't imagine seeing myself living in a world where that is run like that." Gerda replied
*The Next Day*
"After what you told me right now, things aren't going great in our plan." Tails said
"She's used to this lifestyle, so that's quite understandable. Still, just because she's used to living like this with the other children. That doesn't mean she won't be dealing with this lifestyle anytime longer. I know it'll be hard for her to get used to Mobius, but it's for the better if we wish her to continue living." Sonic replied
"What about the other children? Should we be helping them as well?" Tails ask
"..."
"Ummm... Sonic, why aren't you saying anything?" Tails confuse
Moments later, the two heard noises coming from the distance as they both ran in the direction of the noises.
"Congratulations! Congratulations! It's great you all made it today. Thanks for everything! I'm so glad the Goddess brought us together!"
"Say hi to everyone else when you get there. We had to say goodbye to three people just last year..."
"Here, these flowers are for you. All the boys grew them together. We hope you can use them to decorate your new home!"
"Hey! We girls helped too, you know! Ugh, this is precisely why I hate boys. You're such jerks!"
"Hey, no saying "jerk." You know we're not allowed to use any bad words today."
"O-oh, I'm sorry... J-just forget it! I didn't even mean to say it!"
"What the heck is going on here?" Sonic confuse
"Thank you, everyone. Thank you so much. It makes us happy to get a bouquet from you like this." A Male Grown-Up said
"It does. You all follow the Goddess's teachings and have grown up as wonderful children. We're happy. Make sure you all get along even after we've left. We can't wait to see you again when you come to join us one day. Take care of yourselves, everyone." The Female Grown Up said
"Oh, There's a few grown-ups there. They do exist, even though we didn't see any yesterday. It looks like the children are giving them something. Flowers?" Mash confuse
"Those are unique flowers. It took six months for all the children to grow them. They're essential. You can't go to Valhalla without them. Only souls with proof that they were loved can go there. The Goddess decided that long, long ago. So long it would make your head spin! So that's why all the children grow flowers. It's our job." Gerda explained
"What the heck is Valhalla?" Sonic questioned
"One of the lands of the dead in Norse mythology. In Norse legend, it's said that only the Valkyries can ever go there. Of course, that also means the only people who can go there are, by definition, dead. A land...of the deceased..." Mash said
Tails and Sonic both looked at each with complete shock expressions on their faces.
"Lady Mas. Mr. Sonic. If you hadn't saved me from those giants, they'd have squished me before I had a chance to get my bouquet. Then my soul would have wandered around forever, and I'd never get to go to Valhalla! So thank you so, so, SOOO much! I really can't ever thank you enough!" Gerda said
"..."
"..."
"..."
"I know we used it to enter the village when we came back from picking medicinal herbs yesterday, but that's not really what it's for. It's meant for leaving. I was leaving. It's where the chosen grown-ups go on the ordained day. Nobody ever uses it to come in." Gerda said
"Envoy, O envoy. We have come to offer you everything by the word of the Heavenly Mother."
"*Counting* Twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty. Look over there!"
The three looked up and heard voices coming from above.
"Humans. O humans, today is the ordained day. O humans, today is the day your lives shall be taken. Know that this is an act of love. Know that the last remaining deity–the Goddess–extends her hand to you out of love through this act. O humans, bow your heads. Give thanks to the ice, the snow, and the light."
"What the?! What's going on?!" Sonic shock
"Envoy! O, Envoy! O glorious Valkyrie, gleaming bright! Please take the grown-ups with you!"
"They followed all of the Goddess's teachings and raised us! The ones who couldn't raise us played with us until they were fourteen!"
"None of them are bad people! So please..."
"They're here! Envoy... Angel... Wait, no! I'm sensing a powerful magical energy signal coming from the sky! They're either a pseudo-god or a demigod, but their mystical energy is potent either way! This must be one of the beings known in Proper Human History as the daughters of Odin...the Valkyries!" Mash shock
"You gotta be kidding me!" Sonic shock
"O humans, rejoice. I shall open the excellent gate for you by divine law. Walk through it. Do not hesitate. Meet your end as sacrifices to the giants. Do that, and your souls shall be taken to the Hall of Warriors, though you have never known battle. Rejoice, humans, and be glad. This is love, bestowed upon you by the one true Goddess."
"Thank you, O envoy. We are endlessly grateful for the blessings you and the Goddess have given us."
"We will go to meet our end. Please, open the gate for us."
