Neo Metal Saga Episode 1: The Time from Hardship

Days have passed since the incident with the Death Egg and everyone does their best to fix the city and help many heal after the destruction the Death Egg and his gigantic robotic Sonic has caused. At Acorn Castle, all the Freedom Fighters decide to hold an important meeting to discuss the latest Eggman attack, safety of the citizens, and what needs to be done about it. Even Elias and King Acorn are there to discuss what needs to be done.

"Alright everyone, we know that it's almost over six days since the Death Egg incident. Thanks to our efforts, the Death Egg has received some damage, causing Eggman to retreat for the time being. Sadly, it has come with reminders of the attack," Sally says.

Sally mentions the condition Eve is in. Luckily, there doesn't seem to be any after effects after Eve's arm and dreadlock become roboticized, but it still holds a reminder of Eve's sacrifice and determination to save everyone. Still, they plan to keep an eye on her in case anything happens. Including the damages to the city that Eggman caused.

"So far, there haven't been many reports of Dr. Eggman or his Dark Egg Legion so we should make sure to keep our eye out for any signs of Eggman or Dark Legion activity," Sally says.

Sonic stands up, "Why are we just sitting here? We should be searching for Eggman."

"That may be alright on paper, but without a solid lead on him, not to mention him having his robots and his Death Egg floating about, it's proven to be very dangerous. We'll be risking our necks, "Elias says.

"The best we can do is to continue fixing the damages. Luckily, Nicole is able to rebuild most of it, but it's taking a lot out of her," Sonia says.

"And everyone in the city is doing their best to repair the damages the Robot Eggman sent caused," Cosmo adds.

"So it will be best that until we know what Eggman is planning, that we must do what we can to repair the city and help those who have been injured," King Acorn says.

"That would be for the best. Until Eggman decides to pull another one of his plans for conquering Mobius," Manic says.

Then Rotor turns to Eve, "How's that arm of yours doing?"

"Okay, I guess," Eve answers, looking at her robotic arm, "But it's going to take some time to get used to it."

"Don't worry sugar, I've been like this for a long time, I'm sure you'll feel comfortable eventually. I even learned a few tricks with my mechanical arm and legs," Bunnie says.

"Thank," Eve says.

Then sadly says, "It's too bad that the reverse roboticizer has been destroyed."

"True, but we still have the blueprint designs. It will take some time and work, but Nicole, Sonia, Tails, Manic, and I will do our best to rebuild it and get you back to full condition," Rotor says.

"Thanks guys," Eve says.

She then sighs and says, "But I think having a robotic arm and dreadlock is going to take time to get used to. I look a bit like Lien-Da like this."

"Don't worry sis, the Freedom Fighters are going to help, after all you're one too and we stick together," Sonic says.

Eve then nods her head in reply.

"I agree with Sonic that we should find Eggman," Amy says.

Then she raises her hammer, "I've got an extra large hammer with his name on it."

"Best not to risk it," Sonia says.

"Even if we could, we don't know where Eggman is going to strike. Besides, he'll be out for a while considering how much damage he took, despite being airborne," Sally says.

"Yeah. That World Roboticizer did a number to his Death Egg with that Chao Spear," Manic says.

"And you used a lot of your Chaos Energy than you usually do," Sonia says.

"Okay, I kind of got a bit carried away, but what matters is that we defeated Eggman for the time being, and that we need to prepare for what he has next," Eve says.

"That's correct, but for now, let's focus on the repairs we need for the city, and to the aircrafts," Sally says.

Then Sally brings out her computer, "Nicole, can you set up a diagram of the city and check to see how the repairs are doing?"

"Of course Sally," Nicole answers.

Sometime later, after the meeting, Sonic, Eve, and the others are at the Hedgehog residence with Eve's birth family and her adopted family, and Maria. Sonic, Manic, Sonia, and Maria are playing with Jazz, baby Ichigo, Dimitri, and little Shun. Eve however is sitting on the couch close by and is looking out the window. Then looks at her new robotic arm and dreadlock. Even though Eve feels fine, she feels very uneasy about it.

Sonia turns to Eve and asks, "Eve, are you okay?"

"Oh, I'm okay, just thinking," Eve says.

