Chapter 6 – Time to Say Farewell
Everyone was stunned. They could hear Sonic, yet they do not see him anywhere.
"Sonic?" exclaimed Tails and Draco.
"Yes, it's me again," said Sonic. "For those of you wondering, I already told Tails this, I'm in the afterlife and King Kurotsuki was so kind to let me communicate with you guys. Oh, by the way, Tails and Blaze, congratulations with your two newborns."
"Gee, thanks, Sonic," said Blaze.
"Sonic, we really miss you," said Tails.
"As I figured you would," replied Sonic. "Look, I know how much it affected all of you that I died, and I know that you might be wishing that there would be a way to bring me back, but there's something I must be honest about, since I've been giving a lot of thought. It would probably be better that I remain dead."
"But why?" asked everyone.
"Well, following the deaths of Dr Eggman and Metal Sonic, not to mention the destruction of the Death Egg, I felt as if my work is finally done," said Sonic. "To make things more specifically clear, I am completely finished with protecting the Earth. All the same, Eggman's attempts to terrorise the planet was mostly because he was after me. Metal Sonic was also created because Eggman wanted to make a robot that would be a match for me in speed and cunningness, which he nearly succeeded. Heck, even I was the reason Shadow was released out of stasis many years ago."
"I see your point, Sonic," said Tails.
"Heh, that was the same thing I said when you were going all out against Metal Sonic in your Ascended Super form," laughed Sonic. "But yeah, now that the threat is over, I don't have any more reason to continue on being the hero, especially after witnessing how your dragon friends took on Eggman's robots. You, Blaze, and the dragons are capable enough of protecting the world whenever it's in danger. Therefore, my time for retirement has come."
"That's so much for us to take in," said Draco. "Even though we only knew you for some time, we felt as if you've been a part of our lives, just like with Tails, Amy, Knuckles, and the others who have been with you since way back when. It can't just end like this, right?"
"I understand how hard it is for you to take this development, but really, I believe that it is all for the best," assured Sonic. "Besides, it doesn't have to be goodbye forever. Who knows, maybe somewhere in the future, I might come back and see you all again. Nevertheless, this is goodbye, at least for now."
Everyone listened with heavy hearts, knowing that everything Sonic had said was true.
"Oh, and Tails," continued Sonic. "There's one thing I have to…"
"It's alright, Sonic, I get it," said Tails as he tried to smile. "You're right about one thing. After getting a taste of that Ascended Super power, something inside of me tells me that I can take care of myself and my friends, and I don't have to be relying on you all the time whenever a problem arises. I just got to keep believing in myself, and that's how I can be able to fly higher, metaphorically speaking, though I still can fly with my two tails. I've done it before, I've done it now, and I can do it again. Just promise me that you'll contact us every once in a while, okay?"
"You know I will, my lifelong friend," promised Sonic. "Even in death, I still wish to keep an eye on you and the gang to make sure everything is fine."
"But not too frequently, Sonic," added King Kurotsuki. "You also have to stay in schedule with the special training you'll be receiving from me and Tatsuo. With Tails having reached the Ascended Super form, it's high time for you to follow suit as well."
"You're right, King Kurotsuki," said Sonic. "Here's another thing, for you, Tails, and also to you, Blaze, now I know it's not in me to be deciding the future for anyone, but you should get your two kids prepared when they are ready. Both of you hailed from bloodlines that are strong in the use of magic and Emerald power, so there's no doubt that your descendants will inherit these abilities too."
"That won't be a problem, Sonic," said Blaze. "I've already decided that Firnen and Saphira will be trained once they're old enough, since they'll be able to harness the powers of the Chaos and Sol Emeralds. One thing for certain, they'll become the next hope should another danger pose itself in their time."
"Good on you," said Sonic. "Well, anyway, it's time for me to go, but before I do, let me say this. Never doubt yourselves, because deep down, you are all stronger than you may think, and you should never fear change either, because when it comes right down to it, there are times change can be for the best. Most importantly, all of you are in control of your future, so make it a good one while you can. Farewell!"
And with that, the contact ended. The team bowed their heads, feeling rather sad that they might not see Sonic again for a very long time. After a silent moment of mourning, Tails lifted his head and smiled. "See you later, Sonic," he said.
"I know how you feel, Tails," said Blaze as she gently rocked Tails' head back and forth. "He will be missed, that's for sure."
"What was that about?" asked the doctor.
