Episode 15: Journey to the East Part 1: Endless Reach of Fate
At Stormtop Village, Sonic and Shadow already find themselves fighting the Spider Ninjas from the Gossamer Clan.
"You guys really know how to make a tourist feel welcome!" Sonic says, and kicks one of the ninjas in the face.
Shadow then punches another Ninja in the fast, "We have no time for jokes. We arrived here a few hours ago and we already got attacked by the ninjas and few of our friends including Eve were abducted by them."
"I doubt they'll do anything to them, especially Eve. She's been raising one of their own," Sonic says.
Just then, Li Yuen, the village Elder calls out, "Sonic! Shadow! To the Temple of the Golden Lotus!"
Soon, the two hedgehogs arrive in the matter of seconds, making Li Yuen reply, "Hurry?"
"Sorry pal. 'Hurry' is too slow for me," Sonic says.
Li Yuen closes the door as he says, "The Temple is meant for welcoming people, but for now it might keep the Gossamer Clan out long enough for us to formulate a plan."
Just then, Maria, Jazz, Sonia, Topaz, Dulcy and the Shijin Warriors walk towards them in concern.
"Sorry about the unwelcome guys. This isn't how we plan on finding one of the Clans," Dulcy says.
"It's not your fault Dulcy, we didn't expect the Ninja Clans to find us this fast," Sonic says.
"But Sally, Ken, Tails, Eve, and Shun were abducted by the ninjas. We gotta rescue them somehow," Sonia says.
Sonic says, "You can say that again. This is one surprise that I was expecting when we first arrived here."
Flashback: Hours Ago
Sonic, Eve, and the Freedom Fighters and Team Dark are still on the plan. In Ken and Sonia's case, the clouds have reached the Dragon Kingdom.
"There's Stormtop Village, we're here," Sonia says.
Maria looks and says, "Wow! It's so pretty."
"Yeah. It looks like a Japanese Style Village," Topaz says.
"I think that's the idea, Topaz," Eve says.
Sally notices four figures waving and recognizes them, "Look, there's Dulcy and the others."
"Alright, I'll make a landing outside of the village," Tails says.
"I'll show you a safe place to land," Ken says.
"Thanks," Tails replies.
Tails then follows Ken to a safe place to land that is just outside of the village. After the plan has landed and everyone jumps off, they are greeted by the rest of the Shijin Warriors, the Freedom Fighters of the Dragon Kingdom.
"So Dulcy, it's great to see you again," Sonic says.
"We really miss you," Eve says.
"I miss you guys too. It's been a long time since we've seen each other," Dulcy says.
She then leaves to Eve to see Shun in her hands, "Hi little guy. He's really cute."
"Yeah. You remember Shun, right," Eve replies.
"I remember him. You told me about him and sent me pictures," Dulcy says.
Sally says, "We're glad to see you and your team again, and thanks for helping us."
"Glad we can help," Cinder happily says.
Jian turns to Ken, "I'm guessing the Iron Queen is a lot tougher huh?"
"It's a bit of an understatement, she managed to take over New Mobotropolis, but we managed to evacuate all the citizens. However, most of the Freedom Fighters, Chaotix, and Team Dark remain inside," Ken says.
"That doesn't sound good," Bunker says.
"It's not," Topaz says.
"Who are you?" Bunker asks.
"Right. I'm Agent Topaz of G.U.N. The Black hedgehog next to me is Shadow the Hedgehog, we work together," Topaz says.
Dulcy walks to Shadow and says, "Wow Eve, I'm guessing this is your brother."
"Yep. He sure is. Say hi to Dulcy," Eve says with a smile.
Shadow turns his eyes to Dulcy and says, "Hello." then remains silent.
Dulcy turns to Eve, "Not much of a talker is he."
"Shades is a bit of a grumpy guy, but he's a good guy," Sonic says.
Then nudges Shadow's shoulder, "Right shades."
Shadow crosses his arms and turns his head away with a huff.
Eve then turns to the blonde hedgehog, "And this is Maria."
"Nice to meet you," Maria says.
"So this is Maria, it's nice to meet you. Eve has told me and the others all about you in her letters," Dulcy says.