Then says, "Especially since Sally wants me to rest and not help with the cleanup."

"That because you used a lot of your Chaos Energy and with you being exposed to the roboticizer's effect, it took a lot out of you," Sonic says.

"I know. I just feel a bit well, deadweighted right now," Eve says.

"You're no deadweight. You're a real trooper. You not only busted Eggman's roboticizer, but you also saved the entire city from destruction," Manic says.

"That deserved a good long rest," Sonic says.

"I guess. I just have a lot on my mind, and…" Eve says.

Then looks at her arm, "I'm worried about what Shadow might think."

"I have to agree. I can imagine Shadow will be very upset," Maria says sadly.

"No kidding. If Shadow finds out, he'll try to go to Eggman himself and destroy the Death Egg," Sonic says.

"And destroy Eggman as well," Manic says.

"Wouldn't put it past him," Sonia says.

"Um yeah," Eve says, sounding worried.

She stands up and says, "Listen, I'm just going to step out a little, I like to go out on a walk."

"Okay sis, but take it easy, okay," Sonic says.

"Alright," Eve says with a nod.

Then Eve walks out of the house.

Sonic sighs, "I think Eve is still bothered by what happened. Even though she knew what she did was the ring thing."

"Yeah. Eve seems pretty bummed," Manic says.

"I wish there's a way we can help her," Maria says.

"Hmm," Sonic says.

He stands up and says, "I'll be right back. I need to make a quick trip."

"Of course Sonic," Sonia says.

Then Sonic speeds off and reaches Freedom HQ.

He reaches for the computer and says, "Yo Nicole!"

Nicole appears on the screen and says, "Hello Sonic."

"Hey Nicole, think you can patch me through to Angel Island, I like to talk to the Chaotix. Can you get in touch with Knuckles? And ask him to open a Warp Ring to Freedom HQ," Sonic says.

"Certainly," Nicole says.

And in the matter of seconds, "Done."

"Thanks Nicole," Sonic says.

With a sad expression, Nicole asks, "Is Eve doing alright?"

"She's doing okay, but still a bit overwhelmed and tired from what happened with the Death Egg. That's why I want to talk to Knuckles and the others, figure they can help Eve feel better," Sonic says.

Soon, the Warp Ring opens from behind him.

"Maybe, but it might take time," Nicole says and looks sad.

"Yeah. I do hope some support can help Eve feel better," Sonic says.

With that, Sonic walks through the Warp Ring to see Knuckles, Julie- Su, Vector, Charmy, and Saffron.

Seeing him, Julie-Su says, "There he is. Am I done playing operator now?"

"Sure. Thanks 'Su," Knuckles says.

"Just the group I wanted to see. Where are Espio, Mighty and Ray?" Sonic says.

"Espio is training right now," Vector says.

"Mighty and Ray are actually gone for the time being and took the Warp Ring in case they need it," Knuckles says.

Charmy happily holds out the letter, "... and send us a letter through it!"

"Oh, I was hoping to have the entire group here," Sonic says.

"Why? What's up?" Knuckles asks.

"Well, it's like this…" Sonic says.

And with that, Sonic explains to Knuckles and the others about Dr. Eggman's new Death Egg, and his robots, and the World Roboticizer, what really shocked them is what happened to Eve.

"SHE DID WHAT?!" Knuckles shouts in anger.

Sonic has his ears plugged after hearing Knuckles shout at him.

"Yeah. I figured you would react badly about that," Sonic says.

"Badly doesn't begin to describe it! And when were you going to tell us about this Death Egg?" Knuckles shouts.

"It happened almost a week ago. We never realized that the Egg Dome he had was the Death Egg this whole time," Sonic says.

"But that's not why I came. I came because I'm worried about my sister. She allowed herself to do this of her free will and ended up using a lot of her Chaos Energy to deflect Eggman's beam," Sonic says.

"That must have really taken a lot out of her," Saffron says.

"It has. And it's going to take a while for Eve to have that robotic arm because that Titan Metal Sonic destroys part of the city, including the de-roboticizer," Sonic says.

"That's a really big mess," Vector says.

"It was. And we're all worried about Eve. I know she's strong, but even she has her moments of feeling helpless," Sonic says.