"Oh, it's nothing," said Blaze. "We were just telepathically communicating with a friend from across the globe."
"I see," replied the doctor. "Anyway, now that your babies have been registered, you're free to leave the hospital."
"Well, it's about time," said Draco. "I'm starving and I'd like to have some dim sums to eat."
"We just got back from space, and you're hungry already," laughed Torden.
"Not to worry," said Blaze. "There has to be something we could enjoy during our stay at Rio."
"Speaking of which, tomorrow we'll be having our concert," said Axl. "If any of you like to perform, please don't hesitate to ask."
"Oh, please do that!" said Lonnie excitedly. "These guys really bring life our concerts and many of the fans love them!"
"I'd like to join!" said Jeremy quickly. "I love Journey's music!"
"I'm going to join too," smiled Draco.
"So am I!" chimed Torden.
"Alright, it's settled," said Selena.
Just then, Blaze heard her phone ring, and she picked it up to see that it was Jimmy. "Hello, Jimmy?" she answered.
"Hey, Blaze, how's it going?" replied Jimmy. "So has the little tyke arrived yet?"
"Yes, it has," said Blaze. "But it's not just one, it's two! I have twins!"
"Whoa, good on you!" said Jimmy. "I know they're going to grow up to be lovely and strong like you and Tails. Anyway, I called because I have some news for you. Because we did very well in our mission to destroy the Death Egg, Empress Celeste has rewarded us a vacation and we chose to go to Rio. I can hardly wait to seeing you guys again!"
"Well, you're in luck, because we're there as well!" smiled Blaze.
"Totally cool," said Jimmy. "Hero, Ignatius, and Shu will be on our way tomorrow!"
"Not a problem," replied Blaze. "See you tomorrow, Jimmy."
"See you then!" said Jimmy and the call ended.
Axl thought for a moment. "You know, this just gave me an idea," he said. "Why don't we do our concert at the same time the Anthro League fighters are coming to celebrate their victory on their vacation?"
"Great idea!" said Selena. "It will be a way to add more to the celebration that peace is restored to the world once again!"
Everyone agreed with the idea.
Blaze checked the time on her phone. "I think we better get going and have some dinner," she said. "These couple of months had been quite eventful, and we all deserve a break after all that."
"Yes indeed," said Lily. "This adventure seemed like the longest we had by far!"
The team made their way to the main entrance of the hospital where Moonracer, Dark and the rest of the Nightriders were eagerly waiting for them. When they saw the twins, they were taken in by their cuteness.
"Aw, look at those two!" gushed Melissa.
"Yeah, they're real beauties," said Jan.
"Coochie-coochie-coo!" said Sabrina as she playfully tickled Saphira's chin.
"The both of you must be very proud, Tails and Blaze," said Lucinda.
"Why, thank you, everyone," said Blaze. "As you know, we're so happy to be a family."
"So, Axl's told us about the plans of doing a concert tomorrow," said Iggy. "That should be very fun!"
"Yeah, but don't be goofing off like you always do, Iggy," grunted Rolf.
"Give him a break!" burst out Brutus. "This has been quite day fighting all these robots!"
"And a concert is all we need to unwind from the battle," said Iggy.
"Heheh, you guys with your usual banter," laughed Torden.
"So, Moonracer, Silver and Viper, do you want to check out the Nightriders concert tomorrow?" asked Draco.
"I'm afraid I can't," said Moonracer. "I have to get back to Norway and continue my activities with the Queen."
"Neither could we," said Viper. "Silver and I need to return to our world tonight."
"It's been great helping you stopping Eggman and Metal Sonic from taking over the world," said Silver. "As soon as we head back where we came from, we've got a lot of stories to tell to our friends over there."
"That's understandable," said Cynder.
"If you don't mind, I need to fly off to Australia," said Tails. "I'm going to pick up Amy and Cream so they can say goodbye to you, Silver and Viper. Still, it will be hard to tell them the news that Sonic's dead, but I'll have to try."
"Good luck, Tails," said Blaze. "And try to get back as quickly as you can so we can eat altogether and say goodbye to our allies."
"In that case, you may need this," said Cynder and she tossed the Transporter Device to Tails.
"Thanks a lot, Cynder and Blaze. I'll do my best," said Tails, and he hurried out of the hospital to use the Transporter Device.
"Well, see you around, everyone," said Moonracer. "And don't hesitate to let me know whenever the world's in danger again. Until we meet again, take care."