"I'm not dealing with this! HEY! YOU! What's the meaning of this?! Are you out of your mind?!" Sonic shouted
"What is this strange sound? This is astonishing; it is a crime most grave. Who would interrupt this most sacred ritual?" Envoy said
"Please wait, Envoy. Or rather, Valkyrie."
"H-huh? Wh-what are you doing? You're not supposed to go against tradition on the ordained day!" Gerda said
"*Looks Back At Gerda, Starring At Her For A Few Moments Before Going Back To Talking* Valkyrie, you said these grown-ups would go to Valhalla... To Odin's palace, the Hall of Warriors. In Norse mythology, Valhalla is supposed to be the final resting place for the souls of brave heroes. But these people don't even have swords, let alone armor! They're not warriors! And you mean to send them to their deaths? To be killed by giants? Even though they worship you...!?" Mash shock
"Our shared records reported that heathens had invaded our holy land–and now here you stand. In that case, it falls to me to execute you... *Dashes Towards Mash To Attack Her Only To Be Stopped By Sonic With A Homing Attack* ..."
"Don't think you are getting with this easily!" Sonic shouted
"What a strange being. You are nothing of the sort I saw before. But if you, creature, are standing the way against Heavenly Mother, then I have a choice but to kill you. You must die. Your souls will never ascend to Valhalla. You will simply be consumed by giants and die, loveless and alone." Envoy said
"H.A.! Keep talking, weirdo! I know more things about this place than you do! Come on, Mash! Let's do this!" Sonic said
"*Changes Armor And Weapon* Ready, Senpai! Let's do this!"
"Please...! Envoys aren't supposed to argue with each other...!"
"I'm sorry, Gerda! But I'm not an envoy! That's why I can–I WILL fight her on this!"
Mash rushes towards the Envoy as the two begin clanging weapons. The Envoy's light weapon and Mash's armored-made weapon stand each other powerful attacks as Gerda watches the two battling each other, shocked by the scene she's currently witnessing. The Envoy attacks Mash with lighting fast attacks against Mash. Still, she manages to block each attack with her spear as she moves towards the air, aiming her spear towards the Envoy, charging it up and throwing it towards her as the Envoy blocks the attack with her and pushes it asides as it gets stuck onto the ground. Before the Envoy can charge towards Mash and attack her, Sonic homing attacks the spear out of bed and towards Mash, bouncing off of the weapon and heading straight towards the Envoy as they notice him getting close and move out of the way, dodging the attack as Sonic land's onto the ground. Sonic turns around and sees the Envoy flying towards him, attacking him with their weapon. Still, Sonic jumps away from the attack, dodging it entirely before rushing back at the Envoy and performing an updraft kick directly at the Envoy's chin and sending him flying straight up, Sonic jumping at it soon after before performing a backward roundhouse kick and sending them flying a few feet falling back onto the ground and hitting it. The Envoy quickly gets back up as they notice Mash heading straights toward them and slams her weapon at them but misses and instead hits the round. The Envoy readied itself to charge toward Mash and attacks her, but a ball of energy hits them and pushes them away from Mash; the Envoy looks and notices Tails with an arm cannon on his right arm and fires multiple energy balls towards the ENvoy as they flew around and dodged each energy ball easily. As they escaped the energy shots, Sonic quickly revs up and homing attacks directed toward the Envoy, hitting them in the stomach and dropping them back onto the ground soon after. Mash then rushes and slashes her spear at it multiple times before kicking them away and hitting the wall, falling soon after.
"H.A.! How's that for a couple of animals and a Human?" Sonic said
"How? How can a human and animal defeat an envoy?"
"Sonic has fought countless enemies before. I'm a Demi-Servant who once possessed the power of a Heroic Spirit. The sort who is precisely the kind of hero whose soul Valkyries would have desired. Given your nature, you can't ignore the remains of that hero inside me. That's why..." Mash said
"The soul of a hero. Two thousand and several hundred years since I was manufactured...and never once...did I get...to see one..."
"Oh, and one more thing, you are standing on top of a bigger world where this history never existed! *Watches As The Envoy Look's At Him And Vanishes Soon After* Look's like the truth got her. Anyway, great job on fighting back, Mash!" Sonic commented
"Wh-why did you do that? How could you fight another envoy!? The...the Goddess is going to be mad..." Gerda shock
"The Envoy's gone... It just vanished into thin air... Is that even possible...?"
"H-huh? Now, what's going to happen with the ritual...?"
"This isn't right! It doesn't make sense! We gave them the bouquet, but the Envoy never opened the gate!"
