Hello my audience! :D
Glad you're here! I've got a huge chapter for you (8,600 words! :O) and I'm glad I can finally get it out and never look at it again. T-T It's pissing me off...
School has begun for me so you can tell this is a little rushed (well, I can tell) but I hope you can enjoy it just the same! I know I promised a big chuck of Sonic x Amy but I added in more than I originally planned...the big bulk of the Sonic x Amy will be in the next chapter. I apologize. u-u
HOLY CRAP THIS STORY SURPASSED 100 REVIEWS! I never thought I would make it to 113 on only the 8th chapter! We've hardly gotten into the meat of the story! Thanks to you all, (especially the following) for reviewing! :D
SnowyDawn17: Yeah, I changed the deadline by 5 days *face palms* Yes! Amy has stopped fangirl-ing! She is no longer after Sonic. You can see how it pays off in this chapter. ;) MagicallyAWOL: You are a fantastic person. :) Thank you for dropping a review! Yes, I experiment with the imagery so I'm glad you found it superb. That means a lot to me! Zelzainia and Lina: HI I LOVE YOU. What a relief. Glad you enjoyed her. It's a pleasure writing about her! OH BUTTS I MISSPELLED. I am forever embarrassed XD AWESOMEROCKSTAR101: Thanks! Yeah I try to make the nightmares as creepy as possible! Wait until you read the one in this chapter. XD zennyzen: Shadow is a stoic guy. But you have to expect that from a Commander who goes out and murders people. o.o PoeticLover1996: Hi! :D Glad you love my story! The Sonic x Amy is coming! This chapter has a hint of it! Thanks for the support too! EmberLovesRoses: OHMAHGAWSH I'm your FAV author? *sobs dramatically* you're my fav reader! (Don't tell the others o-o) And I would have done the same thing XD I think Amy was just a little too awesome to waste her energy on punishing Shadow. She let him off easy. -.- Dark sin broken heart: Well now you can find out! :D BluePeach: If you love stories with history, you'll love this chapter! And if you love Shadow, HE'S TEACHING THE LESSON. Bam. Instant love for this chapter. XD Diamante8: IMAGINE Shadow is sexy? He IS sexy. XD And YES SONAMYOH CRAP NOT AS MUCH AS I WANTED IN THIS CHAPTER *apology cookie*Alesia: Glad you love it! :D And more intense Sonamy is coming so don't you worry! AlexaTheHedghehog: Yeah there's a lot of pressure on Amy right now. Let's hope she doesn't go crazy! :D And Amy is definitely not running away from the love in this chapter. ;) Guest: NO! Don't be sorry! Everything is cool. :) I love hearing from you, dude/girl! Thanks for all the praise, it's really been helping me out. I tried to get this out as soon as I could! I never expected this kind of popularity, believe me! And great! Start writing those stories! Who knows, maybe you'll write something that'll inspire other people! Like me! :D Guest123: Yeah this is just my imagination throwing up on the computer XD I try to give my readers the full experience using all the skills I have. Glad you enjoy! :) No name: Well I added a ton to this chapter so I hope you love me XD And as for her nightmares: Hmmmm, warnings? That's a possibility. Fears? Most likely, I mean they're all pretty creepy. Guess you'll have to wait and see ;) Well if you look at the evidence in history *in this chapter* you'll see that history not backing up her case in being the newfound "Chaos Guardian." But see I don't know anything! I'm just the author. ;) People: OH GOD IS THAT A THREAT? D: I'm trying to finish it! Don't kill my plants! *sobs* Reader 1: Thanks for the review then! I can't believe I passed 100 D: Amazing: *bows to invisible crowd* Thank you, thank you! I stayed up all night writing this! *waves*
Green-Eyed-Raccon: I just love responding to your reviews! XD 1. Yes, Shadow is one sexy hedgehog. And now he's teaching Amy the history of the kingdoms. He must be god. 2. I'm glad you brought this up! I handle all relationships in this story maturely, so there's not need to worry about that! Although I can assure you that the Kiya x Shadow relationship is extinct *spoiler* it does not mean I won't be bringing to life other possible FC x C relationships. (MAYBE I DON'T KNOW YET!) There's only like...4 OCs so far and 3 of them are guys. :P In my mind I plan "Character A" to fall in love with "Character B" wether that be a canon or not, it really didn't bother me. If you (or any other reader, for that matter) is reading this story for the storyline, it should be easy to overlook. Romance is Romance and it should be enjoyable to read :) Sorry if you found that disturbing. It's just kinda the way it played out in my head, I guess! :D 3. YES. Amy chasing Sonic is no more! Amy is independent and mature and should not be running and screaming for the Prince of Solstice because she will be kept in the dungeon for, like, ever. XD 4. No! Please, overanalyze! It will help you anticipate more things that are going to happen in the story! I always live little hints in every chapter. ;) Check out the nightmare she has this chapter! It's crazy intense. o-o I always love getting a review from you! Thanks for the support! Hope you like this semi-rushed chapter! XD
Disclaimer: I do NOT own ANY of the Sonic characters. They belong to SEGA and the Sonic Team. I only own Alfonso and Blitz. LL belongs to Comrade Athelwine (HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BUDDY! I HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT ONE!) and Kiya belongs to Zelzania and Lina! :)
Jeez, these Author's Notes are getting long. o-o
~ o - Chapter 8 - o ~
"Chaos is the god of all beings. He speaks on behalf of the people and assists the anthropomorphic race in whatever way he can. Chaos is also known as "the god of the people." That's why you will sometimes hear the Chaos Guardian known as the "Guardian of the People." But we will get to that later," Shadow said.
It was easy to listen to Shadow speak. His smooth and deep words vibrated in the air in soft vibrations -it would have been very seductive had he not been talking about Solstice history.