"It's always appreciated, Moonracer," replied Cynder. "Have a safe journey home."
Moonracer smiled and beckoning a salute to his friends and allies, he went out the entrance, spread his wings and flew northbound.
The group wondered what their next move would be. "You know," began Cynder. "Maybe we could have a look around the city of Rio. I know there's a beach nearby, so I suppose it would be a good idea to have a stroll over there."
"Oh, yes, I love the beach!" exclaimed Slade.
"I think Draco, Dark and I will explore the streets," said Charonus.
"Alright then," said Blaze. "You three have some fun sightseeing while the rest of us will head to the beach. Meet us there when you get back, okay?"
"We will," said Draco, Charonus and Dark, and as they left the hospital, Blaze thought deeply over Tails while she tended to the babies. She was worried herself that Amy would not take Sonic's death very well as she knew how much she felt for the blue hedgehog.
It had been a short journey to Australia for Tails thanks to the Transporter Device. He arrived at his laboratory, where he found Amy and Cream inside.
"Tails, welcome back!" they greeted. "We've been keeping your house clean while you were away. So, Eggman has been defeated, right?"
"Yes," replied Tails as he made his way inside, seeing that the house was left neat and tidy. "Well, it actually turns out that Metal Sonic was the one behind the robot attack, but still, they're gone forever and the Death Egg was destroyed."
"I knew you guys could do it!" exclaimed Amy. "Now tell me, where is Sonic?"
Tails gulped. He knew that the big question was going to pop up at any time. Trying to find the right words, he hesitated for a brief moment, his expression turned serious. "Everyone that took part in confronting Eggman and Metal Sonic returned in one piece," he said. "But… Sonic did not make it. He died trying to save us all..."
Cream's ears drooped from the news and she lowered her head sadly. Amy, on the other hand, was stunned and speechless. Then, overwhelmed with tears, she fell to the floor and started to cry. Tails and Cream came to her side as they tried to comfort her.
"I knew this would happen!" she sobbed. "Sonic would rather be dead than live with me!"
"No, Amy, it's not like that at all," assured Tails. "I know Sonic has always been avoiding your, um, romantic gestures as he preferred living a life with no strings attached, and he may be reckless, self-centred and irresponsible at times, but deep down he really cares for you. He cares for all of us."
Amy did not answer as she wept more. Tails thought what else to add to help her feel better.
"You know, Amy," he continued. "Before he died, he mentioned us. He asked me and Blaze to take good care of you, and I intend to keep that promise."
"My, my Sonic…" said Amy as she lifted her head up.
"There now, Amy," said Cream. "If Sonic has asked Tails to make sure you will be alright, then it shows that he truly cares for you."
Tails nodded in agreement. "Now, how about we all go to Brazil?" he suggested. "We're about to have a farewell dinner for Silver and Viper as they're going to be returning to the world they came from, and tomorrow there's going to be a concert you both will enjoy!"
After spending the afternoon at the beaches of Rio, the team were having their dinner at a local restaurant. Draco, Charonus and Dark have returned from their stroll and Tails, Amy and Cream have arrived in time. Blaze showed the newborn twins to Amy and Cream and they were very impressed. Together, they enjoyed a lunch of pizza, dim sums, fish, and even a variety of Brazilian food to celebrate their victory over Eggman and Metal Sonic. At the same time, they were hosting a farewell party for Silver and Viper. Amy was still feeling depressed as she was hoping to make some chili dogs for Sonic. Nevertheless, everyone had a splendid time and Silver and Viper felt very honoured by their friends' invitation.
Finally, it was time for the two to return to their world. Night came slowly, and they gathered at a remote area outside the city of Rio.
"Well, now that Eggman and Metal Sonic are gone, it looks like our work here is done," said Viper. "It was really nice getting to know you all, and I thank you for reuniting us back when we were separated after ending up here in this world."
"Are you sure you don't want to stay for the concert tomorrow?" asked Tails.
"No, that's okay," replied Silver. "Besides, we really need to check on how things are over in our world. Still, there's one thing for sure when I get back home, I'm going to miss you all, especially you, Blaze…"
"Silver?" asked Blaze.
"Blaze, there's something I want to tell you before I go," said Silver. "You truly have found happiness with Tails, and you became a mother to your lovely twins. I want to wish you all a safe and happy future together, and no matter what, you'll always be my friend."
"Thank you for your kind words, Silver," smiled Blaze. "I know Tails and I are going to live well and make it through any challenge that presents itself to us."