"We can't open it ourselves, right? Gerda did yesterday, but we can't do that on the ordained day, right?"
"Oh no... This is terrible! The Envoy's gone! She was supposed to take us to Valhalla!"
"It's okay! The envoys are servants of the Goddess, right? Even if one disappears, more will come in her place. There, look...! See that light in the sky?"
"*Looking Up At The Sky* Hehe! Look's like we got a new company ahead of us. Hey, Mash, care for a little target practice?" Sonic asks
"Switching armory! *Switches Spear To A Futuristic Rifle* Thanks
"What?! I didn't know Mash's new arsenal could do something like that! Not even Emeral couldn't do something like that!" Tails shock
"It's pretty unique, huh? Anyway, let's get rid of these flying things!" Sonic said
Moments later, the army of Valkyries headed straight down to Sonic and Mash, as they were all intending to kill both of them. Sonic laughs as he starts running in circles, building up a massive tornado that sucks in debris and creates powerful winds. The Children held onto each other as the Valkriyes were getting sucked into the Tornado as they were trying to fly away from being sucked in. Still, Sonic ran even faster, as well as the speed of the Tornado, as all the Valkyries were sucked into the Tornado and spun around in circles above Sonic. Moments later, Mash aims the rifle at Tornado and begins firing Purple beams towards the Valkyries, hitting them in either the chest or head and taking tons of damage. One by one, Mash fires right at them as. They vanish soon after from each shot Mash fired at them. Gerda watches in disbelief the Hedgheoig and the Servant fighting back against the Valkyries that wanted them dead. A few minutes later, with the number of Valkyries that appeared to attack Mash and Sonic, it was uncountable to determine the number of Valkyries that seemed to kill Sonic and Mash but eventually, the invasion ends as the rifle transforms back into a shield.
"*Stops Running As The Tornado Dies Down* Now that was a run I haven't had in a while!" Sonic said
"All envoys have disappeared. The village remains unharmed! However,m this isn't the end for those things. We have to be ready for the next attack." Mash replied
"P-Please stop... Please don't fight with the other envoys. Once they take the flowers, the grown-ups are supposed to go through the gate. That's how it's supposed to be! That's how it's always been! Once they do, the giants show up and squish them in no time. I've seen it from the crack in the gate lots of times. Smoosh. They don't say anything. They can't do anything. But that's okay. I'm not afraid. I know I'll get to go to Valhalla as long as the Envoy is watching me! That's what the Goddess decided! There's nothing wrong with that. It might be just a teeny, tiny bit scary. But once I'm squished, it'll all be over, and I'll be fine. So–" Gerda said
"I can't," Sonic replied
"What?"
"Just because something like this is normal to you doesn't mean I'm not letting it happen. All of this isn't normal. I'm afraid that's not right. Gerda, you are a kind person, but my goal here is to protect everyone from being crushed by those giants or anything that can be in harm's way! What you saw right now was an example of that. I've been fighting for years now. My goal is to protect the innocent from danger. That still is happening as we speak." Sonic replied
"But why? This is how it's been since forever and ever..."
"Senpai can't say this without feeling bad, so I'll do it. No, Gerda, we won't be stopping anytime soon. Even if this is the way, things are done here... Even if it's what you all want... I... We...don't want to give up on anything, on anyone! Whether it's one life, or two, or millions... Wait a minute! Magical energy signals! Senpai, multiple enemies are diving toward us simultaneously! They're going to use all their Noble Phantasms at some powerful light shot toward the envoys... A gunshot!? No... It's cannon fire!"
Moments later, a cannon fires at the sky as the three cover themselves and hear a loud explosion above them.
"Well, hello there, people. How do you like my little cannon here!? C'est Magnifique, non? Haha! Nothing better than a fine gentleman like myself fighting off a swarm of angels!"
"Who are you?" Sonic asks
"H.A.! I should be asking the same thing to you as well, Animal! Never seen quite something like this before." The Man said
"I see. Though they were just mass-produced models, this one can blast away several at once. I also see he is working with the individual known as Mash Kyrielight and that unknown creature. Servants are beings that threaten the Goddess's rule. Thus, they are to be eradicated, not loved. Begin link. Begin link. All nearby envoys begin to link. None may defy Her..."
"Whoever this Goddess is, I feel bad for them since she has weak things like you who a Hedgehog like me will defeat!" Sonic said
"Hahaha! Nice talking, animal! It'll blow them out of the sky!"