"The other god is actually a goddess. Nyx, the goddess of Night. Her belief is that the one who earns the position will lead all. "The most magnificent shall rise up and lead the masses." The western kingdom of Nightfall believes in Nyx and they seem to thrive fairly well. Although, they do not have anything similar to a Chaos Guardian."
He shrugged his shoulders a bit, his arms still crossed. "Nor are they our allies, though it would be wise to make them one," he said more to himself than to me.
"The other god is Gaia, the god of Earth. He believes in honor and integrity should rule a society. The kingdom of Aurora, in the north, believes in Gaia. They also thrive as a kingdom, but there is a vast separation between rich and poor. The rich there are very refined, though. Their high principles have molded them into a dignified society."
Shadow sighed tiredly, "The final god is one that was thought to have been extinct long ago. Only during the massive War of Faiths did the god exhibit its influence on the people of the world."
I shyly rose my hand as if I was five-years-old again in a kindergarden classroom, "War of Faiths?"
Shadow waved his hand as if to shoo that matter away, "Later." He said, "The God of Darkness, Erebus, believed that only one person should rule everyone. Only the most ruthless could rule the people that believed in the evil god, Erebus. A kingdom could not survive on this morality, but that did not stop the followers of Erebus. The rebels in the east are believers in Erebus, and they are continually attacking kingdoms for control."
Shadow shook his head as he stared down at the edge of the table with a stern expression, "Their morales are twisted. They have convinced themselves that killing is right. The rebels are becoming stronger, and the kingdoms are afraid that Erebus may have a bigger influence on its followers than we thought."
I squirmed in my chair thinking about the unstable followers of Erebus. Evil influences may have been on the planet, spreading like a disease. I just wanted to shelter myself in my bed with the covers over my head and never come out.
His piercing red eyes flicked up to meet mine, holding a steady gaze with me, "But those are things to worry about a different time. For now, you just need to be educated." He said insistently before looking down the the books. "Those four godsare the celestial beings that lead each kingdom. Apart from the kingdom of Acorn, who believes that no god shall rule them and that natural forces are at work instead of celestial forces. They are in the northeast over the Ashwood Mountains." He felt the need to add, "We are trying to form allies with them and Aurora."
He took a deep breath and stood up, unfolding his arms so he could slide "The Origins of Power" book in front of me.
"Now we can get to this," he flicked the book open to a map of the continent, but it was not separated into the kingdoms I knew today. In cursive letters across the continent it said "Aether."
"This is the world a thousand years ago. It was one large empire -the empire of Aether. The people of Aether believed in all the gods -Chaos, Gaia, Nyx, and even Erebus- and thrived as one for many years, until the early quarrels between monarchy and the people began to arise. These fights started many bloody wars. The empire became disorganized and began to collapse under the disagreements among the people and the royal. The king at the time, King Galahad, called upon the gods for assistance. Chaos answered."
He turned the page and there was a painting, the clouds were parted and sunlight beamed in from the sky. The people were crowded around the area, looking at each other with shocked expressions.
"Chaos sent down a being from heaven. A being gifted with celestial abilities and the compassion to speak on behalf of the people of Aether. They became known as the first Chaos Guardian."
He began turning more pages, until he got to one with a green Chaos emerald being held up to the sky by a man -either the king or the Guardian, I wasn't sure.
"The Guardian's name was Fey and for many years, people worshipped the Guardian and he helped the people of Aether spread peace through the kingdom.
Although peace was being maintained, people of the world began to fear the Guardian. Having a celestial being walking among the normal was unsettling to many. Alliances against the guardian began to form, all of them stemming from the paranoia of the Guardian turning against the people.
The Guardian decided to put the people's fears to rest. Fey encased most of his power in an emerald, only when he came into contact with it could he use the full extent of his power. The people of Aether were finally satisfied with the compromise."
"After many years, Fey birthed a son and a daughter. Neither of them had Chaos' gift. It was only when Fey died did the next Chaos Guardian arise, from a different bloodline. Every generation, a new Chaos Guardian would be chosen and that Guardian would live on helping the people of Aether."
He turned to another page, this one was a picture of the continent six-hundred years later. There were areas sectioned off with dotted lines, symboling arising territories.
"Six-hundred years passed and the people of Aether began to deviate into large cities. Slowly, people began to look to the other gods -Nyx, Gaia, and Erebus- for their sole support, neglecting the Guardian and his help completely. The existing Chaos Guardian found this hard to cope with."
I raised an eyebrow at him, "What do you mean?"
He seemed to directly look at me for the first time in his entire rant, "The Chaos Guardian, three-hundred years ago, slaughtered hundreds of thousands of people."
My jaw dropped, "What?!" I nearly yelled, "But you just got through telling me he was good!"
Shadow shook his head, "The Guardian could not handle the kingdoms splitting apart after all the time and effort he put into uniting them for the past six-hundred years. The Guardian destroyed the emerging cities and killed anyone that got in his way."
Shadow slid over the other book, "A secret society was established during this time, against the Chaos Guardian and his followers." Shadow brushed off the dirt on the cover to reveal the title, "and thus, the War of Faiths began."
The title of the book was, in fact, "The War of Faiths." He flipped the book open and went to another bookmarked page. This one was of a young man wielding a sword and pointing it to the sky victoriously as people surrounded him and kissed the ground around him.
"After 20 grueling years of war, Jules Hedgehog -who was then leading a resistance against the Guardian- killed the Guardian in a final battle with his Heavenly blade." He turned the page and it showed a map, dating back three-hundred years. A map I was familiar with.
"The kingdoms split into what you know them to be today. Jules Hedgehog -Prince Sonic's great great great grandfather- became King of Solstice, and the name Pyro Ashwood went down in infamy -the Guardian that slaughtered the people. King Jules still believed in Chaos, despite the Chaos Guardian's rampage. He would tell the people of Solstice, "it was not the Chaos part of Pyro Ashwood that destroyed our land and our people. It was the anthropomorphic part that was corrupt." The other kingdoms held a deep grudge towards those who believed in Chaos, which is why there is still bad blood between the kingdoms and Solstice today."