Congratulations, Silver, thought Viper. You've come to terms and accepted the strong relationship and love between Tails and Blaze. I'm very proud of you, my friend. When we return to our home dimension, I'll be giving you a pat on the back.
"Guess this is it," said Silver. "Viper and I are all good to go. Percival, can you give me the Chaos Emerald, please?"
"Not a problem, Silver!" said Percival and he tossed the only Chaos Emerald in his possession to Silver, who then proceeded to focus on it. After a few second, the Chaos Emerald started to glow, and then with a blinding flash, a big bright portal took form.
Silver nodded to his friends, but then he noticed someone else watching him from the distance. He could tell that it was Shadow, who silently gave him a finger gesture. Silver smiled and returned the gesture to Shadow just before he disappeared into the darkness.
"What were you looking at, Silver?" asked Viper.
"Oh, nothing," said Silver. "Come on, let's go."
"Goodbye, Silver and Viper!" called the team. "Thanks for your help!"
"Goodbye, everyone," said Silver and Viper and they jumped into the portal which then shrunk into nothingness. With that, the Chaos Emerald on the ground stopped glowing.
"We'll need to give that Chaos Emerald to Knuckles, since he has the rest, including the Master Emerald," said Blaze. "They'll be in safe hands from now on."
Tails nodded. "I guess it's time we head back to the city and rest up," he said. "Tomorrow's going to be a big day."
"I know a hotel we could go," said Axl. "Come along, everyone!"
So the team followed the Nightriders as they made their way back to Rio. After a long, arduous day of battling Eggman's robots, they felt they deserved a long rest.
The next day was very eventful, for the beaches of Rio were full of merriment. Jimmy, Hero, Ignatius, Shu and Fang were present as they were making the best out of their vacation, and so were the Kremlings. Charonus and Dark, who have started a friendship since the dinner last night, watched as their friends played by the shore. Everyone was celebrating their victory over the Eggman Empire. Meanwhile, Blaze and Tails showed their newborn twins to their friends who were yet to see them, and they agreed that they were adorable.
It was then time for the Nightriders to perform their concert. As some of the Anthro League space fighters took their seats, Axl tested the microphone to make sure it was working properly, content that the audience reached full house. "Welcome to our Rio concert," he said. "We've got some special guests performing with us as well since they were heroes having saved the world from Eggman. This will be a unique concert as we're not going to be performing some of our hits. Instead, we're going to be presenting a repertoire that consists only of Journey's music. We thank you for coming, and we hope you'll enjoy the show! Our first song for the day will be 'Don't Stop Believing,' which goes along well for our special guests!"
Everyone applauded. Tails and Blaze watched excitedly, eager to see Cynder's group, Jeremy and Bowser performing along with the Nightriders. At last, the curtain opened to reveal the band and the dragons. The concert began, and true to Axl's word, the band started with Journey's song "Don't Stop Believing."
The crowd cheered with delight and listened while Tails and Blaze sat back and watched their friends perform. Blaze eyed the twins and she smiled that they were enjoying the concert too. She could tell that Firnen and Saphira will grow up to be fine cat-foxes and also become strong warriors in their own right, just like her.
Tails was still watching the concert, when suddenly he thought he felt a hand touch his shoulder. He looked around and saw that there was nothing behind him, but soon he saw something extraordinary up in the sky. He could see the image of him. Sonic was smiling down at him. Tails could only smile and sigh. "Thanks, Sonic," he whispered. "I'll always remember you by…"
Blaze turned to Tails and saw him staring up to the heavens. She could tell that he missed Sonic as she missed him herself. Knowing that with Eggman and Metal Sonic no longer around to threaten the Earth, he could finally rest in peace and happiness. Together, Blaze and Tails looked back to their memories of Sonic, all the things they learned from him, and most importantly, the friendship they shared that helped them develop and grow to what they have become now and towards the future.
Next Time… A New Beginning!
It's finally over. Season 3 is finished. As usual, I hope you enjoyed reading through the Death Egg saga. Sonic will be missed, though, but at least he is happy that Dr Eggman and Metal Sonic are no more. He truly deserves his retirement, and who knows if he'll ever come back again. The series is far from over, however. Dragon Heroes will return in Season 4 where we'll be introduced to newer characters and even more challenges our heroes will have to take on! But for now, this is going to be a long, well-deserved break.
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and see you all again in 2019!
-DracoCharizard87