"A Servant! And not one dependent on this Island's creation, either. He must be a Heroic Spirit from my Proper Human History!" Mash shock
"Really?"
"Trust me, as a hero who's gone from the top of the heap to the bottom of the barrel. I know a thing or two!"
"A hero? Who... are you...?" Gerda asks
"What's that, mademoiselle? I can tell you you will become a delicate beauty when you're older. Do you want to know who I am? Well, let's see... As long as someone out, there's got their hopes up or wishes things were different somehow. I'm the guy who makes all their dreams come true. Though, this time an animal. But anyway, m the guy who sees the bright stars in this Blue animal and his trusty partners as they fight against the world's fate! Lead the way, Hero! My cannon's yours to command!" Good Fellow said
"I don't know who you are. But you seem like great help! Thanks for the backup! Now, let's take down the rest of those angel things!" Sonic replied
"I like your style, animal! Damn right! Now let's go!"
Sonic dashes towards the Valkyries as he curls into a ball, and homing attacks several of them multiple times in the face, disrupting their vision of locating Sonic. Soon after, the Male Servant laughs to himself as he fires aims the giant cannon at the Valkyries and begins firing at them like a machine gun. The bullets hit the Valkyries in different parts of their bodies and dealt damage to them before firing cannons and exploding on impact, with the Valkyries vanishing soon after. Sonic looks back and notices several Valkyries heading toward him. As he smiles and backflips above them, missing the Hedgehog as they were now heading towards Mash, who was ready for the oncoming attack as she swings her swing across them, hitting all three at once and pushing towards the Servant, they fired more cannons at them, exploding and vanishing soon after. The Servant notices more Valkyries heading towards him and continues to fire down at them as explosions erupt everywhere in the sky. The battle between the Valkyries and the three Heroes dragged on for several minutes as hundreds of Valkyries were defeated in those minutes. Eventually, the Valkyries knew this would drag on and considering to retreat.
"*Firing Cannons At The Valkyries* HAHAHA! Yes, Animal! Together! We are unstoppable!" The Servant laughed
"The situation has worsened... Inexplicable. That Man's magical energy is not unlimited. He should have already run out after so many extensive bombardments, yet he remains operational. And that Blue animal, he is not a Servant, but yet still fights and pushes us back, disrupting our formation. How is this possible? Why do they still fight? Inexplicable. Inexplicable. Continued combat may result in indeterminate losses on our side. We must return to seek the Goddess's counsel. Retreat. Retreat."
"All remaining envoys appear to have left the area. Their magical energy signals have disappeared." Mash said
"*Protecting The Children* Alright! You did it, Sonic! You showed those Valkyries the powers of a Mobian!" Tails cheering Sonic on
"*Gives Thumbs Up To Tails* Thanks, Tails! Good job on protecting the children from this. We didn't want anyone to get hurt." Sonic said
"I... That light was...amazing... I've never seen so many amazing things... You're terrific...mister... I couldn't believe what I was seeing..."
"Haha. Nicely done, Animal! You had unique moves there! Using your actual body as a form of attack is something my men wouldn't do! I can't promote you to general at our first meeting, but I can at least give you a medal or two!" The Male Servant said
"I appreciate the offer, but I'll decline. Being rewarded for what I love to do isn't my cup of tea. Either way, thanks for the help! Mind telling us your name?" Sonic asks
"That's right, Maître du Chaldea from another world! I don't know much about this Island business and being transported to a different, stuff like that, but nobody messes with the people of Europe on my watch! I am Napoleon, an Archer! You're looking at the only hero of humanity in all of Scandinavia!" Napoleon introducing himself
*Later, With Sonic, Mash, Tails, And Napoleon*
"The fire on the mountains? Yeah, I don't know what's going on with that. The snow and ice at least make some sense, but the fire? I got nothin'." Napoleon said
"Really? Do you know what's going on with the ice that covers the mountains and the snow that covers all of Scandinavia?" Mash asks
"Scandivaia Island. Yeah, more or less. I might as well explain to you three. You three know about the myth of Ragnarök, right?" Napoleon said
"Just explain the important parts about this. Both Tails and my world's myth are completely different than this." Sonic