He shut the book and a small cloud of dust puffed out of the pages, "The line of Chaos Guardians was thought to be severed. A new Chaos Guardian never stepped forth. It was thought that Chaos had taken back the Guardian. That is, until you used the emerald's power during the Knighting Ceremony."
I immediately snapped out of my previous daze and looked up at him. Shadow was leaning over the desk, his weight on his palms, studying me silently. I could guess what he was asking himself, "How could she be the legendary Chaos Guardian?"
"So Pyro started the War of Faiths," I reiterated for simplicity sake, "Jules Hedgehog killed him, and then the line of Chaos Guardians -which were all male- discontinued for three-hundred years until me."
He nodded, "That's correct."
I shook my head at how ridiculous it all sounded. There was no way it could have been me, I'm a female! All of the previous Chaos Guardians were male!
"Is this something I was born with or did it just,"-I searched for a word- "'turn on' at the Knighting Ceremony?"
Shadow put the two ancient books on top of each other, "If I remember correctly, it is something you're born with." He threw his hand up irritably, "had Tails found the third book, I would have been able to tell you all the characteristics of the previous Guardians. Abilities, ceremonies, duties the Guardian has to the populace...all of that."
"So is this book lost forever or does someone have it right now...?" I asked.
"Misplaced, checked-out, set aside -no book is allowed to leave the library unless the library approves of it. I'll tell Tails to keep looking for it," he said as he pushed back some of his black and crimson quills.
Shadow looked overwhelmed. I was guessing he was going through the list of responsibilities he had and was only piling more things on as we sat here. Being a Commander, training the Guardsmen, studying strategies, keeping up with the rebel wars and news- and now here he was having to babysit me.
I know he just smacked me hard in the face with a staff -and I haven't heard an apology, might I add- but who could blame the guy for being so brutal when he trained? That was his outlet. That was where he could drop his burdens for just a moment and pick up a sword and let loose for awhile.
He's only doing what he can to train me. Who am I to complain about his tactics? I need to become the next Chaos Guardian, so I need to suck it up and-
"Miss Rose!"
I quickly turned to the source of the robust voice, but already he was there before me. Scourge was kneeling at my side, looking up at me with concerned blue eyes. Surprised by his sudden appearance, I could only stare at him with a gentle expression of worry. It seemed an eternity looking into his eyes. They popped against his dark green fur, like a sky would against a dark green forest. His eyes made it's course around my face -from my eyes, gently dropping to my lips, then darting to the bruise on my cheek. The inner composure he had still kept his features relaxed, his lips parted the slightest bit like his breath was taken away.
His quills were only the slightest bit shaggy, enough for me to feel the urge to run my hands through it to fix it. Suddenly I felt the draw to him, an urge I have fought since I've gotten here.
"You're face," he said in an awestruck breath, his hand lifted the slightest bit as if to caress my cheek, but he restrained himself. The breathless concern in his voice dropped my heart the slightest bit.
He cared.
There was a sudden crease in his forehead, an angle to his eyes -but not directed towards me. Anger had propelled him upright and he threw Shadow a stern look of disapproval.
"Shadow," he said in a scolding voice that set the tone of the rant he was about to give.
Shadow made a grunt of frustration, rivaling Scourge's look of disapproval.
"Not you too," Shadow said.
"What could have possibly possessed you to hurt Amy on her first day of training," Scourge said exasperatedly.
Shadow crossed his arms, "this is the only way she will learn."
"Why don't we strengthen her before we put her through this" -Scourge lightly gestured to me- "kind of physical pain."
Shadow sighed a long tired sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. The lines on his forehead conveyed his feelings, he was holding back a lot of anger.
"I don't have time for this," Shadow mumbled.
Scourge folded his arms, his biceps flexing in the process, "I just don't want you to discourage her from training. We all want this to be an easy process."
From underneath the hand that was pinching his muzzle, Shadow's shadowy dark red gaze burned angrily into Scourge. Scourge was not affected in the least, but I, on the other hand, felt the urge to cringe. Shadow didn't say a word.
"I'll take Amy back to her sleeping quarters," Scourge said in a more level tone, "you should get to sleep too."
It was, in fact, getting late. The dim sunlight that once peeked through the windows was now turning into moonlight. Shadow took a deep breath through his nose, then unravelled his arms so they were against the wooden desk. He looked up at me with a tired expression.
"If you have any questions, you can either come to me or you can come here, to the library. Tails will help you," he said. "We'll train again in a couple days."
I stood up from my seat, doing my best to keep a steady gaze with his malicious looking eyes.
"Thank you, Shadow, for everything," I tried to push as much sincerity into my voice as possible, "I mean that."
Shadow's eyes narrowed slightly at me, but he blinked it away within moments. He took a silent deep breath and slowly crossed his arms, beginning to turn his back to me to end the conversation.
"Don't thank me yet," he mumbled.
I studied the strong hedgehog's back for a moment as he stared out the window, then I began my way out of the room with Scourge.
We passed the towering bookshelves and passed the main desk of the Grand Library. Once we were again in the maze of hallways, Scourge turned to me.
"Are you hungry?"
I thought of his question for awhile. I had been so occupied with other things, I hadn't eaten lunch or dinner today.
"I actually am," I said slowly, looking up at him to see his reaction.
His response was a small smile, "then let's get you something."
~ o - o ~
Scourge came back with a small plate. I scooted up in my chair, eager to see what he had made me.
"Some of my finest work," he said with a teasing smile.
He set down the white plate before me. It was a sandwich -a nice, plain, beautiful sandwich. Something a normal person would eat. Oh Chaos did I want normalcy.