Maria turns to Eve, and the black hedgehog says, "Yep everything."
"It's nice to meet you. I'm guessing you have heard of this, but it's nice to meet a Robotnik that isn't bent on world domination," Jian says.
Maria blushes, "Thank you. Of course, I don't plan on acting like Eggman, I'm planning on becoming a Freedom Fighter."
"That's the spirit," Jian says.
Just then, Le Yuen, the village Elder and Li Moon, his granddaughter arrive to greet them. Eve, Tails, and Sonia bow in respect.
"Hello Li Yuen. Li Moon, it's good to see you again," Sonia says.
Li Yuen, and Li Moon bow as well.
"Hello again friends, thank you for coming to help us," Li Yuen says.
"We should also be taking you for assisting us in finding the clans," Sally says.
"Yes, but they won't be easy to find," Li-Moon says.
Bunker says, "Maybe we can show them around a bit. They didn't get to see much the last time they came."
"I like it," Cinder happily says.
Soon enough, the residents give the Freedom Fighters and Team Dark the tour of the city. Soon, they arrive at a temple.
"... And this is the Temple of the Golden Lotus." Li Yuen says.
"Cool," Sonic says.
"I'll say! What's the story of this place, Mr. Li?" Tails asks.
Li Yuen explains, "It dates back before recorded time, my young friend. It is said this land was the birthplace of the dragons. They were a young race, and they misused their immense power. They warred with each other horribly for generations. In time they saw the ruination that their fighting brought. Ashamed, they vowed to leave the land in peace and settle throughout the world."
Then walks ahead, "Before they were defeated, they left the prophecy of a time when turmoil would return to divide the land, and the Great Golden Lotus King would bring peace and unity in the Dragon Kingdom."
Li Yuen points ahead and whatever it is has taken everyone by surprise.
"Sonic! That's…" Tails says, shocked.
"No way…" Sonic says with the same expression.
To their surprise, the middle of the temple has a statue of a monkey that is holding a staff and the base of the statue has lotus blossoms on it and lit candles around it.
"Wow! It looks a lot like you, Ken," Maria says, amazed.
Embarrassed, Ken asks, "You really think so?"
"Yeah. There is a strong resemblance, do you think you could be the one from the prophecy?" Eve question.
"I… I don't really know," Ken says.
Dulcy places her claw on Ken's shoulder, "Hey cheer up, we know you're a little uneasy about it, but remember, you're still the leader of the Shijin Warriors, and you got great friends like us."
"Thank you, Dulcy," Ken says.
"Still, I'm surprised you never told us about this," Sonia says.
"Well, I still felt a bit confused when I first found out, and I guess I try not to think too much about it," Ken says.
"Alright, let's get on to the important matter. How are we going to find any of the ninjas if we don't know where to look," Topaz says.
Sally then walks outside as she says, I'm sure we'll find some….Huh?"
Before she can finish, a sticky web coils around Sally and pulls her away.
"Sally!" Eve panics running outside with Shun in her arms.
Everyone hurries outside to see one of the Spider Ninjas have Sally tied up.
"It looks like we don't have to worry about finding them," Ken says.
Before the group can do anything, the Ninjas come at them really fast. Sonic spin dashes one of them and Shadow punches the other.
Eve turns to the others, "Sonia, get the others inside!"
"Right," Sonia says.
Sonia, help Topaz and Maria get inside the temple. Before Eve can get inside, one of the spiders catches Eve in a web like rope and pulls her away.
"Eve!" Topaz panics.
Eve yelps and ends up being caught by one of the adult spider ninjas with Shun in her arms. Soon enough, Tails and Ken end up being captured as well. Soon, the four spiders carry them away.
"Hey, give them back!" Sonic calls out.
But the spider ninjas are not going to let them pass. Sonic and Shadow figure that the ninjas aren't going to let them pass.
Flashback Ends: The Temple of the Golden Lotus
Li Yuen sighs and says, "While we are safe for now, I'm afraid the others have been captured. I apologize. I have been a poor steward."
"No sweat it, pops. We'll think of a way to make this work," Sonic says.