"Different worlds, eh? No wonder I had a feeling there was something different about this place—anyway, Ragnarok. Like the last war between the gods and giants still took place. The Age of Gods didn't end here for some reason. Thanks to that, civilization never developed, humans are still worshipping gods, and giants roam unchecked around the mountains. Things had remained the same as they were back in 1000 B.C. when the Norse Age of Gods was initially meant to end. Have you heard about "Goddess" this and "Goddess" that? Well, there you are. She didn't die in Ragnarök or turn into a Divine Spirit. She's remained intact to this day. she rules this Land, using her hundred envoys as a go-between to keep the giants and humans in check. She's the last god in Scandinavia and kept the Age of Gods going all this time." Napoleon said
"More like rules an Island. She doesn't rule what's outside this Island, only this place. Only the three of us know what's beyond this land." Sonic replied
"Interesting. It seems like there is no God or Goddess outside this place. I'm rather curious about that place outside this area. But either way, She lives in the northern part of the Oslo Fjord, in a castle in Proper Human History's old Oslo region. The Queen of Scandinavia, who covered half its mountains in frost... Scáthach-Skadi, Goddess of Snow and Ice. The last remaining deity and the one in charge of this entire Island, as you so put that way, Animal. We're not talking Servant here. We're talking full-blown, honest-to-goodness Goddess. I'm trying to get to her castle. That's probably where you'll find the Docter and that Servant, too." Napoleon said
"Wait, did you just say Scathach?!" Sonic suprise
"That's what I said," Napolean replied
"*Looking At The Chaldea Communicator* Scathach? But I see her name here; don't tell me there is another Scathach we're dealing with!" Sonic said
*At The Castle*
"Those giants do pack a punch. But they have yet to defeat Sonic and his friends. Can they go any faster?!" Eggman said
"I can make them attack or sleep with a single command. But even I cannot suppress their instincts. The giants who survived consume heat in any form they can. Though most of them remain in hibernation, they will awaken at the slightest hint of a new heat source and devour it immediately. The giants may have lived through the fires of Ragnarök as the humans, and I did, but they are a pitiful shadow of their former selves. Still, they were once proud, mighty souls. That is why I love them. For they, too, are living things here in Scandinavia. We gods may not always have seen eye to eye with giants, but they were still beings on par with us. The heat of the flames scorched them all. It twisted the frost giants, the mountain giants... No giant escaped its wrath. Now, they have become so twisted that they are little more than walking calamities. They bring nothing but death and destruction, just like fire. So I shall keep them in check myself. With the masks born of my own hands, I can unite all the giants under my rule! For I carry the noble blood of Ymir in my icy veins!"
"..."
*Back With Sonic*
"So you two knew Scáthach from Proper Human History, huh? Unfortunately, this version of her is not the person you know. She's not a Divine Spirit–not a god that has lost its body and dissolved back into nature. She's an actual, living goddess! Scáthach-Skadi, Goddess and queen, has been around for thousands of years since the Age of Gods. A fusion of the Norse Goddess Skadi and the Celtic warrior Scáthach." Napoleon explained
"Well, that explains a lot," Sonic commented.
"She rules over humans and giants alike. Her goal seems to be for everything to remain as it is. Word has it that Scáthach-Skadi loves all forms of life. That's what I've heard, anyway. Do you know what I mean? We can reason with her. As long as we don't openly declare war on her or anything, she won't see us as enemies. Guaranteed." Napoleon said
"That plan was already tarnished not too long ago. Remember her Army?" Sonic said
"Trust me. It will take more than that to ruffle this queen's feathers. I know that sounds pretty weird, but it's true. She doesn't call herself the mother of Scandinavia for nothing." Napoleon replied
"Mother?"
" I can understand why you'd be nervous. Especially after that considerable dispute we had with the envoys. But that's as much my fault as it is yours! Sorry for getting you two caught up in that!" Napoleon apologized
"We were bound to be attacked at some point, so all is good, Napole," Sonic replied
"Napole, huh? Nice name you came up with right now, Animal. Thanks! That makes me feel a lot better!" Napoleon said
"I did hear that you were quite the fan of James Macpherson's Ossian, which had epic poems similar to the Norse Poetic Edda, but that's all. You must have acquired your knowledge of Scandinavia after you materialized." Mash said
"Haha, well, sure. I materialized here just a little bit before you all showed up. That's why I happen to know so much. I've been getting all this information while traveling on foot and on some skis I made. As to the source of my information, well...I think I'll hold off on that for now. An air of mystery makes hotties like me even hotter, don't you think?"
"Oh boy..."