"Thank you," I said, picking up one half of the sandwich, "it looks really good."
I took a bite out of the sandwich and found it to be turkey, with some swiss cheese, piled with lettuce, and mayo, all on sourdough bread.
He slid into the chair across from me, folding his arms so his elbows rested on the table, "So you already trust me enough to not poison your food?"
I looked up at him, returning his teasing smile, "I don't have a reason not to."
He smiled a gentle smile, his eyes becoming half-lidded.
"I plan to keep it that way," he said in a deep -almost seductive- voice.
The wave of warm emotion that spread across my skin kept me from saying anything in return. I attempted to subdue my smile but it came before I could hide it. My eyes flicking shyly from Scourge to my now half-eaten sandwich. It was suddenly hard not to stare at him and memorize his handsome features to daydream about later. I decided to take a bite out of my sandwich to keep myself distracted.
"How are you liking it here at the castle?" he asked after a long moment.
I nodded as I swallowed a piece of sandwich, "The castle is amazing," I said.
He smiled, "Quite the piece of architecture our ancestors built," he said, musing at the high walls and articulate molding of the small dining area, "And secure too."
He gestured widely to the land outside the window across the room. It was dark, but the moon painted the trees with silver light. The air was cool and crisp outside, even the trees seemed to freeze with the temperature. Despite the stillness, it didn't look foreboding in the least. It was a dark beauty, one I could find myself serene in. A place where all my worries could be released.
When I met with Scourge's eyes, they were relaxed and confident, highlighted with silver moonlight. Enchanted by his water-like eyes, I found myself engaged in his deep voice and chiseled handsome features.
"Outside the castle are many acres of land, surrounded by a large stone wall with guards patrolling day and night," he said, a sly smile gracing his lips. "Not only are our Guardsmen top-notch but with myself and the other two commanders here as well, the invaders would have to be extremely stupid or have a death wish to attempt invading."
I gingerly picked up my glass, "Well that makes me feel much safer, thank you," I said, smiling to him softly over the edge of my water before I sipped it.
His blue eyes became half-lidded, glimmering with passion, "I just want you to be comfortable knowing you are safe here at the castle." His lips held a warm smile.
I nodded, "I do feel comfortable. Everyone here has been nice to me so far, and the clothes are clean and I'm well fed and my room is just phenomenal."
"Perfect. I love to hear that," he said with a lazy smile, revealing his teeth that glowed in the moonlight. "Your training will also be less harsh."
His water droplet eyes dropped concernedly to my cheek. "We cant push you too hard. You are a valuable part of this castle."
I took a rough swallow, staring at my sandwich in a daze. My lips and mouth dried up thinking about my role in the castle. I was not only part of the castle but I was a valuable part of it. And here I was -weak and inexperienced- taking all the responsibilities of a valuable role; a prestigious role untouched for many years.
"Amy?"
I jerked out of my stupor, my thoughts fluttering away like scared butterflies, leaving behind a tense knot in my stomach and a strain across the back of my neck and shoulders. His piercing blue eyes cut through my brief confusion and anxiety. Softness emanated from him, a cool wave of serenity came over me as I stared into his icy depths. It was that brief moment of eye contact that I felt something intimate, just as I had in the study room not too long ago. Passion weighted down his eye lids, the muscles in his face relaxed. With my eyes I traced from his prominent cheek bones down to his masculine chin to his slightly parted lips -and it was there that I found myself flaming with the sudden urge to be near him.
"You seem tense," he said carefully after a long moment.
I tried to catch up with my thoughts, but they seemed to be running off to daydream. Hopelessly, I licked my dry lips and his heavy-lidded eyes followed the movement of my tongue. His eyes lingered there, a intense look of passion in his eyes. I had to look away from him to ease my flaming emotions. I gathered my thoughts, staring at the ground next to the table.
"You know, I think I've been having some terrible anxiety lately," my forehead was tensed, focusing on my words, "I haven't gotten very good sleep these last couple days."
Soundlessly, Scourge rose from his chair, catching my attention. To have his silhouette watching over me made me feel small, but I also felt a sense of security. Whatever emotions were passing between us, gave me a sense of trust with him, and a urge to be near him. I looked up to search his expression for an answer, but I immediately dropped my eyes back to the floor once I caught a glimpse of passion in his expression.
"Why have you been unable to sleep, Amy?" The sound of him saying my name impacted me straight in my core. He inched closer and closer to me. My heartbeat quickened, "Does the bed not suit you?"
My breaths were shallow and it was nearly impossible not to stare at him now, "I'm having nightmares -vivid ones. It must be from anxiety," I said almost breathlessly.
He was now lingering behind my chair, so close I could almost feel his heat. His presence tingled across my skin. I was frozen within myself as if any movement I made could have scared him away.
And I didn't want to scare him away.
His voice rumbled deeply through the night air, "You have too much on your mind."
His hands gently slid across my shoulders like a warm blanket. At his touch I tensed slightly, but slowly melted into the way his hands grazed my skin. My lips parted, my whole body relaxing into his hands. I was overcome with a blissful tiredness, unable to think of anything other than falling into his arms and embracing his intimate heat. With gentle fingers, he pushed aside my pink hair so it fell down my back, giving him easier access to the tender skin of my neck. The cold night air settled on my warm neck, my skin now sensitive and stark in anticipation.
He massaged in soft circles. Instantly I lost myself in the proliferating warmth in my body, spreading like a blooming garden.
His lips came close to my ear, his warm breath sent shivers down my spine.
"You just need to relax, Amy."
The light brushes of his fingers had me in the most relaxation I had felt in years. My eyelids fluttered, feeling the heavy weight of exhaustion suddenly crashing down on me. I was going to fall asleep right here in my chair, with Lord Scourge massaging my shoulders and guarding me. Guarding me from the evils the castle held. To dispose of the harsh whispers and narrowed eyes that criticized my every move. To ward off the nightmares that threatened to tear my sanity apart.