"Easier said than done, they're still out there and they must have taken the others to their Clan's palace or somewhere by now," Topaz says.
"Reax, we'll rescue the others and find those Spiders ninjas, I'm sure things will work out for us,"
"I envy your confidence young man," Li Yuen says.
"Thanks, but the windows were cleaned yesterday. Come back next week, okay?" Sonic says, then looks up to see the ninjas coming in through it.
But the ninjas jump inside the temple.
Li Yuen sternly says, "This is a sacred place! You cannot describe it with violence!"
Suddenly Shadow spin dashes one of the ninjas and slams them to the wall. Shadow has his arm pressed against the ninja's chest.
"I just said…!" Li Yuen says.
Sonic walks over, "We're not going to fight though. We're going to have a friendly conversation."
Then turns to the ninja, "Right?"
Then Sonic talks to the ninja, "Eve and I tangled with some of you guys in the past, and I'm noting a serious lack of weaponry or webbing. You're pulling your punches, why?"
"The Master learned of your arrival and decreed you would meet her. There was no guarantee you would come willingly or peacefully," The ninjas says.
"So attacking and kidding napping was the best you could come up with to get cooperation? What's more, you kidnapped my sister and a baby that was actually part of your clan," Shadow sternly says. Then let the ninja go.
"You couldn't just import a chili dog recipe?" Sonic questions.
Then ninja rubs their chin, "It is not our place to question the master."
"I suppose we can't really question it," Shadow says.
"Well then, looks like we'll be seeing you later," Sonic says.
"You're simply going with them? Just like that?" Li Yuen says, confused.
"Sure. At this rate, what's the worst that can happen?" Sonic says.
"I can name a lot of things," Sonia says.
"Okay. Topaz, Mara will stay here with Dulcy and the Shijin Warriors. Sonia, you're with me and Shadow," Sonic says.
Everyone agrees to the idea, but Jazz flies towards them.
She says, "Chao Chao Chao."
"Okay Jazz, you can come too," Sonic says.
"Chao," Jazz says with a smile.
With that, Sonic, Shadow, Sonia, and Jazz follow the Spider Ninjas to where their master is. They hope Eve and the others aren't in too much danger. Soon enough, the three hedgehogs arrive at a tall Japanese style tower.
"Wow! Nice place you got here," Sonic says.
"We can worry about that later," Sonic says.
Soon enough, the three arrive to see Ken, Sally, and Tails are still tied up and guarded by the Spider Ninjas.
Sonic stops and says, "Hey guys! Sorry it took so long to get back to you."
"Sonic!" Tails says, relieved.
The Spider Ninja turns to Sonic, "You have agreed to meet the Master with obedience and humility?"
"Yeah, because those are totally my key traits. Let my friends go and we'll hear what she has to say without a fuss," Sonic says.
"Very well," The ninja says.
The other ninja then cut the ropes, seeing the three free.
Sonic reaches to Tails and asks, "How are you guys? Did they rough you up too much?"
"No, we're fine!" Tails says.
"Speak for yourself. Being beaten so easily is only half as embarrassing as having to be saved by you," Ken says.
Sonia says, "What matters is that you all are all safe and sound?"
Shadow looks around and notices, "Hold on, where are Eve and Shun?"
"They've been taken inside their palace. They decided to have the three of us wait out here while Eve and Shun were taken inside," Sally says.
"Why?" Sonia asks.
"They didn't say," Sally says.
"Well then, I say that it's time for us to meet the woman in charge," Sonic says.
The group walked inside to meet the Bride of Endless Reach of the Gossamer Clan. Like the ninja of the clan, she is wearing a black mask, but she has a red and black web symbol on the forehead, and a black and red kimono. What's more Eve is sitting next to her with Shun sitting on her lap.
Sonic says, "Hey Eve, glad to see you're okay."
"Hi Sonic. Shadow. Everyone, I'm glad you guys are here," Eve says.
Jazz flies to Eve and hugs her too.
Eve smiles and says, "And you too, Jazz."
"We're just glad you're okay," Sonia says.
Sonic asks, "So are you going to introduce her to us."
"Um, I think it's best if she would," Eve says.