"Let me make one thing clear, Animal. This here Heroic Spirit's on humanity's side. I'm your ally. I came here to help you. Just make sure you don't forget that. Long as you don't, we could even make a temporary contract if you want." Napoleon said
"Sounds good to me, Napole. Welcome to the team!" Sonic replied
"Now that you are officially at our party. Remember how Gerda said that, at least in Village 23, an envoy wouldn't come again for another year?" Mash asks
"I can't be sure it'll be another year. The envoys aren't allowed to sacrifice humans on any day besides the one that goddess Scáthach–Skadi ordained. So they must've brought a bunch of them along to ensure the ritual didn't go off the rails again. Back at another village, I caught one of them trying to open those giant gates and sniped them. There was just the one back then, probably because they didn't expect anyone to attack them, but that wasn't the case with that last village. Remember them saying something about shared records? Well, the data from the one I sniped got shared with the rest. They responded by shoring up their numbers in preparation for another attack. The envoys don't care about the queen's philanthropy. They're machines. No reasoning with them. The ones we ran into just now are mass-produced dolls that Queen Scáthach-Skadi made by infusing them with her magical energy. The Queen here is merciful, but the whole place is lousy with powerful, vicious enemies. A shitstorm of envoys... That Island's Servant with his demonic sword... And almost no allies for us. Even with the odds stacked against us, are you two still ready to fight?" Napoleon asks
"Not with this device in my hand! The Servants are waiting to be for any moment danger arrives!" Sonic replied
"Hahaha! You're already preparing for stuff like this, Animal! I quite enjoy it! There might only be so many categories of things I can help with, but if there are two things I do best, it's fighting hard and winning! If that's what you're looking for, your search is over! 'Sides, Scandinavia's still part of Europe, and nobody's better at winning in Europe than I am!" Napolean said
"I like your confidence, Big guy! *Fist Bumps Napoleon* Hehe!" Sonic said
*Back At The Castle*
"It seems that creature join forces with...that man. They destroyed many of my daughters–the envoys modeled after the Valkyries." Scathach-Skadi said
"Just say the word, and I'll kill them. Even a demonic sword gets rusty if you don't use it now and then." Sigurd replied
"Yes, that would be delightful to see," Eggman said
"What have I told you? You will kill no one. They may meet their end at the hands of giants or the hands of other imitation Valkyries... but that is simply the way of the world; it is as natural as footprints on morning snow. There is no need to involve your demonic sword. Besides...did I not tell you I would love them? Be that as it may, my question remains the same when dealing with others besides myself. That is... do I kill them or love them? If I decide to kill them, I do so immediately. I halt them, freeze them, and destroy them. If I choose to love them, I do so until their dying breath. I nurture them and stay with them as they die. All humans are my children, as are all giants. Do I kill them or love them? My enemies, I kill; my children, I love. That is who I am: the queen, the mother of Scandinavia. Every life that grows here in Scandinavia is my child." Scathach-Skadi said
"Well, I'll at least agree with Sonic about this. We are not a part of this and have no interest in being locked like this." Dr. Eggman thought
"Valkyrie Thrúd, reporting for duty. Wonderful to see you in good health, Scáthach-Skadi, Our Goddess and Protector. And you, Lady Ophelia, Her sworn ally." Thrud said
"Have I not told you to call me "Mother"?"
"Now. What is your command? We shall obey any order you give us. For you are our master, Scáthach-Skadi." Thrud asks
"After all these years, you still refuse to behave like my daughter. No matter how often I see it, it still manages to impress me. Tell me, my beloved daughter. As the leader of my hundred-odd envoys, what do you make of the incident in Village 23? I know you are obedient, but despite what that knight says..." Scathach-Skadi asks.
"Of course, if you say these transgressors will be permitted to remain alive, we shall act accordingly. I do think they can be left alone... As for the destroyed envoys, they were mass-produced units with no ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Still, based on what I've seen in our shared records, I don't think the three of us will need to respond. Even if circumstances change, and we need to deal with them, I think the giants... or a mass-produced unit's self-destruct function should be sufficient. I am told the transgressors are an animal and one who is half-human, half-Heroic Spirit. There is no need for the three of us to confront such a familiar foe."
"I doubt they will make it here by tonight...but I expect we will have guests by tomorrow evening. No doubt they will encounter more of the giants that roam my world and destroy more imitation Valkyries before then. I do wonder, though, if they will survive long enough for us to meet." Scathach-Skadi said
"You are underestimating Sonic's objective. He could come here at any time!" Eggman said
"Oh, and how can that be? Does that creature have something that I should know of?" Scathach-Skadi asks
To Be Continue...
"Next Time: Gotterdammerung." Tails As The Narrator