His lips came close to my ear, "Just relax. Allow me to rid you of your troubling thoughts."
He already had me in a trance. His nimble fingers pressed softly into my skin, his hands worked as though sculpting clay. With each swipe of his finger my skin tingled, feeding the fire of emotions in my heart. Every emotion that rushed through me held the same intense urge that I was finding harder and harder to suppress. I just wanted to get out my my chair, turn around, grab him by the collar of his shirt and pull him into-
"Sorry to interrupt," -my eyes shot open and I nearly jumped out of my skin at the sudden deep voice- "but Amy is needed back in her sleeping quarters."
My heart spiked in my chest, my senses awakening, my mind reeling but I was unable to find the words to explain my situation. Heat burned my cheeks and I suddenly felt as though I was under a hot spotlight even though I was encased in darkness. Scourge's hands left my shoulders and I could feel him tense behind me.
"And what exactly is she needed for, Sir Knuckles," Scourge asked skeptically.
I could hear his slow footsteps approach the table. He walked into a small beam of moonlight where only his cheek and lips were illuminated.
"Mistress Kiya needs to perform some remedies to heal Amy's cheek, my lord. She asked me to find her and bring her to her."
All over I felt hot an embarrassed, ready to jump out of my seat and join Knuckles in the journey back to my room. Never had I felt so weak and emotional for a man who only wished to ease me of my night terrors. Surely he thought I was foolish for being infatuated with him. He only courted the most beautiful ladies in the kingdom, tossing aside those -like myself- who were not so remarkably gorgeous and could only fawn over his very presence.
"You may go back to the Guard Chambers, Sir Knuckles. I will gladly escort Miss Rose to her-"
"No need," Knuckles interjected in a stern tone, "I was request by the Mistress herself to bring her back. Best not to disappoint her."
Knuckles spoke in a threatening tone, as if testing the Commander. Scourge was quiet a moment, staring at Knuckles through the thick blanket of darkness that hung before us. He exhaled discontentedly through his nose.
"I shall see you another time, Miss Rose." My legs were unable to support me. I was thankful that he came to my side. I was disappointed his face was nearly completely masked by the darkness. I just wanted to see if he still had the glaze of passion over his eyes, to reassure myself I wasn't the only one feeling it.
He took my hand in his, "until then, I wish you the sweetest of dreams."
He placed a soft kiss on my knuckles. A beam of moonlight reflected off his eyes a silvery glow. Briefly I was the sleepy passion in his expression. Then, like a breeze in the night, he slipped into the darkness, leaving me weak and yearning for the emotion he brought.
"Come on, Amy," Knuckles said, his tone flat but soft.
I stood up but felt unstable in my own body. I felt tiny jitters all over my skin, my mind still fogged over with daydreams. I silently followed Knuckles into the hallway away from the kitchen.
"What were you thinking," he said in a urgent whisper, "actually, let me rephrase that. What were you doing?"
I was thankful for the darkness that concealed the color on my face, "I missed dinner and he generously made me a sandwich."
I could feel the intensity in Knuckles' stare on the side of my face. I could easily imagine his incredulous look.
"That's the story you're going to tell me," he whispered skeptically, "after what I just saw. Dammit, Amy, his hands were on your neck."
I could hear the harsh rasp in his voice as he tried to express his disapproval in his forced whisper. I could imagine in any other situation he would be yelling at me. Either way, I felt the shame of disappointing my dearest friend.
Knuckles answered my guilty silence, "if it wasn't to your accord, don't be afraid to tell me. I swear I'll strangle the life out of him-"
"No!" I interjected a little to loudly, stopping in my tracks. "He was only trying to help. I've been...I've been having some intense nightmares for the past couple nights. I've hardly gotten sleep."
He still wasn't convinced, "and touching your neck was going to prevent that?"
"It was relaxing me," I gave him a stern look even though I was not sure he could see it, "I've been anxious and I think it's a result of anxiety."
Knuckles scoffed, turning away from me and continuing walking.
I walked fast to catch up with him, "you don't believe me?"
"I believe you have nightmares and anxiety -hell I don't blame you for it," he said, "but I don't think he was doing that to relax you. I think he was doing it to get close to you."
My cheeks heated and I retaliated a little too quick, "no he's not! I'm not royal blood, he would never like me-"
"Doesn't matter what blood you are. You're female, cute, and have a nice body. Any man will go for that. Besides, I know a move when I see one."
I pursed my lips, unable to dispute the topic with him. Knuckles was practically my brother, he was biased to all issues that came my way. He was especially good with guy issues, being a guy himself. I've always valued his wisdom, but I couldn't help but wonder if his protectiveness over me was corrupting his judgement.
"Knuckles, I'm fine. No harm was done," I reassured, in hope of relaxing him.
"Which reminds me," he began walking to a nearby window, "come here into the light. Let me see your eye."
I sighed the slightest bit, tired of people wanting to inspect my bruise. I wandered over to the window and he titled my face into the moonlight. His face was mostly shadowed but I could still see the intense look on his face as he studied my bruise.
"Oh Chaos," he said breathlessly. His jaw tightened, "Shadow is going to pay-"
"No need, Knuckles. We are on good terms. It was an accident," I cut him off bluntly, "how did you even hear about my bruise?"
He applied gentle pressure around my temple and cheekbone, "Lord Linnattan felt it necessary to tell me since you and I are so close." He tilted my face down a little, "I like him," he added as an afterthought, "a little eccentric, but a good guy nonetheless."
He dropped my chin and we continued on, "yes, a good guy indeed. I realized that this morning when we were visiting the Wilders," I said.
I went on about the confrontation with the Wilders and how LL called them out on their sham and dealt with it accordingly. By the end he was smiling amusedly.