The lead Spider says, "I am the Bride of the Endless Reach. Bride of the house of the Gossamer Clan. She who knows the course of fate, she who can obtain all things."
Sally places her clutch hand on the palm of her other hand and bow. Ken. Sonia, and Shadow do the same.
"I am Princess Sally Alicia Acorn, Daughter of King Nigel Acorn and Leader of the Freedom Fighters of New Mobotropolis," Sally says.
"I'm Sonia Hedgehog, one of the Freedom Fighters of New Mobotropolis," Sonia says.
"Shadow the Hedgehog," Shadow says.
Then Ken says, "I'm Monkey Khan."
Sally whispers, nudging Ken's shoulder, "Oh no, you don't. We need you at the top of your game, too."
Ken then continues, "The King of the Free people. Appointed defender of the people of the Dragon Kingdom without a clan to call their own. And Leader of the Shijin Warriors."
"Yo, I'm Sonic," Sonic says, casual.
"My name is Tails. I'm with him," Tails says.
Annoyed, Sally says, "Guys! Would you please…!"
Byt the Bride of Endless Reach interrupts, "Ah, the Acorn Princess. We would very much like to hear your and Eve Hedgehog's account of one of our daughters, Uma Arachnis."
"Um, of course," Sally says.
"Well, we don't have much details, but a while ago Uma dropped young Shun at Eve's home, and sadly passed away due to being poisoned. We weren't able to find her body, but wanted Eve to watch over him and the Sword of Acorn," Sally says.
"And then?" The Bride asks.
"Well, I guess after that, six of her children took the Sword of Acorn for Naugus who for some reason was employed. They wouldn't have been trapped by Eggman if I didn't save them, since well, I know they're practically the only family, Shun had. I didn't want him to lose his siblings like how he lost his mom. We could only do so much for them, since they worked in secret," Eve says.
"I see. What was the ultimate fate of the Sword of Acorns?" The Bride asks.
"It was destroyed before it could fall into the wrong hands," Sally says.
"The bride stands and says, "As it was spun, so it has been done! Our heart breaks for the lost of our daughter, but it mended anew with news of their fate fulfilled!" The Bride answers.
"This is all very fascinating, really, but could you maybe have it make some sense to the uninitiated?" Sonic asks.
"Uma, and indeed, all of the Arachne have always been our most gifted readers," The Bride says.
She walks down the stairs with Eve and the others behind.
As they follow, the Bride says, "She saw that the last relics of the source of all would fall into the hands of evil and ensure they were destroyed, even after her death."
"Yuh-uhu. About making this all make sense…?" Sonic says, still confused.
Suddenly, everyone arrives to see a large spider web that takes the group by surprise.
The Bride says, "You are the first outsiders to look upon the Web of Fate, woven by our first bride, its strands foretell of what is to come… if you know how to read it. It tells of our future prosperity. It set Uma on her mission. It even foretold your coming here."
"So you mean, it even foretold Uma leaving Shun with Eve and to make sure she witnessed the destruction of the sword," Shadow questions.
"Yes. It did," The Bride says.
Suddenly, Ken steps forward, "Now wait just a minute!"
The group turns to Ken, and they see he isn't pleased.
"If you can foresee all this, why have you been fighting? Why have my people been made to suffer if you're already so well informed? Why aren't you sharing your wisdom with the rest of the Dragon Kingdom?" Ken questions.
"Ken, I'm sure she has a good reason," Sonia whispers.
The Bride turns to Ken and walks towards him, "It is our web, woven by our bride and read by our chosen. It is not something for the rest of the Dragon Kingdom. The web of fate tells of the key moment to come, but not the road to take. We cannot use it for something so base as day-to-day tactic. Furthermore, we believe this 'King' born in another land, powered by Robotnik's gifts, and given title only by clanless people is forgetting he is talking to the Gossamer clan's Bride."
"If you think that I'm just going to…!" Ken angrily says.
But Sally fakes coughs and says, "If I may…? The Dragon Kingdom is a massive land. The unorganized 'Free People' can live alongside the other clans comfortably, right?"
"Of course, all they want is to live in peace," Ken says, calming down.