Then says, "I want to search for Eggman, but we all agree that we should repair the city before coming up with a plan."

"I have to agree. If Eggman hid a Whole Death Egg from you guys, then who knows what else he's got hidden in there," Knuckles says.

"Yeah. And many of us are very worried about this. As of now. I'm worried about Eve," Sonic says, concerned.

"I'll bet, this must not be easy on her. But I'm sure she'll be alright. She's always willing to help those in need, even if it means harm to herself," Knuckles says.

Meanwhile, in the Science Center, Eve is sitting in a room alone. She's been inside for a while, deep in thought about what happened with the Death Egg situation, and about what happened to her arm and dreadlock. Despite having the support of her friends and family, Eve still feels down. Unknown to Eve, a small red flash of light appears in the corner of the room.

Approaching her is Dimitri, still connected to the system.

He asks, "Dear child… apart from the obvious, are you all right?"

"Oh, hi Dimitri. Sorry, I almost forgot you were installed here," Eve says

She begins to get up and says, "If you want me to leave, I won't bother you any further."

But Dimitri says, "If you were a bother, child, I wouldn't have let you continue with your train of thought."

"Yeah. I am in deep thought about what happened. I know it's the only way to stop the World Roboticizer, but it's still… I don't know… I didn't realize I've been here for some time now," Eve explains.

"Given to the results of the Dr. Eggman's latest project, I thought it best to give you some time before voicing my concern.." Dimitri says.

He then looks up, "...and I suppose Espio is doing the same."

"Espio?" Eve says, confused, looking up.

Just then, Espio begins to appear from above the ceiling and lands on the ground.

"You certainly know a lot for someone who's been 'missing' for so long," Espio says.

"I have limited access to the city's network. I could view the incident-and you coming in the front door," Dimitri says.

Espio turns to Eve and demands, "What is he doing here, Eve?!"

"Sonic, Tails, and I rescued him. When we found out, Lien-Da was planning to leave him for dead, but uh, in a way had me lead here, and when we explained it to Sally, we knew we had to show him mercy," Eve explains.

"Espio…" Dimitri speaks up.

But Espio angrily turns to Dimitri with a dagger and points at him, "What? What does a villain and a traitor have to say to me?!"

"And you would know nothing about being branded a traitor? Hmm?" Dimitri questions.

Then asks, "Now tell me-did you really come here to threaten me and to yell at Eve?"

Espio stares at Dimitri for a second and lowers his dagger, "...No."

"Eve, I overheard Sonic and the others talking and know what happened," Espio says, putting his dagger in his sleeve, "I… I came to see if you were okay."

"Not exactly. To be honest, I'm feeling a bit uneasy about it. About a lot of things. And feel like my life has become a cycle of disaster," Eve says.

"I have to suspect all the uh, trouble you've faced that has caused some mental issues. The Ark, the Black Arm Invasion, The Dark Legion, and other situations that have caused physical or mental harm to you," Espio says.

"That about sums it up," Eve says.

Then asks, "And still, why did you decide to come without the others?"

"Because he suspects you might need it. He also believed it will help to have a heart to heart talk," Dimitri says.

Then Espio turns to Eve, "Right or not, this is Dimitri, Eve! How could you not say something? Does Knuckles know?"

"Only a select few like myself, Sally, Sonic Tails, my father and mother, and even King Acorn and Queen Alicia. He's preparing himself to face Knuckles."

"She's being kind. In truth, I fear facing him at all. We have been sworn enemies for a very long time… I-I have done horrible things. But enough about me, I worry for you, Eve," Dimitri says.

"I guess I wonder if I made the right decision to redirect the World Roboticizer. I knew the risk, but decided to do it anyway. I know a lot of the risk I have to take, but choose to face it, and sometimes, I end up hurting myself, and it causes those around me to feel hurt," Eve sadly explains.

Then Eve sits next to Dimitri and asks, "You've made some uh, rash decisions before and faced whatever consequences it has, how do you deal with it?"

"Which time do you think she means? When you were Enerjak, or were you Grandmaster of the Legion?" Espio questions.

"In either scenario, I was trying to exert my will over reality, to force things to suit me rather than deal with them as they were," Dimitri says, catching Espio's attention.