"They only got half of what they truly deserved," he said almost silently, "wish I was there to witness it."
I opened the door to my sleeping chambers and entered with Knuckles close behind me, "I actually got some of my stuff back when I was there."
I ran over to my side table and opened the wooden chest that held my belongings. I turned on the lamp to see inside the box better and gently pulled out the delicate doll.
I turned to him, caressing the doll in my hands, "remember when you made this for me?"
Knuckles approached tentatively, his eyebrows flew up, "oh."
With delicate hands he took the doll from my hands to inspect it closer. His featured noticeably softened, memories played behind his eyes at he stared at it.
"This is the doll I gave you," he said with a gentleness I hadn't heard in ages, "for your birthday."
"I kept it because it was one of the sweetest things you've done for me," I said quietly, "it means a lot to me."
With gentle movements, he reached past me and laid the doll on top of the wooden box. He stood before me, very closely, and looked me in the eyes.
"You mean a lot to me," he said adamantly, "that's why I'm trying my best to protect you."
I smiled softly, "you're my only family, Knuckles. And just like other families," I reached for his hand and took it in mine, his large hand dwarfing my two small hands, "we stick together."
His amethyst eyes were glazed gold from the lamp behind me, reminding me of a warm fire in a hearth. He clasped his other hand around mine, his smile melting across his face.
"If you have any troubles, come to me. Don't hesitate," he smiled a little larger, "I'll take care of them for you."
I nodded, "Got it," -my eyebrows shot up at a revelation- "Wait, where's Mistress Kiya?"
I looked around the room curiously, finding no one else was here but us. Knuckles' shoulders slouched a little bit and he slid his hands from mine. The grin sobered from his face.
"Yeah. Amy, about that," he rubbed the side of his arm nervously, "I'm sorry but I lied. I just wanted you away from him."
A spark of anger ran through me, "you lied!?" I harshly whispered.
"Amy, I see how he treats girls, I'm trying to warn you," he said sternly, "and you know I never want to lie to you. I want you to trust me as much as I trust you."
It was hard to be mad at him when he was like this. He was just trying to do what was in my best interest, even if I didn't see it that way. In fact, I should be grateful for his help. Someone needs to look out for me, and I wouldn't prefer anyone else but him.
"I understand, Knuckles," I said softly, "I trust you, I really do."
His smile was back, "Thank you," he pushed a hair out of my face, "now it's time for you to go to sleep. You've had a long day and I'm sure tomorrow is going to be just as eventful. In a good way."
The thought of sleep left a weight in my chest. A heavy fear that I would wake up again in a cool sweat on the verge of screaming. Staying up through the night sitting on the edge of my bed with my head in my hands wondering what could have grasped me in a tight hold of sleepless horror.
"Just relax, lay down, and close your eyes," Knuckles braced his hands on the side of my arms, "I wish you sweet dreams, Amy."
He placed an affectionate kiss on my forehead. Without even trying, I smiled and looked up to him like a small child. He smiled down at me pridefully, and I felt the brotherly love emanating from his smile.
"Goodnight," he whispered.
I smiled at him, "Sweet dreams to you too, Knuckles."
He lingered for a couple more moments, then slowly made his way out of the room. When he was gone, I sat on the bed and looked around the room. Empty. Shadows lurked in the corners of the room. No one was here to protect me. For a moment, I considered calling Knuckles back to come stay with me for some of the night, just so I felt comfortable. I trusted him to that extent. We've slept in the same bed before -all morals upheld, of course- but I just couldn't bring myself to call him back. He needed sleep just as badly as I did.
So I grabbed my nightgown and went to the shower, leaving the lights on as I went.
~ o - o ~
I knew I was back in a nightmare from the moment an unnatural coldness blanketed my skin. Two strong weights bore down on my arms, forcing me to approach two dark double doors. Menacingly tall, the doors towered over me. The only source of light was the two torches perched next to it, basking the thick wood in an ominous red-orange glow. I could feel in my very core the air of intimidation. I found myself kicking and pulling at my restraints but to no avail. But it was something. I had some control. At least I could fight back.
The doors creaked open and inside guards dressed in black armor lined the entryway. I was forced through the doors, approaching a man dressed in all black who had is back turned to me.
I was forced to my knees before him, it was then that I realized I was being held by two armored guards. I had to wonder if these guards were even human underneath their helmets. Their grips were freezing cold against my skin and uncompromising to my struggles.
The dark man before me turned around, his rich dark clothing twirling with him like a blanket of the night sky. I noted a smoke-like cloud cascading off him, like he was a frozen shadow. The mist pooled around his figure and branched out, ascending on me. I pushed away my fear of the mist and looked up. Dark ink-like hair fell across his face, his white muzzle held a demonic knowing smile. Hidden underneath his dark locks were two unsettling depths. One orb the color of a dying velvet rose and the other the color of clashing swords.
Alfonso.
He didn't say a word, but he didn't need to. He knew that I recognized him. Without even speaking, he knew I was aware of the evil intentions he had on the kingdom and its citizens. He gladly met my scowl with a devious raised eyebrow.
"My dear Amy." His voice was regal and echoed deeply in the room, "my dear little Chaos Guardian."
He snarled on the title, looking down at me cruelly. From the dark flap of his royal tunic, he pulled out a dagger, it's edge gleaming a fiery orange. He gazed upon it like it was a prize. A pride of his work. A solution to his problem.
"Your heart is in the wrong place," -his crimson eye reflected in the dagger- "commit yourself to me and I will show you where your heart belongs."
Anger boiled in me, a defiant breath left my lips before I could stop it.
"No."
Alfonso's eyebrow twitched, a cynical half-smile crossing his face as if amused.
"Such defiance for such a delicate rose," he stepped closer, his misty shadows ascending with him, "let's see if we can shave those thorns with the knife of enlightenment."