Then Sally turns to the Bride, "And you just said that the web doesn't show you the way to each point ahead. If that's the case, couldn't there always be a peaceful option?"
"Perhaps," The Bride says.
Sally then asks, "Wouldn't it be worth the effort, even if it isn't the fastest route? Your clan has already lost Uma, and her children joined up with you seeking a home, and the youngest member who never got to see his homeland until now."
"That… that is very true…" The Bride answers, reluctantly.
Then turns to Ken, with a firm expression, "But would the King of the Free People recognize the Gossamer Clan and its land? Or would we be opening ourselves up to a new 'King of the Five Houses'?"
Ken calmly says, "The People only want peace, as… as King of the Free People, I would be sure to honor your clan and its claim. You have my word of honor."
"You think she's going to just buy 'your word'?" Sonic questions.
Ken angrily turns to Sonic, "I don't know how you do things over there, but in the Dragon Kingdom one's 'word of honor' is sacred."
"Alright! Alright! Consider me culturally enlightened now," Sonic says, holding his hand in front in defense.
Ken then turns to the Bride of Endless Reach, and says, "I'm all there is to fight for these lands. The Shijin Warriors are doing the best they can to remain the peace, but if there's going to be peace, your clan is going to have made the first gesture."
"We shall consult the web and see what it directs," The Bride says as she weaves the web.
Everyone looks at the Bride with curious looks and wonders what will happen.
Ken whispers to the others, "We're in the heart of their fortress. If she says no, we're in deep trouble."
"In that case, we'll keep the hundred limb brigade at bay while Tails get Sally to safety," Sonic says, ruffling Tails' head.
Tails gulp in reply.
"If it comes to that, we stick together to the end," Sally says.
"Let's see what happens before we do anything," Sonia whispers.
Just then, the Bride of Endless Reach says, "The path you ask of us is fraught with peril, and I see dark days to come if we choose it…"
She then turns her head to the group, "…but it should ensure peace and prosperity for all clans and all people in the end. We shall reject the Iron Dominion and you shall have our support. You have my word of honor."
The group is relieved to hear it.
"Score one for the good guys," Sonic says, giving Tails a hi five.
"Yeah!" Tails adds.
Sally and Ken bow in respect.
Sally says, "Thank you, on behalf of the Republic of Acorn."
"We will be watching you with great interest, King of the Free People," The Bride says, bowing in respect.
Then the Bride of Endless Reach walks to Eve and looks down to Shun.
"And we wish you farewell young Shun, we hope you continue to live with your guardian," The Bride says.
Shun smiles imitates the bow of respect the Bride performs earlier.
Later in the night, everyone is now in Li Yuen's home having dinner after the long day.
Sonic says, "And then Khan gets all in her face, and I'm thinking 'Great way to get us into another big fight, Monkey boy.'"
Soon, Tails, Topaz, Maria, and even Jazz begin laughing in reply, even Ken's comrades are laughing. Sally, Eve, Sonia and Shadow simply have their dinner, while Ken is unamused.
Sonia turns to Ken, "So Ken, it seems like you've just about accepted yourself as the King of the Free People."
"Yeah, yeah… I suppose I have to," Ken says.
Ken and Sonia lean close to each other with smiles on their face. Li Moon giggles while Sally and the others think it's very sweet.
Tails turns to Sonic in concern, "Sonic, do you think everyone is doing okay back home?"
"Don't worry about them. I'm sure Amy and everyone have everything under control with Nicole's help," Sonic says.
"I know, but I'm still worried about Cosmo and my Parents. They are able to get to Lower Mobius safely, but I'm also worried about the rest of our friends who are still in the city," Tails says.
"I'm sure they're fine. They're doing the best they can on their end, and we're already starting to make a little progress on our end. We still need to find the other four other clans," Eve says.
Shadow turns to Eve and asks, "By the way Eve, Sally told us you were taken inside to meet with the clan's leader. Did you have an idea why?"
"Yeah. What was that about?" Tails asks.
"Well…" Eve says.
Flashback: In the House of the Gossamer Clan
Eve is being escorted by two of the Spider ninjas to the chamber where the Bride of Endless Reach is. The leader turns to see Eve with young Shun in her arms.