Then Dimitri says, "And now look at me. Never to be with my family again. My people are led astray by my own son. My legacy is a twisted, wretched thing, serving the Eggman Empire. I was selfish. You two have something that I had ignored… you have the love and support of others. Friends who will seek you out to help you…"

He then says, "Eve, we all make rash decisions. Yours however, have involved you thinking of everyone else's well being. You were willing to put your life on the line for others, and sometimes your courageous act will have some consequences to yourself, but your thoughts for others always remain. Though… It is one thing to speak of courage. It's another to possess it. I'm afraid you two must lead by example."

"Thanks Dimitri. You can rest until you're ready," Eve says.

"I will never be 'ready', child," Dimitri says.

Then asks, "Espio, I know it is a lot for me to ask you for anything, but would you arrange a meeting with Knuckles for me?"

"Well… I'm in no position to deny someone a second chance. I'll talk to Knux, if you come with me," Espio says and turns to Eve.

"Of course. I'll help explain everything," Eve says.

Then Dimitri says, "I think it will be best if you get going. I'm assuming your friends and family might be wondering where you are."

"Okay. Thank you Dimitri," Eve says.

Sometime later, Espio and Eve return to the house and end up meeting up with Sonic, the rest of the Freedom Fighters, Knuckles and the Chaotix. Everyone has a chat, and everyone also reassures Eve that she has made the right decision, and that they are here to support her.

"Still, I wish I can go find Eggman and beat him with my hammer," Amy says.

"Yeah. I'll sting him too," Saffron says.

"Yeah," Charmy agrees.

"I appreciate it, but we have no idea where Eggman is and everyone is still working on the repairs of the city," Eve says.

"That Titan Metal Sonic has caused a lot of damage," Manic says.

"Not to mention Metal Sonic and Silver Metal Sonic attacked on the Death Egg," Sonic says.

Eve sighs and says, "I think I just had enough of dealing with these Metal replicas of us, especially replicas of Sonic."

"I know. There's Metal Sonic, Silver Sonic, Mecha Sonic… Let's not forget the Metal Scourge, Metal Eve, and Metal Shadow that he created to make duplicates of the others. and let's not forget Neo Metal Sonic," Sonic says.

Maria, Cosmo, and Galaxina are rather confused to hear it.

Galaxina asks, "Um Neo Metal Sonic?"

"Uh, who is Neo Metal Sonic?" Maria asks.

Sonic and Eve look at each other with confused looks. Then look at Tails. And then Tails looks at them. The three of them begin to think about it.

Eve asks, "We never told you that story?"

The three girls shake their heads in reply.

"I guess it's no surprise, well for Maria I guess. This actually happened after the incident with the Metarex, so I'm surprised we haven't told you about it," Amy says.

"Well, it also happened before the Black Arm attack, so I guess we didn't have much time to discuss it," Sonic says.

"Not to mention that the incident happened long before Maria came along as well," Eve says.

Then Knuckles says, "Oh yeah. I remember that."

"Me too. It was when Eggman actually hired us to solve a case," Charmy says.

"Charmy, Eggman tricked us into getting evolved," Vector says.

"Oh, right," Charmy replies, slouching his head.

"I remember the incident too, and that Neo Metal Sonic caused a lot of trouble. Not to mention he kidnapped Cheese, Chocola, Froggy, and Jazz," Fiona says.

"And you ended up getting into a brawl with Rouge," Nic says.

Fiona angrily says, "That's because that Rouge sometimes makes me so mad."

"I know, but she's still our comrade and friend," Eve says.

"I know," Fiona says with a sigh.

Curious, Cosmo asks, "Can you tell us about it?"

"Sure I don't see why not," Sonic says, shrugging his shoulders.

"Yeah. It's one of our more exciting, and yet dangerous adventures," Eve says.

"I want to tell them my, Cream, and Big's side of the story too," Amy says.

"Can we tell her our side of the story too?" Charmy asks.

"Might as well," Vector says, shrugging his shoulders.

"I like to hear it too," Cream says.

"Chao Chao," Cheese replies.

"Chao," Jazz replies.

"Okay then. Then allow Sonic to tell you the story first," Sonic says with pride.

And soon enough, Sonic is beginning to tell the group the story about Neo Metal Sonic.