With the swift movement of his finger, the armored man on my right presented my arm to him. I pulled and writhed in grip, but Alfonso only gazed at me callously, watching me like he was watching an innocent rabbit trying to pry itself free from a trap.
With a practiced grace, he held the dagger and meticulously pointed it's sharp tip to my bare shoulder.
"Without darkness there cannot be light," he applied pressure, puncturing my skin. A single bead of red dripped down my arm, "without cruelty there cannot be sacrifice," he trailed down, lengthening my wound, "with choice there comes regret."
I was biting back a scream at the slow dulling pain in my arm, his eyes shot up at me, filled with intensity. His voice became a chant, "with pain there is happiness. These are delicate structures of forces. One easily thrown at the will of an iron fist."
He took the dagger and began the same wound on my other arm. My blood spread, warming my skin in the sickest way.
"As foretold in the prophecy, a force of light submitting to the will of darkness. A sacrifice for celestial balance," he finished the cut at my wrist.
I seethed in pain, watching helplessly as my crimson blood made rings around the circumference of my arms and dripped onto the ground where the mist thickened.
"The Chaos Guardian! The exchange of sacrifices! Statera omnes virtutes!" he bellowed.
I was now horrified with Alfonso. He was crazy! He was cutting me up like I was some kind of offering to the gods! He was speaking in a language I didn't know, chanting his words like in a demonic incantation, bearing my blood -was this some kind of ritual? What prophecy? What forces? I was not the Chaos Guardian. Everyone has it wrong. It's not me.
"You are destined to submit your power to me," he said.
"No! It's not me! Let me go!" I screamed, using with whatever ounce of strength I had left to pry myself free but to no avail.
Alfonso didn't respond to my antics. He pointed the bloody dagger to my heart, his eyes wild with anticipation.
"You are loyal only to the forces that created you."
The tip punctured my skin, a bead of blood dripping down my chest. A shiver crept up my spine. I couldn't breath. I didn't dare move.
The shadows that circled my knees now crept onto my body like hungry animals of prey. The mist settled onto my wounds and I watched in horror as it slipped inside my skin. It slithered under my skin, tearing through my veins. The air I breathed became thicker and thicker. My heart gradually began to clench in my chest like a fist was closing over it.
"Your loyalty," Alfonso smiled a sadistic smile, his sharp teeth glistening like an achievement, "is mine."
He thrust the dagger through my chest. My breath caught and it felt as though a huge block was forced into my chest. The shadows flooded into my chest, the burning sensation spread up through my neck and into my head. A rush of fire exploded through my head, my eyes rolled back. Then I was falling, falling into the darkness that consumed me.
I jerked awake, my skin prickling with fear. My sheets were off to one side, my back stuck uncomfortably to the mattress. With uneven breaths I stared at the dark ceiling. A rush of frustration overtook me. I sat up, swinging my legs over the side of the bed. I flipped my bedside table light on, cautiously looking around the room. I took a deep breath and hung my head in my shaking hands, tangling my weak fingers through my hair.
What was wrong with me?
My breath shook as I rubbed a hand over my face. Tears stung the back of my throat.
What did I do to deserve this?
~ o - o ~
"Drink milk. Milk will always help," Knuckles said to me one day when I was frustrated with Vita. "It has a calming quality."
Back then I thought he was silly for thinking such a thing, but he was right. Cool milk actually calmed me down. After collecting my thoughts and realizing I wouldn't be going back to sleep anytime soon, I ventured out, finding my way back to the small kitchen where Scourge had made me a sandwich. Being here in the small kitchen that was closest to the sleeping chambers led me to believe that this was only used for occasions like mine. Midnight snacks.
I reached into the small preserving cooler and pulled out a bottle of milk. I shifted through a couple cabinets until I found a cup and eventually poured myself a glass.
I leaned against the counter, my palms against the cool countertop, and downed half the glass. I finished with a refreshing sound, wiping away the access milk on my lip. A "milk mustache" as Knuckles called it.
Feeling exhaustion pulling at my eyes, I pressed the cold glass against my forehead.
You can't sleep, I told myself, your subconscious is corrupted.
I was verging on tears at the thought of snapping under the sleepless spell that had overcome me. I reveled in the darkness, hoping it would just swallow me up and I could finally sleep for eternity. Just lay out in the fresh night air and soak up the natural scents and chilling climate that made me feel alive-
"Can't sleep?"
The glass almost slipped out of my hand at the voice. I set aside my cup quickly, turning around to meet the source of the voice.
Standing in the doorway was the shaggy haired, sleepy looking blue hedgehog. At the sight of him, my heart stopped. He was shirtless with only flannel pants on, the contours of his muscles were visible even in the dim light. My first instinct was to hide myself. I knew I looked terrible. My pink hair was wavy everywhere, un-styled and wild. My short white nightgown did no favors for my figure. It was loose and a little too revealing for my taste. Worst of all, I was all natural before him -no makeup whatsoever. All I could do is stare as all these thoughts ran through my head.
He obviously wasn't expecting to find me either. The award-winning smile he had on at the feast was now replaced with a concerned expression. All the vitality had been wiped from him and I had to admit now, he seemed like more of a true person. I gathered my thoughts and pulled my messy hair over my shoulder, feeling embarrassed.
"Yeah," I said shortly, "just a nightmare."
I grabbed the glass to keep my hands busy, hoping to hide my discomfort. I leaned my weight against the table and watched him as he entered the room.
"Oh yes, those are definitely the worst," he said, his voice slightly husky from sleep. "How long have you been here? I hope not all night," he said with a weak, breathy laugh.
"Nope." I shrugged, breathing a sigh, "perhaps...ten minutes."
He nodded and silently took a seat at the small table in the center of the kitchen. I studied his troubled face.