The Bride says, "Thank you for bringing her. You may leave us."
The two ninjas bow in respect and leave the room. Eve feels a little nervous about meeting the leader of the clan.
"Um hello. My name is Eve the Hedgehog. One of the Freedom Fighters of New Mobotropolis," Eve says, and bows to show the leader respect.
Then says, "And this is Shun."
"Yes. I have heard a bit about you from the young Arachnis, Uma's children," The Bride says.
"I… I guess Chang and the others told you about us, huh," Eve replies, confused.
"Yes. And another method that will be shared when your brother, Sonic arrives," The Bride says.
"How did you…?" Eve asks.
The Bride holds her hand up, "That will be explained another time. I suppose one of the questions you wish to ask is about your mother, Obsidian. I can assure you that she is unharmed and that she is with what's left of her clan."
"My mom? You know where she is?" Eve asks, surprised.
"Yes. I am the one who escorted her myself to what's left of her people," The Bride says.
"Um yeah. I know it's much to ask, but why did you want to see me, and where is my mom now?" Eve asks.
"There is much to tell, child. Your brother and friends will arrive so let's begin our discussion," The Bride says.
End of Flashback: Li Yuen's home
"The Bride of Endless Reach explained to me about how our mom has been taken to the Dragon Kingdom to the village where the remaining on her clan live. According to the Bride of Endless Reach, she said that our mother was on the other side of the Dragon Kingdom, close to the mountains. Its clan resides to where the Dragons nesting ground used to live before the disaster happened," Eve says.
"That's good to know," Sonic says.
"Yes. Of course, she did explain to me about the Hedgehog Clans and the Gossamer Clan's history. Like mom told us, they were allies, in fact, my mom and her well grandmother were friends with each other. They didn't explain much, but I suspect they figured what was going to happen with mom's betrothed, but couldn't say a word about it. Not even mom knows about the Web of Fates, but she said that mothers understand that some of their secrets must be kept. Before you guys arrived, she explained that my mother actually agreed to be the Bride of Swift Wind and part of the Iron Dominion, as long as she doesn't harm the clan, and her family. Of course, there's not much promise because I always fight against them, "Eve says.
"That's a lot to take in, but at least we know where your mom is," Sally says.
"Me too, but it looks like we have another clan to see if we can help break from the Iron Dominion, I don't think it's going to be a problem," Eve says.
"Yeah. She's your mom, how can she refuse," Sonic says.
"We're just glad to hear that you're safe," Tails says.
Li Moon walks to Tails and asks, "More tea?"
"Yes please, thank you, Li Moon," Tails says.
"My please," Li Moon says, and pours the kettle.
Suddenly, an arrow is launched through the window and strikes through the kettle and at the wall. The kettle shatters as water is splattered all over Li Moon, Tails, Eve, Shun, Jazz, and Maria.
Li Yuen walks to Li Moon and asks, "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine, grandfather. Just a little wet," Li Moon says.
"Sheesh, Shun and Jazz are soaked," Eve says. Then brings out a napkin and wipes the team from Shun and Jazz.
Shadow gives Maria a towel so she can dry off. Tails then shakes the tea off of him, but it's getting on to Sonic.
Sonic yelps, "Gah! Tails! Cut it out!"
Ken quickly gets up, "Hurry! Maybe we can still catch whoever that was before…!"
"They'd be long gone by now, Ken. If they meant to hurt us, they'd do more than destroy the kettle," Sally says, walking to the arrow that is actually a shuriken.
She takes it off of the wall and notices a paper wrapped on it. Tails then uses his twin tail to dry the others off.
"Well, they ticked me off. That was good tea," Sonic saya, annoyed.
Then asks, "What's the note say?"
Sally reads the paper.
Ken looks at the paper and says, "It's from the Leader of the Local Yagyu Encampment. He wants to meet us."
"Word travels fast around here," Sally says.
Sonic smirks and says, "That suits me just fine! We've already gotten one clan to break away. Tomorrow, we'll take on the Yagyu Clan, and we can also get Rouge back."