"Why are you here?" I asked.
His eyes rose up to meet mine. He was expressionless, his true feelings impossible to read. He then looked away and leaned forward, folding his hands on the table.
"I'm just restless; I couldn't stop tossing and turning," he said flatly.
I blinked a couple times, a little surprised by his answer. Whatever intimidating force that kept me distanced from him crumbled before me. I had put Prince Sonic on this pedestal -like he was a greater being than me. A god-like figure who didn't have any emotion other than happiness. He was always Prince Sonic. A prince, and -up until this point- not a human being. But now I saw him like I would see another person in the marketplace, just a guy with every day problems like everyone else.
I leaned off the counter and stood on my own, "Stress?" I asked.
His lips puckered disapprovingly. He nodded his head, looking distant. It was obviously something he didn't want to go into.
I couldn't blame him. He took on more kingdom affairs than I could imagine. He was going to become the next king of Solstice -actually fairly soon. With his father sick and no mother for support, he was on his own, running the kingdom single-handedly.
"Well," I said, dramatically in hope of lightening the mood, "maybe a massage is an order? I mean you can get those anytime you want, right?"
His face immediately began to lighten up, a smile sliding across his lips, "Even though I know you're kidding, I feel a little pretentious for actually having that option."
I smiled, taking a seat across from him at the table, "the power of the prince," I said, taking a sip of my milk, "Commanded any weird things lately?"
He smiled wider this time, straightening himself from his slouched position to talk.
"Not especially," he said as-a-matter-of-fact. He paused for a moment, thinking, "but I do remember when I was eight I commanded a guard to be my "horse" and carry me around the castle on his back."
I laughed, "And he was okay with it!?"
Sonic shrugged, smiling a big white smile, "must have been because he made the noises and trotted and everything."
I laughed again, "that's so cute!"
He ran a hand through his messy quills, leaning back in his chair, "I think afterwards my dad bought him lunch."
"Well I would think he deserved lunch after you kicked him and ran him ragged around the castle all day," I said with a sly smile.
He returned my remark with a smirk, "Hey. I was eight. It was a little adventure. Big deal. You've probably had them too."
My smile faltered at the question. The truth of it was, I really didn't have adventures when I was a kid. I have very little freedom from the Wilder property, and other than exploring the wilderness with Knuckles, I really had no childhood.
I shrugged my shoulders defensively, "eh...not really."
His smile faded a little, "not one memory of you playing with dolls or whatever girls do?" He asked in disbelief.
I tapped my finger against the glass nervously, "My life has never been very exciting...except for this whole Chaos Guardian thing."
My voice lost it's feeling, I cast my eyes to the table to hide my shame. Chaos, he must have thought my life was so uninteresting. I was boring to him. Here he has run a kingdom with his father and I just ran around in the dirt trying to survive.
"I think we're both a little too stressed right now," -I looked up to meet his soft emerald eyes gazing at me- "I think we both need a little adventure -something to ease our minds a bit."
My lips parted a little in confusion. Did he mean right now? I looked at him earnestly, "What do you mean?"
A nervous demeanor came over him. He ruffled his dark blue quills, looking away as if searching for an answer.
"Well...do you have plans for tomorrow?"
My heart jumped in my chest, recognizing the phrase as an introduction to an invitation. I couldn't be completely sure, though. I didn't want to get too ahead of myself in expecting him to actually be asking me on a date.
I focused on my words in hope of not stuttering and embarrassing myself, "Not that I can think of, no."
He took a silent breath of courage, looking me in the eye, "Why don't you and I go for a horse back ride through the back woods? I- I mean if you're into that and you know how to ride a-and-"
I could tell he was struggling a bit so I jumped in, "Yes," my cheeks flared at the sudden realization, a warm prickling sensation rushed across my skin. "I can ride. That sounds great," I finished with a smile a bit wider than it should have been.
"Great," he said with a shy half-smile, laughing breathlessly. He got up out of his seat like sitting no longer satisfied him, "I'll -ah- see you at the stables around noon then?"
I nodded, trying to keep my composure and tame the emotions that exploded from my chest, "I'll be there."
"Wonderful," he said, his true excited emotions finally setting in. Feeling accomplished, he gained some of his confidence back, "I hope you sleep well from now on. Just think of our ride tomorrow and how much fun it will be." He looked at me with a sincere expression, "I know that's what I'll be thinking about."
I smiled at him, watching him make his way to the doorway, keeping eye contact with him, "I'm looking forward to it too."
Content with my answer, his white smile shined through the darkness, his verdant eyes glowing like a young boy's.
"Sweet dreams, Amy," he said.
"Goodnight, Sonic," I replied.
And then I was alone again, staring at the doorway where he had left. I was overwhelmed with emotions, but all I could do was stare in disbelief.
I wasn't going to be sleeping tonight, unfortunately. The excitement and nervousness of spending time with the handsome Sonic the Hedgehog would keep me energized for days.
Prince Sonic just asked me to spend time with him. I thought to myself, smiling uncontrollably into the darkness. Is this a date? Is it too soon to tell?
I fell back into my chair, a sense of euphoria and nervousness mixing in me.
Dear Chaos if anything is going to work out in my life, I hope it's this.
~ o ~
I did it! :D
Amy is getting attention from Sonic AND Scourge?! :O I sense a juicy love triangle coming on...
Knuckles is so brotherly I just want to bear hug him! XD
Another creepy nightmare...about Alfonso!? And what's all this talk about prophecies and sacrifices!? And what does loyalty have to do with it? .-.
Ahhh the mysteries will continue. ;) My next update may be a little longer than normal (I hope this giant chapter makes up for it) but it will be released within 2 - 3 months. The exact date will be on my profile! I hope you all enjoyed! Please leave a review and favorites are always appreciated! Having your support means so much to me!
Blitz is out, peace! :D